World: Glencore completes acquisition of Viterra Inc.

Glencore International plc and Viterra Inc. announced on Dec. 17 that Glencore has completed the acquisition of Viterra. Glencore noted that this acquisition brings Glencore immediate critical mass in the key grain markets of North America and also materially expands Glencore’s existing operations in Australia.

Fran Malecha, formerly chief operating officer of Viterra, has been appointed director, agricultural products, North America, with responsibility for all North American operations. He will be based in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, which becomes headquarters for Glencore’s North American Agricultural Products business. David Mattiske has been appointed country manager, agricultural products, Australia and New Zealand, with responsibility for all agricultural operations in Australia and New Zealand.

Chris Mahoney, director of agricultural products of Glencore, said, “By combining Viterra’s first class assets, grain logistics and processing insight with our global marketing capability, we have the opportunity to become a true leader across the sector with even greater means to meet the needs of farmers and customers globally.

“Glencore has acquired more than physical assets; we have gained the world-class skills and experience of Viterra employees and we are already working well together to implement a smooth integration. Furthermore, I am delighted to welcome Fran and David to their new positions, and I have every confidence that the businesses in North America and Australia will thrive under their leadership.”

Malecha said, “Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the company. I am excited to be staying on to lead Glencore’s North American agricultural business, and look forward to strengthening our relationships with farmers and creating opportunities for all participants in the industry.”

Mattiske said, “Glencore values Viterra’s Australian and New Zealand people and assets as a critical part of its global portfolio. This transaction reflects Glencore’s strong belief in the importance and potential of the Australian and New Zealand grain industries. The combined business will provide additional opportunities for growers and industry participants.”

Glencore anticipates all integration projects, including the divestment of certain assets to Agrium Inc. and Richardson International Limited, will be completed by the end of 2013. Until the time of divestiture, Glencore will continue to support these assets.

19 December, 2012