On October 18th, 2024, MVI signed a Share Purchase Agreement (SPA) for the divestment of European Convenience Food ("ECF"). The buyer, Lambert Dodard Chancereul (“LDC”), is a leading food group with significant expertise in the sector. This is the outcome a structured M&A process led by Houlihan Lokey.
ECF has grown to become a key player in the European convenience food market since the acquisition in 2013. MVI has worked closely with the ECF board and management to drive growth and expand its presence across Europe. Through organic expansion and strategic acquisitions, ECF has increased its market share, strengthened its product portfolio, and developed a scalable business model.
ECF has evolved from a regional company to a pan-European player, benefiting from strategic investments in production capacity, product innovation, and sustainable practices. The company is well-positioned for future growth, especially considering the increasing consumer demand for high-quality, ready-to-eat food solutions.
The acquisition by LDC represents a strong strategic fit, as LDC looks to further expand its footprint in the European convenience food market. MVI believes that LDC’s extensive industry experience, combined with its operational scale, will provide ECF with a solid platform for its next phase of growth.
“We are proud of what ECF has achieved during our partnership. The company has grown into a leading player in the convenience food sector, supported by an experienced management team, a strong product portfolio that has grown in the vegetarian segment, and an increased commitment to sustainability.” says Stefan Karlsson, Partner at MVI.
M&A advisors for the transaction were Houlihan Lokey, with Roland Berger providing commercial advisory services, Deloitte as financial advisors, and Poellath/NOERR as legal counsel to ECF’s shareholders throughout the sale process. The deal is expected to close by the end of 2024, pending regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.
MVI remains committed to identifying and developing high-potential businesses that address key thematics such as sustainability and demographic changes.
About MVI:
MVI is a leading private equity investor in small and medium-sized companies. Our goal is to act as a catalyst for growth and to build long-term, resilient businesses in Sweden and across the Nordic region. MVI actively works on value creation within its portfolio companies, leveraging its broad network of entrepreneurs and business leaders. MVI is known for its ability to identify proprietary investment themes and deliver high returns on its investments. For more information about MVI and its strategic investments, please visit www.mvi.se.
For further inquiries or interview requests, please contact:
Stefan Karlsson, Partner
stefan.karlsson@mvi.se / +46 (0) 70 601 00 39