Transport firm snapped up by logistics provider

A family-owned transport company, which has more than 800 employees, has been acquired by European transport and logistics provider DFDS for a debt-free price of DKK 1.2bn (about GBP142m). DFDS’s acquisition of McBurney Transport Group will expand its network in the UK and Ireland and connect services to Europe and Turkey, in which it operates.  McBurney Transport Group is based in Northern Ireland and serves high-street retailers, supermarkets and food producers with temperature-controlled and ambient warehouses and multiple strategically located depots in the UK and Ireland. 

The group operates a fleet of around 400 trucks and 1,360 trailers, including 955 refrigerated trailers. It has depots in Ballymena, Larne, Nutts Corner, Dublin and Cairnryan port as well as in the North West in Penrith, Heysham and Liverpool. Torben Carlsen, chief executive of DFDS, said: “DFDS is dedicated to serving the UK and Irish markets with reliable and efficient transport and logistics services.

With increasing importance, we connect our UK and Irish services with the rest of Europe through our extensive network.  “With the acquisition of the McBurney Transport Group, we enhance the scope of our customer offerings, particularly towards the resilient food sector.” Norman McBurney OBE, the founder of McBurney Transport Groups, said: “By becoming part of DFDS, we gain access to new development opportunities.

I am certain the wider market coverage, including access to DFDS’ extensive transport network, will benefit our many longstanding customers.  “I am confident that our many loyal and dedicated employees will be comfortable and happy after this transaction.” The acquisition is subject to regulatory approval.

Once approved, the McBurney Transport Group will integrate with DFDS cold chain UK & Ireland.