Italy: Ambienta acquires majority stake in The Bridge

Ambienta, the European private equity firm focused on environmental sustainability, has acquired a majority stake in The Bridge, an Italian producer of organic plant-based drinks and dairy alternatives.

Based in San Pietro Mussolino (Vicenza), The Bridge specialises in 100% organic, vegan, cholesterol- and lactose-free products. Its portfolio includes plant-based beverages, yoghurts and desserts made from ingredients such as rice, soy, almonds and oats. Founded in 1994, the company is reported to be a pioneer in the sector and currently generates approximately 80% of its revenue from international markets through its own brand and private-label partnerships.

The founding Negro Marcigaglia family has reinvested alongside Ambienta and will continue to play a key role in the company’s growth. The investment is intended to support the firm’s international expansion and product innovation within the European plant-based dairy alternatives market, which is valued at more than €4.3 billion ($4.65 billion).

Francesco Lodrini, partner at Ambienta, commented: “Food production is one of the most critical areas in the transition to a more sustainable economy, and plant-based alternatives play a key role in reducing the environmental footprint of the agrifood value chain”.

Source: Ambienta / Just Food / Green Queen / Food and Beverage Business / Baker McKenzie