Capdesia is an investment firm based in London and Brussels, focused on the branded consumer food service sector. We provide creative capital and unparalleled industry expertise to expansion-stage quick service, fast casual, and casual dining restaurant chains and related businesses across Europe, in support of acquisitions, development, international expansion, recapitalizations and other complex situations. We like purpose-driven brands with scalable, technology-enabled operational models, and look to invest €15-150 million over the life of an investment (typically 5-7 years). We can take minority and majority positions and can structure transactions with a mix of equity and debt, thereby providing a less dilutive funding solution than traditional buy-out firms.
Changing demographics, busy lifestyles, globalization, technology and the COVID-19 pandemic are revolutionizing the restaurant industry, thereby creating a huge opportunity for a new generation of food service companies capable of offering tastier, healthier foods, fast speed of service, and convenience at affordable prices. Capdesia believes in investing responsibly and growing sustainable businesses with a purpose that goes beyond generating financial returns. We adhere to comprehensive ESG principles at all stages of our investment process and regard ESG not only as a significant part of every investment thesis, but also as a tangible source of value creation.
Purpose
Capdesia’s business model revolves around finding and supporting best-in-class operators with a view to helping them build exceptional businesses. To do so, we take an active involvement in our portfolio companies by providing management the tools to unlock tangible strategic, operational and financial levers of value creation. This may include brand building, unit development, new market entries, franchising, business process and supply chain optimisation and the use of technology.
As specialist investors, we seek to contribute to the positive impact that the food service industry can make on the environment, including in areas such as responsible procurement, sustainable packaging, waste reduction and energy efficiency. Given their labour-intensive model, food services companies also carry an enormous social responsibility. Capdesia is committed to ensure a work environment, for itself and its portfolio companies, that is safe, provides equal opportunity, treats people fairly and with dignity, and fosters individual development.
Alignment with Guiding Principles
At the Council for Inclusive Capitalism, we invite companies of all sizes, industries, and geographies to champion our Guiding Principles for Inclusive Action and demonstrate how they contribute to meaningful change. To ensure alignment with our principles, our members are assessed by at least one reporting body, sustainability-related certificate, benchmark, rating agency or similar organization.
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Recognizing it will take alignment of all our organizations to scale impact globally, we invite you to join the movement as a Steward of Inclusive Capitalism. Together, the collective action of Council members will contribute to a fairer, more inclusive and sustainable future for all people and our planet.
