Post-merger integration as a key success factor: three questions for Alexander Tonn
By Hendrik Durst I 4 minute read
28/05/2026
In the current episode of DACHSER’s global podcast “Network Talk,” Alexander Tonn, COO Road Logistics, discusses the strategic development of DACHSER’s Road Logistics network in Europe. The focus is on integrating new acquisitions into the network, the expansion across Europe that comes with it, and the challenges of a transforming logistics industry. We asked him three key questions, with a particular focus on the integration of DACHSER & FERCAM Italia.
How has DACHSER further developed its integration approach over the years – and how do you manage the balance between growth and stability?
Integration is the key lever in any acquisition. That is why we have significantly refined and professionalized our approach in recent years. With clearly structured processes and dedicated teams, we are now able to implement integrations faster and more comprehensively.
Our ambition remains unchanged: growth must never come at the expense of quality. It is essential that day-to-day operations continue to run reliably while integration projects are managed in parallel. To achieve this, we invest specifically in additional resources and ensure a clear separation of responsibilities between operational units and project teams.
Another key success factor is communication – both internally and externally. Employees need to understand and support the changes, while at the same time we must continue to provide our customers with a consistently reliable service promise. Going forward, acquisitions will continue to play an important role in strengthening our network. However, successful integration will always be the prerequisite – this is where the real added value is created.
Going forward, acquisitions will continue to play an important role in strengthening our network.
Let’s take a closer look at the integration in Italy. What strategic role does DACHSER & FERCAM Italia play within DACHSER’s European network – and how has the integration progressed so far?
Italy is a key market in Europe and of great importance to DACHSER. We have enjoyed a partnership with FERCAM for more than 20 years, built on shared values and a similar understanding of business. The integration of the general cargo and contract logistics business is therefore a logical step in further strengthening our presence in this important economic region.
A particular challenge was the so-called carve-out, meaning the separation of the acquired business units – general cargo and contract logistics – from FERCAM’s existing organization and their establishment as an independent entity. This process was successfully completed within just four months. For further progress, however, close collaboration with the local teams is crucial. We are experiencing a high degree of openness, motivation, and a shared commitment to actively drive the integration forward.
This creates clear benefits for our customers: with the introduction of standardized products and defined standards, they gain access to a fully integrated European network with reliable transit times and transparent service quality.
You can listen to the full interview with Alexander Tonn in the seventh episode of our English-language podcast, Network Talk.
With the introduction of standardized products and defined standards, our customers gain access to a fully integrated European network.
What are your priorities for DACHSER & FERCAM Italia this year – and how are the other integration projects at DACHSER progressing?
A key focus at DACHSER & FERCAM Italia is currently the rollout of our IT systems. The implementation of standardized transport and warehouse management systems forms the foundation for seamless processes and consistently high quality throughout the network. At the same time, we are strengthening the international positioning of the Italian business. While the domestic market remains important, the main focus is on expanding export flows to other European markets, as well as to regions such as North Africa and Turkey.
At the same time, further integrations are underway across our network. Companies such as Müller Fresh Food Logistics – now already operating as Dachser Food Logistics Netherlands – as well as Frigoscandia and Brummer, have been or are being gradually integrated into our existing structures. In doing so, we analyze processes, adjust workflows, and progressively align systems. The goal is to consistently drive integration across all units and create an even more closely interconnected network.
To learn more about the development of DACHSER’s European Road Logistics network and the integration of acquisitions, listen to the latest episode of “Network Talk” with Alexander Tonn. The full episode is available here and on all major podcast platforms.
