Certified Group acquired by Mérieux NutriSciences

Structured as an all‑cash acquisition, Mérieux NutriSciences takes control of Certified Group, adding a revenue of $250–500M to its portfolio. The deal is financed primarily through a cash‑in transaction, complemented by a fresh equity contribution from Peugeot Invest, which becomes a minority shareholder and secures a seat on the board alongside Continental Grain Company. Existing shareholders, Institut Mérieux, Dassault Group and Sofina, also reinvest, preserving the current ownership structure. The transaction does not involve debt financing and therefore does not alter the target’s balance‑sheet leverage. Closing is expected in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to customary conditions. Strategically, the acquisition deepens Mérieux NutriSciences’ presence in the North American food testing, inspection and certification market, the world’s largest TIC segment. By integrating Certified Group’s network of laboratories and its expertise across food, cosmetics, dietary supplements and reduced‑harm nicotine products, the combined entity will offer a broader service suite and faster turnaround for customers located across the United States and Canada. The North American food‑TIC market alone exceeds $2.5 billion, providing ample room for organic and inorganic growth. This expanded footprint aligns with Mérieux NutriSciences’ long‑term ambition to become the leading provider of food safety and quality solutions in the region, leveraging cross‑selling opportunities and reinforcing its resilience amid rising regulatory scrutiny and consumer demand for traceability. The involvement of Peugeot Invest reflects its renewed private‑equity focus on high‑growth, defensible sectors such as food safety, following a recent strategic shift after prior portfolio challenges. By backing the acquisition, the investor not only provides capital but also brings governance expertise that is expected to support the integration process and future growth initiatives, underscoring confidence in the long‑term cash‑generating potential of the combined platform.

By taking control of Certified Group, Mérieux NutriSciences continues its expansion strategy. Previously, the group had completed 2 acquisitions, including Zinia in 2026.