Ethica Group, through its M&A Advisory team, assisted GFF S.r.l., a leading Italian producer of flavors and essences for the food industry, in the acquisition of Real Aromi Flavours Division, a business unit of ILLVA Saronno S.p.A., active in the production of natural extracts from spices and botanicals.
Founded in the 1950s, Real Aromi Flavours Division has experienced growth over time both organically and through the integration of external business lines, developing a broad and high-quality portfolio of extracts and natural products. These results have been made possible by highly automated extraction and purification facilities, as well as an in-house laboratory that, thanks to sophisticated control systems, ensures consistent product quality over time. Its continuously evolving range is used in numerous end products, including baked goods, confectionery, dairy products, wine & spirits, sauces and dressings, as well as in the nutraceutical sector.
This transaction is part of GFF’s broader strategic development path and is aimed at strengthening and expanding its market positioning through the integration of a complementary customer portfolio and innovative, high value-added solutions. In particular, the acquired business unit will enable the Company to increase its presence among industrial clients and strengthen its position in specific market segments, leveraging established commercial relationships and an offering fully aligned with GFF’s positioning. The integration of the activities into GFF will be carried out with a strong focus on continuity in customer relationships and service levels, ensuring a smooth and disruption-free transition for both customers and employees.
Enrico Giotti, CEO and founder of GFF, stated: “This acquisition represents a significant step in GFF’s growth journey. The integration of a strategic and complementary customer portfolio allows us to strengthen our market presence and further expand our ability to respond effectively and comprehensively to customer needs. We will ensure full continuity in relationships and service, supporting customers throughout this integration phase with the utmost attention and quality, characteristics that have always distinguished our DNA.”
Pietro Macchiarella, Head of M&A and Business Development at Illva Saronno, commented: “This transaction reinforces our corporate strategy of simplification and focus on the Group’s core assets. In order to preserve our competitive advantage, we will continue to retain our distinctive know-how and technological facilities in-house, enabling us to continue developing extracts while focusing exclusively on production in support of the Beverage and Ingredients businesses.”
