Est. 1920
Copenhagen

Discover how
each era has shaped
who we are today

1920-1936

Christian Hansen starts the haulage business

On July 1, 1920, Christian Hansen sets out on an ambitious journey with just a single horse-drawn carriage from Brogade 9, Christianshavn. What starts as a small, local haulage business quickly begins to grow. By the mid-1920s, Christian expands his fleet to four trucks, laying the foundation for what will later become WHTS.

1920-1936

1936-1945

Expansion and Family Ownership

As Christian’s sons—Walther, Einar, Hans, and Freddy—take over the business, they rename the business Brdr. Hansens Vognmandsforretning. The company thrives, working closely with their neighbor and key client, Burmeister & Wain. (B&W)

1936-1945

1945-1955

Post-War Developments

The post-war era brings new opportunities, as B&W looks to Brdr. Hansen for international transport solutions. However, by 1945, only Walther and Hans remain in the family business. In a decisive move in 1955, the brothers split the operations: Hans focuses on the domestic side, while Walther establishes Walther Hansen International Transport, shifting the company towards export services.

1945-1955

1952-1958

Growth and Incorporation

The year 1952 marks the arrival of Lars Nilsson, a figure who will play a crucial role in the future of the company. By 1958, Walther Hansen International Transport transitions into a joint-stock company, with Walther and his wife owning 60%, and Lars Nilsson taking a 40% share, signifying a new chapter of growth and partnership.

1952-1958

1958 - 1977

Relocation and Diversification

In 1958, the company relocates to Nordre Toldbod in Copenhagen, forming International Godsterminaler og Stevedore (IGS). After Walther Hansen’s passing in 1977, his son Bjarne steps in, inheriting 60% of the business. With a workforce of 35 employees, the company continues its strong shipping focus, particularly in provisioning Danish shipping companies and expanding its wine transportation services.

1958 - 1977

1980-1983

Regional Expansion and Collaboration

As the business grows, so does its footprint. In 1980, WHTS opens a branch in Haderslev to better serve customers in Jutland. Then in 1983, a strategic partnership with Gunner Henriksen in Hedehusene leads to a major shift: the company is split into WHT Trucking and WHT Spedition.

1980-1983

1986 - 21st century

Modern Era and Specialization

The winds of change blow again in 1986 when Kim Filskov, Klaus Myhre, and Anders Søkjaer acquire 50% of WHTS Spedition. By 1989, Anders becomes the sole owner, guiding the company towards a bold new direction: specializing exclusively in wine and spirits logistics, making WHTS one of Denmark’s pioneers in this niche field. His children, Philip and Melissa, grow up in the world of transport, eventually following in their father’s footsteps.

1986 - 21st century

2020 - Present

Family Legacy

In 2020, Philip and Melissa take the reins as co-owners, preserving the company’s family legacy. Philip plays a pivotal role in sea freight and sales, while Melissa, as the managing director, ensures the smooth daily operation of the company and continues to coordinate road transport, maintaining the impeccable service that WHTS is known for. Together, they keep the company thriving, blending family tradition with professional excellence to push WHTS A/S to new heights.