Pluri Finalizes Acquisition of Kokomodo Ltd., Enhancing Cell-Based Cacao Production
Deal News | Apr 28, 2025 | Globenewswire
In a strategic move to bolster its position in the agrifood technology sector, Pluri Inc., a biotechnology company specializing in cell-based solutions, has finalized the acquisition of a 71% stake in Kokomodo Ltd. for $4.5 million, paid in shares. Kokomodo, an innovative AgFoodTech firm, is known for its prowess in cultivated cacao production, harnessing cellular agriculture to create climate-resilient and sustainable cacao products. This acquisition aims to merge Pluri's expertise in mass-scale cell production with Kokomodo's innovative cacao cultivation techniques. As a subsidiary, Kokomodo will continue to operate independently under the leadership of CEO Tal Govrin, while leveraging Pluri's resources to scale operations and meet increasing global demand. The global cacao market, valued at $13.5 billion in 2023, is expected to rise, driven by sustainable and consistent cacao production technologies. Pluri's acquisition of Kokomodo underscores its commitment to transforming global food systems through biotechnology, aiming to address climate change effects on traditional cacao farming while advancing innovation in the cultivated cacao sector.
Sectors
- Biotechnology
- AgriTech
- FoodTech
Geography
- Israel – Pluri Inc. is headquartered in Haifa, Israel, marking the geographical origin of the acquiring company.
Industry
- Biotechnology – The acquisition is rooted in the biotechnology sector, as both Pluri and Kokomodo utilize cellular agriculture and cell-based technology to innovate in the food industry.
- AgriTech – Kokomodo specializes in AgFoodTech, utilizing agricultural technology to cultivate cacao, representing a significant advancement in sustainable food production.
- FoodTech – Pluri's and Kokomodo's operations intersect with FoodTech, focusing on sustainable and innovative food production technologies, especially in the context of cultivated cacao.
Financials
- 4.5 million – The value of the acquisition of a 71% stake in Kokomodo Ltd. by Pluri, paid via 976,139 of Pluri's Common Shares.
Participants
Name | Role | Type | Description |
---|---|---|---|
Pluri Inc. | Acquirer | Company | A biotechnology company focused on cell-based products and solutions for various industries, including Regenerative Medicine and AgriTech. |
Kokomodo Ltd. | Target | Company | An AgFoodTech company specializing in cellular agriculture for cultivated cacao production, aiming to provide sustainable cacao ingredients globally. |
Tal Govrin | Chief Executive Officer of Kokomodo | Person | Co-Founder and CEO of Kokomodo Ltd., overseeing the company's operations and strategy following the acquisition. |
Yaky Yanay | Chief Executive Officer of Pluri | Person | CEO and President of Pluri Inc., leading the company through strategic acquisitions to expand its technological capabilities. |