Hero Brands has secured strategic investment from True Capital Partners for German Doner Kebab

May 2025 — Hero Brands, the owner of German Doner Kebab (GDK), has received a strategic investment from True Capital Partners, a leading investment and innovation firm focused on the consumer sector.

Since its UK launch in 2015, GDK has expanded rapidly, reaching over 145 locations nationwide and more than 170 globally. The company aims to redefine the kebab experience while cultivating an exciting, Gen Z–focused brand rooted in music, sport and popular culture. GDK has developed an extensive menu of fresh, made-to-order products featuring premium lean meats, unique toasted waffle bread and handmade signature sauces, with standout offerings such as the Boss Box and the OG Kebab.

True is a consumer-specialist investment and innovation advisory firm managing approximately US$1 billion in assets. It invests across the consumer, retail, leisure and technology sectors. True’s venture capital fund focuses on Pre-Seed to Series A rounds, investing up to US$2.7 million (£2 million) in companies such as Jitty, JENA, Boy Smells, By Rotation and SeeChange. Its private equity fund primarily targets growth equity and buyouts, with portfolio companies including Ribble Cycles, Zwift, The Cotswold Company, Hush and Apparel Brands.

Hero Brands is responding to emerging consumer trends by building the fast-casual brands of the future. Leveraging a network of experienced multi-unit franchise operators, the company can move at pace and rapidly launch brands to a global consumer audience. Its leadership team and partners bring expertise across brand development, supply chain, operations and marketing, along with the financial strength required to create true disruption.

Our role in the transaction

Oaklins Cavendish, one of Oaklins’ member firms in the UK, advised Hero Brands on this strategic investment from True.