dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers, has reached an agreement with Brazil’s RM Ground Services to purchase a majority stake in the company. The acquisition marks dnata’s first step into the South American continent.

RM Ground Services, which was founded by Ricardo Morrison in 2004, operates at more airports in Brazil than any ground handling company. It offers passenger and ramp handling as well as cargo services. The company has 2,100 employees, serves over 400 flights a day at 24 airports across the country, and is highly-regarded for the quality of its operations and staff.

The company’s domestic clients include GOL, AZUL, Avianca and TAM Airlines. RM also provides services to a whole host of international airlines and major cargo carriers.

“The purchase of RM Ground Services is an important milestone for dnata. In growing our international operations, we have drawn upon dnata’s 56-year experience as an air services provider to bring value to our customers, partners, and employees. This latest acquisition opens the door for dnata to serve one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation regions: South America, and we look forward to building on the excellent foundations that already exist at RM Ground Services. We have found a great partner and passionate aviation manager in Ricardo Morrison,” said Stewart Angus, dnata’s Divisional Senior Vice President of International Airport Operations.

Under the deal, the Recife-based company will be rebranded to dnata, and Ricardo Morrison will continue as CEO. All current staff will also remain with the company.

“We are pleased to partner with dnata to bring a new range of services, products and knowledge to our customers in Brazil. dnata’s commitment to service excellence, safety, security and technology will improve not only the experience for our airline customers, but also for the passengers who travel with them. Together, we will enhance the expertise of our staff and the quality of our services to levels that have not been seen before in the region,” said CEO Ricardo Morrison.

The acquisition of RM Ground Services closely follows other recent high-profile transactions by dnata, including the partial acquisition of ground handling operations in Milan in September and the investment in cargo facilities at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport in July. In August, dnata also expanded operations with Gerry’s dnata in Pakistan at three new airports.

Established in 1959, dnata ensures the aviation industry operates smoothly and efficiently in 79 airports across the Middle East, Europe, Asia Pacific, Africa, North America and now South America. Offering ground handling, cargo, travel, and flight catering services, dnata is a trusted partner for over 380 airline customers around the world.

Source: rmghs.com