Firmenich, the world's leading privately-owned fragrance and flavor company, has reached an agreement with First Eagle Investment Management to acquire the stake held by its customers in Robertet, representing around 17% of the capital1, at a price of 683.30 euros per share2.
"Firmenich has the utmost respect for Robertet, its family values, its long-term vision and its cutting-edge expertise in natural ingredients," said Patrick Firmenich, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Firmenich, "This investment reflects Firmenich's commitment to supporting Robertet's growth over the long term."
"With its portfolio of natural-origin products for perfumery, flavors and ingredients, Robertet is ideally positioned to meet growing consumer demand for more naturalness," said Gilbert Ghostine, Firmenich's CEO, "This investment in one of the leaders in natural is perfectly in line with our group's medium-term strategy."
Firmenich is prepared to remain a long-term passive minority shareholder in Robertet alongside the Maubert family. Firmenich is also willing to discuss amicably a possible increase in its shareholding, and also ready to build a closer collaboration to support the long-term success of the company. If offered, Firmenich could also consider taking a controlling stake in Robertet.
Firmenich has filed a declaration of intention and threshold crossing with the AMF in accordance with applicable regulations.
A