Marrakech - In a significant development in Morocco's media landscape, Mohamed Hassan Bensalah, head of the Holmarcom holding, has concluded an agreement to acquire Groupe Maroc Soir. The group is the publisher of the daily Le Matin and its Arabic-language counterpart Assahra Al-Maghribia. The acquisition, made in Bensalah's personal name, is subject to regulatory authorizations. This move marks a new chapter for the group, with Bensalah aiming to drive a new editorial, digital, and strategic dynamic.
The acquisition is a notable shift in ownership, with Bensalah taking over from Othman Al Omeir, a Saudi businessman, journalist, and publisher. Al Omeir has been the principal shareholder of Maroc Soir since 2004 and also edits the online outlet elaph.com. Bensalah has saluted the work accomplished by Al Omeir and the group's teams, framing the acquisition as an opportunity for fresh development prospects both at home and abroad.
The project's primary objective is to position the group at the heart of global transformations in the media sector, driven by the acceleration of digital usage and the evolution in how people consume information. Bensalah intends to maintain the group's current editorial line, conducting the overhaul with respect for the fundamental principles of the press profession, including rigor, professionalism, and independence of editorial treatment.
The acquisition aims to strengthen the group's capacity to accompany Morocco's economic, social, cultural, and institutional transformations. The goal is to create a media outlet that is "resolutely turned toward the future," anchored in its national environment, and carrying a genuine international ambition. Bensalah also intends to consolidate the group's identity, credibility, and reputation, giving it the means to accelerate its development and broaden its reach.
According to sources close to the dossier, the editorial line is expected to remain intact, with no changes anticipated. The new majority shareholder has renewed his confidence in the current management, with Le Matin, a reference French-language daily, remaining the group's flagship. The acquisition is seen as a strategic move to ensure the group's continued relevance in a rapidly changing media landscape.
The deal reflects Bensalah's vision for the future of Moroccan media, with a focus on innovation, digital transformation, and international ambition. As the media sector continues to evolve, the acquisition is poised to have a significant impact on the industry, with Groupe Maroc Soir expected to play a major role in shaping the future of Moroccan journalism.
The transaction is a significant development in Morocco's media industry, with far-reaching implications for the sector. As the deal moves forward, subject to regulatory authorizations, Bensalah's plans for the group's future are expected to take shape, with a focus on growth, innovation, and maintaining the group's commitment to quality journalism.
Key points
- Mohamed Hassan Bensalah concludes agreement to acquire Groupe Maroc Soir, publisher of Le Matin and Assahra Al-Maghribia.
- The acquisition aims to drive a new editorial, digital, and strategic dynamic, positioning the group at the heart of global transformations in the media sector.
- Bensalah intends to maintain the group's current editorial line, with a focus on rigor, professionalism, and independence of editorial treatment.
