Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨

The soft drink manufacturing industry in Europe is a dynamic sector rich with variety. Companies ranging from major global corporations to innovative startups produce a plethora of beverages; from sugary sodas to health-conscious options like sparkling waters and organic juices. Recent trends highlight shifts towards healthier choices and sustainable packaging, responding to consumer demand for natural ingredients and environmentally friendly practices. The rise of e-commerce has also changed distribution methods, allowing smaller brands to reach niche markets more effectively. As a result, this industry is not only competitive but also ripe for innovation and investment.

The investors in this list represent a mix of corporate giants, venture capitalists, and private equity firms, primarily based in Europe. With head offices in countries like Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ UK, France, and Luxembourg, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se investors vary significantly in size, from firms with 10 employees to those with over 5,000. Established mainly between Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ mid-20th century and early 21st century, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir collective investments in 2024 totaled over 350 deals. This highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir ongoing interest in growing sectors, particularly in soft drink manufacturing, where Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y actively seek growth opportunities across diverse categories.

Top 15 Soft Drink Manufacturing Investors in Europe

1. Crowdcube

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn:

Crowdcube is a London-based crowdfunding platform founded in 2010 that enables businesses to raise capital through equity investments. It connects startups and SMEs with potential investors, facilitating Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ funding process. Crowdcube has a strong focus on promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce while providing investment management services to its clients. Notably, Crowdcube has been involved in several transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ soft drink manufacturing sector, including L.A. Brewery, which raised $1,898,937 in equity crowdfunding in February 2021, and INTUNE Drinks, which raised $462,538 in September 2022. Additionally, Jukes Cordialities, anoÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r beverage-related company, raised $853,881 in product crowdfunding in November 2021. These transactions highlight Crowdcube's active role in supporting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ soft drink industry, alongside its broader investment activities.

2. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 198
• LinkedIn:

Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital investor based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 2015. As a public entity and financial institution, Bpifrance supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through various services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. They aim to foster entrepreneurship and innovation by providing coaching and partnerships to help businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in several transactions relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ soft drink manufacturing sector, including a significant investment in Le Petit Beret, a company specializing in non-alcoholic beverages, which raised 1.50 million euros in January 2021. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y participated in funding rounds for oÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r companies like MyBrazil and Grain de Sail, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r showcasing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage industry.

3. ±·±ð²õ³Ù±ôé

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Vevey, Vaud, Switzerland
• Founded year: 1866
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn:

±·±ð²õ³Ù±ôé S.A. is a multinational food and beverage company based in Vevey, Vaud, Switzerland, founded in 1866. With over 10,000 employees, ±·±ð²õ³Ù±ôé offers a diverse range of products, including coffee, dairy, and pet care items. The company has been actively expanding its beverage portfolio through strategic acquisitions. Notably, ±·±ð²õ³Ù±ôé acquired Henniez, a Swiss bottled water brand, in 2007, and more recently, it acquired Essentia Water, a leading alkaline water brand, in 2021, as part of its strategy to enhance its premium beverage offerings. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Princes Gate Spring Water in 2018 furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r solidified its position in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ bottled water market. These transactions highlight ±·±ð²õ³Ù±ôé's commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage sector, particularly in soft drinks and functional water products.

4. Cvc

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Luxembourg
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 16
• LinkedIn:

CVC Capital Partners is a prominent investment firm founded in 2005, specializing in private equity, credit, secondaries, and infrastructure. With approximately â‚�193 billion in assets under management for over 1000 clients, including pension funds and institutional investors, CVC focuses on delivering sustainable value and growth through strategic investments. Among Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir notable transactions in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage sector, CVC acquired Lipton for $5.12 billion in November 2021, highlighting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ soft drink market. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir acquisition of Stock Spirits Group for £767 million in August 2021 furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r emphasizes Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir active role in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ drinks industry, particularly in Eastern Europe. These investments reflect CVC's strategy to leverage established brands in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage sector for growth and value creation.

5. The HEINEKEN Company

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, NeÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨rlands
• Founded year: 1863
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn:

The HEINEKEN Company, founded in 1863 and based in Amsterdam, North Holland, NeÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨rlands, is a leading brewery known for its high-quality beers, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ iconic Heineken® brand. As a corporate investor, HEINEKEN has been actively expanding its portfolio in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage sector, which now includes investments in non-alcoholic and ready-to-drink products. Notable transactions include Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Distell Group Limited for $2.5 billion, which enhances Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir beverage offerings, and a minority stake in Served® Hard Seltzer, a brand focused on hard seltzers and ready-to-drink cocktails. Additionally, HEINEKEN has participated in funding rounds for Double Dutch Drinks and Tenzing Natural Energy, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r demonstrating Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to diversifying into Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ soft drink manufacturing space.

6. Crédit Mutuel Equity

• Website: creditmutuel-equity.eu
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn:

Crédit Mutuel Equity is a private equity investment firm based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 1988. The firm specializes in providing capital and strategic support to businesses across various sectors, integrating economic and ESG considerations into Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir investment strategies. Notably, Crédit Mutuel Equity has been involved in several transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ soft drink manufacturing industry, including investments in Ogeu Groupe, which focuses on bottled water and soft drinks, and Montaner Pietrini Boissons Group, a company engaged in beverage production. OÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r relevant transactions include investments in Routin, known for its syrups and soft drink products, and Grain de Sail, which produces beverages. These investments highlight Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to supporting growth and transformation in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ soft drink sector, alongside Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir broader investment portfolio.

7. Eurazeo

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1969
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 40
• LinkedIn:

Eurazeo is a prominent investment management firm based in Paris, specializing in private equity, private debt, and real assets. Founded in 1969, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ firm has established a significant presence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ investment management landscape, particularly in Europe. Eurazeo Brands, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ consumer packaged goods-focused arm of Eurazeo, has made notable investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ soft drink sector, including a $40 million investment in Q Mixers, aimed at enhancing trade and consumer marketing efforts. Additionally, Eurazeo was part of an investor group that acquired Waterloo Sparkling Water, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r emphasizing its commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage industry. These transactions highlight Eurazeo's strategy of supporting growth and expansion in various sectors, including soft drinks, while maintaining a diversified investment portfolio.

8. Bgf

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 53
• LinkedIn:

BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm founded in 2011, based in London, England. The firm focuses on providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ UK and Ireland. BGF addresses Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ funding gap in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ market by making minority investments and offering extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in Boost Juice Bars UK, a company that operates in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage sector, providing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m with funding to expand Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir store portfolio. Additionally, BGF has invested in Purity Brewing Co., which, while primarily a brewery, is involved in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ production of beverages. These transactions highlight BGF's engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ soft drink manufacturing context, making Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a relevant player in this industry.

9. 3i Group plc

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1945
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn:

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity firm founded in 1945, specializing in private equity and infrastructure investments. The firm focuses on providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, helping Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m grow sustainably. With a strong international presence and a diverse portfolio, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Notably, 3i Group has been involved in significant transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ soft drink manufacturing sector, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Refresco, a Dutch drinks group, for â‚�240 million in 2003. This investment marked Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ soft drink industry and showcases Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir strategy of investing in companies that have growth potential. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have engaged in various funding rounds for companies like Futaste and Mionetto S.p.A, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r illustrating Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir active role in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage sector.

10. Associated British Foods plc

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1935
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn:

Associated British Foods plc is a diversified food, ingredients, and retail company based in London, England. Founded in 1935, ABF operates across various sectors, providing products such as sugar, baker's yeast, and clothing. The company serves both businesses and consumers, ensuring Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ availability of safe and affordable food and clothing globally. Notably, ABF has made significant acquisitions in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage sector, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ purchase of Ovaltine in 2002, which is known for its malted drink products. This acquisition highlights ABF's involvement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage industry, complementing its broader food manufacturing operations. Additionally, ABF has acquired oÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r companies like Twining and Company Limited and Jacksons of Piccadilly, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r diversifying its portfolio, but Ovaltine remains Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ most relevant transaction in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ context of soft drinks.

11. Ardian

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 21
• LinkedIn:

Ardian is a prominent investment management firm based in Paris, specializing in private equity, real assets, and credit solutions. Founded in 1996, Ardian has built a global presence and focuses on sustainable finance, aiming to create lasting value for its clients. In recent years, Ardian has made significant investments in various sectors, including food and beverage. Notably, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y acquired Florida Food Products, a company with an enterprise value exceeding $1 billion, reflecting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir strategy to invest in mid-and large-cap companies in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ U.S. market. Additionally, Ardian's acquisition of Frulact, a natural food ingredients supplier, for approximately â‚�200 million highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir interest in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food sector, which is closely related to soft drink manufacturing. These transactions illustrate Ardian's capability and interest in sectors that intersect with soft drink production, making Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a noteworthy investor in this space.

12. Carlsberg Group

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Grimstad, Agder, Norway
• Founded year: 1847
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn:

Carlsberg Group, founded in 1847 and based in Grimstad, Agder, Norway, is a leading brewery known for its production of beer and a variety of beverages. The company has a strong global presence and emphasizes sustainability and quality in its brewing processes. In recent years, Carlsberg has expanded its footprint in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ soft drink manufacturing industry through strategic acquisitions. Notably, in July 2024, Carlsberg acquired Britvic, a prominent British soft drink manufacturer, for £3.3 billion, creating a new entity called Carlsberg Britvic that enhances Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir non-alcoholic beverage offerings. Additionally, in December 2007, Carlsberg acquired a 70% stake in Lao Soft Drink Co Ltd, which holds a commanding 90% market share in Laos. These transactions reflect Carlsberg's commitment to diversifying its product range and strengÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ning its position in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ soft drink market.

13. Kerry

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Naas, Kildare, Ireland
• Founded year: 1972
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn:

Kerry is a corporate investor based in Naas, Kildare, Ireland, founded in 1972. The Kerry Health and Nutrition Institute focuses on advancing science for healthier food and provides resources and research to support professionals in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food and beverage industry. Notably, Kerry has made several strategic acquisitions in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage sector, including Big Train, a company known for its beverage mixes, Oregon Chai, which specializes in chai tea products, and Island Oasis, a producer of frozen beverage mixes. These acquisitions highlight Kerry's commitment to expanding its footprint in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage market, particularly in areas that complement Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir focus on health and nutrition.

14. Azelis

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Antwerp, Flanders, Belgium
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 5
• LinkedIn:

Azelis is a corporate investor based in Antwerp, Flanders, Belgium, founded in 2001. As a specialty chemical distributor and innovation service provider, Azelis caters to over 63,000 customers across Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ life sciences and industrial sectors. They focus on delivering high-quality raw materials and innovative formulations tailored to specific market needs. In 2024, Azelis announced several significant acquisitions aimed at strengÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ning Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir position in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food and nutrition market, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Hortimex, a Polish specialty chemicals distributor, and Gillco Ingredients, a US-based specialty ingredient provider. These transactions highlight Azelis's commitment to expanding its portfolio in sectors that are relevant to soft drink manufacturing, as Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y provide essential ingredients and formulations that could be utilized in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ production of soft drinks.

15. IDIA Capital Investissement

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1980
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn:

IDIA Capital Investissement is a private equity investment management firm based in Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 1980. The firm specializes in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-sized companies (ETIs) in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir growth, offering investment management services and strategic guidance. IDIA focuses on sectors such as agro-food, energy transition, and viticulture. Notably, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have invested in Montaner Pietrini Boissons, a significant player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage distribution market, which highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir involvement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage sector. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have participated in various funding rounds for companies like Polenghi Group and Malteurop, although Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se are less directly related to soft drinks. Their investment in Montaner Pietrini Boissons underscores Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir capability and interest in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage industry, making Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a relevant investor in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ soft drink manufacturing context.

Soft Drink Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in Europe

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	2010	3
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	1-10	2015	198
	Vevey, Vaud, Switzerland	10001+	1866	2
	Luxembourg	1001-5000	2005	16
	Amsterdam, North Holland, NeÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨rlands	10001+	1863	4
Crédit Mutuel Equity	Paris, Île-De-France, France	51-200	1988	2
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	201-500	1969	40
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	2011	53
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	201-500	1945	3
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	10001+	1935	1
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	1001-5000	1996	21
	Grimstad, Agder, Norway	10001+	1847	2
	Naas, Kildare, Ireland	10001+	1972	1
	Antwerp, Flanders, Belgium	1001-5000	2001	5
	Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France	11-50	1980	1

Want to find more investors focusing on Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ soft drink manufacturing industry?

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With Inven, you'll also get to know:

• Deal History: Number of deals and Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir sizes.
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• ...and much more!