Italian Realfoods Limited sold to Certified Origins Italia

Following the sale of Italian Realfoods Limited, Polestar said it saw strong interest from trade and private equity buyers across the UK, Europe and North America, receiving offers from buyers in the US, France, and Italy.

Certified Origins Italia, which ultimately won the purchase, is a global leader of premium private label olive oils, tomato sauces and specialty foods sourced from across the Mediterranean.

Based in London, Italian Realfoods Limited was established in 1995 by Peri Eagleton and David Harrison and is home to brands such as Seggiano and Lunaio. Following its expansion in 2015 into the States, it quickly secured a deal with US supermarket Wholefoods and ever since, its international reputation has continued to flourish.  

Commenting on the sale of their business, Eagleton and Harrison said that Polestar had been essential to the successful outcome.  

“We could not be more impressed with the quality of service received, feeling nothing but gratitude to Charlie & his team,” ​they added.

Gerard Jara, CEO of Certified Origins Italia, also expressed his appreciation: “We are grateful to the team at Polestar, who contributed to building a strong relationship between Seggiano and Certified. We look forward to working with, and continuing to grow, the Seggiano brand.”​ 

While Italian Realfoods Limited was advised by Polestar and law firm Michelmores, Certified Origins Italia was advised by legal companies, Becker & Poliakoff and Buckles Solicitors, alongside financial advisors HMT. 

Elsewhere, Premier Foods has acquired protein breakfast brand FUEL10K in a £34m deal.​​