LIVERPOOL-BASED logistics provider Bibby Distribution has purchased a £23m-turnover rival as it continues its aggressive growth plans.

Bibby Distribution, which reported turnover of £180m in its most recent published accounts for 2008, acquired Bedfordshire-based Taygroup.

The firm has four sites, at Wigan, Cardiff and Melksham, along with its head office in Biggleswade, which will be added to Bibby Distribution’s existing 58 sites.

Iain Speak, Bibby Distribution’s chief executive officer, said: “Taygroup is a vibrant and dynamic business with a real focus on delivering excellent service to its customers.

“The acquisition strengthens our overall service offering in a number of key areas and enables efficiencies that will enhance our ability to provide the market with flexible, competitive solutions.

“I am particularly pleased to welcome our new colleagues to Bibby Distribution and look forward to working with them to continue their success under our stewardship.” Taygroup shareholders Jon Wright and Lloyd Dennaford will remain with the business, which is to operate under the Bibby Distribution name.