UK M&A supply chain & logistics activity Q4 2024

In the fourth quarter of 2024, the UK's supply chain and logistics sector maintained robust investment and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity, reflecting sustained investor confidence and strategic consolidation efforts.

**Continued High Deal Volume**

Building on the momentum from previous quarters, Q4 2024 saw a significant number of transactions in the logistics and supply chain management sector. Notably, over 50% of these deals were cross-border, indicating a strong resurgence of international investor interest. ([transportmonthly.co.uk](https://transportmonthly.co.uk/uk-logistics-deals-hit-five-year-quarterly-high-but-deal-values-remain-low)

**Key Transactions**

Several high-profile deals underscored the dynamic nature of the sector during this period:

- **InPost's Acquisition of Menzies Distribution**: InPost Group acquired the remaining 70% stake in Menzies Distribution for £60.4 million, gaining full control of the UK logistics company. This move enhances InPost's logistics capabilities and aligns with its investment plans in the UK. ([thetimes.co.uk](https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/inpost-menzies-graham-family-dairy-scottish-business-digest-2024-3kz8b69g)

- **Royal Mail Takeover by EP Group**: The UK government approved the £3.6 billion takeover of Royal Mail's parent company, International Distribution Services (IDS), by Czech billionaire Daniel Křetínský's EP Group. This historic deal marks the first foreign control of Royal Mail in its 508-year history and includes commitments to maintain service obligations and UK operations. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/business/2024/dec/16/royal-mail-takeover-daniel-kretinsky-uk-ids)

**International Investment Trends**

The prominence of cross-border deals in Q4 2024 highlights the UK's continued appeal as a prime destination for global investment in the logistics sector. International investors are increasingly recognizing the strategic value of UK-based logistics and supply chain assets, leading to heightened M&A activity. ([transportmonthly.co.uk](https://transportmonthly.co.uk/uk-logistics-deals-hit-five-year-quarterly-high-but-deal-values-remain-low)

**Outlook**

The sustained high level of M&A activity in the UK's logistics and supply chain sector during Q4 2024 reflects ongoing investor confidence and the strategic importance of the industry. As companies continue to seek growth opportunities and enhance their operational capabilities, the sector is expected to remain a focal point for investment and consolidation efforts moving forward.

- [thetimes.hatatco.uk](https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/inpost-menzies-graham-family-dairy-scottish-business-digest-2024-3kz8b69gj
- [theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/business/2024/dec/16/royal-mail-takeover-daniel-kretinsky-uk-ids