B2C Europe acquired by Maersk

A.P. Moller – Maersk, a major container logistics company from Denmark, has announced its intention to acquire B2C Europe, a Dutch logistics company that’s specialized in B2C parcel services in Europe.

B2C Europe offers all kinds of logistics services, including international parcel & return services, outsourced fulfilment activities and customs clearance. During the last couple of years, the Dutch company has seen a rapid increase in demand for these services.

B2C Europe was looking for a strategic partner

To be able to continue meeting the needs of its customers, B2C Europe decided to look for a strategic partner. It has now found this in Maersk, stating they see a very strong fit between their services and Maersk’s ambitions within ecommerce.

For B2C Europe, it is a real benefit to integrate with a large partner.

“For B2C Europe, it is a real benefit to integrate with a large partner from the perspective of economies of scale and the positive outcome this will have for our customers”, the company comments in the press release.

More integrated logistics services for Maersk

For Maersk, the acquisition means it can introduce more integrated logistics services as its customers increasingly demand omni-channel and ecommerce solutions. It also enables Maersk to offer Europe-wide last mile distribution to customers through one interface and the convenience of full control and visibility on all parcel deliveries

“We are proud and look forward to playing a key part in enabling Maersk to enhance its integrated logistics value proposition. Bringing our expertise and solutions together will offer customers a unique opportunity to take control and drive flexibility into their B2C supply chains”, B2C Europe’s CEO José Vega says. “We look very much forward to the journey ahead and getting to leverage the strengths of our e-delivery business with Maersk’s customers.”

Two separate companies, for now

Although the transactions agreements have been signed, the deal is still subject to regulatory approvals, but the two companies expect to officially seal the deal later this year. Until then, Maersk and B2C Europe remain two separate companies and will conduct business as usual.