The Mumbai-based colours group claims to be one of the fastest growing in the world and has continued its expansion into Europe following the opening of a German office last year.
Essential, founded in Tuscany, is a major producer of natural food extracts and flavourings. Roha said in a statement: “This is a strategic shift towards diversification and is a first step in responding to these rising consumer demands for natural products”.
Lorenzo Cacceralli, chief operating officer of Roha Europe, said "This new strategic move in Italy will help us realise our long term vision of establishing ourselves as the market leader in Europe in our product segment."
Roha currently owns 13 manufacturing plants and employs over 1000 people; it now owns commercial or manufacturing centres in UK, Spain, Germany and Italy.