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Gaston Schul has advanced its European growth strategy through two acquisitions and the expansion of its activities in two additional countries. With the acquisition of Parodi Forwarding S.r.l. in Italy and Markart & Schmid Zollservice OG in Austria, as well as an increased presence in Poland and France, the Dutch company is expanding its network to a total of 13 European countries. These steps solidify Gaston Schul’s position as an independent partner in customs and trade in Europe.
The acquisitions and expansion are part of Gaston Schul’s strategic objective to operate as a leading partner in the customs and trade sector in Europe. The company combines extensive customs knowledge, modern technology, and a comprehensive service portfolio within a connected network. Customers are increasingly seeking a single customs and trade partner that can offer standardized, scalable, and digitally integrated solutions across multiple countries. Gaston Schul aims to replace fragmented customs processes with a unified, controlled operation in Europe.
Expansion of presence in Europe
The acquisitions in Italy and Austria, along with the expanded activities in Poland and France, are significant steps toward implementing the corporate strategy. Gaston Schul aims to present itself as a European company with uniform quality standards, a shared operational philosophy, and a consistent customer experience.
The European customs landscape is currently being reshaped by AI, digitization, and the upcoming EU customs reform. Gaston Schul is responding to these developments with a comprehensive offering: in-depth customs knowledge, an independent customs control tower that coordinates customs flows across multiple countries, and technologies that link data across all markets, providing customers with complete transparency.
Sander van Lent, CEO of the Gaston Schul Group, stated:
“Our strategy remains unchanged. However, developments in AI, digitization, and EU customs reform require acceleration. With our growing European presence, strong expertise, and digital approach, we are well positioned for the next phase of growth.”
Details on the acquisitions and expansions
The acquisition of Parodi Forwarding S.r.l. provides Gaston Schul with immediate access to the Italian market, supported by an experienced team and existing customs knowledge. The takeover of Markart & Schmid Zollservice OG expands the company’s DACH coverage and brings in-depth local customs knowledge in Austria that is immediately available and will be integrated with existing activities in Germany and Switzerland.
In Poland, the existing presence in Łódź is being expanded, deepening integration into Central and Eastern Europe, particularly for sea and rail transport between the EU, the United Kingdom, and eastern markets. In France, the presence in St. Louis is being strengthened to serve French shippers and logistics providers with a connected service portfolio available throughout Europe.
As the European customs industry increasingly consolidates under the influence of private equity and large logistics groups, the company, founded in 1845, has reaffirmed its independence. This position is seen as a structural advantage for customers seeking long-term continuity and a partner without competing commercial interests.
