Clifford Chance, Tokyo has advised Ajinomoto Co., Inc. on its purchase of KUKRE GIDA VE IHTIYAC MADDELERI NAKLIYAT VE OZEL EGITIM HIZMETLERI TICARET VE SANAYI ANONIM SIRKETI (Kukre A.S.), a premium brand food company in Turkey, for approximately 60 million Turkish Lira  (approximately JPY 2.9 billion). Ajinomoto aims to enhance its existing business in Turkey and expand its business into new fields of food products to strengthen its future rollout into the markets of the Middle East and Central Asia with the powerful brand and distribution capabilities of Kukre A.S. The deal was signed on 5 November 2013.

"We are delighted to have advised Ajinomoto Co., Inc. on this strategic and significant acquisition" said Itir Ciftci, a partner in the corporate M&A practice in Clifford Chance/Yegin & Ciftci Attorney Partnership in Istanbul. Miho Mizuguchi, a partner in Clifford Chance Tokyo adds, "This transaction showcases our ability to provide a seamless service supporting Japanese companies' outbound investments in Turkey."

The Clifford Chance Tokyo team was led by partner Miho Mizuguchi working with senior associate Satoshi Mogi and associates Yoko Matsumura, Maiko Adachi and Kengo Sakai. The Clifford Chance Istanbul/Yegin & Ciftci Attorney Partnership team was led by partner Itir Ciftci assisted by counsel Mufit Arapoglu and associates Asli Karagozoglu and Asli Kumbarac.

Ajinomoto Co., Inc. is a global manufacturer of high-quality seasonings, processed foods, beverages, amino acids, pharmaceuticals and specialty chemicals.