GCL expands its geographical presence and customer base

Published: Wednesday, February 15, 2023

Global Critical Logistics (GCL) has acquired UK-based Classic Automotive Relocation Services (CARS) as it looks to expand its geographical presence and customer base.

CARS is a specialist in the shipment of historic and rare vehicles by road, air, and seafreight, operates a network of specialist storage facilities and offers various services such as Carnet de Passages, registration, and various OEM testing options.

GCL said that CARS’ coverage of the European, US and Middle Eastern markets “solidifies GCL’s position as a global specialist freight forwarder for high-end and high-value automobiles” and would complement its existing brand Cosdel International Transportation.

CARS will continue to operate under its own business name as a member of the GCL group of companies.

“This acquisition extends the GCL group’s service offering and proven operational capabilities across key strategic growth markets, both in terms of customer industries and geographic presence,” said GCL president and chief executive Paul Martins.

“CARS offers highly bespoke, tailored services and their global team has an incredible passion to always exceed their customer’s expectations. All companies of the GCL group share these core values, and we are very excited as this addition will further drive meaningful value for both customers and shareholders.”

Jeremy Barker, co-founder and managing director, CARS, added: “By joining the GCL group, we gain access to additional resources that will turbocharge our service offerings to better serve our existing customers and to reach more customers across the globe.”

GCL Group has made a series of acquisitions of late to “bolster its worldwide capabilities serving the live events, fine art, classic and high-value automobiles, film, television, broadcast, sports and motor sports industries”.

In late 2021, GCL acquired Dynamic International Freight Services to enhance its global film & TV offering, and in 2022, added Spain-based forwarder Asesores de Flete.