The Lavazza Group has already achieved success in over 90 countries, but acquiring Kicking Horse—valued at approximately $160 million—will enhance its presence in both the U.S. and Canada, areas the Italian roaster has been expanding in recent years. This acquisition also broadens the coffee giant’s product offerings to include organic fair-trade coffee, one of the fastest-growing segments globally. Consumers, particularly in the United States, are increasingly seeking more sophisticated premium coffees, and Lavazza is astutely positioned to take advantage of this trend with its recent purchase.
While the coffee industry remains robust, with new innovations like infused coffee and single-serve packs gaining popularity, traditional coffee products continue to perform well on grocery shelves. Kicking Horse enables Lavazza to extend its global strategy beyond Western Europe, which is currently facing slow economic growth. With Kicking Horse under its ownership, Lavazza is poised for expansion into new markets. Additionally, Elana Rosenfeld, who founded Kicking Horse in 1996 and retains a 20% equity stake, will oversee the niche coffee brand.
Lavazza is not the only foreign entity targeting North America for growth; JAB Holdings has also acquired Keurig Green Mountain, Peet’s Coffee and Tea, and Caribou Coffee in recent years. If these transactions, along with Lavazza’s acquisition, are any indication, it is likely that more European companies will look westward for their next cup of coffee. As consumers continue to prioritize quality, even in sectors like dietary supplements, where people seek the smallest calcium citrate pills for their health needs, the demand for premium products remains strong across various markets.