We have advised Bluegem Capital Partners, a pan-European, mid-market private equity firm specialising in real economy staple businesses, on the acquisition of Rispo Group, a leading Italian producer of premium frozen specialities comprising Rispo, Garbo, Gela, and Panificio Villa, from funds managed by Europe Capital Partners.
Rispo Group, built through the combination of four Italian specialists (Rispo, Garbo, Gela and Panificio Villa), is a leading producer of premium frozen specialities that combines traditional Italian recipes and artisanal expertise with industrial-scale production across four factories in Italy. The product portfolio, 100% Made in Italy, comprises a wide range of Italian specialities, including arancini, supplì, olive all’ascolana, crocchè, and courgette flowers, as well as pinsa and focaccia Romana. The group employs over 250 people and serves more than 750 customers across foodservice, retail, and B2B channels, in Italy and in more than 15 countries across four continents. In 2026, Rispo expects to generate revenues of over €90m and an EBITDA of approximately €14m.
Through this transaction, Bluegem intends to work alongside Rispo Group’s Chief Executive Officer, Franck Bocquet, and management team, to create a leading pan-European platform in premium frozen specialities, accelerating its growth in international markets, strengthening the commercial organisation, investing in product innovation, and pursuing add-on acquisitions in Italy and across Europe. Rispo Group’s management team will reinvest alongside Bluegem, retaining a minority stake in the group, and will be supported by Paolo Perego, who will be appointed Chairman of Rispo Group and brings more than 35 years of experience in the food and beverage industry.
The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals and closing conditions.
