mynth
← DATABASE
05/2018

WORLD FREIGHT COMPANY acquired by PAI PARTNERS & BARING PRIVATE EQUITY

FRANCE Transport & Logistics / Logistics / Freight Forwarding EV 500M - 1.5b EUR

Context

The acquisition of World Freight Company International (WFCI) by PAI Partners and Baring Private Equity Asia represents a significant strategic move in the global air freight industry. The deal is driven by the growing demand for air cargo services, particularly in the Asia-Europe corridor, and the need for companies to consolidate and expand their networks to remain competitive. WFCI's strong market position, extensive network, and experienced management team make it an attractive target for investors looking to capitalize on the growth potential of the industry. The acquisition is expected to support WFCI's continued expansion and improvement of its services, as well as its strategy to increase its presence in key markets and to enhance its customer experience. The partnership between PAI Partners and Baring Private Equity Asia brings together two experienced investors with a deep understanding of the industry and a strong track record of delivering returns for investors. The deal is expected to have a positive impact on the industry, driving growth and innovation, and providing opportunities for companies to improve their logistics and supply chain management capabilities.

Previously, World Freight Company had been acquired in an LBO by Greenbriar Equity Group in 2015.

WORLD FREIGHT COMPANY, which reported an EBITDA margin of LOGIN in 2017, is valued in this transaction at an EV/EBITDA multiple of LOGIN, representing a LOGIN to the average currently observed in the Business Services sector (11.1x).

Note that this data is based on contribution from our growing community, composed of M&A and Private Equity professionals, and has been verified by our team to ensure its accuracy.

-> Deep-dive in Business Services market trends

Target

World Freight Company (WFC) is a leading global air freight services provider, founded in 2004 in Paris. The company operates as a general sales and service agent (GSSA), representing airlines to sell and manage cargo capacity while coordinating key operational activities. WFC serves over 300 airlines on 3,500 trade lanes and more than 16,000 freight forwarders across over 80 countries and key international trade routes. With a strong track record of execution and growth, the company has expanded its international footprint, strengthened its operational infrastructure, and enhanced its service offering to customers and airline partners worldwide. WFC plays a mission-critical role in the global air freight ecosystem, helping optimize efficiency and commercial outcomes across increasingly complex supply chains. The company has a highly experienced management team and has developed differentiated digital and operational capabilities.

Ent. Value

LOGIN

Equity Value

LOGIN

Multiples

EV / Revenue

LOGIN

EV / EBITDA

LOGIN

EV / EBIT

LOGIN

Historical Financials (EUR)

Year
Rev
EBITDA
EBIT
2017
LOGIN
LOGIN
LOGIN
2016
LOGIN
LOGIN
LOGIN

Other operations with WORLD FREIGHT COMPANY

List of similar M&A transactions (Date, Acquirer, Target, Country, Sector, Deal Context)
DateAcquirerTargetCountrySectorDeal Context
05/2026BROOKFIELDWORLD FREIGHT COMPANYFRANCETransport & Logistics

The acquisition of World Freight Company by Brookfield marks a significant transaction in the global air freight industry. The deal is driven by the strategic rationale of expanding Brookfield's presence in the logistics and transportation sector, while also providing WFC with the resources and support needed to continue its growth and development

01/2015GREENBRIAR EQUITY GROUPWORLD FREIGHT COMPANYFRANCETransport & Logistics

The acquisition of World Freight Company by Greenbriar Equity Group marks a significant milestone in the company's history, as it transitions from one private equity owner to another. The deal is expected to provide World Freight Company with the necessary resources and support to drive growth and expansion, both organically and through strategic acquisitions

REFERENCES

Valuation range: EV 500M - 1.5b EUR

EBITDA range: 50M - 100M EUR

Note: This page provides detailed data on a private equity M&A transaction. Detailed and exact financial metrics for the acquisition of WORLD FREIGHT COMPANY by PAI PARTNERS / BARING PRIVATE EQUITY are reserved for mynth community members. Register for free to unlock full data.

Authors: verified mynth contributor (mynth data is contributed by M&A / PE professionals and systematically cross-verified with private deal documents and official press releases).

Press release: view release

Target: world freight company

Acquirer: pai partners / baring private equity