Bradford logistics firm targets growth in the South with acquisition

Bradford-based logistics firm Expect Distribution has expanded in the South of England with the acquisition of a Colchester-based company. Expect’s acquisition of Pallet Plus Ltd reflects an ongoing trend in the logistics sector for firms to use M&A to boost their geographic presence.

Expect Distribution, which has been operating for over 30 years, is a contract logistics firm providing services in the haulage and warehouse industries. Since an MBO in 2021, the company has grown to have annual turnover of over £50 million and a workforce in excess of 350 staff.

The acquisition of Pallet Plus, a palletised freight services provider serving the UK and Europe, takes Expect’s annual turnover to more than £60 million and is part of the firm’s strategic aim of securing continued growth in the South of England.

Expect Distribution Managing Director Matthew Kilner commented: "We are delighted to have acquired Pallet Plus, an established and highly reputable company with a great track record. This deal will support our expansion into the South of England. We expect both companies to experience sustained growth over the coming years.”

Pallet Plus, which was founded in 2005, provides national final mile distribution of palletised freight and is a member of three national pallet networks: The Pallet Network, UPN and Palletways. Expect distribution says that Pallet Plus has the opportunity to grow its customer base in the medium term and also take advantage of existing synergies within its current strong base.

Matthew Kilner added that Expect was attracted by Pallet Plus’ reputation, senior management team, operational capabilities, drivers and long-term membership of three national pallet networks. Kilner said that the businesses were a “cultural fit” and forecast a seamless integration.

Expect Distribution Operations Director Andy Taylor added: “With the purchase of Pallet Plus, we can not only significantly increase our presence in the South East with an owned operation but also bolster the proposition, by expanding the transport side of the business and introducing, in the medium term, a new warehousing offering which has been an important growth area for us in Bradford over recent years."


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