The global logistics provider, Scan Global Logistics (SGL), has secured its position in Portugal, an important gateway to South America and Africa, with the purchase of FLS (Freight and Logistics Solutions). With the acquisition, the company also strengthened its position within the government and defence sector. 

FLS is a defence and military logistics expert in Portugal. it joins Sand Road Freight in Denmark, ETS Transport & Logistics, ETS Fulfillment in Germany and Belglobe in Switzerland, companies that SGL has acquired in the last half year.

SGL says more acquisitions can be expected in the coming months. Moreover, the global forwarder also emphasises its commitment to organic growth by recently opening new offices in Romania, Kenya, South Africa and France.

Extending the Defence logistics capabilities

In 2021, SGL won a  seven-year contract with the Danish Military of Defence. The agreement encompasses civil transport related to the Danish Defense exercises and international missions, including transport solutions for the Arctic Command. Notably, several transports for the US military and NATO have been successfully conducted under this agreement.

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FLS holds national and NATO accreditations imperative for the defence business and has already worked closely with SGL teams to successfully execute various regional projects.

Thomas Lyck, Executive Vice President of Government & Defence at SGL, says, “FLS has built strong relations with the Portuguese Ministry of Defence, is highly engaged with the US Foreign Military Sales, and has developed a unique IT solution tailored to these customers’ specific demands. Coupled with our transport capabilities and global government and defence competence centres throughout the world, it will reinforce the comprehensive support, expertise, and value-adding solutions we provide customers within the industry.”

Match in purpose-driven customer approach

Founded in 2014, FLS has offices in Porto, two in Lisbon and Funchal, Madeira. The company relies on a purpose-driven, entrepreneurial customer and solution-driven approach perfectly aligned with SGL’s culture and virtues.

Founder and CEO at FLS, António Beirão, elaborates, ‘We see eye to eye on significant matters and share a common business approach of building close customer relations on trust, transparency, and industry know-how. Consequently, SGL makes an ideal future home for our valued customers and employees. I look forward to continuing to nurture these strong relationships and providing tailor-made and effective solutions to our customers.”

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In addition to FLS’ extensive network in defence and military logistics, they possess broad know-how and connections in Africa, particularly in Angola, Cabo Verde and Mozambique. FLS’ ongoing activities will provide a valuable contribution to SGL’s engagement in the region and build a foundation for future expansion in Africa.

Lars Syberg, CEO EMEA ex. Nordics at SGL finishes, “Completing our footprint on the Iberic Peninsula and improving our strong foothold in Africa is a key step in SGL’s global coverage strategy and in providing extended customer offerings between Europe and the African continent. We look forward to working with FLS and providing our customers with the benefits of merging our competencies, networks and solutions.”