Logistics provider acquires Birmingham firm

Carousel Logistics, the high-performance service-logistics provider and technology platform specialist, has acquired Birmingham-based logistics company BDA Logistics Innovation (BDA) with support from HSBC UK.

The deal increases the Carousel group’s European coverage, and sector experience, all underpinned by Carousel’s industry-leading technology.

The deal strengthens Carousel’s position across Europe, supporting its mission to become the number one choice for high performance industries in the high-value, time critical aftermarket parts services sector. The acquisition is also a major milestone for Carousel, as it continues to extend its European service and technology platform, Gateway.

The combined group now offers clients a wider service portfolio and through dedicated air-bridges an extended network servicing the Netherlands, Ireland and the UK.

The deal brings attractive benefits to both companies’ clients. Utilising Carousel’s proprietary technology platform Gateway, clients have access to all available transport data from across their supply chain. Direct ERP integration has been a key development focus for Carousel, adding transparency and control for clients seeking high-performance service solutions for their aftermarket business.

Aside from data-enabled visibility, security and control, the acquisition also adds extended transport lanes to the existing air and road network, as well as agile next-day parcel and pallet options and personalised warehousing services.

This is Carousel’s third acquisition since 2016 and this deal will increase the company revenue by more than 50%. The deal is the largest in its history and showcases the company’s successful buy, build and partner strategy since receiving investment from private equity firm Livingbridge in 2013.

BDA will be integrated and rebranded as Carousel to reflect its position within the wider group of companies. Kevin Turner will remain as managing director of the air-bridge division and BDA’s operations, locations and account management teams will remain unchanged.

Carousel co-founder and group CEO, Graham Martin said: “With an impressive client portfolio and high service levels we have admired BDA for some time, particularly because they share in our belief for delivering exceptional service solutions.

“As the demand for service-logistics continues to grow, it is important that we provide the right technology, network and services that our clients need. By utilising our established technology infrastructure, we can connect the two companies easily, bringing huge benefits to clients and staff alike. We have a great foundation to work from and we look forward to working with BDA and building on our extensive experience together.” 

BDA group managing director, Kevin Turner said: “The way in which Carousel has grown so dramatically, has been really impressive to watch in recent years. With a mutual recognition of one another’s strengths, we have held Carousel’s market-leading service and technology platform in high regard for some time, while Carousel has recognised the strength of our infrastructure and client relationships.

“In joining the wider group of companies, we can extend our service portfolio and offer agile technologies, all for the benefit of our clients. Plus, with an innovative culture and award-winning commitment to staff training and development, there is also an exciting opportunity for staff too. We can’t wait to get started.”

Jenni Adams, HSBC UK’s area director in Kent, said: “HSBC UK has worked with Carousel Logistics for the last 25 years, so we were delighted to support its acquisition of BDA Logistics Innovation. Under the Carousel brand, the combined businesses will represent a best-in-class technology-led service proposition, serving an entrenched and loyal customer base across Europe. We look forward to continuing our relationship with the team as it embarks on the next stage of the company’s exciting future.”