European temperature-controlled vehicle manufacturer The Reefer Group has expanded its UK presence with the acquisition of Hull-based Paneltex Ltd. The deal adds another major brand to The Reefer Group’s portfolio, which already includes Chereau, SOR Iberica, and Aubineau. Ocado Holdings Limited has exited its shareholding in Paneltex as part of the transaction.
Paneltex, founded in 1991, will continue operating under its existing management and maintain production across its six UK sites. The company specialises in high-value temperature-controlled transport solutions, including last-mile delivery vehicles, double-deck semi-trailers tailored for the UK market, portable coldstores, and refrigerated vehicle body kits for export markets such as the United States.
The acquisition gives The Reefer Group access to more than 600 skilled employees and extensive industrial assets in the UK, enhancing its manufacturing capacity and market reach. The move supports The Reefer Group’s strategy to diversify its product range and strengthen its position across Europe’s cold chain logistics sector.
Damien Destremau, Chairman of the Reefer Group, said, “This acquisition marks another step forward in building a group that is resolutely focused on the future. After Aubineau, the arrival of Paneltex reinforces our vision: to be a trusted partner for our customers and to actively contribute to the sustainable transformation of refrigerated transport.”
With this addition, The Reefer Group continues to consolidate its role as a key player in sustainable refrigerated transport, expanding both its operational footprint and technological capabilities to meet rising demand for advanced cold chain solutions.
