News

The storage and transport arm of UK-based Peter Black Group has been sold to logistics provider Integrated Distribution Services (IDS) as the Asian company attempts to penetrate the European market. IDS bought PB Logistics, which specialises in supply chain management and logistics services for UK retailers and retail suppliers,  for £11.5m.

PB Logistics also has offices in Hong Kong, China and India, but IDS Group MD Ben Chang says it is the UK side of the business it is particularly interested in: "This acquisition offers us an entry into Europe and the opportunity to further expand our logistics presence on a global scale," he says. "We've now successfully established a strong foothold in both the US and the UK to complement our comprehensive logistics infrastructure in Asia and provide end-to-end supply-chain solutions to customers."

PB Logistics was set up in 1987 and by the end of this year will operate 167,000m2 of warehousing space in Leicester, Sheffield, Keighley and Leeds. Its clients include Marks & Spencer and suppliers of garment and accessory items.

In a separate deal, IDS sister company Li & Fung acquired the footwear, accessories and beauty business of the Peter Black Group  Chang says this will further strengthen its European presence.

It is expected that PB Logistics will now enter into a logistics and warehousing agreement with Li & Fung for the continuing provision of existing services. Chang adds: "Building upon our entry into the UK, we will continue to identify suitable opportunities to extend our presence into Continental Europe."