Alterra and Phatisa announce a strategic investment in Java House Africa, a premier casual dining and
coffee-led restaurant brand in East Africa.
The investment enables Java House to continue leveraging its strong brand, operational excellence,
and scalable business model to drive regional growth.
Alterra and Phatisa’s partnership demonstrates their shared commitment to responsible investing,
including job creation, gender equality, and sustainable sourcing.
7 March 2025
Leading African private equity firms Alterra and Phatisa have signed agreements to acquire 100% of Java House Africa (“Java House” or the “Company”) from emerging-market investor Actis, for an undisclosed sum. The investment marks a significant milestone in Java House’s growth journey, reinforcing its position as a category leader on the continent.
Founded in 1999, Java House has grown into a household name, offering high-quality coffee and a diverse menu to customers across Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. The Company operates a network of almost 100 outlets – serving millions of customers annually – through brands including Java House, Java Express, 360 Degrees Pizza, Planet Yoghurt, and Kukito. The Company also operates a vertically integrated commercial kitchen, coffee roastery, foodservice and distribution platform, serving over 5.5 million meals per annum and employing over 2,300 people.
The brand is recognised for pioneering East Africa’s café culture and continues to innovate with locally inspired menu options, sourcing over 90% of its products locally while implementing farm-to-fork traceability. With a strong reputation for operational excellence, Java House remains committed to enhancing the customer experience and expanding its presence in the region.
A leading brand in a high-growth market
This strategic investment is underpinned by East Africa’s favourable longer-term macroeconomic trends, such as rapid urbanisation, growing disposable incomes, and shifting consumer preferences towards convenience dining. Java House’s strong market position, proven ability to scale, and focus on operational efficiency present a compelling growth opportunity.
Eric Kump, Partner at Alterra, commented:
“Java House is a premier brand in East Africa’s casual dining sector. Our investment is focused on unlocking new growth opportunities, expanding market reach, and reinforcing Java House as a leading brand in the region.”
Asif Noorani, Principal at Phatisa, added:
“With a well-established presence and a robust operating model, Java House is well-placed to capitalise on
increasing demand for high-quality, convenient dining options. Our partnership will enable Java House to enhance its reach and impact across East Africa.”
David Cooke, Partner at Actis, remarked:
“Having navigated the Covid-19 pandemic, Java House’s all-women management team has delivered remarkable sales growth, and they have sustainably extended the brand’s footprint to almost 100 outlets across East Africa. We wish them and the new owners all the best in the next phase of Java House’s development.”
Priscilla Gathungu, CEO of Java House, concluded:
“At Java House, we believe that business growth and social responsibility go hand in hand. This investment will enable us to expand our footprint while continuing to invest in sustainable sourcing and job creation. Our commitment to serving our communities remains steadfast as we look to the future.”
The transaction has received all regulatory approvals. Lead advisors to Phatisa and Alterra included White & Case and ENS Africa (legal), Anjarwalla & Khanna (competition), EY (financial and tax) and ERM (ESG). Lead advisors to Actis and Java House were Flamingo Capital Partners (transaction) and Bowmans (legal and competition).
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