K+N moves to further expand its perishables network

Aug 03, 2018: Supply chain giant Kuehne + Nagel continues to expand its perishables network with the acquisition of the perishables business of Panatlantic Logistics SA, Ecuador.

Founded in 1979, the company is headquartered in Ecuador’s capital city, Quito. Operations are carried out in a temperature controlled warehouse at Quito airport.

This acquisition will enable Kuehne + Nagel to strengthen its position in the export market to the United States, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.

“Perishables Logistics is a strong growth driver for Kuehne + Nagel. After the integration of two market leaders in 2017 the acquisition of the perishables business of Panatlantic Logistics SA marks another important step in our global strategy. Our KN FreshChain offers scalable solutions and highest standards for transportation of temperature sensitive perishable products. With Panatlantics Logistics on board we further strengthen and expand our fresh chain network – the largest in the logistics industry for perishables – connecting key production countries to major markets,” said Yngve Ruud, member of the Managing Board of Kuehne + Nagel International AG, responsible for Airfreight.

The combined volume of Kuehne + Nagel´s current business portfolio and Panatlantic´s will account for 32,000 tonnes air export perishables per annum out of Ecuador. Together with the perishables business managed in Colombia, Peru, Brazil and Chile, Kuehne + Nagel controls over 120,000 tonnes per annum of air export perishables in the South and Central America region.

“By joining forces we will co-create an enormous potential of opportunities for our customers. Our strong and reliable market position in Ecuador will add and generate new and multiple chances for growing perspectives and services,” said Raúl Aragundi, CEO and shareholder of Panatlantic Logistics SA.

“By acquiring this specialised player, Kuehne + Nagel consolidates its leading position in one of South America’s key perishables export markets, and, at the same time, considerably strengthens its position in the regional airfreight markets,” said Ingo Goldhammer, president South and Central American region, Kuehne + Nagel.