Specialist Asset Valuation: Supporting Schenk Tanktransport’s Acquisition of Franz Fischer Spedition

Brief

Having previously provided asset valuation services and technical due diligence on the Suttons sale to Schenk Transport in 2024, Hickman Shearer was engaged once again to provide technical due diligence and asset valuation services in relation to the acquisition of Franz Fischer Spedition GmbH by Schenk Tanktransport.

Founded in 1948 and headquartered in Nienburg, Germany, Franz Fischer Spedition is a long-established family-run logistics business specialising in the transportation of hazardous goods, liquid chemicals and liquid sulphur across Europe.

With over 75 years of operational experience, the company has developed specialist capabilities in chemical logistics, supported by strong safety standards, specialist equipment and a highly experienced workforce.

The acquisition forms part of Schenk’s international growth strategy backed by Argos Wityu, strengthening the group’s footprint in the DACH region.

Work

Hickman Shearer was engaged to undertake independent technical due diligence and asset valuation across the operational fleet and associated equipment.

The assignment involved the analysis of a specialist and technically complex asset base, requiring detailed understanding of equipment used in hazardous chemical transport.

Our work included:

• Technical due diligence of the transport fleet and specialist tank logistics equipment
• Review of asset condition, utilisation and operational life profiles
• Independent valuation analysis of specialist logistics assets

In addition, the valuation was undertaken in Germany and delivered to meet a tight transaction deadline, reflecting the pace and complexity of cross-border M&A.

Franz Fischer Spedition operates a substantial specialist fleet, including:

• Over 100 tractor units
• Approximately 160 trailers
• Around 45 tank containers
• A certified tank cleaning facility

Outcome

Our analysis provided stakeholders with a clear, independent assessment of the operational asset base, supporting informed decision-making throughout the acquisition process.

The work also underpins the post-acquisition financial reporting framework, including purchase price allocation and balance sheet recognition.

The transaction represents the fifth add-on acquisition completed by Schenk since investment by Argos Wityu in 2021.

Following completion, Schenk operates one of the leading tank transport platforms in North-West Europe, with:

• Approximately €500m in revenues
• 2,900 employees
• 1,500+ tractor units
• 1,750 trailers
• 1,000 tank containers

The transaction was advised on by KwikGielen Corporate Finance.

About Hickman Shearer

At Hickman Shearer, we specialise in delivering exceptional RICS and ASA certified capital asset valuation, management, and sales services. Our expertise span a wide range of global industries, ensuring that we provide tailored and insightful commercial valuations and equipment valuation services to meet your unique needs. With a strong track record of delivering robust and independent advice, we are committed to supporting businesses in achieving their strategic objectives.

Find out how we support M&A transactions. ➝ Technical Due Diligence

Explore our full range of sale services.➝ Asset Valuation Services

Discover how we support complex sector asset valuations a range of sectors. ➝ Asset Valuation Sectors

Testimonial

“In a transaction involving a specialised asset base, it was important to gain a clear and reliable understanding of the underlying assets.

Hickman Shearer approached this with a high level of technical rigour and pragmatism, providing a well-structured and independent assessment within a tight timeline in order to support the transaction process.” – Arne Louwagie, Senior Director – Argos Fund