North American, Allied in Talks

A merger of two of the world’s biggest movers could be in works.

North American Van Lines confirmed having discussions with London-based NFC plc regarding a transaction involving Allied Van Lines and Pickfords Van Lines.

A spokeswoman for NAVL said the talks are in the preliminary stages and there is no assurance that they will lead to an agreement.

No further information is expected to be released before the end of August, the spokeswoman said.

NAVL is the second largest mover in North America with annual revenue of $642 million in 1997. The company, based in Fort Wayne, Ind., was spun off by Norfolk Southern Corp. to an investor group for $200 million a year ago.

Allied Van Lines of Naperville, Ill., ranked third among U.S. movers with revenue of $486 million in 1997. Pickfords is a leading mover in England.

NFC also owns Merchants Home Delivery Service and provides trucking and logistics services in North America through its Exel Logistics unit.

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