Schwabe acquires majority stake in Hydraid

In early July, the Schwabe Group acquired a majority stake in hydration pioneer Hydraid, linking an established healthcare company with an agile start-up in functional sports hydration. The move complements both companies’ strategies and strengthens the Group’s position in the natural health solutions market.

Dynamic growth

For Schwabe, Hydraid is a targeted expansion of the European supplements and direct-to-consumer growth pillar. Alongside Nature’s Way Europe, Braineffect and NeuroNation, Hydraid broadens the portfolio with the fast-growing category of functional hydration. The brand aligns with the Schwabe Group’s scientific standards and addresses a key need of active, health-conscious consumers.

Hydration Helper: evidence-based formulas trusted by top athletes

Since 2021, Hydraid has offered powdered, science-backed electrolyte formulas and built a focused core product with Hydration Helper, available as convenient sticks in 12 flavors. Energy and Immunity variants extend the core formula. Since 2024, Hydraid has been the official hydration partner of FC Bayern Basketball and of top athletes including Olympians Linus Straßer, Malaika Mihambo and Julian Köster. Products are available via the brand’s own online shop, on Amazon, and in more than 4,000 dm, Budni, Rossmann and Müller stores across Germany.

Strategic fit for both

The founding team and the 20-strong workforce remain fully on board. “We think long term and, following our June rebranding, are now taking this new brand foundation to the next level together,” say founders Fabian Winter and Dr. med. Dominik Winter.

“We invest with a long-term perspective in brands and categories that fit our scientific approach and address relevant consumer needs,” says Olaf Schwabe. “Hydraid is an ideal complement to our dietary supplements business.”