Member Article

North East transport firms merge with Barclays backing

North East transport companies Premier Transport and WB Kerr Transport have merged and invested in new premises following funding from Barclays.

Premier Transport, established in 1997, specialises in minibus, coaches and executive car hire, running a fleet of over thirty vehicles.

Merging with WB Kerr Transport, Premier is adding to its Wallsend High Street base with the purchase of new commercial premises at Oak Grove.

Samantha Paddison, Partner of Premier Transport, explained: “The business is on course for record growth and I decided the time was right to look at expansion plans to merge with a company that would bring synergy to our business, increase the fleet and provide an overall better service for our customers.

“The new site at Oak Grove, Wallsend, will provide the opportunity to increase capacity, reduce outgoings and help to secure the future of the business.”

Premier Transport, which employs 30 staff and expects to reach turnover in excess of £1.5m this year, was backed by Barclays to complete the deal.

Relationship Manager Paul Smith and Matthew Heaton Business Development Manager of Barclays worked with Nick Day of NMS Financial Ltd to put together the funding package for the deal.

Paul said: “It’s great to see a local business expanding for the future and Samantha has certainly got the knowledge and the ambition to take the business to the next level.

“Premier Transport is a fast growing business and we look forward to supporting Samantha as she innovates for the future and continues to grow her expanding customer base.”

“Barclays has been very supportive and has the capacity to understand fast growing businesses that need quick decisions and sound advice”, added Samantha.

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