Astorg's Judith Charpentier says the firm is refocusing on its core mid-market segment to maximize exit optionality amid a difficult M&A environment. The Fund VII, fully invested in 2019, sits at a 0.7x DPI with a target of 1x next year. Three exits have generated €3 billion in proceeds at a 2.8x money multiple, including Normec, Anaqua, and Clario. Charpentier notes holding periods have extended beyond seven years, pressuring sellers to be realistic on valuations.

Epiris has appointed Owen Wilson as managing partner, effective October 2026, succeeding Bill Priestley who will retire. Wilson joined in 2013 and was named chief investment partner in 2024. Priestley has led the firm since its founding and currently chairs the management and investment committees.

Platinum Equity and Nestlé have agreed to create Peranel, a 50/50 joint venture housing Nestlé's waters and premium beverages business valued at $5.6 billion. Headquartered in Paris, Peranel spans over 30 brands sold in 120 countries, including S.Pellegrino, Perrier, and Nestlé Pure Life. Platinum plans to use M&A to sharpen the portfolio. The deal is expected to close in the first half of 2027, subject to regulatory approvals.