A global logistics provider has acquired a Humber-based shipping specialist to enhance its worldwide service provision and secure a new strategic location in Europe.
Pentagon Freight Services, a privately-owned logistics provider to the energy industries, has purchased Carlbom Shipping Ltd, which has served UK and international clients since 1897.
Established in the late 19th century with strong Scandinavian connections, Carlbom’s location and skills base has allowed it to enter the renewable energy market, particularly the North Sea offshore wind farms, including managing the warehousing, logistics, and procurement for the regional offshore supply chain.
The deal will enable Pentagon, which operates in 72 locations globally and employs more than 1,100 workers, to offer an end-to-end service to clients, including a full suite of ships agency services, complete with fully integrated IT systems, and enhance its service offering to the renewable sector.
Established in London in 1974, Pentagon has a fifth of its workforce in the UK, operating in Aberdeen, Dartford, Glasgow, Newcastle and Great Yarmouth.
By acquiring Carlbom, a family-run ships agency, Pentagon reinforces its strength in vessel and cargo handling, adding an important facility at the busy Humber ports of Immingham, Grimsby and Hull.
Pentagon Freight Services chief executive Ashley Taylor, said: “It was clear from the start that there is a great deal of synergy between our companies and together we can combine to deliver an enhanced service to all our clients, from traditional ships agency, to logistics, warehousing, customs brokerage, and procurement.
“The Carlbom team and its expertise in ships agency and offshore wind are a highly valuable addition to the Pentagon Group and we look forward to building on Carlbom’s impressive heritage.”
Camilla Carlbom Flinn, chairman of Carlbom Shipping Ltd, added: “Pentagon Freight is the perfect partner for Carlbom Shipping. It was very important to us to find a partner with a similar background – a family-run company that invests in people and shares the same vision for delivering outstanding service to clients locally and internationally.
“Pentagon’s strength and expertise in logistics from within the oil and gas sector means they can bring in-house knowledge to the offshore and renewables sector and combine it with our expertise in the maritime industry to provide a seamless service to our clients.”
