Rautenberg & Company advises metrofibre on the sale of a majority stake in ruhrfibre Essen to DIF Capital Partners.

Our team advised metrofibre GmbH on the preparation of a sale of a majority stake in ruhrfibre Essen Holding GmbH and ruhrfibre Essen Netz KG to DIF Capital Partners and of a minority stake in ruhrfibre Essen Netz KG to Essener Versorgungs- und Verkehrsgesellschaft mbH (EVV). Signing of the transaction took place in November 2022.

metrofibre develops, finances, builds and operates state-of-the-art fibre optic networks, bringing high-performance digital infrastructure to urban areas. A passive open network concept creates non-discriminatory access for telecommunications operators. metrofibre relies on close cooperation with municipalities, regional partners and investors and thus makes a valuable contribution to the digital transformation of German cities - privately financed and without government subsidies.

ruhrfibre is a partnership between the City of Essen, renowned infrastructure investor DIF Capital Partners and metrofibre to roll-out a full-coverage FTTH network in the Ruhr area. Objective is to provide c. 150,000 households as well as businesses, hospitals and public institutions with gigabit internet access via an ultra-modern fibre network. The ruhrfibre partnership model is a pioneering concept in Germany for fibre roll-out in urban areas.

DIF Capital Partners is an independent infrastructure fund manager, with more than EUR 15 billion of AUM. DIF was founded in 2005 and has built a leading position in managing mid-market investments, primarily in Europe, North America and Australia. The firm’s CIF funds invest in small to mid-sized companies that will thrive in the new economy. These companies are typically active in the digital, energy transition and sustainable transportation sector. With a team of over 200 professionals in 11 offices, DIF offers a unique market approach combining global presence with strong local networks and investment capabilities.

Our team supported metrofibre in the development of the ruhrfibre concept and with continued strategic advice.