Clariant, a sustainability-focused specialty chemical company, today announced that it has agreed to acquire Lucas Meyer Cosmetics, a leading provider of high value ingredients for the cosmetics and personal care industry, from International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) for a total cash consideration of USD 810 million.

The proposed transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions and is expected to close in the first quarter of 2024.

“The proposed acquisition of Lucas Meyer Cosmetics marks another major step forward for Clariant’s purpose-led growth strategy. It will strengthen our position as a true specialty chemical company, our exposure towards consumer markets, and our footprint in North America, while supporting our goal to accelerate customer- and sustainability-driven innovation. In addition, Lucas Meyer Cosmetics brings a highly experienced leadership team with an excellent track record”, said Conrad Keijzer, Chief Executive Officer of Clariant.

“By combining our personal care ingredients portfolio with Lucas Meyer Cosmetics, Clariant will become a leader in the high value cosmetic ingredients space, one of the most attractive, profitable, and fastest-growing specialty chemicals markets. With this step, we will build on our successful track record of pursuing and integrating bolt-on acquisitions to enable value creation and profitable growth.”

“Lucas Meyer Cosmetics represents a significant, exciting growth opportunity for Care Chemicals. It is a perfect fit with our business, given the complementarity of our customers and products. Combining our respective strengths, including the R&D and innovation capabilities of Lucas Meyer Cosmetics, backed by a strong brand, will enable us to deliver a strong increase in annual sales to USD 180 million in 2028 from around USD 100 million currently. We look forward to welcoming our new colleagues after closing and leveraging our respective capabilities, expertise, and passion,” said Christian Vang, President of the Clariant Business Unit Care Chemicals and the Americas region.

Given the strong strategic fit and high complementarity of the businesses, Clariant’s ambition is to grow Lucas Meyer Cosmetics’ annual sales from ~ USD 100 million to ~ USD 180 million by 2028.

The acquisition is expected to close in the first quarter of 2024.