Kuehne+Nagel Acquires PharmaForward in Strategic Move to Dominate Cold Chain Logistics

ZURICH – July 2, 2025
Global freight giant Kuehne+Nagel announced Monday the acquisition of PharmaForward, a Netherlands-based specialist in temperature-controlled pharmaceutical transport, in a deal reportedly worth €560 million.

The move comes as global demand for high-compliance, cold chain logistics continues to soar, driven by biotech growth, vaccine distribution, and stricter regulations across Europe and North America.

“This acquisition allows us to offer a vertically integrated solution for pharmaceutical companies, from lab bench to bedside,” said Stefan Paul, CEO of Kuehne+Nagel, in a statement confirming the deal.

A Targeted Expansion Strategy

PharmaForward, headquartered in Eindhoven, operates a fleet of over 200 GDP-certified vehicles and manages two cold storage hubs serving the Benelux region. It also runs advanced temperature monitoring systems designed for ultra-sensitive biologics — a key factor in Kuehne+Nagel’s interest.

By acquiring the company, Kuehne+Nagel positions itself as a dominant player in Europe’s cold chain logistics market, which is projected to reach €86 billion by 2027, according to data from Frost & Sullivan.

The transaction includes not just assets and personnel, but also proprietary technology used for real-time temperature and location tracking — something Kuehne+Nagel plans to integrate into its wider pharma logistics platform.

Market Context: Pharma Logistics Heats Up

The deal is part of a broader trend where traditional freight firms are competing with niche specialists for control of value-added services. DHL, DB Schenker and UPS have all ramped up their cold chain capacities since 2023.

“Speed is no longer the only differentiator in logistics. For pharma, it’s about control, compliance and traceability — and that requires expertise,” said Dr. Nadine Holzer, a logistics consultant advising biotech startups in Europe.

The acquisition also reflects Kuehne+Nagel’s ambition to reduce reliance on general freight and expand into high-margin verticals. Its 2024 annual report showed a 17% year-over-year increase in healthcare logistics revenues.

Integration and Forward Plans

PharmaForward will retain its branding for the next 18 months, while its systems and staff are gradually integrated into Kuehne+Nagel’s HealthChain division. The Dutch management team will remain in place during the transition.

The companies have jointly announced plans to open a new biopharma logistics campus near Antwerp by Q2 2026, which will include frozen storage and clinical trial distribution capabilities.