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United Petroleum Transports and Patriot Transportation Holding Conclude Acquisition

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United Petroleum Transports, Inc. (UPT) and Patriot Transportation Holding, Inc. (Patriot) closed the acquisition of Patriot and its subsidiary, Florida Rock and Tank Lines, Inc. Patriot shareholders approved the transaction valuing Patriot at approximately $66.2 million. UPT acquired all outstanding shares of Patriot common stock for $16.26 per share in cash. Florida Rock will retain its operating footprint and continue to operate under its historical brand. The merger creates a top ten bulk tank carrier by revenue with over 1,000 professional drivers and 30 terminals, stretching from Arizona to Florida.
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The acquisition of Patriot Transportation Holding, Inc. by United Petroleum Transports, Inc. (UPT) represents a significant consolidation within the transportation sector, specifically the bulk tank carrier industry. The cash transaction of approximately $66.2 million for all outstanding shares at $16.26 per share indicates a strategic move by UPT to expand its operational capabilities and market presence. The valuation of this deal warrants attention, as it reflects the current market conditions and the perceived value of Patriot's assets and customer base.

From a financial perspective, the acquisition is likely to result in economies of scale, potentially lowering operational costs and increasing profitability. The transaction also suggests an immediate increase in UPT's revenue, positioning it as a top ten bulk tank carrier by revenue. However, it is crucial to monitor the integration process as it can incur significant costs and may present challenges that could affect the expected synergies.

For current and potential investors, the key considerations include the impact on UPT's balance sheet, debt levels and the potential for revenue growth. The transition of Patriot from a publicly traded to a privately held entity also removes a market competitor, which could have regulatory implications and affect industry pricing dynamics.

The merger between UPT and Patriot, including its subsidiary Florida Rock, signifies a notable shift in the competitive landscape of the bulk tank carrier industry. By retaining the Florida Rock brand, UPT demonstrates a strategic approach to leverage existing brand equity and customer loyalty, which can be advantageous in maintaining market share during the transition period.

The expanded geographic reach from Arizona to Florida and the increase to over 1,000 professional drivers and 30 terminals suggest enhanced logistical capabilities. This scale may provide UPT with a competitive edge in terms of service delivery and operational efficiency. The mention of 'enhanced services' indicates a focus on customer satisfaction, which is critical in an industry where service reliability and safety are paramount.

It is important to analyze how this acquisition aligns with industry trends, such as the increasing demand for efficient and environmentally friendly transportation solutions. The ability of the combined entity to innovate and adapt to these trends will be crucial for long-term success.

The acquisition process, which concluded with shareholder approval and the subsequent delisting of Patriot from the NASDAQ Global Select Market, indicates a smooth transition from a legal standpoint. However, the transition of a publicly traded company to a private one involves complex regulatory and compliance issues that must be managed effectively to avoid potential legal pitfalls.

Additionally, as the combined entity now holds a more substantial market share, antitrust considerations may come into play. Regulatory bodies will likely review the transaction to ensure that it does not result in unfair competitive advantages or create a monopoly in certain markets. This review process can influence the timeline of realizing the merger's full benefits.

Furthermore, the legal structures of the merger will play a critical role in the integration of the two companies, including the harmonization of employee contracts, customer agreements and operational protocols. The handling of these legal aspects can significantly impact the success of the merger and the realization of its projected synergies.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK / ACCESSWIRE / December 21, 2023 / United Petroleum Transports, Inc. (UPT) and Patriot Transportation Holding, Inc. (Patriot), closed on UPT's previously announced acquisition of Patriot and its wholly owned subsidiary, Florida Rock and Tank Lines, Inc. (Florida Rock). Patriot shareholders approved the transaction at a special meeting of shareholders on December 19, 2023. UPT and Patriot finalized the transaction today. Under the terms of the merger, UPT acquired all outstanding shares of Patriot common stock for $16.26 per share in cash, valuing Patriot at approximately $66.2 million. Patriot will now transition from a publicly traded company to a privately held entity and was de-listed from the NASDAQ Global Select Market. Florida Rock will retain its operating footprint and continue to operate under its historical brand.

UPT's President & CEO, Matt Herndon, commented, "We are extremely grateful for all the work performed by so many individuals who made this transaction possible. Since the initial announcement, Florida Rock's team has effectively collaborated with UPT in planning to enhance operational outcomes with a shared goal of increasing profitability and service to customers."

The combination of these companies creates a top ten bulk tank carrier by revenue, with operations stretching from Arizona to Florida and over 1,000 professional drivers and 30 terminals. The joining of both companies will also result in enhanced services for current and new customers while continuing UPT's motto of "Seamless delivery…every time."

About UPT

Founded in 1966, United Petroleum Transports is the largest carrier of motor fuels, aviation fuels and chemicals in the Southwest, with Customer Service Centers in Alabama, Arizona, Georgia, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. Headquartered in Oklahoma City, UPT is a leader in the tank truck industry, with a professional driver base of more than 670 professional drivers who safely and dependably serve UPT customers across the USA and Canada.

About Patriot Transportation Holding, Inc.

Patriot conducts business through its wholly owned subsidiary, Florida Rock. Florida Rock transports petroleum and other liquids and dry bulk commodities. A large portion of Florida Rock's business consists of hauling liquid petroleum products (mostly gas and diesel fuel) from large scale fuel storage facilities to the customers' retail outlets (e.g., convenience stores, truck stops and fuel depots) where it off-loads the product into its customers' fuel storage tanks for ultimate sale to the retail consumer. Florida Rock also hauls dry bulk commodities such as cement, lime and various industrial powder products, water and liquid chemicals. Florida Rock currently operates 19 terminals in addition to numerous truck domicile locations throughout the Southeast. With one of the most modern tank fleets available in the industry, Florida Rock is composed of more than 300 tractors and 400 trailers.

Important Contacts

United Petroleum Transports United Petroleum Transports
Matt Herndon Erick Harris
President & Chief Executive Office Vice President of Legal Services
mherndon@drive4upt.com eharris@drive4upt.com

SOURCE: Patriot Transportation Holding, Inc.



View the original press release on accesswire.com

FAQ

What companies were involved in the acquisition of Patriot Transportation Holding, Inc.?

United Petroleum Transports, Inc. (UPT) and Patriot Transportation Holding, Inc. (Patriot) were involved in the acquisition.

What was the value of the acquisition of Patriot Transportation Holding, Inc.?

The acquisition valued Patriot at approximately $66.2 million.

How much did United Petroleum Transports, Inc. (UPT) pay per share to acquire Patriot Transportation Holding, Inc.?

UPT acquired all outstanding shares of Patriot common stock for $16.26 per share in cash.

What will happen to Florida Rock and Tank Lines, Inc. after the acquisition?

Florida Rock will retain its operating footprint and continue to operate under its historical brand.

What are the operational outcomes of the acquisition?

The merger creates a top ten bulk tank carrier by revenue with over 1,000 professional drivers and 30 terminals, stretching from Arizona to Florida.

Patriot Transportation Holding, Inc.

NASDAQ:PATI

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57.78M
2.22M
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General Freight Trucking, Local
Transportation and Warehousing
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About PATI

patriot transportation holding, inc. operates as a regional tank truck. the company conducts its business through its subsidiary, florida rock & tank lines, inc. its business consists of hauling petroleum related products, and dry bulk commodities and liquid chemicals. the company operates terminals in florida, georgia, alabama, south carolina, north carolina and tennessee. as of september 30, 2016, the company operated a fleet of 468 tractors and 561 tank trailers from its 21 terminals and nine satellite locations. the company offers hauling liquid petroleum products, such as gas and diesel fuel, from large scale fuel storage facilities to its customers' retail outlets, such as convenience stores, truck stops and fuel depots. its dry bulk commodities include cement, lime and various industrial powder products. it also provides delivery service in the liquid chemical and dry bulk business primarily from distribution facilities or manufacturing facilities to the end user.