Our client, a Dutch science company active in nutrition, health and sustainable living, was considering the acquisition of a Danish firm specialised in the production of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) for different applications.
Exclusivity was set to expire during the business plan period, so there was a major risk related to negotiations with other manufacturers, as well as the target’s ability to take advantage of the first-mover role in new generations of HMOs and new applications.
Market forecasts showed significant growth for HMO applications, in line with the seller’s long-term expectations. Furthermore, a number of potential upsides were not considered in the business plan (e.g. regulatory approval in new markets).