H&M Distribution buys Orion Express Services

Palletways member H&M Distribution has purchased Warrington-based Orion Express Services for an undisclosed sum.

The acquisition of Orion Express comes 15 months after H&M Distribution acquired general haulier Hunt Brothers' transport division in November 2016.

H&M Distribution, which has depots in Warrington, St Neots, Gloucester and Birmingham, said the purchase of fellow Palletways member Orion Express Services, is expected to boost pallet movements at the firm’s north west depot by 12%.

H&M Distribution added that it has “significantly” increased its commercial team to cope with the extra demand.

Steve Thorpe, regional director at H&M Distribution, said: “It’s an exciting time for us as two great businesses have come together. Since our launch in 2007, we’ve developed a loyal customer base that we’re immensely proud of.

“When the opportunity arose to acquire Orion Express, we saw it as a chance to provide their customers with a first-class service synonymous with H&M, expand our coverage in the Palletways network and secure new business.”

H&M Distribution has O-licence authorisation for up to 64 trucks and 57 trailers.

In its latest results to the year ending 30 June 2016, the company saw turnover rise 19.8% to £14.9m although pre-tax profit fell 10.3% to £627,457 compared with the same period a year ago.