Imperial has announced that it has entered into a transaction implementation agreement regarding a cash offer of ZAR66 per share from DP World to acquire all outstanding shares of Imperial, implying an estimated aggregate cash consideration of c. ZAR 12.7 billion. This offer represents a premium of 39.5% to the Imperial share price as at 7 July 2021 and a 34.2% premium to the 30-day volume weighted average price of Imperial.

“This transaction will be value-enhancing for Imperial as our business will benefit from DP World’s leading technology, global networks and key trade-lane volumes, while enabling us to build on our ‘Gateway to Africa’ strategic and growth ambitions. Our Logistics International business and operations are also aligned with DP World’s strategic expansion plans on the European continent. Combining DP World’s world-class infrastructure, specifically its investment and expertise in ports on the African and European continents, with Imperial’s logistics and market access platforms will enable us to offer integrated end-to-end solutions along key trade lanes into and out of Africa and accelerate our position in Europe, driving greater supply chain efficiencies and ultimately enhancing value for all stakeholders,” explains Mohammed Akoojee, Group CEO of Imperial.

DP World and its subsidiaries employ over 50,000 people across its worldwide operations and its vision is to drive economic growth through creating more efficient supply chains, connecting markets and offering innovative solutions to cargo owners, while ensuring a positive and sustainable impact on societies and the planet. DP World is focused on driving sustainable growth prioritizing practices that have a positive impact on the people, communities, and environment in which it operates.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said: “We are excited to announce the proposed acquisition of Imperial, which will add significant strategic value to DP World given its attractive footprint and strong logistics solutions capability. Imperial has a significant presence in Africa, a market where trade is expected to grow at more than 2x GDP driven by population growth, accelerated urbanization and rising middle classes. Imperial’s business strongly complements DP World’s existing footprint in Africa and Europe and will allow us to deliver a fully integrated end-to-end solution to cargo owners across a wider market.”