Kenolkobil has confirmed that negotiations on a takeover by Puma Energy have been terminated. In a statement sent to newsrooms, Kenya's largest fuel retailer advised its shareholders to exercise caution when trading with the company’s shares at the Nairobi Securities Exchange.
The directors of KenolKobil limited... wish to advise the general public, the shareholders and other stakeholders that the negotiations with Puma Energy regarding a potential acquisition of control shareholding in the company have been terminated,†said Managing Director Jacob Segman.
Since the announcement of a tentative takeover last May, Kenolkobil has been affected by injunctions from employees to block the sale, while also laying off and transferring staff. The company also suspended all capital expenditure after suffering a Sh3.89bn loss in its half year returns to June 30, 2012.
"The directors of the company shall continue pursuing strategic alternatives for the company to support growth strategy of the company across Central, Eastern and Southern Africa in order to enhance shareholder’s value,†said Segman.
The cancellation follows a move by the Government to introduce a 20% tax on assignment of rights, sale of business or takeovers in the oil and mining industry.