Mauffrey, a transport and logistics company based in Vosges, has recently acquired Global Feed Ecotrans. The acquisition forms part of the group’s strategy of international expansion, given its existing operations in three other European countries. Here are some explanations and an analysis from the experts at AURIS Finance, a consultancy specialising in mergers and acquisitions.
Global Feed Ecotrans, a company specialising in the transport of agricultural products and animal feeds, is to become part of the French group Mauffrey. This strategic move will enable the Vosges-based transport group to expand its European network by establishing a presence in Spain via three strategically located sites from which Global Feed Ecotrans operates. In 2023, the Spanish specialist generated revenues of €62 million. The company has a workforce of 350 in Spain, which will join the 4,500 employees of Mauffrey.
A European leader
Since its establishment in 1964, Mauffrey has expanded its geographical reach and the scope of its services. Mauffrey currently boasts the largest transport capacity in Europe dedicated to the timber industry. The group has continued to expand over the years by acquiring family businesses with strong local roots. One such acquisition was Service tous transports (STT), a Moselle-based company acquired in May 2024. In addition to timber, the group provides bespoke solutions for the transportation of cereals, livestock feed and milk collection and distribution. The company’s current offering is structured around five sectors: environment, agriculture, wood and energy, construction and minerals, and industry and specialised distribution.
From North to South of Europe
The group initially operated solely in France but soon expanded into Luxembourg and Poland, establishing strategic hubs for the transportation of goods across Europe. In February 2024, Mauffrey acquired NettaTutto, an Italian company based near Milan. This acquisition has enabled Mauffrey to reinforce its environmental business, integrating 89 new employees and 90 engines.
A new CSR approach
Each target meets exacting specifications, particularly in regard to sustainable development. By way of illustration, Global Feed Ecotrans has already initiated its environmental transition, with its fleet comprising 300 clean vehicles, 80% of which are gas-powered tractors. In 2012, Mauffrey adopted a comparable strategy with the acquisition of its inaugural CNG (compressed natural gas) truck. This was the first of many, and four years later the group was awarded the ‘Objectif CO2’ label by ADEME, the French Environment and Energy Management Agency. In addition to the greening of its fleet, Mauffrey is diversifying its modes of transport with the creation in 2017 of MAFF (Mauffrey Affrétement Ferroviaire et Fluvial). In 2020, Mauffrey Group established its own refuelling station for its vehicles and subsequently acquired France’s first electric truck, equipped with second-generation batteries.
Our experts at your service
Mauffrey Group’s success today is built on three key principles: responsible commitment, energy transition and international expansion. The company’s particular expertise in the timber, agricultural transport and environmental sectors, coupled with a strategy of frequent acquisitions, has enabled it to establish a leading position in Europe. By making its fleet greener and embracing clean modes of transport such as river and rail, the group is able to attract customers who are increasingly aware of its environmental commitments. In the coming months, new similar partnerships may be established. The team at AURIS Finance is sector-specific, offering expertise across a range of industries. Our transport and logistics specialists will provide you with comprehensive support throughout your buyout or sale process.
