Naturex Reports Sharp Increase in Growth

Added impetus came from the smooth and ongoing integration of the Ingredients Division of Natraceutical, once again confirming the group's ability to seamlessly merge new operations.

Jul 28 2010 --- Naturex, global leader in specialty plant-based natural ingredients, enjoyed an excellent second quarter in 2010 marked by a very strong acceleration in growth. Revenues amounted to € 61.2 million, up 127% in consolidated figures. Like-for-like, sales for the second quarter of 2010 increased 28.1% in current currencies and 23.5% in constant currencies.

Added impetus came from the smooth and ongoing integration of the Ingredients Division of Natraceutical, once again confirming the group's ability to seamlessly merge new operations.

Naturex posted revenues of € 112.8 million in the first half of 2010, twice the figure generated in the first six months of 2009. At constant scope and in constant currencies, sales grew 15.4%. As a result, mid-way through the year, Naturex has a clear head start on its targets for 2010 (growth of 5 to 10% like-for-like), notching up an impressive performance given the current economic backdrop.

Each of the group's divisions and geographic sectors enjoyed new growth over the first half of 2010. Food & Beverage now accounts for 59.7% of group sales, Nutrition & Health for 34.0% and Personal Care for 1.1%. Europe and Africa account for 54.0% of group activity, North and South America for 35.9%, and the Asia/Pacific region for 10.1%.

According to Jacques Dikansky, President and CEO and founder of Naturex: "This excellent start to the year has strengthened our position as the world leader in specialty plant-based ingredients - a sector with a strong market potential that is set to stay. Thanks to the investment we devote to research and development, our ability to step up the development of products with a high value-added is an invaluable asset that will continue to ensure our long-term growth".

Meanwhile Naturex reported that this year it is offering its shareholders the option of receiving their dividends (€ 0.11 per share) in the form of shares. This option may be exercised until September 10, 2010 included.

Until September 10 included, shareholders will therefore have the possibility through their financial intermediary of opting for payment in the form of shares. Once this deadline has expired, shareholders who have not exercised this option will receive their dividend payment in cash.

The share price is € 26.85, which corresponds to 90% of the average closing price of the twenty trading sessions preceding the Annual General Meeting held on June 30, 2010, minus the net dividend amount.

If the value of the dividend for which the option is exercised does not correspond to a whole number of shares, shareholders may:

• either obtain the whole number of shares immediately above the exact amount by paying the difference in cash;
• or receive the whole number of shares immediately below the exact amount in addition to receiving the remaining balance in cash.

Payment and delivery of the shares will take place as of September 30, 2010.