Who Owns Kendamil: The Story Behind Kendal Nutricare
Kendamil formula is produced and owned by Kendal Nutricare Ltd, a family-run company based in the English Lake District. The company was founded by Ross McMahon, an Irish entrepreneur with a background in agriculture and food science. McMahon's aim was to create a premium baby formula using locally sourced, whole milk ingredients as an alternative to products from large multinational corporations.
The Founder: Ross McMahon
Ross McMahon is the founder of Kendal Nutricare. After years in the food industry, he acquired the factory in Kendal in 2015, establishing Kendal Nutricare. His background and passion for natural ingredients influenced the creation of Kendamil. McMahon's sons, William and Dylan, have also joined the business in executive positions, making it a family-centric company.
A Family Affair: The McMahon Sons
Ross's sons hold important roles in the company:
- William McMahon: Commercial Director, involved in strategy and growth.
- Dylan McMahon: Head of Growth, working across product and community teams.
This family involvement helps maintain the original vision and commitment to quality.
The Kendamil Manufacturing Philosophy
Kendamil's manufacturing is based on several principles:
- Whole Milk: Uses a whole milk recipe, including Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MFGM), unlike many formulas using skimmed milk and vegetable oil.
- No Palm Oil or Fish Oil: Kendamil avoids using palm oil and fish oil, opting for sustainably sourced marine algae for Omega-3 DHA, making standard formulas vegetarian.
- Local Sourcing: Milk comes from local, British, Red Tractor-accredited farms in the Lake District.
Kendamil's Competitive Edge: A Family Business vs. Multinationals
| Feature | Kendal Nutricare (Kendamil) | Multinational Formula Corporations |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Private, family-owned | Often public, large corporations |
| Production | British-made in Lake District | Often international locations |
| Fat Source | Whole milk | 100% vegetable oils, often palm oil |
| Sourcing | Local British farmers | Global sourcing |
| Ingredients | Whole milk, no palm/fish oil | May include palm oil, fish oil, corn syrup |
| Decision Making | Led by founding family | Corporate boards |
The Journey to Success
Kendal Nutricare and Kendamil have grown significantly, gaining recognition and awards. Their focus on quality and transparency appeals to parents who value ethical sourcing and clean ingredients. The company supplied formula to the US in 2022 to help with a shortage, showing its ability to compete while staying true to its values.
Conclusion
The owner of Kendamil formula is the British, family-run company, Kendal Nutricare Ltd., founded by CEO Ross McMahon in 2015. With support from his sons, William and Dylan, McMahon has built a brand known for whole milk, ethical sourcing, and a palm oil-free recipe. The company's British roots and family focus provide a contrast to larger, multinational competitors. It is a business driven by family values and a commitment to high-quality, transparently sourced products. For more information, visit: Kendal Nutricare.
