Cambridge Capital Combines Everest Transportation and Simple Logistics in Merger

In a move aimed at reshaping the freight brokerage landscape, Cambridge Capital announced the merger of its portfolio company, Everest Transportation Systems, with Illinois-based Simple Logistics. The combined platform will focus on scaling operations, expanding service offerings, and enhancing technology-backed capabilities across multiple freight modes.

The deal was announced on May 20 and includes a growth capital investment led by Wintrust Financial Corporation. Legal advisory support was provided by McDermott Will & Emery LLP and Benesch, Friedlander, Coplan & Aronoff LLP.

Merging Strengths: Reefer Specialization Meets Tech-Driven Efficiency

Everest, a tech-enabled freight brokerage with expertise in dry truckload, drayage, intermodal, and hazmat shipments, is known for its proprietary offshore labor model and operational efficiency. The company has invested significantly in cloud-based platforms to streamline workflows and improve service quality. Its client base largely includes stable, non-cyclical industries such as food and beverage.

Simple Logistics, founded in 2012 and led by CEO Steve Spoerl, brings deep experience in refrigerated (reefer) freight and white-glove logistics services. The company serves a wide range of customers with time-sensitive and complex transportation needs. Spoerl, along with COO Jim Caine and CFO Jeff Paul, will remain with the business and join the Everest leadership team post-transaction.

“We are thrilled to welcome Simple Logistics to the Everest Transportation Systems family,” said Jake Elperin, Co-Founder and CEO of Everest. “Their expertise in refrigerated freight will allow us to serve a broader customer base with greater precision.”

Backed by Cambridge Capital’s Strategic Vision

Cambridge Capital, a private equity firm focused exclusively on the applied supply chain, acquired a majority stake in Everest in 2021. Since then, the firm has guided Everest through a series of growth initiatives, including a full platform re-engineering and strategic board appointments—most notably Chris Pickett, formerly of Coyote Logistics.

“This combination creates a sizeable, highly diversified asset-light freight brokerage with leadership across multiple modes and market niches,” said Ben Gordon, Managing Partner of Cambridge Capital. “We are positioning this platform to capitalize on the freight market’s eventual rebound.”

Matt Smalley, Principal at Cambridge, added:

“With Simple Logistics’ impressive financial performance and Everest’s scalable platform, the merger sets the foundation for sustained, long-term growth.”

Outlook: Positioned for Market Recovery

The merger allows both companies to offer cross-selling opportunities, share a more robust carrier network, and improve route planning and customer support. With access to additional capital and operational synergies, the platform is expected to accelerate growth even as the broader freight market continues to recalibrate.

With Cambridge’s ongoing backing and a reinforced leadership structure, the combined entity is poised to be formidable in a highly competitive freight brokerage sector.

Source: PRNewswire | Matt Smalley/LinkedIn