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May 12, 1999 9:32 AM, EDT

First Freight Systems, Minneapolis, announced the acquisition of Chris Cartage of Eagan, Minn.

The companies will combine their operations at the Chris Cartage terminal in Eagan.

First Freight, a former division of Minneapolis-based Wmp;G Transport, provides ground transport services for air freight carriers, plus less-than-truckload and expedited trucking services in Minnesota, the Dakotas and Western Wisconsin and offers overnight service to Chicago.

Tom Gilbertson, a former executive at Quast Transfer and Overnite Transportation, joined the W&G division as chief operating officer in October 1998 and bought a controlling interest in First Freight in January.

In a telephone interview, Gilbertson said the purchase of Chris Cartage gives the company its own facility in a good location, an expanded customer base and more equipment.

The combined company will operate a fleet of about 50 power units, including 15 straight trucks and 35 tractors, and 60 trailers. Gilbertson said he expects the business to generate revenue between $8 million and $9 million a year.