News from the fleets

GREATWIDE PARTNERS WITH TYSON FOODS
As part of a five-year agreement, Dallas-based Greatwide Logistics Services will manage the owner-operator transportation services of Tyson Foods Inc.

The agreement to manage an estimated 300 owner-operators does not affect Tyson’s private fleet of 1,000 company trucks, or its relationship with other third-party trucking companies.

Greatwide expects most owner-operators leased to Tyson to transfer to its own fold.


AVERITT ENTERS CARGO VAN SERVICE MARKET
Averitt Express is expanding its fleet with the introduction of Sprinter cargo vans in key metropolitan areas. The vans will service customers with small non-pallet freight or who lack adequate dock space, and deliver to residential areas.


MAVERICK SPECIALIZED ANNOUNCES A PAY RAISE
Maverick Specialized now offers starting pay of 37 cents to 40 cents per mile in both its student and trainee programs, and starting pay of 40 cents to 41 cents per mile for experienced drivers. The compensation package includes fuel bonuses, detention pay, referral bonus and complete medical benefits.


FIKES OPENS TERMINAL
Fikes Truck Line has opened a terminal in Birmingham, Ala. The flatbed carrier, based in Hope, Ark., already operates terminals in Arkansas, Kentucky and Texas.


AWARDS & RECOGNITION
SUNCO CARRIERS honored owner-operator Kenny Mattingly for 20 years of service.

DECKER TRUCK LINE honored four Drivers of the Month: Warren Erxlebren and Rick Lackner, November; and Dean Filmer and Dan Welsh, December.