Barentz International expanded its activities in the Central East European region through the acquisition of a majority stake in the Noack Group, a specialized distributor of ingredients for the animal nutrition and feed industry as well as African catfish, carp, fry, sturgeon and trout feeds. 

The Noack group is headquartered in Vienna and has an extensive presence in Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia and Slovenia. In the adjacent countries, as Northern Macedonia, Bosnia & Hercegovina and Moldavia, Noack cooperates with local partners. The group reached an annual turnover of €60 million in 2020. 

Noack has a strong position in animal nutrition ingredients and is also specialized in agri-food and veterinary diagnostics with a wide range of test systems. Its product portfolio is complementary to Barentz’ broad animal nutrition range of ingredients.

CEO of Noack, Herbert Völkerer, who will remain active in the company, said that “since the start of our company we have created long-lasting, excellent relationships with our suppliers and customers. Over the years, this has helped us ensure a very solid market position in Central Europe. The next steps for the company include further expansion in this market with new product launches. That’s where the quality of Barentz’ network is crucial.  New blood brings continuity and new business development opportunities for our customers and suppliers.”

Hidde van der Wal, CEO of Barentz, added, “our European animal nutrition activities have a very strong presence in Western Europe and our local expertise, supported by our technical teams, fits uniquely with Noack’s product portfolio. Noack assists us with the expansion into Central Europe and opens many new territories. This takeover is a natural fit and will create strong potential growth for Noack’s customers and suppliers. I am convinced that all parties involved will benefit from this partnership.”