French private investor Ardian has unveiled the launch of a new business line centred on real estate and the creation of a new property subsidiary, Ardian Real Estate.

French private investor Ardian has unveiled the launch of a new business line centred on real estate and the creation of a new property subsidiary, Ardian Real Estate.

Ardian, which already counts direct investment, private debt, fund of funds and infrastructure among its business lines, has hired industry veteran Bertrand Julien-Laferrière to lead the new unit, which will focus on non-residential assets across Europe.

Julien-Laferrière’s 30-year career has included senior roles at Accor, Club Med, CGW, Unibail-Rodamco and, lastly, Société Foncière Lyonnaise (SFL), where he held the position of chief executive officer.

The property arm is planned to start investing next year with a targeted €2 bn of assets under management by 2020.

Ardian spun out from AXA (formerly AXA Private Equity) in 2013 and now has $50 bn of assets under management on behalf of 350 investors including pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, family offices and high net worth individuals.

'This launch is in response to the high demand that Ardian has received from its investors for European real estate investment opportunities, indicating the continued strength of this asset class,' an Ardian spokesperson said in a statement.

'Ardian has established itself as a leading player in the global investment industry,' commented Dominique Senequier, president of Ardian. 'The founding of this fifth pillar is a natural progression for us as we continue to evolve and develop. It will not only strengthen and diversify our offering for clients, but will also provide a substantial growth opportunity for the company.'