Hillebrand acquires Northeastern U.S. beverage specialist

HOUSTON, TX – Hillebrand has acquired Royal Logistics and Royal Service Transport (Royal), a warehouse and transportation beverage provider based in Baltimore, Maryland.

The acquisition of Royal is part of Hillebrand’s business expansion plan, with storage, cross-docking, distribution, drayage and other value-added services now more accessible in the mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions.

“The acquisition of Royal confirms our ambition to grow our business and extend our service portfolio in key markets such as the U.S. Bringing Royal and its services under the Hillebrand name and into our network strengthens our position and offering as a one-stop logistics partner,” said Cees van Gent, CEO and chairman of the executive board.

Since 2003, Royal has been a Hillebrand partner, providing services to its recently rebranded Keg & Assets division formally known as Satellite Logistics Group, Inc.  This acquisition has allowed Hillebrand to expand its warehouse facilities and distribution capabilities. 

“By joining Hillebrand we now have the means to provide our employees with opportunities to grow in an industry we are all very passionate about serving,” said Sonny Sponaugle, co-founder of Royal.

Royal Founders Sonny and Janet Sponaugle will remain on board, which will support the transition of the business, its customers, employees and vendors.

Hillebrand was founded in 1844 in Mainz, Germany. The company specializes in forwarding, transport and logistics of wine, spirits, beer and other products that require special care.

In October 2019, the company rebranded. Formerly JF Hillebrand, it relaunched as Hillebrand, unifying previously acquired companies Trans Ocean Bulk Logistics and Satellite Logistics Group (SLG) into one core brand for a stronger identity.