DHL Supply Chain has agreed to the acquisition of logistics and transport operator Open Market, adding significant warehousing, transport and temperature-controlled capabilities to its network in Colombia.
The deal will bring 21 warehouses covering a combined 120,000m², 13 cross-docking platforms and an owned transport fleet into DHL’s Colombian operation. Around 4,100 Open Market employees will also join DHL Supply Chain.
The acquisition is part of DHL Group’s Strategy 2030 and is intended to strengthen its presence in Latin America, with a particular focus on life sciences, healthcare and other specialised supply chains.
Hendrik Venter, CEO of DHL Supply Chain, said:
“This step reflects our strategic focus on strengthening our capabilities in regions and sectors that show sustained, long-term growth. By expanding our presence here and integrating Open Market’s expertise, particularly in managing complex supply chains for pharmaceuticals, medical products and personal care, we further advance our global DHL Health Logistics capabilities.”
Adding specialist capabilities
Open Market brings capabilities spanning transportation, packaging and temperature-controlled operations, alongside its warehousing and cross-docking network.
The business serves sectors including life sciences and healthcare, consumer goods, engineering and manufacturing. DHL says the combination will strengthen its ability to manage more specialised supply chains across Colombia and the wider Latin American region.
Agustín Croche, CEO Latin America at DHL Supply Chain, added:
“Open Market’s experience strongly complements our existing offering in Latin America. Their transport network with cross-docks and temperature-controlled warehouses, combined with its experience supporting dynamic sectors such as life sciences and healthcare, consumer, and engineering and manufacturing enhances the quality and reliability of the services we provide.”
DHL has also recently expanded its Constellation Distribution Center in Cota, near Bogotá, adding further capacity for specialised supply chains.
Open Market employees join DHL
The acquisition will also bring Open Market’s workforce into DHL Supply Chain.
“At DHL Supply Chain, people are central to our success,” said Robinson Vasquez, CEO of DHL Supply Chain Colombia. “By welcoming Open Market’s employees into our organisation, we gain colleagues with extensive experience, deep market knowledge and strong customer relationships.”
The transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions.
Open Market’s chairman Anibal Wadih said the sale forms part of the company’s strategy to focus investment and capabilities on Brazil, adding that the priority is to maintain continuity and service quality during the transition.
The deal follows DHL’s recent expansion elsewhere in Latin America, including its acquisition of Aero Cargas in Uruguay, as the group continues to build its regional logistics network.
