Maire Claire Reid: ‘I would never ask someone to do something I haven’t done myself’

Maire Claire Reid, managing director of TST Group and chairperson of Logistics UK Northern Ireland, emphasized her belief in leading by example during an interview with The Irish Times. She stated, “I would never ask someone to do something I haven’t done myself,” reflecting the values she brings to both her professional life and the culture of her family-owned logistics firm. TST Group, based in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, is an integrated third-party logistics company offering transport, warehousing, customs, and supply-chain solutions throughout the UK and Ireland. The company employs more than 400 individuals and maintains a fleet of over 300 trucks, 500 trailers, and approximately 140,000 square meters of warehouse space across key locations including Ballymena, Birmingham, London, and Manchester. TST serves a diverse range of clients, including manufacturers, retailers, and fast-moving consumer goods businesses, helping them streamline operations through technological innovation and personalized service. Reid recounted the origins of TST Group, which was established in 2013 by her family. From a young age, she exhibited a fascination with business, often spending time in the transport office with a yellow typewriter, eager to understand how companies functioned. The decision to launch TST was rooted in a desire to create more than just a standard logistics company, she and her family aimed to establish a business that inspired pride among its employees. One of the defining characteristics of TST Group is its integrated approach, allowing customers to rely on a single trusted partner for all their logistics needs. This model simplifies complex supply chains while maintaining agility due to the company's size. Reid stressed that the goal is not to be the largest in the industry, but rather to be an essential partner that customers could not operate without. A pivotal moment in the company’s history came with the loss of Reid’s brother, John, who passed away at the age of 21. His death deeply affected the family, yet they chose to channel their grief into resilience, using his memory to inspire a lasting legacy within the company. This emotional foundation continues to influence the company’s mission and values. When discussing early entrepreneurial challenges, Reid highlighted the importance of sound decision-making. Her father advised her, “The train can’t go so far off the tracks that we can’t get it back on,” instilling in her a confidence to take calculated risks. However, she also recalled receiving poor advice to focus solely on price competition, which she rejected. Instead, TST prioritizes creating value through exceptional service rather than competing on cost. In response to the impact of Brexit, TST Group adapted by mastering the complexities of the new customs landscape, enabling the company to facilitate international trade seamlessly. This capability allows TST to handle shipments from distant locations such as China with the same ease as domestic routes, expanding its global reach. Financial figures reveal the company’s rapid growth, with annual revenues increasing from £26.5 million in 2024 to £35 million (approximately €41 million) in 2026, representing a 32 percent increase over two years. The company also achieved an Ebitda of £4.7 million, underscoring its financial health. These achievements are attributed to the dedicated efforts of TST’s workforce, many of whom have chosen to build their careers within the organization alongside family members. Despite its expansion, TST Group retains its family-business ethos, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment. Reid’s hands-on involvement in nearly every department reinforces her leadership style and commitment to ensuring that the company remains true to its core values.