The Belgium-headquartered distributor owned by private equity investor EQT said the deal strengthens its offering to fast growing and attractive markets while at the same time diversifying and expanding its presence in France and Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA).

Azelis added that the buy is consistent with its strategy of complementing organic growth with strategic acquisitions as it gives the company an important foothold in the growing non-cyclical markets of flavors and fragrances, synergistic opportunities in animal nutrition and expands its offering in nutraceuticals.

Founded in 1988 by Jean-François Quarré – who will stay on as CEO – Michel Manalt and Claire Couratier, Quimdis originally focused on essential oils and active ingredients. Now specializing in distribution and formulation, the company based in Paris with sales of €100 million has a strong position in in the French market and has sales in more than 45 countries.

Following the acquisition of Quimdis and the recent acquisition of Vigon in North America, Azelis’ CEO and president Hans Joachim Müller said the distributor is well positioned to develop, structure and implement a global strategy for the flavor & fragrance market with the aim to become a market leader. Quimdis, he said, will be the company’s EMEA pillar and a crucial part of creating a global flavor & fragrance platform.

Benoit Fritz, managing director of Azelis France, added that Azelis will leverage Quimdis’ expertise to complement its lateral value chain with reliable and natural products like essential oils, amino acids, active ingredients, vitamins and minerals.

Author: Dede Williams, Freelance Journalist