Kerry Group to acquire two US ingredients businesses
Ariake USA, the North American division of Ariake Japan Co., and Southeastern Mills North American coatings and seasonings business are to be acquired for a total of for a total of €325m (£292m). Both acquisitions are subject to customary closing conditions and Kerry is expected to finance the deals using existing lines of credit.
A Kerry statement said: “These acquisitions further enhance the Group's foundational technology portfolio, as well as strengthening its foodservice positioning in line with strategic growth priorities.”
Ariake USA produces natural clean label savoury taste solutions derived from poultry, pork and vegetables at its facility in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Ariake USA's extraction technologies and development capabilities produce a suite of tailored solutions across a number of end use markets.
It is hoped this acquisition will further enhances Kerry's authentic taste and clean label portfolio, whilst also complementing its from-food-for-food heritage.
SEM manufactures coatings and seasonings at its strategically located manufacturing base in Rome, Georgia. This acquisition is expected to complement Kerry's taste portfolio and further develop its industry leading offering into the meat end use market.
In October, Kerry agreed to acquire US ingredients business Fleischmann’s Vinegar Company and sauce supplier AATCO Food Industries.
