Top Private Equity Firms in Turkey

Turkey, a dynamic and strategic market at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is a burgeoning hub for investment and business. Its growing economy and entrepreneurial landscape have attracted some of the most prominent private equity (PE) firms in the region.

These firms invest across a diverse range of industries, from consumer goods and retail to technology and healthcare, helping Turkish companies scale and achieve international success.

In this article, we’ll explore the top private equity firms in Turkey, highlighting their portfolio, investment focus, and notable contributions.

1. Actera Group

Founded in 2006, Actera Group is the largest private equity firm in Turkey, exclusively focused on investing in Turkish companies. With over $3.3 billion in assets under management, Actera has a strong track record of backing market leaders and driving significant growth.

The firm's portfolio is diverse, covering sectors like retail, consumer goods, healthcare, and financial services. A standout investment was their acquisition of Mars Cinema Group, Turkey's largest cinema chain, which they successfully grew before selling it to South Korea's CJ CGV. Actera is known for its hands-on, value-added approach, working closely with management teams to implement operational improvements and strategic initiatives.

Their investments in companies like MACFit (a leading fitness chain) and Korozo (a major packaging manufacturer) demonstrate their ability to identify high-potential businesses and transform them into industry giants. Actera’s deep local market knowledge and extensive network make it a go-to partner for Turkish entrepreneurs seeking to scale.

2. TURKVEN Private Equity

As one of Turkey's pioneering private equity firms, TURKVEN has been a key player in the market since its founding in 2000. The firm partners with leading Turkish businesses, providing growth capital and strategic guidance to help them expand both locally and internationally.

TURKVEN focuses on companies with strong management teams and proven business models across sectors like consumer, healthcare, logistics, and retail. One of their most iconic investments is in Mavi Jeans, which they helped transform from a local brand into a global apparel powerhouse.

Another notable partnership was with Medical Park Hospitals Group, which became one of Turkey's largest private healthcare providers under their stewardship. TURKVEN’s strategy centers on fostering long-term partnerships and using their expertise to institutionalize family-owned businesses and drive sustainable growth.

3. Mediterra Capital

Mediterra Capital is a leading private equity firm that focuses on mid-market companies in Turkey. Established in 2011, the firm seeks to invest in businesses with strong growth potential, often in sectors like consumer goods, financial services, and B2B services.

The firm is distinguished by its operational focus, bringing in experienced industry advisors to help portfolio companies optimize their processes and expand their market reach.

Mediterra’s investment in Arzum, a leading Turkish small home appliances brand, is a prime example of its success. Mediterra supported Arzum's product innovation and international expansion, culminating in a successful IPO on the Borsa Istanbul.

Their portfolio also includes Logo Yazılım, a prominent business software provider, showcasing their ability to fuel growth in both traditional and tech-focused industries.

4. Esas Holding

Esas Holding is one of Turkey’s largest family-owned investment firms, with a significant private equity arm that invests across a wide range of sectors. Founded in 2000, Esas has a flexible investment mandate, participating in everything from venture capital to large-scale buyouts. Their portfolio includes major names in aviation, retail, healthcare, and entertainment.

A landmark investment for Esas is Pegasus Airlines, which they transformed into one of Europe's leading low-cost carriers. By providing strategic capital and operational oversight, Esas played a pivotal role in the airline's rapid expansion and successful public listing.

Their investment in Mars Sportif, the operator of MACFit gyms, further highlights their knack for identifying and scaling consumer-facing businesses in high-growth markets.

5. Pera Capital Partners

Established in 2006, Pera Capital Partners is an independent private equity firm dedicated to investing in Turkey's dynamic mid-market. The firm focuses on providing growth capital to companies with strong competitive positions and significant expansion potential.

Their investment portfolio spans various sectors, including consumer goods, retail, business services, and manufacturing. A key example of their success is their partnership with Toyzz Shop, which they helped scale into Turkey's leading toy retailer.

Pera Capital is known for its hands-on and collaborative approach, working closely with entrepreneurs and management teams to drive value. Their strategy involves supporting portfolio companies with strategic planning, operational improvements, and corporate governance to help them institutionalize and prepare for the next phase of growth.

By combining financial investment with deep operational expertise, Pera Capital has built a reputation for transforming promising mid-sized businesses into market leaders.

6. Taxim Capital

Taxim Capital is a private equity firm that targets mid-market companies in Turkey with strong growth prospects. Founded by an experienced team of investment professionals, the firm focuses on providing growth capital and supporting buyouts.

They partner with strong management teams and entrepreneurs, typically in consumer-focused industries, industrials, and business services. A significant investment in their portfolio is BigChefs, a popular casual dining restaurant chain.

Taxim Capital has supported the chain's expansion both within Turkey and internationally, helping it grow its footprint and brand recognition. Their investment in Netlog Logistics, one of the region’s largest logistics providers, also showcases their ability to back and scale market leaders.

7. Globalturk Capital

Globalturk Capital operates with a unique model, acting as both an advisory firm and a co-investor for Turkish mid-market companies. Founded in 2011, they specialize in helping family-owned businesses institutionalize, improve corporate governance, and prepare for strategic partnerships or exits.

They invest their own capital alongside other local and international investors. The firm's approach is highly collaborative, focusing on preparing companies for their next stage of growth by strengthening their financial and operational foundations.

They work across various sectors, with a particular focus on helping businesses that are poised for international expansion. This model makes them a valuable partner for entrepreneurs who need both capital and deep strategic guidance.

8. CEECAT Capital

CEECAT Capital is a leading private equity firm focused on growth capital investments in the emerging markets of Central and Eastern Europe, with Turkey as a core market. The firm specializes in partnering with small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs), providing the capital and strategic support needed to unlock their growth potential.

Having spun out from the team that previously managed the ECP Turkey Growth Fund in partnership with TURKVEN, CEECAT Capital carries a deep legacy and extensive network within the Turkish market.

The firm is known for its hands-on, collaborative approach, working closely with entrepreneurs to accelerate growth, drive international expansion, and implement best practices in corporate governance. A prime example of their success is their investment in Hitit, a leading airline and travel IT solutions provider.

CEECAT supported Hitit’s global expansion and product development, culminating in a successful Initial Public Offering (IPO) on Borsa Istanbul. This track record makes CEECAT a go-to partner for ambitious Turkish companies poised for significant growth.

Let’s Recap

Turkey's strategic location and dynamic economy make it a prime destination for private equity investment. The firms listed above are instrumental in fueling the growth of countless companies, contributing to innovation and success across numerous industries. These firms stand out due to their local market expertise, strategic investments, and ability to create lasting value.

If you're an entrepreneur or a business owner in Turkey looking to take your company to the next level, identifying the right PE firm is crucial. Private Equity List makes this process easier by providing a fast and easy-to-use platform to identify relevant private equity firms for your project. Whether you're a startup or an established company, Private Equity List connects you with the right investors.

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