Unilever has entered into an agreement to acquire Yasso Holdings, Inc., a premium frozen Greek yogurt brand in the United States. The transaction, terms of which were not disclosed, is expected to close in the third quarter of 2023, subject to regulatory approvals and closing conditions.
Founded in Boston in 2009 by childhood friends Amanda Klane and Drew Harrington, Boulder, Colorado-based Yasso is a pioneer in convenient frozen snacks, offering a range of low-calorie yet indulgent products.
The acquisition is aligned to the heightened premium product strategy of Unilever’s Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey-based ce Cream Business Group in the USA. Yasso joins other premium brands in the portfolio including Ben & Jerry’s, Magnum and Talenti.
Yasso’s products respond to growing demand in North America for on-the-go, healthier and indulgent frozen snacks. The products in the current Yasso range each contain less than 150 calories.
Matt Close, president of Unilever’s ice cream division, stated: “I am delighted to welcome Yasso to the Unilever family. It has built a strong customer appeal in the fast-growing, premium ‘Better For You’ segment. This acquisition is a great step in the evolution of our ice cream portfolio in North America towards high growth spaces. I am confident that with the full support of Unilever behind Yasso, we will take this fast-growing business to even greater heights.”
Yasso CEO Craig Shiesley commented: “We are excited to join Unilever and become part of the world renowned family of Ice Cream and Novelties brands. I’m proud of our company growth and we look forward to working with Unilever to expand the global footprint of our incredible brand.”
The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2023, subject to regulatory approvals and closing conditions.
