Manchester's Speed Couriers acquired by undisclosed trade buyer
What's the deal? Speed Couriers (Northern) Ltd, a Manchester-based specialist medical and healthcare courier, has been acquired by an undisclosed trade buyer. The deal, announced in November 2026, was supported by advisory firm La Salle Corporate; terms were not disclosed.
What does the target do? Founded in 1985 by managing director Shaun Merrick and headquartered in Trafford Park, Speed Couriers runs same-day deliveries focused on the medical and healthcare sectors. Services span urgent blood transport, medical samples, supplies, records, and prescription drugs, handled by trained drivers using a partially electrified fleet.
What's the track record? Over 40 years, the business has built a base of more than 160 customers and holds ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 accreditation. It has supplied the Crown Commercial Service framework for more than eight years. In 2023, it acquired Glasgow-based Caledonian CouriersDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, extending reach across Scotland and the north of the UK.
How did the sale run? Speed Couriers' shareholders instructed La Salle Corporate to manage the process, which was confidential and drew multiple offers. "The whole La Salle team played their part in a successful process delivering multiple offers on the table," said Matt Dillon of La Salle. Squire Patton Boggs provided sell-side legal advice.
The signal: The deal fits a run of interest in specialist healthcare logistics. Recent moves include private-equity firm JLL PartnersDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →' August 2026 purchase of time-critical medical transport provider Life CouriersDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, and DHL's acquisitions of healthcare courier SDS RxDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → in 2025 and CryoPDPDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →. This transaction points to greater regional reach and service breadth rather than an industry-shaping bet.
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