Danone invests $10 million in Laird Superfood

  • 23 April 2020
  • Organic
Since its launch in 2015 Laird Superfood has been focusing on the US market, bringing products made with ‘superfood’ ingredients

Danone Manifesto Ventures (DMV) has invested $10 million in all-plant food start-up Laird Superfood. Based in Oregon, Laird said the new capital will be utilised to support growth initiatives, including new product development and manufacturing capacity.

Launched in 2015, Laird Superfood has been focusing on the US market, bringing products made with ‘superfood’ ingredients. The company’s offering includes creamers, functional mushroom blends, coconut water, and coffee.

Paul Hodge, Laird chief executive and co-founder, commented: “The growth of Laird Superfood has been a result of our company’s focus on functional, convenient, better-tasting products while staying authentic to our co-founder Laird Hamilton’s uncompromising standards of quality and ingredients.”

Hodge said the company has developed a strong relationship with the DMV team. “We believe they are the best partner to help us deliver the mission and vision of the company. Danone aims to inspire healthier and more sustainable dietary practices around the world, which is perfectly aligned with the vision of our founders.”

Funding future growth

Laird Superfood will utilise the new capital from DMV to continue to develop new offerings, expand its manufacturing campus in Sisters, Oregon, and grow its platform of clean, high-quality, plant-based products.

DMV, the corporate venture arm of French multinational food giant Danone, invests globally in innovative companies further supporting Danone’s mission through emerging brands, businesses and capabilities.

Laurent Marcel, DMV chief executive, commented: “Through our time with Paul, Laird and the leadership team, we have developed a deep conviction in Laird Superfood’s culture and its understanding of the needs of today’s consumer.”

Marcel said the investors are confident that Laird Superfood’s commitment to a healthy lifestyle and the quality of their functional products and ingredients will continue to appeal to consumers and retailers. 

“Laird Superfood is a powerful brand with a unique story, and we are excited about our ability to seal this partnership, particularly in the current global environment. We believe it will result in future success with a foundation of mutual trust and shared values,” Marcel concluded.

Laird expanded its offering in March by introducing a new creamer line.