Stord buys rival AMS Fulfillment in its biggest deal yet

Stord, a company that stores and ships products for online stores, has bought a competitor, AMS Fulfillment. It is the biggest acquisition Stord has made. The deal is worth nine figures, which means at least $100 million. Bloomberg Technology reported the news and spoke with Stord's CEO and founder, Sean Henry.

What changed

AMS Fulfillment brings 10 warehouses into the deal. With them, Stord's global network will grow to more than 100 locations. Stord is a logistics provider, which means it handles the storing, packing and shipping that online sellers often hand off to someone else. Buying a rival means one company now covers more of that work.

Who it affects

The most direct effect is on businesses that sell online and rely on outside firms to ship orders. When shipping companies merge, sellers can end up with fewer and larger providers to pick from. That could change warehouse space, delivery speed and pricing. It is too early to say in which direction.

What is not known yet

The material available does not give an exact price, the closing date or any plans for AMS Fulfillment's customers and staff. It also does not say whether service or fees will change. Henry also discussed the wider outlook for shipping and logistics, but those details were not included.

What to do

Sellers who use either company should watch for notices about contracts, pricing or service. Anyone shopping for a shipping partner may want to compare several options before committing.