CMA CGM Group reaches agreement to acquire US Lines

In a move to further its global market presence, CMA CGM Group announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire US Lines based in Santa Ana, California (USL). US Lines is the vessel sharing partner of ANL, expert of the Australian-New Zealand market, and a subsidiary of CMA CGM Group.

The two carriers currently operate with eight ships in a weekly tri-continental service. Both lines will continue to operate under their own brands, with USL managed by its existing global management team. This team, supported by a proven and dedicated group of professionals, has succeeded in building USL into a market leader.

USL is composed of 5 companies realizing, on the whole, a 2007 estimated turnover of USD 145million. The company uses chartered ships and employs 113 workers.

The acquisition of US Lines is in line with the company's aim of to reinforce its position and ANL offering. Given how US Lines and ANL complement each other, this allows a more global solution on the triangular trade connecting the US West Coast, Australia, New Zealand and Southern China.