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Simpex buys Dover customs agent

[ January 21, 2020   //   ]

Express freight and fast van specialist Simpex Express has acquired Dover-based customs clearance specialist Samphire Cargo. Samphire has been Simpex’s customs agent for the past nine years.

Simpex managing director Simon Beechener commented: “Samphire has supported our express activities outside of the EU which have grown every year. Their customs knowledge and associated services are second to none with both teams having built strong relationships with each other during this time.”

“The partnership offers Simpex guaranteed customs capacity post-Brexit and they already maintain many of the same values in the way the business is run. We are not looking to make any sweeping changes, but rather to embrace the positive reputation Samphire has and to build on it.”

Samphire’s previous owners, Gary Holmes and Paul Harris will be leaving the business in the coming months while incoming managing director Gary Smith-Watson has already taken the reins.

Investments planned for the first 12 months include upgrading IT infrastructure and a new website.

Gary Smith-Watson commented: “I’m delighted to be joining Samphire at such a significant moment in its history. The whole team are extremely welcoming of the fact it was Simpex that stepped forward and we’re all excited by the opportunities this will bring.

“Brexit will create many changes in our industry and we’re working hard to make sure we’re ready to benefit from them. With AEO status recently achieved and a number of investments already in the pipeline, 2020 will be a transformational year for the company and the future looks bright.”

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