Target Company Overview

InfraVia has announced a deal with Apax for the acquisition of a majority stake in Sandaya, one of France's leading outdoor hospitality firms, alongside its two founders. Since Apax's initial investment in 2016, Sandaya has tripled its revenue. With InfraVia's support as a new shareholder, Sandaya plans to continue its development and accelerate growth both in France and internationally.

Company Background

Founded in 2011 by experienced entrepreneurs François Georges and Xavier Guilbert, Sandaya operates 30 campgrounds across France, Spain, and Belgium, all positioned in the 4 and 5-star segments and located in exceptional sites. Sandaya has established a robust digital platform, significantly enhancing its online booking capabilities, with nearly 60% of reservations completed online in 2020. This digital transformation, combined with the agility of its team and premium positioning, enabled Sandaya to withstand challenges during the COVID pandemic effectively.

Moreover, Sandaya has implemented an ambitious Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) plan, focusing on conserving natural resources, protecting landscapes and biodiversity, and training both permanent and seasonal employees. This commitment showcases the company's dedication to sustainable tourism practices.

Industry Overview in France

France is renowned for its vibrant outdoor hospitality sector, which has seen steady growth fueled by increasing consumer demand for unique travel experiences. The segment has demonstrated resilience, particularly during periods of economic uncertainty. The popularity of camping experiences has surged as travelers seek more affordable and nature-centric holiday options.

The outdoor hospitality market in France benefits from significant barriers to entry, including regulatory challenges and high capital investment costs. These barriers protect existing operators and provide a stable growth environment. Additionally, the French government's emphasis on promoting domestic tourism and outdoor leisure activities creates favorable conditions for industry expansion.

Internationally, the trend toward eco-friendly accommodations and experiences continues to grow, placing outdoor hospitality at the forefront of sustainable travel options. Leaders in this sector are focusing on enhancing their service offerings while maintaining a commitment to environmental sustainability, creating further growth opportunities.

Rationale Behind the Deal

The decision for InfraVia to acquire a majority stake in Sandaya aligns with its investment strategy focused on infrastructure resilient to economic downturns and possessing strong growth potential. The outdoor hospitality sector is seen as crucial for the economic recovery of local areas, and InfraVia aims to play an active role in supporting Sandaya's development.

With a proven track record of growth and resilience, Sandaya presents a valuable opportunity for InfraVia to accelerate its organic and external growth strategies alongside the company's founders. The deal is positioned to capitalize on the sector's long-term growth prospects.

Investor Information

InfraVia Capital Partners is an independent investment firm specializing in private equity within infrastructure and technology sectors. Founded by Vincent Levita in 2008, InfraVia manages €4.8 billion in assets and has a diverse portfolio comprising over 30 investments across 12 European countries. The firm partners with industrial players and entrepreneurs to drive growth and digital transformation.

On the other hand, Apax Partners is one of Europe's leading private equity firms with over 45 years of experience. The firm manages and advises funds amounting to over €4 billion, focusing on investing in high-growth SMEs across four key sectors: Technology & Telecom, Services, Healthcare, and Consumer Goods.

View of Dealert

The acquisition of Sandaya by InfraVia is an astute investment decision, reflecting a clear understanding of the growing outdoor hospitality market's potential. With Sandaya's established brand presence and operational efficiency, the company is well-positioned for continued growth, particularly as travel trends shift toward outdoor experiences that emphasize safety and sustainability.

Moreover, the collaboration aims to leverage Sandaya's existing strengths while enhancing its digital capabilities and service offerings. The focus on sustainability through the CSR initiatives aligns with current consumer preferences, further strengthening the investment's viability.

InfraVia's extensive experience in structuring investments in resilient sectors provides a unique advantage that could propel Sandaya into new markets and increase its competitiveness. The establishment of this partnership signals a commitment to long-term growth, positioning Sandaya favorably for the future.

In conclusion, InfraVia's acquisition of Sandaya not only highlights the firm's strategic vision but also sets the stage for significant advancements within the outdoor hospitality industry, which could lead to robust economic contributions in local communities.

View Original Article