In a move to invest further in its supply chain and gain greater control of logistics, leading non-food wholesaler Stax Trade Centres plc has acquired PDS Logistics Ltd for an undisclosed sum..

PDS were established in 1985 and will offer Stax an additional fleet of vehicles plus a further 65,000 square footage of warehousing and fulfillment/distribution space. The company was founded by John McClelland who now plans to exit the business full time but will continue to provide ad hoc consultancy. The deal will also secure the jobs of the existing staff who will continue with their responsibilities towards the day to day management of the company. 

Historically, Stax have been a major customer of PDS’s logistics operation, which means there will be no interruptions to the service as transition will be minimal. The move will allow Stax to fully secure vertical integration of the supply chain whilst adding another feather to their cap in the form of a full distribution network that can be offered as a standalone service to help other suppliers in the sector.

The acquisition is exciting for Stax customers as it further demonstrates Stax’s unwavering dedication to the independent retailer sector. The advancement in Stax’s technological capabilities and PDS purchase presents a huge future proofing stride in Stax’s business model.

Stax Joint MD, David Hibbert commented on the deal:  “For some time we have discussed taking further control of our own distribution, so the opportunity to acquire PDS couldn’t have been more timely. PDS is a well-respected company with a long standing heritage who we have had a fantastic relationship with as a customer and we’re delighted that the existing staff] will be staying on board as they’re integral to our plans.”

Stax will assume control of PDS with immediate effect and are keen to reassure both PDS and Stax customers that there will be no disruption to their normal delivered service.