FM Logistic acquires German logistics provider Schäflein to accelerate European growth
WALTER FRIES Corporate Finance GmbH acted as exclusive M&A advisor to Schäflein AG and its shareholder families on the sale of a majority stake in the German group Schäflein to FM Logistic, one of Europe’s leading supply chain providers. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including merger clearance by the German Federal Cartel Office (Bundeskartellamt).
This landmark transaction brings together two established family-owned businesses with complementary strengths, marking an industry-defining step in the German logistics market and creating a strong platform for future growth.
The transaction combines Schäflein’s strong position in Germany and expertise in industrial and contract logistics with FM Logistic’s international platform and extensive European footprint. At the same time, it enables FM Logistic to establish a significant presence in Europe’s largest logistics market through a highly respected logistics platform with deep customer relationships and a proven management team.
From the outset, the objective of the shareholder families was clear: to identify a partner capable of strengthening Schäflein’s future growth while preserving the entrepreneurial culture, operational excellence and family values that have shaped the business for generations. Following a carefully managed cross-border process, FM Logistic emerged as the right partner supporting this vision and sharing the same values.
Following completion, the Company’s management board will remain unchanged. Achim and Bernd Schäflein will remain shareholders, underlining the long-term nature of the partnership and ensuring continuity for customers, employees and business partners.
The transaction underlines WALTER FRIES Corporate Finance’s sell-side expertise in advising family-owned and owner-managed businesses on strategic partnerships, shareholder transitions and complex cross-border transactions.
About Schäflein
Schäflein AG is an owner-managed medium-sized logistics service provider headquartered in Röthlein near Schweinfurt, Germany. Since 1939, Schäflein has been developing integrated logistics solutions across the entire supply chain. Around 2,500 employees at more than 35 logistics locations in Germany, Austria, and Poland. Services include transport logistics, warehouse logistics, container management, production supply, and value-added services. Schäflein combines traditional values with modern logistics IT and customized solutions for industrial and commercial customers.
About FM Logistic
Supporting the development of sustainable omnichannel supply chains is central to FM Logistics strategy. Created in 1967, the family business is one of the main players in logistics in France and internationally, with a turnover of 1.9 billion euros. FM Logistic puts its expertise in consumer product logistics at the service of major manufacturers, distributors and e-commerce players. Its services cover the different stages of the supply chain: domestic and international transport, warehousing and inventory management, preparation and shipping of e-commerce and store orders, co-packing, “control tower” services. The company is aiming for carbon neutrality for its warehousing activities by 2030 and is among the best employers in its sector, as evidenced by the Top Employers France certification for the 10th consecutive year as well as the rankings of Forbes and Capital magazines. It employs more than 28,000 people in Europe, Asia and Latin America.
About Walter Fries Corporate Finance
WALTER FRIES Corporate Finance (WFCF), based in Aschaffenburg, is a renowned M&A boutique with more than 25 years of market presence. WFCF specializes in advising and executing sophisticated sell side transactions for mid-cap companies, particularly succession solutions for family-owned and owner-led businesses. The firm’s expertise spans a wide range of industries, with a consistent focus on identifying the ideal buyer for each transaction and securing sustainable, long-term solutions for owners and management. Through its extensive network of strategic investors, family offices, and financial investors, WFCF connects its clients with relevant market players and ensures that the interests of selling shareholders are prioritized throughout the entire transaction process, from initial preparation to closing.
