Big Moves in European Food Delivery: Prosus Acquires Just Eat Takeaway for $4.3 Billion

The food delivery industry in Europe is undergoing a major transformation as Dutch technology investor Prosus has announced plans to acquire Just Eat Takeaway.com for approximately $4.3 billion. This all-cash deal, revealed on February 24, 2025, marks a significant step toward consolidation in the sector, which has faced challenges in the post-pandemic landscape.

A Strategic Acquisition for Growth

Just Eat Takeaway, one of Europe’s largest food delivery platforms, has been struggling with slowing growth after the pandemic-fueled boom subsided. This acquisition comes at a critical time, providing Just Eat Takeaway with the financial backing it needs to remain competitive. With Prosus agreeing to purchase the company at 20.3 euros per share—a 63 percent premium over its previous market closing price—the move signals strong confidence in the brand’s long-term potential.

Jitse Groen, founder and CEO of Just Eat Takeaway, expressed optimism about the deal, emphasizing how it will allow the company to expand its investments in food, groceries, and fintech. Prosus’ financial resources and expertise are expected to play a key role in supporting these ambitions, ensuring that Just Eat Takeaway remains a strong contender in the fast-changing delivery market.

Market Reaction and Industry Challenges

Investors responded quickly to the news, sending Just Eat Takeaway shares soaring by 54.1 percent. However, not all market responses were positive. Prosus’ stock dropped by 8.7 percent, reflecting investor concerns over the sizable investment. Meanwhile, Delivery Hero, a competing food delivery service where Prosus holds a 28 percent stake, initially saw shares rise by 3.2 percent before stabilizing.

For Just Eat Takeaway, this acquisition represents a potential turning point following several recent struggles. In 2024, the company delisted from the London Stock Exchange due to low liquidity and high administrative costs. Additionally, it suffered a major financial setback with the sale of U.S.-based Grubhub for $650 million—an enormous loss from the $7.3 billion it originally paid. These financial challenges highlighted the need for a strategic shift, making the Prosus acquisition a welcome opportunity to reset and rebuild.

Prosus’ Vision for the Future

Fabricio Bloisi, CEO of Prosus and its parent company Naspers Group, emphasized the long-term benefits of the deal. He believes that combining Prosus’ investment expertise with Just Eat Takeaway’s strong brand will create significant value for multiple stakeholders, including customers, partner restaurants, delivery drivers, and shareholders.

With Prosus already positioned as a major investor in the food delivery market, this acquisition strengthens its hold in a competitive industry. The company’s strategic goal is to develop a more integrated and financially resilient platform that can adapt to shifting consumer spending habits and the growing demand for efficient delivery services.

A Sign of Industry Consolidation

This $4.3 billion acquisition points to a broader industry trend: large-scale consolidation as a survival strategy. With rising operational costs and changing customer expectations, food delivery companies are under increasing pressure to optimize their business models. By acquiring Just Eat Takeaway, Prosus aims to drive operational efficiencies, improve service offerings, and expand market share in an industry that is becoming increasingly difficult to navigate.

For Just Eat Takeaway, the deal presents a fresh start after years of turbulence. With renewed investment and a clearer strategic direction, the company may now have the stability it needs to strengthen its position in the European food delivery market. Meanwhile, competitors will be watching closely to see how this new dynamic reshapes the industry and influences future business strategies.

As the food delivery sector continues evolving, all eyes will be on Prosus and Just Eat Takeaway to see how they leverage this acquisition for long-term success. Their ability to integrate resources, expand services, and enhance customer experiences will determine the impact of this deal—not just for shareholders, but also for restaurants, delivery drivers, and consumers across the region.