Açaí superfood brand Sambazon has secured a $45 million investment from NextWorld, a San Francisco-based investment partnership, as it looks to continue its exponential growth.
Based in San Clemente, California, Sambazon offers a range of organic and vegan food and beverages made with açaí – a high-antioxidant berry that grows in the Amazon Rainforest. These include ready-to-eat açaí bowls, frozen superfruit packs, sorbet, energy drinks, juices and frozen desserts.
Founded in 2000, Sambazon is an acronym for “Sustainable Management of the Brazilian Amazon” and invests a percentage of its fruit purchases directly back into local communities to support farmers.
The US company has a national presence across the natural and conventional grocery channels, retail stores and a growing food service business; as well as international distribution in more than 45 countries.
In the past year, Sambazon said it grew over 20% as consumers prioritised healthy superfoods in creative and convenient formats.
Following the investment, David Fife – a partner at NextWorld – will join the Sambazon board of directors. NextWorld has previously invested in Peet’s Coffee & Tea, Alter Eco and Van Leeuwen Ice Cream.
“We are proud to join with the Sambazon team for the next phase of the company’s growth,” said Fife. “Sambazon is a market leader built around a deep sense of purpose, innovative açai products, a large addressable global market and a long-term commitment to leveraging their strong growth in the CPG marketplace to build a larger omnichannel brand.”
Sambazon CEO and founder, Ryan Black, added: “We have seen excellent growth this year and are excited to have NextWorld joining us. It is rare to find a firm that combines best in class consumer experience with a proven philanthropic track record. I have not seen an investment firm more committed to balancing profit and purpose.”
© FoodBev Media Ltd 2024
World Beverage Innovation Awards – NOW OPEN FOR ENTRIES!
The awards celebrate excellence and innovation across the global beverage industry. Don’t miss out on having your innovations recognised on a global scale.
Deadline for entries 23 July – enter now!
Don’t get left behind
Start your free Foodbev magazine trial today and join thousands of fellow industry professionals in receiving food and drink trends direct to our business.
Click here to start your free trial
Your privacy We use small files known as ‘cookies’ to enhance your experience of the FoodBev website and analyse site-traffic. Read about how we use cookies or how you may control them in our updated privacy policy and cookie policy. If you continue to use this site, you consent to our use of cookies. Click the ‘OKAY‘ button at the top right of this panel to accept or click here for more information.