CMA CGM Acquires Freightliner Group's UK Intermodal Logistics Business

CMA CGM Expands UK Intermodal Footprint with Freightliner Acquisition

The CMA CGM Group, a global leader in maritime and logistics solutions, has announced its agreement to acquire the intermodal logistics business of the Freightliner Group, the United Kingdom's largest maritime intermodal operator. The transaction, announced on September 22, 2025, is anticipated to conclude in early 2026, subject to the necessary regulatory approvals. This strategic move underscores CMA CGM's commitment to enhancing its intermodal capabilities and promoting sustainable transport solutions in the UK.

Scope of the Acquisition and Exclusions

The acquisition encompasses Freightliner's UK rail and road operations, its inland terminals, and the Freightliner brand itself. However, certain divisions of the Freightliner Group will remain under their current ownership. These include the Heavy Haul division, Rotterdam Rail Feeding, and Freightliner's operations in Poland and Germany. The intermodal business, headquartered in Birmingham, will operate as a standalone entity within CMA CGM's portfolio, with its existing management teams continuing to lead operations independently.

Strategic Rationale and Decarbonization Efforts

Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the CMA CGM Group, stated that the acquisition 'strengthens our intermodal presence in the United Kingdom, a strategic market for CMA CGM.' He added that it 'enables us to connect sea, rail and road more efficiently, delivering better solutions for our customers' and is 'a concrete step in expanding lower-carbon transport options, supporting both their needs and the decarbonization of global trade.' The deal aligns with CMA CGM's broader ambition to accelerate the modal shift from road to rail, recognizing rail freight as a crucial lever for reducing CO₂ emissions in supply chains.

Impact on Freightliner and the UK Logistics Sector

Tim Shoveller, Chief Executive Officer of Freightliner Group, commented that the transaction 'marks an exciting new chapter for Intermodal and Heavy Haul, allowing each to focus on their distinct markets under separate ownership.' Freightliner, which operates a fleet of over 500 trucks and 900 trailers, will continue its multi-user, multi-customer approach. CMA CGM already maintains a significant presence in the UK, employing nearly 7,200 individuals across its maritime, logistics, and inland services, including its subsidiary CEVA Logistics, acquired in 2019.