Firmenich expands presence in US and South Africa

Swiss fragrance and flavour company Firmenich has completed the acquisition of US-based flavour manufacturer Natural Flavors for an undisclosed price.

Firmenich expressed its intent to acquire Natural Flavors in December last year.

The company noted that the transaction has been completed after obtaining clearance from the relevant regulatory authorities.

Firmenich CEO Gilbert Ghostine said: “We are excited to combine Natural Flavors’ best-in-class organic-certified portfolio with our expertise to offer our customers the broadest variety of creative natural solutions in our industry.”

Headquartered in Newark, New Jersey, Natural Flavours produces organic-certified natural flavours for the food and beverage industry.

The US-based firm is said to have developed and commercialised its first organic-certified flavours in North America during the late 1990s.

Firmenich board chairman Patrick Firmenich said: “Building on the Stein family’s vision as pioneers of the organic movement, we look forward to delighting consumers around the world with leading natural and organic-certified flavours.”

In addition to Natural Flavors, the Swiss company has also completed the acquisition of South African flavour company Flavourome.

Financial details of the acquisition have not been divulged by both the companies.

With the acquisition, Firmenich intends to expand its presence in the African region as well as access new customers and high-performing manufacturing facilities.