Published: July 1, 2025
Location: Paris, France
In a transformative move for the European maritime industry, InfraVia Capital Partners has acquired an 80% controlling stake in Louis Dreyfus Armateurs (LDA), one of France’s oldest and most diversified shipping companies. The deal, finalized on July 1, 2025, marks the beginning of a €1 billion investment strategy aimed at doubling LDA’s fleet, accelerating green maritime innovation, and expanding its global footprint in offshore wind support, cable-laying, and ro-ro cargo shipping.
InfraVia’s Strategic Acquisition of Louis Dreyfus Armateurs
The acquisition was executed through InfraVia European Fund VI, with the Louis-Dreyfus family retaining a 20% minority stake. Edouard Louis-Dreyfus will continue as President, ensuring leadership continuity. At the same time, Samira Draoua has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer, bringing extensive experience in maritime operations and digital transformation.
Key Acquisition Details:
- Acquirer: InfraVia Capital Partners
- Stake Acquired: 80%
- Remaining Ownership: 20% (Louis-Dreyfus family)
- New CEO: Samira Draoua
- Company Rebranding: LD Armateurs
- Investment Plan: €1 billion over several years
This acquisition positions LD Armateurs as a future-ready maritime leader, focused on sustainable shipping, fleet modernization, and digital innovation.
Louis Dreyfus Armateurs Fleet Overview (2025)
As of 2025, Louis Dreyfus Armateurs operates a fleet of 23 vessels, with plans to expand to over 45 ships. The fleet spans several high-growth sectors, including offshore wind logistics, subsea cable-laying, ro-ro cargo transport, and dry bulk shipping.
🔹 1. Offshore Wind Support Vessels
LDA is a major player in Europe’s offshore wind sector, operating 7 Crew Transfer Vessels (CTVs). These vessels are essential for transporting technicians and equipment to offshore wind farms in France, the UK, and Northern Europe.
- Recent Orders: Two new 27-meter CTVs from Strategic Marine
- Focus: Low-emission, high-efficiency vessels for renewable energy logistics
🔹 2. Cable-Laying and Maintenance Ships
LDA operates specialized vessels for submarine cable installation and maintenance, supporting both telecommunications and offshore energy infrastructure.
- Capabilities: Deep-sea cable laying, repair, and maintenance
- Clients: Energy companies, telecom operators, and governments
🔹 3. Ro-Ro Cargo Ships (Roll-on/Roll-off)
LDA’s ro-ro fleet is known for transporting industrial cargo, including Airbus aircraft components. These vessels often feature sail-assisted propulsion systems to reduce emissions and fuel consumption.
- Innovation: Wind-assisted propulsion (e.g., Oceanwings)
- Routes: Europe-based industrial supply chains
🔹 4. Multipurpose and Bulk Carriers
LDA also operates multipurpose vessels for transporting dry bulk and general cargo, often under long-term industrial contracts.
- Cargo Types: Grains, minerals, industrial goods
- Markets: Europe, West Africa, and Asia
Strategic Vision: Green Growth and Global Expansion
With InfraVia’s backing, LD Armateurs is set to become a global leader in sustainable maritime logistics. The €1 billion investment will focus on:
✅ Fleet Expansion
- Goal: Double the fleet from 23 to 45+ vessels
- Target Sectors: Offshore renewables, ro-ro logistics, subsea infrastructure
✅ Technological Innovation
- Digitalization: Smart fleet management, predictive maintenance
- Automation: Enhanced onboard systems for safety and efficiency
✅ Energy Transition
- Green Fuels: Exploration of methanol, ammonia, and hybrid propulsion
- Wind Power: Expansion of sail-assisted vessels to reduce emissions
✅ Market Diversification
- Geographic Focus: Northern Europe, West Africa, Southeast Asia
- Sector Growth: Offshore wind, subsea infrastructure, industrial logistics
Why This Acquisition Matters
Founded in 1893, Louis Dreyfus Armateurs has been a cornerstone of France’s maritime industry. This acquisition by InfraVia Capital Partners marks a new chapter, combining private equity strength with maritime heritage to drive innovation, sustainability, and global competitiveness.
“This partnership with InfraVia will allow us to accelerate our transformation and meet the challenges of tomorrow’s maritime economy,” said Edouard Louis-Dreyfus, President of LDA.
Conclusion
The acquisition of Louis Dreyfus Armateurs by InfraVia Capital Partners is a bold step toward the future of maritime logistics. With a robust investment plan, a diversified and growing fleet, and a clear focus on sustainability and innovation, LD Armateurs is poised to lead the next wave of global shipping transformation.
The Maritime-Hub News Network.
