About us > Who we are
We have a unique heritage and proven performance
Who we are
We have a history stretching back more than 150 years. Over that time, we have become specialists in transforming market-leading companies across the globe by building real partnerships, focused on the real economy.
We have a large and diversified investor base spread across our flagship and mid-market private equity funds. Our investment approach is focused on unlocking potential, prioritising strategic growth and delivering long-term value for our investors and portfolio companies.
We do this at the same time as creating a working environment where our employees can thrive and feel they belong.
What makes us different
We differentiate ourselves by focusing on the real economy, with decades of leadership in the Food & Consumer, Business Services, Industrial Goods & Services, and Healthcare sectors.
We are industry insiders: our people have years of experience in developing their deep expertise and building strong connections throughout industry networks.
We have significant experience investing alongside corporates, families and founders, including in complex corporate carve-outs and strategic partnerships.
See our approachPAI at a glance
€39bn
Capital raised
c. 200
Full-time employees
26
Partners
07
Offices
From 1872 to today
PAI began in 1872 as part of Paribas’ investment business. From the very start, we were deeply engaged in the real economy, with early investments contributing to the industrialisation of France in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
We raised our first third-party private equity fund in 1998 and became independent following a management buyout in 2001. What unites our past, present and future is a consistent focus on sector specialisation and operational transformation.
Beyond business
We remain committed to building and maintaining a workplace that values and empowers diverse talent and promotes inclusivity at all levels.
Learn more about D&I at PAIOur ESG philosophy
We operate responsibly by committing to ESG principles and sustainable growth. This includes regularly reviewing our governance framework, strategy and vision to ensure ESG issues are considered at every stage of the investment cycle, as well as in our own operations.
See ESG & sustainability