The owner of North American Van Lines Inc. has agreed to buy Allied Van Lines and its international affiliates, creating the world's largest moving company. But both companies are expected to retain their independence and image, according to Nashville agents. They want to remain separate. Smaller movers, meanwhile, say they will still be able to carve out their own market niche. Tenn. Ozburn-Hessey Moving Co. is the area's only North American agent.
Operators say that some details of the merger, just announced last week, are still unclear.
But they expect Allied and North American agents to continue running their businesses, while benefiting from the combination of corporate functions. Small agents say they can retain their business, as well, by focusing on smaller accounts than Allied or North American. They're going after massive moves. The individual and small accounts will want a little more attention. We can provide that.