EFS acquires Austin Wilkinson & Sons

Burnley-based EFS Global has acquired Atherton-based Austin Wilkinson for an undisclosed sum.

Austin Wilkinson, the latest in a string of acquisitions by the growing freight forwarding and haulage group EFS, provides haulage, freight forwarding and logistics services both in the UK and across Europe.

EFS now has 13 depots and offices across the country and operates its own UK and European road freight fleet, whilst also being able to facilitate a vast range of worldwide import and export services (including customs clearances). The group now has a turnover of £67m with a £12m gross profit and £7m EBITDA.

Mark Jones, managing director of EFS Global, said: "Austin Wilkinson is a much respected name so we are pleased to welcome them to the EFS group of companies. I’m sure it will be a positive acquisition as we continue to grow."

The corporate team at Davis Blank Furniss advised EFS Global on all aspects of the transaction including legal due diligence and transactional matters. The team was led by Sonio Singh (partner and head of the corporate department), with support from Lauren Sever, Shiva Shadi (employment partner) and Jennifer Smith (property partner). Paul Raftery and Barry Riley of Weightmans advised the sellers of Austin Wilkinson. Ben Barlow of Cowgills in Bolton and Manchester provided corporate finance support and advice.

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