Hayfin and Strategic Value Partners Provide Major Financing for Uvesco Acquisition

Strategic Financing for Uvesco's Growth

On December 24, 2025, an agreement was announced between Hayfin and Strategic Value Partners (SVP) to deliver a significant financial boost of €465 million in senior secured term loans for the acquisition of Uvesco, a prominent regional food retail group in Spain. This strategic move is aimed at supporting the management-led acquisition from PAI Partners, marking an important milestone in Uvesco's journey.

Uvesco: A Leading Regional Food Retailer

Founded in 1993 through the merger of two family-owned businesses, Uvesco operates over 300 supermarkets under the brand names BM and Super Amara. With a strong presence across regions like the Basque Country, Cantabria, Navarra, La Rioja, and Madrid, the company is renowned for its commitment to high-quality fresh products, local sourcing, and exceptional customer service. The acquisition positions Uvesco for its next growth phase under the guidance of its management, along with substantial backing from key institutional investors in Spain.

CEO Ángel Jareño expressed his enthusiasm, highlighting the collective effort of the Uvesco team over many years in cultivating a robust, locally-rooted business with a distinct identity and a dedication to the communities it serves. He emphasized that this partnership will enable Uvesco to accelerate growth while maintaining the core values that define the brand.

Investor Confidence and Future Growth

Ahmed Khan, Managing Director of European Structured Capital at SVP, indicated that this transaction not only supports Uvesco's operational excellence but also showcases SVP's capability to provide innovative financial solutions tailored for management transitions. This combination of experienced management and financial acumen positions Uvesco effectively for future expansion.

Hayfin, a leading alternative asset management firm with approximately €35 billion in assets under management, has been a vital supporter of Uvesco over the past three years. Their ongoing investment reflects a commitment to enhancing the growth trajectory of strong, locally-rooted businesses in Spain. Diego Jimenez-Blanco, Managing Director at Hayfin, conveyed their excitement about the partnership and the shared vision for Uvesco's future.

Looking Ahead

As Uvesco embarks on this new chapter of growth, the firm continues to establish itself as a reference point for employment creation and community value sustainability. With a workforce exceeding 7,000 employees, Uvesco underlines its role in driving economic development across the regions it operates, including Madrid, Ávila, Guadalajara, and beyond.

The collaboration between Hayfin and SVP further solidifies their commitment to supporting businesses with a strong operational foundation and growth aspirations. As the Uvesco management team gears up for the transition, the investment not only signifies financing but a partnership aimed at fostering long-term success and community impact.

In conclusion, the €465 million financing represents a pivotal moment for Uvesco and showcases the potential of management-led acquisitions in the retail sector. The strategic involvement of Hayfin and SVP illustrates the confidence investors have in Uvesco’s capabilities and the promising road ahead under new ownership.

About Hayfin

Hayfin Capital Management is renowned for delivering attractive investment returns through its diverse asset management strategies, focusing on private debt, liquid credit, and private equity. With global offices and a team of experienced professionals, Hayfin stands at the forefront of alternative investments.

About Strategic Value Partners

SVP specializes in identifying unique investment opportunities across private equity, opportunistic credit, and special situations. With a robust framework for managing approximately $22 billion in assets, SVP consistently seeks to unlock value across its investment portfolio.