A significant investment from two Irish freight experts is set to enhance trading links between the region and Ireland, according to a leading logistics specialist in Merseyside.
A Merseyside logistics specialist leading a key Freeport initiative has secured a seven-figure investment aimed at expanding operations and boosting trade with Ireland. The strategic partnership involves SSO Logistics, based in St Helens, collaborating with Bolton-based Irish Freight Solutions (IFS) and Armagh-based Allied Fleet Services (AFS). This investment is seen as a pivotal step in aligning the strategic growth plans of the three firms.
Peter Draper, the CEO of SSO Logistics, emphasised the transformative potential of this investment, stating, “This investment is about taking the business to the next level. We already move freight to Ireland and by sharing our contacts and business relationships, we can expand this even further.” Draper highlighted the combined expertise of IFS in freight forwarding and AFS in customs clearance, ensuring a smoother transit of freight into Ireland.
IFS, founded in 2019 by James Wood, has quickly risen to prominence, achieving a turnover of £11m in 2023. Wood expressed his excitement about the partnership, noting the synergistic approach to customer service and the aligned visions of the companies. He remarked, “When Peter discussed the opportunity to be a part of the SSO family it was a no-brainer.”
Since its founding in 2017, AFS has established itself as a key player in Irish customs services, with an annual turnover of £4.5m. Stephen McAneney, the managing director of AFS, commented on the significance of this milestone, stating, “Upon meeting Peter and the SSO team, we were impressed by their shared cultural values and ambitious growth plans. This alignment of goals and capabilities made the partnership too good to turn down.” He added that the unique Freeport status of SSO in the North West, combined with Allied Customs Services in Ireland, will significantly reduce import costs.
Draper acknowledged the importance of due diligence in forming this partnership, stating, “One of the things which attracted James to us was our ability to send loads into Ireland – he’d done a lot of due diligence on us.” According to Draper, Stephen McAneney’s role in ensuring traceability for deliveries through Ireland is crucial, requiring a letter of authority signed at every delivery point.
The collaboration will see all three companies operating independently while working together to strengthen their positions as leading figures in customs and logistics between the region and Ireland.
The seven-figure investment represents a strategic move to enhance trade links and operational efficiency between the region and Ireland. The partnership capitalises on the combined expertise and shared growth aspirations of the involved firms, promising a robust and seamless logistics operation.