On January 14, a select group met to discuss the topic of logistics M&A. Mr. Sauer from the logistics consultancy Miebach in Frankfurt presented the results of their study on M&A in the German logistics sector. A representative group of senior professionals from the industry was approached. Over 50% of them rated M&A as important or very important. Three main motives were identified: (1) gaining IT and process know-how, (2) synergies, especially for the joint use of transport capacities and infrastructures, and (3) business expansion into new regions and services. The underlying movements are: (1) drivers are becoming scarce because, for example, the German Armed Forces are failing as trainers, (2) increasing importance of scheduled services, (3) ongoing consolidation, (4) expensive peak business is attractive for providers, (5) low provider loyalty. In the course of digitalization, new providers and concepts are entering the market, for example internet platforms, which do not yet play a major role because the services offered there for free are not very attractive. The most attractive sectors are (1) discrete manufacturing, (2) chemicals and pharmaceuticals and (3) fast-moving goods. Value-added services are particularly attractive for contract logistics providers. In view of low margins, the availability of capital for M&A is a decisive criterion. With regard to the acquisition of start-ups, priority is given to providers of intelligent tags and contract logistics technologies. A very lively discussion ensued during and after the presentation, particularly about the prospects arising from the digitalization of the industry. Opinions were wide-ranging, but tended towards the view that new business models in the cargo sector will not develop as quickly as in passenger transport, with Uber being the most successful exponent.
