DSV to acquire DB Schenker in major logistics consolidation
In a significant consolidation among European logistics giants, Denmark’s DSV has announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire DB Schenker from Deutsche Bahn in a transaction worth EUR 14.3 billion at enterprise value. DB Schenker is a division of German rail operator Deutsche Bahn that focuses on logistics. It comprises divisions for air, land, sea freight and Contract Logistics.
The reach of the combined company will strengthen the organisation’s competitiveness and provide access to new markets in a very dynamic and competitive industry. Together, DSV and Schenker will have an expected pro forma revenue of approximately EUR 39.3?billion (based on 2023 numbers) and a combined workforce of approximately 147,000 employees in more than 90 countries.
The acquisition of Schenker will strengthen DSV's global network and capabilities. In addition to greater reach and better opportunities to serve its customers, the acquisition strengthens DSV's platform for growth and the development of a more sustainable and digital transport and logistics industry.
With this acquisition, Germany will be a key market for DSV with a substantial impact on the future organisation. Various central functions will stay in Germany, including at the Schenker location in Essen. DSV expects to grow in Germany and plans EUR 1 billion investments in Germany in the next 3-5 years. The investments will contribute to long-term growth and job creation, as well as promoting modern and attractive workplaces. It is anticipated that five years from now, the combined organisation will have more employees in Germany than Schenker and DSV have today.
A bright future together
The companies are a strong match with many similarities in business models and services, shared values and high operational standards, creating a wide range of service offerings for customers across industry verticals, and exciting career paths for employees.
DSV is committed to a smooth transition that prioritises the continuity of service excellence for all Schenker customers and with careful consideration for employees and stakeholders. DSV recognises the importance of combining the operations seamlessly and is dedicated to upholding the high standards both companies are known for.
The integration planning will be a joint effort between DSV and Schenker and the specific plans will be developed between the signing and closing of the transaction.
As part of the agreement, DSV has issued social undertakings for employees in Schenker in Germany, which apply until two years after closing. Collective agreements and individual employment conditions for German employees on the closing date will generally be retained in the two years period. DSV will apply the German principles of co-determination.
Next steps
The deal is conditional on approvals by the Supervisory Board of Deutsche Bahn and by the German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport, which are expected in the coming weeks. In addition, the acquisition is conditional on obtaining customary regulatory clearances, which are expected to be secured in Q2 2025. DSV expects to finance the transaction through a combination of equity financing of around EUR 4-5 billion and debt financing.
Until the closing of the transaction, DSV and Schenker remain two separate companies conducting business as usual.