Purezza and La Fauxmagerie announce merger

Plant-based pizza chain Purezza has announced a merger with artisan vegan cheese manufacturer La Fauxmagerie, acquiring a majority stake in the company.

The merger aims to create a ‘plant-based powerhouse’ that will bring expanded collaborations between the two brands, allowing Purezza to accelerate innovation in sustainable plant-based products and menus that appeal to all consumers.

Purezza was founded in 2015, first opening its flagship restaurant in Brighton. It now has additional locations in Manchester and London.

The restaurant said it places high-quality ingredients sourced from local artisans at the forefront of its ethos, sourcing organic and seasonal produce where possible. The merger with La Fauxmagerie is described as another step in Purezza’s growth to deliver vegan culinary services inclusive of all dietary requirements.

Founded by siblings Rachel and Charlotte Stevens, La Fauxmagerie has seen rapid growth since its inception in 2018 with listings in Waitrose and Planet Organic as well as a stand-alone store in London.

The cheese brand’s mission is to curate dairy-free cheese products that do not compromise on flavour and quality.

Co-founder Charlotte commented: “We’re so excited to be joining the Purezza family who, in addition to being female-led, share our mission to increase accessibility to high-quality, plant-based products. By combining the forces of the best plant-based restaurant and cheese brand in the UK, we can continue to expand our offering together and bring the best plant-based products to the world.”

Stefania Evangelisti, co-founder of Purezza, said: “At Purezza’s core, we want to be able to offer foodie vegans, vegetarians and even those with no dietary requirements an alternative that doesn’t compromise on quality, flavour and dining excellence and La Fauxmagerie is passionate to achieve the same goals. It’s a perfect match in our eyes.”

Both brands will be showcased side-by-side for the first time this week at the Plant Based World Expo Europe on 15-16 November at the Excel arena in London.