PepsiCo intends to acquire crisp brand Pipers Crisps early in 2019, subject to approval by the Competition and Markets Authority.

It has been revealed that the food and drink team at Walker Morris law firm have advised Pipers Crisps on the potential buy-out which is expected to conclude early in 2019.

PepsiCo believes that the kettle-cooked crisp brand will complement its existing savoury snacks portfolio, with the Pipers range of crisps sold in the ‘out of home environment’ including pubs, restaurants, cafes, hotels and farm shops, both in the UK and abroad.

Ian Ellington, general manager of PepsiCo UK, said: “Pipers share our uncompromising commitment to delivering on taste and quality and we’ve long-admired their entrepreneurial spirit. The Pipers brand has a strong proposition within the market, with stand-out taste, flavours and appeal.”

James McKinney, managing director of Pipers Crisps, added: “We’ve developed innovative products to suit evolving tastes while establishing a strong foothold in the market.

“PepsiCo’s commitment to accelerating the growth of the Pipers brand means more people will be able to enjoy the unique, award-winning flavour of Pipers Crisps.”

Richard Naish, head of the food and drink team, at Walker Morris said: “Pipers Crisps is a well-established, quality brand in the crisp market and an attractive proposition for PepsiCo. The acquisition will help to build on that success and continue the development and export of the product.”