Australian snack company Arnott’s Group has acquired Prolife Foods’ three snacking brands: Mother Earth, Flemings, and Value Pack (VP).
Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
The New Zealand brands will now become part of Arnott’s expanding portfolio of “better-for-you” cereals and snacks, which includes names such as Freedom, Sunsol, and Snack Right in the New Zealand market.
Mother Earth, a “well-known” brand in New Zealand, offers muesli bars, baked slices, nuts, and snacks.
It is also said to have a growing presence in Australia and is stocked in major supermarkets across New Zealand.
Arnott’s stated that Mother Earth is the “most trusted brand” name in the muesli and snack bars category, becoming a staple for many consumers.
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Flemings and VP are also recognised in New Zealand’s nutritional snacking market, offering a range of bars, nuts, and snack mixes.
Arnott’s managing director for New Zealand Mike Cullerne said: “Kiwi-born food brands have proven themselves popular in international markets, which is why we intend to build upon the existing brand loyalty for Mother Earth, Flemings and VP, expanding both their ranges and distribution.
“It is great that, in an environment where demand for nutritious snacks continues to rise, we are able to take three local brands and introduce them to new markets and consumers, whilst continuing to invest in local manufacturing.”
Prolife Foods CEO Andrew Smith said: “Over the past 15 years we have significantly grown the Mother Earth brand into a much loved and recognised snacking brand in New Zealand. Leveraging The Arnott’s Group’s scale and expertise, the brand will now be able to reach more consumers across Australia and beyond.
“We will continue to support The Arnott’s Group at our Hamilton site, while we focus on growing our self selection business (including The Carefillery and the Refill Station) and our vertically integrated Manuka honey business in NZ and internationally.”
The acquisition follows Arnott’s 2021 purchase of New Zealand-based artisan cracker brand, 180degrees, and the construction of a 3,900m2 manufacturing facility in Avondale in 2023.
This facility serves as a hub for innovation in the premium entertaining category.
Arnott’s production at its Avondale, west Auckland facility marked its return to New Zealand 25 years after closing its previous factory in Otahuhu in 1997.
Announcing the plans for the “multi-million-dollar” factory in 2022 Arnott’s said facility forms part of its strategy to scale up its footprint in the country.
