Infrastructure manager Ancala has acquired The Peel Group’s 47.1% interest in Liverpool John Lennon, increasing its ownership in the UK airport to 94.2%.
Ancala has invested an unspecified sum to acquire the additional interest and now owns the asset alongside Liverpool City Council (LCC), which retains its 5.8% interest in the airport.
Peel Group acquired a 76% stake in Liverpool John Lennon in 1997, and in September 2019, reduced its stake in the asset when Ancala bought 35% from Peel Group and a further 10% from LCC.
Tim Power, partner, Ancala, said: “Increasing our stake reflects our continued confidence in the airport and its future potential. Through increasing our stake, we were also pleased to offer an attractive co-investment opportunity to our institutional investor base as we drive the airport’s next phase of growth.”
Steven Underwood, CEO, The Peel Group, said: “With Ancala’s deep understanding of the airport, their passion for its continued success and a proven track record, we are confident that this new chapter supported by an exceptional management team will enable the airport to build on its strong foundations and continue its trajectory of growth and performance.
“The Peel Group remains a committed supporter and customer of the airport through our broader investments in Liverpool and the Northwest.”
John Irving, CEO, Liverpool John Lennon Airport, said: “Ever since Ancala invested in 2019, its team has been highly proactive and supportive of our mission to deliver a faster, easier and friendlier experience for our customers.
“With Ancala’s increased commitment to the airport, I’m confident we’ll continue to build on our momentum as we expand airline partnerships and welcome more passengers.”
Councillor Liam Robinson, leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “The longstanding and constructive relationship we’ve shared with Peel and Ancala, whose commitment to the airport has driven significant investment and regeneration, has helped to establish Liverpool John Lennon Airport as one of the best in the UK.”
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