Two brothers from a council estate in Garston took a leap of faith that changed their lives – and it all started with a moment that nearly cost one of them everything
Bernie and Wayne Dullaghan, founders of MCF(Image: Bernie Dullaghan)
Two brothers from a council estate in Garston have gone from humble beginnings to representing their industry in the House of Lords after building one of the UK’s fastest-growing logistics companies.
Bernie and Wayne Dullaghan founded MCF, a third-party logistics firm, just five years ago after deciding to take a leap of faith and start their own business. Since then, they’ve grown from a single warehouse to three sites, and work with major retailers such as The Range and Silver Cross.
Their rise has now been recognised nationally, with the pair invited to a prestigious networking event at the House of Lords, where just 40 standout organisations from across the warehousing and logistics sector have been selected to attend.
Bernie, 49, said: “Five years ago, me and my brother left full-time employment to set up our own third-party logistics company. Since then, we’ve gone from strength to strength.
“We’ve become one of the leading independent logistics providers and to be asked to represent the industry in the House of Lords – two lads from humble beginnings – is a bit of a feather in our bow.
“They’re not circles that local lads from Liverpool would normally mix in.”
Before starting MCF, both brothers worked in very different jobs. Wayne, 45, had experience in logistics, while Bernie was a regional manager for Mecca Bingo and Buzz Bingo.
Bernie said: “I’d never stepped foot in a warehouse until five years ago. I nearly lost my life getting knocked off a motorbike and the compensation from that went into the business.
“That was a tragic part of my life but the money from that meant we were able to take that leap of faith.”
MCF has won five major awards in the past three years, including three this year alone, and is shortlisted for two more in 2025. But it hasn’t all been plain sailing.
Bernie said: “The biggest challenge was about two years ago. We had Wilko as our biggest customer, and when they went into administration, the warehouse was half empty.
“We had to let 17 people go. That was the most challenging time.”
The brothers rebuilt the business, expanding its space and customer base. Now, they hope their story inspires others from similar backgrounds.
Bernie added: “Where we grew up, there was quite a lot of crime and negative influences all around you. But if you’ve got a vision, a dream and you believe in yourself, you can make things happen.”