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French natural ingredients supplier Nexira has acquired Moroccan carob specialist Keragum, strengthening its position in the global market for plant-based texturising ingredients and reinforcing its strategy to secure raw material sourcing closer to origin.

The acquisition marks a key milestone in Nexira's Ambitions 2030 growth strategy and expands the company's footprint across the natural hydrocolloids value chain. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Keragum specialises in the production of locust bean gum (LBG), a clean-label hydrocolloid widely used as a thickener, stabiliser and texturiser in applications including dairy, plant-based foods, ice cream and nutraceuticals. The company operates a recently commissioned production facility near Casablanca and sources carob through partnerships with local cooperatives across Morocco, one of the world's leading carob-producing regions.

The deal further strengthens Nexira's presence in the carob market, where it has been building its portfolio since 2021. By integrating Keragum into its operations, the company aims to improve supply chain resilience, increase traceability and secure long-term access to high-quality carob raw materials.

Mathieu Dondain, vice president and chief executive officer of Nexira, said: "With Keragum, Nexira takes a new step forward. As with acacia, our ambition is to invest as close as possible to production, securing high-quality raw materials while generating tangible local value. Together, Keragum and Nexira will drive the stability, sustainability and long-term growth of a market we deeply believe in."

The acquisition reflects a broader trend across the food ingredients sector, where manufacturers are investing upstream to improve supply security amid growing demand for natural, plant-based ingredients. Locust bean gum has become increasingly important for clean-label formulation, delivering texture and stability in products ranging from plant-based alternatives to frozen desserts while also finding applications in dietary supplements.

According to Nexira, Keragum's modern production capabilities complement its own expertise in scientific research, regulatory support and ingredient applications. The combined business will also leverage Keragum's established sourcing network and relationships with Moroccan farming cooperatives to support responsible agricultural practices and improve traceability throughout the supply chain.

Olivier Houalla, chief operating officer of Nexira, said: "Keragum brings modern industrial capacity, a robust and traceable local sourcing network, and authentic expertise rooted in Moroccan agriculture. This is precisely the model we want to scale: building sustainable value chains, creating value at origin, and supporting agroforestry, biodiversity and local farming communities."

Founded in 1895, Nexira is a family-owned ingredients company specialising in botanical extracts and natural ingredients for the food, nutrition and health sectors. The business reported revenues of €221 million and operates six production sites and eight international subsidiaries, with products sold in more than 80 countries. It is also the global market leader in acacia fibre, holding more than 40% of worldwide market share.

The addition of Keragum expands Nexira's portfolio of plant-based functional ingredients at a time when food and beverage manufacturers continue to seek clean-label texturising solutions with secure, sustainable supply chains.