Arriva Midlands announces acquisition of Wardle Transport

Arriva Midlands is pleased to announce its acquisition of WardleTransport, a leading provider of transport solutions in thePotteries.

With a fleet of 12 deckers, 6 coaches, 19 buses and 27minibuses, Wardle employs 105 members of staff. Core servicesinclude private hire, school buses and football bus services, aswell as a range of local bus services. Following the acquisitionwhich was completed on 6 December 2010, Wardle Transport willretain its identity to preserve the company’s successfulbrand and reputation.

Bob Hind, regional managing director for Arriva Midlands said,“This acquisition opens up a range of exciting opportunitiesfor Arriva, such as NHS and Special Needs work, and we are verymuch looking forward to working with new contractors. We wereattracted to the company by its excellent standing andreputation.”

Doug Wardle, chairman of Wardle Transport, founded the companyin 1963 and over the following 48 years carried out contracts forThe City of Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire and Cheshire CountyCouncils and the NHS, as well as delivering school meals for TheCity.

“Together, Wardle Transport and Arriva Midlands make avery good combination,” Doug said. “Both businesseswill be able to learn from each other, ensuring customers willcontinue to be served in the same dedicated way.”