Danone Acquires Huel to Strengthen Health-Focused Nutrition Portfolio

Danone, the prominent French food company, has finalized a definitive agreement to acquire Huel, a British leader in plant-based meal replacements, for close to €1 billion ($1.15 billion). The acquisition aligns with Danone's strategic focus on health-oriented nutrition, as confirmed by CEO Antoine de Saint-Affrique. He noted that Huel's offerings resonate with Danone's mission of promoting health through food.

Founded in 2014, Huel specializes in nutritionally complete meal replacements and high-protein snacks, targeting consumers who prioritize health and convenience. The company has seen remarkable growth, generating £214 million (€247.1 million) in revenue in 2024. Huel's CEO, James McMaster, expressed optimism about expanding into new markets, attributing this potential to Danone's extensive infrastructure, distribution network, and R&D capabilities.

The global market for complete nutrition products is projected to reach $5.9 billion (€5.14 billion) by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% over the next decade, according to Future Market Insights. This acquisition places Danone in a strong position to capture a significant share of this growing market.

Danone is one of the largest food companies globally, with a diverse portfolio that includes dairy and plant-based products, bottled water, and specialized nutrition, generating over €27 billion in annual sales. The company has shown confidence in its growth prospects, as evidenced by its robust sales performance in China, North Asia, and Oceania in 2025.

Although Danone has not disclosed the exact purchase price for Huel, the strategic acquisition underscores its commitment to expanding its presence in the health-focused nutrition sector.