BONN: DHL Supply Chain, the world’s largest contract logistics provider, has agreed to acquire SDS Rx, a US-based provider of final-mile delivery and specialized healthcare transportation, in a move that strengthens its life sciences and healthcare (LSHC) portfolio.
SDS Rx, which manages healthcare deliveries from more than 200 US locations, will add long-term care and specialty pharmacies, radiopharmacies, and health system networks to DHL’s customer base. The deal will also expand DHL’s same-day and expedited delivery capabilities for healthcare clients.
The acquisition marks DHL’s second healthcare purchase in 2025, following its acquisition of specialty courier CryoPDP earlier this year. Both deals form part of DHL Group’s Strategy 2030 growth agenda to deepen its presence across critical healthcare supply chains.
Riding demand for specialty pharma
DHL Supply Chain North America CEO Mark Kunar said the sector’s rapid growth makes healthcare logistics a core strategic priority.
“The life sciences and healthcare sector is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 11% through 2030. Specialty pharmacy already accounts for approximately 50% of total prescription drug spending in the US, and the number of patients served by specialty pharmacies grew by 12% between 2018 and 2022. With this acquisition, we are expanding our healthcare logistics capabilities, attracting a new segment of healthcare customers, and reinforcing our position as a trusted partner in building resilient and connected healthcare supply chains,” Kunar said.
SDS Rx founder and CEO Drew Kronick said the partnership is about combining scale with patient-first delivery.
“Our mission is to enhance the quality of patient care with every delivery. Partnering with DHL represents a meaningful step forward, combining our strengths to improve the precision, reliability, and speed of delivery to patients most in need,” he said.
Strengthening end-to-end healthcare solutions
DHL said the integration of SDS Rx into its DHL Health Logistics division will boost its ability to deliver integrated, time-critical solutions across the entire LSHC supply chain, from pharmaceuticals and clinical trials to animal health and medical technology.
Global CEO of DHL Supply Chain Hendrik Venter said the acquisition extends DHL’s reach into critical healthcare segments.
“This acquisition is a meaningful step in expanding our ability to serve patients with precision and care. By integrating SDS Rx’s specialized final-mile capabilities into our operations, we are extending our reach into critical healthcare segments, scaling our Pharma Specialized Network and further strengthening our global DHL Health Logistics,” he said.
The acquisition remains subject to regulatory approvals. SDS Rx employees will join DHL Supply Chain and continue to operate under local leadership as part of the Life Sciences & Healthcare business in North America.
