BRC Global Standards (BRC GS), London, announced plans to acquire Allergen Control Group, Inc. (ACG), the London-based owner and operator of the Gluten-Free Certification Program (GFCP).

This investment extends BRC GS' and its owner LGC Ltd.’s food safety supply chain assurance standards business into a new vertical. Plus, the high-growth North American gluten-free market will enable ACG to continue adding to its existing presence in Canada and the United States.

"We are delighted to have completed this partnership with ACG. The GFCP, which is exclusively endorsed by the trusted coeliac societies, Beyond Celiac in the US and the Canadian Celiac Association, is highly respected by retailers and brand owners in North America, and its capabilities are highly complementary to BRC GS' existing strengths across certification and brand protection. ACG serves leading food industry participants in the U.S. and Canada, and over the past 7 years, has become the ‘go-to’ company for all things gluten-free. We look forward to working with ACG's management to continue growing the business globally, while developing new and innovative solutions to meet our customers' needs," says Mark Proctor, chief executive officer, BRC GS.

"As the global regulatory and food safety landscapes continue to evolve, together with the ever-changing needs of consumers, we will continue to provide ‘free-from’ services dedicated to enhancing the quality of life,” adds Paul Valder, president, ACG. “As we accelerate our strategic transition from a stand-alone gluten-free program to a global brand and consumer protection organization offering a range of complimentary combined service options, BRC GS and LGC will be the ideal owner to help ACG provide incremental customer value and expanded international growth. There will be continuity in our management to ensure our customers receive the same high levels of service and support during this transition, as we also strive to improve the range of services and products for them."