Fondations Capital takes majority stake in Courtepaille
Context
Fondations Capital has arranged the acquisition of a majority shareholding in the French restaurant chain Courtepaille, marking a change of ownership from the company's previous financial sponsors, a consortium led by ING Parcom. This transaction represents a secondary buyout, enabling the former shareholders to exit after a six-year holding period characterized by consistent growth. The deal is structured to support Courtepaille's next phase of development and expansion within the French market. The rationale for the acquisition is based on the target's strong brand recognition, leading market position in the grill-restaurant segment, and its proven track record of performance in a growing sector. The new ownership structure is designed to foster continued success by aligning the interests of the new financial sponsor with those of the company's leadership. As part of the transaction, the existing management team, along with a significant number of employees, are co-investing, ensuring leadership continuity and a vested interest in the company's future performance. This demonstrates the acquirer's confidence in the current operational strategy and leadership to capitalize on future market opportunities.
Courtepaille, which reported an EBITDA margin of [members only] in 2010, is valued in this transaction at an EV/EBITDA multiple of 5x–12x.
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Target
Courtepaille is a French restaurant chain with a history dating back to its founding in 1961. The company specializes in grilled meat and operates within the casual dining segment, primarily targeting families. Its brand identity is strongly associated with a traditional, rustic aesthetic, often featuring a distinctive circular building with a thatched roof, which has become a familiar sight for travelers along France's major roadways. The business model is a mix of company-owned and franchised restaurants. The menu is centered around various cuts of beef, sausages, and other grilled items, typically prepared over a wood fire in an open kitchen, which is a signature element of the customer experience. This concept is designed to offer a consistent and accessible dining option. Over the decades, Courtepaille established itself as a well-known name in the French hospitality landscape, synonymous with roadside dining and a consistent, unpretentious food offering.
Ent. Value
€100–350M
Equity Value
[members only]
Multiples
EV / Revenue
below 1.5x
EV / EBITDA
5x–12x
EV / EBIT
[members only]
Historical Financials (EUR)
Other operations with Courtepaille
| Date | Acquirer | Target | Country | Sector |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09/2020 | BUFFALO GRILL | COURTEPAILLE | FRANCE | Restaurants / Chains |
| 09/2015 | ICG | COURTEPAILLE | FRANCE | Restaurants / Chains |
| 06/2013 | CREDIT MUTUEL EQUITY | COURTEPAILLE | FRANCE | Restaurants / Chains |
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REFERENCES
Valuation range: EV €100–350M
Revenue range: €250–500M
EBITDA range: €10–30M
EV/Revenue range: below 1.5x
EV/EBITDA range: 5x - 12x
Note: This page provides detailed data on a private equity M&A transaction. Detailed and exact financial metrics for the acquisition of Courtepaille by Fondations Capital are reserved for mynth community members. Register for free to unlock full data.
Authors: This transaction was contributed by a verified mynth contributor and cross-checked against available transaction documents and official company communications.
Target: courtepaille
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