Schneider Acquires Watkins & Shepard, Lodeso

June 2, 2016
Schneider has acquired Watkins & Shepard and Lodeso, bringing together final-mile delivery, claims-free handling and an innovative technology platform.

Schneider has acquired Watkins & Shepard and Lodeso, bringing together final-mile delivery, claims-free handling and an innovative technology platform.

Both acquisitions complement the growing Final Mile+ service from Schneider, which provides customized home, commercial and retail delivery with white-glove service.

Watkins & Shepard and Lodeso customers will continue to receive the industry-leading 99.3 percent claims-free service they have come to know and expect. Existing and future customers will benefit from an innovative technology that provides seamless first-to-final-mile service and continuous visibility for consumers. As a result, Schneider is able to provide a single tariff and invoice, integrated tracking and reverse logistics capabilities.

“The ability to provide differentiated experiences for retailers, manufacturers and consumers is a primary area of strategic growth for Schneider,” said Schneider President and CEO Chris Lofgren. “We will continue to make significant investments to capture the full potential the combined companies now have to connect the first mile to the final mile.”

Based in Missoula, Montana, Watkins & Shepard is the leading provider of LTL, truckload and logistics services for difficult-to-handle goods, such as furniture and floor coverings, across North America. The company was founded in 1974 and has more than 1,300 employees, including nearly 800 drivers based out of 20 terminals across the U.S.

Lodeso uses proprietary technology to handle supply chain complexities within the national home delivery industry. In addition to continuous delivery tracking throughout the supply chain, this unique technology platform allows delivery agents, customers and all appropriate parties to handle any issues in a proactive manner. Lodeso is based in Zeeland, Michigan, and has more than 50 employees and nearly 600 agents across the U.S.

“We are facing a large increase in demand for our services, and that requires investment in people, equipment and facilities,” said Ray Kuntz, Watkins & Shepard CEO. “Schneider not only brings financial strength, they also understand transportation and the power of technology, and appreciate what we have built as a team. Schneider is the trusted choice to integrate and support our employees, as well as current and future customers.”