IMCD to Acquire YCAM Life Science Business, Expanding Its Presence in South Korea Beauty and Personal Care Markets

Published: 20 Dec 2024

Author: Precedence Research

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IMCD N.V., which is a global distributor and formulation partner for specialty chemicals and ingredients, has signed an agreement for the acquisition of YCAM Corporation's personal care and pharmaceuticals business. The objective of this acquisition would be to extend IMCD's footprint in the beauty and personal care markets while improving its life science portfolio in the entire region. Established in 2010, YCAM has a strong presence in South Korea, where it distributes specialty ingredients for cosmetics, personal care, and pharmaceuticals.

The company is known for the depth of its technical support and formulation advice, offered by dedicated teams of experts with access to laboratory facilities. YCAM sources these ingredients from the best suppliers to answer the growing need for high-quality, innovative products in the country's personal care and pharmaceutical industries. YCAM operations generated revenue of around KRW 26 billion in 2023; the company now has a matured business and will transfer eight employees to the ranks of IMCD.

To grow its business in the beauty and personal care markets, IMCD South Korea acquired YCAM's business. The acquisition will add a new dimension to IMCD's life science portfolio and strengthen its presence in South Korea's market, which has a thriving appetite for innovative personal care products. Part of a booming beauty market worldwide, South Korea is characterized by a constant commitment to quality and performance. The acquisition gives IMCD access to meet the different demands of its customers in South Korea's personal care and pharmaceutical markets through an expanded array of solutions, including cutting-edge ingredients and advanced technical support. Dongjoon Lee, Managing Director of IMCD South Korea, expressed excitement over the deal and looks forward to the continued collaboration toward future growth in the region.

YCAM’s Expertise and Strategic Fit with IMCD’s Global Business

IMCD has acquired YCAM, an expert in supplying specialty ingredients for cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. According to CEO Munkyum Kim, YCAM's resources can be well integrated into IMCD's global business model and would strengthen its commercial and operational capacities in the personal care and pharmaceutical industries in South Korea. This acquisition also aligns perfectly with IMCD's planned expansion in Asia and the enhancement of its capabilities in key sectors such as life sciences, particularly beauty and personal care. Thus, with YCAM's market expertise and close customer relationships, IMCD expects a quicker breakthrough into regional markets.

This acquisition will create a competitive advantage for IMCD in the South Korean market as well as support an environmental strategy within its broader Asian empowerment plans. This acquisition, which involves eight employees, focuses on building a diverse high-growth business as part of IMCD's ongoing efforts. IMCD is committed to increasing its leadership in the global distribution of specialty chemicals and ingredient-focused innovations, sustainability, and customer-focused solutions. This acquisition signals a significant growth opportunity for IMCD as it expands its portfolio and solidifies its presence in the dynamic and rapidly evolving South Korean market.