The start of this is putting the Unipart name back at the forefront of all of its operations, said the statement.

The Unipart brand was established in 1985. It has expanded into new areas, diversifying its client base from one company in one sector to a range of world-class clients in sectors such as retail, IT, automotive, rail, leisure, aerospace and marine. Mark Dowland Marine joined the Unipart Group in 1997.

Unipart says its logistics expertise and technical innovation have delivered industryleading levels of product availability and service, pointing out the company was the first to introduce a dedicated, fully transactional business to business website in 1998.

The statement said the change of identity is being driven by Unipart's aim to reach its new brand vision through all its group companies by becoming "The Ultimate Logistics Partner".

"We are keen to make the change to Unipart Marine as our new identity and trading name, especially as it reinforces the commitment Unipart has in the marine business, " said Mark Dowland. "It is great that they trust us with using their name and recognised brand and shows the confidence they have in us."

The sales office and field sales team remain unchanged and will continue to operate out of Wareham.