European Cargo Services (ECS)

European Cargo Services (ECS) is a broker representing airlines for the sale of air cargo capacity to freight forwarders. ECS also undertakes two complementary activities: handling (stock and preparation of goods before shipment) and chartering.

The group became a public company in December 1998 and was listed on the 'Nouveau Marche'.

Qualis, owners of ECS since November 1999, decided to sell to Chequers Capital in October 2004. Chequers approached Equistone for a syndication of 19.6% of the shares.

VALUE CREATION

Supported by its financial shareholders, ECS has pursued its organic growth by expanding its network and strengthening its geographical coverage in Europe, Asia and in the US. The group completed an acquisition in 2006 in Africa, followed by two acquisitions/creations of offices in 2007. In July 2008, the group has made another acquisition in Scandinavia.

Today the group offers a global solution to its airline company customers as well as innovative solutions. ECS has been awarded with the “2011 General Sales Agent” award at the World Air Cargo Awards.

THE EXIT

Following two acquisitions in Italy in 2012 and favourable market trends, ECS reorganised its shareholding structure and continued with its growth strategy. Equistone sold its investment in ECS in March 2013.