Robertet pairs up botanical knowhow with Ecom purchase

Initiated by Conexus Capital Advisors, the deal looks to bring on board Ecom’s expertise in specific botanical-based ingredients that include its rosemary-based antioxidant, Rosemarox as well as its organic botanical range. Financial details of the purchase have not been disclosed.

“The Ecom client and product portfolio perfectly complements Robertet’s own and we look forward to combining the strengths of both organisations to better serve consumer needs,” ​comments Philippe Maubert, Chairman of the Robertet Group.

“Our DNA is a product line consistent with all natural, botanically sourced ingredients and value-added products to suit consumer needs. Ecom fits perfectly within this strategy and we look forward to welcoming Ecom into the Robertet family.”  ​

5-year business strategy​

The purchase represents another step in Robertet’s 2020/2025 strategy that seeks to continue developing its Health & Beauty Division.

According to Maubert, significant investments will be made in Grasse, where Robertet is based, and  internationally, combined with developments in countries with potential, in order to strengthen its positions and contribute to the Group's progress.

In 2020, Robertet made good on its word by entering a joint venture​​ with US hemp cultivation and extraction firm Klersun and Swiss CBD producer Alponics.

Speaking about the decision to focus on Swiss-made hemp extracts Maubert said, “The first reason is that our partner Alponics is based out of Switzerland and has fields and greenhouses there as well as an extraction facility. ​

“The second reason is linked to CBD regulation. Switzerland is well regulated for CBD but there is more flexibility compared to the French market, for instance.”​

New encapsulation tech​

The prior year saw Robertet make available a novel encapsulation technology, which uses the prebiotic inulin as a carrier, transporting essential oils into powders for improved absorption.

Called Natur-Cell the technology works by enabling the use of essential oils in nutraceuticals providing a clean label solution as well as an alternative to softgels.

Softgels are considered best capable of handling essential oils in this form but often have long lead time and high minimum order quantity.

The technology is suitable for all health categories, but the prebiotic inulin carrier means it is especially relevant for sports nutrition and digestive supplements.