GEODIS acquires U.S.-based Southern Companies

GEODIS, a world leader in transport and logistics, has acquired Southern Companies, a leading drayage provider based in the U.S. that handles all phases of the import and export process.

"The acquisition enhances GEODIS’ end-to-end supply chain capabilities across the U.S., further strengthening its position as one of the world’s leading providers of logistics services," says an official release.

Southern Companies is a family-owned business founded in Miami in 1965 and has moved more than one million containers, the release added. "The company runs operating terminals serving seven key ports: Port of Miami, Port of Everglades, Port of Houston, Port of Jacksonville, Port of Tampa, Port of Savannah and Port of Charleston." Southern Companies provides a range of import and export services, including warehousing and trucking, to ensure customer goods are moving swiftly through the supply chain, the release added.

"The acquisition of Southern Companies represents an important addition to GEODIS as we continue to strengthen and grow our capabilities, our team and our client roster throughout the U.S.,” says Mike Honious, President & CEO, Americas, GEODIS. “Southern Companies has been a leader in drayage services, from warehousing to trucking, for nearly six decades and operates in ports that are critical to our clients. From their people and culture to their expertise and capabilities, Southern Companies is an ideal fit for GEODIS and aligns perfectly with our Americas growth strategy.”

Jorge Mora, Owner & CEO, Southern Companies adds: “We have been relentlessly focused on import and export logistics with a special emphasis on port operations, and have witnessed tremendous organic growth since our beginnings over 55 years ago. We understand the unique needs of our clients and have proven expertise in maintaining the highest standards of excellence while meeting the ever-changing demands of a growing international market. By combining our capabilities with GEODIS’ exceptional leadership, deep bench of experts and global footprint, we can expand our reach and provide an even broader range of services to our clients to help them navigate today’s complex supply chain landscape.”

GEODIS currently operates more than 150 warehouse facilities with over 50 million square feet of warehousing space in the U.S. alone. GEODIS generated €13.7 billion in revenue in 2022, the release added.