DCC nutraceuticals business boosts contract manufacturing activities

Irish group DCC, owners of UK tabletting firm Thomson and Capper, have acquired a majority stake in Laleham Healthcare, a contract manufacturer of tablets and creams for the health and beauty market.

DCC said its purchase of 77.5 per cent of the share capital of Laleham, at a cost of €10.4 million, would complement its activities in tablet manufacturing, hard and soft gel encapsulation and packing for the European vitamin supplements industry.

The group's healthcare unit also owns Euro Caps, a UK softgels manufacturer.

Laleham Healthcare is currently generating operating profits of approximately €4.3 million.

The remaining 22.5 per cent of the firm's share capital is held by the senior management team, all of whom are continuing with the business. The maximum further consideration is €7.1 million.

DCC is also a distributor of snack and health foods in Ireland and is involved in the energy and IT sectors.