# SoftBank Plans AI Data Center Investment in France

SoftBank Group Corp. announced a major investment plan to build 5 gigawatts of AI data center capacity in France, committing approximately €75 billion (about $87 billion) by 2031. The first phase, valued at €45 billion, will focus on the Hauts-de-France region. This initiative aligns with the French Government's sovereign AI strategy and involves partnerships with Schneider Electric SE, OpenAI, and Oracle Corporation. Concurrently, Candex is increasing its engagement in the digital procurement ecosystem through award nominations and participation in key industry events, enhancing its visibility among procurement and finance leaders.

- **Why this matters:** SoftBank's large-scale investment signals significant growth in AI infrastructure procurement opportunities in France, potentially influencing global AI data center development trends.
- Procurement professionals should note the involvement of major technology partners and regional focus for strategic sourcing and partnership opportunities.
- Candex's active presence in procurement technology events highlights evolving digital tools that procurement organizations may consider integrating.
- Organizations involved in AI infrastructure, data center construction, and procurement technology should evaluate potential collaborations or competitive positioning in this expanding market.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Information Technology
**Topics:** Cloud Services, Artificial Intelligence
**Published:** May 30, 2026

### Government Entities
- French Government
- Procurement Leaders
- Institute of Finance and Management (IOFM)
- Gartner
- Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)

### Vendors
- SoftBank Group Corp. (investment holding company)
- Candex (platform provider)
- Schneider Electric SE (partner at Dunkirk AI data center site)
- OpenAI (partner in AI data center initiative)
- Oracle Corporation (partner in AI data center initiative)

### Key Quotes
> He was 7very impressed8 by Macron6s personal commitment to France6s economic success.
> — Masayoshi Son, Founder of SoftBank

### Sources
- [Candex Strengthens Procurement Ecosystem Presence with Awards Nods and Event Push - TipRanks.com](https://www.tipranks.com/news/private-companies/candex-strengthens-procurement-ecosystem-presence-with-awards-nods-and-event-push) - TipRanks