Tu-max Ltd is a well-known name in the world of haulage, throughout the county and all over the UK. Since its inception in 1969 Tu-Max Ltd has grown to become one of Ayrshire's most respected hauliers. The company was founded by local businessmen Andrew McCallum and Alex McIntosh, who bought two vans and started working out of Prestwick Airport. Each of the partners already had retail businesses, one in Ayr and one in Prestwick, and as the haulage business increased first Alex's son Russell and then Andrew's son John joined the business which became a limited company in May 1972. The day to day organisation of the company falls largely to Russell and John - Russell takes care of the administration side of the business, while John organises the workshop, fleet maintenance, etc. - an arrangement which works well both for the directors and the customers. Tu-Max employs 20 people, on a full time or part time basis. Many have been with the company for several years, and all put a strong emphasis on personal attention and service, ensuring that Tu-max's many clients have a haulage contractor they can rely on. Tu-Max Mercedes panel van The company operate out of a yard approximately one acre in size with a 2,500 sq. ft garage/workshop, office accommodation and storage space. Tu-Max now has 16 vehicles ranging from small courier-type vans through to 17 tonne Curtainsiders. As has been the case since day one Prestwick Airport accounts for much of Tu-Max's business. "The Airport has had good times and bad times," says Russell McIntosh. With the increase in airfreight carried by such companies as Cargolux, Lufthansa, Air France, FedEx and the various freight agents this is definitely one of the 'good' spells, bringing increasing work for Tu-max and other local businesses