Buhler has maintained a presence in China for 25 years but is now looking to branch out into formulation.

Take-over figures have not been released although the Guangzhou-based Chinese firm is understood to have generated sales worth €7.18m in 2009.

Founded in 1992, Bangsheng has excellent contacts with flour mill operators in China, where demand for improvers is particularly high.

The buy-out comes just two years after Buhler launched its Nutrition Solutions business orchestrated specifically to focus on providing additional services to clients. It is hoped the combined efforts of the two companies will result in greater product development and an increased market share.

Roy Gao from Buhler will take over as general manager while continuing to support the previous owner and management team.