Greater Omaha Express, the affiliated trucking company of beef supplier Greater Omaha Packing Co., is set to acquire Universe Trucking Co., an Omaha, Nebraska-based transporter that specializes in refrigerated shipping for meat businesses.
The acquisition, expected to be finalized July 15, will grow the Greater Omaha Express for-hire fleet by 20%, bolstering its ability to serve retail and food-service customers across the U.S., the company said.
“Universe Trucking Co. was a great opportunity because, like Greater Omaha Express, their values of integrity and excellence are clearly demonstrated in their quality of service,” said Henry Davis, Greater Omaha Packing's CEO. “As we look to provide the highest-quality beef, take care of our employees, and support our customers, we are excited for the future.”
Greater Omaha Express was established in 2006 to haul finished beef for Greater Omaha Packing, which boasts more than $1.8 billion in annual sales, has nearly 1,450 employees, and ships beef to more than 70 countries. In the last eight years, Greater Omaha’s truck fleet has quadrupled to more than 100 late-model tractors and 200 late-model refrigerated trailers that, on average, are less than 2 years old, the company reported.
The addition of Universe Trucking—founded by Bub Johnson in 1971—strengthens Greater Omaha’s legacy, delivering a business with a long history of low turnover rates and strong safety ratings now led by Bob and Denise Johnson and their four sons.
“At Greater Omaha Express, we strive to provide the highest quality of customer service through honesty and integrity,” said Brenton Falgione, Greater Omaha Express president. “We consider our drivers to be like family, and we strive to maintain strong relationships with our clients and drivers.
“As we acquire Universe Trucking Co., we look forward to continuing that legacy.”
