1 Feb 2010 --- Driven by sustained demand for natural products and ingredients and despite a difficult economic backdrop, Naturex once again proved its ability to generate rapid organic growth in 2009. Consolidated revenues for the year amounted to € 101.9 million, up 9.4% on 2008. At constant scope and in constant currencies, yearly sales for the Group increased 5.5% in line with the ambitious growth target set at the start of the financial year.

In 2009, Nutrition & Health accounted for 64.7% of activity, Food & Beverage for 29.1% and Personal Care for 1.5%. Sales by geographical region broke down as follows: 59.8% for North America, 30.4% for the European Union and 3.2% for the Asia/Pacific region.

Naturex’s growth prospects have been further enhanced by the integration of the Ingredients division of Natraceutical Group, which was approved by the Annual General Meeting of December 30, 2009. The consolidation of the revenues of the Group’s new subsidiaries from January 1, 2010, will allow for a better balance in sales, both by geographical region and by sector of activity. As a result of the operation, Naturex now ranks as the global leader in specialty plant-based natural ingredients for the food, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.

In accordance with the terms and conditions of the contribution agreement, the final acquisition price will be determined in April 2010. Naturex will therefore publish its results (consolidated and proforma) for financial year 2009 on April 30. Bolstered by its strong commercial performance, the Group has confirmed its target improvement in operating margin.
 
Following the integration of the Ingredients division of Natraceutical Group which was approved by the Annual General Meeting of December 30, 2009, Naturex now ranks as the global leader in specialty plant-based natural ingredients.