Jim Thompson: A Visionary Entrepreneur

In an impressive feat, Jim Thompson, the visionary founder and chairman of Crown Worldwide Group, has been honored with the EY Entrepreneur of the Year™ 2024 award for Hong Kong and Macau. This accolade not only highlights his exceptional business acumen but also acknowledges his significant contributions to the region's economy over the past six decades.

The Start of an Entrepreneurial Journey

Starting his entrepreneurial journey in 1965 with a mere $1,000, Jim has been a pioneer in the logistics industry, managing to build Crown into a formidable global player. His company focuses on simplifying the logistics of living, working, and business operations worldwide, and has successfully relocated millions of families and optimized corporate assets for thousands of organizations, covering everything from records to office furnishings.

Crown Worldwide Group: A Diverse Impact

Crown Worldwide Group prides itself on its diversified services and consists of five international brands and numerous local entities, including the renowned Crown Wine Cellars in Hong Kong. With a robust workforce of 3,000 employees spread across 45 countries, the company's impact is undeniably vast.

Honoring Achievements and Community Commitment

As Crown Worldwide approaches its remarkable 60th anniversary, this award not only underscores Jim’s personal achievements but also shines a light on the broader influence of his entrepreneurial spirit on both the Hong Kong and China regions. Jim's commitment to community well-being is equally commendable; he actively engages in various charitable endeavors, focusing on children's welfare, cancer research, education, and the arts. He has woven a culture of giving back into the company's mission, reinforcing the core values of social responsibility within Crown.

Acceptance Speech and Reflection

During the award acceptance at the Marriott Hotel in Guangzhou, Jim expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, 'Entrepreneurs are the backbone of the global economy, and I am grateful to EY for recognizing our contributions globally. However, no entrepreneur is a one-man band. Crown's success is owed to the incredible people in our company, not just in Hong Kong but all over the world.'

A Love for Hong Kong

Having spent most of his life in Hong Kong, Jim conveyed his deep appreciation for the opportunities this vibrant city has afforded him and for being the operational heart of Crown for over half a century. 'What makes Crown truly special is the incredible team we’ve built across 45 countries, filled with diverse energy and creativity that stems from our engagement in various cultures,' he added, looking with optimism toward the future of Hong Kong and Greater China.

Looking to the Future

Jim concluded with a reminder of the company's ongoing journey, remarking, 'This award is especially meaningful as we prepare to celebrate 60 wonderful years and continue to diversify to meet our customers' needs. It’s a moment to honor both our storied history and the ongoing spirit of innovation and determination that propels us forward. I’m proud to share this journey with our exceptional global team.'

Recognition in the Industry

At the ceremony, Jim was recognized as the Grand Winner, standing out among the top 10 entrepreneurs from various sectors, including Health Sciences, Technology, Services, and Energy Resources. His achievement not only marks a significant personal milestone but also reaffirms Crown Worldwide Group's prominence as a leader in the logistics industry.