AN INTERNATIONAL logistics company has taken over one of Hampshire’s longest-established hauliers as its boss steps down.

Meachers Global Logistics has acquired AFS Haulage.

Meachers, headquartered at Southampton’s Nursling Industrial Estate, said the deal expands its business by opening new routes to market, such as the delivery network Palletways.

It also adds AFS Haulage’s specialist vehicles, including HIAB lorry-mounted cranes and flatbeds, to its fleet.

Staff at AFS, based in Fair Oak, Southampton, are joining the Meachers team and the AFS operation is expected to come under the Meachers brand “over time”.

Andy Seagrave, previously managing director of AFS Haulage, said he chose Meachers to take over the business after he stepped down.

He said: “I’ve been searching for a long time to find someone to take over and look after the business and Meachers is the perfect fit.

“We are both solid companies with similar cultures and I have every confidence that the Meachers’ team will handle the haulage requirements of our customers expertly as it is incorporated into its main business.”

Meachers’ managing director Stuart Terris said: “We are delighted with the successful acquisition of AFS, a company we have long admired for its specialist haulage operations and excellent reputation in the South.

“This allows us to expand our international freight and transport logistics services to offer customers even more industry knowledge and expertise when providing solutions for freight forwarding, supply chain management, UK warehousing, distribution, training, transport and contract management.

“Not only will the AFS Haulage acquisition enhance our quality service, with more equipment such as flatbed, HIAB and groupage, it will also allow us to stay ahead of market demands, particularly after the pandemic.

“It’s certainly business as usual as we welcome the new employees from AFS and we look forward to working together as one team,” he added.

Meachers Global Logistics has been operating for more than 50 years. AFS Haulage has more than 25 years’ experience, serving small businesses as well as large household names.