Hermes gears up for global activity

Hermes gears up for global activity: As of 1 September 2018, Hermes Germany will be taking over SEKO Logistics GmbH with offices in Bremen and Frankfurt and become its legal successor.

All employees of both SEKO offices in Germany will be incorporated into the new structure. Hermes will also become a key partner of the global SEKO network. SEKO Logistics is a globally established provider of international supply chain services, which also include freight and IT solutions. With this alliance, the partners aim to combine their competencies in B2B and B2C businesses.

“We are delighted to have found in SEKO Logistics an internationally well-established partner that offers an ideal enhancement of the service spectrum of Hermes. With this acquisition, we will not only create synergy for the entire Hermes Group, the existing customer bases of both companies will also profit from the changes brought about by a broader product portfolio, e.g. in terms of access to fulfilment solutions in the USA, Asia and Europe”, said Stephan Schiller, Managing Director Hermes Europe.

In addition, Hermes Germany will become a key partner of the global SEKO network: The international forwarding and logistics company based in the USA has more than 120 branches in over 40 countries. The network’s focus is on omni-channel logistics, white glove solutions, technology, international air and ocean freight, surface transport, combined transport, demand chain solutions, warehousing and logistics services. This broadens the international growth potential for the Hermes Group, particularly in view of the key e-commerce markets in the USA, Asia and Europe.

SEKO Logistics, in turn, will profit from the extensive Hermes distribution network in Europe. With BorderGuru and SEKO Omni Parcel, both companies will be bringing start-ups into the partnership that are specialised in cross-border e-commerce solutions. SEKO have also recently launched a guide to international shipping for brands looking to break into international markets.

James Gagne, President & CEO of SEKO Logistics, commented: “We are extremely pleased to have gained a well-established partner in Hermes, one of the largest players on the European parcel and 2-man-handling market and a highly efficient provider of supply chain solutions. The partnership will blend together the heritage, experience and innovative services of two highly respected logistics companies whilst strengthening our respective global networks and local presence.”

Along with digitisation and customer- oriented, flexible services, the Hermes Group’s focus in 2018 is internationalisation. The Hermes International business unit established within Hermes Germany at the beginning of the year consolidates all international activities of Hermes. By 2020, the Hermes Group, which is a part of the Otto Group, plans to make investments to the tune of approx. 500 million euros across all business units. The main focus in the current financial year includes the growth of the cross-border parcel service, which is to be promoted by business units such as Hermes International.