The food packaging industry in DACH, comprising Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, is a dynamic sector focused on delivering innovative and sustainable packaging solutions. It plays a pivotal role in the safe delivery of food products, with companies producing everything from biodegradable wraps to advanced plastic containers. As consumer demand shifts towards environmentally-friendly materials, innovation is driving changes in packaging design and materials. The industry's future lies in smart packaging technologies that enhance food safety, extend shelf life, and reduce waste, reflecting a growing commitment to sustainability and efficiency in food distribution and consumption.

The list of investors in the DACH food packaging sector includes a mix of corporate giants, private equity firms, and venture capitalists, hailing from cities like Zurich and Essen. Ranging in size from companies with thousands of employees to boutique firms with a handful, these investors—established between 1864 and 2021—show a strong dedication to sustainable food solutions. In 2024, these firms executed numerous investments, highlighting their proactive approach to developing efficient packaging technologies and practices.

Top 15 Food Packaging Investors in DACH

1. Blue Horizon

• Website: bluehorizon.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn: bluehorizoncorp

Blue Horizon is a Zurich-based venture capital firm founded in 2016, dedicated to investing in sustainable food systems. The firm supports mission-aligned founders in the bioeconomy by providing funding and resources to scale innovative solutions, particularly in alternative proteins and sustainable practices. Notably, Blue Horizon has made significant investments in the food packaging sector, including a $25 million funding round for Tipa, an Israel-based company specializing in compostable flexible packaging solutions. This investment aims to enhance Tipa's growth and expand its sustainable packaging portfolio. Additionally, Blue Horizon has invested in other food-related companies, such as Cubiq Foods, which focuses on producing omega-3s, further emphasizing their commitment to sustainable food innovations.

2. Amcor

• Website: amcor.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
• Founded year: 1864
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: amcor

Amcor is a corporate investor based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 1864. As a packaging manufacturer, Amcor specializes in innovative and responsible packaging solutions for various industries, including food, beverage, healthcare, and personal care. The company is committed to sustainability, aiming to make all its products recyclable or reusable by 2025. Amcor has made significant investments in the food packaging sector, including the acquisition of Sonoco in 2016, Nampak Flexible in 2015, and Detmold Flexibles in 2013, which enhance its flexible packaging capabilities. These transactions demonstrate Amcor's strategic focus on expanding its presence in the food packaging market and meeting the increasing demand for high-quality, sustainable packaging solutions.

3. Nestlé

• Website: nestle.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Vevey, Vaud, Switzerland
• Founded year: 1866
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn: nestle-s-a-

Nestlé S.A. is a multinational food and beverage company based in Vevey, Vaud, Switzerland, founded in 1866. With over 10,000 employees, Nestlé offers a diverse range of products, including coffee, dairy, and pet care items, serving both consumers and businesses globally. The company is committed to sustainability and innovation in its product offerings. Notably, Nestlé has made significant acquisitions that enhance its portfolio in the food sector, such as the acquisition of Yinlu in 2018, Mindful Chef in 2020, and Technocom, a Ukrainian maker of culinary dehydrated products, in 2010. These acquisitions not only expand their product range but also imply a need for effective food packaging solutions. Furthermore, Nestlé's participation in the Series A funding round for Loop Global Holdings, a platform focused on reusable packaging, highlights their commitment to sustainable packaging practices, making them a relevant player in the food packaging industry.

4. Brenntag

• Website: brenntag.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
• Founded year: 1874
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 8
• LinkedIn: brenntag

Brenntag SE, founded in 1874 and headquartered in Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a leading chemical distributor that connects chemical manufacturers with users across various industries. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, Brenntag serves approximately 195,000 customers, providing a wide range of specialty and industrial chemicals along with value-added services. Notably, Brenntag has made strategic acquisitions to enhance its position in the food sector, including the acquisition of JM Swank Co., a US-based food ingredients distributor, for USD 304 million in 2021. This acquisition is expected to significantly boost Brenntag's Nutrition business in North America, creating a leading distributor with approximately USD 1 billion in revenue. Additionally, Brenntag has expanded its operations in the food sector through other acquisitions, such as Trend Gida in 2008, which further solidifies its role in the food supply chain.

5. Beyond Impact VC

• Website: beyondimpact.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Montreux, Vaud, Switzerland
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn: beyond-impact-advisors

Beyond Impact VC is a venture capital firm based in Montreux, Vaud, Switzerland, founded in 2017. The firm specializes in investing in sustainable and animal-free products and services, focusing on early-stage companies that promote vegan lifestyles and technologies that replace animal-derived products. Their investment strategy is aimed at supporting innovative and compassionate business models that align with the values of accredited investors and organizations. Notable transactions include a Series A investment in Yeastup, which raised approximately $9.95 million in December 2024, and a significant Series B investment in The EVERY Company, which raised $40 million in April 2019. These investments reflect their commitment to supporting companies that are likely to influence the food industry, including potential advancements in food packaging solutions that cater to plant-based products.

6. Coveris Group

• Website: coveris.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Vienna, Vienna, Austria
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn: coverisgroup

Coveris Group is a corporate investor based in Vienna, Austria, founded in 2013. The company specializes in flexible and sustainable packaging solutions, serving various industries including food, medical, and agricultural sectors. Coveris is committed to minimizing waste through innovative packaging technologies that enhance product safety and extend shelf life. Notable transactions include the acquisition of PACCOR International, which strengthens their position in the food packaging market, and the acquisition of Elldex Packaging Solutions for $30 million, allowing them to expand operations into Australasia and rebrand it as Coveris Australasia. These strategic acquisitions demonstrate Coveris's commitment to growth within the food packaging sector.

7. Partners Group

• Website: partnersgroup.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 19
• LinkedIn: partners-group

Partners Group Holding AG is a prominent investment management firm based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, specializing in private equity, private infrastructure, private real estate, and private debt. Founded in 1996, the firm manages over USD 149 billion in assets and is recognized for its innovative approach and commitment to sustainability. Among their notable transactions, Partners Group acquired Packaging Coordinators Midco, Inc. for $525 million, which is a key player in providing packaging solutions within the healthcare sector. This acquisition highlights their strategic interest in the food packaging industry. Additionally, they raised $81.9 million for Alltub Group, which is also involved in packaging, further emphasizing their engagement in this market. Their diverse investment strategy allows them to navigate various sectors, including food packaging, while also focusing on sustainability and growth.

8. ALPLA Group

• Website: alpla.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Hard, Vorarlberg, Austria
• Founded year: 1955
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn: alpla

ALPLA Group is a leading packaging manufacturer based in Hard, Vorarlberg, Austria, founded in 1955. With over 10,000 employees, the company specializes in innovative plastic packaging solutions that cater to various industries, including food, beverage, beauty care, and pharmaceuticals. ALPLA is committed to sustainability and customer satisfaction, providing high-quality bottles, caps, and recycling services. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Wolf Plastics, which enhances their product portfolio in Central and South-Eastern Europe, and the acquisition of Star East Pet, a Romanian PET preform manufacturer, aimed at strengthening their production capacities in Eastern Europe. These strategic moves underscore ALPLA's focus on expanding its footprint in the food packaging sector.

9. Deutsche Beteiligungs AG

• Website: dbag.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
• Founded year: 1965
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn: deutsche-beteiligungs-ag

Deutsche Beteiligungs AG is a private equity firm based in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, specializing in investments in mid-sized companies. Founded in 1965, the firm focuses on providing capital and advisory services to enhance the growth potential of its portfolio companies. With over 55 years of experience, DBAG operates a successful fund advisory business. Notably, DBAG has made significant investments in the food packaging sector, including the acquisition of Cartonplast Group, a company specializing in reusable plastic packaging solutions, and Infiana Group, which produces specialty films used in food packaging applications. These transactions highlight DBAG's commitment to enhancing its portfolio in the food packaging industry, alongside its broader investment strategy that includes sectors such as telecommunications, IT services, software, and healthcare.

10. Capvis AG

• Website: capvis.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: capvis

Capvis AG is a private equity firm based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, founded in 1990. The firm specializes in managing investments across various sectors, including healthcare and industrial technology, and partners with institutional investors to provide long-term capital and strategic growth opportunities. Capvis focuses on enhancing the market position of its portfolio companies through effective management and consulting. Notably, Capvis has made significant investments in the food sector, including the acquisition of ProXES Group in 2017, a leader in process technology for the food industry. This acquisition highlights Capvis's commitment to the food sector, particularly in areas related to food packaging and processing technology. Additionally, their previous investments in companies like Soudronic and Orior AG further demonstrate their active role in the food industry, making them a relevant player in the food packaging investment landscape.

11. BASF Venture Capital

• Website: basf.de
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Ludwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn: basf

BASF Venture Capital, founded in 2001 and based in Ludwigshafen, Germany, is the corporate venture capital arm of BASF, a leading chemical manufacturer. The firm invests in innovative companies across various industries, including automotive, construction, and agriculture, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation. Notably, BASF has participated in funding rounds for companies like Lactips, which specializes in biodegradable packaging solutions, and Advanced BioNutrition, which focuses on nutrition and health, potentially impacting food packaging applications. Their investment in Gastrograph AI also indicates an interest in food-related technologies, further supporting their relevance in the food packaging sector.

12. Thia Ventures

• Website: thiaventures.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Plan-Les-Ouates, Geneva, Switzerland
• Founded year: 2021
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn: thia-ventures

Thia Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Plan-Les-Ouates, Geneva, Switzerland, founded in 2021. The firm specializes in early-stage investments at the intersection of food, biotech, and health, aiming to support innovative startups that transform food systems and improve health outcomes. Their portfolio includes a diverse range of companies, such as Chromologics, which raised €12.6M to commercialize natural food colorants, and Liberation Labs, which secured $20M to develop a precision fermentation platform for alternative protein production. These investments reflect Thia Ventures' commitment to fostering advancements that can impact food technology and packaging, particularly in the context of sustainability and health. Their involvement in the cultivated meat sector, as seen with investments in companies like Gourmey, further emphasizes their focus on innovative food solutions that could influence packaging needs in the future.

13. Döhler Ventures

• Website: doehler-ventures.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Darmstadt, Hesse, Germany
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn: doehler-ventures

Döhler Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Darmstadt, Hesse, Germany, founded in 2014. The firm specializes in empowering early-stage startups within the Nutrition & Technology sectors, providing both investment and support to help these companies grow and navigate financial challenges. Their long-term, entrepreneurial approach fosters innovation in these industries. Notably, Döhler Ventures has participated in several transactions relevant to food packaging, including a significant investment in Bower Collective, a startup dedicated to eliminating plastic waste through innovative packaging solutions. They also invested in Willicroft, an alt cheese startup that focuses on sustainability, and Naughty Nuts, which aims to expand its product portfolio in the food sector. These investments highlight Döhler Ventures' commitment to supporting companies that are not only innovating in food technology but also addressing critical issues in food packaging.

14. Krones

• Website: krones.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Neutraubling, Bavaria, Germany
• Founded year: 1951
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn: krones-ag

Krones AG, founded in 1951 and based in Neutraubling, Bavaria, Germany, is a leading manufacturing company that specializes in technology solutions for the beverage and food industries. With over 10,000 employees, Krones provides a comprehensive range of products, including process technology, filling and packaging machines, and digital services aimed at enhancing production efficiency and sustainability. The company has made significant investments in the food packaging sector, including the acquisition of Unicorn Industries Private Limited, which specializes in turnkey solutions for food and beverage production, and Gernep GmbH, enhancing its capabilities in packaging technology. Krones also acquired a 25% stake in Perfinox to strengthen its research and development in food production, showcasing its commitment to advancing food packaging technologies. These strategic acquisitions highlight Krones' focus on expanding its influence and capabilities within the food packaging industry.

15. European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF)

• Website: ecbf.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 11
• LinkedIn: european-circular-bioeconomy-fund

The European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF) is a venture capital firm based in Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, founded in 2020. It focuses on sustainable investments in the bioeconomy, providing funding and expertise to growth-stage companies that aim to transition to a circular bio-based economy. ECBF operates primarily within the EU and supports innovations across various sectors, including agriculture, food, and industrial biotechnology. Notably, ECBF has made significant investments in the food packaging sector, including a €23 million Series A funding round for Paptic, a company specializing in sustainable packaging solutions. This investment aims to enhance Paptic's material portfolio and scale its manufacturing technology. Additionally, ECBF's involvement in Heura Foods, a leading player in the foodtech industry, highlights its commitment to supporting companies that contribute to sustainable food systems. These transactions underscore ECBF's strategic focus on fostering innovations that align with circular economy principles, particularly in the context of food packaging.

Food Packaging Insights: Key Investors in DACH

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