French multimodal giant acquires Birmingham's Freightliner

In a significant move for the UK's logistics sector, French shipping and logistics giant CMA CGM has acquired Freightliner, the nation's largest maritime intermodal operator. The deal, for an undisclosed sum, was announced today and is expected to close in early 2026, pending regulatory approvals.

The acquisition strengthens CMA CGM's already substantial presence in the UK, where it employs nearly 7,200 people across its maritime, logistics, and inland services. This includes CEVA Logistics, which it acquired in 2019. The acquisition of Freightliner is seen as a major step in the group's efforts to promote a shift from road to rail transportation.

The transaction covers Freightliner's core intermodal operations, including its rail and road services, inland terminals, and the brand itself. However, certain divisions, such as Freightliner's heavy haul freight train business, Rotterdam Rail Feeding, and its Polish/German operations, will remain under their current ownership.

CMA CGM stated there are “strong synergies” between the two brands. Freightliner, headquartered in Birmingham and operating a fleet of over 500 trucks and 900 trailers, will continue to be run independently by its existing management.

Rodolphe Saadé, CMA CGM Group chairman and chief executive, commented: “The acquisition of Freightliner, a leading rail freight operator, strengthens our intermodal presence in the United Kingdom, a strategic market for CMA CGM. It enables us to connect sea, rail and road more efficiently, delivering better solutions for our customers. It is also a concrete step in expanding lower-carbon transport options, supporting both their needs and the decarbonization of global trade.”

The transaction will see Freightliner's intermodal business become a stand-alone entity within CMA CGM's portfolio. Meanwhile, the Heavy Haul division will continue its growth in the bulk materials sector under a new brand.

Freightliner Group chief executive Tim Shoveller said: “This transaction marks an exciting new chapter for Intermodal and Heavy Haul, allowing each to focus on their distinct markets under separate ownership. The Intermodal business will become a stand-alone business within CMA CGM’s portfolio, with opportunities to collaborate with other arm’s length CMA CGM companies. Heavy Haul will continue its growth journey in the bulk materials sector under a new brand with a clear focus on strengthening its position as a key freight operator. Our customers will continue to receive the same high-quality leadership and operational teams, and we have robust plans in place to ensure a smooth transition of ownership.”