RMB’s ESG-linked and multi-jurisdictional facilities for Imperial Logistics

Client challenge

Imperial is an African focused provider of integrated market access and logistics solutions for the healthcare, consumer, automotive, chemicals, industrial and commodities industries. They are ranked among the top tier global logistics providers and are listed on the JSE in South Africa. They seek and leverage new technology to deliver innovative, end-to-end solutions.

With Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) being a significant pillar in enabling Imperial’s group strategy, they required a banking partner with strong experience and partnerships in Africa to deliver on their “Gateway to Africa” strategy with an enhanced focus on ESG.

RMB's solution

RMB designed a facility aligned to the nature of Imperial’s business, which required a robust approach to funding and treasury management. This included the need for multi-currency facilities of different tenors and structures to align to their business operations. RMB’s loan satisfies Imperial’s need for a suitable level of revolving credit facilities raised within the local markets.

By structuring these facilities in an innovative manner, in partnership and strategic alignment with Imperial, RMB was able to provide support that reflects the client’s evolving needs.

Client enablement

RMB’s ZAR ESG RCF structure includes an external Business Sustainability Rating and commitment from Imperial to direct pricing benefits to its ESG strategy. These two steps represented a step forward for the local market on product development for both impact and credibility.

Imperial has placed a strong focus on embedding ESG priorities into its strategic objectives and is following a comprehensive approach. This is highlighted by the Group’s investment in resources and its willingness to engage with external ESG Risk Business Sustainability Rating agencies (in this instance, EcoVadis) to provide an independent assessment on its ESG performance to stakeholders.

Imperial will also recognise a pricing benefit on the ZAR ESG RCF facility as its ESG rating improves over the tenor of the facility, which the company can use towards advancing its ESG strategy and objectives.