AIT Worldwide Logistics, a top 30 freight forwarder in the United States, has sold a majority stake to Greenbriar Equity Group in a major expansion deal. The company's new owner is committed to fueling its aggressive growth strategy through organic means and strategic acquisitions. This move comes as AIT Worldwide continues to expand its global footprint, with a focus on delivering customized supply chain solutions to customers worldwide.
The deal allows The Jordan Company, L.P., a middle-market financial firm with a background in transportation and logistics investments, to cash in on its 2021 acquisition of AIT Worldwide from another investment firm. This marks the second major investment by The Jordan Company in the logistics sector, following its previous acquisition of AIT Worldwide. The company's executive team will retain a stake in the company, ensuring continuity and stability.
AIT Worldwide has dramatically expanded its global presence, acquiring 14 businesses and increasing gross revenue by more than 300% under TJC's ownership. The company has also made significant acquisitions in recent years, including the purchase of Miami-based forwarder GSDMIA Inc. and Krupp Trucking, a small St. Louis-based forwarder specializing in high-value goods transport. These investments have enabled AIT Worldwide to establish itself as a major player in the global logistics market.
AIT is currently ranked as the 27th largest U.S.-based logistics provider based on 2024 gross revenue of $2.6 billion, according to Armstrong & Associates. The company's growth has been driven by its ability to deliver customized supply chain solutions and its commitment to operational excellence. With this new investment, AIT Worldwide is poised for further expansion and growth in the coming years.
The acquisition represents one of the largest private acquisitions ever in the global freight forwarding sector, with terms not disclosed. This move underscores the growing importance of private equity firms in transportation and logistics investments, as they seek to capitalize on the sector's growth potential. The deal is expected to be completed before the fourth quarter, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.
Greenbriar Equity, which manages over $15 billion in committed capital, has a proven track record of investing in transportation and logistics companies. Its current portfolio includes Alliance Ground International, an airport services and cargo handling company; eShipping, a provider of managed transportation and supply chain technology solutions; OnTrac, a super-regional parcel delivery company; and Wineshipping, a temperature-controlled logistics and fulfillment provider serving the direct-to-consumer wine market.
Greenbriar Managing Director Michael Wang stated that AIT has built an exceptional global platform defined by strong leadership, operational excellence, and a deeply embedded service culture. The firm believes that AIT is uniquely positioned to meet increasing demand for integrated logistics solutions across technology, life sciences, and other specialized sectors. With Greenbriar's support, AIT Worldwide is poised to capitalize on this growth potential.
The acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for AIT Worldwide Logistics as it looks to expand its global footprint and deliver customized supply chain solutions to customers worldwide. With the backing of Greenbriar Equity Group, the company is well-positioned to navigate the evolving landscape of global logistics and meet the growing demands of its customers.
As the logistics sector continues to evolve in complexity, companies like AIT Worldwide Logistics are well-positioned to capitalize on this growth potential. The acquisition by Greenbriar Equity Group highlights the importance of private equity firms in transportation and logistics investments, as they seek to drive growth and innovation in the sector.
The acquisition by Greenbriar Equity Group marks a significant milestone for the global logistics sector, highlighting the growing importance of private equity firms in transportation and logistics investments.
