Snapshot from Aug 24, 2026 at 07:00 UTC. For live data and tracking: View Live
Events / Business / Nichols acquires VitHit for 75m euros
Business acquisition

Nichols acquires VitHit for 75m euros

Analysis based on 14 articles · First reported Aug 10, 2026 · Last updated Aug 10, 2026

Sentiment
20
Attention
2
Articles
14
Market Impact
General
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Market Impact

The acquisition is expected to be immediately earnings enhancing for Nichols, with returns comfortably exceeding its cost of capital, likely boosting investor sentiment. The deal expands Nichols' portfolio into the growing functional drinks segment, potentially increasing its market share and revenue growth prospects.

Beverages Soft Drinks Health and Wellness
Event Summary

Nichols plc, the London-listed maker of Vimto, has acquired the Irish healthy drinks brand VitHit for €75 million in cash. VitHit, founded in Dublin in 2001 by former rugby player Gary Lavin, produces low-calorie, low-sugar beverages fortified with vitamins and functional ingredients. The brand has expanded to 13 overseas markets and generated revenue of €26.5 million and adjusted pre-tax profit of €4.1 million in 2025. Nichols will retain VitHit's Dublin office and plans to accelerate its growth through its commercial capabilities and international infrastructure. Founder Gary Lavin will step down from day one, while some management will remain during a transition. The acquisition is expected to be immediately earnings enhancing and is funded from cash on hand, with a new revolving credit facility from NatWest Group to support working capital.

Key Actions
100 Nichols plc acquired VitHit
40 Gary Lavin stepped down
30 NatWest Group provided credit facility Nichols plc
Entities Involved
stock
Nichols plc
Nichols acquires VitHit for €75m, expanding its portfolio and expecting immediate earnings enhancement. The deal aligns with its growth strategy and is funded via cash and a new credit facility.
Importance 100.0 Sentiment 30.0
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VitHit
VitHit is acquired by Nichols, gaining access to broader distribution and commercial capabilities. The brand retains its Dublin office and is expected to accelerate growth under new ownership.
Importance 90.0 Sentiment 20.0
per
Gary Lavin
Founder Gary Lavin steps down after the sale, having built VitHit into a profitable brand across 13 markets. He considers Nichols an ideal partner for future growth.
Importance 60.0 Sentiment 10.0
per
Andrew Milne
CEO Andrew Milne leads the acquisition, highlighting VitHit's strategic fit and growth potential. His leadership is central to integrating and expanding the brand.
Importance 40.0 Sentiment 10.0
cnt
United Kingdom
The UK is the base of Nichols and a key market for VitHit. The deal strengthens the UK soft drinks sector and reflects cross-border M&A activity.
Importance 30.0 Sentiment 5.0
cnt
Republic of Ireland
Republic of Ireland is the home market of VitHit, with its Dublin office retained. The acquisition highlights the attractiveness of Irish beverage brands to international buyers.
Importance 30.0 Sentiment 5.0
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NatWest Group
NatWest Group provides a new revolving credit facility to Nichols to support working capital post-acquisition, facilitating the deal's financing.
Importance 20.0 Sentiment 5.0
Relationships
United Kingdom related ↔ Republic of Ireland
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