Scan Global Logistics (SGL), the Danish freight forwarding giant, has announced the successful acquisition of Blu Logistics Brasil Transportes Internacionais LTDA, marking a significant expansion in Latin America. This strategic move, finalised after receiving approval from Brazilian Competition Authorities, underscores SGL’s commitment to bolstering its footprint in the region.
Founded in 2013 and headquartered in São Paulo, Blu Logistics Brasil has grown rapidly, achieving revenues of B$570 million in the past year. The company operates with over 200 employees across eight offices, offering a comprehensive range of services including air and ocean freight, customs clearance, trucking, and cabotage. Blu has demonstrated impressive growth, with reported growth rates of 27% and 47% in the last two years alone.
Allan Melgaard, SGL’s global chief executive, emphasised the strategic importance of this acquisition: “Growing our presence in Latin America has been a priority for us for a while, and we are excited to add Brazil to our growing footprint through the acquisition of Blu. The company’s operational platform will help pave the way for SGL to establish a strategic presence in Brazil and expand our global reach, benefiting our valued customers.”
Melgaard highlighted that Blu Logistics’ deep industry expertise and local insights will significantly enhance SGL’s network in Latin America. He expressed confidence that this acquisition will not only support the scaling of SGL’s business but also strengthen its service offerings to both new and existing customers.
Gabriel Carvalho, the chief executive of Blu Logistics Brasil, welcomed the integration with SGL, noting the alignment in their customer-centric and solution-driven approaches. Carvalho assured clients that Blu would continue to deliver the personalised service they are accustomed to while also focusing on expanding their market presence in Brazil and developing additional trade routes, particularly with Europe and North America.
SGL’s expansion strategy in South America has been robust, with recent activities including market entries, expansions, and acquisitions in Argentina, Colombia, Chile, Peru, and Mexico. Jörn Schmersahl, SGL’s chief executive for Latin America, highlighted the region’s potential for growth, particularly due to its trade agreements with North America and its strong links with Asia and Europe. “By expanding our regional network and expertise, we offer improved opportunities to our customers with comprehensive transport solutions that fit their needs – within the region and beyond,” Schmersahl stated.
The acquisition of Blu Logistics Brasil aligns with SGL’s broader global expansion strategy, which has recently seen the opening of new offices in Saudi Arabia and the acquisition of Italian freight forwarder Foppiani Shipping & Logistics. SGL has indicated a shift in its acquisition strategy towards enhancing its presence in key existing markets, with a focus on targeted M&A activities to cover essential global markets.
SGL’s aggressive expansion strategy positions it as a leading player in the logistics industry, with significant opportunities for further consolidation and growth.
