CMA CGM Acquires Fattal Group in MENA Supply Chain Push

French shipping and logistics group CMA CGM has agreed to acquire 100% of Lebanese distributor Fattal Group, marking a significant step in its expansion into end-to-end supply chain services.

Upon announcement, the transaction remained subject to regulatory approvals and is expected to complete in the third quarter of 2026.

CMA CGM Chairman and CEO, Rodolphe Saade, positioned the deal as a strategic move to strengthen the company’s downstream capabilities.

Rodolphe says: “This acquisition represents a key milestone in our ambition to become a global leader in end-to-end logistics and supply chain solutions.

“By integrating Fattal’s strong distribution platform, we are expanding our capabilities downstream, closer to end markets and consumers.

“Together, we will leverage our combined strengths to drive growth, deepen our presence in fast-growing MENA markets, and deliver greater value to our customers and partners.

“This transaction also reflects our continued confidence in Lebanon and our commitment to supporting its long-term development.”

Talks between the two companies began in late 2025, according to CMA CGM’s regional leadership.

“Discussions to acquire the group began in September 2025,” Joe Dakkak, Managing Director of CMA CGM in Lebanon and the Levant, told L’Orient-Le Jour. “But the agreement was officially signed last week.”

The financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed, with Dakkak confirming the value remains confidential.

Founded in 1897, Fattal Group has built a long-standing presence in distribution across the Middle East and North Africa.

Its operations span fast-moving consumer goods and consumer electronics, pharmaceuticals and healthcare, and perfumes, makeup and cosmetics.

Caroline Fattal, Chairwoman of the Fattal Group, highlighted the legacy of the business and the rationale behind the decision to sell.

Caroline says: “After 130 years of continued stewardship, the Fattal shareholders have made the decision to entrust the future of the Fattal Group to CMA CGM Group as they are confident that it will continue to build on the success of the Group and stay true to its mission to add value and ensure the long-term strength and success of the Group, its people, its suppliers and the community it serves."

Headquartered in Marseille, CMA CGM is the world’s third-largest shipping company. The group operates a fleet of more than 650 vessels and manages 60 port terminals across 30 countries.

In recent years, CMA CGM has accelerated its diversification strategy, expanding its logistics footprint and investing in new sectors including media.

The group has also increased its presence in Lebanon through a series of investments.

These include the acquisition of nut and confectionery company Rifai in 2021 and Lebanese chocolatier Souchet in 2023. CMA CGM also operates key container terminals at the ports of Beirut and Tripoli.

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The planned acquisition of Fattal Group further strengthens CMA CGM’s position in the MENA region, extending its reach from maritime logistics into distribution and last-mile supply chain services.