DHL Supply Chain is strengthening its life sciences and healthcare (LSHC) capabilities by agreeing to acquire SDS Rx, a provider of final-mile delivery and specialized healthcare transportation for long-term care and specialty pharmacies, radiopharmacies and health system networks.
The strategic acquisition will further expand DHL's healthcare logistics portfolio under DHL Health Logistics, enhancing the company's ability to deliver integrated, time-critical solutions across every stage of the LSHC supply chain.
DHL noted that SDS Rx will add final-mile logistics services to its healthcare transportation network, processing specialized healthcare deliveries from more than 200 locations across the U.S. The acquisition also expands DHL's same-day and expedited delivery capabilities for life sciences and healthcare customers.
"The life sciences and healthcare sector is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 11% through 2030. Specialty pharmacy already accounts for approximately 50% of total prescription drug spending in the U.S., and the number of patients served by specialty pharmacies grew by 12% between 2018 and 2021," said Mark Kunar, CEO of DHL Supply Chain North America. "The increasing demand for specialty pharma and healthcare solutions presents significant opportunities for DHL to leverage its scale, expertise, and commitment to operational excellence."
"With this acquisition, we are expanding our healthcare logistics capabilities, attracting a new segment of healthcare customers, and reinforcing our position as a trusted partner in building resilient and connected healthcare supply chains," he added.
Drew Kronick, founder, CEO & managing partner of SDS Rx said, "As the demand for last-mile delivery in healthcare continues to grow, we understand the importance of aligning with a partner who shares our patient-first commitment."
"Partnering with DHL represents a meaningful step forward, combining our strengths to improve the precision, reliability, and speed of delivery to patients most in need."
Second healthcare acquisition of DHL
DHL noted that this will be its second healthcare acquisition for DHL Supply Chain in 2025, following its purchase of CryoPDP, a specialty courier focused on clinical trials, biopharmaceuticals as well as cell and gene therapies, earlier this year.
Together, these acquisitions mark a significant milestone for DHL Group and its strategic growth agenda under Strategy 2030, particularly in expanding its logistics offerings in the Life Sciences and Healthcare sector.
DHL said these strengthen its capabilities across critical areas of the healthcare supply chain - from pharmaceuticals and consumer health to animal health and medical technology - all under the umbrella of DHL Health Logistics.
"With enhanced expertise in cold chain management and specialty pharma logistics, DHL will be even better positioned to meet the complex needs of the healthcare industry and support further targeted growth," the logistics giant added.
DHL Supply Chain noted that it is committed to ensuring a seamless transition for customers and associates, with all employees becoming part of the DHL Supply Chain family.
SDS Rx operations will be integrated into DHL Supply Chain North America's Life Science & Healthcare business, and all teams will continue to operate under local leadership.
DHL said the closing of the acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals.
