Samworth Brothers, the UK branded and private-label supplier, has entered the country's sports nutrition market through the acquisition of local firm SCI-MX.
Lindsey Pownall, Samworth's chief executive, said sports nutrition represented a "new and high-growth sector" for the business. "This is an exciting development for Samworth Brothers," she said.
Citing Nielsen data for the 52 weeks to 20 June, Samworth said SCI-MX is "the fastest growing sports nutrition brand in the grocery sector".
The company sells powder, capsule and convenience sports nutrition products. Its SCI-MX Pro2Go flapjack is "the UK’s number one sports nutrition protein bar", Samworth added.
SCI-MX products are listed in the UK's major supermarket chains, as well as pharmacy and health-focused retailers like Holland & Barrett, Boots and Superdrug, a Samworth spokesperson said. It also sells online.
"The rationale for the acquisition is entry into a high growth sector that will also benefit from Samworth Brothers' key strengths in areas such as retailer relationships and brand development," the spokesperson told just-food today (1 October). "The sports nutrition convenience category is a fast growing area and Samworth Brothers has a strong food-to-go track record."
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataTrayl Wallace, the managing director at SCI-MX, said: "Our vision at SCI-MX is to become a household name for healthy, high protein, convenient snacking. The sports nutrition market has evolved significantly in recent years, moving from the niche end of exercise, to becoming synonymous with a healthy lifestyle, thus presenting a huge value gap for future growth."
The deal marks the latest new category for a Samworth business that has – with exception of Ginsters Cornish pasties and Dickinson & Morris pork pies – focused on private label in recent years.
In February last year, Samworth snapped up fruit and malt loaf brand Soreen from baker McCambridge Group.