GERMANY. Private equity company Aurelius Group has completed its acquisition of airline catering and retail company LSG Group from the Lufthansa Group. While retaining its name, the LSG Group (including the brands LSG Sky Chefs and Retail inMotion) now becomes a standalone company.
LSG Group will continue to be led by long-time CEO Erdmann Rauer, alongside the company’s new CFO Karin Sonnenmoser. The company noted that it will continue pursuing its three-pillar strategy, which calls for growth in its main areas of business, namely classic airline catering, onboard retail and food commerce.
The company said it has the full backing and support of its new owner. Although the goals for growth and leadership in its industry remain the same, the change in ownership constitutes a symbolic new beginning for the LSG Group after more than five decades as part of Lufthansa Group, LSG Group added.
Rauer said: “Today, our company starts a new chapter in its long history, and we are excited about the unlimited possibilities ahead. We do wish to thank the leadership of Lufthansa for their many years of steady stewardship as the LSG Group evolved, adapted and grew stronger as an industry leader.
“Especially during the years of the pandemic, the LSG Group reasserted its value and resiliency as a service provider to the airline industry and beyond. We are proud to have been part of the Lufthansa Group, but are now ready and eager to embark on a new journey.
“Thank you also, of course, to the Aurelius Group for believing in our potential and their willingness to invest in our future.”
Sonnenmoser, who commenced her duties with LSG Group today, brings extensive experience from past positions at the Volkswagen Automotive Group, Zumtobel Lighting Group and electronics retailer Ceconomy.
In addition to finance and controlling, she also has a background in procurement and as a supervisory board member in different industries.
Going forward, LSG Group noted, the emphasis will be on continuity in creating value for its customers and new shareholders, while exploring new opportunities as it seeks to expand its market leadership. 
