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The Bertling Group, which has been active in shipping, chartering, transport logistics, and IT for over 160 years, with its headquarters in Hamburg and 50 offices in 30 countries worldwide, is acquiring Pfaff International GmbH, an established logistics company based in Baienfurt, Upper Swabia. This acquisition, announced on June 15, 2026, aims to significantly strengthen Bertling’s presence in Europe and expand its network in Germany.
Expansion of the European network
Through the integration of Pfaff, which offers tailored transport solutions by road, sea, and air, Bertling will add additional logistics offices and teams in southern and northern Germany as well as in Rauma, Finland, to its network. The acquisition enables Bertling to access a substantial local and European customer base that has been built over the years by Pfaff’s experienced teams. The goal is to provide existing customers with greater value while simultaneously unlocking new growth opportunities in the region by combining the strengths of both companies.
Pfaff’s existing customers can expect a seamless transition period during which their previous contacts will continue to be responsible for the usual quality of service. As integration progresses, customers will gain access to an expanded range of logistics solutions and systems tailored to their increasingly complex requirements, including global heavy lift and engineering solutions as well as air freight offerings.
Strategic importance of the acquisition
Colin MacIsaac, CEO of Bertling Logistics, commented on the acquisition:
“This acquisition represents an important step in our growth strategy in Central Europe. Germany is the birthplace of our company and has always been a central logistics hub for us. By collaborating with Pfaff, we are expanding our network in Germany and enhancing our ability to support customers with an even stronger German expert team.”
Peter Kienle (right), Managing Director of Pfaff, emphasized the benefits of the collaboration:
“We are excited to become part of the Bertling Group. Our shared commitment to quality and customer service, as well as our positive attitude, make our companies an excellent combination. Together, we will combine our strengths, systems, and expertise to better support our customers and drive future growth.”
Integration and future perspectives
The integration of the two companies will focus on combining expert teams, systems, standards, and operational processes while Pfaff is incorporated into the Bertling organization. Hendrik Bulmahn (left), Managing Director of the Bertling Group, stated:
“Our entire team is excited about the integration of Pfaff into our global organization. We are committed to ensuring a seamless integration that respects Pfaff’s achievements. We look forward to becoming the preferred logistics partner in Germany and beyond together.”
