Aware Super has led a secondary share sale in Mexican food chain Guzman y Gomez, now valued at $1.5 billion.
The transaction is supported by Point King Capital and by Athletic Ventures. This is the third consecutive investment in the Mexican food chain.
Aware Super manages more than $150 billion on behalf of its 1.1 million members. Aware Super Portfolio manager for direct equities, Tim Riordan, said the brand was disrupting the quick service restaurant market.
“What stood out for us was GYG’s focus on innovation and passion for speed and quality of food – all of which has enabled the agile leadership team to differentiate the business in Australia and Asia and set bold expansion plans.”
GWS Giant, Matt de Boer founded Athletic Ventures (AV), which represents a group of high-profile athletes. A further group of athletes will become GYG shareholders through AV on the same commercial terms as Aware.
TDM Growth Partners owns more than 40 per cent of the business and remains GYG’s largest shareholder. Tom Cowan, GYG board member and TDM co-founder praised management and employees for their performance.
Guzman y Gomez has delivered “exceptional” returns
“We’re thrilled by the incredible execution of the management team and GYG employees over the last four years. GYG continues to go from strength to strength and we look forward to continuing our partnership for many years to come.”
Steven Marks, founder, CEO and second largest shareholder of GYG, said the brand has delivered “exceptional returns” for its investors.
“We have invested in the best people and technology and have the most motivated and high performing teams in our industry. We’re well positioned to build and bring even more GYG’s to life here in Australia and globally,” he said.
Marks said the Athletic Ventures investment is a great endorsement.
“This type of brand advocacy says a lot to us because it’s a genuine and authentic endorsement for GYG’s food from the fittest and healthiest athletes on the planet.”
The champion sportspeople involved in AV’s first investment in GYG include Wallabies player Michael Hooper and Aussie netballer Maddy Swift.
