Deal strengthens logistics capacity, supports decarbonisation goals and boosts DHL’s long-term investment in regional supply chains
DHL Supply Chain, one of the global leading contract logistics providers, has further marked its territory in South Africa after acquiring three Vital Group companies: Vital Distribution Solutions (Pty) Ltd, Staffing Logistics (Pty) Ltd and Vital Fleet (Pty) Ltd.
The acquired businesses will operate as subsidiaries of DHL Supply Chain in South Africa, retaining their established operations, customer relationships and regional networks.
This move further strengthens DHL Supply Chain’s footprint in South Africa, enhancing its logistics capabilities through increased route density, expanded fleet capacity and improved responsiveness to local market demands.
“This acquisition gives our customers, and Vital’s customers, a stronger platform from which to grow,” said Bremer Pauw, Chief Commercial Officer, Middle East and Africa, and Managing Director, Africa, DHL Supply Chain. “Vital has built a highly capable business with strong customer relationships, entrepreneurial energy and real market reach. By bringing that together with DHL’s scale, systems and broader supply chain capabilities, we are creating a platform that helps customers get their products into more outlets, more consistently, across every relevant retail tier.”
The acquisition also supports DHL Supply Chain’s transport decarbonisation agenda. Increased route density and optimised network design are expected to reduce empty mileage, improve vehicle utilisation and strengthen the case for investment in lower-emission fleets. Together with enhanced operational control, this will enable more measurable and effective decarbonisation pathways for customers over time.
The transaction forms part of DHL Group’s long-term investment strategy in Sub-Saharan Africa, announced in 2025, which includes approximately €300 million in planned investment over five years. South Africa plays a central role in this strategy as a key logistics hub and gateway for regional trade, as well as a critical platform for sustained customer growth.
This investment is expected to strengthen logistics capabilities, support job creation and reinforce South Africa’s position in regional supply chain development.