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Danish investment firm Den Sociale Kapitalfond has acquired a 60% stake in the family-owned ice cream producer Hansens Is.
After the transaction, Anders Eibye Hansen and his brother Rasmus Eibye will retain a 40% stake in Hansens.
A strategy has been developed focusing on four key areas. Hansens will expand its presence in the Danish market and begin exporting to neighbouring countries. The company will also strengthen its ESG initiatives and gradually hire more young people and adults on the edge of the labour market.
As part of the ownership change, employees will be given the opportunity to acquire a stake in Hansens, with Den Sociale Kapitalfond and the brothers relinquishing part of their shares. A new board will also be appointed, with Annemette V. Thomsen, former Toms executive, taking the chair, and Kim Rahbek Hansen, founder and former CEO of Sticks & Sushi, joining as a board member.
Anders said: “We have spent a long time finding the right partner to help us take Hansens to the next level. Den Sociale Kapitalfond is the perfect match, as they share our values of social responsibility and at the same time want to preserve our DNA and approach. With their experience and network, we can professionalise and scale our business and ESG work, while maintaining our focus on giving more people great ice cream experiences."
He added: “Hansens has reached a size that requires more than what we can deliver ourselves. Rasmus and I want to continue doing what we are really good at. We love making good ice cream, but it is even more meaningful if we can also make a difference in the world. We believe that by taking this step we can create an even more robust and meaningful business – and at the same time give our employees the opportunity for co-ownership in the journey."
Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.