Entities managed by LGT European Capital – formerly European Capital Fund Management Limited – have arranged and underwritten EUR24 million in unitranche financing to support the acquisition of Lateral by BlueGem Capital Partners.
Founded in 1997, Lateral is a growing fast-casual dining market in Spain, focused on high-quality Spanish tapas and modern recipes. The Company operates seven restaurants in prime locations, with a differentiated concept reflecting a lifestyle associated with arts and interior design.
“European Capital is pleased to accompany BlueGem Capital Partners and the management of Lateral for the primary buyout of the Company,” says Kevin Abrial, managing director of European Capital in Paris. “We have worked with BlueGem on several occasions, and we are partnering with them again for this acquisition in Spain, as we are firmly convinced that this will enable the Company to grow in the next stages of its development.”
“European Capital has proven to be a very responsive and flexible partner,” says Marco Anatriello, co-founder and partner at BlueGem Capital Partners. “They took the time to understand the Company’s strengths and intrinsic potential. They were also very committed to delivering the best financing solution to meet the Company’s needs, which will enable growth through further roll-out of the concept.”
“We are very pleased to partner with European Capital on this transaction,” says Mercedes Moraleda, CEO of Lateral. “We appreciate their capacity to quickly understand the strategic value of our brand and positioning.”
