A number of PE firms including BC Partners and CVC are evaluating a potential acquisition of Italian coffee producer Segafredo Zanetti as majority shareholder QuattroR considers an exit from the business, according to a report by Reuters.
The report cites unnamed sources familiar with the matter as revealing that the are firms reviewing a possible offer for the company, while Bain Capital and Capvest are also assessing a potential investment.
QuattroR, which acquired a controlling stake in Segafredo Zanetti in April 2024, is understood to be working with financial adviser Lazard on the process. The private equity firm owns more than 70% of the coffee group.
Founded by the Zanetti family in the 1960s, Segafredo Zanetti has built an international portfolio of coffee brands that includes Segafredo, Boncafe and Chock full o’ Nuts. The business was listed on the stock market in 2015 but struggled to gain traction with investors as challenging industry conditions weighed on its share price. The founding family subsequently took the company private in 2020 following a buyout completed during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The business is forecast to generate more than €1bn in revenue this year, with EBITDA expected to reach approximately €120m, according to one of the sources.
Despite interest from several financial sponsors, no formal bids have yet been submitted. Sources cautioned that any sale process is likely to be complex and there is no certainty that a transaction will ultimately be completed.
