Former Wales forward Hal Robson-Kanu has swapped his football career for the business world and recently secured a huge eight-figure investment in his company
Wales football icon Hal Robson-Kanu has enjoyed success in the business world (Image: Matthew Ashton – AMA/Getty Images)
Wales icon Hal Robson-Kanu has found himself at the centre of a £15million deal, away from the football pitch.
The retired forward, 36, spent his career at Reading and West Bromwich Albion before hanging up his boots in 2021. He is most fondly remembered for the key role he played in Wales’ run to the semi-finals of Euro 2016, including his unforgettable goal in the quarter-final victory over Belgium.
Outside of his sporting career, Robson-Kanu founded The Turmeric Co. brand in 2018, selling turmeric-based shots, before launching Raw Hydrate last year. His business ventures have proven successful as leading drinks manufacturer AG Barr bought a majority stake in Robson-Kanu’s drinks company Innate-Essence for £15m earlier this year.
AG Barr purchased a 51.1 per cent stake in Innate-Essence last month, where Robson-Kanu is chief executive. The funding will be used to help expand the brand globally and invest in marketing.
“I created the brand as a convenient and great-tasting way to support wellness-conscious individuals and sportspeople like me,” Robson-Kanu said of the deal with AG Barr. “We’ve had a remarkable few years but with this latest milestone and such heavyweight backing, it feels like our journey is just beginning – we’ve unlocked a new level.
“The international potential is huge, and we can’t wait to see what we achieve next. BDO’s understanding of our sector and merger and acquisition expertise has been key to our success and getting this investment over the line.”
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Robson-Kanu has previously stated that he was inspired to create his drinks brand after learning how turmeric helped recovery during his football career. The former Reading forward credited turmeric shots with aiding his return from a career-threatening knee injury.
The former Premier League star has already secured partnerships with Everton and Brentford. Innate-Essence also boasts partnerships with rugby sides Sale Sharks and Leicester Tigers, plus British Gymnastics.
The business has previously launched products in Sainsbury’s and Ocado, while monthly subscriptions also contribute to its income. Robson-Kanu’s Innate-Essence was advised on the AG Barr investment by BDO.
Hal Robson-Kanu’s goal against Belgium was one of the highlighs of his football career(Image: PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
“Having worked with Thomas since his Series A investment in 2023, this latest deal is testament to the fact that with an exceptional leader, clear vision and a quality product, UK consumer brands can scale – at pace,” Lorna Hopkinson said, who led the deal for BDO. “This is a significant deal in the sector and positions the brand for global success.”
Despite his success in the business world, Robson-Kanu was looking for a return to football as recently as two years ago. While working as a pundit for Sky Sport, the Wales hero insisted he had not retired since leaving West Brom and offered his services to Wrexham during their National League-winning campaign.
“Look, Wrexham have done phenomenally well and massive credit to Ryan Reynolds and the whole team down there,” Robson-Kanu said. “From my perspective, being able to offer my services to the club, I’m in unique position, which is quite nice.
“I’m a free agent and I have been for the last two years. I’ve not officially announced my retirement, but again I’m 33 years of age. What they’ve done is fantastic. I’m happy to have a conversation and as I said, I’d be happy donate any salary I receive to charity as well.”