Bain Capital sole contender for Vitabiotics buy
Mumbai: Bain Capital has emerged as the frontrunner to acquire Vitabiotics, UK’s largest nutraceutical company, as the private equity firm looks to bet on growing demand for nutrition, vitamins, minerals, and wellness supplements since the pandemic.Two other contenders TPG Capital and EQT have opted out of the competitive bidding process, said people aware of the developments.Founded in 1971 by Kartar Lalvani, Vitabiotics claims to be UK’s largest multivitamin company. The business is currently led by his son, Tej Lalvani — also known for his role as an investor on BBC’s Dragon’s Den — who serves as chief executive officer.The NRI founders have been seeking a valuation of around £900 million ($1–1.2 billion) for the business spread across the UK, India, and China. However, the waning competitive interest is likely to impact the final price, the people said. The company also exports to 100 countries worldwide.Mails to Bain Capital and Vitabiotics did not generate a response.Vitabiotics’...