EAGLE Couriers has continued its expansion drive by acquiring a 50 per cent stake in Surrey-based Wey Group International as it looks to capitalise on increased demand for delivery services amid the boom in online shopping.

The deal is expected to help Bathgate-based Eagle win more business south of the border and to boost profitability. Director Jerry Stewart said fierce competition in the sector and fuel price volatility have put pressure on margins.

Wey provides same day and overnight deliveries in the UK and handles international shipments.

In March last year Eagle bought Paisley-based THS Couriers, which provides delayed baggage repatriation services for the airline industry and has depots stretching from Inverness to Heathrow airport.