SEKO Logistics has started a ‘transformative year’ by making its first full acquisition, with the purchase of Chicago-based GoodShip International.
Goodship provides customs brokerage, compliance, and air and ocean freight services to clients with an emphasis on Eastbound Trans-Pacific routes.
Clients vary from recognisable brands to start-ups spanning industries including aerospace, automotive, electronics, FMCG, healthcare, pharma and retail.
James Gagne, president and CEO of SEKO says after 42 years of organic growth, it was time to work with strategic partners and undertake acquisitions to enhance its technology, network and capabilities.
He says: “GoodShip’s customs brokerage and compliance expertise has earned the respect and trust of the company’s customers in Chicago and the Midwest and this will add more depth to what we offer today.”
The acquisition of GoodShip will build the capabilities of SEKO’s Chicago Gateway, which offers support to international shippers by adding a new level of customs brokerage and compliance services.
Ryan Villiard, president of GoodShip says: “GoodShip’s clients will now have access to the resources and expertise of a single logistics company that possesses a worldwide footprint, key technology differentiators, and award-winning forwarding, omni-channel, cross-border eCommerce, and White Glove services. This is a great move for our company, our employees and customers.”
The transaction was initiated by Republic Partners, who also served as advisor to SEKO on the transaction.
2018 was a busy year for SEKO; it expanded into Mexico with the opening of locations in Laredo/Nuevo Laredo, McAllen/Reynosa, Mexico City, Monterrey, Toluca and Queretaro.
In August, SEKO announced a strategic partnership with Hermes Germany and in September, SEKO acquired a majority shareholding in Omni-Channel Logistics to grow its e-commerce and technology services for retailers, pure-play e-tailers, marketplaces and platforms.
