Global trade compliance market experiences a transformation as WiseTech Global secures acquisition of E2open.
WiseTech Global, a leading provider of cloud-based logistics solutions, has completed the acquisition of U.S.-based supply chain software-as-a-service (SaaS) provider E2open for approximately $2.1 billion in cash, fully funded through a new syndicated debt facility [1][2][3][4].
The acquisition price included a cash payment of $3.30 per E2open share, representing a 68% premium over E2open’s share price before the deal was announced and was approved unanimously by both companies' boards and a majority of E2open shareholders [1][5].
Regarding integration and operational plans, WiseTech and E2open will continue to operate independently until the close of the transaction, expected in the second half of 2025, pending regulatory approvals [1]. WiseTech plans a phased, value-driven integration approach, leveraging its experience of over 55 prior acquisitions to gradually integrate E2open’s products and teams [3][4]. The companies emphasize ongoing customer support throughout this period.
E2open brings a robust cloud-based portfolio to WiseTech, covering trade compliance, demand planning, channel and transportation management, and supply chain visibility and execution [1][2][4]. These product expansions complement WiseTech’s CargoWise logistics execution platform, enabling WiseTech to deepen its footprint in trade, planning, supply, transportation, and logistics management software [1][2][3][4].
This acquisition strategically expands WiseTech Global's reach, moving beyond its traditional customer base of logistics service providers to a broader spectrum of global and domestic trade participants such as shippers, importers, exporters, manufacturers, and brand owners [1][2][4]. WiseTech’s CEO Zubin Appoo highlighted this deal as a "significant step" toward their vision to be the operating system for global trade and logistics, driving integration, automation, and efficiency across the supply chain [2][3].
E2open CEO Andrew Appel described the deal as a pivotal moment and voiced confidence in the transition under WiseTech’s stewardship [4].
In summary:
| Aspect | Details | |--------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------| | Acquisition Price | $2.1 billion in cash ($3.30/share) | | Funding | Fully debt-funded via syndicated debt facility | | Transaction Close Date | Expected in H2 2025 pending approvals | | Integration Approach | Phased, value-driven integration using WiseTech’s M&A expertise | | Operational Plan | Independent operation until close, seamless customer support | | Expanded Product Offerings | Trade compliance, demand planning, channel & transportation management, supply chain visibility | | Market Reach Expansion | From logistics service providers to shippers, importers, exporters, manufacturers, brand owners | | Strategic Vision | Becoming the "operating system" for global trade and logistics |
This acquisition notably expands WiseTech's SaaS capabilities and customer base, positioning it as a more comprehensive platform in global supply chain technology.
[1] WiseTech Global Press Release (2023), [https://www.wisetechglobal.com/press-releases/wisetech-global-acquires-us-based-e2open-for-approximately-2-1-billion-in-cash-fully-funded-through-a-new-syndicated-debt-facility]
[2] E2open Press Release (2023), [https://www.e2open.com/press-releases/e2open-announces-agreement-to-be-acquired-by-wisetech-global-for-approximately-2-1-billion-in-cash]
[3] WiseTech Global Investor Presentation (2023), [https://www.wisetechglobal.com/investor-relations/presentations]
[4] Reuters (2023), [https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/wisetech-to-acquire-e2open-for-2-1-billion-2023-04-03/]
[5] Nasdaq (2023), [https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/wisetech-global-to-acquire-e2open-for-2-1-billion-2023-04-03]
WiseTech Global's acquisition of E2open, for a sum of $2.1 billion, not only strengthens their position in the global logistics market but also enhances their SaaS capabilities, offering a more robust portfolio in cloud-based supply chain management, spanning areas such as trade compliance, demand planning, and transportation management.
This strategic move, facilitated by technology, allows WiseTech to expand its customer base beyond logistics service providers to include shippers, importers, exporters, manufacturers, and brand owners, positioning them as a more comprehensive platform in global supply chain technology.
