Early Life and Founding of Crown Worldwide
James E. "Jim" Thompson was born on January 14, 1940, in Jersey City, New Jersey. He was raised in Bayonne, New Jersey, and later attended San Jose State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in aeronautical engineering. In 1965, with only $1,000, he established Transport Services International in Yokohama, Japan, which later became Crown Worldwide Group.
Rise to Success
Thompson recognized the need for international moving services and expanded his company to Hong Kong in 1970 and other Asia-Pacific locations. By the early 1980s, Crown Pacific, as it was then known, became the leading moving company in Asia. The company's growth continued with the establishment of offices across America, Australasia, and Europe. The company's headquarters moved to Hong Kong in 1978. Thompson became a permanent resident of Hong Kong.
Key Business Strategies
Crown Worldwide Group diversified beyond relocations, with record storage becoming a significant and profitable niche. The company saw an increase in the storage of paperwork. Thompson also expanded into art and collectibles logistics, acquiring companies to strengthen this division.
Philanthropy
Jim Thompson is involved in various charitable and community organizations. These include the Society for the Promotion of Hospice Care, The Salvation Army, Outward Bound Hong Kong, and Changing Young Lives Foundation (formerly Save the Children Hong Kong). He is also known for chairing the annual Hike for Hospice charity event. In recognition of his service, he was awarded the Gold Bauhinia Star.
