Snyder’s-Lance acquires remaining 74% stake in Metcalfe’s skinny

Snyder's-Lance's subsidiary Kettle Foods has completed the acquisition of Metcalfe's skinny (Metcalfe) with the purchase of the remaining 74% stake.

Kettle Foods had initially purchased a 26% stake in Metcalfe in January. 

The UK's leading popcorn brand, Metcalfe was founded in 2009 by Julian Metcalfe, the co-founder of Pret A Manger and founder of itsu. The company also incorporates a range of corn and rice cake products.

Snyder's-Lance president and chief executive officer Carl Lee said: “We see tremendous growth in the UK with additional opportunities for further international expansion for our innovative collection of snacking brands.

“This addition to our branded portfolio provides us with another better-for-you option in a growth snacking category in the European markets, and we look forward to supporting the continued success of the Metcalfe's skinny brands.”

Metcalfe previous co-owners Julian Metcalfe and Robert Jakobi said: “We are delighted about the opportunity for the Metcalfe's skinny brand to expand with the support and expertise of the Kettle Foods and Snyder's-Lance organisation.

“This is a unique opportunity to bring our snacking talents together under one roof to truly give Metcalfe's skinny the international opportunity it deserves.

“This is a positive step on many levels that we know will not only showcase the brand's potential, but will benefit our customers in the long term as well.”

According to a research, the UK popcorn market is the fastest growing category within the country's snack food industry, growing by 45% over the last two years with consumers increasingly seeking out better-for-you snacking options.

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Image: Snyder's-Lance acquires Metcalfe's skinny. Photo: courtesy of Snyder's-Lance.