London : PWC Logistics, one of the leading global providers of complete logistics solutions, has signed an agreement to take over Basel-based Cronat Transport Holding AG. The closing of this transaction is subject to government approvals. 

Cronat, which trades under the “Natural” brand, is focused on forwarding and logistics services in Switzerland and other European markets. The company will continue to be managed in Switzerland by existing management. There are no redundancies planned due to the transaction.

"Natural has a strong and historic presence in Switzerland and it fills out an important portion of our global network,” said Essa Al-Saleh, managing director corporate development of PWC Logistics. 

This acquisition is also a business reunion between Natural and PWC Logistics’ company GeoLogistics, which has a relationship with Cronat that stretches back to the 1920-ies.

“This is a groundbreaking development for the future of the Cronat Group,” said Peter E. Crowe, CEO of the Cronat Group.  “We're excited about becoming a part of the PWC Logistics organization and our markets are a perfect match.” 

In addition, Peter E. Crowe said he sees “significant growth opportunities for other activities, as well.”

“In PWC Logistics, we have found a committed shareholder who provides a long-term vision for Natural,” Peter E. Crowe said. “For our part we look forward to incorporating our competency in freight forwarding and logistical services into the global network of PWC Logistics."

About the Cronat Group

Cronat Transport Holding AG is a tradition-rich Basel-based logistics group, which focuses on forwarding and logistics services under its Natural brand. With wholly owned companies in Switzerland, France, Italy and the USA, as well as partners all over the world, Natural plans and coordinates the transportation of all types of goods across the globe. Natural is mainly active within the following market segments: oceanfreight, airfreight, pan European road transport; expologistics, projects & special transport, removals as well as logistics, distribution and warehousing.Natural has 600 employees. Natural is number three in the IATA ranking of forwarding companies in Switzerland, behind two international companies. More information on Natural and Cronat may be obtained at the company websites www.cronat.ch and www.natural.info.