Score One for HHLA: European Giant Snagging Majority Stake in Ukrainian Rail Terminal
HHLA obtains significant controlling interest in a railway terminal within Ukraine - Logistics corporation HHLA seizes substantial ownership of railway terminal in Ukraine
You know , right? The folks behind a sprawling, Europe-dominating network for container handling and transportation - think bustling seaports in German heartland Hamburg, Ukraine's Odessa, Italy's Trieste, and Estonia's Tallinn? Well, they're taking things a step further.
HHLA's freight-focused rail branch, Metrans, is gearing up for some serious action in Central and Eastern Europe, with 20 rail terminals on the line for container handling, and a rolling roster of freight trains. And guess where they're setting their sights now? Ukraine's far west, near the borders with Slovakia and Hungary.
Why the obsession with Ukraine's rail grid? Philip Sweens, CEO of HHLA International, sums it up best: "This investment is a clear commitment to Ukraine's economic and logistics potential." Angela Titzrath, HHLA's CEO, echoes the sentiment, emphasizing the role this move plays in Ukraine's economic integration with the EU, aiming to create a transportation corridor between the two.
So, where's the juicy bit, you ask? Well, HHLA is busy snagging a 60% stake in the Eurobridge Intermodal Terminal in Batjowo, a move that's part of a joint venture with Fortior Capital, a Kyiv-based investment company. Plus, they've got their sights set on transforming the existing bulk cargo terminal into a container-friendly hub, slated to handle around 100,000 containers yearly and even some grain. Now, wasn't that intriguing?
But before can call this one in the bag, there's still the approval hurdle to clear, courtesy of Ukraine's antitrust authority. No worries, though - 's been a mainstay in Ukraine for over 20 years, having laid claim to the Odessa seaport terminal in 2001. The purchase price for their latest haul? They're keeping that one under wraps for now.
Now you're all caught up on 's latest expansion move. Stay tuned for more updates on Europe's logistics juggernauts and their globe-trotting escapades!
Some interesting facts:
- HHLA aims to strengthen economic integration between the EU and Ukraine via the new transport corridor created by the acquisition.
- The strategic location of the new terminal near Slovakia and Hungary makes it a vital junction for several international railway corridors.
Sources: 1. Freight Waves 2. HHLA Press Release
The Commission, with its expertise in regulatory matters, has also been consulted on the draft regulation concerning HHLA's investment in the Eurobridge Intermodal Terminal in Batjowo. This investment, a testament to HHLA's commitment to Ukraine's economic potential, is expected to involve substantial financial resources.
