SEKO Logistics acquires GoodShip
SEKO Logistics has acquired GoodShip International Inc, the Chicago-headquartered customs brokerage and compliance consultancy.
It is SEKO’s first acquisition of another independent freight forwarding specialist in its 42-year history.
The investment represents the latest phase of SEKO’s program to accelerate its strategic vision by expanding its global footprint, establishing more strategic partnerships, and making strategic acquisitions in the forwarding and technology sectors.
Founded 24 years ago, GoodShip International provides customs brokerage, compliance, air and ocean freight solutions to a broad diversity of clients with emphasis on the Trans-Pacific Eastbound cargo movements.
“GoodShip is a perfect example of the type of company we had in mind when we announced our expansion strategy earlier this year,” said SEKO’s President and CEO James T. Gagne. “2018 has been another strong year for SEKO but after 42 years of organic growth, it is time to enhance our strategy to step up to the next level by working with the right types of strategic partners and undertaking acquisitions to enhance our technology, network and capabilities.
“GoodShip’s customs brokerage and compliance expertise has earned the respect and trust of the company’s customers in Chicago and the Midwest and this will add more depth to what we offer today.”
The addition of GoodShip International will also build the capabilities of SEKO’s Chicago Gateway, which offers support to international shippers, by adding a new level of customs brokerage and compliance services. Further expansion of SEKO’s Midwest operations will be announced in Q2 2019.
Ryan Villiard, President of GoodShip, stated: “We are genuinely excited by SEKO’s ambition and the pace with which it intends to grow. We can clearly see how we fit into SEKO’s business to support its growing portfolio of value-added forwarding solutions. Most significantly, GoodShip’s clients will now have access to the resources and expertise of a single logistics company that possesses a worldwide footprint, key technology differentiators, and award-winning forwarding, omni-channel, cross-border eCommerce, and White Glove services. This is a great move for our company, our employees and customers.”
