Hanco, a leading asset rental and leasing company in the GCC, has acquired Byrne Investments and its subsidiaries from Havenvest Private Equity Middle East and HSBC Bank Middle East, for a value of around Dh600 million ($163 million).

The subsidiary companies include Byrne Equipment Rental and Spacemaker (collectively "Byrne").

Established more than 20 years ago, Byrne is the largest general rental company in the Middle East with 450 employees and 13 offices and rental depots all over the GCC. With over 20 years of experience, Byrne provides tailor made engineering solutions for complex purpose-built structures that require fast track turn around and innovative transport solutions.

Hamad S Al Sulaiman, CEO of Hanco said: “The acquisition gives a strong impetus to Hanco’s aspirations to be the leader in the MENA region’s asset rental and lease market. Byrne’s current GCC market presence and planned expansion dovetails well with our own regional expansion plans, making it an exciting acquisition for us. The company’s robust infrastructure, strong management team and talent significantly add to the value we gain from the transaction.”

“Following the transaction we aim to be the leader in the GCC for rental and lease of mechanical assets with a combined asset base of close to 30,000 units.  We hope to take Byrne into a new growth trajectory and build on its exceptional track record. Synergies between Byrne’s and our other businesses will make Hanco a powerful force in the equipment rental market,” added Al Sulaiman.

Venture Capital Bank has joined Hanco in the acquisition and will acquire a 25 per cent stake in Byrne.

The transaction was partly financed by UAE’s First Gulf Bank (FGB). GIB Capital and Baker & Mckenzie advised Hanco on the transaction.

Established in 1976, Hanco’s main business interests include leasing, car rental, and fleet management. Hanco operates a fleet of more than 20,000 vehicles and has a network of five regional offices, 130 outlets and 14 workshop facilities across Saudi Arabia. – TradeArabia News Service