Norbert Dentressangle, born on September 7, 1954, in Annonay, France, was a pioneering entrepreneur in the transport and logistics sector. He founded his eponymous company, Norbert Dentressangle SA, in 1979, initially focusing on cross-channel transport between France and the United Kingdom. With a strong vision and a commitment to excellence, he transformed a modest family business with just ten employees and a handful of trucks into one of Europe’s leading logistics firms.

Dentressangle’s ambitious strategy included international expansion and strategic acquisitions. In December 2007, he doubled the company’s size by acquiring Christian Salvesen, significantly bolstering its position across Europe. This growth trajectory continued in March 2011 when the company acquired the British firm TDG, contributing to pro forma revenues of €3.8 billion by 2012.

In July 2014, Dentressangle announced the acquisition of Jacobson Companies, a prominent U.S.-based third-party logistics provider, for $750 million. At its peak, Norbert Dentressangle operated from 500 sites in 20 European countries, employing around 33,000 people and generating revenues of $5.5 billion.

In June 2015, the company was sold to XPO Logistics in a deal valued at $3.56 billion. Following the acquisition, the Dentressangle brand was phased out, marking the end of an era for the company.

After the sale, Norbert Dentressangle shifted his focus towards real estate and industrial ventures through his family-owned holding company, Dentressangle Initiatives. In 2017, he became a significant investor in Kiloutou, the fourth largest construction rental company in Europe, acquiring a 70% stake.

Despite his immense success, Dentressangle has maintained a low profile, living with his family in Lyon, France. His journey from a small family business to a major player in the European logistics industry exemplifies his entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering dedication to innovation in transport and logistics.