Vitran expands into Western U.S. with acquisition of Sierra West Express

TORONTO & SPARKS, Nev.– Vitran Corporation Inc. has, subject to Vitran Board of Director approval, agreed in principle to acquire the assets of Sierra West Express, Inc. (www.sweinc.com), a Nevada-based, regional less-than-truckload (LTL) freight carrier with operations in the Western U.S., including terminals and coverage in California, Nevada and Arizona.

Vitran expects this transaction, subject to Board and customary approvals, to close early in January 2006.

“The acquisition of Sierra West Express would be another critical component in Vitran’s strategy of establishing a unique, regional LTL freight transportation network that covers and serves the entire North American market,” stated Vitran President and Chief Executive Officer Rick Gaetz.

“Sierra West marks Vitran’s initial move into the Western U.S., and our plan, similar to the Company’s purchase of Chris Truck Line earlier in 2005, is to both expand and enhance Sierra West’s regional operations and subsequently cross-market LTL and logistics services in the West to our existing customers and to also offer Sierra West’s customers the opportunity to move freight to the growing number of North American regions Vitran presently serves. We look forward to working with President Mike Nelson and the Sierra West team,” he said.