Growth Strategies and Expansion Plans
On May 4, 2026, Pacific Avenue Capital Partners announced its entry into exclusive negotiations to acquire ESE World. This acquisition involves Amcor’s European waste container business, which is renowned for its innovation in waste management solutions.
Generating approximately €300 million in revenues, ESE World stands as a leading European manufacturer of both plastic and steel waste containers. The company efficiently serves a global customer base from its manufacturing facilities located in Neuruppin and Olpe, Germany, and Crissey, France.
Founder and Managing Partner of Pacific Avenue, Chris Sznewajs, emphasised, “This transaction marks an exciting next phase of growth for ESE. The business is a strong fit within our portfolio of industry-leading companies.”
Operational and Strategic Growth Initiatives
Focusing on several growth initiatives, Pacific Avenue plans to enhance operational improvements and undertake strategic add-on acquisitions. The firm aims to expand ESE’s geographic reach while collaborating closely with its existing management team to ensure seamless integration and growth.
Expressing enthusiasm for this partnership, Xavier Lambert, Managing Director and Head of Europe at Pacific Avenue, noted the significant opportunities for ESE’s future development and long-term value creation. He emphasised the firm’s commitment to supporting ESE’s next phase of growth.
Once the works council consultation process is complete, the acquisition is expected to advance with the signing of a sale and purchase agreement. This transaction is anticipated to close in the second quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.
Representing a milestone for Pacific Avenue, this transaction marks the firm’s third European transaction and the first European investment from its Fund II. The acquisition underscores Pacific Avenue’s ability to partner with corporate sellers globally to execute complex carve-outs successfully.
Advised by Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, Accuracy, and PwC during the negotiation process, Pacific Avenue exemplified strategic planning. Meanwhile, Amcor received counsel from Greenhill and Latham & Watkins. These collaborations underscore the intricate legal and financial planning involved in significant cross-border transactions.
ESE World, under Pacific Avenue’s stewardship, will strive to meet customer needs by executing growth initiatives tied to operational improvement, geographic expansion, and strategic acquisitions. This approach aims to accelerate the company’s next growth phase.
