Bibby says Atchison Topeka acquisition is not the last
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By Christopher Walton BIBBY DISTRIBUTION says it is still on the look out for acquisition targets after it bought West Country-based food distributor Atchison Topeka for an undisclosed sum.
Speaking to CM, chief executive Ian Speak says Bibby, which bought Taygroup, TM Logistics and two contract formerly held by MRS Distribution last year, has plans for more growth.
“We should be able to provide details regarding some substantial business wins over the next few weeks,” hints Speak, insisting the irm has its eye on organic growth. “We are still in the market to buy, but only on a selective basis.” Atchison Topeka is part of Gullivers Transport, which also includes Atchison Topeka Transport and Atchison Topeka (Warehousing).
All 170 employees at its tankers, pallet, warehousing and repackaging arms will be retained. The deal will add £26m to Bibby’s turnover. It operates from two depots; Worcester and Droitwich holding combined O-licences for 127 vehicles and 197 trailers. The acquisition includes two warehousing facilities with a combined storage space of 150,000ft2.
Speak adds: “Culturally, it’s a good it. What they do complements what we do and viceversa. There is an opportunity to create, and add value to both organisations’ customer bases.” Bibby intends to run the business separately retaining the Atchison Topeka brand name and livery. MD Mike Philips and operations director Darren Cronshaw will remain with the business.
● Gregory Distribution has expanded into Wales with the purchase of refrigerated transport business Dylan Thomas International for an undisclosed sum. The Fishguard-based business, which is licensed for ive vehicles and ive trailers, delivers potato products for Pufin Produce and poultry on behalf of Capestone Organic Poultry. Seven Dylan Thomas employees have transferred as part of the deal and boss Dylan also remains within the enlarged business as transport manager.