Global fast moving consumer goods giant, Unilever, has expanded its ice cream product line as it entered into a strategic partnership to acquire Yasso Holdings, Inc., a premium frozen Greek yoghurt brand in the U.S.

Unilever disclosed that its move to acquire the ice cream brand was inspired by the fact that more consumers are looking for healthier ways to indulge and a brand like Yasso, with treats containing no fewer than 150 calories, brings an on-trend way to do that.

Matt Close, President Ice Cream Unilever said: “I am delighted to welcome Yasso to the Unilever family. It has built a strong customer appeal in the fast-growing, premium ‘Better for You’ segment. This acquisition is a great step in the evolution of our Ice Cream portfolio in North America towards high growth spaces. I am confident that with the full support of Unilever behind Yasso, we will take this fast-growing business to even greater heights.

“We are forever grateful for the team members, consumers, and business partners who supported us along this entrepreneurial journey. With Unilever, we have selected the best partner in the world, who believes in Yasso’s vision and purpose of spreading joy to consumers everywhere.”

The brand, according to Unilever, is notable for its low calorie frozen treat and has also sustained its position as a pioneer in convenient frozen snacks, especially for its unique offering of a high-quality range of low-calorie yet indulgent products.

Although no amount has been disclosed on the purchase, the buyer noted that the business transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2023, subject to regulatory approvals and closing conditions. Unilever said the purchase of Yasso brings another premium brand to the extension of its ice cream portfolios which is aiming to increase high quality brands and offerings.

Matt Close, President of Ice Cream Unilever said: “I am delighted to welcome Yasso to the Unilever family. It has built a strong customer appeal in the fast-growing, premium ‘Better For You’ segment. This acquisition is a great step in the evolution of our Ice Cream portfolio in North America towards high growth spaces. I am confident that with the full support of Unilever behind Yasso, we will take this fast-growing business to even greater heights.”

Amanda Klane and Drew Harrington, Co-Founders of Yasso elatedly responded: “We are forever grateful for the team members, consumers, and business partners who supported us along this entrepreneurial journey. With Unilever, we have selected the best partner in the world, who believes in Yasso’s vision and purpose of spreading joy to consumers everywhere.”

Craig Shiesley, CEO of  Yasso also said: “We are excited to join Unilever and become part of the world renowned family of Ice Cream and Novelties brands. I’m proud of our company’s growth and we look forward to working with Unilever to expand the global footprint of our incredible brand.”

Yasso was founded in Boston in 2009 by childhood best friends Amanda Klane and Drew Harrington who today are vibrant turned entrepreneurs. Drew Harrington and Amanda Klane set out on a mission to create snacks that deliver on everyday indulgence with great taste, quality ingredients and superb nutritionals. Since hitting store shelves in 2011 as the first to market frozen Greek yogurt, Yasso quickly became one of the fastest-growing novelty brands, attracting a loyal following of brand enthusiasts.

Yasso currently offers 11 flavours of novelty stick Bars, four flavours of Chocolate Crunch Bars, three frozen Greek yogurt Sandwiches, three flavours of bite-size Yasso Poppables and four Yasso Mochi, all of which can be found at grocery and club stores nationwide.