French shipping and logistics giant CMA CGM has announced its plan to acquire Freightliner UK Intermodal Logistics, a deal expected to close in early 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. The acquisition marks a major step in CMA CGM’s strategy to expand its footprint in the UK and promote sustainable, multimodal transport solutions.

Scope of the Acquisition

The transaction will cover rail and road operations, inland terminals, and the Freightliner brand. Other Freightliner operations—Heavy Haul, Rotterdam Rail Feeding, and Freightliner Poland/Germany—will remain under current ownership. Once completed, the intermodal business will operate as a standalone entity within CMA CGM, maintaining its unique market focus.

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Key Data Table: CMA CGM’s Acquisition of Freightliner UK Intermodal

Aspect	Details
Acquirer	CMA CGM (France)
Target	Freightliner UK Intermodal Logistics
Deal Scope	Rail & road operations, inland terminals, and Freightliner brand
Excluded Businesses	Heavy Haul, Rotterdam Rail Feeding, Freightliner Poland/Germany
Completion Timeline	Expected early 2026, subject to regulatory approvals
Future Structure	Intermodal business to operate as a standalone entity under CMA CGM
Heavy Haul	To operate under a new brand, focusing on bulk material transport
Employees in UK	CMA CGM employs nearly 7,200 people across logistics and maritime services
Strategic Goal	Strengthen UK presence; integrate sea, rail, and road for efficiency
Sustainability Focus	Promote modal shift from road to rail; support decarbonization of supply chains

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Strategic Intent and Benefits

1. Strengthening UK Presence – The acquisition bolsters CMA CGM’s position in the UK, aligning sea, rail, and road networks for improved efficiency.
2. Modal Shift to Rail – Reinforcing CMA CGM’s sustainability drive, the deal supports a transition from road to rail transport to cut emissions.
3. Sustainable Transport Solutions – The move is part of CMA CGM’s wider ambition to provide competitive, environmentally responsible logistics in Europe.
4. Standalone Structure – Operating the intermodal business independently ensures dedicated focus on the UK intermodal market.
5. Collaboration Across Divisions – CMA CGM will leverage synergies across its logistics arms to enhance service offerings.
6. Heavy Haul Growth – While excluded from the deal, Heavy Haul will pursue sector-specific growth under a rebranded identity.

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Conclusion

The acquisition of Freightliner’s UK intermodal business demonstrates CMA CGM’s long-term commitment to sustainable logistics and integrated transport solutions. By combining intermodal expertise with its global shipping network, CMA CGM is set to strengthen its role in shaping the future of green, multimodal supply chains in Europe and beyond.