Unilever explores bid for supplements maker Thorne, FT reports
Unilever's Interest in Thorne and Market Implications
Background of the Potential Acquisition
June 26 (Reuters) - Unilever is exploring a bid for Thorne, a U.S. supplements maker valued at up to $4 billion, the Financial Times reported on Friday, as the consumer goods group accelerates its pivot towards beauty and wellbeing brands.
Previous Ownership and Valuation
Thorne was acquired by LVMH-backed private equity firm L Catterton for $680 million in 2023.
Competing Bids and Strategic Interest
Thorne has attracted strategic interests, including a bid from consumer healthcare group Haleon, two sources familiar with the matter had told Reuters.
Details on Bidders and Product Portfolio
Unilever is among several bidders for the South Carolina-based company, which sells dietary supplements including magnesium and omega-3 primarily in the U.S, according to FT.
Responses and Comments from Involved Parties
Unilever and L Catterton declined to comment. Thorne and Haleon could not be immediately reached for comment.
(Reporting by Nithyashree R B in Bengaluru and Abigail Summerville in New York, Richa Naidu in London; additional reporting by Rishab Shaju; Editing by Devika Syamnath)
