03/12/2024Transaction overview
Centrus provided strategic advice and support to Antin Infrastructure Partners and the founders of Proxima, Rachel Picard and Tim Jackson, in establishing France’s first privately owned high-speed rail operator. The project involved securing Antin as the sole equity provider and delivering the necessary financial framework to launch operations, which will add over 10 million new high-speed rail seats annually to meet growing capacity demands in France.
Centrus’ solution
Centrus acted as a commercial and financial advisor, playing a crucial role in the competitive procurement process for a fleet of 12 new high-speed trains. The team also secured a long-term maintenance agreement with Alstom and advised on the arrangement of a senior debt facility to finance the train acquisition. These solutions ensured the project’s financial viability while maintaining the high standards required for a landmark infrastructure initiative.
Centrus’ added value
By leveraging its expertise in transportation finance and its commitment to sustainable infrastructure, Centrus delivered a tailored financial strategy to bring Proxima to fruition. Rachel Picard acknowledged the dedication of Centrus’ team in reaching this milestone, while Managing Director Stephen Layburn highlighted Proxima’s role in supporting global sustainability efforts through enhanced mass transit solutions. The successful launch of Proxima underscores Centrus’ capability to drive transformative infrastructure projects.
“Special thanks to Steve Layburn and Louis Dubois in the Centrus Transportation team, for their commitment and hard work on getting the project through to this important milestone.”
Rachel Picard, CEO – Proxima
“High quality mass transportation is critical to the global ambition to reduce carbon emissions. Proxima will deliver more the 10 million new seats on the high-speed rail network in France to support this objective. We are proud to have been part of this journey with the founders and Antin, and to play our part in birth of this new business venture.”
Stephen Layburn, Managing Director – Centrus
For more information, please contact Stephen Layburn or Louis Dubois
Back to Credentials
