Ex-Premier League star lands £15m payday as he launches new career away from football

Former Wales forward Hal Robson-Kanu has enjoyed success in the business world and recently secured an eight-figure deal for his company

Wales legend Hal Robson-Kanu was celebrating a £15million business deal while the rest of the footballing world focused on the transfer window.

The former striker, 36, played for Reading and West Bromwich Albion during his playing days ended in 2021. Robson-Kanu is best remembered for his part in Wales’ march to the Euro 2016 semi-finals, including his spectacular goal against Belgium in the quarter-finals.

Beyond his footballing exploits, Robson-Kanu established The Turmeric Co. brand in 2018, marketing turmeric-based shots, before launching Raw Hydrate last year. His business endeavours have flourished as major drinks producer AG Barr acquired a majority stake in Robson-Kanu’s beverage firm Innate-Essence for £15m earlier this year.

Wales Online reported that AG Barr had snapped up a 51.1 per cent share in Innate-Essence last month, where Robson-Kanue serves as chief executive. The investment will support the brand’s plans for global expansion and boost marketing efforts.

“I created the brand as a convenient and great-tasting way to support wellness-conscious individuals and sportspeople like me,” Robson-Kanu commented on the AG Barr partnership. “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.”

Robson-Kanu has previously revealed that he was motivated to establish his drinks company after discovering how turmeric aided his recovery during his football career. The ex-Reading striker attributed turmeric shots with helping his comeback from a potentially career-ending knee injury.

The former Premier League player has already secured partnerships with Everton and Brentford. Innate-Essence also boasts collaborations with rugby clubs Sale Sharks and Leicester Tigers, plus British Gymnastics.

The company has previously rolled out products in Sainsbury’s and Ocado, while monthly subscriptions also add to its revenue. Robson-Kanu’s Innate-Essence received guidance on the AG Barr investment from BDO.

“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,” said Lorna Hopkinson, who spearheaded 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 eyeing a return to football as recently as two years ago. When working as a pundit for Sky Sport, the Welsh hero maintained he had not declared himself retired after leaving West Brom and offered his services to Wrexham during their National League-winning season.

“Look, Wrexham have done phenomenally well and massive credit to Ryan Reynolds and the whole team down there,” Robson-Kanu said, as per Wales Online. “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.”