The deal would enable ABF to add Dorset Cereals’ porridges, mueslis, granola and cereal bars to its existing similar Jordans ranges.
While ABF has not confirmed the price tag, it said in a statement: “We can confirm that The Jordans & Ryvita Company, part of Associated British Foods, has reached an agreement to purchase the Dorset Cereals brand from Wellness Foods, subject to regulatory approval.
“Until the acquisition has been cleared by the regulatory authorities, Dorset Cereals will continue to operate as a part of Wellness Foods, and it is inappropriate for us to comment further at this stage.
‘Maintain existing manufacturing base’
“We can confirm that our intention would be to maintain Dorset Cereals’ existing manufacturing base in Poundbury, Dorset.”
In a separate statement, Dorset Cereals said: “This is an ongoing, confidential process and the deal is yet to be concluded, subject to regulatory approval.”
The move first surfaced on Sky News’ website.