Thoma Looks to Create $12 Billion Shipping Tech Firm With Merger

Thoma Bravo is in talks to merge its shipping software firm Auctane Inc., formerly known as Stamps.com, with third-party logistics provider WWEX Group to form a business that could be worth as much as $12 billion, according to people with knowledge of the matter.

The private equity firm is set to inject about $500 million of new equity into the combined company under the proposal, which would cut costs and leverage for both units, said the people, who asked not to be identified discussing confidential information. Talks are ongoing and a deal may not materialize, they said.