Third-party logistics provider Port Logistics Group has acquired Whiplash Merchandising, Inc., a provider of ecommerce fulfillment software, for an undisclosed sum, a year after it took an ownership interest in the company.
Whiplash has a technology platform providing shopping cart integration and warehouse management system (WMS) and order management system (OMS) capabilities for ecommerce shippers to round out Port Logistics Group’s fulfillment offerings. Port Logistics has fulfilled 1.5 million orders using the Whiplash platform.
“The convergence of data, technology and ecommerce has changed the game for logistics and shipping providers,” said Greg Morello, president and chief commercial officer of Port Logistics Group in a statement. “It’s no longer just about fulfilling orders. It’s about providing a seamless customer experience from the second a consumer clicks ‘buy’ to the moment the product arrives in hand.”
Morello said the company plans to expand its direct-to-customer services for SMBs via Whiplash, moving them into more traditional logistics as they scale up.
Port Logistics Group, listed as one of MCM’s Top 3PLs for the past three years, also recently expanded its operations, opening a 305,000-square-foot fulfillment center for multiple clients in Columbus, OH. In total the company operates 6.3 million square feet of fulfillment space. Major clients include Macy’s and Bed Bath & Beyond for store replenishment, although many clients are requiring DTC capabilities as well.
Services it provides include kitting, specialized packaging and returns processing programs as well as access to discounted rates through its carrier relationships.
“The Midwest is a critical part of our strategy as we continue to build our ecommerce profile,” said Jeff Wolpov, CEO of Port Logistics Group in a statement. “The new Columbus facility gives us the ability to reach the majority of U.S. consumers with fast, cost effective ground service.”