Contrans acquires Archer Trucking

WOODSTOCK, Ont. — Contrans Group today announced a significant acquisition, and it wasn’t the one everyone was expecting.

Contrans announced it has acquired dry-bulk trucking business Wilburn Archer Trucking out of Norwood, Ont. The company has provided specialized transportation services using pneumatic tanks and hopper trailers since 1994.

The acquisition represents annual revenues of about $14 million, Contrans announced.

“There are relatively few opportunities to acquire dry bulk trucking businesses in Ontario,” said Contrans’ chairman and CEO Stan Dunford. “We are pleased to add the Archer business to our existing group of bulk companies. Archer’s dry bulk business has grown through a reputation for high-quality service and responsiveness to their customers. We believe there will be operating efficiencies from having the Archer business in our group of companies. We look forward to working with the Archer customers, staff and drivers.”

Meanwhile, it’s widely expected Contrans will soon be adding the MacKinnon Transport van division to its growing portfolio. Contrans COO Greg Rumble confirmed interest in the division to ctl.ca when MacKinnon filed an NOI in late December.