UK regulator clears Danone's €1bn acquisition of British nutrition brand Huel

The UK Competition and Markets Authority has cleared Danone's €1bn (£864m) acquisition of British meal-supplement maker Huel following a comprehensive assessment. Huel, launched in 2015 in Hertfordshire by Julian Hearn, offers nutritionally complete, plant-based foods including shakes, ready meals, bars and drinks, and has seen rapid growth. Danone, which already markets UK brands such as Aptamil, Cow & Gate, Activia, Actimel, Evian and Volvic, said the purchase will strengthen its position in the nutrition sector and support Huel's ambition for broader international expansion.

The CMA opened a comment period to evaluate any potential reduction in market competition, ultimately concluding the deal could proceed in its current form. Huel previously attracted scrutiny from the UK advertising watchdog for misleading cost-saving claims in its marketing. Danone and Huel have been approached for comment.