Unilever buys eco-conscious US brand Seventh Generation

Dutch food and cosmetics giant Unilever said on Monday it was acquiring eco-conscious US cleaning products group Seventh Generation, expanding its range of environmentally friendly brands.

Based in Vermont, "Seventh Generation is a pioneer in corporate responsibility and sustainable product innovations, including plant-based detergents and household cleaners," Unilever said in a statement.

The Dutch company has revealed neither the cost nor the expected date of the buy-out.

Seventh Generation's turnover exceeded $200 million (180 million euros) in 2015, Unilever said, adding that "it has seen double digit compounded annual growth over the last 10 years."

The US-based company sells recycled tissues, plant-based detergents, synthetic fragrance-free soaps and coconut oil-based products for babies.

"This addition to Unilever's product portfolio will help us meet rising demand for high-quality products with a purpose," said Nitin Paranjpe, who heads Unilever's home care business.

Active in more than 190 countries with a stable of household brands, including Lipton tea, Knorr soups, Rexona deodorants and Bertolli olive oils, Unilever employs some 169,000 people across the world.