Limagrain Céréales Ingrédients (LCI) has bought 100% of the shares of Netherlands-based Unicorn Grain Specialties from Nordian Capital.
LCI, a subsidiary of agricultural cooperative Limagrain, said the move marks “a major step towards internationalisation”, drawing attention to the “strong presence” that Unicorn has in the cereals and pulses markets in Northern Europe.
The new group, with a workforce of 350 employees, will generate a turnover close to €150 million and will process more than 330,000 tonnes of grain each year in seven production plants across Europe.
Employing 75 people, Unicorn Grain Specialties said it assigns the correct texture characteristics to products such as savoury snacks, cereals, granola bars, bread and batter.
LCI managing director Emmanuel Goujon said: “Unicorn has a very strong presence in the Benelux and Germany, competitive and innovative products, a team with a solid know-how.
“The two companies share one and the same vision of food that must be safe, natural, and a source of pleasure. Thus, thanks to our research efforts (variety selection of plants, heat treatment, nutrition), we will continue to offer the best cereals to satisfy our customers with an extended range of products, 100% natural and with high added value. ”
Pieter Spanjers, managing director of Unicorn Grain Specialties, added: “This operation marks an opportunity to accelerate our development strategy with the strength of Limagrain Group and to enter a new dimension. We are delighted to be able to benefit from LCI’s size, geographic location, product offerings and cereal expertise.
“Together with four locations in Europe (France, the Netherlands, Germany, UK), we create a European leader with strong ambitions. Limagrain Céréales Ingrédients is a strategic partner who, like us, is convinced of the strength of innovation to develop natural solutions with high added value for our customers. “
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