Sofico, a global frontrunner in providing mission-critical software for the automotive finance, leasing, fleet and mobility industry, announces, together with its current financial partner Apheon, a new strategic partnership with Astorg, a leading Pan European private equity company. This partnership underscores Sofico’s unwavering commitment to its clients and team, with Astorg actively supporting its long-term development strategy centered on sustainable growth, enduring stability, innovation leadership, and deep customer engagement.
For over three decades, the world’s premier automotive and mobility services firms have relied on Sofico’s software solutions to adapt to the shifting mobility landscape.
Established in 1998, Astorg has a track record of partnering with entrepreneurs and management teams of global, best-in-class companies headquartered in Europe or the U.S., offering them strategic guidance, governance and capital for growth.
Sofico views Astorg as more than just an investor; it’s a strategic partner that mirrors its culture, values, and mission, bringing deep software expertise to the table. This alliance aims not just to secure the company’s future but also to foster the growth of its dedicated workforce.
All Sofico’s longstanding stakeholders — co-founders Gémar Hompes (CEO) and Piet Maes (CTO), the entire leadership team, as well as Apheon — remain fully (and financially) committed for this next growth phase alongside Astorg, who takes a 51% stake. Together, they aim to turbocharge product development, enhance service offerings across regions, amplify business outreach, and tap into uncharted customer segments and markets.
Gémar Hompes, CEO at Sofico: “The interest shown by a renowned company like Astorg in Sofico is a testament to our drive for excellence, our adherence to strong company values and the pivotal role of our passionate people. Over the years, the trust and continued support of our customers have been integral to our success, and our dedication remains in providing them with superior products and services.”
Piet Maes, CTO and Co-Founder at Sofico: “We thank Apheon for their support over the past few years and look forward to the next stage of our journey together. This partnership isn’t a change in direction, but a boost in momentum. With Astorg now joining our ranks, we are gearing up for a future where we continue to lead, innovate, and set benchmarks in the automotive and mobility software sector.”
Lionel de Posson, Managing Partner, and Charles-Hubert Le Baron, Partner, of Astorg Mid-Cap, added: “We are very excited to partner with Sofico, its highly entrepreneurial leadership team, and Apheon. Ambition, innovation leadership for its customers, and a strong emphasis on nurturing talent and team engagement: these are pillars of Sofico’s culture that we also embrace fully at Astorg. As a global leader, Sofico fits perfectly with Astorg’s investment criteria, and we’re eager to champion Sofico’s next evolutionary phase.”
Pieter Lambrecht, Partner at Apheon: “It has been a privilege to support Gémar, Piet and Sofico’s outstanding team on their growth trajectory over the past years and welcoming a like-minded shareholder undoubtedly strengthens our collective ambition. Sofico’s success has always revolved around a deep-rooted commitment to values, innovation, and most importantly, customers. Together with Sofico’s management team and Astorg, we aim to achieve new milestones and further Sofico’s success.”
The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals.
