Technology investment firm Accel-KKR has completed the acquisition of Navis, a provider of operational technologies for the global cargo handling industry with all business units and employees transferred by the end of 2021. The acquisition was first announced in March 2021.

The acquisition comes at a time of demand for operating solutions among terminal, vessel, carrier and inland rail freight operators, as well as the urgent call for enhanced visibility and control of cargo flow across the global supply chain

“Weaknesses in our global supply chains have been tested during this pandemic and the results have been telling. These disruptions have created more urgency for advanced technology to better plan, execute and optimize cargo movement in order to provide a more predictable delivery experience for all shipping partners,” said Park Durrett, Managing Director of Accel-KKR. “With the addition of Navis to the AKKR portfolio, we’re building on a strong foundation and extending capabilities to deliver greater value and more actionable insights for supply chain stakeholders.”

“The acquisition marks a thrilling new chapter for the entire Navis team and our customers we proudly serve around the world,” said Benoit de la Tour, president and CEO, Navis. “Accel-KKR’s proven track record in growing supply chain software companies, combined with our market leadership position, will enable us to accelerate innovation and address rapidly-evolving challenges impacting the flow of cargo globally. We’re eager to see what the future holds and what we can accomplish together.”

Accel-KKR’s acquisition, which will complete the transfer of all business units by the end of 2021, includes Navis’ full software portfolio, including N4, Master Terminal and Octopi by Navis terminal operating systems, Navis Carrier & Vessel Solutions, as well as Navis Rail Intermodal TOS and Freight Rail Planning & Scheduling, powered by Biarri Rail. Finally, all current Navis employees will remain with the company, operating under the direction of the existing leadership team, led by Benoit de la Tour.