Target Company Overview

The investment in SAF aims to support its growth ambitions in the provision of medical aerial emergency and firefighting services within France and to enhance its geographical presence across Europe. Established in 1979, SAF is headquartered in Albertville, France, and has built a distinguished reputation in delivering a comprehensive array of specialized aviation services essential for emergency medical transport, search and rescue operations, and firefighting efforts. The company operates a fleet of 90 aircraft supported by 30 operational bases, 10 training facilities, and a skilled workforce of 550 employees, which includes 300 pilots, conducting over 25,000 missions annually.

SAF’s aerial emergency services play a crucial role in supporting public entities, augmenting medical teams through the rapid transport of patients alongside medical professionals and equipment to centralized healthcare facilities, especially in challenging terrains. As the leading private entity in the provision of aerial firefighting services in France, SAF holds an increasingly vital position in monitoring and combating fire outbreaks in remote and vulnerable regions not only in France but also in other Mediterranean countries such as Greece and Turkey.

Industry Overview in France

The aerial emergency services and firefighting sector in France is experiencing gradual growth, driven primarily by rising healthcare demands within rural and hard-to-reach areas. Demographic shifts coupled with an escalating prevalence of climate change-induced extreme weather conditions have created an urgent need for rapid response mechanisms in emergency medical transport and firefighting operations. This sector operates under regulatory frameworks that emphasize the importance of timely intervention and the safeguarding of lives and property during emergencies.

Moreover, the impact of climate change is pushing for more robust disaster response infrastructures, further enhancing the necessity for effective aerial fire suppression and emergency medical services. Companies like SAF are adapting to these changing landscape demands by adopting innovative technologies and operational strategies to improve their service efficiency and effectiveness, ultimately saving lives and mitigating damages.

The competitive landscape is dominated by a mix of public and private entities, wherein private operators like SAF contribute significantly to enhancing operational capacities in emergencies. The presence of long-term contracts with governmental bodies fuels the sustainability and growth of the sector, allowing providers to engage more fully with the evolving needs of the healthcare system and disaster management initiatives across the region.

Furthermore, collaboration between private firms and public organizations is becoming increasingly vital as communities anticipate more frequent environmental crises. This partnership approach allows for the pooling of resources and expertise to create more comprehensive emergency response strategies, ensuring a proactive stance towards disasters.

Rationale Behind the Deal

This acquisition by Infracapital Partners IV is strategically aligned with Infracapital’s ambition to invest in essential infrastructure that addresses evolving societal needs and fosters long-term economic resilience across Europe. By supporting SAF, Infracapital aims to bolster its capacity to meet the rising demand for healthcare transport solutions while addressing the threats posed by climate change in various regions.

Infracapital’s backing will empower SAF to expand its geographical footprint and enhance operational capabilities, ensuring that it remains a leader in the critical domain of aerial emergency and firefighting services, particularly as the healthcare landscape evolves with demographic shifts.

Information about the Investor

Infracapital specializes in investing in, developing, and managing a diverse portfolio of essential infrastructure aimed at meeting the dynamic needs of society and supporting sustainable economic growth. The firm adopts an active investment management approach, focusing on initiatives that promise stable and sustainable growth while serving the communities involved. With more than €9 billion in client capital raised across seven funds, Infracapital has established a solid track record of enhancing the potential of its portfolio companies.

Part of M&G Plc, Infracapital benefits from the backing of a robust international savings and investments business, managing substantial funds from around 4.5 million retail clients and over 900 institutional investors across 39 global offices, amounting to total assets under management of £345.9 billion as of December 31, 2024. The experienced and founder-led specialist team, having collaborated with over 60 companies across Europe, is positioned to offer significant value and expertise to its investments.

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The acquisition of SAF by Infracapital presents a strategic opportunity to invest in a company that holds substantial market potential and demonstrates robust long-term fundamentals. Given the increasing reliance on aerial emergency services and the pressing need for advanced firefighting capabilities amidst climate challenges, SAF is well-positioned to experience sustained growth and relevance in its sector.

Infracapital's commitment to supporting SAF aligns perfectly with the current trends that emphasize the importance of healthcare infrastructure and environmental protection strategies. This alignment is likely to enhance SAF's capacity to adapt to emerging global challenges, making it an attractive investment prospect.

Moreover, the strong management team at SAF, highlighted by their operational expertise and dedication to safeguarding lives, reinforces confidence in the company’s strategic plan and potential for profitable growth. With Infracapital's backing, SAF can leverage enhanced operational efficiencies and expand its geographic reach while remaining focused on improving service delivery standards.

Overall, the deal is positioned as a compelling investment not only for its immediate growth prospects but also for the positive societal impact it represents, ensuring enhanced emergency response capabilities for communities across Europe.

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