Couple in the driving seat at freight firm after management buyout
A HUSBAND and wife team has bought the Derbyshire delivery firm where they were both employees.
George and Claire Hewitt have completed a management buyout of Hastings Freight Limited (HFL).
They acquired the shareholding and now own 100 per cent of the company on High Hazels Rd, Barlborough, Chesterfield, when the existing owners retired after many years of dedicated service.
Claire said: “George and I are passionate about transport and supporting local independent businesses, as well as larger companies, with their transport needs.
“HFL is a steadfast company whose relationships with customers are built upon reliability and communication, and we don’t plan on changing what works.
“Our employees are the key to this and are what make the business what it is. We were keen to make the
MBO [management buyout] happen to ensure that employees are valued for who they are and what they contribute, and we’re delighted to have reached a successful conclusion with the sale.”
Both were employees of HFL prior to the MBO. George has been with the firm for nearly 15 years, most recently as its general manager, while Claire joined the operations team five years ago and became the business development manager 18 months ago.
George added: “There’s no significant or material change to the running of the business and we’ll continue to provide the same quality and service levels going forward.
“We thank our valued employees and customers for their support during this process, against the backdrop that the challenges recent months have brought.
“Looking ahead, we’ll keep investing in our people and technology to provide even greater customer service, and to adapt to changing consumer buying patterns, whilst remaining competitive.
“We value our position within our local community and wider haulage industry and recognise our responsibility to ensure we grow the business mindfully, working with sustainable and environmentally-aware suppliers and customers.”