Hilton Foods has announced a strategic investment from the Apax Global Impact Fund. The board aims to leverage Apax’s “technology expertise to accelerate [the] next phase of growth” at Foods Connected.
Upon completion of the transaction, pending customary regulatory approvals, Hilton Foods will maintain a 26% stake in Foods Connected.
Foods Connected functions as a vital enabler within the group’s end-to-end supply chain management strategy. By utilising advanced technology, the platform provides real-time data, optimising supply chains while enhancing cost efficiency, quality standards, risk visibility, and sustainability.
Furthermore, the Apax Global Impact Fund believes Foods Connected is well-positioned for global scaling, aiming to advance “safer, more transparent and sustainable” food supply chains.
Steve Murrells, CEO of Hilton Foods, expressed enthusiasm for the new partnership with the Apax Global Impact Fund team. He stated, “They have the right experience, capabilities and infrastructure to help us realise, at pace, the full scale of the opportunities ahead for Foods Connected.”
“This partnership positions Foods Connected to deliver greater value to customers and remains central to our strategy. This strategic investment strengthens our ability to meet clients’ evolving needs, underscores the platform we’ve built and enables us to sharpen our focus on our core food business. I look forward to working with the Apax team as we strengthen and grow Foods Connected, for the benefit of Hilton Foods and our international customer base.”
In addition, Edward Donkor, partner at Apax Global Impact, noted, “We’ve been closely following the food safety sector worldwide, and Foods Connected stood out as a strong platform to invest behind. Many food businesses still use outdated tools like spreadsheets and paper, creating a clear opportunity for Foods Connected to modernise operations.”
“We’re excited to partner with Hilton Foods and Roger McCracken, Co-founder and CEO of Foods Connected, to accelerate the business’s expansion. Together, we’ll invest in new markets, strengthen sales and marketing, pursue strategic acquisitions, and increase value for existing customers through expanded capabilities and resources. We look forward to the journey ahead and the impact we can achieve together.”
