Not many businesses make it to 100 years. Even fewer stay true to who they are along the way. John Werrell & Son is one of those rare companies.
Founded back in 1926, this Oxford-based haulage firm has grown from a single wagon and a big idea into a well-established, family-run transport business that’s still going strong today.
Where It All Began
The story starts with John Werrell, who stepped into the haulage trade nearly a century ago, building the business alongside his son Frank.
Like most businesses at the time, it wasn’t an easy ride. There were economic pressures, changing regulations, and plenty of uncertainty.
But they kept going.
From those early days hauling sand, gravel and stone from their own quarry, the company gradually expanded, taking on more work, more customers, and more miles.
WEKANKARRYIT A Simple Promise
At some point along the way, a slogan appeared on their vehicles:
WEKANKARRYIT.
It’s simple. Straight to the point. And it says everything.
Over time, John Werrell and Son grew beyond its early roots, transporting all kinds of goods across the UK.
The one constant? Getting the job done properly.
That’s what built their reputation, and it’s what’s kept customers coming back over the years.
A Proper Family Business
One of the things that really stands out about John Werrell and Son is how firmly it remains a family run business.
Different generations have come through the company, many starting out hands on, learning the ropes before moving into leadership roles.
That kind of continuity is rare, and it shows.
There’s a real sense of pride in the work, and a level of personal accountability that you don’t always see in larger operations.
Keeping Up With the Times
Transport today looks nothing like it did in 1926, and John Werrell and Son hasn’t stood still.
The business now runs a modern fleet of articulated vehicles and operates around the clock, providing a reliable, professional service to its customers.
They’ve also embraced technology where it makes a difference, using in cab communication and vehicle tracking to stay connected and keep customers informed every step of the way.
It’s that mix of experience and practicality that keeps them competitive.
Investing in the Road Ahead
That same mindset is why they continue to invest in their fleet and operations today.
As a customer of Fleet Witness, John Werrell and Son is taking steps to improve visibility, safety, and accountability across its vehicles, helping protect drivers and keep everything running as it should.
It’s a natural evolution for a business that’s always taken reliability seriously.
A Milestone That Means Something
Reaching 100 years isn’t just about being around for a long time.
It’s about everything behind it, the early graft, the challenges, the growth, and the people who’ve made it all happen.
John Werrell and Son has lived through huge changes in the industry and come out the other side stronger, without losing what made them successful in the first place.
And somehow, that original promise still fits perfectly:
WEKANKARRYIT.
From everyone at Fleet Witness, it’s a pleasure to work alongside a business like this, and a milestone well worth celebrating.
Here’s to the next 100 years.






