The CMA CGM Group, a global player in transport and logistics solutions, has announced the acquisition of the UK-based company Freightliner. The transaction covers rail and road operations, inland terminals, as well as the Freightliner brand.
This acquisition underscores CMA CGM’s ambition to build a sustainable and competitive transport offering in Europe. By adding a recognized brand in the UK rail freight sector to its portfolio, the Group reaffirms its commitment to supporting the modal shift from road to rail – a key pillar in the decarbonization of global supply chains.
The transaction is expected to close in early 2026, subject to the necessary regulatory approvals. The remaining Freightliner companies – Heavy Haul, Rotterdam Rail Feeding, and Freightliner Poland/Germany – will remain under their current management.
Freightliner’s operations will continue to focus on a multi-user, multi-customer approach and will be managed independently by the existing teams, who have already demonstrated their competence and dedication.
Rail transport is a crucial lever for reducing CO₂ emissions. With Freightliner UK’s expertise and know-how, CMA CGM will further strengthen its ability to offer customers across Europe smooth and integrated intermodal solutions, covering both transport and terminal operations.
Strong synergies between two major brands
The addition of Freightliner paves the way for higher value-added offerings: the development of comprehensive intermodal services combining maritime, rail, and road transport; improved connections between Europe’s main ports and the UK hinterland through strategically located inland terminals; and the joint drive for innovation in decarbonized logistics solutions.
Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the CMA CGM Group, said:
“The acquisition of Freightliner, a leading rail operator, strengthens our intermodal presence in the United Kingdom – a key market for CMA CGM. It enables us to more effectively combine maritime, rail, and road transport, delivering better solutions for our customers. It also represents a concrete step toward developing low-carbon transport options, supporting both our customers’ needs and the decarbonization of global trade.”
Commenting on the sale, Tim Shoveller, President of Freightliner Group, said:
“This transaction marks an exciting new chapter for Intermodal and Heavy Haul, allowing each to focus on their distinct markets under separate leadership. Intermodal will become a standalone entity within the CMA CGM portfolio, with the opportunity to collaborate with other CMA CGM companies while retaining its independence. Heavy Haul will continue its growth path in the bulk freight sector under a new brand, with a clear goal of strengthening its position as a key freight operator. Our customers will continue to receive the same high-quality service thanks to proven management and operational teams, and we have solid plans in place to ensure a smooth ownership transition.”
CMA CGM Group – a key logistics player in the United Kingdom
CMA CGM has a strong presence in the UK, employing nearly 7,200 people across maritime transport, logistics, and inland services.
The Group’s shipping agency employs 286 staff and manages 28 services linking the UK with the rest of the world. In 2024, CMA CGM transported 802,000 TEUs to and from the UK.
In intermodal transport, CMA CGM, through its subsidiary CCIS, moved 200,000 TEUs by rail and road between January and July 2025, confirming its pioneering role in decarbonized logistics.
CEVA Logistics, a subsidiary of the Group, employs 6,768 people across 103 locations. With 718,000 m² of warehousing and consolidation space, as well as annual volumes of 33,800 tons in air freight and 69,400 TEUs in ocean freight, CEVA delivers integrated, end-to-end solutions, strengthening the Group’s position as a leading logistics operator in both the United Kingdom and across Europe.
