Danone Clears Final UK Hurdle in €1bn Huel Buyout

Danone has received approval from the UK's Competition and Markets Authority for its acquisition of vegan meal-replacement brand Huel, valued at around €1 billion. The regulator determined that the deal would not weaken competition in the UK market and did not require any remedies or further investigation. This clears the final hurdle for Danone to move forward with the acquisition.

Huel provides nutritionally complete plant-based products, including powders, shakes, and snack bars. The company reported revenues of £254 million in its latest financial year, with a significant presence in the UK market. Danone's purchase of Huel aligns with its Renew Danone strategy, focusing on functional and specialised nutrition, and follows previous acquisitions in the medical nutrition and microbiome sectors.