MSC Acquires Majority Stake in AlisCargo Airlines

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MSC Acquires Majority Stake in AlisCargo Airlines

03/08/2023

Joint Press Release between MSC and AlisCargo Airlines

Geneva, Milan August 3, 2023 – MSC has acquired the majority stake of AlisCargo Airlines, a Milan-based air freight carrier; the parties confirmed that the transaction is a first step towards the acquisition of 100% of AlisCargo Airlines by MSC, expected to happen at the beginning of 2024, once AlisCargo Airlines will restart operations with the delivery of a Boeing 777F. This transaction is yet another step to further developing MSC Air Cargo operations and creates a European gateway and transit point for MSC’s air cargo solutions. Furthermore, the deal complements MSC Air Cargo’s aim to expand its existing trade lane network with better coverage and increased flexibility.

MSC Air Cargo Senior Vice President Jannie Davel stated: “The acquisition of a majority share in AlisCargo Airlines is a step towards expanding MSC’s Air Cargo solution capabilities, and ultimately providing our customers with a quality and consistent offering. I am equally proud that we have found a partner that shares a common vision with us and has built a strong foundation for which we hope to further develop.”

The majority selling party is represented by the Leali Group, led by Mr. Domenico Alcide Leali who, after the success with Air Dolomiti started AlisCargo Airlines in 2019.

Mr. Giacomo Manzon, General Manager of AlisCargo Airlines briefly commented: “I am proud to see a group like MSC entering as a major shareholder of AlisCargo Airlines and developing further the project that Leali Group has initiated. I am thankful for MSC’s trust in us, and we will work hard together to make it a success story.”

MSC Air Cargo has been building up its air cargo offering through numerous strategic partnerships with sales agents and software providers. MSC Air Cargo provides a complementary solution to MSC’s core shipping services and operates two aircraft managed by Atlas Air Worldwide between Europe, Central America and Asia and will add two more in the next 6 months. Following the completion of the operation, MSC Air Cargo will have a new operating license and a fleet of 5 wide-body aircraft within the next 12 months.

Banca Finint acted as financial advisor to Leali Group. Gianni & Origoni acted as legal advisor to MSC and Leali Group, with two separate teams of lawyers from its Milan and Padua offices, respectively.

About MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company
MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, is a global leader in transportation and logistics, privately owned and founded in 1970 by Gianluigi Aponte. As one of the world’s leading container shipping lines, MSC has 675 offices across 155 countries worldwide with over 180,000 employees. With access to an integrated network of road, rail and sea transport resources which stretches across the globe, the company prides itself on delivering global service with local knowledge. MSC’s shipping line sails on more than 260 trade routes, calling at over 520 ports. 

MSC Media Enquiries: media@msc.com

About AlisCargo Airlines
AlisCargo Airlines is the only Italian airline entirely dedicated to the intercontinental transport of goods. The idea to create an Italian full cargo international airline was born from the vision of Mr. Domenico Alcide Leali that, with a group of managers with unquestionable competence in the aeronautical industry, has created a project based on values such as experience, professionalism and quality, aimed to support the expansion of Made in Italy worldwide. The Leali Group in 2006 also founded Lefay Resorts, a new innovative brand in the Italian luxury wellness hospitality. Lefay Resorts has quickly established itself as one of the leading wellness brand worldwide; the company currently owns and operates two resorts in Northern Italy and aims to further expand both domestically and in Europe.

AlisCargo Airlines Media Enquiries: info@aliscargo.com