MSC to acquire 42% stake in Clasquin, backed by premium offer

SAS Shipping Agencies Services Sàrl (SAS), a subsidiary of the world‘s largest container shipping company MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company SA, has entered into a put option agreement to acquire 42% shares in French logistics major Clasquin SA.

The proposed acquisition price stands at €142.03 per share, which according to Clasquin is a premium of 13.17% over the last closing price.

The price represents a 60% premium over the last closing price and 70.42% over the volume-weighted average since December 2023, when the acquisition talks emerged.

Under the deal, the shares would be acquired from Mr. Yves REVOL, Chairman of Clasquin, and private equity company OLYMP.

Completion of the transaction, which will be subject to obtaining clearance from the competent regulatory authorities, is expected to happen by the end of the year.

After completion of the acquisition, SAS plans to file a tender offer with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) for the remaining shares in the capital of Clasquin, at the same price.

The transaction is supported by the Chief Executive Officer of Clasquin and other key management team, who have committed to tender all of their Clasquin shares into SAS’ tender offer, representing in aggregate c.8.5% of the share capital.

Clasquin plans to continue to operate together with its teams and under the group’s brands (CLASQUIN, Timar, LCIClasquin Cargolution, CVL, Exaciel, Art Shipping International, and Transports Petit in particular).