Group-GTS accelerates growth strategy in Hamburg
Consistency is Group-GTS’ core value. To achieve consistent and sustainable growth, the company successfully adheres to an ambitious multi-year-strategy. Ben Geybels, CEO and Roel Smets, COO, talk about Group-GTS’ most recent acquisition in Hamburg and their ambitions for expanding their operations in a futureproof manner.
Group-GTS Acquires Spedition Oste to Extend Network
Ben Geybels, CEO, and third generation of leadership, explains that Group-GTS has grown into a prominent player in the transport and logistics industry, since his grandparents started with the purchase of a single truck in the 1950s. “As advocates of organic growth and strategic acquisitions, we are committed to investing in our people and maintaining our family-oriented culture. Striking a balance between the business side and the family narrative is crucial for us”, says Geybels.
The acquisition of Spedition Oste (Hamburg), a company known for its strong reputation, has further strengthened our position. In addition to improving our container specialisation it also aligns with our long-term plan for continued development. This strategic move places us in a unique position within the port belt of Antwerp, Rotterdam, Hamburg and Gdynia, offering strategic connections to the hinterland. Throughout the process, we remain mindful of the local identity while leveraging shared services empowered by Group-GTS. Together, we forge a synergistic relationship that aligns perfectly with Group-GTS’ strategic growth path. “The acquisition represents a win-win for both parties. We are very much looking forward to welcoming all employees to the Group-GTS family and building the future together,” affirms Geybels, expressing his enthusiasm for the collaboration ahead. Jan-Hein Martens, CEO of Spedition Oste agrees: “From the very outset, we felt a strong connection between both owners. The alignment of our values and culture has been affirmed throughout the initial six months of our partnership”.
Commitment to Sustainable Growth and Future development
“In addition to growth and profitability, sustainability is very much at the centre of our business approach. We have a clear vision of our position as a company and adhere to a multi-year strategic plan. Our emphasis on sustainable growth ensures that we create a lasting impact while at the same time meeting the needs of our clients”, says Smets.
“Following the challenging market conditions, the past five years have not been easy. However, due to our solid strategy we have been able overcome those hurdles and are now geared up for sustainable growth over the next decade”, Smets adds. One of the key innovations currently in the pipeline is Project Hallebrug, a site spanning an impressive 100,000 square meters land surface. The Limburg Gateway is uniquely connected to land, water, and air routes. Hallebrug will boast a climate neutral approach and will feature a multimodal platform offering logistics solutions and on-site support. Hallebrug is built to suit our customers’ unique needs and connects the seaports with land solutions”, Smets continues. “Thanks to the investments and dedication of our team, the progress remains on schedule with an estimated realisation by 2025”.
Strategy isn’t the only consideration in Group-GTS’ expansion plan. “The ultimate objective is continuity”, says Geybels. “I want to hand over the company to the next generation in an improved state compared to when I assumed leadership. To achieve this, we actively seek out and invest in a diverse pool of talent, engaging them fully in our day-to-day operations. We firmly believe in seizing opportunities and place great emphasis on mindset rather than just skills. In line with our expanding international operations, we recognise the significance of broadening our presence in these markets. Therefore, we are currently attracting senior sales positions in Germany and Poland. This proactive approach aligns with our long-term goals”.
Unlocking the Benefits of a Comprehensive Multi-Year Strategy
The company that is still family-run, has become a respected international partner for container and FTL transport, and warehousing. “More than a logistics partner, we are transport architects. Our customers are our number one priority, and we are committed to providing a top-notch service. We offer a comprehensive 360° approach, which includes a broad array of services ranging from logistics, and 4PL, to trucking and warehousing. With our international reach, we connect the seaports with our hinterland solutions”, Geybels explains. Group-GTS boasts the benefits of a family-run enterprise within a well-crafted organisational structure. “It’s a place where everyone knows each other, and employees, partners, and suppliers are considered as valuable collaborators. Due to the short chain of command, the decision-making processes is highly streamlined and efficient, allowing us to be agile and respond quickly to market conditions and customer requests”.