Hellmann Worldwide Logistics announced that it is taking over its long-standing partner Hellmann Worldwide Logistics S.p.A. (Hellmann Italy), continuing its expansion strategy in the European market.

The Milan-based company, which employs approximately 70 people at six locations, has been providing Hellmann Worldwide Logistics with all its sea- and airfreight services in Italy since it was founded in 2006.  

"With this acquisition, Hellmann is expanding into an important European logistics market and not only completing its network in the central Alpine region but also strengthening its presence in the Mediterranean region, which is strategically important for global sea freight operations," it said in the announcement.

It added that going forward, Hellmann will expand its range of services through its own national company in Italy, thus offering its Italian and international customers an even more comprehensive service.

The operational business in Italy will continue to be managed by Daniela Coppola, who, as a long-standing and experienced managing director of Hellmann Italy, will ensure a seamless continuation of all activities.

"The organic integration of Hellmann Italy into the global Hellmann network will enable us to exploit the potential of the Italian market and tap into new market segments," said Jens Tarnowski, Regional CEO of West Europe, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics.

Daniela Coppola, managing director of Hellmann Italy, noted that the takeover is an "important strategic step" for the companies.

"We are pleased that we are now an integral part of the global Hellmann network. After years of working together as partners, the integration is an important strategic step towards strengthening Hellmann Italy in the long term and enabling us to operate on an even more global scale," Coppola said.

"The integration will also enable us to offer our customers an even more attractive product range," she added.