ML Utilities announced that it has acquired Chattanooga, Tennessee-based Cherokee Truck Equipment, LLC.

Through this acquisition, ML Utilities has expanded its operational territory and scope of services, while doubling the size of its team.

“The acquisition of Cherokee Truck Equipment is a significant step for ML Utilities, and we’re thrilled to be adding so many talented people to our family,” said Mickey Hodges and Kent Upton, ML Utilities co-presidents. “Similar to our purchase of Utility Equipment Service (UES) last year, this is an ideal fit, as Cherokee’s culture aligns closely with ours. Their values of service and safety are deeply rooted, and we’ll continue to honor their legacy every day."

The acquisition includes the addition of Cherokee’s 20,000-square-foot facility in Chattanooga, and its 15,000-square-foot branch in Mableton, Georgia, near Atlanta. ML Utilities’ team of technician’s support fleet owners and customers throughout Maryland, North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Virginia, South Carolina, Florida, Alabama, Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio.

Established in 1981, Cherokee sells new and used truck equipment and specializes in truck upfitting packages for railroad operations. Additionally, their services include equipment diagnosis, testing, inspections, preventative maintenance, repairs, as well as a full-service web-based parts and equipment division.

“As we began to research ML Utilities, we found an organization that shared many of the values we hold dear," said Jim O’Brien, president of Cherokee Truck Equipment. "A culture of caring for our people and our customers. That means focusing on safety and quality every day, which is the ML Utilities way. I’m excited about the future as we join forces with the ML Utilities family and bring more customized solutions to our customers."