German supplier of flavourings and functional ingredients Symrise is expanding into Britain’s beverage market by acquiring UK-based supplier of processed fruit and vegetable juices Cobell.

The acquisition is expected to enhance Symrise’s presence and customer proximity. The companies have not divulged financial details of the transaction, which is expected to close by July this year.

Symrise's flavour segment European, African, and Middle East (EAME) president Dirk Bennwitz said: "The Group is firmly anchored in the British market and operates with extremely high customer orientation.

“In recent years, we have seen increased demand for innovative beverage solutions. Together with Cobell, we prepare the ground for accelerated growth and expand our footprint.

“By combining Cobell’s impressive application and manufacturing capacities with our strong portfolio of natural flavours and our joint technological know how we will become a driving force.

“In addition, we will significantly enhance our customer proximity and act as a single source for beverage ingredients and formulations in Great Britain.”

"Together we will be able to significantly increase our offering and differentiate ourselves in the market with tailor-made solutions that fully respond to local consumer needs."

For more than five decades, Symrise has been active in the UK market by supplying its products to the food and beverage industry.

With a workforce of nearly 56 people, Cobell’s manufacturing facilities are engaged in the production of a wide range of products that include juices, purees, cordials, concentrates, and alcoholic drinks.

Cobell chairman and founder Nick Sprague said: "We are delighted to have found a strong new owner for Cobell. Symrise shares the same mindset culturally and from a business perspective.

“Cobell will benefit from Symrise’s strong access to an impressive range of natural ingredients, as well as additional technologies, such as in taste modulation. Symrise, on the other hand, will be able to enhance its local supply chain and benefit from Cobell’s specialist sourcing and global supply base.

“Together we will be able to significantly increase our offering and differentiate ourselves in the market with tailor-made solutions that fully respond to local consumer needs.”

Upon completion of the deal, Symrise intends to run Cobell’s activities under the Cobell brand.

Image: Symrise enters the UK’s beverage market by acquiring Cobell. Photo: courtesy of Symrise.