European investors are set to pour a further €43bn ($56bn) into buyout funds in the next few years to meet target allocations, in spite of calls from trade unions and senior financiers to show more caution.

Investors, including pension funds, insurance groups and endowments, have €231bn invested in the asset class, according to data provider Private Equity Intelligence. The additional money will be needed to help them meet set allocations, which has been difficult in recent years, according to consultants.