DFDS has agreed a deal to buy out Dutch multinational HSF Logistics Group - one of Europe’s leading cold chain logistics providers.
The fourth generation company operates from South Killingholme and Suffolk in the UK, with interests in the Netherlands, Germany and Poland.
It specialises in supporting meat and other food producers in the temperature-controlled sphere, employing more than 1,800 people.
The fleet includes 70 trucks and 1,500 trailers.
Torben Carlsen, chief executive of DFDS, said: “I am very excited about the acquisition of HSF Logistics Group as it significantly expands our customer offering to a wide range of food producers. It also opens the door for new growth opportunities and adds freight volumes to our ferry route network.”
The acquisition is subject to EU regulatory approval which is expected within three months, and follows the additions of Quayside, Alphatrans and Huisman Group.
Mr Carlsen said the companies will begin planning the integration while continuing their daily business operations, with it due to become part of DFDS’ Logistics business unit
Simon Frederiks, major shareholder of HSF Logistics Group, said: “As part of the family that founded HSF Logistics nearly one hundred years ago in 1923, I am very happy to now become part of the DFDS family. Together, we can grow the business for the benefit of our many long-standing customers and our many loyal, dedicated employees.”
Conversations started in 2018, but Brexit and then Covid brought a break in proceedings.
