Eastman buys Spanish feed additives player, acquires production facility

Founded in 2003, 3F Feed & Food produces preservatives and acidifiers, liquids and powders dedicated to the hygiene, preservation and safety of feedstuffs and animal health nutraceuticals.

It is well-established in one of the leading European markets, said Sabine Ketsman, vice president and general manager, care chemicals and animal nutrition. "We look forward to combining our respective talented teams and expanding their proven model of success."  ​

3F's business and assets will become part of the specialty material company’s additives and functional products segment.

Sandeep Bangaru, general manager, animal nutrition, Eastman, said the deal sees the company ​extend its specialty product portfolio in products targeting improved gut health in monogastrics and increases its application development capabilities, both of which "will enable us to accelerate growth of key markets and customers."​

As well as expanding Eastman’s product portfolio, the acquisition gives the US group a production facility located in Avila, Spain, in-house application and development capabilities, and technical service capabilities, added Bangaru.

Higher farm productivity 

Eastman also flagged 3F's portfolio of specialized organic acid derivatives and phytogenics as proven to help customers adapt and to deliver improved animal productivity and resiliency, key in an era of increased focus on sustainability, higher farm productivity, reduced emissions and a shift away from antibiotic growth promoters and other materials of concern in diets.

Juan Galvez del Hierro, 3F chief executive officer, said: "As we integrate with Eastman, the future of 3F Feed & Food is greatly strengthened by both the attractive business expansion and growth opportunities across Europe, as well as development opportunities for our employees."​

He said the combination of Eastman's chemical expertise, together with 3F's R&D skills and vast experience with specific applications in animal nutrition and health, will increase the product offering of new molecules that can be successfully deployed to a market that is in continuous search of new solutions to enable sustainable animal health and productivity.

Headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, US, Eastman reported revenues of around US$8.5bn in 2020.