The food manufacturing industry in Europe plays a critical role in the economy through the production of a wide range of edible products. Companies within this sector include meat processors, dairy producers, and snack manufacturers, among others. The industry prioritizes sustainability, with many firms focusing on reducing waste and improving supply chain efficiency. Trends such as plant-based alternatives and organic offerings are rapidly gaining traction, reflecting consumer demand for healthier choices. As innovation drives change, investments in technology and eco-friendly practices are becoming essential to stay competitive in this dynamic environment.


The list features a mix of corporate, private equity, and venture capital investors based across Europe, from London to Luxembourg. Founded between 1988 and 2017, these firms range in size from small teams to expansive entities with thousands of employees. In 2024, they collectively engaged in numerous investments across the food manufacturing sector, with several notable deals signaling a strong interest in innovative and sustainable food practices. These investors not only provide capital but also strategic guidance, helping food companies navigate a rapidly evolving market.


Top 17 Food Manufacturing Investors in Europe


1. 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. Crowdcube promotes diversity and inclusion within its workforce while providing investment management services to its clients. Notably, Crowdcube has been involved in several significant transactions within the food manufacturing sector, including Yum Bug, which raised $318,822 in June 2023 and $542,919 in May 2021; Northern Bloc, which raised $53,266 in February 2020; Hackney Gelato, which raised $1,138,719 in September 2022; and Heura Foods, which raised $3,426,143 in May 2023. These investments highlight Crowdcube's active role in supporting innovative food manufacturing companies.


2. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération


Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital investor based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. As a public entity and financial institution, Bpifrance supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through a range of services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. The firm aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in significant transactions within the food manufacturing sector, such as leading funding rounds for Umiami, a Paris-based foodtech company, which raised €32.5 million in October 2023 and previously secured $28.9 million in April 2022. Additionally, Bpifrance participated in the funding of Gourmey, a cultivated meat startup, which raised €48 million in October 2022, marking a significant investment in the alternative protein space. These transactions highlight Bpifrance's active role in supporting innovative food manufacturing ventures.


3. European Innovation Council (EIC)


The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a public entity based in Brussels, Belgium, established to support innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe. Founded in 1958, the EIC offers various funding programs, including the EIC Accelerator and EIC Pathfinder, aimed at helping startups and SMEs develop and scale their technologies. The EIC provides business acceleration services, networking opportunities, and prizes to foster innovation in multiple sectors. Notably, the EIC has been involved in significant transactions within the food manufacturing context, such as leading a $58 million Series B funding round for Infinite Roots, a Hamburg-based mycelium company, which is focused on producing sustainable food alternatives. This investment highlights the EIC's engagement in the food sector, as mycelium is increasingly recognized for its potential in food production. Additionally, the EIC has provided grants to companies like Green Spot Technologies, which may also have implications for food manufacturing. These activities illustrate the EIC's role in supporting innovative solutions within the food industry.


4. 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 transforming food systems through sustainable practices. The firm supports mission-aligned entrepreneurs in the bioeconomy by providing funding and resources to scale innovative solutions. Notably, Blue Horizon has invested in several key players in the food manufacturing sector, including Impossible Foods, which raised $114 million in a convertible note to develop plant-based meat alternatives. They also participated in seed rounds for Rebellyous Foods, which focuses on plant-based chicken products, and Fora Foods, which is involved in alternative dairy products. Additionally, Blue Horizon has been a significant investor in Mosa Meat, contributing to their Series B funding rounds aimed at scaling production capabilities for cultured meat. These investments highlight Blue Horizon's commitment to advancing sustainable food manufacturing and supporting impactful change in the industry.


5. Unigrains

  • Website: unigrains.fr
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1963
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: unigrains

Unigrains is a private equity investment firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 1963. With over 60 years of experience, Unigrains specializes in the agro-food and agro-industry sectors, providing financial and strategic support to businesses in these industries. The firm has supported more than 1,000 companies, managing significant assets to foster growth and sustainability in agriculture and food production. Notable transactions include investments in Sill Entreprises, which raised over $540 million, Stoeffler with $173 million, and Maître Prunille, which secured $246 million. These investments highlight Unigrains' active role in the food manufacturing sector, making them a key player in supporting the growth of food-related businesses.


6. EIT Food

  • Website: eitfood.eu
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 37
  • LinkedIn: eit-food

EIT Food is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2016, based in Leuven, Flanders, Belgium. It is dedicated to transforming the food system through innovation, education, and entrepreneurship. EIT Food supports agrifood startups and entrepreneurs by providing resources, funding opportunities, and educational programs aimed at creating healthier and sustainable food solutions. Their initiatives engage various stakeholders, including businesses and the public, to foster collaboration and drive change in the food sector. In 2024, EIT Food was involved in 37 investments, including notable transactions such as Kokomodo, which raised $216,309 in a grant, and Phytolon, which raised $4,100,000 in a seed round in 2020, along with additional funding in grants. These transactions highlight their active role in supporting innovative food-related ventures, particularly in the manufacturing context, as they seek to enhance the overall food ecosystem.


7. Enterprise Ireland


Enterprise Ireland is a public entity that serves as the Irish government's enterprise development agency, founded in 1998. It supports Irish businesses at all stages of their growth journey by providing funding, advisory services, and market access assistance. The agency focuses on helping companies scale and compete internationally across various industries, including technology and manufacturing. In the food manufacturing context, Enterprise Ireland has been involved in several significant transactions, such as providing grants to Kepak, which raised over $2 million, and Dairygold Co-Operative Society, which raised approximately $1.5 million. Additionally, C and D Foods received a grant of over $5 million in 2024. These transactions highlight Enterprise Ireland's commitment to fostering growth in the food manufacturing sector.


8. Cvc

  • Website: cvc.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Luxembourg
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: cvc-capital-partners

CVC Capital Partners is a prominent private equity firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 2005. It specializes in private equity, credit, secondaries, and infrastructure, managing approximately €193 billion in assets for over 1000 clients, including pension funds and institutional investors. CVC focuses on delivering sustainable value and growth through strategic investments. In the food manufacturing sector, CVC has made significant investments, including the acquisition of Munchy Food Industries, a Malaysia-based snacks group known for its popular brands. They also acquired Continental Foods Belgium SA, enhancing their portfolio in the food production space. Furthermore, CVC's investment in Dodoni, a Greek dairy brand, highlights their strategy to leverage growth in specialty food sectors. These transactions illustrate CVC's active role in the food manufacturing industry, alongside their broader investment strategy.


9. CPT Capital

  • Website: cptcap.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: cpt-capital

CPT Capital is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2017, specializing in investments in the alternative protein sector. The firm partners with innovative startups to provide funding and strategic support, aiming to revolutionize food and materials technology by replacing animal-derived products with sustainable alternatives. Notable transactions include participation in a $52 million Series C funding round for Miyoko's Kitchen, which focuses on plant-based dairy products, and involvement in Memphis Meats' $161 million Series B funding round, which aims to develop cultured meat products. Additionally, CPT Capital has invested in Aleph Farms, a company known for its lab-grown meat technology, further emphasizing their commitment to advancing food manufacturing through sustainable practices. Their investments reflect a strong alignment with the goals of transforming the food industry towards more sustainable and innovative solutions.


10. EQT Group

  • Website: eqtgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 30
  • LinkedIn: eqt-partners

EQT Group is a prominent investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, specializing in private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Founded in 1994, EQT serves institutional investors by providing expertise in managing diverse investment portfolios across various sectors and geographies. In the food manufacturing context, EQT has made notable investments, including the acquisition of Findus Sverige, a significant player in the frozen food market, and Oterra, a company focused on natural food ingredients. Additionally, EQT's partnership in the acquisition of International Fruit Genetics, which led to the formation of BLOOM FRESH International, highlights their strategic interest in the food sector, particularly in breeding and genetics for table grapes and cherries. These transactions underscore EQT's active role in the food manufacturing industry, showcasing their commitment to investing in this vital sector.


11. 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. The company is committed to sustainability and provides nutritious and convenient food options globally. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Gerber Products Company for $5.5 billion, enhancing its position in the US baby food market; the acquisition of Ching’s Secret for approximately $1 billion, expanding its presence in the Indian FMCG market; and the acquisition of Yinlu for $7.5 million, further diversifying its product offerings. These strategic acquisitions highlight Nestlé's focus on strengthening its food manufacturing capabilities and market presence.


12. Ardian

  • Website: ardian.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 21
  • LinkedIn: ardian

Ardian is a prominent investment management firm based in Paris, specializing in private equity, real assets, and credit solutions. Founded in 1996, Ardian has established a global presence and focuses on sustainable finance, aiming to create lasting value for its clients. In the food manufacturing sector, Ardian has made significant investments, including the acquisition of Frulact, a natural food ingredients supplier, for approximately €200 million, and Cérélia Group, a French bakery group with revenues nearing €500 million. Additionally, Ardian acquired a majority stake in Florida Food Products, reflecting their strategy to invest in mid-and large-cap companies within the food industry. These transactions highlight Ardian's commitment to supporting the growth and strategic plans of food manufacturing companies.


13. Crédit Mutuel Equity


Crédit Mutuel Equity is a private equity investment firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 1988. The firm specializes in providing capital and strategic support to businesses across various sectors, including food manufacturing. They integrate economic and ESG considerations into their investment strategies, assisting companies in their growth and transformation. Notably, Crédit Mutuel Equity has been involved in several transactions within the food sector, such as Norac Foods in 2005, Sill Entreprises in 2008, and REITZEL SA in 2005, all of which raised undisclosed amounts in private equity rounds. More recently, they invested in Grain de Sail in 2022, further demonstrating their ongoing commitment to the food manufacturing industry. Their clientele includes business leaders seeking to enhance operations and navigate market challenges, making them a valuable partner for companies in the food sector.


14. 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 founded in 2011, based in London, England. The firm specializes in providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses across the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has made significant investments in the food manufacturing sector, including a £11 million Series A funding for THIS, a London-based alternative meat brand, aimed at expanding R&D and distribution. Additionally, BGF invested in Dublin Meat Company, a specialist food producer, to support its expansion efforts. These transactions highlight BGF's commitment to fostering growth in the food manufacturing industry while also maintaining a diverse investment portfolio.


15. Almi

  • Website: almi.se
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: almi-ab

Almi AB is a financial services company based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. It specializes in providing loans, risk capital, and business development support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sweden. Almi aims to enhance the growth and competitiveness of these businesses by offering tailored financial solutions and guidance. Among their notable transactions, Almi has invested in Tebrito, a company that has raised significant funds in multiple seed rounds, indicating a focus on innovative food solutions. Additionally, Almi's investment in Havredals, which raised funds in an angel round, further highlights their engagement in the food sector. These transactions suggest that Almi is not only active in various industries but also has a stake in the food manufacturing space, making them a relevant investor in this category.


16. European Investment Bank (EIB)


The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg, founded in 1958, that provides financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services to support sustainable projects across various sectors. The EIB's clientele includes both public and private organizations seeking funding for initiatives that promote growth and job creation. Notably, the EIB has been involved in several significant transactions within the food manufacturing sector, such as a $38.8 million debt financing for Carbery Group in December 2019 and a $22.2 million debt financing for MATR Foods in September 2024. These investments highlight the EIB's role in supporting the food industry, alongside its broader mandate to finance sustainable projects across diverse sectors.


17. IDIA Capital Investissement


IDIA Capital Investissement is a private equity investment management firm based in Montrouge, Île-De-France, France, founded in 1980. The firm specializes in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-sized companies (ETIs) in their growth, offering investment management services and strategic guidance. IDIA Capital Investissement focuses on various sectors, including agro-food, energy transition, and viticulture. Notably, the firm has been involved in several significant transactions within the food manufacturing context, such as investing in Sodiaal, a major dairy cooperative, and Polenghi Group, known for its food products. Other relevant investments include Valade Groupe, which operates in the food sector, Olives & Co, a company specializing in olive products, and Triskalia, a cooperative involved in agricultural production. Through these investments, IDIA Capital Investissement demonstrates its commitment to fostering growth in the food manufacturing industry.



Food Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
CrowdcubeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020103
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
European Innovation Council (EIC)Brussels, Brussels, Belgium201-500195857
Blue HorizonZurich, Zurich, Switzerland11-5020162
UnigrainsParis, Île-De-France, France51-20019634
EIT FoodLeuven, Flanders, Belgium51-200201637
Enterprise IrelandDublin, Dublin, Ireland501-1000199848
CvcLuxembourg1001-5000200516
CPT CapitalLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)1-1020171
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
NestléVevey, Vaud, Switzerland10001+18662
ArdianParis, Île-De-France, France1001-5000199621
Crédit Mutuel EquityParis, Île-De-France, France51-20019882
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
AlmiStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden201-50019947
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
IDIA Capital InvestissementMontrouge, Île-De-France, France11-5019801


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