EUROPEAN LOGISTICS operator Geodis is acquiring Röhde & Liesenfeld (R&L), its main freight forwarding partner, for €77 million (R770m). Subject to the approval of the competition authorities, the transaction will be completed at the beginning of 2008. The acquisition will provide Geodis with a foothold in several new markets, notably South Africa where R&L is well established. R&L operates mainly in Germany (34% of revenue), Latin America (17%), South Africa (16%) and Australia/ New Zealand (14%) and has 710 employees. Geodis sees the acquisition strengthening its presence not only in Africa but also in Latin America and providing expertise in handling industrial projects, especially in the oil and gas industry, where R&L is a strong player. FTW was awaiting comment from R&L SA regarding the implications of the deal for the local operation when this issue went to press on Monday morning.
