Dive Brief:
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Phosphate specialist Innophos said it wants to grow sales by $450 million through acquisitions in the food, health and nutrition markets during the next five years, according to Food Business News.
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The company wants to increase revenue to $1.25 billion by 2022, up more than 70% from $725 million in its most recent fiscal year. Innophos wants the share of its food, health and nutrition segment to increase to 75% of company sales from 52%.
- Innophos intends to target high-growth food ingredient sectors beyond phosphate, with a current shortlist of about 50 candidates, the company CEO Kim Ann Mink said recently.
Dive Insight:
Innophos has focused on high-margin specialty grade phosphates for processed meats, baked goods, dairy and beverages. However, it has largely steered clear of expansion into commoditized markets such as fertilizer and detergents. This has meant a large share of its sales comes from segments in which it is the biggest or second-biggest player.
The company could find acquisition opportunities in the nutrition sector, according to one Seeking Alpha analyst, with applications including vitamins, supplements, performance beverages and meal replacements.
Chief marketing and technology officer Sherry Duff hinted the company was considering the functional food and beverage market and makers of clean label and organic products, as well as the personal care and animal nutrition markets. The intention to diversify has been largely welcomed by analysts, as poor demand and import competition hit company profits back in 2015.
Innophos' plan to tap into the active and health-conscious consumers for growth is a smart move. And if the phosphate maker is going to travel out of its comfort zone, it's wise to take it slow and thoroughly review the pros and cons of each target. The company so far has narrowed down its list from 800 potential acquisition targets to 50. More cuts are expected as Innophos looks for deals that foster growth.