Hershey, the US confectionery and snacks firm, has announced a minority investment in the Ireland-based functional food firm Fulfil via its C7 Ventures arm.
Founded in 2016, Fulfil produces vitamin-fortified, high-protein, low-sugar nutrition bars made from ingredients such as soy, whey protein and chocolate, which it markets in the UK and Ireland.
Commenting on the launch, Hersey chief growth officer Mary Beth West said: “Successful companies evolve and engage consumers in new and different ways. As we continue to expand our snacking portfolio, our innovation agenda takes a balanced approach across investing in core brands and experimenting with new business models. This includes creating new platforms through R&D, strategic acquisitions and investments in businesses that are sitting at the cross section of new consumer snacking needs”.
The company added that the partnership would create opportunities “in new occasions among new consumer segments and markets”.
Source: Hershey / Fulfil