Australia's CHAMP PE backs SaaS logistics provider

While the size of the deal was not disclosed, CHAMP typically invests in businesses with enterprise valuations of A$150-750 million ($115-573 million). AVCJ understands that Containerchain sits toward the lower end of this spectrum. This is the second deal from the GP's fourth fund, which has a target of around A$1 billion and achieved a first close earlier this year.

Founded in 2007 by Tony Paldano - who remains CEO and CHAMP's partner in the deal - Containerchain develops software that improves connectivity and visibility for the various parties involved in moving containers from truck to port to vessel. Communication between depots, terminals, transport operators, freight forwarders and importers and exporters is often inefficient, adding time and cost to the logistics process.

The company has operations in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand. It currently provides services to more than 100 depots, warehouses, ports and shippers, covering over 2,000 container trucks.

"The investment in Containerchain continues CHAMP's tradition of supporting the growth of Australian companies into Asia. Containerchain's innovative product suite, strong track record, and growth profile make it an attractive addition to the CHAMP portfolio," said Shane Gong, a director in the private equity firm's Singapore office, said in a statement.

The first investment from CHAMP's fourth fund was Pepperstone, an Australian foreign exchange broker that facilitates more than $100 billion in transactions every month. The deal was announced in March.

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• Topics
• Australasia
• Southeast Asia
• Technology
• Australia
• Singapore
• CHAMP Private Equity
• Logistics