Cosmetic ingredient distributor Connell expands footprint in China

The company, which is has carved out its name in the distribution of fine chemicals for the food industry throughout the Asia Pacific region, has acquired personal and home care distribution company Bioworld Fine Chemical, which is based in Shanghai.

Bioworld has extensive experience in both the marketing and distribution of fine grade, high quality botanicals and plant extracts throughout China, creating a new opportunity in a fast growing category for Connell Brothers Company (CBC).

Expansion beyond food and into cosmetics​

CBC has been focusing on expanding its footprint in the Asia Pacific region beyond the food industry and into the personal care industry for some years, and this is the latest in a series of acquisitions targeting this goal.

"Recent investments in personnel and expansion of technical capabilities in the region, along with the representation of leading suppliers in their applications, provide our customers a superior platform to grow their businesses,"​ said Azita Owlia, vice president, CBC North Asia and Sponsor of CBC Personal & Home Care industries.

“The acquisition of Bioworld further expands our network and capabilities in this market. This is an exciting time for us, as we welcome our new customers, employees and suppliers to this platform."​

Building on China footprint​

The acquisition builds on the expansion of the company’s existing platform in China through Bioworld’s strong presence in Central and Southern China, which will combine with the opening of a new technical centre in Shanghai, scheduled to be opened in early 2015.

The move will also serve to combine the resources of both CBC and Bioworld in an effort to drive growth for the business and to better serve customers in this fragmented and complex sector.

Currently, the major products that are represented by Bioworld and which will soon be encompassed into the CBC portfolio will include botanical oils and plant extracts by companies such as Distierias Munoz Galvez, the Lebermuth Company, Kumar Organic Products and Kingvish Kompany.