Posted Friday 2nd October 2026
Joelson has advised Crosta Mollica founder James Orr on the merger of the business with European Pizza Group, creating one of Europe’s largest pizza businesses with combined retail sales of approximately €1 billion.
Crosta & Mollica, founded in 2009, can be found in leading supermarkets across the UK and Europe and have achieved exceptional growth through their reimagining of contemporary Italian classics using premium ingredients and traditional techniques “Made in Italy”.
The merger brings together Crosta Mollica, one of Europe’s fastest-growing food brands, and European Pizza Group, producer of the well-known Wagner and Buitoni pizza brands. The combined business is positioned to capitalise on growing consumer demand for premium, restaurant-quality pizza experiences at home.
Since David Milner and Tom Sirett’s investment alongside Perwyn in January 2024, Crosta Mollica has significantly expanded its market presence, with sales increasing from approximately €90 million to €270 million. Following completion of the transaction, David Milner will become Group CEO of the combined business, while Tom Sirett will continue as CEO of Crosta Mollica and Matthias Casanova will remain CEO of European Pizza Group.
Led by Phil Hails-Smith, Joelson advised James Orr in connection with both the sale of his shareholding and his reinvestment alongside the existing management team, PAI Partners and Nestlé.
James Orr, Founder of Crosta Mollica, said:
“This merger marks an exciting new chapter for Crosta Mollica. The business has achieved exceptional growth in recent years and is now combining forces with a highly complementary business to create one of Europe’s leading pizza platforms. Thanks to the Joelson team who were fantastic throughout.”
Phil Hails-Smith, Partner at Joelson, commented:
“Having supported James on a previous milestone in the company’s journey, it was a pleasure to advise him on this next one. The merger brings together two highly complementary businesses at a time when consumer demand for premium, restaurant-quality food at home continues to grow. We wish James and the wider team every success in this exciting next chapter.”
This article is for reference purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Specific legal advice about your specific circumstances should always be sought separately before taking or deciding not to take any action.
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