The Hennig-Olsen family, through their holding company, together with Increment Capital, have acquired a majority stake in Paradis Gelateria, a fast-growing premium chain in artisan gelato with a strong position in the Norwegian market. The company combines traditional Italian craftsmanship with high-quality ingredients and an efficient, scalable operating model with centralised production. Paradis has established a proven concept with high customer satisfaction and a strong presence in prime locations in Oslo, and is well positioned for continued expansion across the Nordics.
Paradis was founded in 2012 with the ambition of bringing Italian artisan gelato to the Norwegian market. Based in Oslo, the company has built a strong brand, with a focus on quality, authenticity and prime locations. Over the years, the company has continuously developed its concept and built a strong operational platform. A centralised production model has enabled efficient operations and a consistent product experience across all units, while refining the offering and positioning itself as a premium gelato destination.
“We started Paradis because we felt gelato deserved a place in Norway. That has proven to be true. Now we want more people to experience the concept.”
Haron Ascanio Cazzaniga and Alfonso Pepe, founders of Paradis Gelateria
A new chapter in Paradis’s journey
Hennig-Olsen is a leading ice cream player in the Nordics, with extensive experience in product development, production and distribution. As the new owner, the Hennig-Olsen family brings industrial expertise and a strong commercial network, creating strong conditions for the continued development of Paradis. With the Hennig-Olsen family as partner, the ambition is to further develop the concept and accelerate expansion, with a focus on new openings and entry into additional markets.
“Paradis really knows gelato. From one gelato counter to ten gelato bars. Gelato is a segment with strong growth, and we are curious about what we can learn and what we can contribute.”
Paal Otto Hennig-Olsen
Merge ran a competitive process
Merge acted as M&A adviser to the owners of Paradis, with a focus on identifying a partner for the company’s next phase of growth. The process attracted interest from both strategic and financial players, creating strong conditions for selecting the right partner.
“We look forward to beginning our partnership with the Hennig Olsen family and to continue growing Paradis. Thank you Merge for a good collaboration!”
Haron Ascanio Cazzaniga, founder of Paradis Gelateria
For us at Merge, it has been a pleasure to support Paradis through a successful process, and we look forward to following the company’s continued journey.
