IMCD to acquire YCAM Life Sciences business in South Korea, expanding its presence in beauty and personal care markets

IMCD NV, a leading global distribution and formulation partner for specialty chemicals and ingredients, has signed an agreement to acquire the personal care and pharmaceutical business of YCAM Corporation, a South Korea-based distributor.

Founded in 2010, YCAM specializes in the distribution of specialty ingredients for the cosmetics, personal care and pharmaceutical markets. Representing leading global suppliers, YCAM focuses on providing formulation advice and specialty ingredients to its customers through its technical team and laboratory support, helping them stay abreast of market trends. Based in Anyang, South Korea, YCAM has 8 employees and revenues of approximately KRW 26 billion (approx. EUR 17 million) in 2023.

Dongjoon Lee, Managing Director of IMCD Korea, said: "This acquisition will be an important step to expand our presence in the beauty and personal care market and further enrich our life sciences portfolio. We are delighted to welcome such a dedicated and skilled team to IMCD."

"I firmly believe that YCAM's rich resources and knowledge can be quickly integrated into IMCD's global business model, strengthening its commercial and operational strength in the personal care and pharmaceutical industries in Korea," said Kim Moon-kyu, CEO of YCAM. "My team is a great asset to the company and I believe they will have more opportunities to grow and maximize their potential at IMCD."

Completion of the transaction is subject to customary (regulatory) closing conditions and is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025.