CGI, one of the largest independent IT and business consulting services firms in the world, announced the signature of an exclusivity agreement to acquire Apside, a France-based leading digital and engineering services firm. The agreement was signed with Apside’s main shareholders, Siparex and investments companies of Crédit Agricole Group.
Operating for almost 50 years, Apside is recognized for its deep industry knowledge in manufacturing, financial services, insurance and mutual health insurance services and public sector, as well as its broad technology expertise in areas such as data, AI, cloud and cybersecurity. The exclusivity agreement was signed on March 28, 2025. The proposed transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions, as well as the prior information and consultation of the relevant employee representative bodies. Subject to receiving all required regulatory approvals and completion of the consultation procedures, the proposed transaction is expected to close in June 2025.
With a significant local presence, Apside serves more than 300 clients worldwide and has operations across 28 offices in six countries. Upon successful closing, more than 2,500 professionals would join CGI, deepening the company's local presence in France as well as in Canada, Portugal, Belgium, Morocco and Switzerland.
“The combination of CGI and Apside would contribute strongly to the expansion of CGI in France and would significantly strengthen our capabilities, particularly across manufacturing and financial services. Together, we will strengthen our ability to support clients in achieving their tangible business outcomes. This merger would also enable us to expand our portfolio of end-to-end services by integrating engineering services,” said Caroline de Grandmaison, President of CGI’s France and Luxembourg operations.“Beyond the complementary nature of our expertise, our two companies also share a common culture and set of values, focused on proximity with our clients as well as the commitment and professionalism of our teams. For Apside employees, joining CGI will enable them to benefit from a stimulating and collaborative working environment in which they can fulfill their professional aspirations. We look forward to welcoming Apside teams and writing a new chapter together.”
“Apside and CGI were founded the same year and share similar business models, particularly in terms of client proximity, operational excellence, and leveraging technology to create value,” said Valérie Lafdal, Apside President.“I am convinced that both Apside teams and our clients would benefit from this merger, not only because of their shared values but also because CGI’s end-to-end service offerings could accelerate the success of their digital transformations.”
