DSM Set to Acquire Martek

HEERLEN, The NetherlandsDSM entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Martek Biosciences Corporation for $1.087 million cash. The transaction is expected to be complete in the first or second quarter of 2011.

This acquisition is an attractive and logical next step for DSM," said Feike Sijbesma, CEO/Chairman of the DSM Managing Board. Marteks leading position in healthy, natural ingredients and algal technology will add a new growth platform to our Nutrition business. DSM is a unique partner for Martek and, with our strong track record of growing businesses in competitive environments, we believe we can help to lift Martek to the next level."

The two companies already have a longstanding relationship as DSM supplies Martek with the key base material for its arachidonic acid product. DSM has complementary intellectual property to the broad range of patents and intellectual property Martek owns, which will further extend the competitiveness of the combined companys proprietary products.

We are pleased to announce this transaction, and we believe that it is in the best interest of Martek and our stockholders," said Steve Dubin, CEO, Martek. After careful analysis, our board of directors unanimously approved this transaction with DSM, which has a strong reputation and global operations. We are pleased that this transaction appropriately recognizes the value of Marteks nutritional ingredients, technology platform, market position and skilled workforce, while providing significant value to our stockholders. We have worked collaboratively with DSM for many years, and we are confident that they share our vision for Marteks future."

Marteks flagship product is lifesDHA, a sustainable and vegetarian source of algal DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) for use in infant formula, pregnancy and nursing products, foods and beverages, dietary supplements and animal feeds. Martek also produces lifesARA (arachidonic acid), an omega-6 fatty acid, for use in infant formula and growing-up milks.

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