Unilever to acquire US yogurt brand Yasso

Unilever announced Thursday that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Yasso Holdings, a premium frozen Greek yogurt brand in the US.

Founded in Boston in 2009 by childhood friends Amanda Klane and Drew Harrington, Yasso is a pioneer in convenient frozen snacks, offering a high-quality range of low-calorie yet indulgent products.

Unilever said the acquisition is aligned to the premiumisation strategy of its ice cream business group. Yasso joins other premium brands in the portfolio including Ben & Jerry’s, Magnum and Talenti.

“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,” Matt Close, president, ice cream at Unilever, said.

“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.”

Amanda Klane and Drew Harrington, Yasso co-founders, said: “We are forever grateful for the team members, consumers, and business partners who supported us along this entrepreneurial journey. With Unilever, we have selected the best partner in the world, who believes in Yasso’s vision and purpose of spreading joy to consumers everywhere.”

Craig Shiesley, Yasso chief executive, added: “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.