From Catering to Carriages: Andrew Globe’s Path to Transport Excellence

As we approach the end of our 25th anniversary month at INTX, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the remarkable stories and experiences that have shaped our journey. One such story is that of Andrew Globe, our Director, whose career path from owning a sandwich bar and catering business to leading a prominent transport company is nothing short of inspiring.

Andrew’s journey is a compelling narrative of adaptability and growth. Initially immersed in the world of catering, his transition into the transport sector was driven by a desire for new challenges and a passion for service excellence. His diverse experiences have not only influenced his approach to leadership but have also been instrumental in guiding INTX through significant milestones and transformations.

As we celebrate 25 years of dedication and success, we look back at how Andrew’s unique blend of skills and insights has shaped the company. From navigating early challenges to embracing innovations in transport, Andrew’s story reflects the essence of our commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.

Early Beginnings: A New Direction

Before joining INTX, Andrew was deeply entrenched in the catering industry, running a sandwich bar and a catering business for 15 years. The shift into transport was initially motivated by a desire for a new challenge and a chance to enjoy the perks of driving a high-end car. In 2004, he entered the transport business, partnering with a friend and taking on roles that included everything from driving to managing major events.

Despite a background in catering, Andrew quickly recognised the parallels between the two industries. “The essence of service remains the same,” he explains. “It’s about understanding and meeting clients’ needs, whether in food or transport.” This service-oriented mindset proved invaluable as he transitioned into the transport sector.

Navigating Challenges and Growth

In the early years, Andrew and his partner handled significant events, including the European Presidency of the EU, which provided a strong foundation for the business. However, as their visions diverged, Andrew bought out his partner in 2007, leading to a period of significant change and adaptation.

In 2008, Liverpool was named the Capital of Culture, an accolade that brought increased tourism and cultural events to the city. This designation not only elevated Liverpool’s profile but also created numerous opportunities for INTX. The city’s vibrant atmosphere and influx of visitors positioned INTX to play a vital role in the transport logistics for various high-profile events, further solidifying its reputation in the industry. During this time, INTX became the official transport partner for ACC Liverpool, allowing the company to manage transport for key conferences and events held at the venue. This partnership marked a significant milestone, enhancing INTX’s visibility and credibility within the events sector.

The economic downturn in 2009 brought new challenges, requiring tough decisions such as reducing the fleet and staff. Despite these hurdles, Andrew saw opportunities for reinvention, including adopting environmentally friendly vehicles. Although the market wasn’t ready for these changes, this period laid the groundwork for future growth.

Expanding Horizons

Following the economic challenges of 2009, Andrew set his sights on expanding INTX’s reach beyond London, aiming to establish a strong presence across the UK and Ireland. This strategic expansion was driven by a growing demand for reliable transport solutions in regions outside the capital, as well as a desire to leverage the company’s deep expertise in managing complex transport logistics for events and group travel nationwide.

Andrew’s vision was to build a comprehensive network that would not only enhance the company’s operational capabilities but also extend its services to a broader client base. This involved forging new partnerships and investing in infrastructure to support the company’s growing ambitions. The expansion was characterised by a strategic focus on integrating local knowledge with national expertise, ensuring that INTX could offer tailored solutions to diverse clients across various regions.

By the early 2010s, this approach had begun to bear fruit. INTX had firmly established itself within the inbound tourism sector, providing transport solutions for an array of clients, from international tour operators to major event organisers. Andrew’s commitment to building strong relationships and adding tangible value to client engagements became a central pillar of the company’s strategy. This dedication ensured that INTX’s services were not only seen as reliable but also as essential components of successful event logistics and group travel experiences.

Adapting to Change

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, but Andrew saw it as an opportunity to strengthen the business. The downtime allowed for significant improvements in systems, processes, and staffing.

Reflecting on this period, Andrew notes, “COVID-19 was a tough time, but it allowed us to make strategic improvements that we might not have otherwise undertaken.” The focus on enhancing systems and investing in full-time staff set the stage for a successful resurgence as the industry began to recover.

Resilience and Reflection

As INTX celebrates its 25th anniversary, Andrew shared insights into the resilience and adaptability that have characterised the company’s journey. The pandemic had a profound impact on the business, leading to a temporary reduction in team size and a revaluation of priorities. Andrew observed, “The team shrank considerably during the pandemic. At one point, it was just me and another staff member. Eventually, we rebuilt with a focus on essential roles.”

Andrew reflects on two major lessons learned during this period:

1. Embracing Change: “The pandemic made me realise that life is too short to be overly cautious. After facing the worst, I learned that it’s okay to take risks and not be paralysed by fear. This shift in perspective has allowed us to approach opportunities with renewed confidence and a ‘can-do’ attitude.”
2. The Importance of Involvement: “I discovered that I didn’t want to retire or slow down. The sense of purpose and engagement with the business was vital. Even if it meant working harder, being actively involved was fulfilling.”

The Evolution of INTX

Looking back over the past two decades, Andrew observes that while certain core philosophies have remained steadfast, the nature of INTX has undergone a remarkable transformation. “Initially, it was very much a lifestyle business,” Andrew reflects. “We designed our operations to fit around family life, focusing on creating a work-life balance that worked for everyone involved.” This early phase was characterised by a more personalised approach, where flexibility and adaptability were key to meeting the needs of both clients and employees.

However, as the business matured, INTX transitioned into a more focused and nationally oriented enterprise. “Now, we operate with a clear business strategy and a national presence,” Andrew notes. “The scale and scope of our operations have grown significantly, reflecting our ambition and the evolving demands of the transport industry.” This shift has involved adopting more structured processes, expanding the company’s reach, and developing specialised expertise to handle a broader range of transport needs across the UK and beyond.

Despite these changes, Andrew emphasises that the commitment to service excellence has been a constant thread throughout the company’s evolution. “Our dedication to providing exceptional service has never wavered,” he explains. “Whether we’re working locally or across Europe, our focus has always been on delivering quality experiences that exceed client expectations.”

Andrew underscores that while the company has embraced new opportunities and expanded its geographical footprint, the core principle remains unchanged: “It’s not about the vehicle; it’s about the service provided.” 

Navigating the Future

Looking ahead, Andrew acknowledges several key challenges and opportunities facing the transport sector:

1. Environmental Impact: “The transport industry is a significant polluter. We must find ways to reduce our environmental footprint while embracing new technologies.”
2. Technological Advancements: “From driverless cars to AI in travel recommendations, technology is rapidly evolving. We need to adapt to these changes and ensure that our services remain relevant and high-quality.”
3. Resource Management: “The post-pandemic and post-Brexit landscape has led to a shortage of vehicles and fluctuating demand. Balancing resources effectively is a continual challenge.”

Andrew also discusses the impact of family dynamics on the business. “Working with Mark and the team has been fantastic. Each new team member brings unique experiences and ideas, enriching our business. The sense of family extends beyond blood relations to the entire team.”

Celebrating Milestones

As INTX prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary, Andrew reflects on the significance of this milestone. “Surviving 25 years and continuing to grow is a tremendous achievement. It’s a testament to the resilience of the team and the strength of our service. The anniversary is not just a celebration but a recognition of our journey and achievements.”

Favourite Projects and Future Aspirations

Among Andrew’s memorable projects are high-profile events and unique experiences, such as working with Paul McCartney’s family and organising Beatles tours. These moments highlight the diverse and exciting nature of the work at INTX.

When asked about his favourite mode of transport, Andrew shares, “For personal travel, I prefer a chauffeur-driven car for its comfort and privacy. However, for larger groups, a coach is more practical, despite the challenges of long journeys.”

Andrew’s journey with INTX underscores a story of resilience, adaptability, and growth. As the company continues to navigate the evolving landscape of the transport sector, the commitment to service excellence and innovation remains at the heart of our operations.