A report in the UK media has linked local sports nutrition business Applied Nutrition with a “£1bn ($1.25bn) London float”.

Sky News reported that it has learnt that Applied Nutrition, which is based in Liverpool in north-west England, has been interviewing investment bankers in recent weeks about a listing that could take place in the autumn.

Applied Nutrition has a portfolio of products including nutrition supplements, energy and hydration drinks and protein cookies. The company markets the products under brands including BodyFuel and ABE – All Black Everything. It is backed by local retail heavyweight JD Sports.

Sky News pointed out that if a flotation should happen at the size predicted, it would rank among the largest in the UK this year.

However, the broadcaster quoted one person “close to the situation” cautioning that no firm decision had been taken to press ahead with an initial public offering (IPO).

Founded in 2014, Applied Nutrition, which sells its products in 65 countries, is the official nutrition partner of a range of English Football League clubs, including Bolton Wanderers, as well as the Scottish Premiership side Glasgow Rangers.

Its products are sold online and also via retailers including US supermarket giant Walmart.

JD Sports owns just under a third of Applied Nutrition – having bought the stake in 2021 – while the company’s founder, Thomas Ryder, holds a majority share.

Sky News reported that Applied Nutrition has seen rapid growth in sales and profits in recent years, aided by the establishment of a US operation, and has set a £100m sales target for the current financial year.

Applied Nutrition and JD Sports Fashion both declined to comment when contacted by Sky News. Just Food also also asked Applied Nutrition for its response to the story but was told it had no comment at present.