Unilever and McCormick Merge to Form $65B Food Giant

The deal combines Unilever's food business with the U.S. spice maker, creating a new powerhouse in the industry.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 7:08pm

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a collection of premium spice jars, glass bottles, and cooking utensils arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic seamless background, conceptually representing the corporate strategy and market power of the merged Unilever and McCormick food conglomerate.The merger of Unilever and McCormick creates a new global leader in the spice and seasoning industry, combining iconic brands and premium products.McCormick Today

Unilever and McCormick, the maker of Old Bay seasoning, have announced a deal to combine Unilever's food business with the U.S. spice maker, creating a $65 billion food conglomerate. The merger could result in the spin-off of well-known brands like Hellmann's mayonnaise.

Why it matters

This merger brings together two major players in the food industry, creating a new global leader in spices, seasonings, and other food products. It signals continued consolidation in the sector as companies seek to gain scale and efficiency.

The details

Under the terms of the deal, Unilever will contribute its food business, which includes brands like Hellmann's, Knorr, and Lipton, to the newly formed company. McCormick, known for its iconic Old Bay seasoning, will contribute its spice and seasoning operations. The combined entity will have annual revenue of $65 billion and be headquartered in South Carolina, where McCormick is currently based.

  • The merger was announced on March 31, 2026.

The players

Unilever

A multinational consumer goods company that owns numerous food, personal care, and home care brands.

McCormick

A U.S.-based spice and seasoning company, known for its iconic Old Bay seasoning.

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What’s next

The merger is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to close by the end of 2026.

The takeaway

This deal represents the continued consolidation in the food industry as companies seek to gain scale and efficiency. The combined entity will be a major player in the spice and seasoning market, with a diverse portfolio of well-known brands.