Major specialty chemical distributor Azelis has boosted its position in the Nordic region’s food market segment with the purchase of Denmark’s LCH for an undisclosed sum. Headquartered in Rødovre, LCH is a leading distributor of functional ingredients and own blends, primarily to the Danish food industry, and partners the largest bakery customers in the country.

Anna Bertona, CEO of Azelis Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), said LCH’S product portfolio complements Azelis’ current offering in the region. She commented: “Together we will cover the main food application markets, such as bakery, confectionery, ingredients and meat & fish. Furthermore, the acquisition of LCH immediately doubles the Azelis Nordic Food business, making us a leading food distributor in the region.”

LCH’s CEO, Gert Schnoor, added that the deal opens up new opportunities for his team and will allow expansion into new territories. Schnoor will become managing director of the combined Azelis Nordic organization, replacing Andrew Johnson, who will relocate to the UK.

Azelis noted that the acquisition of LCH endorses the commitment of its major shareholder, private equity fund Apax Partners, to support growth in the specialty food ingredients and chemical segments. The London, UK-headquartered investment group bought Azelis in 2015 from rival private equity fund 3i.