Swiss food and drink powerhouse Nestlé has sold UK recipe-kit business SimplyCook to ingredient and flavouring supplier Jardox, marking the end of its ownership of the direct-to-consumer brand.
London-based SimplyCook was founded by Oli Ashness in 2014 and offers recipe kits featuring pre-portioned flavour blends and accompanying cooking instructions.
The manufacturer acquired the company in February 2021 for an undisclosed amount. The financial terms of the sale to Jardox have also not been disclosed.
Nestlé has been steadily streamlining its portfolio through a series of disposals and strategic reviews over the past year.
In September, the group sold its mainstream vitamins, minerals and supplements brands, including Nature’s Bounty and Nuun, to US private-equity firm Yellow Wood Partners for $1 billion.
The company is also exploring options for New Zealand-based supplement maker The Better Health Company, owner of the Go Healthy brand.
In July, Nestlé agreed to divest a 50% stake in its waters and premium beverages business to private-equity firm Platinum Equity, creating a joint venture known as Peranel.
Three months earlier, the company sold its majority stake in German herbs, spices and seasonings brand Ankerkraut back to founders Anne and Stefan Lemcke.
In a statement announcing the sale, a Nestlé spokesperson said: “SimplyCook has been sold to Jardox. This sale supports Nestlé’s focus on simplifying our business to drive growth. SimplyCook is a unique business with a strong brand and a differentiated proposition in the UK meal kit market.
“Since joining Nestlé, the business has continued to build a loyal customer base and develop its offering. Jardox has a long-standing partnership with SimplyCook, making it a natural fit to take the business to its next chapter.”
