Kenya-based perishables handler extends operational control across European distribution network with Netherlands acquisition
GSA Midnight Zulu has acquired Netherlands-based logistics firm Balkenende Airfreight and Perishable to expand its trucking network within Europe.
Midnight Zulu said it would benefit from Balkenende’s long-haul trucking solutions for airfreight perishables.
"It is business as normal at Balkenende as it continues to work with industry colleagues and to provide seamless logistics solutions for its customers," the company said in a press release.
Midnight Zulu orchestrates the uplift of around 26m tonnes of perishable cargo annually, on Magma's regular weekly scheduled freighters from Kenya and provides handling, customs clearance and onward trucking within Europe and to the UK.
Chris Balkenende and his partner Alie will continue to be “part of the operation during the transition process”.
"The acquisition of Balkenende further strengthens MZ’s ability to serve its customers and provide stability for its industry partners, maintaining detailed operational control, every step of the way, in what is a complex and time-critical logistics chain," said Midnight Zulu chief executive Thomas Frankum.
He added: "‘As a business MZ continually strives for growth and betterment. This acquisition provides a springboard for business extension in the Netherlands and across Europe.
"We intend to provide the same best-in-class service provision for new clients within the spheres of haulage, freight forwarding, imports and exports."
MidnightZulu has a presence in the UAE, Belgium and UK, while its operational base is in Kenya.
The company also announced that Kees Verheul has been appointed as European managing director and is tasked with developing Balkenende in Amsterdam as well as MZ’s broader European clearance, handling, forwarding and trucking enterprises.
Previously, Kees was a director at Veleka Logistics in the Netherlands.
