Fera boosts laboratory assurance services with acquisition of Qotho Minerals
York-based Fera Science, the provider of science services supporting food, agriculture and the environment, has announced the acquisition of Qotho Minerals based in South Africa.
Established in 2013, Qotho Minerals - formerly Qotho Laboratory Services – is a proficiency testing service provider and producer of certified reference materials for mineral and agri laboratories and geologists worldwide.
A spokesman said: “The acquisition enhances Fera’s capabilities in laboratory assurance services expanding the breadth and depth of its proficiency testing portfolio delivered under its Fapas brand. Bringing Qotho into the Fera group alongside Fapas, opens opportunities to support clients and partners across new markets including agriculture, mining and minerals and presents a portal for the expansion of its PT services into Africa.”
The transaction is supported by Bridgepoint, the global mid-market investor, which became Fera’s majority shareholder in January 2024. Alongside Fera’s existing shareholder, the UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), Bridgepoint has supported the company to pursue growth.
The statement added: “Since Bridgepoint’s investment, Fera has demonstrated strong double-digit revenue growth and now employs over 550 people at its biotech campus near York, including over 250 graduate and 50 doctorate multidisciplinary scientists.”
Dr Andrew Swift, CEO of Fera said: “We are delighted to welcome the Qotho team to Fera, having seen its strong strategic and cultural fit with Fera right from the outset. Qotho brings a wealth of experience and deep sector expertise strengthening Fera’s market position in the broader laboratory assurance services market.
"We are excited to work closely with the Qotho team to realise the new growth opportunities presented by our association.”
Dr Hannelie de Beer, Managing Director Qotho Minerals, added:
“Joining Fera provides an opportunity to build on Qotho’s established reputation and expertise, supported by Fera’s wider scientific infrastructure, collaborative environment and strategic vision.”