Forward Consumer Partners has agreed to acquire US first-aid brand Welly from Unilever, expanding the private equity firm’s consumer products portfolio, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal.
Financial terms were not disclosed. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions.
Founded by entrepreneur Eric Ryan, Welly produces adhesive bandages, first-aid kits and other healthcare products. Unilever acquired a majority stake in the business in 2021.
Ryan is expected to return to Welly as a strategic adviser and board member following the acquisition, which represents Forward Consumer Partners’ entry into the consumer health sector.
The transaction forms part of Unilever’s ongoing portfolio restructuring, as the consumer goods group concentrates investment in higher-growth beauty, wellbeing and personal care businesses.
Forward Consumer Partners’ existing investments include consumer brands Justin’s, Firehook and Xochitl.
The sale follows a series of portfolio changes at Unilever, including the separation of its ice cream business and divestments of non-core brands.
