JBT acquires Avure Technologies in US

JBT, a global company that offers technology solutions to the food and beverage industry, has purchased Avure Technologies, a US-based company that offers high-pressure processing (HPP) systems.

HPP is a cold pasteurisation technology, which ensures food safety without using heat or additional preservatives to maintain characteristics of the fresh food such as flavour and nutritional value, and extending the shelf life of the product.

The technology company is reported to have paid $57m for this acquisition, before customary post-closing adjustments.

Headquartered in Erlanger, Kentucky, Avure has its manufacturing facility located in Middletown, Ohio, US.

JBT FoodTech president Steve Smith said: "We are excited about the rapidly expanding market adoption of HPP across protein and liquid foods.

"With the addition of Avure, JBT will be able to offer comprehensive thermal and non-thermal preservation solutions."

The company also anticipates that the new acquisition could add to its annual revenue by nearly $50m.

JBT chairman president and chief executive officer Tom Giacomini said: "As part of JBT, Avure will benefit from our global salesforce, service support and extensive customer relationships, as well as our commitment to developing solutions that maximise customer profitability."

Primarily focused on the proteins and liquid foods, JBT has been developing products and systems for its global, as well as regional customers through its FoodTech segment.