Acquisition of Warrington haulier creates £95m firm for Kinaxia

Warrington-based Mark Thompson Transport has been acquired by UK haulage and warehouse company Kinaxia Logistics, creating a £95m company.

Established in 1989, Mark Thompson Transport is focused on the through-the-night logistics and supply-chain sector.

The company has seen substantial growth in recent years built on its high levels of customer focus, reliable cost effective service and use of state-of-the-art technology. It has a strong customer base including long-standing relationships with Hermes, DX, TNT and Victoria Plum.

Kinaxia Logistics was formed in 2012 with the acquisition of Bay Freight Limited. With the addition of Mark Thompson Transport, the company’s eighth acquisition, it now employs 1,050 staff with an annual turnover of £95m.

Squire Patton Boggs and La Salle Corporate advised on the sale.

Advising Mark Thompson Transport on the deal was Leeds corporate partner Richard Hunt, assisted by associate Maxine Burton. Corporate finance advice was provided by Matt Dillon from La Salle Corporate.

Hunt said: “This deal is one of a number that we have completed in the logistics sector in recent years where there has been some consolidation, including the acquisition of Palletways Group by Imperial Mobility.”

Dillon said: “Starting 30 years ago with a single van to a company with over 180 trucks, with no other shareholders supporting him, is a testament to Mark. A superb achievement.”

The legal adviser to Kinaxia Logistics was Gateley Plc.