CMA CGM acquires rail freight company's UK operations

CMA CGM has acquired UK-based logistics company Freightliner UK Intermodal Logistics.

The transaction encompasses the company’s rail and road operations, inland terminals, as well as the Freightliner UK brand. The deal is expected to close in early 2026, subject to the required regulatory approvals. Other Freightliner businesses – Heavy Haul, Rotterdam Rail Feeding, and Freightliner Poland/Germany – will remain under existing ownership.

Freightliner operations will remain focused on its multi-user and multi-customer approach, and will be run independently with existing teams who have proven their expertise and dedication. 

A statement from CMA CGM said that the addition of Freightliner UK “opens the way to significant enhanced-value offerings". Among the benefits, the company listed: comprehensive intermodal offerings combining maritime, rail, and road; enhancing connectivity between Europe’s major ports and the UK and improved decarbonisation of operations.

CMA CGM Group chairman and CEO Rodolphe Saadé said: “The acquisition of Freightliner... strengthens our intermodal presence in the United Kingdom, a strategic market for CMA CGM." 

Commenting on the divestment Freightliner Group CEO Tim Shoveller said the transaction "marks an exciting new chapter for Intermodal and Heavy Haul, allowing each to focus on their distinct markets under separate ownership".

"The Intermodal business will become a stand-alone business within CMA CGM’s portfolio, with opportunities to collaborate with other arm’s length CMA CGM companies. Heavy Haul will continue its growth journey in the bulk materials sector under a new brand with a clear focus on strengthening its position as a key freight operator. Our customers will continue to receive the same high-quality leadership and operational teams, and we have robust plans in place to ensure a smooth transition of ownership.”

CMA CGM has significant operations in the United Kingdom, with nearly 7,200 employees across its maritime, logistics, and inland services. In 2024, CMA CGM said it carried 802,000 TEU in containers to and from the UK. CMA CGM Group, through its subsidiary CCIS, said it transported 200,000 TEUs by rail and road between January and July 2025.