DHL Supply Chain has agreed to acquire Colombian logistics and transport operator Open Market. The acquisition adds a substantial warehousing, cross-docking and transport network to its operations in Latin America.
Announced on 15 September, the proposed acquisition will expand DHL’s capabilities across transport, packaging and temperature-controlled logistics, with particular relevance to the life sciences, healthcare, consumer and manufacturing sectors. Completion remains subject to customary closing conditions.
The transaction forms part of DHL Group’s Strategy 2030. It also follows other investment by the company in Colombia, including the expansion of its Constellation Distribution Center logistics hub in Cota, near Bogotá.
Warehousing and transport capacity
Open Market operates 21 warehouses providing a combined 120,000m² of space. It includes 13 cross-docking platforms and a transport network supported by its own vehicle fleet. Around 4,100 Open Market employees are also expected to join DHL Supply Chain following completion of the deal.
Of particular significance is Open Market’s infrastructure for temperature-controlled logistics. The business handles supply chains for pharmaceuticals, medical products and personal care goods, providing DHL with additional capacity in sectors where storage conditions, handling procedures and transport visibility are closely controlled.
The acquisition will also strengthen DHL’s ability to combine warehousing and distribution with packaging and transport services within Colombia.
Hendrik Venter, CEO of DHL Supply Chain, said the transaction would expand the company’s capabilities in a market experiencing increasing demand for integrated logistics and transport services.
Building regional supply chains
Rather than relying solely on expanding existing facilities, acquiring established regional operators can give global logistics businesses immediate access to infrastructure, personnel and specialist expertise.
Open Market’s cross-docking network is particularly relevant for customers looking to move products through distribution networks without lengthy periods in storage. Meanwhile, its temperature-controlled operations broaden the options available to pharmaceutical and healthcare supply chains.
DHL said the transaction will complement its existing Latin American operations. They commented that it will also provide customers in Colombia with access to a broader portfolio of specialist logistics services.
The agreement also reflects DHL’s wider investment in healthcare logistics. The company is seeking to expand infrastructure capable of handling increasingly specialised and regulated supply chains.
