FST Logistics Company Profile

Background

Overview

FST Logistics is an employee-owned third-party logistics (3PL) provider specializing in temperature-controlled transportation and warehousing services. Established in 1991, the company has over 30 years of experience in the logistics industry, focusing on serving the complex shipping and storage needs of food and beverage brands. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, FST Logistics operates multiple facilities across the United States, including a significant presence in Fort Worth, Texas.

Mission and Vision

FST Logistics is committed to delivering exceptional service tailored to the unique requirements of its clients, particularly in the food and beverage sector. The company's mission is to provide comprehensive logistics solutions that ensure products are delivered safely and on time, meeting the rigorous demands of today's complex e-commerce and supply chain needs.

Industry Significance

As a leading 3PL provider, FST Logistics plays a crucial role in the food and beverage supply chain, offering services that include temperature-controlled warehousing, transportation, and distribution. The company's expertise in managing the complexities of food logistics has earned it recognition as a top provider in the industry.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

FST Logistics aims to be a full-service logistics partner, offering end-to-end solutions that insulate clients from market fluctuations, service failures, and retail compliance fees. The company focuses on providing reliable and efficient supply chain solutions that contribute to the success of its customers.

Areas of Specialization

The company specializes in temperature-controlled logistics, including refrigerated and frozen storage and transportation. FST Logistics also offers retail consolidation programs, combining less-than-truckload (LTL) orders from multiple customers to create single, lower-cost truckload deliveries.

Key Technologies Utilized

FST Logistics has made significant investments in technology to enhance operational efficiency and supply chain visibility. In 2020, the company developed a customer portal, a customer relationship management tool, and integrated its warehouse and transportation management systems. These technological advancements have been recognized by industry publications, including Food Logistics, which named FST Logistics to its 2020 FL100+ Top Software and Technology Providers list.

Primary Markets Targeted

FST Logistics primarily serves the food and beverage industry, focusing on grocery chains and distribution centers across the United States. The company's services are tailored to meet the needs of both established and high-growth brands in the sector.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As an employee-owned company, FST Logistics has not pursued external funding rounds. The company has achieved significant revenue growth over the years, with reported revenues of $216.9 million in 2025.

Utilization of Capital

FST Logistics has utilized its capital to expand its facilities and enhance its technological capabilities. In 2024, the company opened a new 383,930-square-foot warehouse in Fort Worth, Texas, to increase storage capacity and improve service efficiency.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

FST Logistics continues to expand its service offerings and geographic reach. The company's recent acquisition of Hyway Trucking in 2023 has enhanced its dry full-truckload freight services across the Midwest.

Anticipated Milestones

The integration of Hyway Trucking is expected to lead to increased operational efficiency and expanded service capabilities in the Midwest region. Additionally, the Fort Worth facility is anticipated to enhance the company's ability to serve clients in the southern U.S., contributing to future growth and market expansion.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

FST Logistics has developed proprietary platforms such as FST Insight™, which offers real-time inventory visibility, order and billing analytics, and exception management. This platform empowers customers to make data-driven decisions and enhances supply chain transparency.

Significant Scientific Methods

The company employs advanced technologies to optimize warehouse operations, including the use of AI-driven solutions to improve order picking and packing efficiency. A partnership with Lully AI has led to a 28% reduction in pick-to-pick time and a 30% decrease in locations visited per cart, enhancing overall warehouse efficiency.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Matt Hartman: President and Chief Executive Officer. Hartman has been instrumental in leading FST Logistics through significant growth and operational improvements.

Brad Wright: Chief Revenue Officer. Wright oversees the company's revenue-generating activities and has been recognized for his contributions to FST's success.

Jill Kuhlman: Chief Administrative Officer. Kuhlman manages the company's employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) and human resources functions, fostering a strong corporate culture.

Leadership Changes

Recent leadership changes include the appointment of Brad Wright as Chief Revenue Officer, reflecting the company's focus on revenue growth and market expansion.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The logistics industry, particularly in the food and beverage sector, is characterized by increasing demand for temperature-controlled storage and transportation solutions. Companies are investing in technology to enhance supply chain visibility and efficiency.

Competitor Analysis

FST Logistics competes with other 3PL providers such as C.H. Robinson, which reported annual revenues of $17.7 billion. However, FST's specialized focus on the food and beverage industry and its employee-owned model differentiate it in the market.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Collaborations

FST Logistics has partnered with technology providers like Lully AI to enhance warehouse efficiency and with Vitamin Well to support e-commerce and retail operations.

Partnerships

The acquisition of Hyway Trucking in 2023 has expanded FST's transportation capabilities, particularly in the Midwest region.

Operational Insights

Strategic Considerations

FST Logistics' focus on temperature-controlled logistics and its employee-owned structure provide a competitive advantage in delivering personalized and reliable services to clients. The company's strategic expansion into new facilities and service offerings positions it well to meet the evolving needs of the food and beverage industry.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Expansion Plans

FST Logistics plans to continue expanding its geographic footprint and service capabilities, particularly in the southern U.S., to better serve its growing customer base.

Future Objectives

The company aims to leverage its technological investments and strategic partnerships to enhance supply chain efficiency and maintain its position as a leading provider of logistics solutions in the food and beverage sector.