This new partnership will reinforce Hansens as Denmark’s leading organic ice cream brand, backed by Den Sociale Kapitalfond’s expertise in sustainable growth and social impact. Together, the parties will develop the company, enhance Hansens’ social impact, and create long-term value.
“We spent a long time finding the right partner to help take Hansens Is to the next level. Den Sociale Kapitalfond is the perfect match; they share our values around social responsibility and want to preserve our DNA and approach. With their experience and network, we can professionalize and scale our business and ESG efforts, while staying focused on providing great ice experiences to even more people,” says co-owner Anders Eibye Hansen, who owns Hansens Is together with his brother Rasmus Eibye.
Two bottom lines to secure Hansens’ future
Den Sociale Kapitalfond has acquired a 60% stake in the company via its Invest II fund and has long seen potential in the Danish ice cream producer.
“We have entered this partnership wholeheartedly because we see significant promise in Hansens – in the people, the heritage, and the products. Hansens has always taken responsibility, and now it will grow on two fronts: financially and socially. That’s an excellent match with our experience and capabilities,” says Managing Partner Lars Jannick Johansen.
In collaboration with Hansens, a strategy has been laid out comprising four key areas. On the sales side, Hansens Is will expand its presence in the Danish market, while also taking initial steps toward exports to neighboring countries. In terms of social priorities, the company will bolster existing ESG activities and, over time, bring more young people and adults from the margins of the labor market into its workforce.
Employee co-ownership and new board
The change in ownership also means that employees will be offered an opportunity to acquire shares in Hansens, under a model in which both Den Sociale Kapitalfond and Anders and Rasmus Eibye Hansen transfer part of their stake. Meanwhile, a new board will be appointed, led by Annemette V. Thomsen (previously with Toms) as board chair, and including Kim Rahbek Hansen, founder and former CEO of Sticks & Sushi.
Co-owner Anders Eibye Hansen looks forward to the new day-to-day reality at the dairy and has high hopes for the new ownership constellation and board.
“Hansens has reached a size that requires more than we alone can provide. Rasmus and I want to keep doing what we’re really good at—we love making great ice cream. But it’s even more meaningful if we can also make a difference in the world. We believe that by taking this step, we can build an even more robust and purposeful business—and at the same time offer our employees a chance for co-ownership on this journey,” says Anders Eibye Hansen.
Hansens Is is now owned 40% by brothers Anders and Rasmus Eibye Hansen and 60% by Den Sociale Kapitalfond’s Invest II. In addition, employees will be offered co-ownership going forward.
Clearwater and Accura advised Hansens Is, while Schjødt and EY advised Den Sociale Kapitalfond in relation to the transaction. The parties have agreed not to disclose the transaction price.
