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LONDON — Consumer products giant Unilever plans to acquire eco-friendly household and personal care products maker Seventh Generation Inc.
Financial terms of the agreement weren’t disclosed. Unilever said completion transaction is pending regulatory approvals.
Unilever described Burlington, Vt.-based Seventh Generation as a “pioneer in corporate responsibility and sustainable product innovations,” including plant-based detergents and household cleaners.
“Seventh Generation has long been a disruptor in the U.S. marketplace, leading the industry in sustainable innovation while attracting new generations of conscious consumers,” Nitin Paranjpe, president of Unilever’s home care business, said in a statement. “This addition to Unilever’s product portfolio will help us meet rising demand for high-quality products with a purpose.”
Though best known for its “green” home products — which span such categories as dishwashing, surface cleaners, disinfectants and laundry — Seventh Generation also offers items in baby care (diapers, wipes and skin care) and feminine care (organic tampons and pads), as well as recycled paper and trash bags.
The company’s broad product lineup and distribution network, serving North America, cover the natural category in grocery, mass merchant and e-commerce channels, Unilever noted.
“We’re thrilled to add Seventh Generation to our brand portfolio, providing us with the opportunity to accelerate growth with our retail partners and connect in new ways with consumers,” stated Kees Kruythoff, president of Unilever North America. “Adding Seventh Generation to Unilever’s portfolio of purpose-driven brands like Ben & Jerry’s and Dove demonstrates our continued commitment to the Unilever Sustainable Living Plan.”
Unilever reported that Seventh Generation’s turnover topped $200 million last year, and the company has generated double-digit compounded annual growth over the past 10 years.
“For 28 years, Seventh Generation has been creating products that are not only effective but also designed with environmental and human health in mind, while demonstrating that business can have a greater purpose, serving not just profit but people and the planet as well,” commented Seventh Generation chief executive officer John Replogle said. “Today marks the next chapter, and we’re proud to join Unilever and its shared vision for purpose-led business on a global scale. Working together we are confident we can have a positive impact on the health of billions of people around the world, truly fulfilling our mission of nurturing the next seven generations while transforming global commerce.”
