Logistics provider celebrates first anniversary of French office

Birmingham-based 1813 member Simpex Express is celebrating the first anniversary of their sister company, Samphire Cargo's French office.

Simpex acquired Samphire Cargo, a customs clearance specialist in Dover, in 2019—a move that proved pivotal during Brexit.

Today, Simpex and its customs-focused sister company, Samphire Cargo, employ a combined total of 53 people.

The group remains committed to fostering a culture of staff retention and professional development, with several long-standing Simpex team members recently celebrating promotions to Director positions.

Youcef Mahmoudi, customs manager of Samphire Cargo SAS, based in France said: "It’s unbelievable that it has already been a year. I still remember the early days, dealing with administrative delays.

“Those challenges, though frustrating, made us even more determined to succeed.

“Now, we’ve built something strong that will occupy a significant place in the industry in the years to come.

“I want to thank Gary Smith-Watson, Managing Director of Samphire Cargo for his support, and the entire team for their constant encouragement. There’s still much to achieve—this is only the beginning for us."

Youcef’s journey in logistics began in 1999 as a courier. He soon transitioned to customs, working his way up from customs clerk to declarant assistant, deputy declarant, declarant, and finally customs manager—a role he held for over 20 years at his previous company.

Now, he is leading a significant growth initiative, with a management position already filled and two further declarant positions on offer.

Youcef continued: "I really enjoy working with people and look forward to growing and supporting the new team.

“Seeing people learn and evolve is extremely rewarding. Of course, like all jobs, there are challenges.

“For me, it’s the occasional frustration of wanting to work faster but being dependent on external factors beyond our control."

Gary Smith-Watson, managing director of Samphire Cargo said: "Samphire France has been the highlight of 2024, and huge credit has to go to Youcef for how he’s handled every step of its development.

“The Lesquin office has been a vital part of the group’s growth, delivering seamless customs clearance and logistics solutions on both sides of the Channel, and we’re determined to build on this throughout 2025."

Samphire France also celebrated being a finalist in the industry BIFA Awards Specialist Services category, while Simpex is shortlisted for 2025 Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce International Business award.

Samphire has also recently acquired ACT Forwarding & Logistics Limited recently.