Core Insights - ICL Group Ltd has announced a strategic initiative to acquire Bartek Ingredients, a Canadian producer of food-grade acidulants, to expand its presence in the global food ingredients market [1][4] Group 1: Acquisition Details - The acquisition is structured in two phases, starting with an initial cash investment of approximately $90 million for about 50% ownership, with the first phase expected to close in Q1 2026 [2][6] - The second phase will involve acquiring the remaining stake, contingent on meeting operational and integration milestones and obtaining regulatory approvals [4] Group 2: Bartek Ingredients Overview - Bartek Ingredients generates around $65 million in annual revenues and serves customers in over 40 countries [3][6] - The company is constructing a new manufacturing facility expected to be operational in 2026, which will significantly enhance its capacity and output [3][6] Group 3: Market Context - The global functional food ingredients market is projected to exceed $45 billion in sales by 2030, indicating substantial growth potential for ICL following the acquisition [3] - ICL's shares have declined by 23.5% over the past six months, compared to an 11.9% decline in the industry [4]