Case Study

PGIM finances Kitwave Wholesale Group’s take-private

Headquartered in North Shields, UK, Kitwave Wholesale Group is a wholesaler and distributor of ambient, chilled, and frozen products to independent retailers and food service customers nationwide.

Kitwave Wholesale Group

At a Glance

PGIM has a prior relationship with Kitwave dating back to 2016 when we participated in a minority buyout of the company.

In May 2026, PGIM partnered with One Equity Partners (“OEP” or “the Sponsor”) to participate in their take-private of Kitwave from the AIM in London. With a focus on scaling the Company through acquisitions, OEP sought a flexible financing structure and local lending partners who could support Kitwave with both capital and local market insight. Given our prior funding relationship with the company since 2016, PGIM’s familiarity with the management team and strategy positioned us as a natural partner for this next phase.

The take-private financing package comprised of a First Lien Term Loan and Delayed Draw Term Loan.

Kitwave and OEP appreciated our (i) relationship-based approach to lending and our previous relationship with Kitwave, (ii) ability to increase our hold size as the funding requirement for acquisitions increases, and (iii) experience in the UK food distribution sector.

We valued this opportunity to build on our decade-long relationship with Kitwave, and are excited to be part of the next phase in their growth story.

Relationship Since 2016
 
Transaction details:
  • Senior Secured Credit Facility
  • Term Loan
  • Delayed Draw Term Loan

“It’s great to have PGIM join the funding group for Kitwave, which aligns with our ambitions for the company. PGIMs familiarity with the business is a key benefit as a partner.”

Steven Lunau, Partner, One Equity Partners

<p>“It’s great to have PGIM join the funding group for Kitwave, which aligns with our ambitions for the company. PGIMs familiarity with the business is a key benefit as a partner.”</p>

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Jack Gilbert
Jack Gilbert

Senior Director, Europe & UK Direct Lending

+44 20 3837 3404