Pfenning Group takes over the Spedition Gräfen

Pfenning logistics diversifies its services through a strategic acquisition and expands them to new target industries. The merger with Spedition Gräfen Logistik GmbH from Nerdlen in the Vulkaneifel took place on March 6th, 2023. The logistics service provider has specialized in the core areas of long-distance transport, general cargo, refrigerated logistics, consignment warehouses and branded distribution and employs around 220 people. Under the direction of managing director Hans-Josef Gräfen, who represents the second generation of owners, the company, which was founded in 1946, has extensive expertise in the area of 2-man handling, general cargo and food service, which is to be expanded further in the future.

In the future cooperation, the two companies want to bundle competencies and further develop the existing business areas. “We complement each other perfectly, also because we focus on promoting young talent from within our own ranks. Spedition Gräfen Logistik is one of the most important training companies in the Vulkaneifel with an average of 20 trainees per year. A method that serves as a tried and tested remedy against the future shortage of skilled workers," emphasizes Rana Matthias Nag, Managing Director of the pfenning Group.

Hans-Josef Gräfen emphasizes the positive similarities between the two companies: "As an owner-managed company with flat hierarchies and short decision-making processes, we have found a partner on an equal footing in the pfenning Group who is compatible with our values."

“The acquisition opens up market access for the pfenning group to a nationwide and Europe-wide general cargo network. In combination with contract logistics, there are other business areas from numerous industries," adds Rana Matthias Nag.

On its growth path, the pfenning Group has already acquired six more companies since 2021, thereby strengthening its service portfolio in the areas of e-commerce & fulfillment, mobility solutions, fresh produce logistics, personnel services and co-packing/display construction.

The pfenning group now employs 6,900 people in Europe.