VEHICLE distribution and logistics specialists Walon has broken from its parent company in a £34 million management buyout. Led by managing director John Merry, the buyout effectively demerges the market leader from French parent company Chargeurs, which announced its intention to dispose of the subsidiary earlier this year.

Walon employs 900 people at 19 sites across the country and lists many of the major car-makers and importers plus several of the major leasing companies among its clients. The company handles more than 750,000 vehicles annually via its distribution, preparation and enhancement operations and turned over £65 million last year.

The sale includes Walon's existing subsidiary operations - Translogistix and Autotec and a 50% share in Autolink - which involves a £10 million investment in a railhead at Corby in Northamptonshire to bring cars into the UK via the Channel Tunnel in conjunction with SNCF. The company will continue to trade as Walon and retain some of its links with Chargeurs in Europe.