Louis Dreyfus Co. (LDC) announced the sale of its Africa-based fertilizers and inputs operations, Fertilizers and Inputs Holding BV, to the London-based Africa-focused private investment firm Helios Investment Partners.
Acquired by LDC in 2011, Fertilizers and Inputs Holding BV distributes fertilizers, crop protection products, and seeds, as well as industrial chemicals, throughout West Africa. The company generates approximately US$300 million in sales annually. While no sales price was given, sources close to the deal said it was close to $200 million, according to Bloomberg.
Louis Dreyfus said the deal will allow it to focus on forging partnerships in geographies outside Africa. It will continue to use its Macrofertil brand to continue to deliver fertilizers and inputs products.
The company had been looking to sell the African assets for some time (GM Oct. 14, 2016), and has also been eyeing the possible sale of metals, dairy, and juice properties.