FREEDOM LOGISTICS
CASE STUDY – FREEDOM LOGISTICS
Freedom logistics was established in 2007 out of the remains of a Private Equity transaction that did not sit comfortably with the Directors at that time. Focussed on the US and Far East, the business provided a personal, well organised freight forwarding service that was import & export driven and targetted higher value/margin products. Their expertise covers the gamut of freight transportation including air, sea, road, courier, and warehousing facilities.
THE CHALLENGE
By becoming the outsourced Freight Management department of their customers, the business was able to expand solidly by providing a good mix of added value services and removing the daily stress of dealing with transportation complexities. But could they grow the company to a sufficient size and value to secure a lucrative exit for the owners with this organic growth strategy?
THE SOLUTION
Ridgetown worked with the management to put together an expansion and exit strategy that involved increasing turnover 8-10 times its current size including a few carefully targeted acquisitions particularly in the Air freight sector that would help achieve their aims. The plan was detailed, professionally researched and financially viable and functioned as the blueprint for the directors’ ambitions over the 5-year period.
OUR ACHIEVEMENTS
Along the way, Ridgetown supported Freedom with fund raising when required and finding the key acquisitions that would help expand the business to the required size and value. Several targets were rejected but eventually the right acquisition came along and was purchased for a realistic price- a Heathrow Airfreight provider. The business was integrated and expanded such that owners were able recently to sell to a larger competitor and secure their desired exit. A case of a plan coming together satisfactorily.
“Ridgetown started collaborating with us at a pivotal time in our business life. They provided sound strategic knowledge, financial expertise, and experience to guide us successfully through uncertain times. Their input was fundamental to our successful outcome”