Barentz International, a global life science ingredients distributor, has acquired Viachem, a distributor of life science ingredients and specialty chemicals.
WHO: Viachem is an industry-leading specialty chemical, food additive, and ingredient distributor focused on redefining the distribution experience for both producers and customers. Through a unique sales and distribution model, Viachem provides its suppliers with a cost-effective channel to quickly grow their market share without incurring additional risk and resource commitments.
Barentz is a leading global life science ingredients distributor. The company sources branded specialty ingredients from leading manufacturers worldwide and its ingredient experts provide value-added technical support. Established in 1953, Barentz has operations in more than 60 countries with a strong presence in Europe and North America, and a rapidly growing network in Latin America and Asia-Pacific. With a turnover of €2.1 billion, the company employs around 2,000 people worldwide and serves over 22,000 customers.
WHY: The combination of Viachem's dedicated market research function and digitally enabled sales and marketing capabilities will provide a market growth engine for Barentz and its principal suppliers.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS: Hidde van der Wal, group CEO of Barentz, said, "Viachem has developed sales and marketing capabilities that are unique in the industry and we're thrilled to welcome Mike and his team into the Barentz organization. By combining these capabilities with Barentz' global scale, technical expertise and extensive digital infrastructure, we see significant opportunity to expand market share for our customers and principal suppliers."
Terry Hill, CEO of Barentz North America, commented, "Every successful acquisition begins with the people and we're excited for what the Viachem team will bring to Barentz. Since its founding, Viachem recognized that our industry is evolving and that best-in-class distributors need to develop new tools and processes in order to evolve in parallel with the industry. This transaction is a testament to Mike Efting's strategic vision and how that vision can be accelerated under Barentz."
Mike Efting, President and founder of Viachem, added: "Our vision at Viachem has always been to change the way chemicals and ingredients are bought and sold. When we set out to find the best long-term home for Viachem's employees, customers, and principals—while remaining true to our vision—we quickly identified that Barentz had all the attributes we were seeking. The entrepreneurial culture, commitment to digital tools, global scale, and a portfolio of synergistic product lines were a few of our requirements and Barentz checked every box. We are excited for what the future holds with Barentz."
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