Aramex acquires Ireland-based Aquaship Agencies, boosts European ocean freight capabilities

Thursday, 3 March 2011 01:06 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Aramex, the global logistics and transportation solutions provider, last week announced the acquisition of Ireland-headquartered Aquaship Agencies, a well-established liner agent and freight forwarder, underlining Aramex’s commitment to further strengthen its presence in the Irish market and expand its ocean freight capabilities in Europe.

Tommy Kelly, Aramex CEO for Europe and North America, said that the alignment with Aquaship will further reinforce the company’s reputation for customer service excellence in Ireland and the wider European market. He added that the acquisition signals Aramex’s intention to invest in strategic expansion opportunities that will support its existing European infrastructure.

“The synergies between these two companies are immense, and the new growth opportunities are tremendous,” said Kelly.

“Since its founding in 1993, Aquaship has earned a reputation for consistent, quality customer service, which is exactly the way Aramex believes in growing its own business. We are especially pleased to welcome onboard Aquaship Managing Director Andy Humphries and his team, who will provide a significant addition to the management team.”

In addition to its Dublin operation, Aquaship also operates out of the port city of Cork. Aquaship staff have already relocated to the Aramex facilities in both locations.

Aramex’s existing customers active in Ireland will have immediate access to the company’s new ocean freight capabilities.

Aramex further believes that there will be a range of cross-selling opportunities, especially in areas of Aquaship specialisation, such as food products, pharmaceuticals and high-end art movements.

“This is an exciting moment in the development of Aquaship, and we are thrilled to become part of such a well-respected and forward-looking company as Aramex,” said Humphries, who will become Manager for Ocean Freight in Ireland.

“Our combined product offering will provide us with a competitive advantage, which will further enhance our prospects for future growth.”

This acquisition in Ireland is the latest in a series of recently formalised international partnerships and acquisitions, including in Turkey, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Vietnam and Kenya. Through this strategic expansion strategy, Aramex is building a more geographically robust network capable of providing comprehensive logistics and transportation services.