By Larry Avila
Economies of scale, specialized markets or survival may drive trucking mergers and acquisitions in 2026, industry experts suggest, although their predictions are mixed on how active dealmaking will be in the sector this year.
Prolonged weak freight conditions and excess market capacity may sideline purchasing aspirations for some, as carriers look to reduce their capacity rather than augment it through acquisitions. However, opportunists may view the current business climate with low interest rates and distressed carriers as perfect for dealmaking.
“The extended freight downturn is a catalyst for M&A,” said Darach Chapman, transportation and logistics deal leader for PwC.
SHEFALI KAPADIA 