French dairy giant Danone has entered into an agreement to acquire a majority stake in British firm Harrogate Water for an undisclosed amount.
Harrogate Water is a family-owned bottled water business with core strengths in foodservice and on-the-go consumption. The current shareholders of Harrogate Water, the Cain family, will remain as minority shareholders. CEO James Cain will join the management team of Danone Waters UK and continue to lead the business.
Danone already owns several water brands, including Evian and Volvic. The group stated that the acquisition will further develop its position in the UK and support future growth for Harrogate Water’s portfolio.
It will provide “new opportunities” for both businesses to deliver growth across complementary channels, combining the respective know-how of Harrogate Water in foodservice and Out of Home channels and Danone Water in retail channels with its Evian and Volvic brands.
James Pearson, Managing Director of Danone Waters UK & Ireland, said: “I am thrilled to welcome Harrogate Water to the Danone family. This move will expand our offering in the UK and help to meet growing demand in sparkling water and on-the-go consumption.”
