Probios, a Florence-based organic food supplier, has recently acquired BiotoBio, another Italy-based supplier of organic foods, in a deal described as “transformational.” Majority-owned by private-equity firm Agreen Capital, Probios now boasts around 850 mostly branded lines with a focus on organic and gluten-free offerings.
The acquisition, which saw Probios acquire BiotoBio from major Italian organic-foods business EcorNaturaSì, also includes a minority stake in the enlarged Probios business for EcorNaturaSì. BiotoBio is known for its organic and free-from food products, including brands such as Baule Volante, Finestra sul Cielo, Fior di Loto, and Vivibio. The financial specifics of the deal were not disclosed, but Probios’ president, Andrea Rossi, mentioned that the acquisition has pushed the company’s revenue past the €100m ($108.2m) mark in just over a year.
Rossi expressed confidence in the deal, stating, “It significantly strengthens our group’s positioning within its target market by integrating brands of superior quality and potential. The prestigious names of our partners in this project and the strong interest demonstrated by several others reconfirm the strong focus on sustainability, ESG principles, and consumer wellness, all of which are the cornerstones of our investment strategy. We now aim for further industrial and international acquisitions.”
Founded in 1978, Probios operates in over 40 countries and has a subsidiary in Germany, Probios Deutschland. In addition to its retail offerings, the company provides a wholesale service through its Biostock brand, established in 2003, selling ingredients in bulk. Probios also operates Il Nutrimento, which specializes in processing fresh organic vegetables.
The acquisition of BiotoBio underscores Probios’ commitment to expanding its presence in the organic food market, aligning with key industry trends such as sustainability and consumer wellness. This strategic move positions Probios for further growth through industrial and international acquisitions in the food and beverage industry.