London, UK, 23 September 2026 - Today Crosta Mollica and European Pizza Group announce a merger to create one of Europe’s largest pizza businesses with EUR 1 billion of retail sales.

The merger combines Crosta Mollica - one of Europe’s fastest-growing food brands - with European Pizza Group - producer of the much-loved Wagner and Buitoni pizza brands.

David Milner, Chairman of Crosta Mollica will become Group CEO of the combined entity. Tom Sirett will continue as CEO of Crosta Mollica and Matthias Casanova will continue as CEO of European Pizza Group. There are no short-term plans to change the operating model of either company, which will operate as standalone businesses.

Crosta Mollica will focus on maintaining the momentum that has made it one of UK grocery’s standout growth stories. Since David Milner and Tom Sirett joined in January 2024, retail sales have tripled from EUR 90m to 270m - becoming the UK’s #2 pizza brand and being named 2026 Food Brand of the Year by The Grocer magazine.

Growth at European Pizza Group has accelerated since its spin out from Nestlé in September 2023. The Wagner and Buitoni brands will continue their strong record of gaining market share in each of their 10 core European markets, supplied by major manufacturing operations in Italy and Germany.

David Milner said: “I am excited by the potential of this merger. Wagner and Buitoni are strong brands with excellent positions across Europe. Bringing them together with Crosta Mollica creates a highly complementary portfolio. Our focus will be on building on the strengths of each business while using the scale and capabilities of the combined group to accelerate growth. We have outstanding brands, talented people, and a strong platform from which to take the business forward.”

The combined group continues to be backed by the existing shareholders of each entity: PAI, Perwyn, Nestlé and management.

This merger happens at a time of significantly favourable tailwinds in the European pizza market. The grocery retail pizza market is gaining significant share on the pizza delivery market as consumers seek premium, restaurant quality experiences at home.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

For further information please contact Sara Pearson: sara@iamsarapearson.com | +44 (0)7818 061328

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