Owned by Unilever since 1995, Colman’s was founded in Norwich in 1814, with Unilever describing it as one of its oldest brands.

News of the sale comes ahead of a proposed merger between McCormick and Unilever, which the companies said would create a “scaled, global flavour powerhouse”.

The combined business will house brands including McCormick, Knorr and Hellmann’s, as well as Cholula, Maille and Frank’s, as part of a global portfolio with reported revenues of $20 billion.

Unilever has previously stated it will merge its food business with McCormick and upon closing, the transaction will create a business across the retail and foodservice channels, with a portfolio spanning herbs, spices, seasonings, cooking aids, sauces and condiments.

A Unilever spokesperson stated: “A decision has been taken to market the Colman’s brand and assets to potential buyers in order to proactively seek to address potential competition concerns from the planned combination of Unilever Foods and McCormick.

“Discussions are ongoing and the operations continue as usual.”