Weekly Round Off With HTE ๐Ÿ”™โœจ

๐ŸŒŸ Hey there, dear readers! It's that time of the week again when we gather around to catch up on the latest and greatest in the Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) world. ๐Ÿš€

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CPG Brands Are Ramping Up Product Development In 2024

Sanzo Adds: $8M (And Counting) In New Investment Round

MPearlRock Acquires Nutpods, a Popular and Rapidly Growing Plant-Based Creamer Company

Eurazeo Takes Stake in Ex Nihilo Niche Perfume Brand

Leaked email: Stitch Fix is building out a transformation office under new CEO Matt Baer

CPG Brands Are Ramping Up Product Development In 2024

19 Jan 2024, Modern Retail 

After landing at Whole Foods in 2021 ๐Ÿ›’, Soom Foods focused on operational efficiency in 2023, delaying product development. Despite external challenges, they launched tahini-brd snack bites at year-end, aiming to expand the line ๐Ÿš€. This trend is seen across the food and beverage industry; startups like Proper Good shift focus from DTC to retail. Initially releasing a new flavor monthly, Proper Good reduced recipes by 50% after launching in Walmart ๐Ÿฅฃ. Now, with Walmart established, the brand resumes regular releases on its DTC platform ๐Ÿ”„. Liquid Alchemist paused launches for retail expansion, adapting to pandemic demand, and now prepares to launch falernum ๐Ÿน. As the market stabilizes, brands balance product development with new retail opportunities, shaping future strategies ๐ŸŒ.

Sanzo Adds: $8M (And Counting) In New Investment Round

19 Jan 2024, Benvet

Petalfast, a key player in the cannabis industry, has secured a whopping $8 million in strategic equity financing ๐ŸŒฟ๐Ÿ’ฐ. This big move, led by family offices with diverse interests, including beverage alcohol distribution, will fuel Petalfast's expansion across the U.S. ๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ. Since its 2020 launch in California, Petalfast has been revolutionizing the market with its unique blend of strategies from the food and beverage sectors. This funding is set to boost their sales and retail services, helping cannabis brands thrive in a competitive landscape ๐Ÿš€. With a seasoned team experienced in navigating regulated industries, Petalfast is all set for significant growth and innovation in the cannabis sector ๐ŸŒฑ๐Ÿ“ˆ.

MPearlRock Acquires Nutpods, a Popular and Rapidly Growing Plant-Based Creamer Company

16 Jan 2024, Business Wire 

MPearlRock, a joint venture between PearlRock Partners and MidOcean Partners, has acquired nutpods, a leading non-dairy coffee creamer brand. Founded in 2013 by Madeline Haydon, nutpods offers a healthier alternative with diverse flavors and a wholesome profile. It has become a major player in the plant-based, non-dairy creamer sector, available in 15,000+ stores nationwide. 

Brian Kelley, CEO of MPearlRock, praises nutpods' success and plans to accelerate its growth. Madeline Haydon is excited to join MPearlRock, anticipating expanded consumer reach. Erik Oken from MidOcean emphasizes their commitment to scaling innovative, founder-led brands. Wayne Wu of VMG Partners, a previous investor, applauds nutpods' growth under their partnership. Madeline Haydon expresses gratitude for VMG's support and is eager about the brand's journey with MPearlRock. ๐ŸŒฑโ˜•

Eurazeo Takes Stake in Ex Nihilo Niche Perfume Brand

18 Jan 2024, WWD

Eurazeo, a leading private asset manager, has completed a minority investment of approximately โ‚ฌ25 million in Ex Nihilo, a French luxury perfume brand known for its unique and high-quality fragrances. This investment is in partnership with Ex Nihilo's co-founders Sylvie Loday, Olivier Royรจre, and Benoรฎt Verdier, who maintain majority ownership. Ex Nihilo, established in 2013, stands out for its blend of modernity, personalization, and luxury craftsmanship. The brand is recognized globally, especially for its "Fleur Narcotique" perfume, and leverages technology for personalized fragrance experiences. Eurazeo's investment aims to support Ex Nihilo's growth across various channels and geographies, leveraging its expertise in brand building and digital capabilities.

Leaked email: Stitch Fix is building out a transformation office under new CEO Matt Baer

19 Jan 2024, Modern Retail

Stitch Fix, led by new CEO Matt Baer, is undergoing a major transformation, as revealed in a leaked email. Baer announced the establishment of a transformation office, headed by Cherizza Lundy, with a focus on key initiatives for foundational and long-term growth. The company is actively hiring for roles within this office. Baer, who took over in June, aims to revitalize Stitch Fix, responding to a 21% revenue decline in fiscal 2023. The company faces challenges in a changing retail landscape, with the styling model questioned by analysts. Baer's strategy remains undisclosed, but the emphasis on private-label clothing and a dedicated transformation team suggests a bold repositioning effort. ๐Ÿ”„๐Ÿ’ผ

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