AG Barr acquires majority stake in The Turmeric Co to expand functional drinks portfolio
The acquisition deepens AG Barr’s investment in health-focused beverages and supports growth in the functional drinks and supplements sector.
SCOTLAND – AG Barr, the Scottish soft drinks group best known for its Irn-Bru brand, has acquired a majority stake in The Turmeric Co, a specialist health drinks company founded by former Wales international footballer Hal Robson-Kanu.
The acquisition, for an undisclosed sum, was confirmed through filings at Companies House, indicating that AG Barr now owns between 50% and 75% of Innate-Essence Limited, the company behind The Turmeric Co.
Founded in 2018, the London-based Turmeric Co has established a strong presence in the functional beverage market.
The brand is known for its turmeric-based wellness shots and holds partnerships with sports organisations such as Premier League football clubs Brentford and Everton, rugby side Leicester Tigers, and British Gymnastics.
Following the acquisition, AG Barr’s chief executive Euan Sutherland and chief financial officer Stuart Lorimer have been appointed joint directors of Innate-Essence Limited.
A company spokesperson said, “We have acquired a stake in Innate-Essence Ltd, which owns a number of speciality health drinks, including The Turmeric Co. These brands are in the high-growth functional beverages and vitamin & supplements sectors, and we’re excited to bring our deep industry experience to support their future growth.”
The move reflects AG Barr’s strategic push into the health and wellness segment. The group, which also owns Rubicon, Boost, and Funkin, reported revenue of £420.4 million (US$491.3M) for the financial year ending 31 January 2025—a 5.1% year-over-year increase. Adjusted pre-tax profit rose nearly 16% to £58 million (US$67.8M).
AG Barr continues to refine its portfolio. In March, it announced plans to discontinue its Strathmore bottled water brand, citing sustainability issues at its Forfar site.
In June, it also introduced KA Blue Krush, a limited-edition sparkling drink, as part of its growing soft drink offerings.
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