P&O Nedlloyd logistics boosts global logistics operations strategic acquisition in US

In a significant move to develop its global capabilities in logistics and supply chain management, P&O Nedlloyd Logistics has acquired from “The Gilbert Companies” the combined entities of “Gilbert East”, “Gilbert West”, and “Gilbert Air Cargo”. These Gilbert companies specialize in consignment consolidation / deconsolidation, LTL trucking, warehousing, domestic air freight and store delivery throughout the United States for major retail corporations and wholesalers.
As one of the world’s premier global shipping lines and international logistics providers, P&O Nedlloyd is already well established in the field of maritime supply chain management with customers across the world. In acquiring these Gilbert Companies, P&O Nedlloyd Logistics is taking an important step in the continuing development of its logistics capabilities to meet increasing demand from global customers requiring integrated supply chain management facilities for goods sourced both internationally and domestically. The Gilbert management team will remain in place.
P&O Nedlloyd Logistics has already built a strong logistics network across both the Asia Pacific region and Europe. At the same time the company has seen substantial growth in its US business, driven by increasing involvement in the Transpacific trade.
With the acquisition of The Gilbert Companies, one of the strongest performers in the US domestic retail logistics business, P&O Nedlloyd Logistics will:
* extend its logistics presence in the US;
* secure access to the US warehousing, distribution and retail delivery sector; and
* bring its customers the integration of international supply chain and domestic delivery.
Commenting on the acquisition, P&O Nedlloyd Executive Director Barry Williams said:
“This investment means that we can now offer customers of both companies a full range of services for the supply and delivery of goods from the middle of Asia or the Indian sub-continent right through to the individual store within the US.”
Richard Gilbert, co-owner of the Gilbert companies, commented: “We believe that the sale of these assets to P&O Nedlloyd Logistics will bring significant benefits to our operations not only in an extension of services but also in terms of skills and combined technology. We are in effect putting together two companies which are best in class.”