Launch of new Milan office marks significant business expansion for Columna

• The opening of the office now brings Columna’s office count to three, with other locations in the UK and Luxembourg

• Reflects the increasing investment opportunities in entrepreneur-led businesses

London, UK – 1 Nov 2024 – Columna Capital (“Columna”), the lower-mid market private equity firm, is pleased to announce the opening of its new Milan office in Italy, marking a prominent milestone in the company’s expansion.

The Milan office is Columna’s third location, joining other offices in London and Luxembourg. The firm has significant investments in Italy, namely Over, a fast-growing provider of senior living solutions, healthcare platform Bianalisi, a leader in the fragmented Italian market for clinical diagnostics, and MSA group, a tech enabled full-service software provider of claims management services to the insurance industry which has quadrupled in size under Columna, following its acquisition of Veta+ announced earlier this month.

“Italy continues to offer a rich pool of ambitious, entrepreneur-led companies, and our Milan office will allow us to further support the growth and development of these promising businesses,” said Rory Devlin, Managing Partner of Columna Capital. “This move is a testament to the success of our Italian portfolio companies and underscores our commitment to creating long-term value in this important market.”

“By launching our Milan office, we’re excited to take the next step in over a decade of history investing in Italy–establishing a strong, on-the-ground presence to support both Columna's existing portfolio companies and broader opportunities in the market,” said Andrea Frecchiami, Partner at Columna Capital. “With our dedicated team of Italian nationals, we’re in an ideal position to collaborate closely with current partners, engage with local investors, and pursue growth opportunities more effectively.”

About Columna Capital 

Columna Capital is an entrepreneurial lower mid-market private equity firm with an investment focus in Spain, France, Italy and Switzerland. Founded in 2009 and led by four partners, the Columna team consists of an engaged group of professionals that actively support dedicated management teams and entrepreneurs to drive organic growth and execute on consolidation opportunities. Typically, Columna invests in companies with up to €100 million in revenue and significant growth potential and has a sector focus in animal health, healthcare and insurance services, and agri-food.