Ardian has officially completed its acquisition of a 22.6% stake in FGP TopCo, the holding company for Heathrow Airport Holdings Ltd, from Ferrovial SE and other shareholders. This transaction positions Ardian as the largest shareholder of Heathrow Airport, alongside the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which acquired a 15% stake through a separate vehicle.

Mathias Burghardt, Ardian's Executive Vice President and Head of Infrastructure, expressed pride in joining the Heathrow family, emphasizing the airport's significance as a global infrastructure asset. He highlighted Ardian's commitment to supporting sustainable growth and the transition to net zero, aligning with Heathrow's management goals.

Juan Angoitia Grijalba, Co-Head of Infrastructure Europe at Ardian, noted that the UK is a priority market for the firm. He pointed to Ardian's extensive experience in aviation, including previous investments in London Luton Airport and several airports in Italy. This acquisition reflects Ardian's strategy of investing in significant infrastructure projects in core markets.

Lord Deighton, Chairman of Heathrow Airport Holdings, welcomed Ardian and PIF as new shareholders, emphasizing their commitment to the airport's long-term development. He underscored Heathrow's role as a vital national asset that connects the UK to the world and drives economic prosperity.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, remarked that attracting such investments is crucial for economic growth across the UK. She viewed this acquisition as a strong vote of confidence in the UK economy, following a significant £63 billion investment from international investors earlier in the year.

Jonathan Reynolds, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, echoed these sentiments, stating that the investment reflects the UK's status as a leading destination for global investors. He emphasized the importance of such investments in fostering long-term growth and creating skilled jobs.

The transaction involved a collaborative effort from various teams, including M&A advisors from Bank of America, RBC, Goldman Sachs, and Santander, as well as legal support from Clifford Chance and DLA Piper. Financial and regulatory due diligence was conducted by KPMG and NERA, respectively.

Ardian is a prominent private investment house managing or advising $176 billion in assets for over 1,720 clients worldwide. The firm focuses on a range of investment opportunities across Private Equity, Real Assets, and Credit, while emphasizing responsible investment practices and ethical standards.

Overall, Ardian's acquisition of a stake in Heathrow Airport marks a significant milestone for both the firm and the airport, as they aim to foster sustainable growth and enhance the airport's role as a key international gateway.