Applied Nutrition, a well-known sports nutrition company, has officially announced its plan to float on the stock market.
The Liverpool-based company’s decision is seen as a move to take advantage of the growing £189bn global health and nutrition market.
IPO Announcement
Applied Nutrition, headquartered in Liverpool and renowned for its sports nutrition products, has officially announced its intention to go public. This IPO is seen as a strategic move to capitalise on the burgeoning £189bn global health and nutrition market. Founded in 2014, the company has steadily developed a range of products under its brand umbrella, including Applied Nutrition, ABE, BodyFuel, and Endurance.
Stock Market Listing Details
The company’s shares are set to be listed on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange, under the equity shares category of the Official List of the FCA. The IPO will see existing shares sold by current shareholders, targeting institutional investors in the UK and globally, excluding the US, and retail investors in the UK through RetailBook. Post-admission, Applied Nutrition will maintain a free float of at least 25% of its issued share capital, potentially qualifying for inclusion in the FTSE UK indices.
Addleshaw Goddard is providing legal counsel to Applied Nutrition for this IPO, while Deutsche Numis functions as the global coordinator, sponsor, and bookrunner. Pinsent Masons is advising Deutsche Numis on this significant financial endeavour.
Company Growth and Infrastructure
Since its inception in 2014, Applied Nutrition has demonstrated a robust growth trajectory, consistently delivering strong, profitable outcomes. CEO Thomas Ryder attributes much of this success to the company’s in-house manufacturing and new product development capabilities, primarily based in Knowsley, Liverpool. This approach has enabled the company to innovate rapidly and efficiently bring new products to market.
In response to growing demand and revenue, the company expanded its infrastructure in 2022, adding a 47,000 sq ft warehouse adjacent to its existing Knowsley site, which serves as the hub for all UK operations, including production, warehousing, and office space.
JD Sports Fashion plc’s strategic acquisition of 32% of Applied Nutrition’s share capital from Thomas Ryder in 2021 further underscores the company’s growth potential. This move was aligned with JD Sports’ broader strategy involving its JD Gyms business.
Management Perspectives
CEO Thomas Ryder expressed immense pride in the company’s achievements over the past decade, highlighting the role of in-house capabilities in fostering innovation. “Since launching our first Applied Nutrition product just over ten years ago, we have demonstrated a consistent track record of delivering strong profitable growth,” he stated. Ryder is particularly proud that a significant portion of manufacturing and product development occurs in-house at their Knowsley facilities, enabling swift product innovation and market entry.
Andy Bell, the non-executive chair of Applied Nutrition, emphasised that the London Stock Exchange listing represents a significant milestone in the company’s journey. Bell cited the company’s impressive growth driven by rising consumer interest in health and wellness and the continuous introduction of new products. He believes a London listing will enhance brand awareness and provide a platform for sustained growth.
Financial Performance
The financial performance of Applied Nutrition has been noteworthy. In the fiscal year 2024, the company’s total revenue reached £86.2 million, marking a substantial increase from £21.8 million in fiscal year 2021. This financial growth is indicative of the increasing demand for the company’s products and the successful execution of its business strategy.
The expansion of the company’s warehouse and the integration of advanced manufacturing processes have played a critical role in supporting this revenue growth, ensuring that the company can meet rising market demands effectively.
Future Prospects
The upcoming IPO is expected to further bolster Applied Nutrition’s market presence and facilitate additional growth opportunities. By widening its shareholder base within the UK and internationally, the company aims to sustain its upward trajectory and continue its expansion within the global health and wellness sector.
The listing is not only a financial milestone but also a strategic move to enhance the company’s visibility and credibility in the market. With a strong foundation and a clear growth strategy, Applied Nutrition is well-positioned to capitalise on emerging opportunities in a rapidly evolving industry.
Applied Nutrition’s journey to becoming a publicly traded company marks a significant chapter in its growth story. With a solid financial performance and a focus on innovation, the company is well-prepared for future opportunities.
As the IPO approaches, Applied Nutrition anticipates that the stock market listing will enhance its brand visibility and support ongoing growth within the global health and wellness sector.