Core Viewpoint - China COSCO Shipping Group is expanding its logistics operations in Germany by planning to acquire 80% of the logistics company Konrad Zippel through its newly established Dutch subsidiary, Goldlead Supply Chain Development (Europe) B.V. [1][11] Group 1: Acquisition Details - The acquisition has been submitted for approval to the German Federal Cartel Office [2][12] - Goldlead is a wholly-owned platform company established by COSCO to advance its terminal and hinterland business in Europe [2][12] - COSCO has been involved in the operation of the Hamburg Container Terminal Tollerort (CTT) for several years, holding a 24.99% stake in the terminal [2][12] Group 2: Company Background - Konrad Zippel is a core operating entity under the Zippel Group, which has diverse business segments including Z-Liner Road, Z-Liner Rail, and Zippel Logistik [2][12] - Zippel Group was established in 1876 and has an annual revenue of approximately €75 million (about 600 million RMB) [5][15] - The company specializes in container transportation between Hamburg port and other locations via road, rail, and inland waterways [5][15] Group 3: Strategic Importance - The acquisition is part of COSCO's strategy to enhance its control over container hinterland logistics, which is drawing significant attention in Germany, particularly in Hamburg [6][18] - COSCO's strategy in European ports involves a differentiated approach, including full control of selected hub ports, strategic minority stakes in politically or commercially restricted ports, and establishing purely commercial partnerships without equity involvement [8][18] - The acquisition aligns with COSCO's long-term plan to expand its intermodal transport business, particularly through rail networks connecting Central and Western Europe [6][16]