USA – Unilever, consumer goods company, has inked an agreement to purchase Liquid IV, a US health-science nutrition and wellness company for an undisclosed amount.

Founded in 2012, Liquid IV offers a portfolio of electrolyte drink mixes such as Hydration, Energy and Sleep, which can be found in more than 30,000 stores across the US, including the world’s leading specialty, big box and online retailers such as Costco, Target, Whole Foods Market, Amazon, CVS, Walgreens, Albertsons, and many more.

The brand utilises Cellular Transport Technology (CTT) in its products which it says enhances the rapid absorption of water and key nutrients into the bloodstream, with the intention of helping consumers “feel better, faster”.

“Liquid IV is an impressive and innovative brand in the fast-growing health, wellness and personal nutrition space.

“Liquid IV shares Unilever’s purpose to improve people’s health and wellbeing, as well as our ambition to create sustainable products that have a positive social impact,” Fabian Garcia, president of Unilever North America, said.

Liquid IV claims that one serving of its non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free and soy-free range can provide up to 2-3 times the hydration of water alone.

In 2018, the California-based brand secured US$5 million in a Series B funding round with plans to expand its distribution and product innovation, reports Foodbev.

“We are excited to work together with Unilever to scale the brand and amplify Liquid IV’s mission to help people everywhere live better lives – to optimise the body, hydrate those in need, and better the planet,” Brandin Cohen, Liquid IV founder and CEO, said.

Following the transaction, Liquid IV will continue to be based in El Segundo, California, and led by Brandin Cohen, who will remain as CEO and founder of the firm.

It will join Unilever’s portfolio of food and beverage brands such as Lipton, Knorr, Hellmann’s and Magnum.

The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.

Liquid I.V. was created to fuel life’s adventures. Their drink mixes are great tasting, non-GMO, made in the USA, and contain no artificial ingredients.

As part of their 1 to1 Giveback Mission to Change the World, Liquid I.V. has donated over 5M servings to people in need around the globe.

Liked this article? Subscribe to Food Business Africa News, our regular email newsletters with the latest news insights from Africa and the World’s food and agro industry. SUBSCRIBE HERE