Prosus Sets Its Sights on Just Eat: A €4.1 Billion Gamble

March 1, 2025, 4:56 pm
Delivery Hero
Delivery Hero
DeliveryE-commerceFoodTechInternetLocalMarketplaceOnlinePizzaPlatformService
Location: Germany, Berlin
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 2011
Total raised: $5.72B
Prosus
Prosus
FinTechServicePlatformE-commerceAgriTechInvestmentTechnologyITHealthTechLogistics
Location: Netherlands, North Holland, Amsterdam
Employees: 501-1000
Founded date: 2019
Grubhub
Grubhub
AppDeliveryFoodTechInformationInternetLocalMarketplaceMobileOnlineService
Location: United States, Illinois, Chicago
Employees: 1001-5000
Founded date: 2004
Total raised: $84.1M
In a bold move, Prosus has announced its intention to acquire Just Eat Takeaway.com for €4.1 billion. This deal, which values Just Eat shares at €20.30 each, represents a staggering 63% premium over the company's recent closing price. The acquisition is not just a financial transaction; it’s a strategic play to dominate the European food delivery market.

Prosus, a technology investment giant, is controlled by South Africa's Naspers. It already holds a significant stake in Delivery Hero, owning 28% of the company. This acquisition is a step towards creating a European tech champion in the food delivery sector. Just Eat Takeaway.com, formed from the merger of Just Eat and Takeaway.com in 2020, has faced its share of challenges. The company recently sold its Grubhub division for $650 million, a massive drop from the $7.3 billion it paid just a few years prior. Despite these hurdles, Just Eat reported an adjusted annual profit of €460 million, buoyed by operational improvements in the UK and Ireland.

The leadership at Prosus sees this acquisition as a golden opportunity. By merging its technical prowess and investment capabilities with Just Eat's established market presence, they aim to create a powerhouse in the food delivery landscape. The CEO of Prosus emphasized the potential for advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, to enhance delivery operations and efficiency.

Following the announcement, Just Eat's stock surged by 55%, while Prosus shares dipped by 6%. This reaction underscores the market's mixed feelings about the deal. The transaction awaits shareholder approval and is expected to close by the end of 2025. Notably, Just Eat's headquarters will remain in Amsterdam, preserving its current management team.

This acquisition reflects Prosus's strategy to expand its footprint in the food delivery sector. It complements existing investments in platforms like iFood in Latin America, Swiggy in India, and Meituan in China. The integration of Just Eat's operations with Prosus's resources is poised to accelerate growth and innovation in the European market.

Analysts are keenly observing how this deal will reshape the competitive dynamics of the food delivery industry in Europe. The potential for new partnerships and further consolidations looms large. The success of the newly formed entity will hinge on effective integration and the deployment of cutting-edge technologies.

Prosus has committed to maintaining Just Eat's key brands and continuing investments in adjacent areas, such as grocery delivery and financial services. This expansion aims to broaden the range of services available to European consumers. The successful completion of the acquisition is contingent upon obtaining necessary regulatory approvals and ongoing support from shareholders of both companies.

If executed as planned, this transaction could redefine the European food delivery landscape in the coming years. Prosus and Just Eat are poised to keep stakeholders informed about the progress of the acquisition and future integration plans, ensuring transparency throughout the process.

The food delivery market is a battlefield. Giants clash, and the stakes are high. Prosus's acquisition of Just Eat is a strategic maneuver to secure a larger slice of this lucrative pie. The combination of resources and expertise could create a formidable competitor, one that can navigate the complexities of the European market.

In a world where convenience is king, food delivery services have become essential. Consumers crave speed and efficiency. They want their meals delivered at the click of a button. Prosus understands this demand. By acquiring Just Eat, they are not just buying a company; they are investing in the future of food delivery.

The integration of advanced technologies will be crucial. AI can optimize routes, reduce delivery times, and enhance customer experiences. This is not just about delivering food; it’s about delivering satisfaction. The race is on to see who can innovate faster and serve customers better.

As the dust settles on this announcement, the industry watches closely. Will Prosus succeed in its quest to create a European tech champion? Only time will tell. But one thing is clear: the food delivery landscape is changing. And those who adapt will thrive.

In conclusion, Prosus's acquisition of Just Eat Takeaway.com is a significant step in the evolution of the food delivery market. It’s a calculated risk, a bold strategy aimed at creating a leader in the industry. As the transaction unfolds, the implications for consumers, competitors, and the market at large will be profound. The future of food delivery in Europe is on the brink of transformation, and Prosus is at the helm.