Leadership transition to strengthen company’s focus on innovation, sustainability, and growth 

Laurent Guérindon

Brussels (Belgium), April 2025 – Galactic, a world leader in antimicrobials, lactic acid and its  derivatives, announces the appointment of Laurent Guérindon as its new Chief Executive  Officer, effective 1 April 2025. He succeeds Frédéric van Gansberghe, the company’s  founder, who will remain Chairman of the Board. This change of leadership marks a new  chapter for Galactic, strengthening its focus on innovation, market expansion and  sustainable solutions in the food ingredients and green chemistry sectors. 

Frédéric van Gansberghe

Under Frédéric van Gansberghe’s leadership, Galactic has grown from a small Brussels-based  lab into a pioneer in fermentation-based food ingredients and antimicrobials. Over the years,  the company has introduced various lactates, antimicrobials, and clean label ingredients,  continuously evolving to meet industry demands. In 2024, Galactic rebranded to reflect its  shift from lactic acid production to a broader portfolio of fermentation-based antimicrobial  solutions, including flavours, fermented flour, infused vinegars, nisin and natamycin. At the  same time, Futero, a sister company, was spun off to focus on green chemistry and  bioplastics, allowing Galactic to strengthen its core business in food applications. 

To enable a smooth transition and further build on its strong foundations, Galactic initiated a  long-term leadership succession plan. As part of this process, Laurent Guérindon has already  been involved with the company, facilitating a seamless handover of business operations.  “Galactic will continue to invest in innovation to strengthen its leadership role in natural food  preservation solutions produced in a sustainable way,” says Guérindon. “I see fermentation  as a key enabler for functional clean label solutions. With our existing portfolio and planned  innovations, Galactic’s product range will have a significant impact on the future of food  production.”

Technical knowledge and leadership experience 

With more than 23 years of experience in the food ingredients industry, Guérindon has held  senior leadership positions in medium and large companies, both in Europe and  internationally, specializing in market development, sales and business strategy. As a  chemical engineer with an MBA, he combines technical knowledge with strong commercial  expertise. His leadership will support Galactic’s plans to expand into high-growth food  categories and reinforce its position as a global provider of natural and sustainable food  preservation solutions. 

Laurent Guérindon & Frédéric van Gansberghe

Frédéric van Gansberghe’s future within Galactic 

While stepping down from daily operations, Frédéric van Gansberghe will remain actively  involved as Chairman of the Board, providing strategic oversight and supporting the  company’s research and development initiatives. 

“One of my greatest achievements was starting from nothing and building a company that  leads in innovation,” says van Gansberghe. “Our DNA has always been about leading the way  in fermentation-based solutions. I am confident that under Laurent’s leadership, Galactic will  continue to prosper.” 

Laurent Guérindon continues: “Galactic has an incredible legacy, and, with our dynamic  team, we will build on it to reach new heights. My goal is to continue the path we have  already embarked upon and to pursue growth and expansion into new markets.”

About Galactic 

Galactic, established in 1994, is a global leader in fermentation technology, specializing in the  production of lactic acid and its derivatives. With more than 30 years of experience, the company  produces a broad range of natural antimicrobials and ingredients for both food and non-food  industries. The group operates state-of-the-art production facilities in Europe, Asia and North  America, supported by a dynamic team of researchers in Belgium, China and the United States, and  offices in Brazil, Mexico and Japan. Committed to innovation, sustainability and quality, Galactic  focuses on creating safe, healthy and eco-friendly solutions to meet the evolving demands of  consumers and industries worldwide.  

For further information, please visit: www.lactic.com