The gourmet food and beverage industry in Latin America is thriving, characterized by innovative companies focused on quality and sustainability. From artisan coffee roasters in Colombia to chic Argentine dining concepts, many players prioritize culinary creativity and cultural authenticity. This sector is rapidly evolving, influenced by local tastes and global trends, such as plant-based diets and responsibly sourced ingredients. As consumers become more discerning, gourmet food subscriptions and specialty products are gaining traction. Collaborations with startups and advancements in food technology highlight a promising future, appealing to both domestic and international markets in this vibrant culinary space.


The investor landscape in Latin America’s gourmet food and beverage sector is made up of various types including venture capital and corporate investors. Headquartered primarily in São Paulo, Mexico City, and other major cities, these investors vary from small firms to large corporations. Founded mostly between 2005 and 2020, they have engaged in multiple funding rounds in 2024, totaling over 100 investments. This activity reflects their commitment to growing innovative food and beverage startups, contributing to a dynamic market poised for growth and transformation.


Top 18 Gourmet Food and Beverage Investors in Latin America


1. bossa invest

  • Website: bossainvest.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 56
  • LinkedIn: bossainvest

Bossa Invest is a venture capital firm based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, founded in 2011. The firm specializes in investing in innovative startups, particularly in the technology sector, and provides capital, strategic guidance, and access to a network of co-investors. In the gourmet food and beverage context, Bossa Invest has participated in notable transactions such as The Coffee, a foodtech company that raised R$ 28 million for expansion, and CookUnity, which raised $47 million in a Series B round. Additionally, they have invested in Mercato, a company that raised $26 million in a Series A round, further demonstrating their engagement in the food and beverage industry. Bossa Invest also offers educational resources for investors and startups, aiming to empower entrepreneurs and foster growth in the startup ecosystem.


2. Grupo Bimbo

  • Website: grupobimbo.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Mexico City, Mexico City, Mexico
  • Founded year: 1945
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: grupobimbo

Grupo Bimbo, founded in 1945 and headquartered in Mexico City, is a leading global manufacturer of baked goods, including a wide array of bread, pastries, and snacks. The company is committed to sustainability and community engagement, operating numerous well-known brands. In recent years, Grupo Bimbo has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its market presence and diversify its product offerings. Notably, they acquired Popcornopolis in October 2021, which specializes in gourmet popcorn, indicating a clear interest in gourmet snack products. Additionally, their acquisition of Natural Bakery Ltd. in April 2023, a rye bread producer, further demonstrates their commitment to expanding their portfolio in the baked goods sector. Other acquisitions, such as Beefsteak and Mr. Bagels Limited, also reflect their strategy to penetrate various segments of the food market, including gourmet options. Overall, Grupo Bimbo's active involvement in acquiring brands that cater to gourmet tastes positions them as a relevant investor in the gourmet food and beverage industry.


3. Jbs

  • Website: jbs.com.br
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
  • Founded year: 1953
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: jbs

JBS S.A. is a prominent corporate investor based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, founded in 1953. The company is a global leader in food processing, specializing in the production of beef, pork, poultry, fish, and plant-based products. JBS serves a diverse clientele, including food retailers and restaurants, by providing high-quality meat and food products. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Primo Smallgoods, a significant player in the Australian and New Zealand smallgoods market, and Seara Alimentos, which further solidified JBS's position in the meat processing industry. Their acquisition of Cargill's US-based pork business for $1.45 billion also highlights their strategy to expand in value-added meat products, reinforcing their relevance in the gourmet food sector. JBS operates with a commitment to sustainability and responsible practices, making them a noteworthy investor in the gourmet food and beverage industry.


4. Semillero Partners LLC


Semillero Partners LLC is a venture capital firm based in San Juan, Puerto Rico, founded in 2016. The firm specializes in empowering entrepreneurs across the Food & Beverage, Food Tech, and Wellness industries by providing investment capital and strategic guidance to foster sustainable growth. Notable transactions include a $3 million Series A investment in Afia, a Mediterranean food company, and participation in Jiant's $6 million Series A funding round for a ready-to-drink alcohol brand. Additionally, they invested in Sanzo, which raised $10 million in Series A financing to expand its beverage offerings. These investments highlight Semillero Partners' commitment to supporting innovative companies in the gourmet food and beverage space.


5. Massimo Zanetti Beverage Brasil

  • Website: mzb-group.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Vargem Grande Do Sul, Sao Paulo, Brazil
  • Founded year: 1973
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: cafepacaembu

Massimo Zanetti Beverage Brasil is a corporate investor based in Vargem Grande Do Sul, Sao Paulo, Brazil, and is part of the Massimo Zanetti Beverage Group, a renowned beverage manufacturer founded in 1973. The company specializes in coffee, tea, cocoa, and spices, serving businesses in the food and beverage industry with high-quality products. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Hoja Verde Gourmet Hovgo, an Ecuadorian cocoa and coffee producer, which enhances their gourmet offerings. They also acquired Kauai Coffee Company, the largest coffee grower in the U.S., and The Bean Alliance, expanding their market presence in Australia. Furthermore, the acquisition of Boncafe Group for 85 million USD underscores their focus on gourmet coffee and equipment in Southeast Asia and the Middle East. These strategic moves position Massimo Zanetti Beverage Brasil as a key player in the gourmet food and beverage sector.


6. Monashees

  • Website: monashees.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 18
  • LinkedIn: monashees-capital

Monashees is a venture capital firm based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, founded in 2005. The firm specializes in investing in technology-based companies across Latin America, providing not only funding but also support in talent acquisition, fundraising, and access to a network of industry experts. Among their notable transactions, Monashees has invested significantly in The Coffee, a foodtech company that has raised multiple rounds of funding, including a Series A round of R$ 28 million in 2020 aimed at national and international expansion. The Coffee's plans to open numerous establishments and launch an e-commerce site highlight its focus on the gourmet coffee market, showcasing Monashees' engagement in the gourmet food and beverage industry. Additionally, their investment in Future Farm, which focuses on plant-based food products, further emphasizes their interest in innovative food solutions.


7. Femsa

  • Website: femsa.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
  • Founded year: 1890
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: femsa

Fomento Económico Mexicano S.A.B. de C.V. (Femsa) is a multinational corporation based in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, primarily operating in the beverage and retail sectors. Founded in 1890, Femsa is the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the world and operates OXXO, a vast chain of convenience stores across 18 countries. The company focuses on creating economic and social value through its diverse offerings. Femsa has made notable investments in the gourmet food and beverage space, including the acquisition of an 80% stake in Doña Tota, a quick-service restaurant operator, which aims to leverage Femsa's retail expertise to enhance operations. Additionally, Femsa has invested in Jüsto, an online grocery platform, through seed funding rounds, indicating its commitment to expanding its footprint in the food and beverage industry. These strategic moves highlight Femsa's active role in the gourmet food and beverage market.


8. Santatera Capital

  • Website: santatera.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
  • Founded year: 2022
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: santatera-capital

Santatera Capital is a venture capital firm based in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, founded in 2022. The firm specializes in investments in the Food & Beverage industry, particularly targeting early-stage startups that are innovating in food products and technologies. Santatera Capital aims to provide both capital and strategic support to help these businesses grow in a competitive market. Notable transactions include leading a $2.6 million seed funding round for Tia Lupita Foods, a brand focused on Mexican-inspired food products, and participating in a $4 million Series A funding round for Mezcla, a company known for its innovative nutrition bars. Additionally, they have invested in other startups like Little Sesame and Wildwonder, further solidifying their focus on the gourmet food and beverage sector.


9. Cencosud S.A.


Cencosud S.A. is a prominent retail supermarket company based in Chile, founded in 1976. With over 10,000 employees, it operates across various Latin American countries, providing a diverse range of products, including grocery items and household cleaning supplies. Notably, Cencosud has made significant strides in the gourmet food and beverage sector through strategic acquisitions. In May 2022, they acquired a 67% stake in The Fresh Market, a U.S. supermarket chain known for its gourmet offerings, for $676 million. This acquisition marks Cencosud's entry into the U.S. grocery market and positions them to expand their gourmet food selection. Additionally, their acquisition of Santa Isabel SA and Gbarbosa further demonstrates their commitment to enhancing their grocery portfolio, although these transactions are more focused on traditional supermarket operations. Overall, Cencosud's recent activities indicate a growing interest in the gourmet food segment, making them a noteworthy player in this industry.


10. Enfini Investments


Enfini Investments is a corporate investment firm based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, founded in 2020. The firm specializes in the food tech sector, focusing on fostering technology initiatives that promote sustainable food production. Enfini Investments collaborates closely with its portfolio companies to enhance their business plans and operational strategies. Notable transactions include investments in Good Catch, a plant-based seafood brand, and Aleph Farms, which is known for its cultured meat products. These investments reflect Enfini's commitment to supporting innovative companies that are reshaping the food industry towards sustainability and gourmet offerings. Other significant investments include Future Farm, UPSIDE Foods, and BlueNalu, all of which are involved in developing alternative protein sources and sustainable food technologies, further solidifying Enfini's position in the gourmet food and beverage sector.


11. Order VC

  • Website: ordervc.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: ordervc

Order Venture Capital is a corporate venture capital firm based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, specializing in early-stage consumer goods companies. They provide capital, management consulting, and branding support to help these companies grow and establish strong market positions. Notably, Order VC has been involved in several transactions relevant to the gourmet food and beverage sector, including La Guapa, which raised approximately $9.4 million in a private equity round, and The Coffee, a coffee chain that received a significant investment to expand internationally. Other investments include Enova Foods and Enjoy Snacks, both of which are likely to be involved in the food sector. This diverse portfolio highlights Order VC's commitment to supporting companies within the gourmet food and beverage industry.


12. Crescera Capital

  • Website: crescera.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Rio De Janeiro, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
  • Founded year: 2008
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: bozano-investimentos

Crescera Capital is a private equity and venture capital investment firm based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, founded in 2008. The firm specializes in providing growth capital and strategic guidance to mid-sized companies across various sectors, including education, technology, and health. Notably, Crescera has made significant investments in the gourmet food and beverage sector, with transactions involving companies such as Villa Germania Alimentos, Laticinios Sao Vincente, Rede Oba Hortifruti, Forno de Minas, and Hortifruti. These investments reflect Crescera's commitment to enhancing operational performance and preparing food-related companies for market opportunities, showcasing their capability to contribute to the growth of the gourmet food and beverage industry.


13. Moriah Asset

  • Website: moriahasset.com.br
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
  • Founded year: 2019
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: moriahasset

Moriah Asset is a corporate investor based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, founded in 2019. The firm specializes in technology and wellness, offering innovative tech solutions and health-related products aimed at health-conscious consumers. Their investment strategy includes a focus on healthy snacks and fitness-related services. Notably, Moriah Asset has invested in several companies within the gourmet food and beverage space, including Oakberry, which raised $19,407,678 in a venture round in May 2024, and Naturanic, which secured $2,000,000 in a Series A round in March 2024. Other relevant investments include Desinchá, a company involved in health-oriented beverages, and Frutaria, which likely focuses on fresh and healthy food options. These transactions highlight Moriah Asset's commitment to supporting innovative and health-focused food and beverage brands, reinforcing their position as a leader in the wellness and gourmet food sectors.


14. Norte Ventures

  • Website: norte.ventures
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
  • Founded year: 2020
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 11
  • LinkedIn: norteventures

Norte Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, founded in 2020. The firm specializes in providing resources and support for startups, particularly in the technology sector, while also offering consulting services and educational materials to help entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of building and scaling their businesses. Notably, Norte Ventures has participated in several transactions within the gourmet food and beverage context, including a significant investment in 'The Coffee', a foodtech company that raised R$ 28 million in a Series A round to expand its operations nationally and internationally. Additionally, they have been involved in other food-related startups such as 'Mercê do Bairro', which raised $3.1 million in a Seed round. These investments highlight Norte Ventures' engagement in the gourmet food and beverage industry, despite their broader focus on technology startups.


15. Brf

  • Website: brf-global.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
  • Founded year: 1934
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: brf

BRF is a corporate investor based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, founded in 1934. As a leading food manufacturing company, BRF specializes in the production and distribution of meat and poultry products, emphasizing quality and sustainability. In recent years, BRF has made strategic investments to enhance its operations and expand its market presence. Notably, they acquired a 26% stake in Addoha Poultry Co. to strengthen their foothold in the Middle East and fully acquired Alimentos Calchaquí Productos, which owns the Bocatti cold-cut brand in Argentina. Additionally, BRF's participation in the Series B funding round for Aleph Farms, a company focused on cultured meat, highlights their commitment to innovation in the gourmet food sector. With a diverse customer base that includes both consumers and businesses, BRF is well-positioned in the gourmet food and beverage industry.


16. Canary

  • Website: canary.com.br
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 23
  • LinkedIn: canary-venture-capital

Canary is a venture capital firm based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, founded in 2017. The firm specializes in early-stage investments across Latin America, providing capital, co-founding assistance, and fostering a strong community of entrepreneurs. In 2024, Canary has made 23 investments, showcasing its active role in the startup ecosystem. Notably, they have invested in Cayena, a B2B food marketplace that raised significant funding in multiple rounds, indicating a strong focus on the food industry. Additionally, they participated in the seed round for Mercanto, further emphasizing their engagement in the gourmet food and beverage sector. These transactions highlight Canary's commitment to supporting innovative food-related startups, making them a relevant player in this investment category.


17. Vinci Compass Brasil

  • Website: vincipartners.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Rio De Janeiro, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: vincipartners

Vinci Compass Brasil is a private equity investment management firm based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in a range of financial services, including Private Equity, Infrastructure, Real Estate, and Corporate Advisory, catering to institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals. Vinci Compass has made notable investments in the gourmet food and beverage sector, including a significant funding round for Evino, a wine retail startup that raised R$ 650 million to expand its operations and enhance its market position through acquisitions. Additionally, they acquired the Brazilian operations of Domino's Pizza for approximately US$61 million, with plans to invest heavily in expanding the brand's presence in Brazil. Their involvement with Burger King also highlights their commitment to the food service industry, further solidifying their relevance in the gourmet food and beverage market.


18. Kaszek

  • Website: kaszek.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 17
  • LinkedIn: kaszek-ventures

Kaszek is a venture capital firm based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, founded in 2011. The firm is dedicated to investing in and supporting entrepreneurs across Latin America, particularly in technology-driven industries. With a strong emphasis on long-term partnerships, Kaszek aims to foster a vibrant technology ecosystem in the region. Among their notable transactions, they have invested in Trela, a Brazilian foodtech startup that raised $25 million in a Series A round, indicating their engagement in the food industry. Additionally, they participated in earlier funding rounds for Trela, including a $2.8 million seed round. This involvement in foodtech highlights Kaszek's potential relevance to the gourmet food and beverage sector, as they are supporting innovative companies that could impact the food landscape.



Gourmet Food and Beverage Insights: Key Investors in Latin America


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
bossa investSao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil11-50201156
Grupo BimboMexico City, Mexico City, Mexico10001+19454
JbsSao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil10001+19531
Semillero Partners LLCSan Juan, San Juan, Puerto Rico1-1020161
Massimo Zanetti Beverage BrasilVargem Grande Do Sul, Sao Paulo, Brazil51-20019730
MonasheesSao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil11-50200518
FemsaMonterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico10001+18903
Santatera CapitalGuadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico1-1020222
Cencosud S.A.Chile10001+19760
Enfini InvestmentsSao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil1-1020200
Order VCSao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil1-101
Crescera CapitalRio De Janeiro, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil11-5020087
Moriah AssetSao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil11-5020195
Norte VenturesSao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil1-10202011
BrfSao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil10001+19344
CanarySao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil11-50201723
Vinci Compass BrasilRio De Janeiro, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil501-100020093
KaszekSao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil11-50201117


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