Nexira : 130 years of history, passion, innovation and growth

Published: 30-Apr-2025

A look back at the history of a French family leader, as we present our AMBITIONS 2030 strategic plan

A family heritage, an international vision 

Founded in Marseilles in 1895, Nexira has established itself as the world leader in acacia  and natural plant ingredients. This year, the company celebrates 130 years of innovation,  passion and growth, while remaining true to its family values and independence.  

This symbolic milestone marks the opening of a new chapter, supported by the AMBITIONS  2030 roadmap, to accelerate the group's international expansion and reinforce its position  as a benchmark in the B2B market for natural ingredients. 

A dynamic of growth and innovation 

Nexira was built on the discovery and development of the unique properties of acacia gum,  now a key ingredient in the food, nutrition and health sectors. The move to Rouen in 1976,  followed by the creation of the ultra-modern Serqueux site, enabled Nexira to become the  world's leading producer, with over 100 tonnes of natural ingredients manufactured every  day. 

The company has grown stronger in recent years through strategic acquisitions:

  • 2008: expansion into plant active ingredients 
  • 2012: increased expertise in plant extraction for nutraceuticals 
  • 2019: key partnership in India to support Asian demand 
  • 2021: integration of a Swiss specialist in natural hydrocolloids. 

This external growth strategy has enabled Nexira to diversify its ranges and extend its  global network, while maintaining a pioneering stance in innovation and research. In 2022,  the FDA recognised acacia gum as a “dietary fibre”, validating Nexira's scientific strategy  and expertise on the international market.

A unique portfolio of natural solutions 

Nexira offers natural ingredients from a wide variety of plants (acacia, acerola, baobab,  cactus, cranberry, carob, guarana, olive, etc.), for the food, health, nutrition, dietary  supplements and cosmetics industries. 

Its flagship innovations include two ranges: 

  • Fibregum: a range of high-content acacia fibres (>90%), recognised for their benefits on  intestinal health. 
  • Inavea: a 100% organic range, pioneering carbon neutrality, meeting expectations for  naturalness and sustainability. Nexira propose des ingrédients naturels issus d’une grande  diversité de plantes (acacia, acerola, baobab, cactus, cranberry, caroube, guarana, olive,  etc.), à destination des industries alimentaires, de la santé, de la nutrition, des  compléments alimentaires et de la cosmétique. 

Innovation for responsible growth 

Innovation at Nexira is not limited to products: it permeates the entire value chain, from  the rigorous selection of raw materials to tailor-made formulation, traceability and quality.  

R&D is supported by long-term partnerships with renowned universities and laboratories,  and by solid intellectual property (patents, trademarks, clinical studies).  

A concrete commitment to CSR, rooted in the Group's DNA 

For over 20 years, Nexira has placed social responsibility at the heart of its strategy. The  company acts on three major axes: 

  • Developing sustainable supply chains: securing supplies, supporting local producers,  promoting responsible farming practices 
  • Reducing environmental footprint: a 9% drop in CO₂ emissions per tonne produced  between 2019 and 2022, major investments to modernise sites and optimise energy and  water consumption (ISO 50001 target in 2025). 
  • Acacia Program: historic partnership with NGO SOS SAHEL to preserve the resource,  combat deforestation, restore biodiversity and support economic and social development  in the Sahel (60,000 tonnes of CO₂ sequestered per year, 200 villages involved, 20,000  hectares replanted by 2030). 

Nexira is a signatory of the United Nations Global Compact and a member of benchmark  platforms (SEDEX, EcoVadis, CDP), guaranteeing an ethical and transparent approach  throughout the value chain.

Putting people at the heart of success 

Nexira values diversity, social dialogue and skills development. The company invests in  training, safety and well-being in the workplace (ATLAS project for automation and  ergonomics, HSE week, professional equality, inclusion of people with disabilities).  

Each employee benefits from individualised support, encouraging personal development  and integration into the Group's family culture. 

AMBITIONS 2030: accelerating the Group's transformation and growth

The AMBITIONS 2030 strategic plan focuses on four areas: 

  • Managerial evolution and governance: integrating new talent, anticipating skills, adapting the organisation. 
  • Diversification: two major acquisitions planned between now and 2030, notably in digestive health and plant proteins. 
  • Innovation and development: ongoing launch of premium products, development of new value chains. 
  • Consolidation and structuring: strengthening continuous improvement programs, reducing risks and securing processes. 

A promising future 

With sales of 212 million euros by 2025 and annual growth of almost 15% since 2020,  Nexira confirms the strength of its business model, based on passion, innovation and  sustainable commitment.  

The group intends to pursue its pioneering role in providing natural, healthy and  responsible solutions for future generations, by establishing itself as a leader in natural  plant solutions for professionals. 
 

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