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Swiss nutrition groups Hochdorf and Pharmalys have announced the establishment of Hochdorf Laboratories, a new joint venture in the infant formula category.

The JV combines Hochdorf’s Swiss manufacturing and technology expertise with Pharmalys’ brand portfolio and established international distribution network.

Both companies – based in Hochdorf, Lucerne, Switzerland – aim to strengthen their presence in the premium infant nutrition space, enabling them to take advantage of targeted international market opportunities.

Pharmalys specialises in premium infant nutrition, with a distribution network across 32 countries. It will bring its international presence together with Hochdorf’s 130 years of experience in spray drying and advanced nutrition technologies.

Hochdorf manufactures and distributes infant formula under its Bimbosan and Babina brands. It also provides specialised nutrition offerings made from milk and whey, both as a B2B ingredient supplier and to consumers worldwide.

The joint venture is backed by Hochdorf’s parent company AS Equity Partners, a private equity firm focused on control investments in mid-market companies in technology and industrial sectors.

Andreas Schulte, chairman of the board of directors at Hochdorf Swiss Nutrition and founder and managing partner at AS Equity Partners, said: “The establishment of Hochdorf Laboratories is an important step in the further development of our company”.

“Together with Pharmalys, we are creating a strong platform that combines our industrial expertise with international market access and opens up new growth opportunities.”