News / OIA Global moves into Australian market with Airmark and BTi buys

OIA Global’s 2024 acquisition trend has continued with the purchase of two Australian forwarding outfits, Airmark Ocean & Air Logistics and BTi Logistics.

The deal values were undisclosed.

The company said the latest acquisitions – which follow July’s buy of Irish firm Sandford Freight – were part of a push to “broaden its footing in the Australian, New Zealand, and Singapore markets”.

CEO Jeff Barrie said: “We’re thrilled to welcome BTi Logistics and Airmark Ocean & Air Logistics to OIA Global.

“Both companies bring exceptional expertise and align with our commitment to customer service and operational excellence. These acquisitions are key to advancing our mission to deliver seamless, end-to-end supply chain solutions on a global scale.”

Together, the two firms boast some 35 years’ experience, with OIA describing them both as “recognised leaders” in the forwarding sector.

For its part, BTi will bolster OIA’s capabilities in the automotive, energy and industrial markets, and provide expertise in warehousing, distribution and end-to-end management.

While regulatory approvals are still required, BTi MD Michael Parakh said he was “confident” the deal would “drive even greater success” for the firm.

Portland-headquartered OIA Global has been on a highly selective acquisition drive for more than a decade, building its geographic network through  purchases, typically, of mid-sized fright forwarders, following investment from private equity firm LDI, taking a majority stake in 2010.