Danish logistics firm DSV will acquire Deutsche Bahn’s rail logistics arm DB Schenker, after the signing of the sale agreement by the two companies.
DSV’s latest competitor was Luxemburg-headquartered financial investor CVC, which was the only contender remaining in the race until the end.
DB and DSV agreed on a total sales amount of €14.8 billion (US$16.4 billion), with the new DB Schenker owner planning to invest around €1 billion (US$1.1 billion) in Germany over the next 3-5 years.
Jens H. Lund, CEO of DSV, commented, “We have a clear plan for how we want to become one of the world’s leading transport and logistics company together. Hand in hand and under one roof, the employees of DSV and Schenker will combine our strengths to create a true global leader in the industry. This strategic combination with significant investments in competitiveness will ensure long-term growth and create sustainable jobs in Germany.”
The sales agreement is subject to final approval by the Supervisory Board of Deutsche Bahn AG and the German Federal Government in accordance with the Federal Budget Code (BHO). The transaction is expected to be completed in the course of 2025 following receipt of all regulatory approvals. The agreed social commitments, including those to protect jobs, will apply for two years after completion of the transaction, i.e. until 2027 if the transaction is completed during 2025.
The proceeds from the sale will remain entirely within the DB Group and will significantly reduce the debt, which will make a substantial contribution to the Group’s financial sustainability, according to Deutsche Bahn CEO Richard Lutz. “The sale of DB Schenker to DSV marks the largest transaction in DB’s history and provides our logistics subsidiary with clear growth prospects,” he stated.
