Airways Freight Corp.*

Airways Freight Corp. of Fayetteville has established a reputation as a profitable business where people love to work. Leadership at the company is quick to point out the bond between success and staff retention.

Of its 75 employees, 25 percent have more than 10 years with the firm, and half have worked there longer than five years. The venture has grown from 3 employees when it began 25 years ago.

“In 1980, I doubt if we did $300,000,” said Ken Center, president of Airways Freight. “We’re doing nearly $44 million in revenue these days.”

Creating a home-away-from-home environment is viewed as an important component to maintaining a happy staff in the company’s 24/7 operational profile. Armed with the latest in technology, the reach of Airways Freight extends from the Ozarks around the world.

The air-freight forwarder began as an outgrowth of Caudle Freight Service, founded in 1976, and has developed into a full-service transportation firm.

The company has expanded from local service to national freight services that include movement by land, air and water — services that stretch overseas.

Providing transportation services to move trade shows from city to city is one of Airways Freight’s biggest niches. Other clientele include dance troupes, symphonies, film productions, concert tours and off-Broadway plays.

The company coordinates the movement of anatomical tissue from harvesting banks to medical schools and research centers and also serves the shipping needs of nuclear power utilities and vendors.

Its lines of business now encompass truck brokering and travel service.

“Our staff is dedicated to growing the business,” Center said. “They have a real passion for the company. Our forte is making the difficult easy.”