M&A and Private Equity recent activity in Spain – Status in Good4U Food & Food Supplements
Wellbeing is one of the main trends that we are currently experiencing, also driven by the pandemic. Therefore, the growth of markets such as healthy food, supplements, sports nutrition or plant-based food will not surprise anyone. As we know, growth trends attract investment and this is reflected in a very dynamic M&A and Private Equity market, as we will see below.
Spain in particular is a reference as far as food is concerned, as demonstrated by the major industry events that take place in our country. To maintain this leadership, it is essential to continue innovating, an aspect in which Spain also stands out in view of the large number of Foodtech startups in our country. So, how has this translated into deal activity?
The healthy food & supplements industry has experienced significant movements in recent years.
This trend seems to continue in 2023. Just a few days ago Nazca Capital acquired a minority stake in the shareholding of 226ERS, a company specialized in sports nutrition.
Below we highlight our selection of operations from recent years:
Abac Capital takes a majority interest in the leading manufacturer of natural antioxidants, BTSA.
Nexxus Iberia has invested in Chef Sam, a company that supports brands with sustainable and healthy food concepts in their international expansion and innovation strategies and new product launches.
Kensing, owned by One Rock Capital Partners, has acquired Vitae Naturals, previously owned by Oquendo Capital. Its main line of business uses natural derivatives of vitamin E that are mainly used in vitamin supplements and as natural antioxidants.
Within baby food, DeA Capital, the manager of the Italian group De Agostini, acquired a majority of Alnut, a supplier to Mercadona. On the other hand, Smileat, manufacturer of healthy and ecological baby food products, has recently acquired a factory from Midsona in Andalusia. Smileat’s capital includes funds such as Quadia, Creas Fondo Social and Clave.
In addition to the recent entry into the sports nutrition firm 226ERS, Nazca Capital has in its portfolio Nutris, specialized in functional gummies, or Laboratorios Almond, manufacturer and distributor of vegan and ecological food.
It is worth noting also companies that are currently on the market. Frias Nutricion, a plant-based food manufacturer launched its sale process last year. Apparently the transaction has been put on hold after the binding offers received did not meet the expectations of the shareholders. Private Equity firm Alantra is the majority shareholder.
All of these transactions have been backed by Food Experts in strategies and marketing working together with Financial advisors
