FM Logistic, a family-owned company founded in 1967 and headquartered in France, with an annual turnover of approximately EUR 1.9 billion, has acquired a majority stake in the Schäflein Group. The logistics service provider employs over 28,000 people worldwide and offers a wide range of integrated solutions across the entire supply chain. These include transport and warehousing logistics, e-commerce fulfilment, co-packing, inventory management, and other value-added services. The acquisition is an integral part of FM Logistic's strategy to further expand its market position in Germany and consolidate its presence, particularly in the industrial sector. The transaction was comprehensively supported legally and economically by a multidisciplinary team from the auditing and consulting firm Forvis Mazars.
With the Schäflein Group, FM Logistic integrates one of the leading logistics service providers in Germany. Schäflein is significantly characterised by a strong presence in the industrial sector, which contributes around 40 percent to its turnover, and the mobility sector, with a share of 27 percent. Furthermore, the company possesses particular expertise in the areas of automation, reusable logistics, and decarbonisation. These specialisations strategically complement FM Logistic's existing service portfolio, especially with regard to forward-looking topics. Both companies are family-owned and share a long-term orientation with a clear commitment to operational excellence and customer-specific solutions. The long-standing relationship between both companies was a key factor in the successful execution of the transaction.
Forvis Mazars supported FM Logistic throughout the entire transaction process. The consulting approach was broad-based and included detailed reviews in finance, tax, legal, HR, IT, ESG, and compliance (Due Diligence). Forvis Mazars was also involved in business modelling, as well as the legal and economic support of the transaction. This included the negotiation of transaction documentation and antitrust advice. The aim was to provide FM Logistic with a sound basis for decision-making and to enable the successful integration of the partner company.
Forvis Mazars' expertise spanned various operational and strategic areas to provide FM Logistic with the best possible support. The Financial, Tax, Legal, HR, IT, ESG, and Compliance Due Diligence provided in-depth insights into the operational and financial structure of the Schäflein Group. Business modelling enabled a precise forecast of future business development and synergy potential. The legal and economic support included the drafting and negotiation of contracts, as well as ensuring antitrust compliance. The multidisciplinary approach, led by André Urlaub, Partner Financial Advisory at Forvis Mazars, ensured coherent and comprehensive advice that met the complex requirements of such a transaction. By pooling these competencies, a smooth and efficient transaction process could be ensured, serving FM Logistic's strategic objectives.
