Danone invests $10M in Laird Superfood

Funds will be used to expand operations and manufacturing, invest in production and amplify go-to-market strategies

US based firm Laird Superfood has announced closing a $10 million financing round, funded entirely by Danone Manifesto Ventures (DMV) to support its growth initiatives.

Since its launch in 2015, Laird Superfood, creator of plant-based superfood products, has quickly become recognized as a driving force in a consumer movement toward a conscious, healthful and vibrant lifestyle. Through this effort, the company has seen record growth in products, innovations, and with retail partners both online and in stores, leading to its strongest quarter to date.

Laird Superfood will utilize 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.

Paul Hodge, CEO and Co-Founder of Laird Superfood said, “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. After thoughtful consideration and developing 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.”

Laurent Marcel, CEO of Danone Manifesto Ventures said, “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. We 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.”

Hamilton, Co-Founder of Laird Superfood said, “I’m so grateful to have such a strong, philosophically aligned partner like DMV on board as we look at developing the next phase of delicious, innovative, plant-based products for all to enjoy.”

DMV, the corporate venture arm of Danone, a global food and beverage company dedicated to bringing health through food to as many people as possible, invests globally in innovative companies further supporting Danone’s mission through emerging brands, businesses and capabilities.