Primeline logistics continues UK expansion after completing ‘seven-figure’ purchase of Avon Freight

While the value of the acquisition has not been disclosed, the Sunday Independent understands the deal is worth a seven-figure sum. It is the first acquisition Primeline has completed in Great Britain, having acquired Global Cargo Solutions in Northern Ireland last year.

Avon Freight, based near Birmingham, recorded a pre-tax profit of over £2.8m (€3.3m) in the year to June 2024, signalling the company would have attracted a strong valuation. Turnover at the business was also over £18m, with shareholders’ funds sitting at almost £5.5m.

Tim Cummins, CEO of Primeline Group, said the deal was an important part of its growth strategy.

“The UK is a key market for many of our customers, so having a solid base there helps us serve them better and unlocks new opportunities,” he said. “We definitely see more growth potential in Great Britain, particularly where it offers synergies to our business and customers.”

Cummins said Avon’s location near Birmingham was strategic for Primeline, making the companies a “great match”. He was confident the business would grow further off the back of the deal.

Several challenges exist in the logistics market, with Cummins highlighting increasing costs of labour, energy and insurance.

Potential tariffs being introduced from the US have generated substantial uncertainty across all markets.

Primeline is keeping a close eye on the tariff changes and the long-term implications for Ireland, the UK and EU.

“The recent tariff activity hasn’t yet had a significant impact on our operations, however it’s something we’re monitoring closely,” Cummins said. “We’re in constant contact with our customers and partners as we’re determined to prepare as much as possible for any potential disruptions.

“We conduct a lot of scenario-planning sessions and we’re focused on making sure our supply chain is flexible enough to handle adjustments. We’re confident that the nature of the integrated supply chain that we’ve developed across Ireland, the UK and the EU will also help us navigate any new requirements that arise.

“Being proactive is key, and we’re confident that our scale and network put us in a good position to adapt.”

Avon, founded in 1979, has grown to become a big player in providing warehousing and transport solutions in the UK

Primeline Group, founded by Danny Geoghegan, employs a total of 1,200 people across its operations, with the company claiming it is Co Meath’s largest employer. The company’s fleet of vehicles make over 25,000 deliveries to more than 7,500 outlets around Ireland each week.

Avon, founded in 1979, has grown to become a big player in providing warehousing and transport solutions in the UK, with daily freight services into Ireland. Its customer base includes clients in industrial, retail and fast-moving consumer goods.

The English company employs more than 120 people and has three facilities in Birmingham.