Novonesis has signed an agreement with the intent to acquire MicroBioGen, an Australian biotechnology company with leading scientific expertise in yeast strains for industrial applications, particularly in bioethanol. The Novonesis MicroBioGen acquisition builds on the company’s 2013 investment in MicroBioGen and its current 23 percent stake, further strengthening a decade-long collaboration in advanced yeast solutions for bioethanol production.
“This acquisition marks an additional step in our 2030 strategy,” said Ester Baiget, CEO of Novonesis. “It strengthens our yeast capabilities, strengthens our R&D capabilities and reflects our disciplined investment focus to drive growth.”
As a pure-play biology company, Novonesis combines deep scientific expertise in microbiology and industrial fermentation with approximately 10 percent of annual sales investment in innovation. The Novonesis MicroBioGen acquisition builds on this foundation, strengthening core expertise in biological solutions.
“We see MicroBioGen as a perfect match building on more than a decade of close collaboration, and we look forward to integrating their technology into Novonesis,” said Claus Crone Fuglsang, Chief Scientific Officer of Novonesis. “With the acquisition, we will continue to strengthen our capabilities and develop the biosolutions our customers need.”
As part of the agreement, Novonesis will continue to support MicroBioGen’s existing partners and ensure continuity in its collaborations. Geoffrey Bell, CEO and Co-founder of MicroBioGen, said: “Joining Novonesis is a strong fit for MicroBioGen and its employees. After more than a decade of close collaboration, we could not think of a better home for the company.”
The terms of the transaction will not be disclosed, and completion of the transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals, including by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
