In a significant move in the plant-based food sector, Ahimsa Companies has successfully acquired Blackbird Foods, a US-based firm specializing in pizza and wings.
Founded in 2020, Blackbird Foods is well-known for offering a range of “comfort foods,” including frozen pizzas, seitan products, and delicious chicken wings. The brand has established a strong presence in the market, boasting listings at major retailers such as Target, Whole Foods Market, and Sprouts Farmers Markets. This acquisition signifies Ahimsa Companies’ commitment to revolutionizing the food industry through innovative plant-based solutions.
According to a statement issued regarding the acquisition, “The acquisition reflects Ahimsa Companies’ broader mission to invest in and support businesses that are reshaping the food industry with sustainable, plant-forward solutions.” The financial specifics of the deal have not been publicly disclosed, marking a strategic investment for Ahimsa Companies.
Ahimsa Companies was established in the previous year with the explicit goal of nurturing and expanding plant-based food businesses operating within the United States. Their vision emphasizes sustainability and health, aligning with emerging consumer preferences for plant-based products.
This acquisition is not Ahimsa’s first venture into the plant-based scene. In June of the previous year, they announced their initial acquisition, which involved the purchase of Wicked Kitchen. This brand is renowned for its convenient plant-based foods and meals, successfully marketed in both the US and the UK.
Furthermore, in October, Ahimsa Companies expanded its portfolio by acquiring Simulate, the US company known for its popular Nuggs faux-chicken nuggets brand. This series of acquisitions demonstrates Ahimsa’s proactive strategy to position itself as a significant player in the rapidly growing plant-based food market.
Acknowledging the acquisition, Emanuel Storch, co-founder of Blackbird Foods, expressed his enthusiasm. He remarked, “Ahimsa Companies shares our passion for plant-based innovation and animal-free food production. Together, we will continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in plant-based cuisine while maintaining the quality and authenticity our customers love.”
In a testament to their potential, last year, Blackbird Foods successfully raised over $125,000 through the StartEngine crowdfunding platform. This funding initiative reflects the confidence investors have in the company’s growth trajectory and market viability.
Furthermore, according to information published on StartEngine, Blackbird Foods has achieved impressive lifetime sales exceeding $11 million. The data indicates that between 2022 and 2023, Blackbird experienced a remarkable 60% increase in sales, alongside a 124% rise in gross profit. This growth occurs while controlling costs, as their cost of goods sold (COGS) and expenses escalated only 31% and 21%, respectively.
Blackbird Foods proudly self-manufactures at their facility in New York City, maintaining complete control over their production processes. This strategic advantage allows them to uphold high quality standards and achieve robust gross margins, which are essential for sustaining long-term growth and profitability.
