Dubai's Aramex acquires South Africa's Berco Express

Reuters, Monday 12 Dec 2011

Deal is part of international expansion for company which has seen third-quarter profits hit by Egypt unrest and high oil prices

Dubai's Aramex has completed the acquisition of South Africa logistics and transportation company Berco Express Ltd., for an undisclosed amount, the company said in a statement on Monday.

The deal is part of Aramex' strategy to expand internationally and follows a recent joint venture with SinoAir in China and the acquisition of OneWorld Courier and In-Time Couriers in Kenya in the first quarter.

Berco Express operates 15 branches throughout South Africa and employs more than 700 people, the statement said.

Aramex said it will further expand across Southern Africa by opening additional offices and warehouses.

The logistics company also acquired Ireland-based liner agent and freight forwarder Aquaship Agencies in February to expand its freight capabilities in Europe.

Aramex reported a 3-per cent rise in third-quarter profits in October as uncertainties in Egypt and high oil prices weighed on its growth.

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