DP World Acquires Leading US-based Logistics Provider

DP World said that the acquisition will be funded from existing available resources (WAM).
DP World said that the acquisition will be funded from existing available resources (WAM).
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DP World Acquires Leading US-based Logistics Provider

DP World said that the acquisition will be funded from existing available resources (WAM).
DP World said that the acquisition will be funded from existing available resources (WAM).

DP World has announced the acquisition of 100 percent of syncreon for an enterprise value of $1.2 billion.

The transaction is subject to customary completion conditions and is expected to close in second half of 2021.

Syncreon is a US based global logistics provider that specializes in the design and operation of complex supply chains for the high growth automotive and technology industries. It provides specialized value-added warehousing and distribution solutions through a variety of manufacturing, export packaging, transportation management, reverse/repair and fulfilment services.

Syncreon has a global presence across 91 sites in 19 countries and services a large and diversified portfolio of customers made up of multinational companies, state news agency WAM reported.

In FY2020, the group reported revenue of $1.1 billion with 57 percent generated in EMEA (predominantly Europe) and 42 percent in North America. It has longstanding partnerships with customers averaging 18 years, and high contracts renewal rates.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO, DP World, said: "We are delighted to announce the acquisition of syncreon, which adds significant strategic value to DP World given its strong logistics solutions capability, and will allow DP World to deliver end-to-end solutions to cargo owners."

The acquisition will be funded from existing available resources.

DP World continues to make positive progress on its capital recycling programs and remains fully committed to its leverage target of below 4.0x Net Debt/EBITDA by the end of 2022.

For his part, Brian Enright, CEO of syncreon, said: "We are excited to join the DP World group as we believe that syncreon will benefit from the group’s significant expertise in the wider supply chain and excellent relationships with cargo owners. We share the vision of serving our customers through removing inefficiencies and delivering value add solutions. While we have enjoyed great success over the years, we believe being part of DP World will enable us to take the business to other markets."



Saudi Real Estate Projects Surpass $40 Bn in 2024

Officials are seen at a panel discussion at the Real Estate Future Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Real Estate General Authority)
Officials are seen at a panel discussion at the Real Estate Future Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Real Estate General Authority)
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Saudi Real Estate Projects Surpass $40 Bn in 2024

Officials are seen at a panel discussion at the Real Estate Future Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Real Estate General Authority)
Officials are seen at a panel discussion at the Real Estate Future Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Real Estate General Authority)

Saudi Arabia’s real estate sector saw significant growth in 2024, with 192 licenses issued for projects valued at 147 billion riyals ($40 billion).

This growth is supported by new regulations and laws that reflect the government's focus on strengthening the market.

Speaking at the Real Estate Future Forum, held in Riyadh from January 27 to 29, Saudi Minister of Municipalities and Housing Majid Al-Hogail said the sector has introduced over 20 new real estate regulations in recent years. These changes aim to boost the sector's appeal, vitality and reliability.

“The real estate sector in Saudi Arabia is no longer just about urban development; it is now a key driver of economic and social change, as well as sustainability and innovation,” said Al-Hogail.

He also pointed out that the forum offers unique global opportunities to grow the real estate sector and improve quality of life by building sustainable cities with services that meet the needs of residents.

On the private sector, Al-Hogail explained it currently manages 39% of the real estate market and aims to increase this to 70%. He also noted that the sector’s revenue has grown fourfold in the past three years.

Abdullah Al-Hammad, CEO of the Real Estate General Authority, said that the real estate sector’s contribution to the gross domestic product reached 12%, reflecting its growing importance in the national economy.

“The real estate sector achieved the highest participation rate in the labor market, with 25% of the participants in the social insurance system,” Al-Hammad said, emphasizing the sector’s role in employment generation and economic diversification.

More than 1,130 licenses for foreign real estate investments were issued during the third quarter of 2024, demonstrating increased international interest in the Saudi market, he remarked.