# Small logistics firms need succession plan

> America's small logistics businesses face retirement without buyers.
- Title: Small logistics firms need succession plan · Newsweek
- Summary: America's small logistics businesses face retirement without buyers. Six million small logistics firms could close by 2035 as baby boomers retire without…
- Keywords: small logistics businesses, succession planning, baby boomers, logistics companies, retirement transitions, supply chain, mckinsey institute, Small, logistics, firms, need, succession
- Source: Newsweek — https://newsweek.com/small-logistics-businesses-need-plans-for-owner-retirement-12574141
- Published: 2026-10-16T06:43:21+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: small logistics businesses, succession planning, baby boomers, logistics companies, retirement transitions, supply chain, mckinsey institute
## Supply chain crisis
The next supply chain crisis may begin with small logistics businesses closing permanently.
## Small business ownership
Six million small and midsize logistics firms could face ownership transitions by 2035 as baby boomers retire.
## Exit outcomes
92 per cent of small business exits end in closure, compared with only 5 per cent through sales.
## Logistics consequences
When a transportation company shuts down, employees lose jobs and communities lose employers.
## Succession options
A retiring owner can sell to an industry veteran, employee, or first-time owner with the right partner.
## Economic impact
Effective ownership transitions could keep 12 million jobs and protect $250 billion in annual local spending.
## Action needed
Owners should prepare now by documenting processes and finding qualified buyers before closing.
## Key takeaway

Six million small logistics firms could close by 2035 as baby boomers retire without successors.