FFS: US flavour producer's merger with Lucta strengthens 'global presence'

US-based Flavor and Fragrance Specialties (FFS) has announced that it has merged with ingredients company Lucta.The Spanish firm is the world leader in flavours for animal feed additives and also produces flavours for leading brands in the beverage, confectionery and savoury markets. The merger will bolster FFS' current product portfolio, which includes flavours for coffees and fragrances for households, pet care, air care and personal care.Both companies were keen to stress that existing personnel and infrastructure would remain in place.FFS said: "This merger expands both companies' global footprint; customers will now have an opportunity to utilize manufacturing centers serving Asia Pacific, Europe, South and Latin America as well as North America."The company's president, Mike Bloom, added: "[With this merger,] we gain an expanded global presence, expertise in R&D, sales and customer service while all current management, personnel, systems, sales offices and facilities shall remain intact."Yesterday, Israeli flavours and ingredients company Frutarom acquired Spanish natural extracts producer Ingrenat in a deal worth up to €8m.