South African-founded tech investor Prosus, majority-owned by Naspers, has acquired Just Eat Takeaway.com for €4.1 billion ($4.3 billion) in a major shakeup of the global food delivery market. The deal makes Prosus the fourth-largest food delivery company in the world, behind China’s Meituan, and strengthens its presence in Europe alongside its 28% stake in Delivery Hero. 

Just Eat’s management and supervisory board have unanimously approved the acquisition. Following the announcement, Just Eat shares surged 55%, while Prosus shares fell 6% in Amsterdam. 

Prosus CEO Fabricio Bloisi said the focus will be on growth, innovation, and job creation in the technology, restaurant, and delivery sectors. He also confirmed plans to invest in AI-driven improvements for Just Eat’s operations. "We expect to create more jobs in many dimensions, more jobs in the technology sector, more jobs in restaurants, and more opportunities for drivers," Bloisi said.

With investments in food delivery spanning more than 70 countries, including Latin America’s iFood, India’s Swiggy, and a 4% stake in Meituan, Prosus continues to expand its global influence. Analysts have speculated about a potential merger between Just Eat and Delivery Hero, but Bloisi denied any immediate plans for further acquisitions, saying the company is focused on executing and growing its existing businesses.

Just Eat, which reported a 36% growth in its 2024 core profit, will continue operating from Amsterdam under its current management. The acquisition reinforces South Africa’s growing impact in global tech investment, further positioning African companies as major players in the digital economy.