Ajinomoto has announced that it will amalgamate Ajinomoto Istanbul Food Sales, Kükre and Örgen, all of which are wholly owned subsidiaries in Turkey. The company said it will make a new start as a comprehensive food manufacturer in Turkey to accelerate the expansion of its international consumer foods business in Turkey and the Middle East. The effective date of the amalgamation is scheduled for July 2018, and the new company will be named Ajinomoto Istanbul Food Industry And Trade Limited Company.

Ajinomoto started business in Turkey with the establishment of Ajinomoto Istanbul Foods Sales Ltd. in 2011. After acquiring 50% of the equity of Kükre which manufactures and sells liquid seasonings (vinegars, fruit sauces), pickles and other products, in November 2013, Ajinomoto made it a wholly owned subsidiary in August 2017. Ajinomoto Co. also made Örgen, which manufactures and sells powdered seasonings (bouillon, menu-specific seasonings) and processed foods (powdered soups, powdered desserts), a wholly owned subsidiary in April 2017.

The amalgamation of the three companies will consolidate their corporate functions. In addition, the new company will utilize the marketing and sales functions of Kükre and Örgen to establish a solid business platform for enhancing manufacturing and sales of existing liquid seasonings, powdered seasonings and processed foods, as well as developing new products using the Ajinomoto Group’s specialized ingredients and technologies. Ajinomoto says it will also strengthen exports to the Middle East in addition to sales in Turkey. In doing so, it will aim for fiscal 2020 sales of more than JPY 10 billion (about twice fiscal 2017 sales).