AIT Worldwide Logistics, a leading global supply chain solutions provider, has successfully acquired Global Transport Solutions Group (GTS), a distinguished international freight forwarder specializing in time-critical marine spare parts logistics.
Headquartered in the Netherlands, GTS operates with over 600 employees across 16 locations in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America, serving more than 2,000 ports globally. The GTS network includes nine consolidation hubs with a total warehouse space exceeding 45,000 square meters.
Vaughn Moore, Chairman and CEO of AIT, expressed his welcome to the new GTS team, highlighting that this acquisition represents the largest in the company’s history. Moore emphasized the synergy between AIT’s time-critical supply chain solutions and GTS’ expertise in marine spare parts logistics.
GTS comprises two sub-brands: Marinetrans, established in 1991, excelling in “door-to-deck” spare parts logistics for ship owners, and Best Global Logistics, founded in 2007, providing time-critical solutions for various industries, including life sciences.
According to Greg Weigel, AIT’s Chief Business Officer, the acquisition extends AIT’s geographical presence in Greece, Japan, and the Nordic region. It also adds substantial capacity and subject matter expertise to AIT’s existing networks in China, the Netherlands, and Singapore. The deal sets the stage for the expansion of GTS’ marine spare parts solutions through AIT’s extensive global freight network.
Keith Tholan, AIT’s President and COO, emphasized the alignment of GTS’ core values with those of AIT, focusing on customer-first, operational excellence, and partnership and collaboration.
The acquisition provides a strategic opportunity for AIT to invest in and expand GTS’ North American operations, leveraging AIT’s robust salesforce and offering world-class spare parts logistics solutions in every port.
John Burgstra, GTS co-CEO, sees the acquisition as a chance to enhance the global operations of GTS and provide clients with an unparalleled experience in terms of visibility, transparency, and on-time performance. Vegard Prytz, GTS co-CEO, highlighted the benefits of integrating with AIT’s global infrastructure to create a more integrated and seamless solution for clients worldwide.
The terms of AIT’s agreement to acquire Global Transport Solutions Group have not been disclosed.
About AIT Worldwide Logistics
AIT Worldwide Logistics is a global freight forwarder that helps companies grow by expanding access to markets all over the world where they can sell and/or procure their raw materials, components and finished goods. For more than 40 years, the Chicago-based supply chain solutions leader has relied on a consultative approach to build a global network and trusted partnerships in nearly every industry, including aerospace, automotive, consumer retail, food, government, healthcare, high-tech, industrial and life sciences. Backed by scalable, user-friendly technology, AIT’s flexible business model customizes door-to-door deliveries via sea, air, ground and rail — on time and on budget. With expert teammates staffing more than 130 worldwide locations in Asia, Europe and North America, AIT’s full-service options also include customs clearance, warehouse management and white glove services. Learn more at www.aitworldwide.com.