A venerable trucking firm with a 65-year legacy, Escro Transport Ltd., has shuttered, marking the end of an era for a company that once specialized in hauling raw meat to supermarkets and local grocers. Founded in 1959 by the Esposito family with just a single truck, Escro established itself by delivering meat to Tops Markets and various small stores. Initially, the operation grew out of a Tonawanda terminal designed for maximum efficiency, facilitating the direct transfer of meat from refrigerated packing plants to trucks, docks, and ultimately to retailers. Donald Esposito, who has been at the helm alongside his brother Terry for decades, recalls the company’s heyday when such an operation was considered groundbreaking.
The industry landscape began to shift in the mid-1970s as meatpackers moved toward boxed product delivery directly to retail warehouses—a change that significantly impacted Escro’s operations. Adapting to the evolving market, Escro pivoted towards transporting other items, notably securing contracts with confectionery giants such as Hershey’s, Mars, and Nestle. At its zenith over 15 years ago, Escro boasted 20 trailers, more than a dozen owner-operator drivers, local drivers, and dock workers, culminating in nearly $12 million in annual sales.
However, the tide turned as direct delivery became the norm, leading to a gradual attrition of Escro’s client base and a significant drop in orders. Compounded by the financial strains of the Covid-19 pandemic, which decimated profits even with the aid of relief funds, the company found itself in an untenable position. The prolonged loss-making streak prompted the difficult decision to cease operations.
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The Esposito brothers now face the challenge of liquidating the company’s assets, particularly the 4.65-acre trucking terminal in Tonawanda. Equipped with a 17,985-square-foot industrial cold-storage building, the property was envisioned as a key asset. Despite being situated in an Opportunity Zone and possessing considerable potential, the presence of an underground storage tank has complicated the sale process. Efforts to attract buyers through open houses and an auction were met with limited interest, leading to the decision to list the property through a real estate service.
As the industry continues to evolve with shifting logistics and distribution strategies, the tale of Escro Transport serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by traditional transportation companies. The Esposito brothers’ journey—a narrative of adaptation, resilience, and the harsh realities of economic forces—encapsulates the end of an era for a family-owned business deeply rooted in the fabric of its community.
