Deutsche Bahn (DB) has finalised the sale of its logistics subsidiary DB Schenker to Danish transport and logistics group DSV for an enterprise value of €14.3 billion (approximately AUD 23.6 billion), marking the largest corporate transaction in DB’s history.
The deal, completed on 30 April 2025, followed an open, transparent and non-discriminatory sale process that began in December 2023. DB selected DSV’s bid as the most economically advantageous offer.
“With the completion of the acquisition of Schenker, we have reached a milestone in the history of DSV. We have been looking forward to completing the transaction and I am excited to welcome our new colleagues to the DSV organisation,” says Jens H. Lund, Group CEO, DSV.
“With this acquisition, we become a world-leading player in global transport and logistics, at a time when global supply chains are more in focus than ever before, and our customers need a reliable and agile global network of services and products. By combining the two companies we will create a unique flexible platform for long-term financial growth to the benefit of our customers, employees, shareholders and other stakeholders.”
With the divestment, Deutsche Bahn aims to refocus on its core rail transport business and significantly reduce its debt. The proceeds from the sale will be used primarily to lower DB’s financial liabilities.
The transaction represents a major expansion for DSV, bolstering its position as one of the world’s leading logistics companies. By integrating DB Schenker’s global operations, DSV expects to enhance its service offering and extend its international reach.
According to the companies, the acquisition signifies a strategic realignment: DB will concentrate on strengthening its domestic and European rail services, while DSV accelerates its global logistics ambitions.
“We are happy to complete this important milestone, and we are looking forward to joining forces with DSV. The dialogue throughout the last months has been very positive and we are very excited about the prospects of the combined business,” says Jochen Thewes, CEO, Schenker.
“DSV and Schenker are a strong match with many similarities in business models and services, shared values and high operational standards, and we look forward to getting to work.”
.png){kind=logo}
