WINNIPEG, Man. — Bison Transport has announced the acquisitions of Searcy Trucking and its distribution division, Universal Reload.

Searcy Trucking of Winnipeg was founded in 1969 and is a family-owned carrier specializing in flatdeck transportation services. Its subsidiary Universal Reload offers 12 acres of outdoor storage and 24,000 sq.-ft of indoor space, specializing in open deck freight handling logistics.

Together, they operate 72 trucks, 90 trailers and employ about 100 people. The acquisitions will continue to operate as a standalone company, Bison announced today.

Norm Blagden, director of business development for Bison Transport, has been named vice-president of Searcy Trucking, while Gerry Searcy will stay on as president and CEO.

“The acquisition of Searcy Trucking is part of our continued investment in serving the transportation needs of the North American marketplace,” said Don Streuber, president and CEO of Bison Transport. “Searcy Trucking brings a committed management team, support staff and driver base, along with significant expertise of flatdeck services. Through Bison, they will have access to the depth and support of a much larger national carrier, including our systems, IT, and administrative services.”

Gerry Searcy, president of Searcy Trucking, added: “Bison Transport has proven their ability to build a strong transportation business, staying true to their core values, and committed to their people. We look forward to being part of that culture, and gaining from the administration, systems and marketing support, while at the same time running Searcy as a distinct separate business.”

Expanding into the fladeck transportation business is the latest of Bison’s growth initiatives. In recent months, Bison has: opened a new terminal and maintenance facility in Langley, B.C., purchased a 16-acre parcel of land in Mississauga, Ont. which will house a new eastern operations centre, launched a new LTL service, rolled out a natural gas truck fleet and launched a trailer on flat car service.