Clearwater International advises Abénex on the acquisition of a minority stake in Di Marco

Clearwater International has advised Abénex, a French private equity fund specialising in mid-market investments at a European level, on the acquisition of a minority stake in Corrado Di Marco S.r.l. (Di Marco). Owned by the Di Marco family and based in Rome, inventor and leader in the Pinsa Romana market, developed by Corrado Di Marco in 2001.

Abénex is an established player in the private equity industry, having an extensive track record of more than €2billion investment in market-leading companies with high-growth potential at a national and international level, to support and accelerate their development process. This transaction is the first deal in Italy by Abénex, who believe strongly in the Italian market.

Established in 1981, with an expected turnover of around €40m in 2022 (+50% vs. 2021), Di Marco is recognised internationally for its innovative products. These include the bases for fresh, ambient and frozen Pinsa in different formats, as well as for its flour mixes, specifically designed for the preparation of Pinsa Romana and pan pizzas.

Di Marco distinguishes itself in the sector for its constant activity in R&D, launching innovative products such as Nuvola, a Pinsa base for large-scale distribution, as well as various gluten-free bases and flours.

Abénex acquired a minority stake in the company from the Di Marco family, with the aim of further accelerating its growth, to support the business plan and internationalisation process, thanks to its operational skills.