The non ferrous metal producing industry in Europe plays a crucial role in supplying essential materials like copper, aluminum, and lithium for various applications. This sector features a blend of established mining giants and agile startups specializing in recycling and sustainable practices. Companies engage in everything from ore extraction to refined metal production, catering to industries such as automotive, electronics, and energy. As technological innovations advance, the demand for eco-friendly production methods is reshaping the industry. With increased investments focusing on circular economy initiatives, it's anticipated that this sector will see substantial growth in the years ahead.


The following investors represent a mix of private equity firms, venture capitalists, and corporate entities from locations like London, Luxembourg, and Amsterdam. Founded from 1926 to 2021, their investments in 2024 ranged from seed funding to significant acquisition deals. The group varies in size from small firms to industry behemoths, with total investments from 1 to 99 deals this past year. Their involvement ranges broadly, reflecting interests in both established firms and innovative startups within the non ferrous metal sector.


Top 15 Non Ferrous Metal Producing Investors in Europe


1. European Investment Bank (EIB)


The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg, established in 1958, that provides a range of financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services. EIB focuses on supporting sustainable projects across various sectors, including the non ferrous metal industry. In 2024, EIB was involved in several notable transactions, such as providing post-IPO debt financing to Umicore, a company specializing in materials technology and recycling of non ferrous metals, raising approximately $377 million. Additionally, EIB participated in a significant debt financing round for Sibanye-Stillwater, a leading global precious metals mining company, which raised around $556 million. These transactions highlight EIB's active role in financing initiatives that promote growth and sustainability in the non ferrous metal sector.


2. Crowdcube

  • Website: crowdcube.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: crowdcube-limited

Crowdcube is a London-based crowdfunding platform founded in 2010 that enables businesses to raise capital through equity investments. It connects startups and SMEs with potential investors, facilitating the funding process while promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce. In recent years, Crowdcube has been involved in several significant transactions within the non ferrous metal sector. Notably, it facilitated funding for Cornish Tin, which raised over $2 million across two rounds in 2022 and 2023, and for Cornish Lithium, which raised over $6 million in September 2023. These investments highlight Crowdcube's role in supporting companies that are directly engaged in the production of non ferrous metals, thereby contributing to the industry's growth.


3. Mutares Benelux

  • Website: mutares.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2021
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: mutares-benelux

Mutares Benelux, a private equity firm based in Amsterdam, specializes in acquiring and managing companies in transition. Founded in 2021, the firm provides operational support and consulting services to enhance profitability and growth across various sectors, including automotive, technology, and retail. Notably, Mutares has made significant strides in the non ferrous metal sector with its acquisition of Special Melted Products (SMP) from Allegheny Technologies Incorporated (ATI) in May 2022 for £18 million. This acquisition allows SMP to generate an annual turnover of approximately £70 million, indicating Mutares' commitment to enhancing its engineering and technology segment. Additionally, Mutares has engaged in other acquisitions, such as Rasche Umformtechnik GmbH & Co. KG and Buderus Edelstahl, which further diversify its portfolio but also highlight its strategic interest in sectors that may intersect with non ferrous metal production.


4. Bgf

  • Website: bgf.co.uk
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 53
  • LinkedIn: bgfinvestments

BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2011. The firm focuses on providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses in the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in Independent Forgings and Alloys (IFA), contributing £8.5 million to this aerospace and industrial forger, which is relevant to the non ferrous metal industry. Additionally, BGF's £10 million investment in Polar Technology Management Group, a specialist engineering company, indicates its engagement with sectors that may utilize non ferrous metals. These transactions highlight BGF's active role in supporting businesses that are connected to the non ferrous metal producing industry.


5. Rio Tinto

  • Website: riotinto.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1873
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: rio-tinto

Rio Tinto Group is a prominent mining company based in London, England, specializing in the extraction and refining of various metals and minerals, including iron ore, aluminum, and lithium. Founded in 1873, the company has a long history of serving diverse industries by providing essential materials for construction and technology. In recent years, Rio Tinto has made strategic investments to enhance its position in the non-ferrous metal sector. Notably, in December 2023, they acquired a 50% stake in Matalco from the Giampaolo Group for US$700 million, forming a joint venture aimed at expanding their footprint in the recycled aluminum market, which is expected to see a 70% increase in demand in the U.S. by 2032. Additionally, their acquisition of Kennecott Utah Copper LLC in January 2015 further emphasizes their involvement in copper production. Furthermore, their stake in the Richards Bay Minerals project in South Africa, which focuses on titanium minerals, showcases their diverse interests in non-ferrous metals. With operations in multiple countries, Rio Tinto is committed to sustainable practices and innovation to meet the growing demand for low-carbon solutions.


6. Glencore

  • Website: glencore.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1978
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: glencore

Glencore plc is a multinational commodity trading and mining company based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, founded in 1978. With over 10,000 employees, Glencore operates across various sectors, including metals, minerals, and energy. The company is a significant supplier of essential commodities such as copper and cobalt, which are critical in various industries. In recent transactions, Glencore has demonstrated its commitment to the non-ferrous metal sector by acquiring approximately 82.19% of PolyMet Mining through a rights offering, which raised approximately US$195 million. This investment is aimed at supporting the production of copper and nickel. Additionally, Glencore's involvement in the debt financing of Vedanta Resources and the post-IPO equity of The Metals Company further highlights its active role in the non-ferrous metal industry. Glencore is dedicated to responsible sourcing and sustainability in its operations, making it a key player in the non-ferrous metal market.


7. Triton Partners


Triton Partners is a private equity investment firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 1997. The firm specializes in private equity and credit investments in European mid-market businesses, focusing on sectors such as Business Services, Industrial Tech, and Healthcare. Triton provides operational expertise and capital to help companies unlock their full potential, partnering with management teams to address challenges and drive growth. Notably, Triton has been involved in significant transactions within the non ferrous metal sector, including the acquisition of Befesa, a leader in the recycling of non ferrous metals, for EUR 1.075 billion in 2013. They also acquired BFC Fahrzeugteile, a supplier of metal-based clamping profiles for the automotive industry, showcasing their engagement in the metal industry. These transactions highlight Triton's strategic interest in the non ferrous metal sector, alongside their broader investment portfolio.


8. Wieland Group

  • Website: wieland.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Ulm, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
  • Founded year: 1820
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: wielandgroup

Wieland Group, founded in 1820 and based in Ulm, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, is a leading manufacturer of semi-finished products made from copper and copper alloys. The company operates globally, serving various industries, including automotive and aerospace, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation. In recent years, Wieland has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its position in the non-ferrous metal market. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Concast Metal Products Co. and Randall Bearings Inc. in January 2024, which bolstered their presence in the premium copper market in North America. In October 2024, they acquired Morgan Bronze Products, Inc., a manufacturer of precision machined parts, further expanding their capabilities in aerospace and defense. Other significant acquisitions include Busby Metals in April 2022, which strengthened their aerospace product portfolio, and Farmers Copper, Ltd. in July 2023, aimed at expanding their North American footprint. These transactions highlight Wieland Group's commitment to the non-ferrous metal industry and its strategic growth initiatives.


9. Tikehau Capital


Tikehau Capital is an investment management firm based in Paris, specializing in alternative asset management. Founded in 2004, the firm offers a diverse range of services including private debt, private equity, real assets, and capital markets strategies. Tikehau Capital serves a broad clientele, including institutional and private investors, as well as SMEs seeking tailored financing solutions to support growth and sustainability initiatives. Notably, Tikehau Capital has been involved in several transactions relevant to the non ferrous metal industry, such as providing debt financing to Lebronze Alloys, a company focused on non ferrous metal alloys, and Cladtek Holdings, which raised $60 million in debt financing. These investments highlight Tikehau's commitment to supporting companies within the non ferrous metals sector, alongside their broader investment activities.


10. Equistone Partners Europe


Equistone Partners Europe is a private equity investment firm based in London, specializing in management buyouts and growth capital for mid-market companies across Europe. Founded in 1979, the firm focuses on partnering with management teams to provide capital and strategic support aimed at long-term growth and impressive returns for their investors. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Gardengate in 2021, a company that manufactures aluminum gates and doors, highlighting their involvement in the non ferrous metal industry. Additionally, they have made significant investments in various sectors, including the acquisition of Fives Group and Coventya, showcasing their diverse investment portfolio while maintaining a strategic focus on growth-oriented companies.


11. Astorg

  • Website: astorg.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Luxembourg
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: astorg

Astorg is a private equity firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 1998, with a focus on investing in global B2B companies. With €22 billion in assets under management, Astorg specializes in providing capital, strategic guidance, and governance to management teams across various sectors, including healthcare, technology, and business services. Notably, Astorg has made significant investments in the non ferrous metal sector, acquiring Metalor, a company involved in precious metals and materials, in 2009. In 2024, they entered exclusive negotiations to acquire a majority stake in Lebronze alloys, a company that specializes in non ferrous metal alloys. Additionally, their acquisition of Corialis in 2021, a manufacturer of aluminum systems, further highlights their commitment to the non ferrous metal industry. These transactions reflect Astorg's strategy of creating long-term value through partnerships with entrepreneurs in sectors that include non ferrous metals.


12. 3i Group plc

  • Website: 3i.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1945
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: 3i-group-plc

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity and infrastructure investment firm founded in 1945. The firm specializes in providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, aiming to foster sustainable growth. With a diverse portfolio and a strong international presence, 3i Group has made significant investments across various sectors. Notably, they have been involved in multiple funding rounds for Metalysis, a company focused on innovative metal production technologies, raising substantial amounts in Series A, C, and other funding rounds. This involvement highlights 3i Group's commitment to the non ferrous metal industry, alongside their broader investment strategy that includes various sectors such as infrastructure and technology.


13. Finindus

  • Website: finindus.be
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Zelzate, Flanders, Belgium
  • Founded year: 1926
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 6
  • LinkedIn: finindus

Finindus is a venture capital firm based in Zelzate, Flanders, Belgium, founded in 1926. The firm specializes in providing early stage and growth financing to innovative technology companies, particularly in the fields of materials, sustainable manufacturing, and industry 4.0. They focus on maximizing long-term value creation for their portfolio companies through proactive and pragmatic assistance. Notably, Finindus has invested in Fortius Metals, which raised $2 million in a seed round in October 2024, indicating their engagement in the non ferrous metals sector. Additionally, they have participated in funding rounds for companies like Borit and Expanite, which, while not exclusively in the non ferrous metals space, contribute to the broader materials and manufacturing landscape. Their investment strategy reflects a commitment to supporting advancements in technology and sustainability within the industry.


14. Katapult

  • Website: katapult.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: katapult-accelerator

Katapult is an impact investment firm based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 2017. They focus on tech startups that address global challenges, providing investment, accelerator programs, and mentorship to early-stage companies. In 2023, Katapult made a notable investment in Metalchemy, which raised $157,753 in a Pre-Seed Round, indicating their engagement in the non ferrous metal sector. Additionally, they have invested in companies like Solar Materials and Jiva Materials, which, while primarily focused on materials related to sustainability and technology, also intersect with the broader materials sector, including non ferrous metals. Katapult's diverse portfolio reflects their commitment to supporting innovative solutions across various industries, including non ferrous metals.


15. Anglo American

  • Website: angloamerican.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1917
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: anglo-american

Anglo American is a corporate investor based in London, England, founded in 1917. The company specializes in the extraction and production of essential metals and minerals, including copper, diamonds, and platinum group metals. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, Anglo American is committed to sustainable practices while serving various industries that rely on their materials for modern infrastructure and technology. In recent years, Anglo American has made strategic investments in the non-ferrous metal sector, such as their investment of C$26.15 million in Canada Nickel Company, which focuses on nickel production. Additionally, their acquisition of Samancor Holdings in 2014 and First Mode in 2022 demonstrates their commitment to expanding their footprint in the non-ferrous metal industry. These transactions highlight Anglo American's active role in the non-ferrous metal producing market, making them a relevant investor in this category.



Non Ferrous Metal Producing Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
CrowdcubeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020103
Mutares BeneluxAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands51-200202116
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
Rio TintoLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+18734
GlencoreBaar, Zug, Switzerland10001+19783
Triton PartnersLuxembourg201-50019976
Wieland GroupUlm, Baden-Württemberg, Germany10001+18203
Tikehau CapitalParis, Île-De-France, France501-100020046
Equistone Partners EuropeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20019791
AstorgLuxembourg51-20019988
3i Group plcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019453
FinindusZelzate, Flanders, Belgium1-1019266
KatapultOslo, Oslo, Norway11-5020178
Anglo AmericanLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+19175


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