March 25, 2024. Saratoga Capital is pleased to announce that it is partnering with SFW Starka to restore and reposition a historic Polish spirits producer with more than 155 years of heritage into an internationally recognised premium spirits brand.
The investment strategy focuses on preserving the company’s unique legacy while leveraging its production capabilities, intellectual property, and significant aged inventory to build a scalable, sustainable global business.
Company Overview
Established in the 19th century, SFW Starka has a long tradition of producing premium aged spirits. The company was privatised by the Polish Government in 1991, and in 2012 its assets were acquired by strategic investor Yasmia Group, including the production facility, equipment, trademarks, and associated intellectual property.
Following substantial investment in the production site and infrastructure, operations resumed in 2016. After a period of operational interruption due to ownership-related legal proceedings, the matter was resolved in favour of Yasmia in 2020, creating the foundation for renewed growth and expansion.
Investment Opportunity
Saratoga Capital sees a compelling opportunity supported by several unique assets:
- A historic production facility supported by modern equipment and infrastructure.
- A distinctive premium spirit with strong heritage and product differentiation.
- Approximately one million litres of aged inventory representing significant embedded value.
- Established brand equity and intellectual property rights.
- Experienced technical management with deep industry expertise.
- Opportunity to accelerate international growth through strategic partnerships and commercial expansion.
Growth Strategy
Saratoga Capital is implementing a multi-year transformation strategy focused on operational excellence, financial discipline, and brand development.
The strategy includes strengthening the company’s operational platform, optimising the asset base, addressing legacy obligations, and enabling management to focus on premium spirit production, distribution, and international market expansion.
To support this transformation, Saratoga Capital is enhancing the leadership team with experienced executives, including a Chief Operating Officer responsible for operational optimisation and a CEO with extensive beverage industry experience to lead the company’s next phase of growth.
By combining heritage, craftsmanship, and disciplined investment management, Saratoga Capital aims to establish SFW Starka as a distinctive global premium spirits brand.
About Saratoga Capital
Founded in 2008, Saratoga Capital Partners is a private equity and alternative asset management firm with a strong foundation in advisory and capital markets. Today, we develop and manage differentiated investment solutions, partnering with entrepreneurs, management teams, and investors to unlock opportunity, create enduring value, and deliver attractive long-term returns.