Celebrating 100 Years of T.P. Niven

A century of family, people and lasting partnerships

From humble beginnings in 1926 to the successful family business we are today — 100 years of hard work, dedication and relationships that have stood the test of time.

2026 marks a truly significant milestone for T.P. Niven — 100 years in business.

To celebrate this remarkable achievement, we brought together 260 employees, customers, suppliers, friends and supporters of the business for a special Centenary Dinner at Easterbrook Hall on 4th July.

The evening was an opportunity to reflect on a century of history and recognise the many people who have contributed to the journey of T.P. Niven. From the generations of the Niven family who have led the business, to the dedicated employees, loyal customers and trusted suppliers who have supported us along the way, our centenary is a celebration of everyone who has helped shape the company we are today.

Celebrating Long Service

As part of our Centenary Dinner celebrations, our current Managing Director, Jim Niven, had the honour of presenting a number of Long Service Awards to employees who have collectively dedicated more than 237 years of service to T.P. Niven.

Long service is something we are incredibly proud of as a family business. Many of our employees have spent the majority of their working lives with T.P. Niven, developing their careers, taking on new responsibilities and playing an important part in the continued success of the company.

We were delighted to recognise the following individuals for their outstanding commitment and loyalty:

Alistair Malcolm – 48 Years’ Service

Alistair joined T.P. Niven straight from school, initially working as a shunter at Stelrad, where he was responsible for roping and sheeting trailers carrying radiators.

After 12 years on the road, Alistair moved into traffic management, where he spent the next 36 years building his career. Today, he holds the position of Senior Transport Manager.

Willie Wilson – 39 Years’ Service

Willie has dedicated 39 years to T.P. Niven, spending his career as a long-distance driver and working across a wide range of vehicles and operations.

His experience, reliability and commitment have made him a highly valued member of the T.P. Niven team.

Duncan McFegan – 33 Years’ Service

Duncan joined the company as an apprentice mechanic, beginning his career in the workshop before progressing through the business.

Today, after 33 years with T.P. Niven, Duncan is our Fleet Manager, continuing to play a key role in keeping our fleet operating safely and efficiently.

John Whitelaw – 33 Years’ Service

John started his career with T.P. Niven as a shunter at Stelrad before moving into milk collection tanker operations.

After 33 years with the business, John is now our Milk Contracts Manager, bringing decades of experience and knowledge to the role.

Gillian McFegan – 30 Years’ Service

Gillian began her T.P. Niven career as an office junior and has progressed throughout her 30 years with the business to become Office Manager at our Palnackie Depot.

And, in true T.P. Niven fashion, there is even a family story behind Gillian’s long service — Gillian and Duncan met through what could affectionately be called the T.P. Niven dating agency!

Lesley Muirhead – 32 Years’ Service

Lesley has spent 32 years with T.P. Niven, working across a variety of office-based roles at our Palnackie Depot.

Her dedication and experience over more than three decades have made her an important part of the team.

Andy Green – 32 Years’ Service

Andy joined T.P. Niven following his time with the Scottish Milk Marketing Board. Although he officially retired 15 years ago, Andy has continued to support the business as a casual driver ever since.

Now 80 years young, Andy holds the fantastic achievement of being T.P. Niven’s oldest driver.

His continued enthusiasm, commitment and willingness to remain involved with the business is a fantastic example of the value of experience — and a great reminder that age is no barrier to keeping active and doing what you enjoy.

Giving Back

Our centenary celebrations were also an opportunity to support a charity that is particularly close to our hearts.

Marie Curie was chosen as our charity for 2026, supporting people and families affected by terminal illness and providing expert care and support at the end of life.

During the Centenary Dinner, guests took part in a silent raffle, with prizes generously donated by businesses and friends of T.P. Niven.

We were incredibly proud to raise an outstanding £3,500 for Marie Curie on the evening.

A huge thank you to everyone who donated prizes, supported the raffle and helped make such an important contribution to a wonderful cause.

100 Years — And Looking Ahead