LGH Expands European Footprint with First Branch in France
- Meagan Wood
- Jan 28
- 3 min read
30 Second Takeaway
Global lifting gear provider LGH has launched its first French operation in Dreux, positioning the company at a key logistics crossroads near Paris while expanding its rental offering to support infrastructure, industrial, and renewable energy projects across France.
LGH Establishes First French Branch in Dreux
International lifting gear company LGH has opened its first branch in France, selecting the town of Dreux, approximately 100 kilometres west of Paris, as the base for its new operation. The move marks another milestone in the company’s ongoing international expansion strategy.
The Dreux facility is strategically located at a major logistics crossroads and is designed to serve a broad range of lifting, handling, and industrial sectors across the French market.
Fully Equipped Rental Facility
The new branch features a fully equipped warehouse stocked with an extensive range of rental lifting equipment, including:
Hoists up to 100 tonnes
Gantry systems
Hydraulic jacking equipment
Rigging gear, including slings and modular spreader beams
Material handling and load-moving systems
The facility will be managed by Koffi Ahawo, with commercial support from account manager Lorenzo du Burck.
Local Support and Regional Endorsement
The official opening of the facility was led by Dreux mayor Frédéric Billet, who welcomed LGH’s investment in the region.
“The establishment of LGH France's first branch in Dreux is excellent news for our region. This choice testifies to the confidence of an international player in the dynamism and attractiveness of our city, located at the heart of a strategic logistics crossroads, and is recognition of the work carried out over several years to make Dreux a welcoming location for innovative and job-creating companies.”
Strategic Growth Aligned with Energy Transition
LGH Europe chief executive Andy Mault described the move into France as a natural progression for the company.
“The expansion of LGH to France is a logical step in our international growth process after successful operations in North America and, most recently, Australia. France offers great opportunities in infrastructure, ports and energy – especially in the transition to solar and wind energy.”
LGH France will also support specialist lifting operations through the Ganterud line of load turners, expanding its capability for complex load handling applications.
A Global Company with Family Ownership
Founded in 1970 by Bill Parkinson in the UK, LGH has built a global reputation in lifting and rigging solutions. The company expanded into the United States in 1990, later refocusing its operations to support North American growth before returning to the UK in 2016.
Today, LGH operates:
Five locations in the UK
Branches in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany
Around 20 locations across North America
And now its first branch in France
The business remains family-owned and managed by the Parkinson family.
About LGH
LGH is a global provider of lifting gear rental, rigging equipment, and engineered lifting solutions, serving industries including infrastructure, energy, ports, manufacturing, and heavy industry. Known for its technical expertise and comprehensive rental inventory, LGH supports complex lifting and load-handling projects worldwide.
Website: https://www.lgh.eu
Frequently Asked Questions
What equipment is available at LGH France?
LGH France offers hoists up to 100 tonnes, gantries, hydraulic jacking systems, rigging equipment such as slings and modular spreader beams, and material handling solutions.
Why was Dreux chosen for LGH’s French branch?
Dreux was selected due to its strategic logistics location, regional accessibility, and strong support for industrial and job-creating businesses.
Who manages LGH’s French operation?
The Dreux facility is managed by Koffi Ahawo, supported by account manager Lorenzo du Burck.
What markets is LGH targeting in France?
LGH is focusing on infrastructure, ports, and energy projects, particularly supporting France’s solar and wind energy transition.
