Capdesia, a London-based growth equity firm, is planning to launch a €200 million fund targeting European food service businesses, sister publication Private Equity International has learned.
The firm is in early discussions with investors and aims to hold a first close before the end of the year, according to a source with knowledge of the fund. Up to 70 percent of its commitments are expected to come from European limited partners.
The Luxembourg-domiciled vehicle will target minority and control positions in food service businesses across Europe, including the UK, Germany, France, Benelux, Spain and the Nordics, the source noted. It will have the option to structure transactions with a mix of equity and debt.
Capdesia declined to comment.
The firm was founded last year by Christopher Unrath, a co-founder of US private debt firm CapitalSpring, and Niels Lorijn, formerly chairman at CapitalSpring and head of private equity at Bahrain’s Oasis Capital Bank, according to its website. Abe Matamoros, ex-head of international development at UK food chain Leon, is also listed as a co-founder.
It is understood the trio – who together have invested $600 million in 70 restaurant companies, according to the website – are joined by 12 investment and operating staff. Capdesia is expected to make a further two mid- and senior-level appointments before first close.
The firm aims to invest €10 million to €30 million over the life of an investment in businesses with at least five sites or revenues of €10 million, according to its website.