The gourmet food and beverage industry in Benelux thrives on quality, creativity, and sustainability. This sector features a mix of small artisanal producers and larger corporations, all working to satisfy the growing consumer demands for gourmet experiences. Companies in this space produce high-quality ingredients, innovative beverages, and specialty foods. Localize flavors and fresh sourcing are pivotal trends, with a significant push towards plant-based and organic options. As consumers increasingly prioritize health and environmental consciousness, the industry is responding with inventive solutions and premium offerings that cater to their evolving tastes.


The roster of investors showcases a mix of corporate, venture capital, and private equity firms. They span diverse locations across Benelux, including Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. Ranging in size from small teams to larger firms, these investors contribute significantly to the sector with various deal counts in 2024. Notable investors include AB InBev and HEINEKEN, both of which are deeply embedded in the beverage segment. This amalgamation of investment styles illustrates the dynamic growth prospects of the gourmet food and beverage industry in the region.


Top 19 Gourmet Food and Beverage Investors in Benelux


1. 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. The firm 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 gourmet food and beverage sector, CVC has made notable acquisitions, including Deoleo, a leading Spanish olive oil producer, and Dodoni, a Greek dairy brand recognized for its specialty cheese products. Additionally, their acquisition of Lipton, a major beverage brand, further emphasizes their engagement in the food and beverage industry. Their recent acquisition of Berlys, a company involved in the food sector, also aligns with their strategy to invest in gourmet food and beverage companies, showcasing their commitment to this market.


2. The HEINEKEN Company

  • Website: theheinekencompany.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 1863
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: heineken

The HEINEKEN Company, founded in 1863 and based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is a leading brewery known for its diverse range of beers and beverages, including the iconic Heineken® brand. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, the company focuses on quality and brand reputation in the brewing industry. In recent years, HEINEKEN has made strategic investments to expand its presence in the gourmet beverage sector. Notably, in September 2023, they acquired a minority stake in Served® Hard Seltzer, a brand that offers hard seltzers and ready-to-drink cocktails, aiming to capitalize on the growing RTD market in the UK. Additionally, they participated in a venture round for Double Dutch Drinks, a brand known for its premium mixers, raising over $5 million in June 2023. HEINEKEN has also strengthened its craft beer portfolio through acquisitions, such as Texelse Bierbrouwerij, the third largest specialty craft brewery in the Netherlands, and Lagunitas Brewing Company, which is recognized for its innovative craft beers. These transactions highlight HEINEKEN's commitment to enhancing its gourmet beverage offerings and adapting to consumer trends.


3. 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 several transactions, including funding rounds for Phytolon, which raised an undisclosed amount in a venture round and $4.1 million in a seed round, indicating their commitment to innovative food solutions. Additionally, they provided non-equity assistance to companies like Neggst and MATR Foods, which may also be involved in the gourmet food and beverage space, showcasing their active role in supporting diverse food-related ventures.


4. AB InBev

  • Website: ab-inbev.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
  • Founded year: 1977
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: abinbev

Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev) is a leading global brewing company based in Leuven, Belgium, founded in 1977. With over 10,000 employees, AB InBev produces and sells a diverse range of beer brands worldwide, catering to consumers who appreciate quality beer and businesses in the hospitality and retail sectors. The company is committed to sustainability and responsible drinking. Notably, AB InBev has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its portfolio in the craft beer segment, which is often associated with gourmet offerings. These include the acquisition of Wicked Weed Brewing in 2017, a craft brewery known for its innovative beers, and 4 Pines Beer, a Sydney-based craft brewery, also acquired in 2017. Additionally, AB InBev acquired Swish Beverages in 2019, which owns the Babe canned rosé brand, further expanding its non-beer offerings. Other notable acquisitions include Breckenridge Brewery and Golden Road Brewing, both recognized for their commitment to quality and sustainability. These transactions reflect AB InBev's strategy to tap into the growing demand for premium and craft beverages, positioning them as a relevant investor in the gourmet food and beverage space.


5. dsm-firmenich

  • Website: dsm-firmenich.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Maastricht, Limburg, Netherlands
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: dsmfirmenich

dsm-firmenich is a for-profit company based in Maastricht, Limburg, Netherlands, operating primarily in the nutrition, health, and beauty sectors. The company offers a diverse range of products, including fragrances, nutritional supplements, and active pharmaceutical ingredients, serving various industries with innovative solutions aimed at enhancing product offerings and addressing sustainability challenges. Notably, dsm-firmenich has made significant investments in the gourmet food and beverage sector, including a $14.5 million Series A funding round for Phytolon, an Israeli start-up focused on commercializing proprietary colors for food and beverage applications. Additionally, they co-led a $6 million Series A funding round for Chinova Bioworks, a food tech startup that has developed a natural preservative derived from mushrooms, aimed at improving food and beverage preservation. These transactions underscore dsm-firmenich's active role in supporting innovation within the gourmet food and beverage industry.


6. Astanor

  • Website: astanor.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Luxembourg
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 10
  • LinkedIn: astanor-venture

Astanor is an impact investment firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 2017, that specializes in the agrifood tech sector. They are dedicated to supporting innovative companies that aim to create sustainable food systems through strategic guidance and investment. Astanor has been involved in several notable transactions in the gourmet food and beverage context, including leading a €16.5 million Series A funding round for Stockeld Dreamery, a Swedish alt-dairy startup focused on creating ambitious cheese alternatives. Additionally, they participated in funding rounds for Umiami, a Paris-based foodtech company, which has raised significant capital to develop its innovative food products. Astanor's expertise and commitment to sustainability position them as a key player in the evolving landscape of gourmet food and beverage investments.


7. Verlinvest

  • Website: verlinvest.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: verlinvest

Verlinvest is a Brussels-based venture capital firm founded in 1995, specializing in high-growth consumer brands across various sectors, including food, beverage, health, and technology. The firm provides long-term capital and strategic advisory services to help brands scale and innovate. Verlinvest has a diverse portfolio that includes notable investments in the gourmet food and beverage industry, such as Oatly, a leader in oat-based dairy alternatives, and Sir Kensington's, a New York-based company known for its premium condiments. Additionally, they have invested in Sambazon, which focuses on premium acai products, and recently acquired a significant stake in Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, India's leading specialty coffee and bakery brand. These investments highlight Verlinvest's commitment to supporting innovative and sustainable brands in the gourmet food and beverage sector.


8. Jab Holding Company LLC

  • Website: jabholco.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2007
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: jab-holding-company-llc

JAB Holding Company LLC is a private equity investment firm based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, founded in 2007. The firm specializes in consumer goods and services, with a diverse portfolio that includes significant investments in the gourmet food and beverage sector. JAB has made notable acquisitions such as Peet's Coffee & Tea for approximately $1 billion, Caribou Coffee Company for around $340 million, and Krispy Kreme for $1.35 billion. In addition, JAB has increased its stake in JDE Peet's, a major player in the coffee industry, by acquiring shares worth $2.3 billion. The firm also acquired Espresso House for €258 million, further solidifying its presence in the gourmet coffee market. JAB's strategy focuses on long-term investments and creating sustainable value, catering to consumers who prioritize quality products and services.


9. PeakBridge


PeakBridge VC is a venture capital firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 2018, that specializes in FoodTech investments. The firm supports early-stage founders and businesses in the food industry by providing investment, consulting services, and access to a vast network of industry experts. Their focus is on innovative solutions that address significant challenges in the global food system, making them a key player in the FoodTech sector. Notable transactions include leading the Series A funding rounds for Vanilla Vida, a food tech company focused on gourmet vanilla products, and WNWN Food Labs, which is developing cocoa-free chocolate. Additionally, they participated in the Series A funding for Rival Foods, which is working on new protein sources and formulations. These investments highlight PeakBridge's active role in the gourmet food and beverage industry, particularly in supporting innovative and sustainable food solutions.


10. Azelis

  • Website: azelis.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Antwerp, Flanders, Belgium
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: azelis

Azelis is a corporate investor based in Antwerp, Belgium, specializing in the distribution of specialty chemicals and providing innovation services. Founded in 2001, the company serves over 63,000 customers across various sectors, including life sciences and industrial applications. In recent years, Azelis has made strategic acquisitions to strengthen its position in the gourmet food and beverage industry. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Hortimex, a Polish distributor focused on food ingredients and nutraceuticals, and Tunçkaya, a Turkish distributor of food ingredients and additives. These acquisitions aim to enhance Azelis' footprint in the food and nutrition market, showcasing their commitment to providing high-quality raw materials and innovative solutions for the gourmet food sector. Additionally, their acquisition of Gillco Ingredients, a specialty ingredient provider in the US food and nutrition market, further emphasizes their focus on this industry.


11. 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 aims to support sustainable projects across various sectors, including the gourmet food and beverage industry. In recent transactions, EIB has participated in financing notable companies such as Rohlik, which raised significant funds in both debt financing and venture rounds, indicating a strong presence in the food delivery and grocery sector. Additionally, EIB has supported Formo, MATR Foods, and Carbery Group through debt financing, all of which are involved in food production and innovation. These transactions highlight EIB's commitment to promoting growth and job creation within the gourmet food and beverage sector, alongside its broader investment strategy.


12. Prosus Group

  • Website: prosus.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2019
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 21
  • LinkedIn: prosus-group

Prosus Group is a global technology investor and operator based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, founded in 2019. The firm focuses on enhancing everyday life through technology across various sectors, including online classifieds, food delivery, payments, and education technology. With over 10,000 employees and a significant number of investments, Prosus partners with local entrepreneurs to create valuable products and services. Notably, Prosus has made strategic investments in the gourmet food and beverage industry, including a $30 million investment in Prime Roots, a plant-based deli and charcuterie company, which aims to expand its presence in the market. Additionally, Prosus is acquiring Just Eat Takeaway, a major player in the meal delivery sector, for €4.1 billion, further solidifying its commitment to the food industry. These transactions highlight Prosus's active role in fostering innovation and growth within the gourmet food and beverage space.


13. Rockstart

  • Website: rockstart.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: rockstart

Rockstart is a startup accelerator and investment firm based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, founded in 2011. They empower early-stage founders across various sectors, including AgriFood, Energy, and Emerging Technology, by providing investment, mentorship, and networking opportunities. In the gourmet food and beverage context, Rockstart has made notable investments such as in Willicroft, a Netherlands-based alt cheese startup that raised €2 million in a pre-seed round to expand its sustainable product offerings in European markets. Additionally, they participated in funding rounds for Reduced, a Copenhagen-based foodtech startup that focuses on creating plant-based flavor enhancers, raising significant amounts in both pre-seed and seed rounds. These transactions highlight Rockstart's active role in supporting innovative solutions within the gourmet food and beverage industry.


14. Wessanen Benelux (B Corp)


Wessanen Benelux (B Corp) is a corporate investor based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, specializing in organic and plant-based food products. Founded in 1765, the company has a long history of promoting sustainability and biodiversity through its diverse range of offerings, including dairy-free drinks, breakfast cereals, and vegetarian spreads. Wessanen has made significant acquisitions in the gourmet food and beverage sector, including Clipper Teas, a leader in organic and fair-trade teas, and Alter Eco, a prominent French organic food company. Additionally, the acquisition of Abafoods, which specializes in organic vegetal drinks, and Abbot Kinney's, known for its organic almond and coconut yogurts and ice creams, further solidifies Wessanen's position in the gourmet market. These strategic moves reflect Wessanen's commitment to enhancing its portfolio with high-quality, sustainable products that cater to health-conscious consumers.


15. Sofina

  • Website: sofinagroup.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
  • Founded year: 1898
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: sofina

Sofina is a Brussels-based venture capital investment company founded in 1898, specializing in providing patient capital to growing businesses across various sectors, including telecommunications, consumer goods, and energy. The firm partners with entrepreneurs and family-owned businesses, offering strategic advice and long-term investment solutions to foster sustainable growth. Notably, Sofina has made significant investments in the gourmet food and beverage sector, including a prominent investment in Paper Boat, a Gurugram-based beverage and snack brand. Paper Boat has raised multiple rounds of funding, including a Series C round where Sofina participated, highlighting its commitment to the food and beverage industry. Additionally, Sofina's investment in Kopi Kenangan, an Indonesian coffee startup, further demonstrates its engagement in the beverage market, reinforcing its relevance in the gourmet food and beverage space.


16. Louis Dreyfus Company

  • Website: ldc.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Rotterdam, South Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 1851
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: louis-dreyfus-company

Louis Dreyfus Company B.V. is a corporate investor based in Rotterdam, Netherlands, with a long history dating back to 1851. As a for-profit agricultural merchant and processor, LDC operates across various sectors, including food processing, bioenergy, and transportation. The company plays a crucial role in supplying a diverse range of agricultural products to the food and beverage industry, ensuring a reliable and sustainable supply chain. In 2024, LDC announced its acquisition of Cacique, the largest exporter of soluble coffee in Brazil, as part of its strategy to expand its soluble coffee business. Additionally, LDC led a $26.35 million funding round for Good Catch, a plant-based seafood brand, aimed at product development and market expansion. These transactions highlight LDC's commitment to investing in innovative food solutions and its active role in the gourmet food and beverage sector.


17. Lotus Bakeries


Lotus Bakeries NV, founded in 1932 and based in Kaprijke, Flanders, Belgium, is a prominent snack food manufacturer recognized for its gourmet offerings, including the iconic Biscoff cookies and a range of healthy snack bars. The company serves both consumers and businesses in the retail and food service sectors, emphasizing quality and innovation in its products. Lotus Bakeries has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its position in the gourmet food market, including the acquisition of Peter’s Yard in 2022, a UK-based maker of sourdough crackers and crisps, which further diversifies its gourmet snack portfolio. Other notable acquisitions include Koninklijke Peijnenburg, a leading Dutch gingerbread firm, and Biscuiterie Willems BVBA, showcasing Lotus Bakeries' commitment to expanding its gourmet food offerings. With multiple production facilities across several countries, Lotus Bakeries continues to strengthen its presence in the gourmet food and beverage industry.


18. Capital V

  • Website: capitalv.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Belgium
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: capitalv-vc

Capital V is a venture capital firm based in Belgium, founded in 2015, that specializes in vegan investments. The firm focuses on funding startups that create sustainable alternatives to animal products, addressing health, environmental, and animal welfare issues. Their clientele primarily consists of innovative businesses in the plant-based sector seeking financial support to scale their operations. Notable transactions include investments in Veggie Victory, a Nigerian vegan food tech startup aiming to expand its product offerings across Africa; Väcka, a Barcelona-based food tech company that closed a €1.1 million investment round to develop new technologies; and Heura Foods, which raised funds to enhance its product line in the plant-based market. These investments highlight Capital V's commitment to supporting the growth of high-quality, innovative food products in the gourmet food and beverage space.


19. NPM Capital

  • Website: npm-capital.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 1948
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: npm-capital

NPM Capital is a private equity investment firm based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, founded in 1948. The firm focuses on supporting medium-sized and large companies, particularly family-owned enterprises in the Benelux region, by providing capital and strategic advisory services to help these businesses achieve growth and sustainability. NPM Capital operates across various sectors, including technology and education, but has also made significant investments in the gourmet food and beverage industry. Notable transactions include the acquisition of HAK, a prominent Dutch food brand known for its high-quality vegetable products, and Continental Bakeries, which specializes in baked goods. Additionally, NPM Capital's investment in Agro Care, Europe's largest tomato producer, highlights their commitment to the food sector, providing growth capital to support expansion and technological advancements. These transactions demonstrate NPM Capital's active role in the gourmet food and beverage market.



Gourmet Food and Beverage Insights: Key Investors in Benelux


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
CvcLuxembourg1001-5000200516
The HEINEKEN CompanyAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands10001+18634
EIT FoodLeuven, Flanders, Belgium51-200201637
AB InBevLeuven, Flanders, Belgium10001+19772
dsm-firmenichMaastricht, Limburg, Netherlands10001+3
AstanorLuxembourg11-50201710
VerlinvestBrussels, Brussels, Belgium11-5019955
Jab Holding Company LLCAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands10001+20071
PeakBridgeLuxembourg11-5020188
AzelisAntwerp, Flanders, Belgium1001-500020015
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
Prosus GroupAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands10001+201921
RockstartAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands11-50201116
Wessanen Benelux (B Corp)Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands51-20017650
SofinaBrussels, Brussels, Belgium51-20018984
Louis Dreyfus CompanyRotterdam, South Holland, Netherlands10001+18515
Lotus BakeriesKaprijke, Flanders, Belgium1001-500019320
Capital VBelgium1-1020150
NPM CapitalAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands11-5019481


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