CMA CGM Group has announced its acquisition of Freightliner UK Intermodal Logistics, a leading rail freight operator in the United Kingdom. The transaction, which includes Freightliner’s rail and road operations, inland terminals, and the brand itself, is a significant move to build a sustainable transport offering in Europe and boost the shift from road to rail.
The acquisition is expected to close in early 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. Crucially, other parts of the Freightliner Group—specifically Heavy Haul, Rotterdam Rail Feeding, and Freightliner Poland/Germany—will remain under existing ownership, separating the intermodal business.
CMA CGM confirmed that Freightliner’s operations will continue to be run independently by the existing teams, maintaining a focus on its multi-user and multi-customer approach. The move underscores CMA CGM’s commitment to supporting the modal shift to rail, which is a cornerstone of decarbonising global supply chains due to its lower CO₂ emissions compared to road haulage.
Enhanced Intermodal Offerings and Shared Vision
The addition of Freightliner UK is expected to create strong synergies between the two major brands, leading to significantly enhanced-value offerings for customers. This includes developing comprehensive intermodal solutions combining maritime, rail, and road transport, and improving connectivity between Europe’s major ports and the UK hinterland via strategically located inland terminals.
Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the CMA CGM Group, said: “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.”
Focus on Distinct Markets
The divestment allows the separated Freightliner businesses to focus on their distinct market sectors.
Tim Shoveller, Chief Executive Officer of Freightliner Group, commented: “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.”
CMA CGM is already a significant logistics player in the UK, employing nearly 7,200 staff across its maritime, logistics, and inland services. In 2024, the Group carried 802,000 TEUs to and from the UK. Its subsidiary CEVA Logistics adds to this presence with 6,768 employees across 103 sites, providing vast warehousing capacity and integrated, end-to-end solutions.
