Kent’s ChannelPorts acquired by Eurotunnel operator Getlink

Customs intermediary ChannelPorts has been acquired by Eurotunnel operator Getlink.

Established in 1974 and based in Folkestone, Kent, ChannelPorts has 44 employees and posted revenues of around £10 million last year.

The company carries out the customs formalities that have become compulsory since Brexit on behalf of its hauliers, logistics and forwarding customers.

It also owns Stop24, a secure truck park facility and service area on the M20 motorway near the Channel Tunnel.

Getlink says the deal will simplify cross-Channel trade, with ChannelPorts’ various services set to be integrated into its digital platform Sherpass.

Yann Leriche, CEO of Getlink, said: “Administrative procedures involved in crossing the border post-Brexit have made the business of cross-Channel hauliers more complex.

“Our aim is to accompany our freight customers by developing a comprehensive range of services to help them with customs clearance.

“The acquisition of ChannelPorts strengthens the group’s portfolio of smart border solutions.

“We’re delighted to welcome the ChannelPorts teams, who over the past years have proved their ability to offer customers simple and high value-added services.”