Equine America UK Acquires Horse First in Strategic Move to Expand Premium Supplement Range
Equine America UK, a leading British equine supplement company, has acquired Irish brand Horse First in a strategic business move aimed at expanding its product range and reinforcing its position in the international market.
Equine America also recently launched EA Nutra, a sister brand tailored to the European market and professional competition riders.
Strategic Impact of the Acquisition
The acquisition is expected to benefit both companies by combining Equine America’s clean-manufacturing infrastructure and international scale with Horse First’s potent product formulations and global customer base.
According to statements made by both companies in the announcement, the integration will strengthen distribution across the UK and Ireland and enhance access to sport-oriented supplements within Equine America’s already diverse range.
Equine America is expected to support Horse First’s international growth using its larger R&D, production, and regulatory framework, while maintaining both brands’ unique identities and commitments to quality and performance.
Outlook
This acquisition signals ongoing consolidation in the equine supplement market, with a growing emphasis on scientific validation, competition safety, and international growth. Equine America and Horse First together offer a more comprehensive product line to riders, trainers, and equine health professionals, especially those focused on high-level performance and welfare.
About Equine America UK
Established in 1997 and based in the UK, Equine America UK is a family-run business specialising in performance-led nutritional supplements for horses. Its products, including the widely recognised Cortaflex® range, are manufactured under rigorous quality controls with UFAS and BETA-NOPS certifications, ensuring suitability for Clean Sport competition. The company operates out of food-grade facilities and employs advanced ingredient testing such as laser fingerprinting.
Equine America also recently launched EA Nutra, a sister brand tailored to the European market and professional competition riders.
About Horse First
Founded in 2008 by former international showjumper Paddy Hughes, Horse First is headquartered in Northern Ireland and is known for its high-strength equine supplements, including Relax Me, B Well, and Hoof First. With a presence in over 30 countries, Horse First has built a strong reputation for effective, results-driven formulations, and was recognised in 2024 as “Exporter of the Year” at the Greater Newry Business Awards.
