A Speke-based aviation and logistics company is preparing for further expansion after entering international markets and receiving guidance from local council services.
Wynne Aviation, headquartered at Liverpool John Lennon Airport, began as a small haulage business founded by David Hughes. Over time, it has grown into a multi-service logistics operation.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, leadership passed to David’s son Tom Hughes and his cousin Mark Hughes. Tom described a pivotal moment in the company’s development: “We’d got to a point in the business where we were at a crossroads.
“We’d always gone wherever the work flowed, but it was time to decide what we really wanted to be. I knew the answer deep down, but we needed help to turn ideas into a plan.”
The firm shifted focus to international markets, pursuing long-term growth with support from Liverpool City Council’s Business Support Service. This initiative is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund via the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.
Advisors Mark Butchard, specialising in business strategy, and Phil Davies, focusing on sales and marketing, guided Wynne Aviation through a process to redefine its direction. Instead of a conventional corporate plan, the business adopted a flexible strategy to retain agility while creating clear structure and purpose.
Hughes noted: “They made me step back and work on the business instead of in it. We clarified who we are, what we stand for and where we’re going.”
Cllr Nick Small, Cabinet Member for Growth and Economy at Liverpool City Council, said: “Wynne Aviation is a brilliant example of how local businesses can benefit from tailored support. Liverpool has a proud history of enterprise and innovation, and it’s fantastic to see a family business with deep roots in our city now reaching global markets.
“The Business Support Service exists to help more local firms do exactly that – to think strategically, grow sustainably, and showcase Liverpool on the world stage.”
