AVIS Southern Africa Ltd, the South African-based auto rental group, has completed its takeover bid of Avis businesses in Norway and Sweden. Avis, which has other numerous offshore operations, said it had also appointed Pat O’Brien as its Oslo-based chief executive of the two Scandinavian units, while current chief executive Paul Ramm would take over as chairman. All formalities related to the acquisition of Avis businesses in Norway and Sweden have been completed, the company said in a statement. In June Avis announced its intention to take control of the two Scandinavian businesses through a R300m bid. It said the move formed part of its strategy for its international expansion. Avis shares listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange jumped 3.28% R8.50 on news of the Scandinavian acquisition. – Reuters