Ardian & Alvest: Pioneering innovation in ground support equipment

Decades of innovation powering global aviation

For over 70 years, Alvest, parent company of TLD has been a key player in the airport equipment space. With 12 factories on three continents and a presence in 170 countries, the group designs and manufactures a wide range of essential GSE products, including Air Conditioning Units, Ground Power Units, aircraft loaders and tractors.

In recent years, the group has expanded its activities with the acquisition of SAGE Parts (spare parts), AES (service), and SAS (decarbonization), making it a fully integrated player across the entire GSE lifecycle.
 

A trusted, long-term partnership accelerating Alvest’s transformation

Ardian first supported Alvest as a majority shareholder from 2006 to 2013. In 2017, the company returned as a co-investor alongside CDPQ, Sagard and the management team.

This long-standing relationship proved essential during the COVID-19 crisis. Indeed, despite a challenging environment, Ardian continued to back Alvest’s strategic investments, helping the group prepare for the post-crisis recovery.

With Ardian’s Co-Investment team support, Alvest worked to strengthen its business model by diversifying its revenue streams. Together, they developed new maintenance, leasing, and product-as-a-service offerings. This evolution made the group more resilient and reinforced its position as a long-term partner for airport operations.

A long-term vision for decarbonized and automated airport mobility

Alvest is leading the transition toward more sustainable and automated ground support solutions. Through its Leaner & Greener program, the group is developing safer and more energy-efficient products that align with the growing demand for decarbonized airport operations.

Recent innovations such as Taxibot, a hybrid towing system and TractEasy, an autonomous vehicle platform already operating at Level 4 are helping clients meet stricter regulatory requirements while improving operational efficiency.

These initiatives demonstrate Alvest’s commitment to shaping the future of airport mobility.

In 2025, Ardian reaffirmed its confidence in Alvest by reinvesting in the company alongside PAI Partners. This new phase of collaboration builds on nearly two decades of trusted partnership, shared strategic vision, and a strong alignment on long-term growth objectives.

With a robust platform, proven industrial capabilities, and a clear roadmap for innovation, Alvest is ideally positioned to meet the evolving needs of the aviation sector and lead the global shift toward greener ground handling solutions.

Discover Alvest's journey and its exciting future ahead in the video ↑