Entrepreneurial investment firm Columna Capital has acquired a majority stake in Zumex, which specialises in designing, manufacturing and marketing fruit and vegetable juicing technologies. The aim of this transaction is to boost the company's five-year strategic business plan, which is centred on international expansion, greater penetration in current markets and greater focus on the retail market.

The British group is Zumex’s first institutional investor. Both parties see their participation as a key partnership for the future of the company, which was founded in 1985 by Víctor Bertolín. Initially specialising in freshly squeezed orange juice, the company now offers its solutions in more than 100 countries, with a strong presence in the foodservice and retail segments.

Innovation and development
Bertolín will remain fully involved in the day-to-day business, ensuring management continuity during this new phase. Innovation and product development will continue to be two of the key factors in the new strategy for accelerating the company's international growth and increasing penetration in key markets.

Mindful of the growing consumer demand for fresh, natural products, Zumex's recent launch was a machine equipped with a self-cleaning function and IoT (Internet of things) functionality.

Jaime Bachs Lobo, Principal at Columna Capital, described the new phase as an “exciting journey”, and said, “Zumex's outstanding team and innovation capabilities, together with its ability to offer the best value proposition to its customers, will be key in consolidating its leadership position globally”.

World leader
Michael Tose, Partner at Columna Capital, praised Bertolín's leadership role, “Over almost forty years, Víctor has built up Zumex to become the global leader in juicing solutions. We are delighted to support Zumex in the next phase of its development. We will leverage our long-standing track record of partnerships with pioneering entrepreneurs to accelerate the company’s growth internationally.”

Bertolín is in turn excited to announce an agreement “that represents the start of a new chapter in Zumex’s history. The company will benefit from Columna's strong financial backing, solid business focus and proven growth expertise. This strategic alliance will accelerate our expansion plans, strengthen our operational excellence, and increase our ability to tackle ambitious projects and seize new growth opportunities worldwide.”

^{Photo: Zumex}