According to the agreement, Merck will grant the distribution rights for its pigments for the food industry in Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg to chemicals and food additives supplier Azelis.
Azelis will be responsible for local customer support and applications technology. In turn, Merck will support Azelis with research and development, training and regulatory matters, said a Merk press release.
Merck's Candurin pearl effect colours can be used in the manufacture of candies, chocolates, baked goods, ice cream, and beverages.
The firm is already collaborating with Azelis in the United Kingdom and Ireland, as well as in Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Bulgaria, Romania, and Greece.