Siemens has announced that from 1 June, its Logistics and Airport Solutions will become an independent company, called Siemens Postal, Parcel & Airport Logistics GmbH (SPPAL), but still continue under the group umbrella.

Siemens believes that the ‘carve-out’ will make it easier for the company to compete in a marketplace heavily populated by SMEs.

CEO Michael Reichle said: “I am pleased that we now have the necessary flexibility to shape the future of the new Siemens Postal, Parcel & Airport Logistics. We are doing everything we can to seize opportunities in the fast growing parcel and airport markets. In doing so, our focus is always on maximising customer benefit.”

According to Siemens: “As an independent company, SPPAL is structured so that it can operate more quickly and efficiently in a competitive environment dominated by medium-sized companies. SPPAL has a sound financial footing to strengthen its market position.”

Siemens had announced its intention back in November 2012 to sell its postal and parcel sorting business, but subsequently decided in 2014 to instead run it as a separate company under the group umbrella.