A number of smaller freight forwarding and logistics operators across West Africa are exploring mergers or partnership arrangements, as larger regional and international groups expand their own footprints along the region's growing trade corridors.
Industry consultants say the trend reflects both the capital intensity of building multi-country logistics networks and shippers' growing preference for providers who can offer seamless service across several West African markets rather than country-by-country coverage.
While no major deals have been formally announced, several operators have confirmed they are in early discussions, and analysts expect the pace of consolidation to pick up over the next year.