WORLD FREIGHT COMPANY acquired by PAI PARTNERS & BARING PRIVATE EQUITY
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 in 2017, is valued in this transaction at an EV/EBITDA multiple of , representing a to the average currently observed in the Business Services sector (11.4x).
-> 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
Equity Value
Multiples
EV / Revenue
EV / EBITDA
EV / EBIT
Historical Financials (EUR)
Other operations with WORLD FREIGHT COMPANY
| Date | Acquirer | Target | Country | Sector |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 05/2026 | BROOKFIELD | WORLD FREIGHT COMPANY | FRANCE | Freight Forwarding |
| 01/2015 | GREENBRIAR EQUITY GROUP | WORLD FREIGHT COMPANY | FRANCE | Freight Forwarding |
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: This transaction was contributed by a verified mynth contributor and cross-checked against available transaction documents and official company communications.
Press release: view release
Target: world freight company
Acquirer: pai partners / baring private equity