Our History
Established in 1879 as a trading company, UAC has evolved to become a holding company. We own businesses with manufacturing facilities across Nigeria
1880's
Our early history commenced with the merger of four companies trading on the River Niger with the combined entity called the “Royal Niger Company”.
1890's
Royal Niger's charter is revoked and its territories transferred to the British government.
Company is purchased by Lever Brothers.
1920's
The United Africa Company is formed by the joint agreements of the African and Eastern Trade Corporation and the Niger Company.
1930's
Nigerian Motors Ltd, a subsidiary of The United Africa Company, is incorporated in Lagos.
1970's
Unilever acquires a 40% stake in UAC Ltd.
1980's
Mr. Biggs is launched.
1990's
The company adopts the name “UAC of Nigeria Plc” and expands via the acquisition of CAP plc and Grand Cereals Ltd.
The real estate segment of the company is carved out and publicly listed on the NSE as UACN Property Development Company “UPDC”.
Unilever divests its stake in UAC.
2010
UAC Foods Ltd is formed through strategic partnership with Tiger Foods (a South African packaged food and beverages company).
2013
UPDC Real Estate Investment Trust (UPDC REIT) is
established and listed on the NSE.
UAC acquires 51% of Portland Paints and sells 49% of its stake in MDS Logistics to Imperial Logistics.
2018
UAC begins transition from a centrally run conglomerate to a lean holding company.
2019
Announces spinoff of UPDC and UPDC REIT.
2020
UAC sells a further 8% stake in MDS Logistics, giving Imperial Logistics control.
UAC sells a 51% equity interest in UPDC to Custodian Investment
2021
Chemical and Allied Products PLC (CAP) and Portland Paints & Products Nigeria PLC (UAC’s paint subsidiaries) merge, effective 1 July 2021
UAC acquires Tiger Brands’ minority equity interest in UAC Foods Limited. UAC Foods becomes a 100% owned subsidiary of UAC, effective 1 September 2021
