South African logistics company Imperial is making a name for itself in the global supply chain and logistics industry with the Group's second acquisition in as many months.
Following the €207 million acquisition of Palletways Group in June, Imperial has announced that it has acquired a controlling share of fellow South African business, Sasfin Premier Logistics, reportedly creating a “formidable new player in the freight and logistics market”.
According to Johan Truter, CEO of Imperial Managed Solutions, the new business entity will be named Imperial Sasfin Logistics, and offer end-to-end import and export solutions.
Imperial Sasfin Logistics will cover freight forwarding, customs clearing, warehousing, transport and distribution – as well as a full suite of trade finance products to facilitate international trade.
“We recognised an excellent fit with Imperial, given the group’s capability in warehousing, distribution and transport, and business experience and expertise in Africa and elsewhere,” said Sasfin Group CEO, Roland Sassoon.
“This, combined with Sasfin’s complementary lending and trade solutions to clients, including trade and debtor finance, FX execution and advisory services, makes Imperial Sasfin Logistics arguably the most all-encompassing one-stop solution for clients involved in importing and exporting product.”
Truter noted that Imperial sought to partner with Sasfin to leverage the group’s international network, systems and technology.
“Importers and exporters face many risks which could potentially lead to inefficiencies and compromise profitability. Our partnership with Sasfin has created a strong logistics entity to which clients can fully outsource their international logistics requirements,” said Truter.
“We can mitigate their risks, manage their complexity, and they do not need to deal with multiple parties in the supply chain. In addition to a proven track record in managing and controlling international freight forwarding, customs clearing, warehousing, distribution and related value added services, Imperial Sasfin Logistics offers clients the competitive advantage of access to Sasfin’s financial expertise and solutions. Our aim is to simplify global trade challenges for clients.”