In what’s been called its largest acquisition ever, Nestlé has agreed to acquire Pfizer Nutrition for $11.85 billion (USD) to enhance its position in global infant nutrition. The acquisition, which is subject to regulatory approval, will be accretive to the Nestlé model both for growth and margins as well as the group’s earnings per share in the full first year. Nestlé estimates the acquired business’ 2012 sales at $2.4 billion. Eighty five percent of Pfizer Nutrition’s sales are in emerging markets, many of them with large, fast-growing populations. 

“Infant nutrition has been at the heart of our company since it was founded in 1866,” commented Paul Bulcke, Nestlé CEO. “Pfizer Nutrition is an excellent strategic fit and this acquisition underlines our commitment to be the world’s leading nutrition, health and wellness company. Its strong brands and product portfolio, its talented people dedicated to the success of its business, together with its geographic presence - 85% of its sales are in emerging markets - will complement our existing infant nutrition business perfectly. The combined entities will enable us to deepen our engagement with consumers, offering them a wider choice of nutritious food to ensure their children make a healthy start to a healthy life.”

Infant nutrition is a high-value, science-led category. Pfizer Nutrition is a dynamic infant nutrition business complements Nestlé’s existing portfolio with strong brands in key segments and geographies, and will enhance its infant nutrition business, building on its growth-focused strategy, global presence and pioneering research and development. Nestlé said the acquisition will enable it to combine well-known brands like S-26 Gold, SMA and Promil with its existing portfolio of brands such as Nan, Gerber, Lactogen, Nestogen and Cerelac infant cereal.