Food major Danone has reached a €1 billion agreement to acquire UK-based nutrition brand Huel, marking a significant step into the fast-growing functional nutrition sector, media reports said.
The deal supports Danone’s ‘Renew Danone’ strategy, focused on expanding its presence in health-driven food categories, and will use its global infrastructure to scale Huel beyond its core markets in the UK, US, and Europe.
Founded in 2015, Huel has built its reputation on plant-based meal replacements, including powders, ready-to-drink shakes, hot meals, and nutrition bars.
The acquisition is expected to deliver substantial returns for stakeholders, with co-founder Julian Hearn reportedly set to earn around £400 million, alongside notable investors such as Idris Elba and Jonathan Ross. The transaction is still subject to regulatory approval and standard closing conditions.
Danone plans to leverage its global reach and R&D capabilities to accelerate Huel’s international growth beyond its core markets in the UK, US, and Europe.
James McMaster, Huel’s chief executive, was quoted by BBC as saying, “Most people don’t get enough protein, fiber, or the right nutrients. That’s the problem Huel exists to solve.
“With Danone, we will now have the infrastructure, distribution and R&D (research and development) capability to go further, into new markets and to more people.”
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Naresh Khanna – 10 February 2025
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