Akiem Secures EUR 285M Financing for European Rail Expansion

Paris, France – October 26, 2023

Akiem, a prominent player in the European railway sector specializing in locomotive and passenger train leasing and maintenance, has recently secured a significant financial boost. A new financing package totaling EUR 285 million has been successfully arranged. This strategic move is designed to fuel Akiem’s ambitious expansion plans and strengthen its presence across the European railway landscape. This article will delve into the specifics of this financial undertaking, analyzing its implications for Akiem, its customers, and the broader European rail industry. We will explore the key aspects of the financing, the strategies it supports, and the potential impacts on the company’s operations and market position. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of this important development and its contribution to the evolution of rail transportation in Europe.

Fueling Expansion: The EUR 285 Million Financing

The core of this news lies in the EUR 285 million financing secured by Akiem. This financial infusion, structured with the assistance of BNP Paribas (a leading French international banking group) as the advisory bank, is a strategic move with significant implications. The primary purpose of this financing is to facilitate the acquisition of new rolling stock assets. This investment in new locomotives and passenger vehicles is crucial for Akiem’s growth strategy, enabling it to meet the increasing demands of its customer base across Europe. The new assets will enhance Akiem’s capacity to provide comprehensive rolling stock solutions, encompassing leasing and maintenance services. This financial commitment underscores Akiem’s confidence in the European rail market and its dedication to supporting the transition towards more sustainable transportation solutions.

A Network of Support: Legal and Financial Expertise

The successful completion of this financing underscores the importance of collaboration and specialized expertise. Akiem was supported by leading legal and financial professionals throughout the process. Linklaters, a global law firm, provided legal advisory services, with a team led by partners Reza Taylor and Bertrand Andriani. Their expertise in financial transactions and railway law was instrumental in structuring and closing the deal. The investor pool, which contributed to the financing, received support from teams at Clifford Chance, another prominent international law firm. This collaborative approach highlights the complexities of large-scale financial transactions in the railway sector and the need for specialized legal and financial guidance. The involvement of these prominent firms reinforces the credibility and viability of Akiem’s expansion plans.

Akiem’s Operational Footprint and Service Offerings

Akiem’s operations are characterized by a substantial fleet and a wide range of services. The company currently operates a fleet of over 750 locomotives and 42 passenger vehicles. This extensive fleet allows Akiem to offer comprehensive solutions that span the entire rolling stock value chain. Their services include leasing, maintenance, and technical support, catering to the diverse needs of their customers. Akiem serves over 100 customers across 22 European countries, demonstrating its pan-European reach and market penetration. The company employs nearly 400 staff members, primarily based in France, Germany, Poland, Sweden, Italy, Hungary, and the United Kingdom. This geographically dispersed workforce ensures that Akiem can provide localized support and services to its customers, maintaining a strong presence in key European markets. Furthermore, Akiem operates as an Entity in Charge of Maintenance (ECM) certified, underlining its commitment to safety and reliability. Their comprehensive industrial ecosystem relies on a pan-European network of workshops and substantial inventories of spare parts to ensure the continuous maintenance and reliability of the rolling stock supplied to its customers.

Conclusion: Paving the Way for the Future of European Rail

The EUR 285 million financing secured by Akiem represents a significant step forward in the company’s growth strategy and a positive development for the European railway sector. The investment in new rolling stock assets will allow Akiem to meet the growing demand for its services, further solidifying its position as a leading provider of locomotive and passenger train leasing and maintenance solutions. This move is strategically aligned with the European Union’s initiatives to promote sustainable transportation and reduce carbon emissions. By investing in modern, efficient rolling stock, Akiem contributes to the modernization of the European rail network, enhancing its competitiveness and appeal as a viable alternative to road transport. The financing also reflects the confidence of investors in the long-term potential of the European rail market. The involvement of legal and financial experts, such as Linklaters, BNP Paribas, and Clifford Chance, further validates the credibility of Akiem’s expansion plans. This new financing is a testament to Akiem’s commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainable growth within the dynamic landscape of the European rail industry. In conclusion, this financial infusion paves the way for a stronger, more efficient, and sustainable rail network across Europe, benefitting both Akiem and its extensive customer base.

Company Summary

Akiem: A leading European provider of locomotive and passenger train leasing and maintenance services, operating a large fleet across multiple European countries.

BNP Paribas: A leading French international banking group.

Linklaters: A global law firm.

Clifford Chance: Another prominent international law firm.