Watkins Associated Industries does business over the road, on the ground and by the sea. Today, the company is firmly established in its nationwide long-haul niche and in its commitment to superior customer service that started more than 70 years ago. Watkins Motor Lines subsidiary is a less-than-truckload carrier that operates throughout the United States with a fleet of nearly 2,900 tractors and 10,000 trailers. In addition, Watkins owns businesses engaged in real estate development (apartment complexes and shopping centers), door and window manufacturing, and seafood processing (Tampa Maid). Bill Watkins founded the family-owned company in 1932 with a $300 pickup truck.