Spain-based Boluda Shipping has agreed to acquire Netherlands-headquartered Samskip, including all its assets and operations, in a strategic move aimed at strengthening its short-sea shipping and multimodal logistics network across Northern Europe and West Africa.
The transaction is expected to be completed on January 1, 2027, subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions, according to a joint announcement by the companies on Wednesday.
Until the completion of the deal, both companies will continue to operate independently and in compliance with applicable regulatory requirements.
Following the acquisition, the combined business will operate a fleet of 32 vessels across 18 routes, connecting markets in 28 countries. Its integrated network will be supported by 21 maritime terminals, five rail terminals and more than 500 company-owned trucks.
The combined operations are expected to handle approximately 35,000 containers, with annual logistics throughput exceeding 750,000 TEUs.
“We have a clear vision: to lead European short-sea shipping and make our network a competitive advantage for the businesses that place their trust in us,” said Ignacio Boluda Ceballos, Executive Chairman of Boluda Shipping.
Under the proposed integration, Boluda will contribute its container shipping business, port logistics expertise and towage operations, while Samskip will bring its extensive Northern European network and multimodal transport capabilities.
The acquisition represents a significant step in Boluda’s expansion across Northern Europe, where the group has established a presence through Boluda Towage’s harbour towage services and Boluda Shipping’s maritime transport and logistics activities. The inauguration of its new offices in Rotterdam in June further underlined the strategic importance of the region to the company’s international growth plans.
Rotterdam is also a major operational hub for Samskip, making the Dutch port city a strategic centre for the development and coordination of services across the combined network.
Samskip CEO Ólafur Orri Ólafsson will continue to play a key role following the acquisition, contributing his experience and supporting the company’s teams throughout the integration process.
The companies also confirmed that the Samskip brand will remain an important part of the combined business, preserving its identity and established presence in the European logistics market.
The acquisition is expected to strengthen Boluda’s position in European short-sea shipping by combining its maritime, port and towage capabilities with Samskip’s established multimodal network and Northern European market reach.