Novonesis has signed an agreement to acquire the remaining shares of MicroBioGen, an Australian biotechnology company known for its work on yeast strains for industrial use. The deal builds on more than a decade of collaboration between the two companies.
Novonesis first invested in MicroBioGen in 2013. It currently holds a 23% stake. The new agreement would bring MicroBioGen fully under the Novonesis umbrella.
MicroBioGen specializes in yeast strain development for industrial applications. Its expertise is particularly strong in bioethanol production, a field built on advanced fermentation science. That biological foundation is central to the deal.
Novonesis CEO Ester Baiget described the acquisition as part of the company’s 2030 strategy. She said it strengthens the company’s yeast and R&D capabilities. She added that the move reflects a disciplined approach to investment and growth.
Novonesis operates as a pure-play biology company. It invests roughly 10% of annual sales into innovation, with deep expertise in microbiology and industrial fermentation. Acquiring MicroBioGen adds to that scientific base.
Claus Crone Fuglsang, Novonesis’ Chief Scientific Officer, called MicroBioGen a strong match for the company. He pointed to their long working relationship as evidence of the fit. He said the acquisition will help Novonesis expand the biosolutions it offers customers.
Novonesis has committed to supporting MicroBioGen’s existing partners. The company says it will maintain continuity across those collaborations going forward.
Geoffrey Bell, CEO and co-founder of MicroBioGen, welcomed the deal. He said joining Novonesis made sense for the company and its employees, citing years of close collaboration.
Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Completion still depends on standard regulatory approvals. That includes clearance from the ACCC, Australia’s competition and consumer watchdog.
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