The fund, which aims to generate over EUR1 billion from this sale, is not at its first attempt to exit this business, but so far talks have not ended with a deal.
Mid Europa Partners entered Profi shareholding structure in 2016, when it paid over EUR530 million for the retailer that had around 500 supermarkets and modern proximity stores at that time. The seller was another fund, Enterprise Investors. At that time, it was the largest sum paid by a financial investor for a company of Romania.
Over the past seven years (2016-2022), Profi business has tripled and so has its store network.
Who is interested in buying Profi?
Several strategic players are looking at the network, both chains already present in Romania, such as Ahold Delhaize, Auchan and Carrefour, and others, according to ZF sources. Polish retailers such as Biedronka, Dino or Zabka also have Romania in their plans.
Beside Profi, Mid Europa Partners also owns private healthcare network Regina Maria and courier company Cargus.
(English version by Catalina Apostoiu)