MISSISSAUGA, Ont. — Two trucking industry veterans are coming out of retirement to launch a new trucking company that will provide truckload and LTL services throughout North America.

Ken Lockett Jr. and Paul Keene plan to launch Keene & Lockett Transport on Oct. 3. They say they are returning to the industry refreshed and rejuvenated and excited about their new venture.

"Paul Keene and I are very much aware of what expectations customers will have of us in our new venture," says Ken Lockett Jr., CEO of Keene & Lockett Transport Inc. "The many customers we have had the pleasure to serve in the past can once again count on our experience and determination to provide the best service always."

Among the carrier’s services will be expedited service choices offered through its new express division Extreme Expedite Express. That division will initially target the niche markets of Ontario and Quebec, offering guaranteed early morning deliveries as well as immediate pick-up and direct drive delivery, the company says.

"More than ever, this industry has a dire need for high quality and flexible service," says Paul Keene, president of Keene & Lockett Transport. "In today’s fast paced business environment, customers need to be able to rely on a strong and dependable transportation service provider with a significant level of professionalism."