Frutarom (Haifa, Israel) has acquired the North American division of Acatris Health for €10.5 million in the latest step in its rapid expansion program. Acatris Health’s portfolio consists of the Lifeline product range, including the branded ingredients Linumlife, Fenulife and Soylife. Its primary markets are Western Europe and the United States and sales in 2005 were €11.6 million. In these markets Frutarom expects Acatris Health’s existing marketing and sales organization to deliver cross-selling opportunities with its existing client base and product offering. Also, Frutarom’s presence in Asia will facilitate an entry into that market for Acatris Health’s products.
Overall, this acquisition will strengthen Frutarom’s functional foods and dietary supplements portfolios, along with the company’s R&D department. It is expected that integration of Acatris Health will be completed within two quarters. As a part of the deal, Frutarom has purchased Acatris Health’s premises in Belgium, allowing the 38 personnel to remain. Ultimately, Acatris Health will be renamed as Frutarom.
