International food company importaco has agreed to acquire a 51% stake in Italian company Besana.

Financial details of the deal have not been disclosed by the companies.

based in Milan, Besana markets nuts, dried fruit, seeds, chocolate and snacks in the European market.

Besana president Pino Calcagni said: “In the current scenario, the globalisation of new markets and the development of synergies to improve economies of scale are becoming key commercial factors. The importaco Group is the ideal strategic partner to achieve these objectives and create value throughout the supply chain.”

Established in 1940 in Spain, importaco operates nuts and natural drinks business lines. It distributes its products to the retail segment in the country.

It has also established its presence in the agro-food ingredient and foodservice markets.

Following the stake acquisition, importaco aims to strengthen its position in the natural food products category.