ROCA divests 20% stake in Artesana after five-year growth journey

ROMANIA – ROCA investments, a private equity firm, has announced the sale of its entire 20% stake in Artesana dairy to Booster Capital five years after the initial investment. 

The transaction is subject to approval by the relevant regulatory authorities and will become effective upon obtaining all necessary validations.

The investment made by ROCA Investments in 2020 contributed to the company’s rapid transformation and sustainable scaling, while also strengthening the Artesana brand in the premium segment of Romania’s artisanal dairy market.

The dairy producer reported a 4-fold increase in production capacity over the five years, and it tripled its turnover over the period to EUR 11 million in 2024, when it also marked the highest profitability (3% net profit margin). Artesana expects to further boost its turnover to EUR 15 million in 2025.

One of the objectives of the strategic partnership between Roca and Artesana was the construction and equipment of a new dairy factory to expand production capacity. Construction began in April 2021, and the factory was inaugurated two years later, following an investment of EUR 6 million.

Rudi Vizental, CEO and co-founder of ROCA Investments, said, “Artesana is not just a company with excellent products. It is an authentic Romanian entrepreneurial story, born in challenging times and nurtured with passion, discipline, and courage.

“When we invested in 2020, Artesana was a beautiful dream with potential. Five years later, it is a mature, solid company, ready to enter a new chapter in its development. We’re proud that ROCA was part of this journey. Artesana will always hold a special place in our history—and I’m confident that ROCA will remain part of its DNA. We wish the new investors success in continuing this story in a way that honors its legacy.”

Artesana and Booster Capital partnership

Daniel Donici, co-founder of Artesana, explained that the partnership with Booster Capital was chosen after a thoughtful period marked by challenges, but also an optimistic outlook for the future.

The alignment of long-term strategic goals, Booster Capital’s proven expertise in both production and retail, and the shared values between the two teams were key factors that influenced the decision to move forward with the collaboration.

The joint plans include strengthening Artesana’s position in the local market, building a solid management team, investing in a new artisanal cheese production line—estimated at over €10 million—and expanding internationally.

Alongside expected organic growth, Artesana’s shareholders remain open to strategic options involving other niche players in the Romanian dairy market, relying on Booster Capital’s strong experience in acquiring and integrating complementary businesses.

“For us, Artesana is more than just a business. It’s our dream, one we nurture with responsibility and passion. This partnership with Booster Capital will allow us to grow even faster, while maintaining the values and high standards that define us. The partnership with ROCA Investments has reached maturity and has been a real support for Artesana,” said Alina Donici, Co-founder of Artesana.

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