Global food and beverage company PepsiCo has announced plans to acquire Pipers Crisps in the UK in an effort to expand its snacking portfolio.

The company intends to accelerate the growth of the Pipers business in the UK, with additional plans to focus on the export segment.

PepsiCo UK general manager Ian Ellington 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.”

The kettle-cooked, gourmet crisps are sold in pubs, restaurants, cafes, hotels and farm shops, both in the UK and overseas.

Pipers Crisps managing director James McKinney said: “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.”

Completion of the deal is subject to approval by the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) and is expected to take place early next year.

Law firm Walker Morris is advising Pipers Crisps on PepsiCo’s intended acquisition.

Walker Morris food and drink team head Richard Naish 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.”