By Jesse Newman

A tie-up between mayonnaise-maker Unilever and McCormick, which sells Cholula hot sauce, would anoint a new sauce boss at a time when consumers are condiment obsessed.

The union could "completely transform" McCormick's business, bringing the spice maker increased scale, international reach, and sway with retailers, according to TD Cowen analyst Rob Moskow.

McCormick has fared better than many other big food companies in recent years, posting growing sales volumes at a time when others are struggling with slumping revenues. The Maryland company has pointed to strong demand for flavors, as well as cost-conscious consumers who are cooking more at home.

McCormick CEO Brendan Foley told investors at a consumer-goods conference in February that Gen Z and millennials in the U.S. spend more on hot sauce than on ketchup. "They use more hot sauce than any other generation," he said.

McCormick shares edged down 1% in morning trading. Unilever's stock gained 1%.

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March 20, 2026 10:53 ET (14:53 GMT)

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