Nexira, a global supplier of natural ingredients and botanical extracts has acquired the Swiss company Unipektin Ingredients AG, a specialist in natural hydrocolloids and premium ingredients.
 
Unipektin produces locust bean gum, used for its thickening, stabilizing properties. Its product range also includes specialty ingredients such as specific grades of tara gum, hydrolyzed guar gum, and beet fiber.
 
“This acquisition consolidates our position as a key player in natural plant-based ingredients—a dynamic market that caters to consumers seeking new sensory experiences and plant-based, natural, sustainably produced alternatives,” said Olivier Houalla, Nexira managing director.
 
With turnover of more than $155 million in 2021, and 90% of that total coming from international sales, the French company that built its reputation in acacia (with a market share of more than 40%) now manufactures a wide range functional and nutritional ingredients for health and nutrition applications.
 
“After a successful diversification, providing a wide range of premium and branded botanical extracts to the health and nutrition markets, we are affirming our external growth strategy with the acquisition of a 100% equity interest in Unipektin Ingredients AG. This new acquisition consolidates our position as an undisputed and independent world leader in natural ingredients for food and nutrition,” said Mathieu Dondain, Nexira general manager. 
 
Nexira has a presence on five continents and in more than 80 countries. “This is an excellent opportunity to provide Unipektin Ingredients AG with enhanced international exposure, highly skilled customer service, and expanded recognition for reliable sourcing,” said Robert Ackermann, member of the board of directors of Unipektin.
 
“Nexira will immediately implement its value innovation with a wider portfolio of solutions and new product developments launched at Food Ingredients Europe in late November,” Dondain added. Terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.