Nippon Express: Scaling Logistics with Metro Supply Chain

Nippon Express has agreed to acquire Metro Supply Chain as it strengthens its contract logistics footprint across North America and the UK.

The deal, valued at up to C$2.2bn (US$1.6bn), reflects the continuing consolidation of the global 3PL market as customers demand greater scale, resilience and end to end capability.

Metro has grown over more than five decades from a single warehouse in Montréal into what the company describes as “a leading supply chain solutions provider operating across Canada, the US and the UK, built on strong customer relationships, operational capabilities, and a people-focused culture”.

Today, the business employs approximately 9,000 team members operating more than 22.5 million square feet across 190 sites, underlining the network density that now transfers into the NX Group.

Deepening presence in Canada, US and UK

Chiko Nanji, Founder and Group Chairman of Metro Supply Chain and Chairman of LDC, says: “Metro exemplifies that approach, earning the trust of its people, customers and partners through a focus on relationships, operational excellence and culture.

"This transaction recognises the strength of what has been built and positions the company for its next phase of growth with a global partner that shares our values.

"With greater resources, and a global network, Metro is well positioned to deepen its presence in Canada, the US and the UK and expand into new markets.”

For supply chain leaders, stability will be critical. Chris Fenton, Group President and CEO of Metro Supply Chain, says “Our leadership remains in place, and our focus continues to be on delivering for our customers.

“For our customers, this means continuity, with the same teams, no changes to service or existing agreements and, over time, the benefit of increased scale and investment.”

Strong strategic fit

NX Group has committed to maintaining Metro’s management team and headquarters in Montréal.

Satoshi Otsuji, Senior Managing Executive Officer of Nippon Express Holdings, says: “Metro Supply Chain represents a strong strategic fit for our group. Its capabilities, customer relationships and market position in North America complement our global network and long-term growth strategy.

"We look forward to supporting Metro Supply Chain’s continued development while respecting its local leadership and strengths.”

For the wider sector, the transaction shows a shift towards integrated contract logistics models. Scale, systems capability and regional depth are increasingly decisive factors for shippers reassessing their supply chain partners in a volatile global market.