PAI Partners to acquire majority stake in Alvest, expanding aviation support portfolio

PAI Partners entered exclusive negotiations to acquire a majority stake in Alvest, a leading provider of Ground Support Equipment (GSE) for airports worldwide.

The deal, once completed, will make PAI the largest shareholder, while Ardian will retain a minority stake alongside the company’s founders and management team.

Founded in 2001, Alvest has grown into a key player in the aviation sector, manufacturing and distributing GSE, spare parts, and maintenance services. The company is also advancing decarbonization initiatives to improve efficiency and sustainability at airports globally. Headquartered in France, Alvest operates 10 factories across the U.S., Canada, France, Belgium, the UK, India, and China, serving clients in 167 countries and supporting operations in over 250 airports.

PAI’s investment aims to accelerate Alvest’s global expansion, drive the transition to electric GSE, and enhance fleet management and servicing capabilities. CEO Valentin Schmitt welcomed the new partnership, stating that PAI’s backing reinforces confidence in Alvest’s long-term growth strategy.

PAI Partners’ representatives, Laurent Rivoire and Albin Louit, expressed enthusiasm about supporting Alvest’s expansion and sustainability initiatives. Ardian, a long-standing shareholder, reaffirmed its commitment to the company’s continued success.

The transaction is expected to close this summer, pending regulatory approvals.

Source: PAI Partners

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