Unilever PLC (LSE:ULVR) has agreed the sale of two of its oldest brands, Dutch brand Unox and Belgium’s Zwan, to the Zwanenberg Food Group.
A part of the Unilever portfolio for almost 100 years, the Anglo-Dutch group said the sale was to sharpen up its food portfolio and focus on fewer and bigger brands.
"The meat and soup products of Unox and Zwan require a distinct supply chain, sourcing model and set of technological and R&D capabilities, making them less scalable within the broader Unilever Foods portfolio," the company said in a statement.
Noodles and Cup-a-Soup products are not part of the deal and will remain as part of the mini-meals offering, added the statement.
Heiko Schipper, president Unilever Foods, said, “Unox is a beloved and iconic brand in the Netherlands and the decision to part with it has not been easy.
"The association with Dutch winter activities, such as the New Year's Dive in Scheveningen and ice-skating events, along with its distinctive orange hat branding and wide range of award-winning advertising campaigns, has cemented Unox’s place in Dutch culture.
“Zwan is a cherished brand in Belgium, associated with comfort and nostalgia and with quick and easy meals, making the brand a beloved part of everyday Belgium life.
Sjoerd van der Laan, CEO of Zwanenberg Food Group, said, “The Unox and Zwan brands are a wonderful addition to our range. We are a broad food company with strong brands.
"After the acquisition of the Unilever factory in Oss in 2018, the acquisition of the Unox and Zwan brands is a great addition that fits in perfectly with our ambitions.”
No financial details of the deal were released but it is expected to complete in 2025.
Shares in Unilever dipped slightly to 4,617p.