In a groundbreaking deal that could reshape the maritime industry, French private equity firm InfraVia is charting a course to acquire an 80% stake in Louis Dreyfus Armateurs (LDA), a storied maritime giant with a legacy spanning over a century. This strategic partnership promises to turbocharge LDA’s growth, innovation, and energy transition efforts, setting the stage for a new era of maritime infrastructure.
A Maritime Powerhouse Gets a New Captain
InfraVia, through its European Fund VI, is poised to take the helm of LDA, leaving the Louis-Dreyfus family with a 20% stake. Edouard Louis-Dreyfus will remain at the helm as President, ensuring continuity while steering the company toward ambitious new horizons.
Founded in 1893, LDA has long been a titan in the maritime world, managing a fleet of 23 vessels and specializing in three high-growth sectors: industrial equipment logistics, offshore wind farm maintenance, and submarine cable installation. With a global footprint and a roster of blue-chip clients, LDA is no stranger to innovation. But this deal could take it to uncharted waters.
A Billion-Euro Voyage Toward Innovation
The transaction isn’t just about ownership—it’s about transformation. InfraVia’s investment will inject a staggering €1 billion into LDA over the next few years, enabling the company to more than double its fleet and accelerate its push into cutting-edge maritime technologies.
From energy-efficient vessels to next-gen navigation systems, LDA is poised to become a driving force in the maritime energy transition. “With InfraVia as a shareholder, LDA would accelerate its ambitions to become a leading maritime infrastructure group,” the companies stated.
Shared Vision, Shared Ambitions
Vincent Levita, Founder and CEO of InfraVia, emphasized the synergy between the two entities: “We share a common vision with LDA regarding the future of the maritime sector. Our goal is to support the group in developing tomorrow’s maritime solutions and services.”
Edouard Louis-Dreyfus echoed this sentiment, highlighting the shared values and ambitions that underpin the partnership. “Today, more than ever, we believe in high-performing marine services that are both environmentally and economically sustainable. This deal propels LDA into a new dynamic of growth and innovation,” he said.
Charting the Course Ahead
The deal, expected to close in the first half of 2025 pending regulatory approvals, comes on the heels of several high-profile projects for LDA. Last October, the company began constructing the first low-carbon RoRo vessel for Airbus, part of a trio of wind-powered ships designed to slash emissions.
In January 2025, LDA was tapped by Vattenfall to build and operate up to three service operation vessels (SOVs) for offshore wind farms. With SALT as the naval architect and ZPMC as the shipyard, LDA is doubling down on its commitment to sustainable maritime solutions.
This partnership isn’t just a transaction—it’s a transformation. As InfraVia and LDA set sail together, the maritime industry is watching closely, eager to see how this bold move will redefine the future of the seas.
