07/03/2007

Brenntag acquires Italian food ingredients and raw materials distributor Natural World

Effective July 1, 2007, Brenntag, the global leader in the growth market for chemicals distribution, acquired the Italian food ingredients and raw materials distributor Natural World, headquartered in Lugo (RA), Northern Italy.

 

Natural World distributes specialty chemicals to the Italian food industry, in particular ingredients and formulations to focused industries in the bakery and dairy segment.

 

The acquisition sees Brenntag expanding its position in the distribution of food ingredients to the Italian market and thus within Europe. Karsten Beckmann, Managing Director Brenntag Italy, explains: “Working jointly with Natural World we are strengthening market segments such as the dairy and bakery industry, benefiting from the outstanding expertise and experience of the company’s team in the area of food performance products. The acquisition also enables us to enhance our existing portfolio with new specialties chemicals and application know-how. The management of Brenntag Italy is extremely pleased about the cooperation and extends a warm welcome to all its new colleagues.”

 

Alcide Resta, Managing Director Natural World, sees excellent opportunities for both parties going forward: “The Italian food market is one of the largest in Europe. The alliance with an international and well-established partner like Brenntag will help us to continue our successes. We are glad to be a strong complement to a growing distribution network.”

 

In 2006 Brenntag once again succeeded in underpinning its position as one of the world’s leading chemical distributors. The company recorded external sales of EUR 6.1 billion (US$ 7.6 billion). Brenntag operates more than 300 locations with over 10,000 people in 50 countries. In keeping with the company’s strong position in world markets, Brenntag is committed to providing value to its customers and suppliers through superior supply chain logistics, single sourcing and value added services. Brenntag offers an unrivalled, extensive and state-of-the-art distribution network for industrial and specialty chemicals to its suppliers and customers alike, both in Europe and the Americas.