Palletline strengthens presence in key market with new acquisition

BIRMINGHAM-based logistics firm, Palletline has strengthened its business with the acquisition of a South East rival.

Palletline, which operates more than 6,000 vehicles, 12,000 staff and has access to over 5,000,000 sq ft of warehousing space, has acquired Kent-based S&S Distribution in a deal advised out of Birmingham.

The terms of the transaction, which will strengthen Palletline’s presence in the important London market, have not been disclosed.

Palletine was advised on the deal by the transaction services team at accountancy and business advisory firm, BDO; director David Billington and Olly Cutting providing acquisition due diligence.

Under the ownership of brothers David and Ken Sanderson, S&S Distribution has worked closely with Palletline for 20 years. The acquisition will enable both firms to build on the strength of an established business to offer an improved service to their customers.
 
Commenting on the deal, David Billington said: “This acquisition solidifies an already strong business relationship spanning 20 years. Palletline’s extensive national network and S&S Distribution’s knowledge of its local market means this is an excellent deal done for both parties and their customers.”
 
Palletline will retain the S&S company name and work in collaboration with the existing management team, led by Richard Ball, to develop and drive the regionally based haulage business forward.
 
Graham Leitch, managing director, Palletline, said: “S&S Distribution is a business with a proud heritage and an enviable reputation both in Kent and throughout the UK. Together with our subsidiary, Palletline London Ltd, we will be able to further strength our market position in delivering excellent service in London and the South East.

“We respect the heritage of S&S Distribution and we look forward to working closely with the business to ensure its fantastic standards of customer-driven services continue.”