Transaction

Brouwerij Huyghe, a leading family business with four generations of tradition and known for its iconic beer brand Delirium, acquired Mechelen’s historic family brewery and distillery Het Anker. In the absence of family succession, main shareholder Charles Leclef, scion of the fifth generation, and minority shareholder BNP Paribas Fortis Private Equity set out to find a suitable acquirer. This strategic acquisition unites two breweries with a rich history and complementary strengths, creating new growth opportunities in both Belgian and international markets.

 

VDP acted as exclusive advisor to BNP Paribas Fortis Private Equity and Charles Leclef.

 

 

Het Anker

Founded in the 15th century, Het Anker is one of Belgium’s oldest breweries and has built a strong position in the Belgian beer market, deeply rooted in the traditions of the medieval city of Mechelen. Its range includes 17 beers, including the globally renowned Gouden Carolus, as well as La Cambre and Maneblusser. In addition, the brewery produces refined whiskies that are leading within the Belgian whisky segment and are exported to more than 30 countries. Het Anker is strongly committed to public engagement with its own restaurants, a hotel, and an extensive range of brewery tours and events, allowing visitors to discover the brewery’s rich history and exceptional quality.

 

For more information: www.hetanker.be

 

 

Brouwerij Huyghe

Brouwerij Huyghe’s multi-faceted offering focuses on premium beers and includes 14 brands and 41 beer styles, with Delirium and Averbode being the most successful exponents. In 2023, the brewery achieved a turnover of more than €45 million, of which more than 80% came from exports to more than 100 countries. In addition to commercial growth, Brouwerij Huyghe aims to become Belgium’s most sustainable brewery. With an ambitious goal of being completely carbon neutral by 2035, the brewery confirms its long-term vision of sustainability.

 

For more information: www.brouwerijhuyghe.be

 

 

BNP Paribas Fortis Private Equity

BNP Paribas Fortis Private Equity, the investing arm of the eponymous bank, has been active in the private equity market since 1981 and today has some 30 companies in its portfolio, including Konings, Studio 100, Hannecard and Balak.

 

BNP Paribas Fortis Private Equity joined Het Anker as a minority shareholder in 2016, with the aim of supporting the brewery’s expansion plans and laying a solid foundation for sustainable growth. In the following years, Het Anker has significantly increased its market share, both nationally and internationally, and expanded its portfolio to include quality Belgian whiskies, non-alcoholic aperitifs and niche beers.