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Unilever sells Welly to Forward Consumer Partners

The first-aid brand returns to private equity ownership as Unilever trims its portfolio

M&A News deals deskConsumer / Consumer health · United States, Americas19 Oct 2026

Forward Consumer Partners said on 19 October 2026 that it had agreed to buy Welly Health, the first-aid brand, from Unilever. Terms were not disclosed.

Why Forward Consumer Partners is buying Welly Health PBC (from Unilever)

Forward said Welly was a powerful brand with an enduring track record and significant untapped potential. It is the firm's eighth investment and its first in consumer health.

“Welly is a textbook Forward asset: a powerful brand that makes beloved products, with an enduring track record of success and significant untapped potential.”Matt Leeds, Founder and Managing Partner, Forward Consumer Partners

Deal terms and financing

Financial terms were not disclosed. Welly co-founder Eric Ryan will rejoin as strategic adviser and board member.

Regulatory approvals and timing

Closing is expected by the end of 2026, subject to customary conditions.

Market context

Unilever bought a majority stake in Welly in 2021. Forward Consumer Partners manages about US$925m.

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