Rollits advise international logistics group on acquisition of local transport company
Rollits has advised the Charles André Group, a Frenchlogistics group, on its acquisition of a majority stake in SimonGibson Transport Limited, a Goole based company specialising inbulk powder and granular product transport, handling andstorage.
GCA was founded in 1932 by Charles André to distribute petroleumproducts around the Rhone valley. Although it is still afamily owned company, GCA has since grown into one of Europe'sleading logistics providers. It is now based in Montélimar,France and operates across 15 European countries, employing over4,500 drivers in its road transport division.
Simon Gibson Transport was founded 16 years ago in North Newbaldwith a single truck by Simon Gibson who has grown the businesssignificantly over the years and extended the company's Gooleheadquarters two years ago to include a new 35,000 foot warehouse,new offices and driver training facilities. The company haseight other operating centres in the UK, including one at Sancton,and now operates across Europe with a fleet of 94 vehicles,employing over 130 staff. Simon Gibson will continue in hisrole as Managing Director of the company.
The deal sees GCA continue to expand its operations in the UKwhile enabling Simon Gibson Transport to continue its own strategyof growth and development.
The Rollits' team was led by corporate partner NasimSharf working with Kate Dixon (Corporate) and included NeilFranklin (Property), Libby Clarkson(Planning) and Ed Heppel (Employment).
Mr Sharf comments: "Simon Gibson has built up an impressivebusiness. The investment by GCA should ensure the businessgrows and develops to the next level. Exciting times lieahead."
Simon Gibson was advised by Jonathan Simms and Rachael Stockleyof Leeds law firm Clarion, with corporate finance advice beingprovided by Roger Esler and Paul Herriott of Dow SchofieldWatts.
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