EQT Expansion Capital II sells stake in Sausalitos to Ergon Capital

EQT Expansion Capital II Limited has entered into an agreement to sell Sausalitos Holding GmbH, a leading casual dining chain in Germany, to Ergon Capital Partners III. The transaction is subject to approval from German competition authorities and is expected to be completed in July 2014.

During its investment period, EQT Expansion Capital II supported Sausalitos' expansion by adding nine new locations. EQT stated that the company has successfully strengthened its management team and built a robust operational platform, positioning Sausalitos for its next phase of growth. Sausalitos is recognized as a significant player in the German casual dining market.

The chain currently operates 27 restaurants across Germany, serving a California-Mexican cuisine. Over the past three years, Sausalitos has achieved a 25 percent increase in like-for-like sales, driven by marketing initiatives. The company has reported an average annual growth rate of 10 percent over the last five years.

The existing management team, including COO Gunilla Hirschberger, will continue with Sausalitos post-acquisition. They aim to further increase the number of restaurants in Germany and expand into international markets, with Ergon Capital's support.