Mérieux NutriSciences is bringing in Peugeot Invest and Continental Grain Company (Conti) as strategic minority investors to fund its intended purchase of Certified Group and to back the food‑testing firm’s next stage of global expansion.
The investments are still pending standard regulatory clearances, and the financial details have not been made public.
Institut Mérieux will stay the majority shareholder, and current long‑term investors such as Sofina and Dassault Group will maintain their backing.
Following the completion of the Certified Group deal, Peugeot Invest and Conti are slated to obtain seats on Mérieux NutriSciences’ board.
Certified Group produces roughly $300 million in revenue and runs 31 labs throughout North America.
Acquiring it will broaden Mérieux NutriSciences’ presence in the North American food testing, inspection and certification market, a sector the company values at over $2.5 billion.
The transaction will also enhance the firm’s lab footprint, enabling more localized and rapid testing services.
Certified adds further know‑how in animal protein, dairy and packaged foods, as well as related areas such as cosmetics, health supplements, OTC drugs and reduced‑harm nicotine products.
Mérieux NutriSciences views the merger as a step toward building a broader global platform that covers scientific testing, regulatory know‑how and customer services.
For Peugeot Invest and Conti, the deal provides exposure to the TIC industry, driven by regulatory mandates and rising expectations for food safety and quality.
Conti also contributes over two hundred years of experience investing in and running food and agriculture enterprises.
KEY QUOTES:
“We are delighted to partner with Institut Mérieux to support Mérieux NutriSciences in this new phase of growth in North America.”
Jean-Charles Douin, CEO of Peugeot Invest
“Mérieux NutriSciences has built a preeminent TIC platform, rooted in scientific excellence, deep technical expertise, and trusted customer relationships.”
Ari Gendason, Co-CEO of Conti
“Their investment marks an important step in our development and reinforces our ability to execute our long-term growth ambitions.”
