InvestIndustrial, a global private-equity group, has finalized an agreement to acquire Spanish ice-cream manufacturer Grupo Alacant.
While the financial specifics of the transaction remain undisclosed, this acquisition positions Grupo Alacant at a strategic juncture. The investor stated its aim is to establish the company as one of Europe’s premier independent private-label ice-cream producers.
Founded in 1972 and based in Alicante, Grupo Alacant primarily engages in private labeling while also co-producing for prominent branded ice-cream companies.
As indicated on its website, the company boasts its own brands: Helados Alacant, Helados Antiu Xixona, and 40 Free From.
In 2024, Grupo Alacant achieved around €225 million ($236 million) in revenue, showcasing a diverse portfolio that includes ice creams in tub formats, cones, as well as ice-cream sandwiches and sticks.
Andrea Bonomi, the chairman of InvestIndustrial’s advisory board, emphasized that the group will guide Alacant through its next developmental phase, which includes expanding beyond Spain.
Grupo Alacant operates four manufacturing facilities across Alicante, Murcia, and Madrid, providing employment for approximately 850 individuals.
Joaquin Lancis, CEO of the private-label manufacturer, expressed, “We are excited to partner with InvestIndustrial as we reinforce our position with key customers and pursue growth beyond Spain.”
He continued, “Given InvestIndustrial’s track record and deep knowledge of the private-label food category, we firmly believe they are the ideal shareholder to support Grupo Alacant in strengthening our operational footprint.”
Moreover, he stated, “We are confident that InvestIndustrial’s insights and contributions will elevate Grupo Alacant to a leading role in the European market.”
InvestIndustrial has already established itself in the ice-cream sector.
In February, the group joined forces with the owners of Italian ice-cream company Sammontana, the Bagnoli family, to acquire bakery group Forno d’Asolo from private-equity firm BC Partners, facilitating a merger between the two businesses.
The Bagnoli family, together with InvestIndustrial and the management team, will hold 100% ownership of the newly formed group.
InvestIndustrial previously cited the “attractive growth potential” of Forno d’Asolo and Sammontana’s “expertise in gelato and frozen-pastry industries” as catalysts for the merger.
The integrated group is projected to generate around €1 billion in revenues, with production facilities located in Italy, the US, and France. It will employ over 2,500 people and operate across various channels, supplying frozen pastry, dessert, and gelato products to bars, restaurants, hotels, food retailers, and catering services.
