Transplace acquires Lakeside Logistics, expands presence in Canada

Taking steps to further expand its presence in Canada, non asset-based third-party logistics (3PL) services provider Transplace said this week it has acquired Oakville, Ontario-based 3PL Lakeside Logistics.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Lakeside Logistics delivers customized managed transportation services and solutions to help shippers optimize supply chain operations and reduce transportation costs to support business goals.

“As one of the few true customer and continuous improvement focused lead logistics providers in Canada, Lakeside Logistics is a perfect fit to support Transplace’s vision to deliver manufacturers, retailers, chemical and CPG companies the optimal blend of logistics technology and transportation management services,” said Transplace CEO Tom Sanderson in an interview.

The Transplace CEO explained that Transplace is committed to continuing to provide exceptional services and innovative solutions to its customers, adding that acquiring Lakeside Logistics further supports that commitment.

“This acquisition strengthens Transplace’s presence throughout North America, specifically Canada, better positions the company to deliver transportation services that fit the intra-Canada and cross-border shipping needs of its customers,” he said.

As for the competitive advantages of this deal from a Transplace perspective, Sanderson pointed to how the acquisition supports Transplace’s strategy complementing its strong organic growth with selective, strategic acquisitions in order to meet the supply chain needs of its growing customer base.

Additionally, he said, this acquisition continues Transplace’s commitment to expanding the company’s geographic footprint in Canada, which includes the 2012 acquisition of Canadian 3PL provider Torus Freight Systems, and the opening of offices in Calgary and Montreal in 2014.

“The addition of Lakeside Logistics’ strong, experienced team will further enable Transplace to provide outstanding intra-Canada and cross-border transportation solutions to existing customers as well as new customers,” he said.

Lakeside will be part of Transplace’s Transportation Management business, which is led by its President and CEO Frank McGuigan, with all employees reporting to Transplace SVP of Operations John Kelly.

“Joining Transplace gives our current customers access to the company’s broad range of transportation services, logistics technology and deep industry expertise,” said Jeff Moore, president & CEO, Lakeside Logistics, in a statement. “We look to continue to grow Transplace’s footprint in Canada and provide outstanding service and value to existing and new customers.”

Transplace is owned by Greenbriar Equity Group, and its revenues are more than $1.6 billion. Its main offerings include full transportation outsourcing, carrier contracting and negotiation, and intermodal and freight brokerage to manufacturers, retailers, consumer goods, and chemical shippers along with helping shippers manage transportation and logistics needs through its proprietary Web-based TMS.