Logistics operator Simarco has completed a deal to buy Staffordshire-based operator IFB for an undisclosed sum.
The move extends its operations in the Midlands and the North, and takes its annual sales to more than £35million.
Simarco founder and managing director Simon Reed described the acquisition as a “statement of intent to develop business and improve standards in the freight industry”.
Simarco began trading in 1997 and operates overland routes throughout northern and southern Europe as well as further services by sea and air outside the continent. It has its head office at Witham in Essex, as well as sites at Liverpool, Barton-under-Needwood, Bury and Wellingborough.
The acquisition of IFB takes the group’s turnover to more than £35m.
Last year Simarco’s sales rose by ten per cent. Reed said much additional business had been generated in the past six months as retail, automotive and manufacturing firms all increased exports.
And he predicted that strategic investments in personnel and equipment promised to propel turnover even higher in the years to come.
Stoke-based IFB is celebrating 30 years of handling distribution by road, sea and air from a base at a 45,000 sq ft facility.
IFB managing director Steve Shepley and financial director Ray Harrison will remain as directors. Fellow director Peter Boyd will continue to advise the board.
Shepley said IFB would retain its identity and merits as part of Simarco. “There will be no material change in the running of either business other than both will be able to draw on each other’s expertise.”
