InforCapital
M&A Transaction•

InfraVia Becomes Majority Shareholder in LD Armateurs - InforCapital

InfraVia takes 80% of LDA, names Samira Draoua CEO, plans €1 bn investment to double fleet and innovate maritime services.

AM
Alvaro de la Maza

Partner at Aninver

Key Takeaways

  • Sector: Transport Infrastructure & Services (traditional).
  • Geography: France.

Analysis

InfraVia Capital Partners, through its InfraVia European Fund VI, has acquired an 80% majority stake in French maritime group Louis-Dreyfus Armateurs (LDA). The Louis-Dreyfus family retains a 20% shareholding, with Edouard Louis-Dreyfus remaining as President of the group.

Following the acquisition, the company will rebrand as LD Armateurs (LDA). Backed by InfraVia, LDA plans to invest €1 billion over the coming years to double its fleet and boost its footprint in technological innovation, energy transition, and next-generation maritime services.

Samira Draoua has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer. She brings vast experience in finance, digital transformation, and maritime operations, having served previously as CEO of Econocom France and President of Les Abeilles International.

This move is part of a broader trend in European private equity, where firms are increasing investments in maritime logistics and infrastructure platforms. Notable recent examples include IK Partners and Silverfleet Capital acquiring and expanding logistics and shipping assets across Europe.

InfraVia itself has a strong track record, including investments in Next Generation Data in Wales and fiber infrastructure joint ventures across the UK. The firm specializes in scaling operations with a focus on digital infrastructure and sustainable transport.

With this deal, LDA is expected to expand its current fleet—comprising vessels in project cargo, offshore wind maintenance, Ro-Ro transport, port logistics, and subsea cable servicing—doubling its operational capacity.

This strategic shift positions LD Armateurs as a leader in low-emission maritime transport and supports France’s and Europe’s broader objectives around green energy and logistical resilience.

Louis Dreyfus Armateurs (LDA) is a French maritime logistics and shipping company specializing in tailored industrial maritime solutions. Founded in the late 19th century and based in Suresnes, France, LDA is distinct from Louis Dreyfus Company (the commodity trading giant), though they share historical roots.

Maritime Transportation

  • Operates vessels for dry bulk shipping, transporting commodities like coal, grain, or minerals.

  • Owns and operates Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessels for transporting wheeled cargo such as vehicles and heavy equipment.

Offshore & Subsea Services

  • Provides support to the offshore wind industry, including:

    • Cable laying

    • Subsea inspection, maintenance, and repair (IMR)

    • Support vessels for wind farm operations

Marine Engineering & Project Cargo

  • Designs and operates vessels and services for heavy-lift cargo, out-of-gauge transport, and project logistics.

  • Offers custom transport for oversized infrastructure and energy-sector components.

Port & Terminal Logistics

  • Manages port logistics operations, including loading/unloading and terminal services, particularly for industrial clients in Europe and Africa.

Ship Management & Technical Expertise

  • Provides crew management, technical maintenance, and fleet optimization services for both its own vessels and third-party clients.