Specifically, the Commission found that the combined entity would have created a “vertical link” between CMA CGM’s dominant position in container shipping on routes connecting Europe with these French territories, and Bolloré Logistics’ strong presence in sea freight forwarding in the same territories. This, the Commission argued, could have allowed CMA CGM to favour its own logistics arm at the expense of competitors.
To address these concerns, CMA CGM agreed to divest all of Bolloré Logistics’ activities in Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and French Guiana, as well as related assets in mainland France. This, according to the Commission, will effectively remove the problematic “vertical link” and ensure continued competition in the affected markets.
The decision was welcomed by Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President in charge of competition policy:
“Competitive maritime transport markets are crucial to strengthen territorial cohesion within the European Union, ensuring that remote and insular territories remain well connected and can develop economically. The remedies offered by the parties will ensure that the local sea freight forwarding markets remain competitive and that, ultimately, local customers do not end up paying higher prices for products imported from mainland Europe. ”
This final approval by the European Commission, with the proposed remedies, marks the conclusion of this investigation and paves the way for the completion of the acquisition.
Bolloré Solutions Logistiques acquires healthcare subsidiary of Stef Group
On 26 February 2024, Bolloré Solutions Logistiques, a subsidiary of Bolloré Logistics, specialising in contract logistics, announced its acquisition of STEF Logistique Santé (SLS). This operation enables BSL to expand its “Contract Logistics” service and to strengthen its expertise in the pharmaceutical industry.
SLS employs 85 people at three different sites in Strasbourg (Port du Rhin). In addition to its logistics business, SLS is also involved in supplying specific packaging for pharmaceutical products.
Through this transaction, BSL has acquired a total surface area of around 13,000 m² at controlled temperatures of +2°/+8°C, +15°/+25°C and -20°C.
BSL now operates over 85,000 m² of warehousing space in France, including a 10,000 m² temperature-controlled logistics facility in Alsace, built in 2021 at Strasbourg Entzheim airport. From this location, BSL provides high value-added services for pharmaceutical product flows and logistics operations, including the handling of air and sea export flows.
“The acquisition of STEF Logistique Santé is part of a twofold approach, encompassing our Contract Logistics growth strategy as well as our drive to enhance our service offering in the Healthcare sector. We are thrilled to have been able to conclude this deal, enabling us to offer comprehensive solutions to our customers in a rapidly growing sector”, said Laurent Foloppe, CEO of Bolloré Solutions Logistiques.