Platinum Equity has successfully sold Livingston International, a company specializing in customs brokerage, freight forwarding, and trade consulting, to Purolator, Inc., a prominent provider of integrated freight and logistics solutions. This transaction highlights the growing interest in international trade services within the logistics sector.

Latham & Watkins LLP played a crucial role in representing both Platinum Equity and Livingston International throughout the sale. The corporate deal team was led by David Brown, a partner based in Washington, D.C., with support from associate Monica Hernandez. The firm provided comprehensive legal advice across various specialties, ensuring all aspects of the transaction were covered.

Tax matters were addressed by New York partner Matthew Dewitz, while benefits issues were handled by Washington, D.C. partner Matthew Conway. Antitrust concerns were managed by Patrick English, also from Washington, D.C., with assistance from associate Ben Bouwman. Additionally, hedging matters were overseen by New York partner Carlos Alvarez and associate Tiiu Lemsalu.

The transaction also required expertise in real estate, which was provided by Chicago counsel Jeffrey Anderson. International legal considerations were addressed by a team of partners and associates from Latham & Watkins' offices in London, Madrid, Paris, Frankfurt, and Hong Kong, ensuring compliance with various jurisdictions.

This sale is part of a broader trend in the private equity sector, where firms are increasingly focusing on logistics and trade services. The involvement of a multidisciplinary legal team underscores the complexity of such transactions, which often require specialized knowledge across multiple legal areas.

In related news, Latham & Watkins has been active in advising other firms on significant transactions. They recently assisted Capitol Meridian Partners with a strategic investment in LAUNCH and advised ONEOK, Inc. in a joint venture with MPLX. The firm also represented Worldpay in its acquisition of Ravelin Technology.

As the logistics and trade sectors continue to evolve, the demand for legal expertise in these areas is likely to grow. The successful sale of Livingston International to Purolator is a testament to the strategic moves being made within the industry, reflecting the increasing importance of efficient trade services in a globalized economy.

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