MOL acquisition: Mitsui O.S.K. Lines buys LBC Tank Terminals
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has announced the acquisition of 100% of the membership rights of LBC Tank Terminals Group Holding Netherlands Coöperatief U.A. The agreement, reached with the current owners Ardian, APG, and PGGM on 7 March 2025, is expected to be finalised within the next three to four months following regulatory approvals.
LBC Tank Terminals is one of the world’s largest independent chemical storage providers, operating seven state-of-the-art terminals in the United States (Houston, Baton Rouge, Freeport) and Europe (Antwerp, Rotterdam). With a total storage capacity of 3.3 million cubic metres, these terminals are strategically located in key chemical production hubs, providing essential connectivity via pipelines, vessels, barges, rail tank cars, and trucks.
Under its previous ownership, LBC enhanced operations, safety, and sustainability, achieving a Platinum Ecovadis rating and a 5-star GRESB rating. The company also expanded its storage capabilities to meet growing demand for new energy products.
MOL’s growth strategy in chemical logistics
MOL, one of the world’s largest shipping companies, specialises in marine transportation and logistics, operating a diverse global fleet that includes container ships, bulk carriers, oil tankers, chemical tankers, LNG carriers, and car carriers. The acquisition of LBC aligns with MOL’s strategic focus on expanding its chemical logistics business, having previously acquired shares in Nordic Tankers in 2019 and Fairfield Chemical Carriers in 2024.
With increasing demand for ammonia and CO₂ transportation in the transition to a low-carbon economy, MOL aims to strengthen its role in next-generation energy logistics by integrating LBC’s infrastructure into its global operations.
Future outlook
The partnership between MOL and LBC is expected to unlock new opportunities, particularly in emerging sectors such as sustainable energy storage and transportation. Despite the change in ownership, LBC will continue to operate independently, maintaining its commitment to safety, sustainability, and operational efficiency.
While the change in ownership marks an important milestone, LBC will continue to operate as an independent platform, with a continued focus on safety, sustainability, service, and operational efficiency.
