ECF Group acquires Spain’s Grupo Pilsa

ECF Group is an international distribution company specialized in the development of commercial brands and private labels for professionals in the hospitality sector, health and social care, and catering and food supplies.

The transformational acquisition, the value of which remains confidential, consolidates ECF Group's European presence in one of the continent's most dynamic markets, strengthens its expertise in large kitchens and opens up export prospects in Central America and the Middle East. 

ECF Group is now the only international foodservice operator present in three regions: France, Europe and the Middle East, and Australia and the Pacific.

Granada-based Pilsa also has a presence in Mexico and the Dominican Republic.

With sales of 70 million euros in recent years, Pilsa has become a key player in the market, both as a foodservice equipment distributor and as the undisputed leader in the design and installation of professional kitchens, thanks in particular to its long experience in large-scale catering projects for hotels and events.

With this operation, ECF Group continues its external growth. With 15 acquisitions in the last three years, since the end of the Covd-19 crisis, the company has been able to penetrate new markets (Italy, New Zealand, Germany, Austria) and strengthen its leading position in its current geographies (France, Australia, Middle East).

The acquisition of Pilsa reinforces this strategy and makes the group a leader in Spain and the Caribbean. The group is now present in 16 countries, with a complete range of services.

Pilsa's current teams will continue to lead the development strategy after the transaction, under the joint leadership of Javier López Bolívar (historical leader and member of the founder's family) and José Cassinello (CEO). Pilsa will become part of the ECF EMEAI Business Unit (Europe, Middle East, Africa, India), led from 2023 by Bertrand Ferraton. The integration of Pilsa will enable the rapid deployment of commercial synergies, thanks in particular to the Group's wide range of own brands and partnerships with major international brands, as part of an ongoing effort to improve its offering.

ECF Group was advised by Mexican law firm Ritch Mueller, with a team led by partners Jean Paul Farah Chajín and Eric Silberstein Lerner, with Gerardo Barbará González  and Juan Ignacio Cerdá Rebora.

Law firm Pérez Llorca acted as counsel in Spain to EFC, and Pinsent Masons acted as counsel to the sellers.