Award-winning County Cork based transport and logistics specialist, South Coast Logistics has been acquired by global integrated logistics and port operations company, Katoen Natie.
South Coast Logistics has served the Irish market for 50 years under the stewardship of the O’Flynn family. Founded by the late Colman O’Flynn in 1975, the business progressed further into the next generation with his sons John, Richie and Pat.
The Fermoy company has grown from strength to strength into one of Irelands leading logistics solutions specialists serving the Pharma, Petrochemical and Food Manufacturing industries.
As the business enters its next phase, including the development of the Dublin Inland Port Terminal, this acquisition assures future growth in the coming years.
Katoen Natie, a global leader in integrated logistics, headquartered in Antwerp, Belgium with operations in over 35 countries, provides tailored supply chain solutions across sectors such as petrochemicals, consumer goods, automotive, and specialty chemicals. Known for its innovation, asset-based approach, and long-term partnerships, Katoen Natie combines logistics, engineering, and data management to deliver efficient and sustainable services to clients on a global scale.
This agreement (which is subject to CCPC approval) represents a major milestone will enable the continued expansion of South Coast’s services under the highly respected Katoen Natie brand and leadership.
South Coast will be able to align with Katoen Natie’s global network and expertise to facilitate its future growth. The existing management team of South Coast will remain in place running the business, with the added opportunity to leverage the depth of experience and resources that are offered by Katoen Natie.
Katoen Natie plans to expand its presence in Ireland. This strategic partnership allows Katoen Natie to leverage South Coast Logistics’ strong market reputation and extensive expertise, further solidifying its logistics footprint on the Island. Katoen Natie and South Coast Logistics look forward to continued growth in the Irish market and providing continued excellence in the logistics space.
“As we move from one family company to another, our customers will always remain at the heart of everything we do. On entering this exciting new chapter our commitment to serving clients with excellence remains unchanged,” said Richie Flynn, Managing Director, South Coast Logisitics (pictured).
“The current management team will continue to lead day-to-day operations, ensuring continuity and stability throughout this transition and into the future. Our focus on putting customer needs first is unwavering. We are confident that this sale will significantly enhance our capabilities and enable us to deliver even greater value and service. I am honoured to continue as Managing Director as we enter this exciting new chapter, building on 50 years of family heritage while driving a bold and ambitious future.”
Patrik Naenen, Business Unit Director Katoen Natie, said: “We are delighted to welcome South Coast Logistics into the Katoen Natie family. This acquisition represents an important step in strengthening our footprint in Ireland .For us, this partnership is not only about growth, but also about shared values. Like South Coast, we believe in accountability, integrity, innovation, and collaboration as the foundation of long-term success. We therefore wished to set up this deal only with the full support of the South Coast management team, who will continue to lead the company into the future.
We look to invest further in infrastructure such as the Dublin Inland Port Terminal, and to ensure continuity and value for customers and employees alike. Together, we are confident that we can accelerate growth, bring added resources and expertise to the Irish market, and deliver sustainable logistics solutions for decades to come.
