CMA CGM Boosts UK Intermodal Network with Acquisition of Rail Freight Leader Freightliner

The CMA CGM Group has announced the acquisition of Freightliner, the UK's leading rail freight operator, to strengthen its intermodal services and advance the decarbonization of supply chains in Europe.

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Freightliner, the UK's leading rail freight operator (Ảnh: Phaata)

Yesterday (Sept. 22), the CMA CGM Group, a global player in sea, land, air, and logistics solutions, announced the acquisition of the UK company Freightliner. This transaction includes its rail and road transport operations, inland terminals, and the Freightliner brand.

This deal underscores CMA CGM's ambition to build a sustainable and competitive transport solution in Europe. By adding an established name in the UK rail freight industry, the group reaffirms its commitment to supporting the modal shift from road to rail – a critical pillar for decarbonizing global supply chains.

The transaction is expected to be completed in early 2026, following the necessary regulatory approvals. Freightliner's other business segments – Heavy Haul, Rotterdam Rail Feeding, and Freightliner Poland/Germany – will remain under their current ownership.

Freightliner's operations will remain focused on a multi-user, multi-customer approach and will be operated independently with the current team.

Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO 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.”

Commenting on the divestment, Tim Shoveller, CEO 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 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.”

The CMA CGM Group: A Major Player in the UK

CMA CGM has a strong presence in the United Kingdom with nearly 7,200 employees across its maritime, logistics, and inland services.

The Group's shipping agency employs 286 staff and operates 28 service lines connecting the UK with the rest of the world. In 2024, CMA CGM transported 802,000 TEU to and from the UK.

In the intermodal sector, through its subsidiary CCIS, the Group moved 200,000 TEU by rail and road from January to July 2025. CEVA Logistics, another Group subsidiary, employs 6,768 people at 103 locations, solidifying its position as a major logistics player in the UK and across Europe.

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