Today, Novozymes and Chr. Hansen have entered into an agreement to create a leading global biosolutions partner through a statutory merger of the two companies. The combination is

expected to unleash the full potential of biological solutions and generate significant value for all stakeholders and society at large.

 

The proposed combination of Novozymes A/S and Chr. Hansen Holding A/S will create a strong biosolutions group with a broad biological toolbox and a diversified portfolio across markets. Uniting two strategically complementary biosolutions companies will accelerate their already best-in-class performance.

 

Novozymes and Chr. Hansen together will meet customers’ growing demands for efficient, scalable, and sustainable biosolutions. The combined group will have a global talent pool of

diverse and passionate employees who will benefit from its strong purpose-driven culture, expanded global presence and shared ambition to provide answers to the biggest challenges

facing society. Together, the combined group will be equipped to stand stronger in addressing global challenges including enabling healthier lives, transforming food systems, and accelerating towards a climate neutral society.

 

Novo Holdings A/S, the largest shareholder in both Novozymes and Chr.Hansen, has affirmed its confidence in the two companies being a perfect match, and that a transaction would create a global leader in biosolutions that would capitalize on attractive growth opportunities while serving societal needs.

 

Ester Baiget, President and CEO of Novozymes said: “The combination of two strategically complementary companies with a shared purpose and advanced capabilities will show the world the true power of biosolutions. Novozymes and Chr. Hansen share the strong conviction that our combined scale, know-how, commercial strengths, and innovation excellence will drive value for our customers, employees and society at large by providing the sustainable solutions the world so urgently needs.”

 

Mauricio Graber, President and CEO of Chr. Hansen added: “I’m proud to share that Novozymes and Chr. Hansen are proposing to join forces to create a Danish-based global biosolutions partner based on our strong complementary technology platforms, highly dedicated employees and customer-centric approaches. Building on shared purpose-driven values and cultures, as well as an unquestionable business rationale, the proposed combination of these two iconic Danish companies represents a natural next step towards addressing the needs of tomorrow.”

 

Kasim Kutay, CEO of Novo Holdings, said: “As long-term shareholders in both Novozymes and Chr. Hansen, we are in full support of the plans to combine the two companies. We have confidence that Novozymes and Chr. Hansen are a perfect match, and that this transaction will create a unique global leader in biosolutions that will capitalize on attractive growth opportunities while serving societal needs.”