Ingredients distributor Barentz International has formed a joint venture with South Africa-headquartered raw materials supplier SK Chemtrade Services.
According to Barentz, the venture will give it quicker access to the market in southern Africa, while offering SK Chemtrade the support of Barentz’s global network.
Established in 1992 as a distributor of International Flavours & Fragrances, SK Chemtrade supplies materials to manufacturers of food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, household detergents and personal care products in South Africa and neighbouring countries.
The company’s headquarters are in Johannesburg and it has new product development and warehousing facilities in Cape Town.
Barentz CEO Hidde van der Wal said: “Because SK Chemtrade and Barentz are both active in the rapidly growing life sciences industry, we are naturally cut out to be partners.”
He added: “SK Chemtrade is well-known and well-managed and has a strong reputation. This partnership will provide a solid base for creating robust business opportunities in South Africa and its neighbouring countries.”
Mark Ferrao, managing director of SK Chemtrade, added: “As a strong strategic partner based in Europe, Barentz is an excellent fit. Both of our companies have the same ethos: delivering high-quality products and offering technical support whenever required, with an enthusiastic approach to product development.”
Barentz operates in more than 60 countries, has a turnover of around €1.1 billion and employs more than 1,100 people.
In June, the company announced the formation of a joint venture with Dutch ingredients company TasteStrik.
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