Lupin Eyes Rs 11,800 Crore Vitabiotics Buyout, Lalvani Family-Owned Brand in Focus
Mumbai: Indian pharma major Lupin, alongside private-equity firms TPG Capital and EQT Partners, is reportedly in early-stage discussions to acquire Vitabiotics, the UK-based nutraceutical company owned by the Lalvani family. The potential transaction could value Vitabiotics at around Rs 11,800 crore, according to a recent media report in The Economic Times.
Why Vitabiotics Is in Demand
Vitabiotics is widely regarded as the largest nutraceutical firm in the UK, with a broad portfolio of well‑known supplement brands including Pregnacare, Wellwoman, Wellman, Osteocare, Perfectil, etc.
Its Indian arm, Meyer Vitabiotics, contributes roughly 20 % of the company’s annual £253 million revenue, underscoring the firm’s significant footprint in India as well as globally.
Founded in 1971 by Kartar Lalvani, Vitabiotics has over five decades of history in nutraceuticals and food supplements. Under his leadership — later supported by his son Tej Lalvani (now at the helm) — the company has built strong brand equity across vitamins, minerals and wellness supplements, with exports to over 100 countries worldwide.
Vitabiotics has been recognized for innovation and research in nutrition. The company has won the UK’s prestigious Queen's Award for Innovation (twice), becoming the first vitamin company ever to receive the honour for its efforts in supplement formulation and development.
What’s Next: Consortium Bid, Competitive Landscape
Lupin is reportedly looking to form a consortium with TPG Capital and EQT Partners to bid for Vitabiotics.
Earlier, several Indian companies — including Mankind Pharma and Zydus Wellness — had evaluated the acquisition, but eventually pulled out citing steep valuations.
Advisory for the sale is being provided by investment‑banking firm Houlihan Lokey, which is managing the process on behalf of the promoters.
Strategic Motive: Diversification Beyond Generics
The proposed acquisition aligns with Lupin’s broader strategy to diversify beyond generic APIs and formulations. Earlier in April 2025, Lupin acquired UK‑based Renascience Pharma for £12.3 million — a move aimed at strengthening its branded medicines portfolio in the UK.
Also Read: Lupin UK arm acquires Renascience Pharma for over Rs 138 crore
With increasing global demand for nutraceuticals and wellness products, the acquisition of Vitabiotics — with its established brands, research legacy and global distribution network — could provide Lupin a strong entry into the high‑growth global wellness segment. Industry observers note this could be a strategic pivot especially given rising health awareness and demand for supplements in India and abroad, reports ET.
About the Lalvani Family & Vitabiotics
Vitabiotics was founded in 1971 by Kartar Lalvani, a British‑Indian entrepreneur and pharmacist by training. The business was later taken over by his son Tej Lalvani, who is known for his consumer‑facing profile and has led expansion efforts globally.
Under their stewardship, Vitabiotics grew from a small supplements business into a global nutraceutical powerhouse with award‑winning brands. Over the years, the company has built strong market presence across categories like women’s health, prenatal care, general wellness, bone & joint health, and more.
In the UK and abroad, Vitabiotics is recognized for its science‑backed approach — combining nutritional research with consumer wellness needs. Its legacy includes multiple national and international honours for innovation and quality.
