JCDecaux SE has acquired a 70% stake in IMC, a leading outdoor advertising company in Central America, to strengthen its presence in the region and enhance its offerings through innovative digital solutions.

Information on the Target

JCDecaux SE (Euronext Paris: DEC), the leading global outdoor advertising company, has announced that its majority-owned subsidiary, JCDecaux Top Media SA, has acquired a 70% stake in IMC, a prominent outdoor advertising company in Central America and the market leader in Costa Rica. Founded in 2004, IMC has established itself as a major player in the region, boasting a substantial presence throughout the six regions of Costa Rica with a national network of approximately 4,000 analogue and digital advertising panels. The company also has operations in Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua, providing a diverse array of advertising environments, including billboards, shopping malls, buses, and street furniture.

Industry Overview in Central America

Central America, with a population of approximately 51.7 million as of 2023, presents a vibrant market for outdoor advertising, with estimated advertising investments exceeding US$2.2 billion. This region has shown impressive growth, outperforming broader trends within the American continent, attributed to its unique geographical advantages, particularly the Panama Canal, which enhances connectivity and mobility. As of now, outdoor advertising comprises around 7% of the local advertising market, according to Kantar Ibope and Integrametrics, indicating room for expansion as the sector evolves.

The outdoor advertising landscape in Central America is undergoing a transformation owing to advancements in digital technologies and sustainable practices. The ongoing digital transformation is reshaping the sector, allowing fo