Unilever sells Graze to Candy Kittens' parent company Katjes International

Unilever has announced the sale of its healthier snacking brand, Graze, to Katjes International, the parent company behind the popular confectionery label Candy Kittens.

The transaction, expected to close in the first half of 2026, aligns with Unilever’s ongoing strategy to streamline its portfolio and shift focus toward its higher-growth beauty and wellness categories.

Unilever acquired Graze in 2019 to strengthen its presence in the health-conscious snack market. Since then, Graze has transitioned from a primarily direct-to-consumer business to a strong UK retail player, achieving significant growth and improved profitability. The brand also underwent a visual refresh under Unilever, broadening its appeal to mainstream shoppers.

Georgina Bradford, general manager of UKI Foods at Unilever, said:

“Graze has redefined healthy snacking with innovations that prioritise nutrition without compromising on taste. We believe it is now well-positioned for its next phase of growth under Katjes International.”

Katjes International views Graze as a complementary addition to its expanding brand portfolio.

Bastian Fassin, managing shareholder at Katjes, commented:

“Graze is a leading healthy snacking brand in the UK. Its strong awareness aligns perfectly with our strategy to grow consumer-centric brands that resonate with health-conscious consumers.”

Candy Kittens founder Jamie Laing added:

“Graze changed the way the UK thinks about healthier snacking. I am excited about the potential to further develop this innovative brand.”

Unilever has indicated plans to divest additional legacy food brands as it leans into categories such as condiments and meal solutions—reflecting broader shifts in consumer demand toward health, convenience and wellness.

Although financial terms were not disclosed, the sale is expected to strengthen Katjes International’s presence in the competitive healthy snacking segment.