One of the most famous names in French shipping has been sold to private equity.
The Louis-Dreyfus family, shareholder of Louis Dreyfus Armateurs (LDA), has sold an 80% stake in the shipowner to Paris-headquartered InfraVia Capital Partners for an undisclosed sum in a deal that was first discussed in public in February. The Louis-Dreyfus family retains a 20% share, with Edouard Louis-Dreyfus remaining president of the group. Effective today, Samira Draoua (pictured) assumes the role of CEO of LDA.
LDA whose fleet today numbers around 30 vessels, will soon be renamed LD Armateurs. With InfraVia support, LDA plans to invest €1bn ($1.18bn) over the coming years to more than double its fleet and accelerate its growth in technological innovation, energy transition, and the development of next-generation maritime services and navigation modes.
The Louis-Dreyfus family is still in mourning from the passing two weeks ago of the previous head of the shipowner, Philippe Louis-Dreyfus, who died at the age of 80.
LDA was founded in 1893 as part of the Louis Dreyfus Group. Initially focused on grain shipping, LDA expanded into dry bulk, offshore, and port logistics over the 20th century. Headquartered in Suresnes, France, the company has diversified into specialised segments, including offshore wind support, submarine cable laying, and maritime training.
