The fruit and vegetable processing industry in DACH focuses on transforming raw produce into value-added products. It includes companies that specialize in processing, packaging, and distributing fruits and veggies, ranging from small artisan producers to large-scale food manufacturers. This sector responds to growing sustainability trends, emphasizing organic and minimally processed items. With a rise in health-conscious consumer behavior, innovation is driving demand for quality, shelf-stable products. The integration of technology is also reshaping operations, streamlining processes while enhancing product offerings. As the industry prioritizes sustainable practices, it seems poised for continued growth and evolution in upcoming years.


The investors featured here predominantly feature venture capital firms and corporate investors spanning Zurich, Berlin, and Geneva. With sizes from small teams of 1-10 to major firms like Brenntag, each investor contributes to the shifting dynamics of the fruit and vegetable processing industry. Established between 1864 and 2021, these investors showcase extensive experience while acting on their commitment to fostering innovation. Collectively, the group made a notable number of strategic investments in 2024, highlighting an eagerness to support sustainable food technologies and processing methods as the industry continues to evolve.


Top 18 Fruit and Vegetable Processing 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 focuses on supporting mission-aligned founders in the bioeconomy by providing funding and resources to scale innovative solutions. Notably, Blue Horizon has participated in several relevant transactions, including a Series A investment in Apparo, which specializes in sunflower protein ingredients, and a seed investment in NuCicer, an agri-food technology company that develops chickpea varieties with enhanced protein content. These investments highlight Blue Horizon's commitment to advancing sustainable practices within the food sector, particularly in areas that intersect with fruit and vegetable processing.


2. FoodLabs

  • Website: foodlabs.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 11
  • LinkedIn: atlantic-food-labs

FoodLabs is a Berlin-based venture capital firm and food technology incubator founded in 2016. They specialize in supporting innovative startups within the food tech sector, providing both investment and consulting services to entrepreneurs. Their mission is to promote sustainable food solutions and tackle global challenges related to food security and health. Notable transactions include their investment in Tupu, a Berlin-based AgTech company that raised $3.2M to scale its production capacity for food service and retail, which is relevant to fruit and vegetable processing. They also invested in Infarm, a company focused on urban farming, which contributes to sustainable food production. These investments reflect FoodLabs' commitment to enhancing food technology and processing capabilities.


3. Tet Ventures

  • Website: tet.vc
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Founded year: 2020
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: tetvc

Tet Ventures is a corporate venture capital firm based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 2020. The firm is dedicated to investing in teams that are focused on rebuilding the global food system, primarily within the food technology sector. They provide financial support and advisory services to startups addressing significant challenges in the industry. Notable transactions include their investment in Planet A Foods, which raised $6 million in a Seed Round, indicating a focus on innovative food solutions. Additionally, they participated in the Pre-Seed funding of Bene Bono and Farmless, both of which are involved in food technology, suggesting a commitment to supporting startups that may impact fruit and vegetable processing. Their diverse investment strategy positions them as a relevant player in the food technology landscape.


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 globally, providing a wide range of specialty and industrial chemicals along with value-added services. In recent years, Brenntag has made significant acquisitions to strengthen its position in the food sector. Notably, in June 2021, they acquired JM Swank Co., a US-based food ingredients distributor, for USD 304 million, which is expected to double their size in the Nutrition business in North America. This acquisition positions Brenntag as a leading distributor in the region with approximately USD 1 billion in revenue. Additionally, their acquisition of Trend Gida in 2008 and Kluman & Balter in 2017 further demonstrates their commitment to expanding their footprint in the food and ingredients market, including fruit and vegetable processing.


5. 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 investing in early-stage companies that operate at the intersection of food, biotech, and health. Thia Ventures aims to support innovative startups that are transforming food systems and enhancing health outcomes. Their portfolio includes a diverse range of companies, such as Chromologics, which focuses on natural food colors, and Liberation Labs, which develops precision fermentation platforms for alternative protein production. These investments highlight Thia Ventures' commitment to advancing food technology and sustainability, making them a relevant player in the food processing sector, including fruit and vegetable processing.


6. 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 investment strategies and commitment to sustainability. Among their notable transactions, Partners Group acquired a 53.69% majority stake in Hortifruti Hortigil, a Brazilian food retailer, in 2017, which is significant as it operates in the fruit and vegetable sector. Additionally, they have invested in Rovensa, a Portuguese producer of agricultural products, further emphasizing their engagement in the agricultural and food processing industries. These transactions highlight Partners Group's active role in sectors that are relevant to fruit and vegetable processing.


7. 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. The company specializes in innovative and responsible packaging solutions for various industries, including food, beverage, healthcare, and personal care. With a strong focus on sustainability, Amcor aims to make all its products recyclable or reusable by 2025. Notably, Amcor has been involved in several acquisitions that enhance its capabilities in food packaging. For instance, their acquisition of Moda Systems, a manufacturer of automated protein packaging machines, is expected to improve their end-to-end packaging solutions for the food industry. Additionally, their acquisition of Detmold Flexibles, an Australian packaging business, further strengthens their position in the flexible packaging market, which is relevant for fruit and vegetable products. Overall, Amcor's strategic investments in packaging technology and sustainability align with the needs of the fruit and vegetable processing industry.


8. Leaps by Bayer

  • Website: leaps.bayer.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: leapsbybayer

Leaps by Bayer is a venture capital firm based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 2015. It focuses on biotechnology and agriculture, investing in early-stage companies that are pursuing scientific breakthroughs to tackle significant global challenges in health and food security. In 2024 alone, Leaps by Bayer has made 16 investments. Notably, they have invested in Pairwise Plants, which raised $40 million in a Series C round in September 2024, and previously participated in their Series B and A rounds, supporting the development of genetically enhanced fresh produce. Additionally, they led a Seed investment in NuCicer, an agri-food technology company that is scaling production of chickpea varieties with higher protein content, which is relevant for food processing. Their investments reflect a strong focus on innovative solutions in agriculture that can impact the fruit and vegetable processing sector.


9. AgriFoodTech Venture Alliance


AgriFoodTech Venture Alliance, founded in 2024 and based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, is a venture capital firm that specializes in investing in and supporting startups within the AgriFoodTech sector. The firm collaborates with innovative businesses to promote sustainable technologies in food production. Notable transactions include their investment in AgroSustain, which raised CHF 4.8M for developing natural coatings and antifungal solutions, relevant for extending the shelf life of fruits and vegetables. They also participated in the funding of Greenforce, a Munich-based foodtech company that raised 13 million euros to expand its product range, potentially including processed food products. These investments reflect their commitment to advancing technologies that can benefit the fruit and vegetable processing industry.


10. responsAbility Investments AG


ResponsAbility Investments AG is an impact investment firm based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 2003. The firm specializes in managing investments in emerging markets with a focus on financial inclusion, climate finance, and sustainable food production. They provide investment solutions aimed at generating positive societal and environmental impacts alongside financial returns, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises in developing countries. Notably, responsAbility has been involved in significant transactions within the agricultural sector, including a Series B investment in Sahyadri Farms, which raised over $45 million to enhance its operations in fruit and vegetable processing. They also participated in funding for Agro Vision Corp, which aims to promote sustainability in agriculture. These transactions highlight their commitment to supporting sustainable practices in the food industry.


11. Döhler Ventures


Döhler Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Darmstadt, Hesse, Germany, founded in 2014. The firm focuses on empowering early-stage startups in the Nutrition & Technology sectors, providing both investment and support to help these startups grow and overcome financial challenges. Their approach is long-term and entrepreneurial, aiming to foster innovation within these industries. Notably, Döhler Ventures has participated in several relevant transactions, including a €2 million investment in Willicroft, an alt cheese startup that emphasizes sustainability, and a €7.1 million investment in Chromologics, a biotech company that produces natural food colors, which could be used in fruit and vegetable products. Additionally, their involvement in Naughty Nuts, a company expanding its product portfolio, further illustrates their commitment to innovative food solutions. These transactions highlight Döhler Ventures' interest in the food sector, particularly in areas that can enhance fruit and vegetable processing.


12. Sictic

  • Website: sictic.ch
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2014
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 77
  • LinkedIn: sictic

Sictic is a not-for-profit venture capital organization based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 2014. It connects smart money investors with innovative Swiss early-stage technology startups, providing investment opportunities, networking events, and educational resources to facilitate the growth of startups and the investment community. In recent years, Sictic has been active in various sectors, including food technology. Notably, they invested in Luya Foods, which raised $5,907,477 in a Series A round in September 2024, indicating a focus on food production. Additionally, they have invested in Agrinorm through multiple funding rounds, which suggests an interest in agricultural technology that could relate to fruit and vegetable processing. Their diverse portfolio and active engagement in food-related startups position them as a relevant player in the fruit and vegetable processing investment landscape.


13. European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF)


The European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF) is a venture capital firm based in Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, founded in 2020. It specializes in sustainable investments aimed at fostering a circular bio-based economy. ECBF provides funding and expertise to growth-stage companies across various sectors, including agriculture, food, and industrial biotechnology. Notably, ECBF has invested in PeelPioneers, a startup that processes orange peels, highlighting its commitment to fruit processing. Additionally, their investment in Heura Foods, a leader in the plant-based food sector, and Biosyntia, which focuses on biobased ingredients for food and supplements, further demonstrates their engagement in the food industry. These transactions reflect ECBF's dedication to supporting innovations that contribute to sustainable practices in food production and processing.


14. redalpine


Redalpine is a venture capital firm based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 2006. The firm specializes in investing in technology and science sectors, providing funding and strategic support to startups. In 2024, Redalpine has made 18 investments, showcasing their active role in the venture capital landscape. Notably, they have invested in Luya Foods, which raised $5,907,477 in a Series A round in September 2024, focusing on plant-based alternatives to meat. This investment aligns with the growing trend towards sustainable food production and processing. Additionally, Redalpine participated in funding rounds for Umiami, a foodtech company that has raised significant capital to innovate in the food sector. These transactions highlight Redalpine's engagement in the food industry, particularly in areas that intersect with fruit and vegetable processing.


15. Givaudan

  • Website: givaudan.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1895
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: givaudan

Givaudan is a leading manufacturer based in Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland, specializing in flavors, fragrances, and active cosmetic ingredients. Founded in 1895, the company has a workforce of over 10,000 employees and is recognized for providing innovative sensory solutions to food and beverage companies, personal care brands, and household goods producers. Notably, Givaudan has made significant acquisitions to strengthen its position in the food sector, particularly in natural ingredients. In 2018, Givaudan acquired Naturex, a French company specializing in plant-based ingredients, for 522 million euros, enhancing its portfolio in natural flavors. Additionally, Givaudan's acquisition of DDW, The Color House, a natural color company, further emphasizes its commitment to the Taste & Wellbeing business, which is crucial for fruit and vegetable processing. These strategic moves highlight Givaudan's focus on integrating natural and plant-based solutions into their offerings, making them a relevant player in the fruit and vegetable processing industry.


16. Green Generation Fund


Green Generation Fund is a Berlin-based venture capital firm founded in 2021, specializing in early-stage investments in Food Tech and Green Tech start-ups. The firm aims to drive significant positive impacts in sustainability by supporting innovative solutions that address climate change and resource challenges. In 2022, they led a $4 million seed round for Lypid, which is focused on the commercialization of PhytoFat™, a product that could potentially be used in various food applications. They also invested in ProteinDistillery, which raised over 15 million euros for its plant-based protein ingredient made from upcycled brewer's yeast, showcasing their interest in sustainable food production. Other investments include Libre Foods, which is developing mycelium-based alt meats, indicating a broader interest in innovative food technologies that could intersect with fruit and vegetable processing.


17. 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 a corporate investor that is part of BASF, a leading chemical manufacturer. The firm focuses on innovation and sustainability across various industries, including agriculture. Notably, BASF has participated in funding rounds for companies like Arcadia Biosciences, which is dedicated to developing products that enhance agricultural performance and quality traits. Their investment in Arcadia, which has raised significant funding to support the launch of products like GLA Safflower Oil, indicates a commitment to advancing agricultural technologies that could impact fruit and vegetable processing. Additionally, BASF's involvement in other ventures such as Sea6 Energy and Lactips reflects a broader interest in sustainable agricultural practices and innovative solutions that could benefit the food processing industry.


18. Nucleus Capital

  • Website: nucleus-capital.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Founded year: 2021
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: k16-ventures

Nucleus Capital is a venture capital firm based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 2021. The firm invests in purpose-driven entrepreneurs who are focused on solving systemic challenges related to planetary health. Nucleus Capital primarily supports startups in sectors such as Programmable Biology, Food Technology, and Green Industrials, mainly in Europe and the US. Notable transactions include investments in Planet A Foods, which is developing innovative food products, and Hoxton Farms, which is working on sustainable food solutions. These investments reflect Nucleus Capital's commitment to supporting innovative food technologies that could encompass fruit and vegetable processing, thereby contributing to a more sustainable food system.



Fruit and Vegetable Processing Insights: Key Investors in DACH


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Blue HorizonZurich, Zurich, Switzerland11-5020162
FoodLabsBerlin, Berlin, Germany11-50201611
Tet VenturesBerlin, Berlin, Germany1-1020204
BrenntagEssen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany10001+18748
Thia VenturesPlan-Les-Ouates, Geneva, Switzerland1-1020213
Partners GroupBaar, Zug, Switzerland1001-5000199619
AmcorZurich, Zurich, Switzerland10001+18640
Leaps by BayerBerlin, Berlin, Germany11-50201516
AgriFoodTech Venture AllianceMunich, Bavaria, Germany1-1020241
responsAbility Investments AGZurich, Zurich, Switzerland201-50020039
Döhler VenturesDarmstadt, Hesse, Germany1-1020143
SicticZurich, Zurich, Switzerland201-500201477
European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF)Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany11-50202011
redalpineZurich, Zurich, Switzerland11-50200618
GivaudanVernier, Geneva, Switzerland10001+18950
Green Generation FundBerlin, Berlin, Germany1-1020218
BASF Venture CapitalLudwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany10001+20013
Nucleus CapitalBerlin, Berlin, Germany1-1020215


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