Unilever Agrees to Sell Welly First-Aid Brand to Forward Consumer Partners

Unilever has agreed to sell Welly Health PBC, a U.S. first-aid brand, to Forward Consumer Partners, moving the brand toward independent ownership as the consumer goods company reshapes its portfolio.

The transaction was announced Oct. 19. No purchase price was disclosed. Under the planned carveout, Welly is expected to operate as an independent company wholly owned by Forward after the sale closes.

At closing, founder Eric Ryan is slated to rejoin the company in advisory and board roles. Unilever acquired a 51% stake in Welly Health on Jan. 29, 2021.

The planned sale follows another portfolio move by Unilever. In March, the company agreed to combine its Foods business with McCormick. Unilever has also said it plans to continue reshaping its portfolio through acquisitions and selective disposals.

The Welly transaction remains subject to closing conditions and is expected to close by the end of 2026.