ISTANBUL, TURKEY — Cargill’s animal nutrition business has agreed terms to acquire a majority stake in Ekol Gida, a company operating in premix and feed additives markets in Turkey, Cargill said on May 27. The deal, which is subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to close in summer 2015.

“Customers will gain access to Cargill’s extended product portfolio and technical expertise for an enhanced experience,” said Mark Poeschl, vice-president and group director of Cargill’s animal nutrition business. “The commercial focus will be on Turkey and selected export markets.”

“We are proud for Ekol Gida to make this significant step together with Cargill. The deal will leverage our established customer network in premixes, feed additives and our profound market knowledge. The management team will remain committed to continue serving our existing customer base,” said Serhad Celik, Ekol Gida’s general manager and one of its founding shareholders.

The transaction is aligned with Cargill’s animal nutrition business’ growth strategy, the company said. In addition to retaining Ekol Gida’s products and services, and customer base, Cargill will strengthen its commitment to Turkey as a primary growth market by building technical applications centers for poultry and dairy. This will allow for global research & development competence to boost local market capabilities and enhance innovation, Cargill said.

After a transitional period, the business will operate under the global Provimi brand in the market.

Ekol Gida, established in 1998, is one of the leading companies in premixes and feed additives markets. Ekol Gida, with headquarters in Istanbul, also has sales teams located in ?stanbul, Ankara, Adana, ?zmir, Tekirda? and Afyon.