Media release: Clayton Utz advises Mérieux NutriSciences on the acquisition of Bureau Veritas' food testing business

04 Jun 2025
1 minute

In a global transaction valued at EUR €360 million (AUD $630 million), Clayton Utz has advised Mérieux NutriSciences Corporation (MXNS) on the Australian aspects of its acquisition of Bureau Veritas' food testing business. The Australian aspects of the business were a strategically important aspect of the global transaction and subject to ACCC merger review, and ultimately not opposed.

MXNS, a world leader in food safety, quality, and sustainability, offers practical testing, auditing, consulting, certification and research solutions for the food industry, and has a network of over 100 laboratories across 26 countries. Bureau Veritas’ food laboratory testing activities are supported by a network of 34 laboratories and 1,900 employees across 15 countries in the Americas, Africa and Asia Pacific. The transaction will create a business with $1bn in revenue, significantly reinforcing MXNS' position as a global leader in food testing, inspection, and certification.

Clayton Utz Competition partner Mihkel Wilding and Corporate partner Hugh Brolsma led the firm's multidisciplinary team with key support from senior associates Paul Shin and Chamali Samarasinghe, lawyers Alex Clarke and Rachel Hurwitz, and graduate Harrison Mortimer. The team also involved key expertise across Banking and Financial Services, Environment and Sustainable Development, IP & Technology, Real Estate, Tax and Workplace Relations, Employment and Safety.

Commenting on the transaction, Mr Wilding said:

This acquisition further cements Mérieux NutriSciences' reputation as a global leader in the food testing industry and expands their presence in Australia. It was a pleasure to support Mérieux NutriSciences on such a significant strategic deal.

The firm worked collaboratively with MXNS' Paris based global legal counsel Gide Loyrette Nouel.

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Disclaimer
Clayton Utz communications are intended to provide commentary and general information. They should not be relied upon as legal advice. Formal legal advice should be sought in particular transactions or on matters of interest arising from this communication. Persons listed may not be admitted in all States and Territories.