US-based food processing and commodities trading company Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) has agreed to acquire European natural citrus flavour ingredients provider Ziegler Group for an undisclosed sum.

Established in 1963, Ziegler is a German firm that is engaged in the production of citrus oils, extracts, concentrates and compounds for flavour, food and beverage industries.

The company uses cold concentration technologies to manufacture its products that are distributed in the US, Europe and Japanese markets.

The agreement to acquire Ziegler follows ADM’s recent acquisition of US-based citrus flavour provider Florida Chemical.

ADM Nutrition business president Vince Macciocchi said: “Ziegler is highly respected as a cutting-edge leader in citrus, and we’re excited to welcome their outstanding leadership and talent to ADM.

“The combination of Ziegler and Florida Chemical will immediately position ADM for growth as a global leader in natural citrus ingredients, with a complete range of innovative citrus solutions and systems for food, beverage and fragrance customers.

“Citrus is one of the fastest-growing, highest-demand flavours for food and beverages, which is why the creation of a global citrus platform offering a complete product line for our customers is such an important capability for our growth strategy.”

Subject to regulatory approval, the deal is expected to be completed in the second quarter of this year.

Ziegler Group official Günter Ziegler said: “We are delighted that we found a strong home at ADM wher both our business and our people can grow.

“The integration of more than 50 years of citrus expertise into the ADM group will secure our top priority: successful long-term growth for our business and our employees. Our family members will be staying with the company to help ensure a smooth transition.”