AG Barr invests in Innate-Essence, Thomas Hal Robson-Kanu’s functional drinks brand
AG Barr invests in Innate-Essence, Thomas Hal Robson-Kanu’s functional drinks brand
BDO has been revealed as the adviser to Innate-Essence Limited, which has secured a majority investment from AG Barr Plc, a leading UK-listed beverage manufacturer, and home to brands such as Irn Bru, Funkin Cocktails and Boost Drinks.
Innate-Essence, the functional beverage manufacturing business behind The Turmeric Co. and Raw Hydrate brands was founded by former Wales international and Premier League footballer, Thomas Hal Robson-Kanu. He was inspired to launch the business after finding turmeric shots invaluable in recovering from a potentially career-ending knee injury.
Innate-Essence has established a unique position in the market through its effective, functional product range supported by clinical research. BDO LLP and Pinsent Masons advised Innate-Essence on the investment process.
The capital invested alongside the AG Barr partnership will enable the business to turbo charge global expansion, further develop the brand’s retail proposition and invest more deeply into marketing.
Growth to date has been underpinned by monthly recurring subscriptions, successful nationwide launches in Sainsbury’s and Ocado, UK-wide placement in David Lloyd Clubs and strategic partnerships with Premier League teams such as Everton FC & Brentford FC, Premiership Rugby teams Sale Sharks & Leicester Tigers and British Gymnastics.
Founder and CEO, Thomas Hal Robson-Kanu, said: “I created the brand as a convenient and great-tasting way to support wellness-conscious individuals and sportspeople like me. We’ve had a remarkable few years but with this latest milestone and such heavyweight backing, it feels like our journey is just beginning – we’ve unlocked a new level. The international potential is huge, and we can’t wait to see what we achieve next. BDO’s understanding of our sector and M&A expertise has been key to our success and getting this investment over the line.”
Lorna Hopkinson led the deal for BDO. She adds: “Having worked with Thomas since his Series A investment in 2023, this latest deal is testament to the fact that with an exceptional leader, clear vision and a quality product, UK consumer brands can scale – at pace. This is a significant deal in the sector and positions the brand for global success.”
ENDS
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About Innate-Essence
Founded by international footballer, Thomas Hal Robson-Kanu, Inante-Essence Limited is a leading functional nutrition brand that harness the potential of nature to enhance health. The Company currently offers a great-tasting range of blends within its Turmeric Co range, alongside the watermelon based Raw Hydrate range, as well as providing private label manufacturing for Sainsbury’s Healthy Juices and Kitchen Deli Juice ranges.
Developed over 20 years and validated through clinical trials, Innate-Essence delivers award-winning drinks that slot seamlessly into the daily routines of people from all walks of life. Designed to support health-conscious individuals along their wellness journey, Innate Essence’s blends are noted to nutritionally fuel recovery, performance, immunity and energy.
The convenient drinks contain zero added sugar or preservatives, come freshly chilled and can be consumed alone, or incorporated into food and drink such as breakfast smoothie bowls or in tea with warm water and honey.
Sustainability is at the heart of Innate-Essence’s ethos, demonstrated by ethically sourced ingredients which support local agro-entrepreneurs. All products are bottled in fully recyclable, eco-friendly packaging.
Innate-Essence has recently been selected by Channel 4 and Lloyds Bank as one of the 5 beneficiaries for the ‘Black in Business’ initiative. As a winner, Innate-Essence received £100,000s worth of TV advertising, a bespoke TV commercial produced, and 6 months’ worth of mentorship from professionals at Channel 4 and Lloyds Bank.
About BDO
BDO LLP operates in 18 offices across the UK, employing 8,000 people. It has UK revenues of £1bn.
It provides Audit, Tax, Deals, and Consulting, Risk & Outsourcing services predominantly to mid-sized, entrepreneurially-spirited, high-growth businesses that are driving growth in the UK economy. BDO calls this segment of the market the UK’s economic engine.
BDO LLP is the UK member firm of the BDO international network.
BDO’s global network
The BDO global network provides business advisory services in 166 countries and territories, with more than 119,000 people working out of 1,800 offices worldwide. It has revenues of US$15bn.
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