CMA CGM acquires an old shipping company!
CMA CGM said in a statement that after information exchange and consultation with employee representative organizations and authorization from various competition authorities, the finalization of the deal depends on the signing of the equity transfer agreement.
through this acquisition, CMA CGM hopes to continue its development in the Mediterranean region, while strengthening the position of the port of Marseille and the French shipping industry.
CMA CGM plans to turn around La Méridionale and restore its growth prospects, according to the statement. To this end, CMA CGM will support its development by creating commercial complementarity in France and internationally, in particular with regard to the ro-ro service to Morocco, while retaining the jobs of the French crew on board. CMA CGM will also invest in the shipping company's fleet and energy transition.
CMA CGM said that with the help of the professional management team in Marseille, the new shareholders will be committed to retaining the characteristics of La Méridionale, strengthening the quality of service to customers on routes from Corsica and Morocco, while respecting the spirit of passenger service that has made La Méridionale successful.
It is understood that La Méridionale was founded in 1931 and operates under a public service franchiseDaily freight and passenger services between Corsica and mainland France, with up to 13 flights per week. The shipping company alsoA weekly scheduled service is launched between Marseille and Morocco.
In addition to ferry services, La Méridionale also offers logistics and freight services, including refrigerated transport of perishable goods. The company's fleet includes four roll-on-roll-off passenger vessels (RoPax): Pelagos, Kalliste, Piana and Girolata. Transported more than 209,000 passengers and 94,000 vehicles in 2022. There are nearly 600 employees, including 490 crew members.
The shipping company is also committed to sustainability and reducing its environmental impact, having implemented several initiatives to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency, including the use of low-sulphur fuel, shore power (cold ironing) and the installation of energy-efficient equipment on board.
Since its inception, Marseille and the Mediterranean region have been the development centers of CMA CGM. The company has taken major steps to contribute to the region's economic vitality, strengthen its appeal and attract new talent. The acquisition of La Méridionale, a shipping company linking Marseille, Corsica and the Mediterranean, is part of an ambition to strengthen its core regional business.
