Otsuka Beverage Co also holds a stake in Alma, holding company of the Castel Group, which owns the successful French bottled water brand Cristaline.
The acquisition of Nutrition & Santé, with its strong presence in the European functional and dietetic foods market, is expected to provide Otsuka Pharmaceutical with an important platform to develop its nutraceutical business in Europe and to develop its global operating presence, the company said.
“In Europe, N&S has a proven track record of developing new markets through creating many unique products which help consumers to maintain a healthy lifestyle,” said Taro Iwamoto, president and representative director of Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co. “N&S and Otsuka Pharmaceutical share both a passion for the everyday health of consumers as well as a wealth of experience, which will aid us in taking our nutraceutical business to the next level.”
Didier Suberbielle, CEO of Nutrition & Santé, said: “We’re very glad and honoured to join the Otsuka Pharmaceutical group. We will collaborate, innovate and drive together the nutraceutical business in Europe.”
Nutrition & Santé, which is headquartered in Revel, France, is a leader in the European dietary foods market through activities in functional foods (Gerblé and Céréal), slimming products (Gerlinéa, Pesoforma and Milical), sports nutrition (Isostar), and other nutritional specialties.
The firm’s 2007 turnover increased 10% to €260m. The company has a workforce of 950.
The Otsuka Pharmaceutical Group comprises 104 companies and employs approximately 31,000 people in 18 countries and regions worldwide.
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