Lyon, France – In a strategic move to bolster economic real estate development across the Lyon Métropole and Rhône regions, Serl (Société d’équipement et d’aménagement du Rhône et de Lyon) has successfully secured a €4 million capital increase. The decision, validated on Thursday, December 18, 2025, brought together key stakeholders including local authorities, institutional partners, and major banks, all committed to enhancing Serl’s investment capacity in vital economic projects.
Strategic Mobilization of Public and Private Funds
The capital injection saw significant contributions from both public and private entities. The Métropole de Lyon led with an investment of €1.5 million, while the Department of Rhône contributed €0.5 million. The remaining €2 million was mobilized by a consortium of financial institutions and economic chambers, including the Banque des Territoires, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) Lyon Métropole Saint-Étienne Roanne, Caisse d’Épargne Rhône-Alpes, Lyonnaise de Banque, and Crédit Agricole Centre-Est.
Hélène Geoffroy, President of Serl, emphasized the collective commitment behind this initiative. “This capital increase is a testament to the shared vision of our partners to foster robust economic growth and create opportunities within our territories,” she stated during the announcement.
Expansion for Serl Immo Subsidiary in 2026
In parallel with this capital increase, Serl also confirmed plans for a capital increase and opening of capital for its subsidiary, Serl Immo. This secondary operation is slated to take effect during the first half of 2026. It will involve Serl, the Banque des Territoires, the CCI Lyon Métropole Saint-Étienne Roanne, and Caisse d’Épargne Rhône-Alpes.
Explaining the financial mechanics of this expansion, Hélène Geoffroy detailed, “We will inject €8.2 million into Serl Immo, and our three partners will contribute an additional €11.3 million. Through this leverage effect, Serl Immo will command €50.6 million in equity, enabling it to undertake over €200 million in investments for the development of economic real estate projects.”
Ambitious Projects Already Underway
Even before the full realization of these investments, nearly €100 million of the projected €200 million is already allocated to projects initiated by Serl’s teams. These include significant developments such as the industrial revitalization of Givors on the former Fives brownfield site, the creation of a business village in the Zac du Mas du Taureau in Vaulx-en-Velin, and strategic land and property management in the Lybertec zone in Belleville-en-Beaujolais. These projects underscore Serl’s proactive approach to regional economic development.
Banque des Territoires and CCI Emphasize Economic Importance
The Banque des Territoires Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, poised to enter Serl Immo’s capital following this operation, highlighted its dedication to economic development. Philippe Jusserand, President of the Banque des Territoires, commented, “Whether it involves creating business villages, industrial buildings, or commercial spaces, this project is unique in France, both in its scale and its scope, covering the Métropole de Lyon and the Department of Rhône.”
Myriam Bencharaa, President of the Lyon delegation of the CCI Lyon Métropole Saint-Étienne Roanne, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the critical importance of economic land availability. “The issue of economic land is a priority today. In a context of scarcity that penalizes the development of our businesses, it was logical for us to play our part in this ambitious public-private project,” she explained.
This combined effort marks a significant step forward for economic development in the region, providing Serl with the necessary resources to drive impactful real estate initiatives that will benefit local businesses and communities for years to come.
