Straus Family Creamery, a renowned organic dairy producer offering a variety of products including yogurt, ice cream, and kefir, has recently received a substantial equity financing from US investment firm Grounded Capital. This funding will play a crucial role in supporting the company’s mission of sustaining family farms, revitalizing rural communities, and building a more regenerative food system.
Based in Petaluma, California, Straus Family Creamery also provides organic milk, cream, and butter, and has restructured its management with the assistance of Grounded Capital. Mike Scheu was appointed as the new president in January, taking over from Bob McGee who retired after 13 years of service. Albert Straus, the company’s founder, now serves as executive chairman.
Albert Straus expressed his enthusiasm about the investment, stating that it will further the company’s carbon-neutral farming model and ensure the sustainability of organic dairy farming operations. He emphasized the importance of creating a resilient pathway for the next generation of farmers supplying Straus Family Creamery.
The financial details of the equity interest from Grounded Capital, a San Francisco-based firm managing $2 billion in assets, have not been disclosed. Both CEO Stephen Hohenrieder and principal William Culler-Chase from Grounded Capital will join Straus Family Creamery’s board, showing their commitment to supporting the company’s long-term vision and mission.
Hohenrieder shared his excitement about the partnership, highlighting the potential to expand the availability of Straus Family Creamery’s products in new stores and geographic regions in the coming years. He underscored the significance of the company’s role in the future of organic dairy farming.
Established in 1994, Straus Family Creamery distributes its dairy products through retail and foodservice channels. The organic milk is sourced from family-owned farms in Marin and Sonoma Counties in California, including Straus’ own dairy farm.
This strategic investment from Grounded Capital marks a significant milestone for Straus Family Creamery, reinforcing its position in the food and beverage industry. It reflects a commitment to sustainable farming practices and the continued growth of the business in new markets.
