What Traction Levage does

Traction Levage S.A.S. is a French specialist in the manufacture and distribution of metal wire ropes, chains, slings, and associated lifting devices, headquartered in Gardanne, Bouches-du-Rhône, and operating through six regional agencies covering Marseille, Strasbourg, Lyon (Saint-Laurent de Mure), Paris (Le Blanc Mesnil), Nantes (Les Sorinières), and Bordeaux (Canéjan). The company was founded in 1963 as a lifting-equipment specialist and is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Lifting Solutions Group within the Swedish conglomerate Axel Johnson International, giving it access to over 100 international manufacturing locations and the CERTEX Renewables division for wind-energy customers.

The technical core of the offering combines in-house production of wire-rope and chain/textile slings, distribution rights for more than 30 international lifting brands (Crosby, Green Pin, KITO, Tractel, BRIDON, RUD, CMCO, Verope, Gustav Wolf, REMA, Elephant, Tiger, Red Rooster, MURLINK, Lift-Tex/Extreema, Straightpoint, WALMAG, Forankra, Feltes, Verlinde, Thern, Talurit, WIRELOCK, YOKE, CODIPRO, Kratos Safety, JDT), and three proprietary retail brands — POWERTEX, ROPETEX, and the 2025-launched Aspire™ sustainable range — plus MURLINK synthetic chain. Differentiated service offerings include the proprietary Magnetic Rope Testing (MRT / Ropewatcher) for contactless internal/external inspection of steel wire ropes, and Periodic General Inspection (VGP) with on-site and in-workshop dynamic test-bench validation.

Revenue is generated through three streams: one-time sales of manufactured and distributed lifting products, recurring professional-service inspection work (MRT and VGP), and rental plus repair of pneumatic hoists and trolleys (Red Rooster). Pricing is quote-based rather than published; the company reaches customers via direct field sales inside its regional agencies, an inside-sales team handling website quote requests, technical catalogs, a Lifting KnowHow content library, social channels (LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube), and industry events such as Euromaritime. End markets span elevator, construction (BTP), renewables (wind), offshore and maritime, entertainment, rockfall protection, electrical networks, and transport/lashing, with named enterprise customers including EDF, Sappi, major metallurgical/siderurgical groups, and several autonomous maritime ports.

Name

Traction Levage

Legal name

TRACTION LEVAGE S.A.S.

Website

https://traclev.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

1963

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

51–100 employees

Short description

Traction Levage S.A.S. is a French specialist that manufactures and distributes steel wire ropes, chains, slings, and lifting devices — and offers proprietary Magnetic Rope Testing inspection services — to enterprise customers across elevator, construction, renewables, offshore, metallurgy, and port sectors via six nationwide agencies, as a subsidiary of Axel Johnson International's Lifting Solutions Group.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Industrial Lifting Equipment

NAICS

Overhead Traveling Crane, Hoist, and Monorail System Manufacturing (333923)

SIC

Construction, Mining & Materials Handling Machinery & Equip (3530), Construction Machinery & Equip (3531)

akta.pro primary industry

Crane & Hoist Components (Wire Rope, Chain, Drums, Sheaves, Motors, Controls) (IMAHAJAK)

akta.pro secondary industries

Lifting Accessories & Rigging (Slings, Shackles, Hooks, Spreaders) (IMAHAJAI), Hoists (Electric, Manual & Pneumatic) (IMAHAJAG)

Keywords

• Lifting equipment distribution
• Wire rope manufacturing
• Industrial rigging supplies
• Lifting accessories
• Material handling products

Headquarters

HQ city

Mimet

HQ country

France

HQ region

Europe

Offices7 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Supply Chain, Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Lifting Products Manufacturing and Distribution: Traction Levage manufactures cables and slings (chain, wire rope, textile) and trades apparatus and accessories. Revenue is generated from the sale of these physical lifting products, spare parts, and related consumables to industrial customers.
2. Inspection and Testing Services: The company generates revenue through periodic general inspections (VGP), hydraulic system inspections, and Magnetic Rope Testing (MRT) services performed on-site or in the workshop.
3. Rental and Repair Services: Through brands such as Red Rooster, Traction Levage offers rental and repair of pneumatic hoists and trolleys, generating recurring service revenue alongside product sales.

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels3 records

Marketing channels7 records

Core offering

Traction Levage manufactures and distributes metal cables (steel wire ropes), lifting chains, slings (wire rope, chain, textile), lifting devices (hoists, cranes, winches, magnets, jacks, sheaves), lifting accessories, and personal protective equipment for fall protection. The company also provides on-site and in-workshop inspection services, including proprietary Magnetic Rope Testing (MRT) and Periodic General Inspection (VGP), along with custom-engineered lifting solutions for specialized industrial applications.

Product overview

Traction Levage is a French specialist in the manufacture and distribution of lifting equipment, operating as part of the Lifting Solutions Group. The company offers a comprehensive portfolio organized around core product categories: steel wire ropes (including standard, anti-rotating, high-performance, elevator, and stainless steel variants), lifting chains (HR and stainless steel), slings (wire rope, chain, and textile), lifting devices (chain hoists, lever hoists, electric/pneumatic hoists, cranes, lifting beams, winches, magnets, jacks), lifting accessories (cable hardware, chain components, shackles, swivels, eyebolts), personal protective equipment (fall arrest, harnesses, anchors), and specialized services including MRT (Magnetic Rope Testing) for non-destructive wire rope inspection and Periodic General Inspection (VGP). The company distributes multiple branded product lines including its proprietary POWERTEX and ROPETEX brands, as well as third-party brands such as Red Rooster (pneumatic hoists), MURLINK (synthetic chains), Lift-tex/Extreema (heavy lift HMPE slings), Elephant, KITO, Tiger, Rema, and Tractel. Recent additions include the sustainable Aspire™ product range and specialized equipment for renewables, offshore, maritime, construction, and entertainment industry sectors.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• Aspire™: A more sustainable choice for the lifting industry - launched as a sustainable product range

Products and services

• POWERTEX POWERTEX is Traction Levage's proprietary cost-effective brand of lifting, lashing, and fall protection products for everyday industrial use. RFID-equipped, QR-coded, EN-standard compliant.
• ROPETEX ROPETEX is Traction Levage's private-label steel wire rope brand offered as a cost-effective alternative to premium brands, with focus on quality, safety, and ethical sourcing.
• Steel Wire Ropes Full range of steel wire ropes including standard, anti-rotating, high-performance, elevator, forestry, rockfall protection, and stainless steel variants for industrial lifting applications.
• Lifting Chains High-resistance (HR) lifting chains and stainless steel chains for various lifting applications.
• Lifting Slings Complete range of wire rope slings, chain slings, and textile slings for multiple lifting configurations and load capacities.
• Lifting Devices Wide range of lifting machines including chain hoists, lever hoists, electric hoists, pneumatic hoists, trolleys, jib cranes, portable cranes, lifting beams, coil hooks, winches, lifting magnets, jacks, sheaves, dynamometers, and handling equipment.
• Lifting Accessories Comprehensive accessories including wire rope accessories (thimbles, sleeves, clips, terminations), chain accessories (grades 80 and 100), shackles, swivels, lifting eyes, turnbuckles, and stainless steel accessories.
• Personal Protective Equipment Fall protection equipment including fall arresters, harnesses, connectors, and anchor points for work at height.
• Red Rooster Pneumatic Hoists Pneumatic hoists and trolleys for sale, rental, and repair with safe working loads from 125 kg to 100 tons. ATEX-classified variants available for explosive environments.
• MURLINK Synthetic Chains MURLINK synthetic chains are 80% lighter than steel chains with equivalent breaking loads. Can be used for lifting or lashing applications.
• Extreema Heavy Lift Slings (Lift-Tex) Extreema heavy lift slings available from 0.5t to 8,000t MBL using HMPE/UHMWPE fibers including bio-based Dyneema, lengths from 0.2m to 65m.
• MRT (Magnetic Rope Testing) Service Contactless, non-destructive internal and external examination of steel wire ropes using magnetic properties. Detects broken wires, deformations, and corrosion without damaging the cable. Used across elevator, port, nuclear, hydraulic, mountain cable cars, and industrial applications.
• Periodic General Inspection (VGP) Service On-site and in-workshop periodic general inspections of lifting devices and accessories following manufacturers' recommendations, with dynamic test bench validation and IMO colour-coded seal system for traceability.
• Aspire Sustainable Lifting Range Aspire is a sustainable lifting product range launched by Traction Levage, offering a more sustainable choice for the lifting industry.

Quantifiable outcome

• MRT service detects both external and internal broken wires, deformations, and corrosion in steel wire ropes without damaging the cable

Named customers4 records

Segments8 records

Ideal customer profiles7 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature3 records

Partnerships

32 partnerships are on record, tiered minor and core.

• EuromaritimeminorOthers · 1 January 2026Traction Levage participates in the Euromaritime trade show, an annual maritime industry exhibition, to showcase its products and connect with maritime sector customers.
• Lifting Solutions Group (Axel Johnson International)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerTraction Levage is a member of the Lifting Solutions Group, part of Axel Johnson International, a global industrial group. This affiliation provides access to over 100 manufacturing locations across Europe, USA, Australia, and China, enabling the CERTEX Renewables division and international reach.
• Red Rooster (Rami Yokota brand)coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorRed Rooster specializes in pneumatic hoists (125 kg to 100 tonnes), renting, selling, and repairing air-powered hoists and trolleys. Parts manufactured in Japan and Europe under ISO 9001:2008. ATEX-classified models available. Used in offshore oil/gas, shipyards, foundries, and chemical plants.
• POWERTEX (own brand / private label)coreTechnology or IntegrationPOWERTEX is a lifting solutions brand under the Lifting Solutions Group offering cost-effective lifting, lashing, and fall protection products for everyday industrial use. Distributed exclusively by Traction Levage. Features RFID-equipped equipment, QR code documentation, and compliance with EN standards.
• MURLINK (own brand / private label)coreTechnology or IntegrationMURLINK synthetic chains are 80% lighter than steel chains with equivalent breaking loads. Can be used for lifting or lashing. Significantly reduces risk of damaging lifted or secured goods. Distributed exclusively by Traction Levage.
• Lift-Tex (Extreema)coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorLift-Tex Industrie b.v. (Dutch manufacturer) produces Extreema heavy lift slings in HMPE/UHMWPE (including bio-based Dyneema) with MBL up to 8,000 tonnes and lengths from 0.2 m to 65 m. ISO 9001-2015 certified by DNV/GL. Traction Levage distributes these products in France.
• ROPETEX (own brand / private label)coreTechnology or IntegrationROPETEX is a private-label steel wire rope brand under the Lifting Solutions Group, offered alongside POWERTEX as a cost-effective alternative to premium brands, with a focus on quality, safety, and ethical sourcing.
• Aspire (own brand / private label)coreTechnology or IntegrationAspire is a sustainable lifting product range launched by Traction Levage, positioning itself as 'a more sustainable choice for the lifting industry.' Available as a downloadable catalog.
• CODIPROminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorCODIPRO is represented in Traction Levage's showroom. Specializes in lifting eyes and rings. Traction Levage regularly stocks CODIPRO products such as SEB-UP lifting rings.
• CROSBYcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorCROSBY is a globally recognized brand in lifting hardware (shackles, hooks, master links). Distributed through Traction Levage's network of agencies.
• TRACTELcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorTRACTEL is a major lifting equipment brand distributed by Traction Levage. Products include the PalTurn load rotator and Palanmatic manual hoist. Tractive Levage has a dedicated showroom section for Tractel products.
• KITOcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorKITO is a Japanese manufacturer of chain hoists (CX and CB series) and manual hoists, distributed by Traction Levage. Products feature shock-resistant casings, precision gears, and overload protection.
• Tiger (TSF International)minorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorTiger produces spark-resistant chain blocks (SS12 series) compliant with ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU and Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, suitable for gas (Zone 1&2) and dust (Zone 21&22) hazardous areas.
• Elephant Chain BlockscoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorElephant produces C-21 manual chain hoists (up to 5 tonnes) and PIH/H100 cleanroom chain hoists for controlled environments. Traction Levage distributes these alongside its own brands.
• RUDcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorRUD is a German manufacturer of lifting hardware including ROV hooks for offshore applications. Traction Levage features RUD products in its offshore product category and weekly selections.
• Straightpoint (SP)minorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorStraightpoint manufactures wireless dynamometers and load shackles (load cells) distributed by Traction Levage for load monitoring and force measurement applications.
• WALMAGminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorWALMAG produces lifting magnets (BM series) distributed by Traction Levage for magnetic lifting applications.
• Green PincoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorGreen Pin is a global leader in shackles for lifting and rigging, distributed by Traction Levage across France.
• VeropecoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorVerope manufactures high-performance steel wire ropes (Veropower 8 series) and pneumatic hoist components, distributed by Traction Levage.
• VerlindeminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorVerlinde produces EUROBLOC VT electric cable hoists distributed by Traction Levage for industrial lifting applications.
• Gustav WolfcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorGustav Wolf is a manufacturer of elevator wire ropes (PAWO F7 series) and specialized cables, distributed by Traction Levage for the elevator sector.
• ThernminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorThern manufactures portable cranes (Captain 5FT25 series) distributed by Traction Levage for mobile lifting applications.
• YOKEminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorYOKE is represented in Traction Levage's showroom. YOKE produces forged cargo control and lifting hardware including hooks, shackles, and master links.
• ForankraminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorForankra supplies lashing webbings and straps (25 mm 2200 daN) distributed by Traction Levage for the transport and lashing sector.
• FeltesminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorFeltes produces aluminum portable gantries (moveable under load) distributed by Traction Levage for workshop handling applications.
• REMAcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorREMA (Pieter van der Linde) manufactures X-Line hand chain hoists with asbestos-free friction discs and galvanized load chains, distributed by Traction Levage.
• TaluritminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorTalurit produces mechanical splicing systems for wire rope terminations, distributed by Traction Levage as 'The Original Mechanical Splicing Systems.'
• WIRELOCKminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorWIRELOCK produces wire rope socketing systems for terminations, distributed by Traction Levage.
• BRIDONcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorBRIDON is a global manufacturer of steel wire ropes for lifting and engineering applications, distributed by Traction Levage.
• Columbus McKinnon (CMCO)coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorColumbus McKinnon is a global lifting equipment manufacturer distributed by Traction Levage. CMCO has a dedicated showroom section at Traction Levage.
• JDTcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorJDT produces webbing slings and lashing equipment, distributed by Traction Levage.
• Kratos SafetyminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorKratos Safety manufactures fall protection and personal protective equipment (antichutes, harnesses) distributed by Traction Levage.

Scale indicators3 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Direct peers

• SpanSet: European specialist in lifting and load-securing equipment, including textile slings, lashing systems and height safety. Comparable to Traction Levage's textile sling and transport/lashing categories with overlapping customer segments.
• Kito Corporation: Japanese manufacturer of manual and electric chain hoists, lever hoists and crane components. Directly comparable as one of Traction Levage's distributed brands and as a global competitor in the chain hoist category.
• RUD Ketten Rieger & Dietz: German manufacturer of lifting and lashing chains, hooks, and offshore lifting hardware. Overlaps directly with Traction Levage's chain, sling and offshore product ranges (notably ROV hooks for offshore).
• Tractel: French-headquartered global manufacturer and distributor of lifting equipment, hoists, fall protection and load-monitoring products. Comparable to Traction Levage in product scope (hoists, slings, wire rope accessories), customer base (construction, energy, industry) and distribution model.
• Pewag: Austrian manufacturer of chains and lifting/lashing systems. Directly comparable to Traction Levage in chain slings, lashing equipment and industrial chain offerings across European markets.
• Verlinde: French/European manufacturer of electric hoists, overhead cranes and material handling systems. Comparable to Traction Levage's distributed electric hoist and crane product categories with strong European overlap.
• CERTEX (Axel Johnson International): Sibling division of Traction Levage within Lifting Solutions Group (Axel Johnson International). Operates as a lifting equipment distributor across multiple European markets with shared product portfolio and brand relationships, making it the closest structural peer.

Broad incumbents

• Columbus McKinnon: Global manufacturer of hoists, cranes, rigging and lifting solutions headquartered in the US. Competes with Traction Levage's distributed brands across chain hoists, lever hoists and material handling, but on a much larger global scale and with an OEM (not distribution-led) model.
• Crosby Group: Global leader in lifting hardware (shackles, hooks, master links, wire rope fittings). A distributed brand within Traction Levage's portfolio and a direct competitor in the rigging hardware category worldwide.

Regional players

• Gunnebo Industries (Lifting division): European manufacturer of lifting equipment and material handling products. Comparable product portfolio (hoists, cranes, chains, slings), primarily active in Nordic and broader European markets rather than directly competing in France.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat4 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• YouTubeyoutube.com/channel/UCb1w1TJAgMbSf_39en8scvg
• Facebookfacebook.com/traclev
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/tractionlevage
• Instagraminstagram.com/tractionlegung

Compliance10 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles1 record

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Traction Levage