The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is investing EUR 6.7 million in a EUR 30 million sustainability-linked bond issued by Autonom, a Romanian car leasing and rental company, the bank reported in a press statetment on Tuesday.

The bank's investment will support Autonom's sustainable growth as it continues to expand and renew its car fleet to meet increased demand from local businesses.

The company has committed to ambitious sustainability targets, including reducing its carbon intensity and increasing female participation in the automotive sector. It plans to cut its operating fleet's carbon intensity emissions by 55 per cent by 2030. Autonom is also targeting an increase of women in management from 37% in 2023 to 46% by 2030.

As part of the EBRD's investment, Autonom has also committed to implementing a company-wide digital skills programme covering its entire workforce, focusing on areas such as digital literacy, data analytics and AI, further strengthening its long-term competitiveness and supporting Romania's digital transition.

'We're delighted to support Autonom's growth journey with this investment. Not only will this successful issuance help Autonom achieve its ambitious sustainability targets, but crucially, it will also contribute to the deepening of Romania's capital market. We're pleased Autonom has been able to successfully tap into the corporate bond market, and hope more companies follow suit,' says EBRD Director for Romania Victoria Zinchuk.

Founded in 2006 in Piatra Neamt by entrepreneurs Marius Stefan and Dan Stefan, Autonom has grown into the largest independent provider of integrated mobility solutions in Romania. The company expanded organically as well as via acquisitions and now has more than 600 employees, a nationwide network of over 50 agencies and a diversified client base. It operates a fleet of more than 17,600 vehicles, with around 31 per cent hybrid and electric.

The EBRD is a leading institutional investor in Romania. It has invested more than EUR12.5 billion in 594 projects in Romania. AGERPRES (RO - editing by: Constantin Balaban; EN - editing by: Corneliu-Aurelian Colceriu)

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