TNT Express continues Middle Eastern expansion
UPS acquisition target TNT Express has continued its expansion in the Middle East, opening a new office in Qatar. The company, which is currently the subject of a EUR 5.16bn takeover offer from Atlanta-based UPS, said it has opened a new branch in Abu Samra to help support business growth in the Gulf state.
TNT Express said Abu Samra was an important border crossing with Saudi Arabia, and the new office will provide a key connection for TNT’s Middle East Road Network between Qatar and other countries in the region.
Raju Cherian, country manager of TNT Express in Qatar, said Qatar was one of the fastest growing express markets in the world.
He said: “Increasing Governmental infrastructure investment and the upcoming FIFA World cup are set to continue the country’s growth within the Express sector. The new office in Abu Samra reflects TNT Express’ commitment to the region and it helps ensure we have the right capability to leverage the country’s growth.”
The TNT Express Middle East Road Network links the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan. Last year, the Middle East was one of the strongest markets in the world for volume growth at TNT Express, which has generally seen air volumes shrinking but road volumes growing.
TNT Express sales in Africa and the Middle East grew 6.5% year-on-year in the 12 months up to the end of December 2011.
James Edgeworth, sales and marketing director for the Middle East said: “Our Abu Samra office offers a great opportunity to grow the Express delivery business in Qatar. With our Middle East Road Network we are able to offer customers in Qatar and other GCC countries the most extensive road platform of its kind.”
- Citing unnamed sources, Reuters is currently reporting that EU officials will next week issue a statement of objections to UPS over its proposed acquisition of TNT Express, requiring concessions if the deal is to go ahead. EU antitrust supremo Joaquin Aluminia spoke of his concerns about the deal last week.
