THE WHAT? Unilever is reportedly considering a bid for US dietary supplements company Thorne as it looks to expand its health and wellbeing portfolio.
THE DETAILS According to the Financial Times, Unilever is among several companies evaluating a potential acquisition of Thorne, which is owned by private equity firm L Catterton and could be valued at up to US$4 billion. Founded in 1984, Thorne specialises in science-led nutritional supplements, including magnesium and omega-3 products, and is expected to generate around US$650 million in revenue this year. The potential acquisition would build on Unilever’s recent investments in health and wellness brands, including Liquid I.V., Nutrafol, Olly, SmartyPants and Grüns. No formal offer has been announced, and both Unilever and L Catterton declined to comment.
THE WHY? A deal would further Unilever’s strategy of increasing its exposure to faster-growing health and wellbeing categories, which offer higher margins and stronger consumer demand than many traditional consumer goods segments. The move would also continue the company’s portfolio transformation following the restructuring of its food business.
Source: Financial Times
