MBO of Norway’s leading service and technology provider for food production

February 2024 — Tine and Nortura have sold Skala Gruppen AS to the management team.

Skala Gruppen, with its headquarters in Oslo, is Norway’s largest and most diverse professional environment within production technology and operational support to the food industry. With six business areas covering everything, from process technology to advanced robotization, the company has proven itself as a key player in the modernization and efficiency improvement of Norwegian food production. Its commitment to sustainability and innovation has positioned Skala Gruppen as a central actor in the industry, with an annual turnover of about US$38 million and 125 employees. Within three to five years, the group plans to reach a turnover of US$48 million, and to deliver an EBITDA result of US$2.8 million.

MBO from the management of Skala Gruppen.

Tine, with over 160 years of heritage, is Norway’s largest dairy producer and is known for its wide range of over 1,300 dairy products. Operating from 31 dairies across the nation, Tine is deeply involved in the dairy value chain, from production to export.

Nortura, owned by 16,000 Norwegian farmers, is a large industry group with 30 production units across the country. Recognized through its well-known brands Gilde and Prior, Nortura plays a significant role in the Norwegian grocery market.

Our role in the transaction

Oaklins’ team in Norway, while engaged by Tine and Nortura, acted as an impartial intermediary, focusing on securing a fair and balanced MBO agreement beneficial to all parties.