A FREIGHT company has completed a second major expansion in as many months.

Burnley-based EFS Global, already one of the North West's largest freight and haulage groups, has now taken control of Atherton-based Austin Wilkinson for an undisclosed sum, just over a month after acquiring Manchester-based World Freight Terminal.

Austin Wilkinson provides haulage, freight forwarding and logistics services across the UK and Europe and will now do so under the Phoenix Way based Burnley company's umbrella.

EFS Global managing director Mark Jones said: "Austin Wilkinson is a much respected name so we are pleased to welcome them to the EFS group of companies.

"I’m sure it will be a positive acquisition as we continue to grow."

The Lancashire firm now has 13 depots and offices across the country and operates its own UK and European road freight fleet, with a turnover of £67 million.

This latest deal was carried out with the assistance of North West law firm Davis Blank Furniss who provided advice on legal due diligence and transactional matters.

The team was led by Sonio Singh, firm partner and head of it's corporate department, with support from Lauren Sever, Shiva Shadi, employment partner) and Jennifer Smith.

Mr Singh said: "Once again we were delighted to advise and assist the EFS Global team secure a major acquisition, as they continue to increase their sector reach across the North West and beyond."

Paul Raftery and Barry Riley of of legal firm Weightmans advised the sellers of Austin Wilkinson while Ben Barlow of Cowgills in Bolton and Manchester, provided corporate finance support and advice.

The Austin Wilkinson deal comes after a busy period for the Burnley business and follows a number of other acquisitions made by EFS in recent years including Euro SDB, CS Brunt, Bradtrans International, Horizon Distribution, Euro-Tran Despatch, JRS Traction, PDQ Specialist Courier Services, FWD Freight Services, Caistor Distribution and AFI UK Ltd.