The CMA CGM Group wishes through this acquisition to continue its development in the Mediterranean, while strengthening the position of the port of Marseille and the French maritime sector.

It intends to turn around and restore growth prospects to La Méridionale. To do this, it will support its development, by creating commercial complementarities in France and abroad, in particular on the ro-ro service to Morocco, while preserving the employment of French seafarers on board its ships. It will also invest in the fleet of ships and the energy transition of this shipping company.

With the assistance of a dedicated management team located in Marseille, the new shareholder will be keen to preserve the identity of La Méridionale and to strengthen the quality of service to customers of the Corsica and Morocco routes.

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 company has also opened a regular line between Marseille and Morocco with weekly services. La Méridionale relies on nearly 600 people, including 490 sailors, with a fleet of four dedicated mixed vessels: PELAGOS, KALLISTE, PIANA and GIROLATA.

Since its creation, Marseille and the Mediterranean have been at the heart of CMA CGM's history. The Group has undertaken structural actions to contribute to the economic dynamism of the region, to strengthen its attractiveness and to bring in new talent. The acquisition of La Méridionale, a link between Marseille, Corsica and the Mediterranean, is part of this ambition.

© Shippax