The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has committed a €50 million equity investment in Podravka Agri, a newly formed subsidiary of Croatia’s renowned Podravka Group. This landmark investment will underpin Podravka Agri’s strategic acquisition of Fortenova Group’s agricultural division—a portfolio that includes well-established entities such as Belje plus, PIK-Vinkovci plus, Vupik plus, Energija Gradec, Belje Agro-Vet plus, and Felix plus. While these companies will continue operating independently, Podravka Agri will drive their collective growth and competitiveness.

A Comprehensive Restructuring and Value Creation Plan

The EBRD’s investment is designed to support the comprehensive restructuring of Fortenova Group’s agricultural assets. Through a robust value creation plan, Podravka Agri aims to implement sustainable farming practices and enhance corporate governance. This strategic overhaul is expected to bolster decision-making capacities, positioning the acquired companies for long-term success in the competitive Croatian agricultural landscape.

Charlotte Ruhe, Managing Director for Central and South Eastern Europe at the EBRD, commented, “We are pleased to announce our participation in one of the largest acquisitions in the region in recent years. It is an honour to support Podravka, our longstanding client, in this significant endeavour. This acquisition represents an exciting opportunity, and together with Podravka, we are committed to unlocking its full potential by leveraging the EBRD’s extensive track record in the food and agribusiness sectors across south-eastern Europe.”

Strengthening Croatia’s Agricultural Leadership

Martina Dalić, President of the Management Board of Podravka, added, “Signing this agreement with the EBRD marks an important milestone towards finalising the acquisition of Fortenova Group’s agricultural segment. Our partnership will facilitate the transfer of global best practices in managing agricultural enterprises and reinforce corporate governance in Podravka Agri. We are confident that this collaboration will accelerate the modernization and development of the acquired companies, solidifying their position as leaders in Croatian agriculture. Our employees remain at the heart of our strategy, as they are the cornerstone of Podravka Group’s success.”

Podravka Group, a key player in Croatia’s multinational landscape, operates across nutrition and pharmaceuticals with a diverse portfolio exceeding 1,800 products. Over the past two decades, the EBRD has supported Podravka Group through various financing solutions, including equity investments, energy-efficiency loans, and large syndicated loans.

To date, the EBRD has invested more than €4.8 billion in 254 projects throughout Croatia, focusing on accelerating reforms, leveraging European Union accession benefits, and transforming public-sector enterprises. This new investment in Podravka Agri further underscores the EBRD’s commitment to driving sustainable economic development in the region