Mergers and acquisitions are accelerating across Europe's transport and logistics sector as operators seek scale, capability, and resilience in response to decarbonisation requirements, regulatory pressure, and intensifying competition, according to a new report by global M&A consultancy network IMAP.

Consultancy.eu reported that industry pressures are driving significant investment in fleet renewal, automation, digital platforms, and value-added services, with operators demonstrating stronger network density and operational excellence increasingly attracting a competitive premium.

The global ocean freight sector is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.4% to 2031, expanding from $632 billion (approximately €583 billion) in 2026 to $824 billion (approximately €760 billion) by 2031.

The warehousing logistics market was valued at $1.17 trillion (approximately €1.08 trillion) last year and is forecast to reach $1.6 trillion (approximately €1.48 trillion) by 2029, with up to 40% of that growth driven by B2C e-commerce.

IMAP highlights several notable recent transactions, including MML, an international private equity investor, acquiring majority control of Virginia, a leading transport and logistics provider in Ireland.

Total European deal volumes rose from 479 transactions in 2023 to 515 in 2024, before moderating to 508 in 2025, remaining well above pre-pandemic averages.

IMAP noted that M&A is expected to "remain active and structurally supported, albeit more selective than during the 2021–2022 peak," with Europe continuing to represent a significant share of global logistics transactions despite elevated interest rates and geopolitical uncertainty.

High-quality and specialised assets continue to command premiums, particularly those aligned with AI adoption, sustainability, and integrated service models.

Access the full IMAP report on European transport and logistics dealmaking trends.