The wellness sector is thriving, with founder-led brands – many led by women – attracting significant attention from global investors. In the past year, a number of UK wellness brands were acquired by major players like Unilever and Yeo Valley Organic, reflecting the growing demand for purpose-driven businesses.

What’s driving this shift?
• A strong focus on health, sustainability, and authenticity.
• Founder-led, values-driven businesses have become the go-to choice for strategic buyers, with global companies increasingly looking to acquire high-growth brands that resonate with today’s health-conscious consumer.

Whether it’s Deliciously Ella creating plant-based food without ultra-processed ingredients or Wild leading the charge in sustainable personal care—these brands aren’t just competing, they’re creating new categories and new opportunities in the market.

The trend is clear: International investors are more eager than ever to acquire wellness-focused brands that are transforming industries.

Rebecca McCredie, Director of M&A at Cavendish, commented:

“This report reflects what we’re seeing day to day: it’s not just that health-conscious and purpose-led brands are being acquired—it’s that they’re changing what buyers are looking for. The brands leading this shift are founder-led, data-literate, and clear about who they serve. At Cavendish, we see our role as helping those founders shape what’s next—on their terms.”