Novus acquires enzyme maker to expand innovation pipeline

In addition to assimilating BRI's existing product portfolio, Novus, a prominent methionine manufacturer, will assume control of the company's facilities in North Carolina.

BRI's extensive product range includes protease feed additives, xylanase feed enzymes, mannanase enzymes, granulated thermostable microbial 6-phytase enzymes, and direct-fed microbials, among others.

Novus and BRI have had a partnership since 2008 when Novus became the exclusive worldwide marketer for BRI's patented enzyme technologies.

Giles Shih, CEO of BRI, called the deal an exciting new chapter for the company, founded by him and his father 25 years ago. In a social media post, he emphasized that the acquisition is not merely a business transaction but a pivotal moment that expands BRI's goal of providing science-based technology for animal health and nutrition.

As part of the transition, Shih announced his departure from the firm.

Strategic deal ​

Novus's chief executive, Dan Meagher, outlined the Missouri company's strategic priorities, which include further investment in functional proteins and the gut health segment, portfolio expansion, and achieving enhanced control over the supply chain. Meagher also noted that the BRI deal will augment Novus's capabilities to develop innovative products in the fermentation space.

In a bid to differentiate itself in the marketplace, Novus, under Meagher's leadership since 2020, has been focusing on core businesses, technologies, and competencies, divesting non-core platforms. The executive team has actively worked on strengthening the development pipeline by incorporating new technologies.

Speaking to this publication in June last year, the CEO highlighted the INTERIUS platform, acquired through the Agrivida deal in early 2023, as a revolutionary tool capable of transforming the industry by expressing high-value, functional proteins inside grains. This approach, he outlined, aims to provide new products that are not only sustainable environmentally but also operationally.