R&L top executive speaks out on implications of takeover

LAST WEEK’S surprise announcement of the acquisition by European logistics operator Geodis of freight forwarding major Rohde & Liesenfeld took many in the industry by surprise. FTW’s Joy Orlek spoke to Hamburg-based corporate chief operating officer Matthias Hansen to find out the implications of the deal for the local operation. FTW: How does the acquisition affect R&L in South Africa? R&L: It will have no material impact. R&L has been working with Geodis since 2002 and this relationship is now cemented, creating a powerful international network. FTW: Has the company been for sale for some time? R&L: Not at all. It was an unsolicited approach that was followed through. The shares of the R&L holding company have been sold to Geodis and will be transferred to them early next year subject to competition board approval. FTW: Why has R&L chosen to sell? R&L: There are several reasons. Firstly Bodo Liesenfeld is the sole owner and has no successor. One would therefore assume that in 5–10 years a decision would have been made – it just came sooner than expected. Second, it’s a perfect fit because we have worked for so long with the Geodis network; we know the people and we understand the culture. FTW: Will the company name change? R&L: This hasn’t been discussed but it’s likely that the GeodisWilson brand will ultimately be the target for the overseas division. In specific markets like SA and Germany we will maintain the R&L brand for a certain time, but not forever. There’s unlikely to be any immediate change – we’ll need to assess what sort of benefit the brand brings to the market. FTW: What about staff changes and rationalisation of offices? R&L: R&L operates very successfully, especially in SA, and the team therefore does not need any staff changes. In South Africa Jan Ludolph will continue as MD. There is not a lot of overlap elsewhere in the world so we foresee very minor changes in terms of offices and staff and we believe there will be room for all staff in the merged operation. FTW: What are the benefits to R&L? R&L: There are several benefits, among them a powerful network in a number of countries where R&L is not so well represented, like Scandinavia, as well as the key accounts that Geodis brings on board. The feedback so far has been extremely positive from our own people who see the benefits of a bigger network and financial stability – the future looks good!