NEP sells SOS Global to logistics firm Rock-it Cargo

NEP Group has sold SOS Global to logistics firm Rock-it Cargo.

SOS serves major US sports and news broadcasters, professional sports leagues, and key vendors across the United States, Canada, Germany, the UK, and the United Arab Emirates. The acquisition, which was completed on 31 January 2024, bolsters Rock-it Cargo’s presence in the sports and broadcast sector.

Daniel Rosenthal, president and chief executive of Rock-it Cargo’s parent firm Global Critical Logistics (GCL), said: “Today, we bring together two trusted brands with a combined 83 years of experience. SOS’s legacy will be further strengthened as part of Rock-it Cargo, offering expanded services and global access through our unrivalled network.”

GCL said the acquisition is in line with the group’s strategic vision to bolster Rock-it’s global presence in the sports and broadcast sector while enhancing domestic capabilities in live touring, events, film, and theatre, and that with more than 85% of GCL’s revenue generated from international shipments in 2023, the acquisition of SOS, which primarily earns revenue domestically, presents an opportunity for “synergistic growth”.

SOS Global was acquired by NEP in October 2019.

Ed Reno, president of SOS, who will continue with GCL and report directly to Rosenthal, added: “Our team is thrilled to combine forces with Rock-it. Joining a larger international speciality logistics leader will benefit our customers and team alike, leveraging our robust domestic network and operational capabilities.”

Headquartered in Los Angeles, Global Critical Logistics (GCL) operates as the holding company for a number of brands, including Rock-it Cargo, Dietl, Dynamic International, CARS, SOS, Cosdel, Xtreme, and Dell Will. Rock-it Cargo has offices in 18 countries and completed shipments in over 115 countries last year. GCL is backed by ATL Partners, a private equity firm that invests in aerospace, transportation, and logistics and is based in New York.