Axum Capital Partners Unveils $300 Million Fund Focused on Health and Wellness Brands

Axum Capital Partners Launches $300 Million Fund

In an exciting development for the food and beverage sector, Axum Capital Partners has announced the launch of a new fund aimed at raising $300 million in committed capital. This fund represents a shift towards investments that emphasize health and wellness, showcasing Axum's commitment to supporting innovative food and beverage brands that align with these values.

Founded in Charlotte, North Carolina, by seasoned professionals Denis Ackah-Yensu, Muhsin Muhammad II, and Raymond Groth, Axum Capital has been steadily developing a reputation for resilience and expertise within the private equity landscape. The firm has successfully navigated the challenging market conditions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, continuing to deliver value to its investors, partners, and portfolio companies.

With a growing consumer appetite for healthier food and beverage options, Axum is intensifying its focus on brands that prioritize health and wellness as foundational principles. The firm is particularly interested in family-owned and founder-led businesses that demonstrate robust profitability, significant growth potential, and purpose-driven leadership. Axum's investments will emphasize sectors related to ingredients, packaged goods, and food service, with a specific preference for companies based in the Southeastern United States.

Muhsin Muhammad II, Managing Partner at Axum, stated, "Our food choices define us, and today's consumers are increasingly opting for healthier, better-for-you options. This is where Axum excels. We not only embody this lifestyle but have also been investing in this area for years, giving us a distinct edge in building the next generation of leading brands."

One of the notable investments by Axum includes Le Botaniste, a fully organic, plant-driven restaurant concept. This investment underscores the firm's refined strategy and commitment to scaling health-focused initiatives within the industry.

Enhanced Leadership Team

To effectively implement its strategy, Axum has expanded its leadership team with a blend of experienced investors, transaction experts, and operators. This enhanced team is designed to add substantive value through their extensive networks and industry influence.

Joining the firm are Lance Johnson and Derrick Brown as General Partners. Johnson comes with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions, and corporate finance, previously serving as managing director at Wells Fargo Securities. Brown, a former professional basketball player, has strong expertise in building strategic partnerships essential for deal sourcing.

Ezra Field will serve as an advisor, having previously spent over a decade at Roark Capital, a significant player in food and beverage private equity. Other key appointments include Josh Burris as Operating Partner, with extensive experience in brand building, and Lynn Girts as Chief Financial Officer, bringing over 20 years of fund management experience.

James Floyd has also joined as Operating Partner, working closely with Axum's portfolio companies to drive strategic growth. Additionally, Axum has established a comprehensive advisory board and a network of industry experts to support the firm’s investment activities.

Muhammad emphasized the importance of relationships in driving success, stating, "This team formed organically through trusted relationships built over many years. We are united by shared values in teamwork, excellence, accountability, and resilience, and we are passionate about helping entrepreneurs scale mission-driven enterprises."

Community Engagement and Partnerships

With industry leaders Muhammad (from NFL) and Brown (from NBA/EuroLeague) on board, Axum recognizes the value of engaging the professional athlete community and cultural influencers. This unique engagement adds another layer of value to their investment strategy and portfolio companies.

Furthermore, Axum has partnered with Acuity Partners, a prominent strategic advisory firm that has facilitated over $70 billion in fund commitments for private equity clients. This collaboration will aid Axum in adopting and implementing best practices as they continue to evolve their investment model and engage more deeply with the athlete community.

Muhammad concluded, "We are incredibly excited about the future and believe our unique platform will open doors to exclusive investment opportunities. Our mission is straightforward: partner with visionary entrepreneurs to grow exceptional brands and deliver meaningful value for all stakeholders."

For more details on Axum Capital Partners and their new fund, please visit Axum Capital Partners.