ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, NJ. — Unilever is acquiring Yasso Holding, Inc., Boulder, Colo., a manufacturer of frozen Greek yogurt snacks. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
Yasso debuted in 2011 and today its product portfolio features frozen Greek yogurt bars, sandwiches and bites. All the products contain less than 150 calories.
“This acquisition is a great step in the evolution of our ice cream portfolio in North America toward high growth spaces,” said Matt Close, president of ice cream for Unilever. “I am confident that with the full support of Unilever behind Yasso, we will take this fast-growing business to even greater heights.”
Yasso’s business has benefited from several overlapping trends over the years. Shoppers reached for comfort foods that made them feel good during the pandemic while also seeking health-forward and low-calorie options.
“We credit our growth and success to an incredible product that’s meeting the shifting consumer demands,” said Craig Shiesley, chief executive officer of Yasso, in an October 2022 interview with Food Business News. “It’s a marriage of consumers’ desire for superior taste and nutritious offerings.”
The acquisition aligns with Unilever’s ice cream premiumization strategy, according to the company. Yasso will join a brand portfolio that also includes Ben & Jerry’s, Magnum and Talenti.
“We are forever grateful for the team members, consumers, and business partners who supported us along this entrepreneurial journey,” said Amanda Klane and Drew Harrington, the co-Founders of Yasso. “With Unilever, we have selected the best partner in the world, who believes in Yasso’s vision and purpose of spreading joy to consumers everywhere.”
