Globe Express Services, Overseas Group Join Forces

March 30, 2010  by in UnCategorized   

By Home Furnishings Business in Delivery on March 31, 2010

Charlotte, N.C.-based freight forwarder Globe Express Services has merged with another "mid-major" freight forwarder, Overseas Group in order to expand their combined global capabilities, build economies of scale and leverage best practices across their organization.

The newly combined company will retain the management teams from both organizations.

"Combining forces with Overseas Group strengthens our position in the logistics market by increasing our efficiencies, knowledge base and market share," said Ziad Korban, who will serve as CEO. "This new partnership will enable us to offer more value added services, expand our geographic footprint and embark upon new opportunities."
 
Gilbert Khoury, president of Overseas Group, said that very little overlap exists within the companies. Each has its own areas of expertise both in terms of business segments and trade lanes served, and also geographic presence.

"Leveraging these non-competing strengths will enable the combined company to rapidly build size and scale, expand its corporate network and thus better serve its clients," Khoury said. For example, Overseas Group's forte is U.S. Exports to Europe and the Middle East, while Globe Express Services has historically focused on Asian imports to the U.S. market.
 
"Both companies have proud histories, strong brands and proven reputations, along with loyal client bases," said Tony Bikhazi, who will serve as president, Americas for the merged operations. "The corporate cultures really clicked in this respect, with both groups committed to providing technology backed logistics solutions and people-driven customer service. ... The combined company now offers robust front line support (corporate offices) and personnel in nearly every major global logistics market including Asia, The Americas, Europe and the Middle East. The biggest thing our customers will notice is expanded global capabilities, backed by great service and value. Beyond that, it will be business as usual."
 
The company's transition team is aggressively working to streamline back office operations, develop a mutual corporate identity, and maintain high levels of customer service.