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The railcar leasing industry in Europe plays a pivotal role in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ transportation of goods and passengers. Various players including private equity firms, banks, and specialized leasing companies supply rolling stock, offering flexible financing solutions to operators. This market serves to streamline Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of rail cars, making it easier for companies to adapt to changing demands without Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ heavy costs and commitments of ownership. With a shift towards sustainable and efficient transportation options, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ industry is increasingly embracing innovation, such as automated rail systems and electric-powered fleets, which promise more sustainable operations in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ years to come.

This article highlights 16 notable investors in Europe’s railcar leasing industry, ranging from venture capital to private equity and corporate investors. With headquarters spanning locations from Paris to Zurich, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se investors differ in size, with some managing thousands of employees. The firms were established between 1866 and 2015 and collectively executed 383 investments in 2024. Investors like Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ European Investment Bank and EQT Group present an intricate picture of engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ rail sector, showcasing investment strategies that prioritize growth and modernization within this vital industry.

Top 16 Railcar Leasing Investors in Europe

1. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 198
• LinkedIn:

Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a public entity and financial institution based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 2015. It supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through a variety of services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. Bpifrance aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation by providing coaching and partnerships to help businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance was involved in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Rail Europe from SNCF Voyageurs and SBB in March 2022, which highlights its engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ rail transport sector. This transaction, along with oÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r investments in various sectors, showcases Bpifrance's commitment to supporting diverse industries, including those related to rail transport.

2. European Investment Bank (EIB)

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Luxembourg
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 99
• LinkedIn:

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg, founded in 1958, that provides financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services to support sustainable projects across various sectors. In 2024, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIB was involved in several significant transactions, including a $467 million debt financing for Adif Alta Velocidad, which manages Spain's high-speed rail network, highlighting its commitment to rail infrastructure. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIB provided funding to Pekao Leasing and BRD Sogelease, both of which are involved in leasing activities, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r demonstrating its engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ financing of transportation assets. The EIB's focus on promoting growth and job creation through sustainable initiatives aligns with its investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ rail sector, making it a relevant player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ railcar leasing industry.

3. EQT Group

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 30
• LinkedIn:

EQT Group is a prominent investment firm founded in 1994, specializing in private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Based in Stockholm, Sweden, EQT serves institutional investors by providing expertise in managing diverse investment portfolios across various sectors and geographies. Among Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir notable transactions in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ rail industry, EQT acquired EAGLE RAILCAR SERVICES in April 2025, enhancing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir footprint in railcar leasing. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have a significant stake in Hector Rail, a Swedish independent rail freight company, which Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y acquired in 2014. FurÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨rmore, EQT's acquisition of Dellner Couplers, a leader in train connection systems, underscores Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir strategic interest in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ rail sector. These investments reflect EQT's commitment to expanding its portfolio in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ rail industry, particularly in areas related to railcar leasing and services.

4. 3i Group plc

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1945
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn:

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity and infrastructure investment firm founded in 1945. The company specializes in providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, focusing on sustainable growth. With a diverse portfolio and a strong international presence, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Notably, 3i Group has made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ rail sector, including a notable transaction in April 2019, where Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y agreed to invest in Regional Rail, LLC, a leading owner and operator of short-line freight railroads and rail-related businesses in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ Mid-Atlantic U.S. This investment highlights 3i Group's commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ rail industry and its potential role in railcar leasing. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir past acquisitions, such as Keolis and Scandlines, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r demonstrate Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir broad investment strategy, although Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se are not directly related to railcar leasing.

5. Crédit Mutuel Equity

• Website: creditmutuel-equity.eu
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn:

Crédit Mutuel Equity is a private equity investment firm based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 1988. The firm focuses on providing capital and strategic support to businesses across various sectors, integrating economic and ESG considerations into Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir investment strategies. Notably, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have been involved in several transactions relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ leasing industry, including Occarent, which specializes in leasing equipment to professional clients, and Axialease, which raised funds for its leasing operations. These investments demonstrate Crédit Mutuel Equity's capability and willingness to engage in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ leasing market, including potential railcar leasing opportunities.

6. Deutsche Bank

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
• Founded year: 1870
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 32
• LinkedIn:

Deutsche Bank AG, founded in 1870 and headquartered in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, is a leading investment bank and financial services provider. It offers a wide range of solutions including investment banking, corporate banking, cash management, trade finance, and securities services. The bank serves corporate and institutional clients, helping Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m manage Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir financial assets and liquidity effectively through its digital platform, Autobahn. Notably, Deutsche Bank has participated in several significant debt financing transactions relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ railcar leasing industry, including a $1.5 billion debt financing for Transnet SOC Ltd in July 2022, which is involved in rail and freight services. Additionally, it has provided financing to Waypoint Leasing Services, a company focused on leasing helicopters and oÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r assets, indicating its broader engagement in asset leasing markets. These transactions highlight Deutsche Bank's role as a key financial partner in sectors that include railcar leasing.

7. STAR Capital Partnership LLP

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn:

STAR Capital Partnership LLP is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in strategic asset-based investments across Western Europe, managing capital from institutional investors. STAR Capital focuses on sectors such as transport, utilities, and healthcare, partnering with management teams to enhance shareholder value and ensure long-term growth. Notably, STAR Capital has made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ rail industry, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Eversholt Rail Group in 2010, a key player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ railcar leasing market. In 2021, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y acquired a majority stake in Rail Operations (UK) Limited, which provides rolling stock movement and storage services, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r solidifying Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir presence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ rail sector. These transactions highlight STAR Capital's commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ rail industry and its strategic focus on enhancing operational capabilities within this sector.

8. Arcus Infrastructure Partners LLP

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn:

Arcus Infrastructure Partners LLP is a private equity investment management firm based in London, England, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in infrastructure fund management, focusing on Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ European mid-market and managing assets across various sectors, including Digital, Transport, Energy, and Logistics & Industrials. Notably, Arcus has been involved in significant transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ railcar leasing context, such as Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir investments in Alpha Trains Group and Angel Trains, both of which are key players in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ railcar leasing market. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir acquisition of a majority stake in Peacock Container, a tank container leasing company, showcases Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir strategic interest in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ leasing sector. With a diverse portfolio and a commitment to enhancing infrastructure investments, Arcus Infrastructure Partners serves institutional investors and businesses seeking expert management and strategic support in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir infrastructure endeavors.

9. Cma Cgm

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte D'Azur, France
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn:

CMA CGM is a prominent shipping and logistics company founded in 1978, headquartered in Marseille, France. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ company operates in more than 160 countries, providing a comprehensive range of services including maritime transport, logistics solutions, and air freight. Notably, CMA CGM has made significant strides in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ rail transport sector, highlighted by its acquisition of Continental Rail, a Spanish intermodal train company, in July 2021. This acquisition enhances CMA CGM's capabilities in intermodal logistics, allowing for more efficient transportation of goods across various modes of transport. Additionally, CMA CGM's recent transactions, such as Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Puerto Seco Azuqueca, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ first dry port in Spain, and shares in CSP Bilbao, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r demonstrate its commitment to expanding its logistics and intermodal services, which are integral to railcar leasing operations.

10. Groupe Crédit Agricole

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1894
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 18
• LinkedIn:

Groupe Crédit Agricole is a cooperative banking group based in Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 1894. It provides a wide range of financial services, including banking, insurance, and investment management, with a strong commitment to mutuality and social responsibility. As an investor, Crédit Agricole has been active in various sectors, including leasing. Notably, through its subsidiary Sofinco, it acquired OTP Leasing, a Slovak leasing company, enhancing its operational platform in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ region. FurÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨rmore, Crédit Agricole Corporate & Investment Bank participated in a $700 million secured portfolio financing for CDB Aviation, showcasing its involvement in financing within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ leasing industry. These transactions highlight Crédit Agricole's engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ leasing market, including railcar leasing, although it operates across multiple sectors.

11. Dfds

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Copenhagen, Denmark
• Founded year: 1866
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn:

DFDS is a logistics and ferry operator based in Copenhagen, Denmark, founded in 1866. The company provides passenger and freight transportation services across Europe, operating a network of ferry routes and catering to both individual travelers and businesses. In recent years, DFDS has made significant acquisitions to enhance its logistics capabilities, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of primeRail, a German rail operator, in May 2022, which marked Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ launch of a new rail business unit for DFDS. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have acquired oÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r logistics service providers such as Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ Estron Group and HSF Logistics Nijmegen B.V., furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r strengÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ning Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir transport capacity and customer offerings. These strategic moves indicate DFDS's growing involvement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ rail sector, particularly in rail operations, which is relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ railcar leasing industry.

12. Ldc

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 15
• LinkedIn:

Lloyds Development Capital (Holdings) Limited, commonly known as LDC, is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. LDC specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. As part of Lloyds Banking Group, LDC focuses on helping management teams achieve Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir growth ambitions through investment and advisory services, fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success. Notably, LDC acquired Porterbrook Group on December 8, 2008, a key player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ railcar leasing industry, which underscores Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir involvement in this sector. Additionally, LDC has made various investments in oÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r industries, such as logistics and container supply, but Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir direct engagement with Porterbrook Group highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir relevance in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ railcar leasing market.

13. Antin Infrastructure Partners

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn:

Antin Infrastructure Partners is a private equity firm based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 2007. The firm specializes in infrastructure investments across various sectors, including energy, digital technology, transportation, and social infrastructure. Antin manages multiple funds aimed at providing institutional investors with opportunities to invest in essential services that yield attractive returns. Notably, Antin has been involved in significant transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ rail industry, such as Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir investment in Porterbrook Group, a key player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ UK rail leasing market, and Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir investment in Lake State Railway Company, which indicates Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir active role in rail transportation. FurÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨rmore, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir recent acquisition of Gas Transport Leasing highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir interest in leasing operations, reinforcing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir potential relevance in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ railcar leasing sector.

14. Partners Group

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 19
• LinkedIn:

Partners Group Holding AG is a prominent investment management firm based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, specializing in private equity, private infrastructure, private real estate, and private debt. Founded in 1996, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ firm manages over USD 149 billion in assets and is recognized for its innovative approach and commitment to sustainability. Among Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir notable transactions, Partners Group acquired Gateway Fleets on September 30, 2024, which is directly relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ railcar leasing industry. This acquisition highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir strategic interest in expanding Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir portfolio within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ transportation sector. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir previous investments in various sectors demonstrate Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir versatility and capability to navigate complex investment landscapes, making Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a significant player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ private markets.

15. Crédit Agricole CIB

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• Number of deals in 2024: 17
• LinkedIn:

Crédit Agricole CIB is an investment bank based in Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 2004. It provides a wide range of financial services, including structured finance, investment banking, and capital markets solutions, primarily serving corporate clients and financial institutions. With a global presence, Crédit Agricole CIB helps clients navigate complex financial landscapes. In recent years, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have been involved in significant debt financing transactions, including a $100 million raise for Aircastle in 2022, which, while primarily focused on aircraft leasing, indicates Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ transportation sector. They also facilitated a $283 million raise for Eurostar International in 2021, a key player in rail transport, highlighting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir involvement in rail-related financing. Their diverse portfolio and active participation in transportation financing make Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a noteworthy player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ railcar leasing context.

16. MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
• Founded year: 1970
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn:

Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. (MSC) is a logistics company specializing in shipping and transportation services, founded in 1970 and based in Geneva, Switzerland. With over 10,000 employees, MSC operates globally, providing tailored logistics solutions across various industries, including agriculture, automotive, and pharmaceuticals. In 2023, MSC made a significant move into Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ rail sector by acquiring a 50% stake in Renfe Mercancías, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ Spanish national rail freight operator, through its logistics arm, Medlog, and railway operator, Medway. This acquisition, valued at approximately 200 million euros, highlights MSC's strategic intent to expand its logistics capabilities into landside and rail logistics, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨reby enhancing its service offerings in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ transportation sector. Additionally, MSC has been involved in various acquisitions to strengÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨n its logistics and shipping operations, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Integrated Container Logistics in 2019 and a 49% stake in Moby in 2023, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r showcasing its commitment to expanding its logistics footprint.

Railcar Leasing Insights: Key Investors in Europe

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	1-10	2015	198
	Luxembourg	1001-5000	1958	99
	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	1001-5000	1994	30
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	201-500	1945	3
Crédit Mutuel Equity	Paris, Île-De-France, France	51-200	1988	2
	Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany	10001+	1870	32
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	11-50	1999	4
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	2009	3
	Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte D'Azur, France	10001+	1978	1
	Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France	10001+	1894	18
	Copenhagen, Denmark	10001+	1866	2
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	1981	15
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	201-500	2007	3
	Baar, Zug, Switzerland	1001-5000	1996	19
	Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France	5001-10000	2004	17
	Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland	10001+	1970	4

Want to find more investors focusing on Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ railcar leasing industry?

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• Deal History: Number of deals and Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir sizes.
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• ...and much more!