Körber buys Siemens Logistics for €1.15bn

International technology group Körber is acquiring Siemens Logistics’ global mail and parcel business for €1.15 billion to broaden its range of supply chain services as Siemens focuses on core technology businesses.

The Siemens Logistics’ mail and parcel technology and systems business is a leading provider in Europe with a strong market presence in North America and a foothold in the fast-growing Chinese market. With around 1,200 employees, it generates annual revenue of about €500 million.

The transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, does not include the Siemens Logistics’ airport services business, including baggage and cargo handling systems.

Complementary supply chain services

Körber’s Supply Chain business area already provides companies around the world with integrated software and automation solutions along the entire supply chain. Customers benefit from tailored and seamlessly integrated, supply chain solutions including automation, software, SAP consulting, voice, robotics, and material handling.

With the acquisition of Siemens Logistics’ mail and parcel business, Körber will thus complement its existing supply chain offerings and provide leading solutions in mail and parcel logistics. Körber is opening a complementary product offering and gaining access to the world’s leading logistics providers. This creates new opportunities for partnerships from which the Group’s existing customers can benefit. In turn, Siemens Logistics’ mail and parcel business will benefit from Körber’s end-to-end supply chain and global system integration capabilities.

Positioned for growth

Stephan Seifert, CEO of the Körber Group, said: “Siemens Logistics as a key player in the global courier, express, parcel and e-commerce market is very well positioned with its global customer base. With Siemens Logistics’ mail and parcel business we broaden and complement our market offering as a globally leading partner to the supply chain and e-commerce industry – covering all relevant solutions such as hardware, software, digital and system integration. I am very excited about the combined opportunities of being a leading and trusted partner for the industry and our customers. One thing is certain: We are and will continue to be their technologically leading and reliable partner.”

Dirk Hejnal, CEO Körber Business Area Supply Chain, added: “The team from Siemens Logistics’ mail and parcel business impressively combines machine-based processes with intelligent, digital automation technology creating comprehensive, value-creating solutions for major global logistics players. Siemens Logistics’ expertise in this area will no doubt strengthen our offerings and enhance our technology leadership.”

Fit for the future

Commenting on the strategic disposal, Roland Busch, CEO of Siemens, said: “We’re continuously sharpening and optimizing our portfolio in order to further strengthen Siemens as a focused technology company. In Körber, we’re very pleased to have found for our employees and customers the ideal new owner for our mail and parcel business.”

Ralf Thomas, CFO of Siemens AG, added: “The recent outstanding development of Siemens Logistics’ mail and parcel business demonstrates that our concept for our portfolio companies is enabling us to further develop businesses and make them fit for the future even when they are not part of our core business.”