French CMA CGM Group has entered into exclusive discussions with its compatriot STEF Group, a European company for temperature-sensitive logistics, to acquire 100% of La Méridionale, a maritime firm for mixed freight and passenger transport in Marseille, France.
CMA CGM said in its statement the finalisation of this transaction is conditional on the signing of share transfer agreements, after information and consultation with employee representative bodies, and authorisations from the various competition authorities.
With this acquisition, the French ocean carrier aims to continue developing its network on the Mediterranean.
CMA CGM plans to create commercial complementarities in France and abroad, in particular on the RORO service to Morocco, and preserve the employment of French seafarers on board La Méridionale ships. CMA CGM also wants to invest in the fleet of ships and the energy transition of La Méridionale.
La Méridionale, created in 1931, today operates a daily freight and passenger transport service between Corsica and the mainland, as part of a public service delegation with up to 13 weekly crossings. The shipping company has also opened a regular line between Marseille and Morocco with weekly services. La Méridionale has nearly 600 people, including 490 sailors, with a fleet of four dedicated mixed vessels, Pelagos, Kalliste, Piana, and Girolata.
