To commemorate the milestone of Chris Porter’s planned retirement at the end of the year, we reflect on his remarkable journey as one of our industry’s most cherished figures. After decades of dedicated service and commitment, Chris will retire from his role as Business Development Manager. However, as he said, this is A farewell but not goodbye!. Chris will continue to contribute by helping shape the monthly newsletter for Kukla and is likely to be present at the annual London Wine Fair.
In our December 2024 newsletter, we celebrate his professional achievements and his profound impact on colleagues and clients. Through heartfelt testimonials and a nostalgic look back at his career, we aim to capture a small part of Chris’s legacy and the indelible mark he leaves on all of us. Below, we share a collection of memories and expressions of appreciation from those who have had the privilege to work alongside him.
Steve Wood, Managing Director, Kukla UK
“Reflecting on another successful year, I’d like to acknowledge the incredible contribution of our teams, both at our Head Office at Mountnessing and KCD, Customs Division in Folkestone. The sum of all parts makes for a formidable and progressive player within the BWS logistics sector, leaving us well set for 2025 and beyond.
Equally worthy of mention are our overseas partners’ supporting producers and coordinating locally with Shipping Lines and Operators, all of which play a critical role in our end-to-end service offering.
I’d also like to pay tribute to our friend and colleague Chris Porter, who will be retiring at the end of the year.
Having joined us during the Autumn of 2019, Chris’ contribution to the Kukla journey has been immense, but our relationship goes back much further, to 1992 when Tom Yusef, Ferry Freighting, acquired Chris’ father’s company, Porter & Laker.
Fair to say that Chris and I immediately clicked, dovetailing well, and, as part of the new Ferry Freighting setup, contributed to the company’s continued growth trajectory.
In 1997, this success crystallized further with the coming together of Ferry Freighting (an EU beverage specialist) and New World player JF Hillebrand. Again, as part of the team, Chris and I played our part in positioning FFG Hillebrand as a key service provider to the beverage industry.
Across the sector, all that knew and did business with Chris will attest to his professionalism and passion, mixed with relentless positivity and humor, a genuine top bloke.
Chris, very best wishes for your retirement. It’s been a pleasure, and whilst you step back, we know we can ‘pick up the phone’.”
Lynda Simms, Commercial Director, Kukla UK
“I first met Chris Porter when I started at FFG Hillebrand back in 1999, stepping into the professional world as a young office junior. At the time, Chris was managing the Porter & Laker division within the company. From the very start, I recognised Chris as a vibrant and “young at heart” gentleman, and we quickly bonded over our shared love of ’90s indie and Britpop music—a connection that always brought a touch of joy to our working relationship.
As my career developed, Chris became more than just a colleague; he was a fantastic mentor, full of experience and knowledge, and always willing to share insights that not only made the job easier but also a great deal more enjoyable. His approachable personality and positive energy were truly infectious, and he had a unique way of making even the most challenging tasks feel manageable.
When the opportunity arose in late 2019 for Chris to join the Kukla team, the decision was an absolute no-brainer. Knowing his personality, business ethos, and the immense respect he commanded within the industry, it was clear he would be a perfect fit. Since joining us, Chris has been an integral part of our team, bringing his wealth of experience and unwavering customer focus to help drive the exponential growth of our business over the past few years.
As Chris embarks on his well-deserved retirement, there’s no denying that he will be massively missed by both colleagues and clients alike. However, his legacy of positivity, customer-focused excellence, and his ever-youthful spirit will undoubtedly live on within our team.
Thank you, Chris, for everything you’ve contributed over the years—here’s wishing you all the best in this next exciting chapter of life!”
Tom Yusef, Chairman at JF Hillebrand
“I have had the pleasure of knowing Christopher both as a colleague and a friend for almost 40 years and regard him as one of the most notable figures in the trade. Christopher has been a great ambassador for all the companies he has represented and a unique link between the logistics sector and the wine trade. From my part, very best wishes, Chris!”