M&As this week: IFF, Barry Callebaut Group, Calbee

International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) has acquired Frutarom for $7.1bn.

US-based IFF is a leading innovator of sensorial experiences, while Frutarom is a producer and distributor of flavours, savoury solutions, and natural ingredients.

The transaction enables IFF to enter new and fast-growing categories such as savoury solutions, natural colours, natural food protection, and health ingredients.

The merged company will operate from its headquarters in New York City, as well as a presence in Israel.

It will offer natural health and wellness products, expand its customer base including small- to mid-sized businesses, and set up an improved platform to deliver sustainable growth.

Barry Callebaut Group has agreed to acquire Inforum for an undisclosed sum.

Based in Switzerland, Barry Callebaut Group manufactures chocolate and cocoa products, while Inforum is a producer of industrial chocolate, covertures, compound coatings, and fillings in Russia.

The transaction enables Barry Callebaut Group to expand its footprint in Russia, as well as allow the firm to improve its production capacity and further penetrate CIS country and export markets.

Inforum employees will become part of Barry Callebaut Group upon completion of the acquisition.

Calbee has acquired 100% shares in Seabrook Crisps for an undisclosed amount.

Seabrook will be owned by Calbee UK and operate as an independent entity upon completion of the deal.

Japan-based Calbee is a snack food manufacturer, while Seabrook Crisps is a British producer of crisps.

The acquisition enables Calbee to fortify its business in the UK snack market, as well as expand in Europe.

Peak Rock Capital has completed the acquisition of Louisiana Fish Fry Products for an undisclosed sum.

Peak Rock Capital is a private equity and venture capital firm, while Louisiana Fish Fry is a producer and supplier of Cajun cuisine products.

Both companies are based in the US.

Plukka Limited has agreed to acquire 100% stake in The Food Box Australia Pty Ltd and The Foodbox Shanghai Limited for A$5.8m ($4.14m).

The Food Box Australia and The Foodbox Shanghai are collectively called The Food Box, which is an online/offline food and beverage marketing and sales service platform.

Azure Capital Ltd is the corporate adviser and Bellanhouse Lawyers is the legal adviser to Plukka for the transaction.