BIA sets new ambitions in African market through Sumitomo partnership

BIA Group, an exclusive distributor of Komatsu equipment and other OEMs in Africa, has formed a strategic partnership with Sumitomo Corporation, an operator of a diverse portfolio of businesses including a longstanding experience in the distribution of Komatsu equipment and rental

The two have agreed to partner with an eye to furthering the growth of their businesses and to generate synergies. The deal includes a minority investment by Sumitomo in the BIA Group and aims to bring together the two companies’ track records as Komatsu distributors and experience as independent OEM distributors in complementary geographies and industries.

Sumitomo Corporation will gain exposure to the mining and construction machinery market in the European and African geographies served by BIA Group, while BIA Group will benefit from Sumitomo Corporation’s global network and its experience in the distribution of Komatsu equipment in complementary geographies.

Meeting Africa's construction and mining needs

“We are very proud of the interest and trust shown by Sumitomo Corporation in partnering with BIA Group,” remarked Vincent Bia, CEO of the BIA Group. “This partnership allows BIA Group to set up new ambitions in the growing African market. By leveraging both companies’ long experience in the distribution of Komatsu equipment, we will be able to strengthen our market position by offering innovating solutions to our customers in the construction, mining, transport, and energy segments.”

Kenichi Hyuga, general manager, construction & mining systems strategic business unit, added, “We are delighted to announce our collaboration with BIA Group, a pioneer of distribution business in Europe and African countries for more than a century. We are committed to creating value through this partnership, leveraging the strengths of both companies to achieve sustainable growth. Sumitomo Corporation intends to contribute to the future development of BIA Group and the enhancement of customer satisfaction by investing its long-accumulated business management experience in mining and construction equipment distributors.”