 |
| David MacLennan, chairman and chief executive officer of Cargill. |
Cedar Rapids, Iowa, U.S.-based Diamond V has a 75-year history for developing research-proven immune support technologies that work naturally with the biology of the animal to strengthen the immune system and promote a healthy digestive system to enhance animal health, animal performance and food safety.
The purchase will encompass all of Diamond V’s business, including the human health business, Embria Health Sciences, and its branded product EpiCor. Diamond V’s headquarters will remain in Cedar Rapids and the Diamond V brand will be the platform for future investments in natural solutions for safer animal food production.
“I am excited about what Diamond V and Cargill can accomplish together,” said Jeff Cannon, president and CEO of Diamond V. “This acquisition is an investment in the well-being of animals — and ultimately, in people.”
Cargill said that the investment will enable its animal nutrition business to better serve customers who are increasingly turning to unique natural technologies to unlock the potential in feed to promote healthier animals, improve performance and to help them produce safer more wholesome food. The company also noted that natural immune support products in animal feed — like natural health supplements for people — are increasingly being used to improve immunity and digestive health.
“Diamond V is a tremendous company with deep scientific expertise and a highly respected global brand,” said Chuck Warta, president of Cargill’s premix and nutrition business. “Adding Diamond V’s leading talent and technology as well as its applications for sustainable protein production, will enable us to deliver improved profitability and performance for our customers. Together, Cargill and Diamond V will accelerate the pace of innovation and drive strategic, long-term growth.”
This acquisition, which follows Cargill’srecent investment in Delacon, the global leader in natural, plant-based phytogenic additives, will give Cargill market-leading participation in the $20 billion global animal feed additives market, as well as world-class technical, regulatory and R&D capabilities and go-to-market strength in approximately 70 countries worldwide.
Cargill has built its nutritional expertise over decades through its animal nutrition business and the new acquisition will continue to enhance the company’s capabilities. Diamond V focuses on immune function and digestive health, critical components that will help customers improve the well-being of their animals and the safety of the food supply. Through its commitment to innovation, technology and quality, Diamond V has earned a global reputation of trust and reliability in the animal nutrition industry and is recognized as a leader in food safety, Cargill said.
“Cargill and Diamond V will expand and create new world-class natural health technologies that will provide unique opportunities for customers and consumers alike,” Cannon said. “Adding Cargill’s vast resources and global reach to Diamond V’s industry-leading practitioners, scientists, and technical experts, will allow the new organization to provide world-class, innovative technologies and solutions to the global animal health and nutrition industry.”
Terms of the deal were not disclosed. The transaction is expected to close in January 2018, subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions.
Cargill’s animal nutrition business has more than 20,000 employees at more than 275 facilities in 40 countries. It offers a range of products and services to feed manufacturers, animal producers, and feed retailers around the world. Some of the products it offers are a range of compound feed, premixes, feed additives, supply chain and risk management solutions and software tools.
