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Manchester-based road transport companies AK Worthington and Global Logistics (UK) are to merge.

The union will create AKW Global Logistics, with the combined business operating from a newly acquired 12-acre site on Alba Way, Trafford Park.

Although the businesses will operate separately for now, the plan is to integrate them by next summer. However, the first AKW Global Logistics-branded trucks will be on the roads within weeks.

Tony Worthington, chairman of the AKW Group, AK Worthington’s parent, said: “This is an exciting time for all involved and whilst in the short term there is a lot of work to be done, I am confident that the combined businesses will be stronger than the two individual parts.”

Paul Welsh, MD of Global Logistics (UK), said: “Tony and I have known each other for many years and the timing is right for us to join forces.

“Both companies have a great reputation for delivering quality services to our clients and we will continue to invest in our people, systems and our premises to add value for all of our stakeholders.”

The merger includes Birmingham-based GL Central, which is part of Global Logistics (UK).

AK Worthington had a turnover of £11m as of the year ended 30 June 2013, according to Companies House. Its parent AKW Group, which also includes warehousing interests, had a turnover of £17.8m in the same period.

In the year ended 31 March 2014 Global Logistics (UK) had a turnover of £5.9m. However, following growth at AKW Group and a contribution from GL Central, AKW Global Logistics is expected to have turnover of £33m and to employ 400 staff.

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