Cargill Inc., Royal DSM NV and Nutreco NV are among those who made offers before an initial deadline in the possible takeover of French animal feed producer Provimi SA.
The sale could reach more than $2.6 billion, according to sources. According to analysts, the sale is attracting both food companies and chemical makers. “Nutreco had talks with Provimi before, so this is like a second chance for them,” said Jos Versteeg, an analyst at Theodoor Gilissen Bankiers NV. “DSM is likely interested in the premix part and maybe they would buy the whole company and sell the animal-food part, which fits better with Nutreco.” Cargill has said it is looking for expansion opportunities globally.
Final bids for the deal are due around the end of July.