GREGORY Distribution in North Tawton is to expand its current operations following its purchase of a transport and distribution business with a turnover of around £7-million.

Gregory Distribution (Holdings) Ltd, the parent company of Gregory Distribution Ltd, has purchased Philson Haulage Ltd from its owners, Phil and Sonia Dickinson, for an undisclosed sum.

Philson Haulage is a southern-based transport and distribution business with a turnover of around £7-million, and employs 56 people at its base in Chichester.

It was founded in 1995 by Phil and Sonia Dickinson and has successfully developed a strong reputation for service and reliability within the fresh produce distribution sector during the past 17 years.

Mr Dickinson, who will continue to run Philson Haulage, said: 'The opportunity to become part of a larger family-owned business will provide the resources and support that are necessary for us to continue to develop the business in a dynamic and service-driven marketplace. This is good news for our staff and customers.'

The combined turnover of Gregory Distribution Holdings Ltd and Philson Haulage will be around £125-million, employing some 1,300 staff across 18 operating locations in England and Scotland.

The move is the latest in a successful history for Gregory Distribution. The business was started by Archibald John Gregory in 1919, hauling coal from the station to a local wool factory with a horse and cart. Nine months later, the horse died and was replaced by a 2.9-litre, four-cylinger Model T motor lorry, marking the beginning of the Gregory family's entry into the motor transport industry.

John Gregory, chief executive of Gregory Distribution, said: 'Acquiring Philson has allowed Gregory Distribution to expand its current operations on the south coast of England.

'Philson's transport activities complement existing Gregory temperature controlled work and therefore both operations should benefit.

'We are delighted that Phil Dickinson will continue to run the business.'