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Thomas Smith & Co. – Interview

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interview

Ramon Azzopardi, Business Development Director at Thomas Smith & Co Ltd., Malta interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at PCW

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Key Takeaways

  1. A Legacy of Logistics: Thomas Smith’s 177-Year Journey
    Founded in 1848, Thomas Smith & Co. Ltd. is one of Malta’s oldest logistics companies. Once a family-run business, it was acquired in July 2023 by PB Group, a local conglomerate seeking to expand its logistics arm. The company currently employs around 90 staff and offers a comprehensive range of logistics services, including air, sea, and road freight, e-commerce, project cargo, key account management, and marine services.
  2. Strategic Location, Regional Reach
    Leveraging Malta’s central position in the Mediterranean, Thomas Smith functions as a logistics gateway, particularly for trade with North African countries such as Libya, Algeria, and Tunisia. The company uses Malta as a strategic stepping stone to serve broader markets, offering DDU/DDP services to clients operating in challenging African territories through reliable partnerships and growing local presence.
  3. Expanding Footprint Beyond Malta
    While Malta remains the company’s headquarters, Thomas Smith is actively extending its reach. Offices have already opened in Libya, and new expansions are underway in Greece and potentially Algeria. These developments are largely customer-driven, as clients from the parent PB Group seek end-to-end logistics solutions across the Mediterranean and Africa.
  4. Comprehensive and Adaptable Freight Services
    Thomas Smith provides integrated logistics solutions tailored to Malta’s import-heavy economy. Services include specialized divisions for aerospace cargo, customs handling, and fast-growing courier and e-commerce segments. Its road freight operations rely on daily sailings from Sicily and regular connections from mainland Italy, ensuring timely and reliable delivery despite the island’s small size.
  5. Navigating Global Challenges with Local Agility
    While global uncertainties such as tariffs and geopolitical shifts impact trade, Thomas Smith remains resilient due to its small size and nimble operations. Although U.S. tariffs have limited direct effect, broader trade slowdowns are felt locally. Nonetheless, the company’s close customer relationships, historic credibility, and network affiliations (like GPLN) continue to drive trust and business continuity.