Givaudan, the global leader in the creation of flavours and fragrances, has entered into an agreement to acquire  Naturex, the global leader in specialty plant-based natural ingredients. The transaction is part of Givaudan’s 2020 strategy to strengthen its capabilities in natural flavour solutions for its customers and will create a clear market leader in natural extracts and ingredients.

Headquartered in Avignon, France, Naturex has experienced steadily-increasing growth throughout the last 25 years. The Group employs 1,700 people worldwide and in 2017 had revenue of €404.9 million.

Olivier Rigaud, CEO of Naturex commented: “This combination is supported by a strong strategic rationale with an ambition to become the leader in natural ingredients. We are proud to become part of Givaudan and leverage the complementary capabilities for our customers.”

Naturex sources, manufactures and markets natural specialty ingredients for the food, health and cosmetic industries. As the Natural Maker, the company actively supports the global shift from synthetic to natural through an offer built on two main focus areas: My Natural Food and My Natural Selfcare. Naturex’s portfolio includes colours, antioxidants, specialty fruits & vegetables, phytoactives, and numerous other plant-based natural ingredients, designed to create healthy, authentic and effective products.