KKR, a leading global investment firm, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire a majority stake in Refresco Group B.V., one of the largest independent beverage contract manufacturers globally. Existing investors PAI Partners and British Columbia Investment Management Corporation (BCI) will retain a significant minority position. The transaction's terms remain undisclosed and are subject to closing conditions.

Founded in 1999, Refresco operates over 70 manufacturing sites across Europe, the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, providing comprehensive beverage solutions for retailers and branded companies. The company supports its customers with material planning, procurement, manufacturing, warehousing, fulfillment, and distribution.

KKR aims to bolster Refresco's global footprint, enhancing its ability to serve existing and new customers through various formats and channels. The focus will be on sustainable sourcing, responsible production, and environmentally friendly operations to meet the growing demand for sustainable beverage solutions.

Hans Roelofs, CEO of Refresco, expressed enthusiasm about KKR's investment, highlighting the firm's operational expertise, access to capital, and extensive network. He emphasized that the company's growth strategy, including expanding into new categories and geographies, remains unchanged.

James Cunningham, Partner at KKR, praised Refresco's industry leadership, experienced management team, and commitment to sustainability. He looks forward to leveraging KKR's operational expertise to support Refresco's growth and sustainability efforts.

Frédéric Stévenin, Managing Partner of PAI Partners, and Julian Remedios, Senior Managing Director of Private Equity at BCI, both expressed excitement about continuing their partnership with Refresco and KKR, emphasizing Refresco's unique capabilities and growth potential.

KKR's investment is part of its Global Infrastructure strategy, established in 2008. The firm manages approximately $40 billion in infrastructure assets and has made over 60 investments across various sub-sectors and geographies.

Refresco, headquartered in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, employs over 10,000 people and focuses on innovation to improve product quality and packaging in line with market demand and environmental responsibilities.

KKR, headquartered in New York, offers alternative asset management, capital markets, and insurance solutions. The firm aims to generate attractive investment returns through a disciplined approach and supports growth in its portfolio companies and communities.

PAI Partners, a prominent private equity firm, has significant experience in the food and beverage sector and manages over €17 billion in buyout funds. BCI, one of Canada's largest institutional investors, manages C$199.6 billion in assets and invests across various asset classes, including private equity.

For more information, visit Refresco's website at www.refresco.com, KKR's website at www.kkr.com, PAI Partners' website at www.paipartners.com, and BCI's website at www.bci.ca.