Nestle has agreed to form a joint venture with investment firm Platinum Equity for its water and premium beverages business, a move expected to generate approximately €3 billion in proceeds.
The deal, which the company has been pursuing since 2024, marks a significant restructuring of the Swiss food giant’s portfolio as it seeks to streamline operations and focus capital on faster-growing segments.
The €3 billion infusion provides the company with substantial liquidity to fund share buybacks, reduce debt, or invest in new product development.
The transaction involves Nestle selling a majority stake in its water division to Platinum Equity, while retaining a minority interest.
This strategic divestment allows Nestle to unlock value from a mature asset class and redirect resources toward innovation and expansion in core food and beverage categories.
The €3 billion infusion provides the company with substantial liquidity to fund share buybacks, reduce debt, or invest in new product development.
This development comes as Nestle navigates a complex operational landscape, including an ongoing internal investigation into its commercial ties with a Russian media outlet designated as a propaganda channel under international sanctions.