JST Ports & Logistics Group in RFS Works deal

A port handling and distribution firm has expanded with a takeover.

JST Ports & Logistics Group has bought RFS Works.

Officials say the deal has created a “leading, independent UK ports and rail logistics specialist”.

They add the new entity, which has more than 200 staff and combined revenues in excess of £40 million, “presents a unique opportunity for modal shift” towards net-zero.  

JST – through its Ayr-based primary operating entity JST Services (Scotland), provides bulks and general cargo support across areas including aggregates, timber, steel and alternative fuels, with Harlow’s RFS known for construction material handling services, earthworks and heavy mobile equipment support.

JST was advised on its takeover deal by Newcastle-based RG Corporate Finance.

Partner Carl Swansbury, who led a team that included corporate finance director Alex Simpson and corporate finance manager Sam Shield, said: “Having advised on the original management buy-in of JST in 2020, it’s great to see the business grow further.

“We look forward to working with the enlarged group and seeing the business go from strength-to-strength over the years to come.”

JST received legal advice from Gateley, with financial due diligence provided by Azets.

RFS became part of Aggregate Industries UK in 2007 through a wider Foster Yeoman acquisition. 

It changed its name to RFS Works in 2017 as part of a joint venture company between Aggregate Industries UK and GRS Roadstone.

The latter companies received legal advice on the takeover deal from Addleshaw Goddard.

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