Live-Events Logistics Leader, Rock-It Cargo Parent GCL Sells For $1B

Private equity firm Providence Equity Partners has struck a deal to acquire Global Critical Logistics, the company that provides logistics services to concert tours, sporting events and other high-profile undertakings.

Sources tell the Wall Street Journal that the deal, under which Providence becomes the majority shareholder while former owner ATL Partners retains a minority stake, is worth $1 billion.

GCL — which operates brands including Rock-It Cargo, DIETL and Cars — provided logistics support for Taylor Swift’s record-breaking “Eras” tour and has also worked with, among others, Beyoncé and Paul McCartney.

“Completing more than 10,000 projects per year in over 160 countries, GCL enables some of the world’s most iconic moments including coveted live music tours, global mega-events and tournaments, sports broadcasting, film and television production, and experiential events. As an example of its capabilities, Rock-it Cargo recently entered into a multi-year partnership as the Official Logistics Provider of the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the new FIFA Club World Cup starting next month,” a Providence press release announcing the deal reads, in part.

GCL can trace its roots to Rock-It Cargo, which was founded in 1978 to provide touring support to Led Zeppelin and Uriah Heap.

Providence has steadily increased its investments in live music and sports including Ambassador Theatre Group, Learfield, Major League Soccer, PADI, Populous, Real Madrid, Superstruct, Sweetwater, TAIT, Topgolf, Yankees Entertainment and Sports Network, Wasserman and World Triathlon Corporation.