The globally renowned leader in food safety, quality and sustainability solutions has signed an agreement to acquire the global food analysis and certification activities of the French group Bureau Veritas. Here are some explanations from the experts at AURIS Finance, a consultancy specialising in mergers and acquisitions.
In early October, Bureau Veritas, the French inspection, certification and laboratory testing specialist, announced that it had reached an agreement to sell its food analysis operations to Mérieux NutriSciences, a subsidiary of Institut Mérieux, for a company value of €360 million. This strategic move is set to bolster Mérieux NutriSciences’ capabilities in the areas of microbiological and chemical analysis, as well as molecular testing for the food industry. This latest move is indicative of the current dynamic in the sector. Faced with increasingly complex health standards and pressure from manufacturers on test reliability, sector professionals are seeking to strengthen their positions through targeted acquisitions.
A comprehensive offer
In 2023, Bureau Veritas generated €133 million in sales from its analytical activities, facilitated by a global network of 34 laboratories and over 1,900 technicians. Mérieux NutriSciences specialises in microbiological analyses, physio-chemical analyses and sensory analysis studies, and also offers regulatory monitoring and labelling consultancy services, as well as audit and training. This comprehensive offering enables the American giant to support food industry stakeholders throughout the value chain.
Targeting one billion dollars
The company has announced that it is on track to achieve sales of one billion dollars through this recent transaction, solidifying its position as a global leader in the field of analysis, inspection and certification (TIC) services within the food sector. The acquisition of Bureau Veritas’ analysis activities will enable Mérieux NutriSciences to extend its presence to 32 countries and double its presence in Canada and South Asia. Other regions of the world are currently under consideration. The group has confirmed that it is in advanced discussions with AsureQuality, a recognised food safety solutions provider based in New Zealand, with a view to a joint venture.
Strategic realignment
By selling its analysis activities, Bureau Veritas is refocusing its strategy. The group is now focusing on its historical activities in testing, inspection and certification. The sale of its food analysis division is part of a drive to rationalise and optimise its business portfolio. To achieve its objectives, the group has implemented a programme of mergers and acquisitions, with businesses that do not meet the performance criteria being subject to improvement and portfolio optimisation schemes. Consequently, certain businesses are being divested, while new acquisitions are being made, enabling the group to strengthen its position in its key sectors of construction, infrastructure and industry. In 2024, Bureau Veritas acquired IDP Group, a leading independent provider of BIM (Building Information Modelling) services.
Our experts at your service
In a highly regulated sector, the race for critical mass and the integration of new skills is a strategic lever for companies wishing to remain competitive. AURIS Finance’s experts are specialised by sector. They provide comprehensive support throughout the acquisition or sale process.
