Unilever explores bid for $4bn supplements maker Thorne

British consumer goods giant Unilever is reportedly considering a bid for Thorne, the South Carolina-based supplements maker, with the business said to be valued at up to $4 billion.

Reuters reported that Unilever is one of several bidders exploring an acquisition of the company, while British multinational consumer healthcare firm Haleon has also been linked to separate strategic interest in Thorne. All parties declined to comment on the reports.

The reported valuation represents a sharp increase from 2023, when private equity firm L Catterton acquired Thorne for $680 million. The deal, completed at $10.20 per share, saw Japanese trading house Mitsui divest its 29.1% stake in the business as part of the take-private transaction.

Thorne describes itself as a science-driven wellness company focused on personalised approaches to health. Its product range includes nutritional supplements, such as magnesium and omega-3 formulations, alongside testing services and home test kits. The company has a strong presence in the US market, but its products are also available in the UK through Healf.

The business has expanded rapidly under L Catterton's ownership. CNBC reported in April 2026 that Thorne surpassed $500 million in annual revenue in 2025 and was on track to reach $650 million in 2026.

Although Thorne sits outside the traditional beauty category, the reported interest reflects continued corporate appetite for science-backed wellness assets that complement beauty and self-care portfolios.

Supplements, ingestibles and personalised health products have become an increasingly important area of overlap with the broader beauty industry, as consumers adopt more holistic approaches to skin health and overall wellbeing.

For Unilever, a deal would represent a deeper move into the premium wellness market at a time when legacy consumer goods companies are seeking new avenues for sustainable growth.