WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. — Corbion nv has completed the acquisition of Bunge Ltd.’s 49.9% interest in SB Renewable Oils, a joint venture that operates a facility in Brazil specializing in the production of algae ingredients, such as omega-3 rich oil, for aquaculture and animal feed. Corbion now is 100% owner of the plant in Orindiúva, which employs around 170 staff.
“We are delighted to welcome the team in Orindiúva as part of our global family,” said Tjerk de Ruiter, chief executive officer of Corbion. “They are a pivotal part of our Algae Ingredients business, the innovative platform we acquired last year. We are strongly committed to developing this line of business.”
As part of the transaction, Corbion has assumed Bunge’s share in the external debt of the joint venture, including accrued interest of 57 million reals ($15 million), and has repaid Bunge’s working capital loan of 29 million reals ($8 million). Additionally, a 5-year earn-out provision starting in 2021 has been agreed to. The earn-out is based on sales of AlgaPrime DHA, with a maximum present value of $20 million.
The SB Renewable Oils plant is located adjacent to one of Bunge’s sugar mills. Long-term supply agreements have been secured regarding sugar and utilities. Approval by the relevant regulatory bodies in Brazil has been obtained.