Press & News
Private equity firm EMERAM invests in frostkrone, the leading producer of frozen finger food
Munich, 24 February 2017 - Funds advised by the Munich-based private equity firm EMERAM Capital Partners GmbH ("EMERAM") are investing in frostkrone Gruppe ("frostkrone") in partnership with the CEO of the company to support the onward growth strategy of frostkrone, the innovative trendsetter in the frozen finger food segment. A sale agreement to this effect has been signed with the independent private investment company Ardian. The parties have agreed not to disclose the sale price. The transaction remains subject to antitrust approval.
frostkrone produces an extensive range of frozen finger food, from cheese-based products (e.g. mozzarella sticks) and vegetable snacks (e.g. vegetable nuggets) to meat- or fish-based snacks (e.g. corn dogs). The products meet the highest quality standards and are sold to discounters, food retailers and quick service restaurants.
Frédéric Dervieux, CEO of frostkrone, said: "Since 2013 we have taken comprehensive internal measures, such as establishing a new Innovation Department and professionalising our processes, to position frostkrone for future international growth. In recent years, frostkrone has established itself as Europe's innovation leader for frozen finger food, and it still has huge growth potential for the years to come. The management team is very much looking forward to working with EMERAM. EMERAM is the ideal partner for our future growth plans. Through international expansion with existing and new customers in our three main sales channels, we intend to further strengthen our leading position. EMERAM has extensive experience and expertise both in our target markets for expansion and in our customer landscape. It offers us access to a valuable network and shares our vision of frostkrone's future development."
Dr Christian Näther, Founding Partner of EMERAM Capital Partners, commented: "In the frozen finger food market we are seeing many growth trends that apply to all sales channels in almost all countries. Frédéric Dervieux and his team have succeeded in building an outstanding position in this niche. As the undisputed leader in innovation and quality, frostkrone is uniquely placed to generate further growth in the European frozen finger food market. We look forward to supporting Mr Dervieux and his team on this journey."
EMERAM capital partners was advised by GLNS (legal), Alvarez & Marsal (finance), Götzpartners (commercial), Flick Gocke Schaumburg (tax), Ramboll Environ (environmental), Shearman & Sterling LLP (financing) and Willis Towers Watson (insurance).
The Frostkrone Food Group is a global market leader for frozen finger food, street food and snack products. It sells its diverse, innovative products in food retail outlets and in the food service sector in over 50 countries. Established in 1997, Frostkrone has gone on to become a global player with over 750 employees at six production sites in Germany, France, the UK and the USA.
EMERAM Capital Partners is a leading equity investment company for SMEs in German-speaking countries. As a business development partner, we foster the long-term growth of our portfolio companies with capital and expertise.
The funds advised by EMERAM invest in the consumer, technology/software and service sectors. Their total volume currently stands at EUR 400 million. In general, the funds acquire a significant stake in the company and give the respective management team an opportunity to invest, too.