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The Tofoo Co, the UK’s leading tofu brand backed by private equity firm Comitis Capital, has executed a significant cross-border acquisition by purchasing Topas, a German manufacturer specialising in seitan products.

The deal marks a major strategic diversification for the UK business, adding wheat-based protein (seitan) to a portfolio previously centred on soy-based tofu and tempeh. It also provides an immediate infrastructure for The Tofoo Co to launch its core range into the German market later this year.

Integrating the 'Wheaty' Brand

Based near Stuttgart, Topas is best known for its Wheaty brand, which has established a strong organic presence across Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. The company employs over 100 staff and reported a turnover of €14m ($16.6m) in its most recent financial year.

David Knibbs, CEO of The Tofoo Co, outlined a reciprocal growth strategy:

• In Germany: Accelerate the growth of the Wheaty brand and use Topas’s infrastructure to introduce The Tofoo Co’s product line.

• In the UK: Unlock new commercial opportunities by introducing Wheaty’s seitan range to UK retailers, diversifying the plant-based fixture beyond soy options.

"Wheaty has an exceptional heritage and reputation within organic plant-based products," Knibbs said. "This partnership gives us strong roots in Germany as we bring The Tofoo Co to the market."

Management Restructuring and Continuity

Founded in 1993 by Klaus Gaiser and Sanni Ikola-Gaiser, Topas is considered a pioneer in the European organic sector. Under the new ownership structure, organic industry executive Sebastian von Eltz will assume the role of Managing Director.

To ensure continuity in product quality, the current Managing Directors will remain with the business:

• Klaus Gaiser will focus on Product Development.

• Miikka Gaiser will lead Production and Organisational matters.

Klaus Gaiser commented: "The Tofoo Co and its shareholders align with our values, our commitment to organic quality, and our belief in doing things the right way. They are good stewards of the business."

Strategic Backing

Comitis Capital, which invested in The Tofoo Co two years ago, views the acquisition as a "highly strategic" bolt-on.

Felix Jauch, Principal at Comitis Capital, stated: "Topas brings deep expertise in organic seitan-based products, and a strong manufacturing and brand presence in Germany, enhancing The Tofoo Co’s existing platform and providing a strong local foundation at the heart of Europe."