On Tuesday, August 27, 2024, it was announced that AS Equity Partners, a private equity firm, has signed a definitive agreement with HOCHDORF HOLDING Ltd to acquire HOCHDORF Swiss Nutrition Ltd (HSN). This transaction will support HSN’s next phase of growth as a global provider of infant nutrition and special food solutions.
Established in 1895, HOCHDORF (HSN) is a leading milk processor in Switzerland with annual revenues of over CHF 300 million. The company specializes in producing high-quality infant nutrients and specialized foods for all age groups. It is known for its expertise in milk processing and advanced technology for powder drying and mixing. With over 350 employees, HOCHDORF serves both industrial and consumer markets globally.
The completion of this transaction is subject to the approval of a qualified majority of HOCHDORF Holding shareholders at an Extraordinary General Meeting on September 18, 2024. The terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
Ralph Siegl, CEO and Delegate of the Board of Directors of the HOCHDORF Group, stated, “During the intensive exploratory talks, AS Equity Partners expressed great interest in HSN’s potential and acknowledged the strategic direction of our transformation process in recent years. HSN’s business activities will be further expanded, and its reliable role in the Swiss dairy industry is secured.”
Andreas Schulte, Founder and Managing Partner of AS Equity Partners, also shared his excitement about the acquisition, stating, “The technological expertise of HOCHDORF Swiss Nutrition, its relevance in modern nutrition, and the encouraging trend in operational recovery is a compelling basis for us to tap into this interesting international potential. As active investors with extensive expertise and operational capabilities in tech-enabled manufacturing and international market expansion, we aim to expand HNS’ business and enhance its strategy and performance to become a dominant market leader.”
AS Equity Partners is a highly experienced London and Zurich-based special situations investor that focuses on underperforming firms or complex carve-outs in the mid-market, with a strong presence in Europe. With deep sector expertise and operational capability in tech-enabled businesses and manufacturing, the firm consistently delivers predictable value creation. Currently managing over €400 million in capital and with over 8,500 employees internationally, AS Equity Partners is a leading “Independent Sponsor” with initial equity tickets up to CHF 150 million.
Founded in 1895, HOCHDORF is the Swiss center of excellence for milk processing, specializing in powder drying and mixing technology for milk-based and alternative proteins. The company develops functional foods and ingredients for industrial customers and consumers worldwide, with a mission to shape the changing eating habits of society. In 2023, the HOCHDORF Group achieved a consolidated net sales revenue of CHF 307.8 million and employs 361 staff.
For media inquiries, please contact Maitri O’Brien at maitri.obrien@as-equitypartners.com for AS Equity Partners and Marlene Betschart at marlene.betschart@hochdorf.com for HOCHDORF Holding Ltd.
This news was distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/.
