Nutraceutical M&As: How strategic mergers are shaping the health and wellness market

The nutraceutical industry has seen a surge in M&A activity over the past three years as companies pursue strategic acquisitions to strengthen market positions, diversify offerings, and drive innovation. Sudhindran N, GM - Corporate Affairs, Nutrify Today explores key trends, motivations, notable deals, and future growth prospects shaping the industry

The nutraceutical industry-where nutrition meets pharmaceuticals has been a hotbed for mergers and acquisitions (M&A) over the past three years, with a wave of deals driven by consumer demand, the quest for innovation, and the push for global expansion. As health and wellness trends become more pronounced, major players are betting big on M&A to consolidate their market positions, diversify their portfolios, and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive landscape. Here's a closer look at the key M&A trends, motivations, notable deals, and future prospects shaping the nutra industry.

Key trends in nutra M&A

◆ Surge in deal volume and value: From 2021 to 2023, nutra M&A activity saw a major uptick in both deal volume and value. The global nutra market surpassed $423 billion in 2022 and is forecasted to expand at a 4.5 per cent CAGR through 2032, as per Global Market Insights. The uptrend reflects heightened consumer awareness around health, with companies vying to strengthen their market positions through strategic acquisitions.

◆ Rising cross-border transactions: Cross-border deals have surged as companies from developed markets like the US and Europe acquire firms in emerging markets such as Asia-Pacific and Latin America. With rapid consumer growth in these regions, this approach helps companies tap into new markets and secure higher growth potential. For instance, Nestlé Health Science's acquisition of Atrium Innovations in 2018 set a strategic precedent for cross-border acquisitions in the nutra sector.