ABFI targets global polyphenol expansion through Fytexia Group acquisition

02 Feb 2022 --- Specialty ingredients provider ABF Ingredients (ABFI) has acquired Fytexia Group, a life science company developing scientifically supported active nutrients for dietary supplements.

“This strategic acquisition will increase ABFI’s relevance and capabilities to service the dietary supplements industry. ABFI will continue its growth journey through both its six businesses and [other] acquisitions,” Fabienne Saadane-Oaks, CEO at ABFI, tells NutritionInsight.

The acquisition will broaden ABFI’s product and capability range, enabling it to better serve the pharmaceutical, nutritional and food industries. Additionally, as the Fytexia Group has a strong geographical presence across Europe, Asia and the US, it is “ideally positioned to serve global customers.”

“ABFI will accelerate the development of our activity globally in the best possible conditions, with the support of a larger organization. Therefore, we will increase our clinical research to support our existing product line as well as our future developments,” says Matthieu Arguillère, CEO of Fytexia Group.

“Fytexia Group is a science-driven business that services the dietary supplements industry,” adds Saadane-Oaks. “Fytexia Group will bring expertise in polyphenols and health and nutrition active ingredients extracts from botanicals and propolis, therefore strengthening the ABFI offering in health and nutrition ingredients.”

ABFI did not disclose the financial details of the acquisition.

Expanding polyphenol offerings
Fytexia Group’s core focus on polyphenols will remain the same, with the added support of being part of a larger group to invest in strategic assets and support its overall strategy, Saadane-Oaks explains.

“The business will continue operating as is and we will explore additional cross-selling and innovation opportunities leveraging ABFI’s products and expertise.”Fytexia Group’s geographical presence will allow ABFI to accelerate its product offerings internationally.

Fytexia Group comprises two companies: Fytexia, a global leader in polyphenols, and B Natural, the European leader in brown propolis extraction and refinement.

This follows Fytexia’s partnership with B Natural that focuses on developing polyphenol-rich propolis products.

The Group researches and scientifically validates bioactive compounds to provide functional ingredients targeting human health and wellness, focusing on noncommunicable diseases.

“Fytexia Group has demonstrated over the last few years a track record of growth, driven by strong investments in science, product development and international expansion, under the majority ownership of ArchiMed,” says Robin Filmer-Wilson, managing partner of ArchiMed.

“We have been convinced by the strategic plan shared between ABFI and the management team.”

Previously, ABFI, in partnership with Abitec, acquired Larodan, a manufacturer of lipids.

By Nicole Kerr