Egypt-based frozen fruits and vegetables company Raya Foods has successfully secured a $40 million investment led by Helios Investment Partners, an African investment fund. This strategic investment aims to bolster Raya Foods’ manufacturing capabilities and enhance its export strategies amidst growing demand in international markets.
The confirmation of this investment was communicated by Helios to Just Food, following an announcement made in a statement available on Zawya. Through this deal, Helios will acquire a 49% stake in Raya Foods, which operates under the umbrella of Raya Holding for Financial Investments.
Raya Foods anticipates that this investment will significantly support its production expansion, including the establishment of a new 25,000 square meters facility in Sadat City. Such enhancements are integral to meeting the increasing global demand for frozen fruits and vegetables.
In a recent statement, Raya Holding for Financial Investments emphasized its commitment to penetrate new international markets through the growth of Raya Foods.
Raya Foods’ CEO, Omar Abdelaziz, remarked, “This investment will accelerate our growth and expand our global operations, significantly enhancing our competitiveness.” Additionally, he highlighted the company’s strategy to diversify its product offerings, introducing freeze-dried fruits and vegetables to align with the rising consumer demand for healthy and sustainable options.
Raed Barkatis, head of consumer and healthcare at Helios Investment Partners, stated that the investment is perceived as a mutually beneficial growth opportunity. He emphasized their confidence in the food sector, especially given the global shift towards healthy foods. Barkatis noted, “We are confident that this partnership will contribute to advancing agricultural development and enhancing food security.”
Currently, Raya Foods boasts an annual production capacity of 50,000 tons and exports its products to over 50 countries, focusing significantly on the European and American markets. As Egypt’s second-largest exporter of frozen fruits and vegetables, the company aims to ascend to the top position within the sector. Furthermore, it seeks to become a leader in the production and export of freeze-dried fruits and vegetables, aligning with current trends in the food and beverage industry.
In summary, the landscape of the food and drink business continues to evolve, influenced by consumer trends toward healthier options. With strategic investments such as this, Raya Foods is well-positioned to capitalize on these changes and enhance its footprint in the food and beverage industry. This investment not only signifies growth for Raya Foods but also reflects the ongoing trends in the food and drink consumer landscape, which increasingly favors sustainable and nutritious offerings.
