M&A Transaction•

Fortidia Acquires Majority Stake in SI Express

BC Partners-backed Fortidia expands its logistics reach by acquiring a controlling interest in SI Express, a leader in time-critical global transport solutions.

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Alvaro de la Maza

Partner at Aninver

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Key Takeaways

  • Fortidia acquired SI Express srl, Harcos srl, Red-Blacks srl.
  • Sector: Industrials, Transport Infrastructure & Services (traditional).
  • Geography: Italy.

Analysis

Fortidia, the global logistics and e-commerce services platform operating under the MBE Worldwide umbrella and soon to be controlled by BC Partners, has secured a controlling stake in SI Express srl. This strategic acquisition marks a significant expansion for Fortidia in the time-critical transport solutions sector.

The transaction sees Fortidia acquire a majority share from existing stakeholders, including the investment vehicle Harcos srl and the founding entrepreneurial families. Harcos srl, which initially invested in SI Express in 2022, is set to exit its position entirely by the close of the 2026 fiscal year. The founding families will retain a minority interest, with put and call options structured for longer-term maturities.

SI Express, headquartered in Nichelino, Turin, is a recognized specialist in urgent B2B global shipping. The company excels in time-critical road freight, offering integrated air and sea transport, customs assistance, and round-the-clock operational support. Leveraging an extensive network of carriers and logistics partners, SI Express manages complex, high-urgency shipments, with a particular focus on the EMEA region, the Balkans, North and South America, Mexico, and China. The company projects robust financial performance, anticipating approximately €30 million in revenue and €5 million in EBITDA for 2026.

This move aligns with broader industry trends in the logistics sector, which is experiencing sustained demand for specialized, rapid delivery services, particularly driven by e-commerce growth and the need for just-in-time supply chains. The global logistics market is projected to continue its upward trajectory, with specialized segments like time-critical freight offering significant growth potential.

Giovanni Palese, co-founder of SI Express, expressed enthusiasm for the integration, stating, “Joining Fortidia provides a powerful catalyst for our growth, enabling us to accelerate development while steadfastly preserving the client-centric approach and entrepreneurial spirit that have defined us for over 25 years.” This sentiment underscores the importance of maintaining operational agility and customer focus during the transition.

Harcos srl, co-founded by Omar Uger Agiami and Marco Costaguta, has been instrumental in supporting SI Express’s business development, governance, and operational enhancements since its 2022 investment. Their involvement has reportedly strengthened the company’s efficiency and profitability, positioning it for this next phase of expansion under Fortidia’s ownership. The advisory team for the sellers included Giovannelli e Associati for M&A and corporate matters, Fineurop Soditic and Scouting Capital Advisors as financial advisors, and Andersen for accounting due diligence, including Quality of Earnings and Debt assessments.