Bialetti, the iconic Italian coffee pot brand known for its Moka Espresso, is set to be acquired by NUO Capital, an investment vehicle owned by one of Hong Kong’s wealthiest families.
The deal, which also includes the delisting of the company, was finalized on April 16. As part of the agreement, NUO Capital will acquire 78.6% of Bialetti’s shares for €53 million ($59 million) from the company’s current main investors. The transaction is expected to close by the end of June, pending regulatory approval.
Founded in 1919 by Afonso Bialetti, the brand became synonymous with the moka pot coffee preparation method. Bialetti’s Moka Espresso, first introduced in 1933, played a significant role in popularizing the method, and the original model is now displayed at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York.
Despite its historical success, recent years have been challenging for Bialetti. The company has faced setbacks from poor investments and increased competition from capsule coffee makers. In 2024, the brand reported a €1.1 million loss, ending the year with net financial debts of €81.9 million.
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