The sale of Aerodrom Ljubljana, the operator of Slovenia's main airport, has entered the next stage, as the financial advisor in the sale issued a call for an expression of interest for a 75.5% stake in the company on Thursday.
The Brnik-based Aerodrom Ljubljana is considered one of the more attractive companies the Alenka Bratušek government has put on the priority list of 15 companies to be privatised.
Reports in recent months have suggested interest from a variety of companies, including from investment firms, operators of nearby regional hubs as well as large airlines, mostly from Asia.
According to data from January, nearly 69% of the company is controlled by the state (50.67% directly, the rest through state-owned funds and companies). The rest of the 75.5% stake on sale is being sold by smaller stakeholders.
The Jože Pučnik Airport Ljubljana operated by Aerodrom is Slovenia's main airport handling most of the country's passenger and cargo transport, and is seen as a an important player in the region in terms of cargo air transport.
"The airport is profitable and without debt. Taking into consideration its location, modern infrastructure and the possibility to expand, as well as a balanced combination of clients and destinations, the Ljubljana airport is a unique investment opportunity," KPMG, the financial adviser in the sale, said as it published the call in today's business newspaper Finance.
The newspaper Delo reported in December that Aerodrom Ljubljana would be an interesting takeover target also due to its strong financial position, after it had created provisions of tens of millions of euros in recent year for the building of a new terminal. The project was put on hold with votes from small shareholders in September 2013.
Source: Slovenia Times
