That's according to FRP Corporate Finance, which originated and supported the deal and represented Omega's shareholders.
FRP Corporate Finance said the acquisition of Omega would give Robertet a UK flavours and ingredients manufacturing presence and further strengthen its development capabilities.
It added that Omega would benefit from Robertet’s international footprint to further extend its reach overseas, particularly in the US, while enabling the business to continue its aims to develop in the UK. These include plans to build a new, carbon-neutral, research and manufacturing facility next to its current Ipswich premises.
Natural flavours and extracts
Omega, which is based in Ipswich, creates natural flavours and extracts, and supplies high-quality natural aroma chemicals to food and drink producers worldwide.
Its customers include global blue-chip companies and UK household brands. Previous innovative projects have included working with NASA to recreate the ‘smell of space’ as part of efforts to increase the realism of astronaut training programmes.
Robertet Group, which has its headquarters in France, produces fragrances, flavours and natural raw materials. It operates from 14 sites across North and South America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East, and has an annual turnover of €606m.
'Next chapter'
“We’re thrilled to begin the next chapter of our history as part of The Robertet Group," said Steve Pearce, chief executive officer at Omega Ingredients. "We share the same passion for naturals and products of excellence, the same vision with our CSR policies and of a strongly integrated sourcing of natural flavours and extracts.
“I’m exceptionally proud of the business we’ve built over the last 20 years. Together with the team at Robertet, we’re now looking forward to putting the next stage of our growth plans into action.”
The deal was supported by FRP Corporate Finance partner Jon Dodge, senior manager Alex Hunton and director Ryan Symonds, who represented Omega shareholders.
Dodge said: “Consumers around the world are increasingly conscious of what they are eating and drinking – something that’s prompting manufacturers to turn away from artificial ingredients, and driving huge amounts of activity in the flavourings and ingredients market.
Leaders in natural products
“As leaders in natural products, Omega and Robertet are both in an incredibly strong position to capitalise on these trends. This deal is a strong alignment between two organisations renowned for their passion and commitment to innovation in natural food and beverage products, and will help each unlock further growth.”
Birketts provided legal advice to Omega Ingredients.
