IFM Investors to Acquire Majority Stake in Associated British Ports in 2027 Deal
Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPP Investments) and OMERS have agreed to sell their combined 63.9% stake in Associated British Ports (ABP) to a fund managed by IFM Investors, in a major UK port infrastructure investment deal expected to close in the first half of 2027. Announced on October 21, 2026, the transaction will see CPP Investments sell its 33.9% holding, and OMERS dispose of its 30% stake.
The acquisition would give IFM Investors a majority interest in a port operator handling approximately 25% of the UK’s seaborne trade. The deal highlights the strategic value of maritime infrastructure, international trade gateways and port assets that also support more than half of the country’s offshore wind industry.
ABP’s Role in Maritime Trade and Energy Infrastructure
Associated British Ports operates 19 port facilities across the UK, supporting commercial shipping, industrial activity and supply chains. Its infrastructure also serves the offshore wind sector, linking established maritime operations with the country’s energy transition.
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Infrastructure Investment and Ownership History
IFM Investors is a global asset manager owned by Australian pension funds and the UK pension fund Nest. Its investment capabilities include infrastructure equity and debt, private equity, private credit, real estate and listed equities.
CPP Investments acquired its ABP stake in 2015, while OMERS has held its investment since 2006. During their ownership, ABP developed projects including the Immingham Renewable Fuels Terminal, Green Port Hull and Southampton’s Horizon cruise terminal.
UK Port Investment: Future Growth and Opportunities
The proposed acquisition comes as ABP continues to develop its port network and pursue opportunities connected with offshore wind and the wider energy transition. For infrastructure investors, the transaction underscores the long-term strategic importance of ports to trade, logistics and energy development.
Completion remains subject to customary shareholder and regulatory approvals, as well as stakeholder review processes. The financial terms have not been disclosed.
