Menzies Eyes IPO in 3-Years as It Bolsters Global Reach and Acquisitions

Menzies Aviation, a leading provider of airport ground services, is exploring an initial public offering (IPO) as part of its broader expansion strategy, according to its executive chairman Hassan El-Houry. The firm, which operates in 65 countries and 350 airports, has no immediate plans to go public but is considering it as a potential option over the next three years. The announcement comes as the company looks to fill geographical gaps and integrate its recent acquisition of U.S.-based G2 Secure Staff LLC according to Bloomberg.

El-Houry emphasized that any shareholder move, including an IPO, would be evaluated based on its ability to create value for investors. "At the moment, we're happy being private, but I think any shareholder move that creates or unlocks value for shareholders, we would seriously look at," he said during an interview at Menzies' London office. The company is also actively seeking acquisition opportunities in the

U.S. and Asia to support its global growth ambitions according to Bloomberg.

In addition to considering an IPO, Menzies plans to expand its presence in Southeast and Central Asia, as well as the Americas. The firm's strategic focus remains on strengthening its global footprint while ensuring operational efficiency across its key services, including ground handling, cargo, and aircraft fueling according to Bloomberg.

Strategic Considerations for an IPO

Menzies' potential IPO would require reinforcing its global operations before it could proceed. The company needs to address geographical gaps in its portfolio and fully integrate its recent acquisitions. El-Houry noted that the decision to go public would depend on market conditions, which he expects to evolve over the next few years. "Markets will change during the next three years," he said, declining to comment on which exchange Menzies might list on according to Bloomberg.

The company previously traded on the London Stock Exchange before being acquired by Kuwait's Agility Public Warehousing Co. in 2022. An IPO would be one of several options Menzies is considering to unlock shareholder value. El-Houry also emphasized that it is not the only path forward according to Bloomberg.

Expansion Plans and Acquisition Strategy

Menzies is actively pursuing growth in key regions, with a focus on Southeast and Central Asia, as well as the Americas. The company is looking for acquisition opportunities in the same industry to support its expansion goals. El-Houry said that the firm is well positioned to capitalize on emerging markets and strengthen its global network of ground-handling services according to Bloomberg.

The firm's recent acquisition of G2 Secure Staff LLC is part of its broader strategy to expand its footprint in the U.S. The integration of this acquisition is a critical step in preparing for future growth and potential public listing. Menzies is also exploring ways to enhance its service offerings to meet the evolving needs of its airline clients according to Bloomberg.

Market Trends and AI's Role in Growth

Across the financial and technology sectors, companies are increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency and drive growth. In a recent earnings call, Guidewire Software reported strong performance in its first quarter of 2025, driven by higher services demand and a growing backlog according to Investing.com. The firm raised its annual outlook for ARR and revenue, indicating confidence in its ability to scale operations while investing in capacity and AI initiatives to improve long-term efficiency.

Similarly, Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) reported record earnings in Q4 2025, driven by strong performance in its capital markets and investment banking segments according to Investing.com. The bank is using cross-platform AI and technology investments to amplify the execution of its strategic priorities, including global market share growth and client franchise development.

Risks to the Outlook

Despite the strong financial performance of companies like Guidewire and RBC, Menzies faces challenges as it considers an IPO. The global aviation industry is subject to volatility, with economic downturns, regulatory changes, and geopolitical tensions all potentially affecting demand for ground-handling services. Additionally, the integration of new acquisitions can be complex and may require significant investment in time and resources.

Menzies must also navigate the evolving regulatory environment across its operating regions. As it seeks to expand in Asia and the Americas, the company will need to ensure compliance with local and international standards while maintaining operational efficiency according to Bloomberg.

What This Means for Investors

For investors, Menzies' potential IPO represents both opportunity and risk. The company's focus on global expansion and acquisition activity could enhance shareholder value, but it will depend on how effectively Menzies executes its strategy and navigates market uncertainties. The IPO, if it proceeds, could attract investor interest by providing a clearer picture of the firm's financials and growth prospects.

In the meantime, Menzies continues to operate as a private company, giving it flexibility in decision-making and allowing it to prioritize long-term strategic goals. Investors will be watching closely for signs of progress in its expansion efforts and the potential timing of a public listing according to Bloomberg.