GLS Belgian subsidiary ABX re-brands
ABX Belgium Distribution, acquired by GLS in December 2006, has re-branded to GLS Belgium Distribution as part of its integration into the European parcels group and ongoing modernisation.
“The rebranding is a step towards a strong GLS Logistics community within Benelux”, said Eberhard Fritze, GLS European Area Manager West/Central Germany & Benelux. “Thanks to the single branding we can signalise to customers and staff our affiliation to a strong and competitive European group.”
Since acquiring the parcel and general cargo business ABX Belgium Distribution, GLS has started a five-year investment of EUR 16 million in modernising the company, including new firewall installations, scanners and security and surveillance technology. Two separate parcel sorting and freight handling systems are being installed at the subsidiary’s depots. Four of its nine depots work with the new systems, and the others should be completed by spring 2009.
“The modernisation measures will strengthen the company and increase quality,” Fritze explained. “In the Benelux countries GLS offers cross-border delivery of freight shipments in addition to its national and international logistics service – one address which is now also one brand.”
GLS reportedly spent about EUR 23 million to win a battle with other European CEP players to buy ABX Belgium Distribution from Belgian Railways in 2006 and thus become the largest B2B parcel company in Belgium. ABX Belgium Distribution generated revenues of approximately EUR 90 million in 2005, two-thirds of which came from the parcel business.
