#USA #Chicago #Food Safety #Mérieux NutriSciences #Certified Group

Mérieux NutriSciences Expands Its Reach with Acquisition of Certified Group

In a strategically significant move, Mérieux NutriSciences has entered into an agreement to acquire Certified Group, a prominent provider of testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) services. This acquisition, announced on August 18, 2026, aims to bolster Mérieux NutriSciences’ capabilities in food safety, quality assurance, and sustainability across North America. The integration of Certified Group's services is set to enhance customer engagement and expand Mérieux's existing offerings within diverse industries including food and beverage, cosmetics, and dietary supplements.

About the Acquisition

Certified Group, supported by Warburg Pincus, reported an impressive revenue of approximately $300 million, established through a robust network of 31 laboratories across North America. This company is recognized for its comprehensive range of core services including microbiology and chemistry testing, contract research, certification, auditing services, and regulatory consulting. Their specialization in the Food & Beverage sector — particularly through its Food Safety Net Services — positions them as a bellwether in food safety, particularly vital within protein, dairy, and processed food segments.

The acquisition reflects Mérieux NutriSciences' commitment to addressing the evolving challenges faced by industries in the realm of food safety and quality assurance. By merging with a leader in regulatory consulting and testing, Mérieux aims to enhance its service delivery and create a more expansive network across North America.

Benefits of the Acquisition

This strategic alliance brings together the diverse strengths of both companies, presenting significant advantages to their customers. Mérieux NutriSciences CEO, Nicolas Cartier, emphasized that this acquisition is aligned with their growth strategy, reinforcing their mission to provide “Better Food. Better Health. Better World.” By improving their multi-regional network, Mérieux can foster new opportunities for knowledge exchange and bolster technical leadership. David Morgan, CEO of Certified Group, echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence that the merger will enhance their capacity to serve clients better.

The comprehensive portfolio of services offered by Certified Group, which includes key segments like cosmetics and OTC products, alongside Labstat International’s advanced nicotine product testing, represents a unique opportunity for Mérieux to diversify its competencies and meet the demands of a broader client base. The integration aims to provide quicker turnaround times and dedicated services to the growing sectors of food safety and health.