Cando Rail & Terminals will acquire Savage Enterprises in a deal that will add 36 railcar storage and transload facilities, three short line railroads, and 80 first and last mile rail service operations to the rapidly-growing Canadian switching and terminal railroad. The transaction requires regulatory approval, though, as Cando and Savage mention, there is no overlap in their current networks. 

Savage Rail is Cando’s fourth major acquisition in just two years, and follows its recent purchase of Channelview Terminal in Houston. 

“The industrial rail environment is fundamentally different than a decade ago – customer supply chains are increasingly continental, and they choose partners that can support their evolving needs with greater reach and efficiency. Bringing Cando and Savage Rail together will create the leading integrated rail terminal and infrastructure company in North America to meet these needs and beyond,” said Brian Cornick, President & CEO of Cando Rail & Terminals. “By combining two highly complementary teams and capabilities with Cando’s strong financial profile, we’re creating a stronger, more resilient platform to support our customers, team members, and communities today and invest for the long term. We are excited to welcome the Savage Rail team to the Cando family.”

Perhaps the most notable part of the acquisition is Savage’s Utah short lines, including the Savage Bingham & Garfield Railroad Company and Savage Tooele Railroad. 

Cando headquarters will remain in Winnipeg, but it will establish a U.S. headquarters in Salt Lake City. —Justin Franz