Nexira Enhances Carob Supply Chain with Keragum Acquisition
Nexira, a prominent French supplier of natural ingredients, has announced the acquisition of Keragum, a Moroccan specialist in carob production. This acquisition is aimed at bolstering Nexira's capabilities in the global market for plant-based texturising ingredients and aligns with its Ambitions 2030 growth strategy. The financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed.
Keragum is recognized for its production of locust bean gum (LBG), a widely used clean-label hydrocolloid. LBG is essential in providing texture and stability to products like dairy, plant-based foods, ice cream, and nutraceuticals. Keragum operates a modern production facility near Casablanca and collaborates with local cooperatives in Morocco, a leading region for carob production.
This acquisition marks a significant step for Nexira, which has been expanding its carob portfolio since 2021. By integrating Keragum's operations, Nexira aims to enhance supply chain resilience, improve traceability, and secure long-term access to high-quality carob raw materials. Mathieu Dondain, Nexira's vice president and CEO, emphasized the importance of investing close to production to secure raw materials and create local value.
The acquisition reflects a broader industry trend where manufacturers are investing in upstream capabilities to ensure supply security amidst rising demand for natural, plant-based ingredients. Locust bean gum has gained importance for clean-label formulations, serving various applications from plant-based alternatives to frozen desserts and dietary supplements.
Nexira has stated that Keragum's production capabilities complement its own expertise in scientific research, regulatory support, and ingredient applications. The combined business will leverage Keragum's established sourcing network and relationships with Moroccan farming cooperatives to support sustainable agricultural practices and improve traceability across the supply chain.
Olivier Houalla, Nexira's chief operating officer, highlighted that Keragum provides modern industrial capacity and a robust local sourcing network. This acquisition supports Nexira's model of building sustainable value chains and fostering agroforestry, biodiversity, and local farming communities.
Founded in 1895, Nexira is a family-owned company, a market leader in acacia fiber, and operates six production sites globally. With the addition of Keragum, Nexira continues to expand its portfolio of plant-based functional ingredients, catering to the demand for secure and sustainable supply chains in the food and beverage industry.
