Oterra acquires Akay Group

Natural colour supplier Oterra has acquired Akay Group, an Indian company that produces natural colours and nutraceutical ingredients.

The Kerala-based company employs 400 people and has four manufacturing sites in southern India. Akay and Oterra have had a long relationship, previously operating in joint partnership until the mid-2000s.

“We’re very happy to join the Oterra family,” said Dr Balu Maliakel, Managing Director, Akay. “We have a fond shared history that has left a significant imprint on our business understanding and culture, and we share many of the same values. I am very confident that Oterra’s innovative mindset will bring great value to Akay’s customers. In many ways, this is like a homecoming for us.”

Odd Erik Hansen, CEO, Oterra, said, “In recent years, Akay has successfully transitioned from a pure colours and flavours business to a leading science-backed botanical ingredients business. We both believe in bringing the best of nature to the world, and we’re happy to welcome the team at Akay to Oterra. We look forward to working together to serve our customers in the future.”

This is Oterra’s fourth acquisition in 14 months and follows from the company changing its name from Chr. Hansen Natural Colours in 2021.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Евгения Мурашова