SJ Bargh Group snaps up RG Bassett & Sons

SJ Bargh Group has bought haulier RG Bassett & Sons for an undisclosed sum.

The deal sees the Lancaster-based specialist haulier take on Bassett’s 100 employees and an 11 acre site near Stoke-on-Trent, close to SJ Bargh’s existing sites and to the M6 and A50.

The acquisition boosts the group’s general haulage and warehousing operations and brings new driver and training services, the company said.

Bassett will continue as a standalone brand, with SJ Bargh continuing to focus on specialised logistics, including milk collection and distribution, for clients which include Arla Foods, Joseph Heler, and Müller Milk and Ingredients.

The acquisition boosts staff numbers at SJ Bargh Group to more than 500 employees across four sites in the North West and Midlands with a fleet of more than 500 vehicles and 120,000ft² of warehousing. Both companies are Palletforce members.

SJ Bargh said it was “business as usual” at both companies, with no plans for job losses or closures and a strategy in place to grow both businesses. The management team at Bassett will continue to run operations with the addition of a general manager.

Anthony Finlayson-Green, SJ Bargh Group MD said, “We made this strategic step because there is tremendous synergy between our companies and we are delighted Bassetts are joining the SJ Bargh family.

“The customers of both companies will also benefit as together we offer greater scale with a larger team, more vehicles and warehousing, and a host of complementary services.”

Claire Bassett, RG Bassett & Sons director said: “As the owner directors at Bassetts neared their chosen retirement age a decision was made, after five generations stretching back to 1897, to join the S J Bargh family.

“We are delighted, because we know there is a very bright future ahead with SJ Bargh, not least because they share our family values and complement our services.

“Laurence and I are members of our founding family and will remain within the business to ensure there is a smooth transition and continuity for our customers and employees.”