A.P. Moeller Strategizes Purchase of DSL's Assets

The transport unit of Danish oil and shipping group A.P. Moeller, Maersk Logistics, said on Thursday it planned to buy certain activities and assets of global logistics company Distribution Services Ltd (DSL).

"The deal is not yet closed and the amount would be undisclosed," Maersk Logistics said. DSL, with headquarters in both the U.S. and Hong Kong, has 200 operating offices in 60 countries and 1,500 employees.

Maersk Logistics would acquire the activities, assets and related operations of DSL's storage and warehouse operations, ocean transport intermediary activities and consolidation business, it said.

The takeover would significantly increase Maersk Logistics' cargo volumes from Asia Pacific to North America in the supply chain management segment and make the company a leading player in storage and warehouse operations in North America, Maersk Logistics said.

"There is a strong synergy between the two companies and the acquisition would provide a platform for future growth," said a Maersk Logistics executive.