Solabia refocuses portfolio on active ingredients and life sciences
Solabia’s majority owner, pan-European private equity firm Astorg, is strategically repositioning the company’s portfolio.
FRANCE – Solabia is refocusing its business on cosmetics, nutrition, and life sciences by planning to sell its microbiology diagnostics division.
The France-based ingredient supplier aims to become a global leader in natural and biotech active ingredients, supported by its scientific expertise, differentiated ingredient portfolio, and international footprint.
Under the proposed deal, Solabia’s microbiology diagnostics division will be acquired by Oxoid Remel Microbiology, an Astorg portfolio company acquired in August 2026.
The proposed combination would unite complementary capabilities in microbiology diagnostics and create a strong platform for further development and international expansion.
Astorg managing director Paul Arhanchiague said the repositioning builds on Solabia’s strong foundations and established global presence, while the divestment will allow the group to sharpen its focus and pursue new growth opportunities.
Financial terms have not been disclosed.
The transaction remains subject to employee consultation processes, execution of definitive agreements, and required regulatory approvals.
Following its acquisition of Mibelle Biochemistry in June 2026, Solabia says it has become the world’s leading independent player in cosmetic active ingredients.
The company intends to build on this position by meeting rising demand for natural, science-backed ingredients and by investing in innovation and international growth.
Solabia’s move reflects a broader industry trend of companies divesting adjacent businesses to concentrate resources on beauty and personal care.
Muriel Koch will become Solabia’s president and CEO on October 29, 2026.
She brings more than 30 years of leadership experience across cosmetics, nutrition, and consumer markets and was most recently CEO of Groupe Nuxe.
Koch said she is joining at an important stage in Solabia’s development as it narrows its focus to cosmetics, nutrition, and life sciences.
She said her experience across these markets gives her a clear view of the opportunities to strengthen Solabia’s foundations and advance its ambition to become the global reference in natural and biotech active ingredients.
She will work with the executive committee and Astorg to deliver the company’s growth plans and expand its international presence.
In a similar portfolio-refinement move, Unilever has agreed to sell Welly Health to Forward Consumer Partners.
The sale of the first-aid and bandage brand supports Unilever’s strategy to become a pure-play home and personal care company.
Welly was founded in 2018 and offers first-aid products designed to clean, protect, and heal everyday injuries. Unilever acquired a majority stake in 2021.
The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2026, subject to closing conditions.
International Flavors & Fragrances agreed to sell its Food Ingredients business to CVC Capital Partners, sharpening its focus on scent, health, and biosciences. LG Household & Health Care sold beverage subsidiary Haitai for more than KRW300 billion (USD 200 million) to strengthen its K-beauty focus.
Earlier this year, Ingredion acquired UK rival Tate & Lyle. While both companies are primarily active in food and beverage, the deal also combines overlapping specialty ingredient portfolios with relevance to cosmetics.
Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.
