A Dorset logistics firm is heading towards a record year after acquiring a neighbouring business and investing in 12 new trailers to support its growing operations.
Verwood-based Chase Freight Ltd, which has nearly 40 years of industry experience, has significantly expanded its business following the acquisition of fellow APC Network member Transplus Ltd.
The takeover follows the retirement of Transplus director Vinny Hughes and extends Chase Freight's geographical coverage, opening up opportunities to serve more customers across the region.
The company, which now employs a growing workforce of 74 people, has also strengthened its fleet with 12 new trailers featuring dual-branded livery to highlight its partnership with the Pallet-Track network.
Chase Freight joined Pallet-Track as a shareholder member in 2007, becoming part of a nationwide network of more than 90 independent logistics and haulage businesses transporting freight across the UK.
The latest investment comes as the firm continues to expand its customer base and strengthen its position within the regional logistics sector.
Chase Freight director Glenn Edwards said: “This acquisition marks an important milestone for Chase Freight and will enable us as a business to deliver our hands-on, people-first approach to more local businesses across the region.”
He added: “As a company, our ongoing investments are guided by our values of integrity and trust and reinforce our commitment to growth while maintaining the high standards of service we’re known for.”
The expansion follows further recognition for the business, which received the Brand Ambassador award at this year's Pallet-Track Shareholder Gala.
The ceremony, held at The Belfry Hotel in Sutton Coldfield and hosted by comedian Jack Dee, recognised the company's support for fellow network members and its commitment to promoting the Pallet-Track brand.
Sponsored by PR agency R&Co Communications, the award highlighted Chase Freight's role in representing the network and maintaining strong working relationships with its partners.
Edwards said: “Our partnership with Pallet-Track has played a significant role in the growth and success of Chase Freight. We are stronger together and our dual branding reflects this.”
He said the recognition was an important achievement for the workforce, reflecting the company's focus on customer service, teamwork and continued improvement.
The company's growth and investment have also been welcomed by Pallet-Track, which praised Chase Freight's contribution to the wider network.
Pallet-Track chief executive Stuart Godman said: “We applaud Chase Freight on its continued growth and are immensely proud to have supported the business through this period of rapid expansion.”
He added: “Being a brand ambassador recognises Chase Freight as an extraordinarily strong voice for the network, highlighting what can be achieved through focus, teamwork, partnership, and shared values.”
Award sponsor R&Co Communications also congratulated the business, with managing director Peter Robinson highlighting its efforts to promote both its own services and the wider pallet network.
Robinson said: “It shows Chase Freight as a real team player and worthy winner of the brand ambassador award.”
With the acquisition completed, its fleet expanded and industry recognition secured, Chase Freight is looking to build on its recent growth as it works towards what could be a record year for the Dorset business.