Applied Nutrition Set to Make Waves with £500m IPO
In an exciting development for the sports nutrition industry, Liverpool-based Applied Nutrition is gearing up for a significant initial public offering (IPO) in London, potentially raising £500 million. This move marks a pivotal moment for the fast-growing sports supplements maker, which has garnered attention for its premium products tailored for professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.
The Upcoming IPO Announcement
Sky News has reported that Applied Nutrition will officially announce its intention to float on the London Stock Exchange on Monday morning. This announcement is expected to set the stage for one of the most notable IPOs of 2024, attracting interest from both institutional and retail investors. The company plans to coordinate a retail offering through RetailBook, allowing ordinary investors to acquire shares at the IPO price, thereby democratizing access to this promising investment opportunity.
Timing and Strategic Considerations
The timing of Applied Nutrition’s IPO is particularly strategic. By issuing its EITF (Eligibility for Initial Public Offering) document, the company aims to commence trading before the UK Budget later this month. This is significant as Chancellor Rachel Reeves is anticipated to increase capital gains tax, which could impact existing shareholders looking to offload their stakes. Reports suggest that the accelerated timeline is designed to allow founder and CEO Thomas Ryder, along with other shareholders, to minimize their tax liabilities.
Notable Backing and Leadership
Applied Nutrition has attracted pre-IPO investments from notable figures in the business world, including Peter Cowgill, the former CEO of JD Sports Fashion. Cowgill, who previously served as a non-executive director at Applied Nutrition, has played a crucial role in the company’s growth trajectory. Additionally, the appointment of Andy Bell, founder of the London-listed investment platform AJ Bell, as chairman further enhances the company’s credibility as it prepares for its IPO.
A Leader in Sports Nutrition
Founded by Thomas Ryder, Applied Nutrition specializes in formulating and manufacturing high-quality nutrition supplements. The company has established itself as a key player in the sports nutrition market, serving a diverse clientele that includes professional athletes across various sports. Notably, Applied Nutrition is the official nutrition partner for several prominent English football clubs, including Premier League side Fulham and Scottish Premiership team Glasgow Rangers.
The company’s product range is extensive, with its largest brand, ABE (All Black Everything), being a popular pre-workout supplement now available at Walmart, the world’s largest physical retailer. Other notable products include BodyFuel, a hydration drink designed to support athletes during intense training sessions.
The Broader Impact on the London Stock Exchange
A successful IPO for Applied Nutrition could have far-reaching implications for the London Stock Exchange, which has faced challenges in attracting fast-growing companies in recent years. The trend of companies shifting their listings to the US has raised concerns about the competitiveness of the UK market. Last year, the number of companies going public in London halved, with proceeds from IPOs dropping by 40% year-on-year. A successful listing by Applied Nutrition could signal a resurgence of interest in the London market and encourage other companies to consider public offerings in the UK.
Conclusion
As Applied Nutrition prepares for its anticipated IPO, the excitement surrounding the event reflects the growing demand for sports supplements and the potential for investment in this dynamic sector. With strong backing, a solid leadership team, and a commitment to quality, Applied Nutrition is poised to make a significant impact on the market. Investors and industry observers alike will be watching closely as the company embarks on this new chapter, potentially reshaping the landscape of sports nutrition and public offerings in the UK.