About the deal

Investec advised Bureau Veritas in the sale of its food testing activity to Mérieux NutriSciences

Bureau Veritas’ food testing activity encompasses a global network of 34 laboratories specialized in microbiological and chemical testing for the food sector, primarily operating across the Americas, Africa, and Asia-Pacific. With over 1,900 technicians, this division provides critical services to ensure the quality and safety of food products for its clients.

This transaction aligns with Bureau Veritas’ LEAP | 28 strategy, which focuses the company’s portfolio on high-value strategic segments and provides Bureau Veritas with more flexibility to implement its ambitious acquisition plan.

Sold to Mérieux NutriSciences, the global leader in testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) services in the food industry, for an enterprise value of €360 million, the business will benefit from a new strategic momentum under the leadership of this global player. With this acquisition, Mérieux NutriSciences strengthens its geographic coverage, consolidates its presence on key continents, and enhances its ability to address global food safety and sustainability challenges.

The deal marks a significant strategic repositioning for both companies in a context where food safety and sustainability are becoming global priorities.

What we did

Investec provided comprehensive support to Bureau Veritas throughout the entire carve-out process. This included coordinating all project stakeholders, both internal and external, defining a tailored deal strategy to maximize value, and proactively anticipating carve-out issues to mitigate risks. Investec also prepared detailed marketing materials and played an active role in negotiating both value and conditions with the prospective buyer. Additionally, the team managed the comprehensive due diligence process, ensuring all requirements were met, and oversaw the preparation and finalization of legal documentation to coordinate several closings on a region-by-region basis.