BlueFive Capital secures minority 49% stake in LeasePlan Emirates

Abu Dhabi-based alternative investment platform BlueFive Capital acquired a 49% stake in LeasePlan Emirates, giving it a foothold in a business that manages around 7k vehicles across the country, according to a press release.

The details: BlueFive bought the stake from French mobility company Ayvens via its Reef PE Fund I, but the exact price wasn’t disclosed. Post-transaction, ownership of LeasePlan is looking like an entirely Emirati affair, with Mubadala-owned consultancy Solutions+ remaining the majority shareholder with a 51% stake.

LeasePlan Emirates? The firm provides leasing and fleet management services to corporates, government entities, and individual customers in the UAE. The investment platform is looking to grow the business and pursue potential expansion in the region.

BACKGROUND- The acquisition is the latest transaction from BlueFive as it pushes ahead with its buy-and-build strategy since its 2024 launch. Some of its more recent high-profile transactions have been in the mobility sector. Earlier this month, the firm led a USD 250 mn funding round for UAE-based autonomous delivery startup CargoX, while last month, it agreed to acquire a 49% stake in fleet management company Massar Solutions from Taqa. It was also the largest investor in a consortium acquiring automaker Porsche’s stake in supercar brand Bugatti in April.

IN CONTEXT- Despite a recent push, BlueFive’s strategy seems to remain very much globally-focused, with plays in Saudi, China, the US, and Europe. The firm is pointing towards making defense its next big focus, working on raising USD 3 bn to invest in aerospace and defense.