Logistics and resilience are key as Saadé warns supply chain disruption is 'new normal'
CMA CGM chairman and CEO Rodolphe Saadé has outlined how the French shipping giant is ...
The consolidation of the UK’s overland freight network continued today when CMA CGM announced it was to buy the UK container intermodal arm of rail freight operator Freightliner.
The French carrier did not disclose terms of the acquisition, but said it hoped to complete the transaction “in early 2026, subject to the required regulatory approvals”.
The deal comprises Freightliner’s UK assets – its rail and road operations, inland terminals, as well as the Freightliner brand – while other Freightliner businesses – Heavy Haul, Rotterdam Rail Feeding, and Freightliner Poland/Germany – will remain under existing ownership.
The Freightliner group was bought from a group of UK investors in 2016 by GWI Holdings, a UK investment vehicle, from US railroad operator Genesee & Wyoming. Its UK assets also include Pentalver’s container haulage operations, which were acquired from Maersk in 2016.
“This transaction marks an exciting new chapter for Intermodal and Heavy Haul, allowing each to focus on their distinct markets under separate ownership,” said Freightliner Group CEO Tim Shoveller.
“Intermodal will become a standalone business within CMA CGM’s portfolio. Heavy Haul will continue its growth journey in the bulk materials sector under a new brand, with a clear focus on strengthening its position as a key freight operator.
“Our customers will continue to receive the same high-quality leadership and operational teams, and we have robust plans in place to ensure a smooth transition of ownership,” he added.
CMA CGM, meanwhile, has reportedly been on the hunt for acquisition opportunities in the UK since its attempt to purchase Wincanton was foiled by a higher offer from contract logistics specialist GXO.
“The acquisition of Freightliner, a leading rail freight operator, strengthens our intermodal presence in the United Kingdom, a strategic market for CMA CGM,” said chairman and CEO Rodolphe Saadé. “It enables us to connect sea, rail and road more efficiently, delivering better solutions for our customers.”
The deal follows last year’s acquisition of the UK’s largest container haulage firm, Maritime Transport, by MSC, and appears to have caught the French liner’s competitors offguard.
“Two major players that Maersk rely on are now owned by MSC and CMA; oh dear,” one Maersk insider said.
However, a CMA CGM statement attempted to downplay competitor concerns.
“Freightliner operations will remain focused on its multi-user and multi-customer approach and will be run independently with existing teams who have proven their expertise and dedication,” it said.
It also means UK rail freight providers not directly affiliated to liner operators remain DB Cargo and GB Railfreight.
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