Getlink Bolsters Customs Services with Acquisition of A.S.A and BIMS

Getlink, the operator of the Channel Tunnel, has strengthened its position in the customs services market between Europe and the United Kingdom with the acquisition of Associated Shipping Agencies (A.S.A) and its subsidiary Boulogne International Maritime Services (BIMS). This strategic move will enable Getlink to offer a comprehensive range of services, further simplifying cross-Channel trade and facilitating the exchange of goods between continental Europe and the United Kingdom.



A.S.A and BIMS, both leading players in the customs services sector, carry out customs and sanitary formalities on behalf of their clients, including hauliers, carriers, and shippers. They also provide shipping agency and support services for the logistics and port ecosystem in Calais. With offices in Calais, Boulogne-sur-Mer, and Dunkirk, A.S.A and BIMS have a strong presence on the Channel coast, employing nearly 50 people and generating combined revenues of €5 million in 2024.

The acquisition of A.S.A and BIMS follows Getlink's earlier purchase of ChannelPorts Ltd in April 2024, further expanding its service and support offer for facilitating the exchange of goods between Europe and the United Kingdom. These acquisitions align with Getlink's ambition to become the independent reference point for simplified and digitalised management of customs formalities, combined with the best customer experience.



Yann Leriche, Getlink's Chief Executive Officer, expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition: "The acquisition of A.S.A and BIMS strengthens Getlink's service and advisory offer, built to support and simplify the trade in goods between the United Kingdom and the European Union. This transaction complements Getlink Customs Services one-stop shop offer for the cross-Channel market. We are delighted to welcome the A.S.A and BIMS teams with their long-standing presence on the Channel coast, and more than 20 years of expertise in this field."

By integrating A.S.A and BIMS' services into Getlink Customs Services, the Group will be able to provide a more comprehensive and streamlined solution for customers, simplifying their customs clearance processes and enhancing their overall experience. This consolidation will also enable Getlink to solidify its position in the fragmented market for customs services between Europe and the United Kingdom, further driving economic growth and facilitating trade between the two regions.

In conclusion, Getlink's acquisition of A.S.A and BIMS is a strategic move that will significantly enhance the Group's customs services offering, simplifying cross-Channel trade and facilitating the exchange of goods between continental Europe and the United Kingdom. This acquisition, combined with the earlier purchase of ChannelPorts Ltd, will enable Getlink to provide a more comprehensive and efficient solution for customers, ultimately driving economic growth and strengthening the Group's market position.