French abnormal load transport specialist Groupe Capelle has acquired Bristol-based Kings Heavy Haulage, in a move aimed at strengthening its presence in the UK.
Groupe Capelle, which has its headquarters in Vezenobres, southern France, already has a base in Chester. The company has specialised in transporting abnormal loads for more than 75 years.
Family firm Kings Heavy Haulage, which was launched in 1969, has 49 employees and operates a fleet of 23 tractor units, up to 170 tonnes, including low loaders, semi-low loaders, flatbeds and extendable trailers.
The company specialises in abnormal load transport, military logistics, the transport of dangerous goods (ADR), and Section 5 licensed sensitive goods, including military equipment, weapons, explosives and armoured vehicles. It is an approved supplier to the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD).
Kings has supplied a range of major projects including the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station, HS2, the Severn Bridge cable inspections, as well as transporting sections for the Airbus A400M wings.
The company holds a range of accreditations including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, FORS Silver, Safe Contractor and Cyber Essentials.
Announcing the deal, Capelle, which has 47 sites in eight countries, said the acquisition aims to strengthen its abnormal load transport offer, especially in the aerospace and defence sectors.
Jean-Daniel Capelle, Groupe Capelle chairman of the management board, said, “The arrival of Kings Heavy Haulage in our group represents far more than a simple geographical expansion.
“It is the alliance of two companies, united by the same passion for the oversized and the same commitment to quality in the service of our clients.”
