Thoma Bravo Nears Deal to Forge $12 Billion Shipping Firm (1)

Thoma Bravo is in advanced talks to acquire third-party logistics provider WWEX Group Inc., according to people familiar with the matter, as part of a plan to create a shipping technology business worth as much as $12 billion.

The buyout firm is putting the final touches on a deal that would value WWEX Group, which includes the Worldwide Express brand, at almost $5 billion, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the information is private.

Thoma is planning to combine WWEX Group with one of its portfolio companies, e-commerce shipping software maker Auctane Inc., the ...