The Coconut Collab manufactures coconut-based yoghurts, creams, custards, puddings and drinks and has developed a barista-style dairy-free drink called M!LK. Its products are made of over 95% coconut, contain no added water or heavy stabilisers, and are positioned as low‑sugar, creamy dairy-free alternatives. Founded in 2014 by James Averdieck after the sale of Gu Desserts, the business has grown into major UK retailers and expanded into Ireland, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Austria. During 2023 the firm posted 15% and now has products available with all major retailers in the UK, and it counts customers including Virgin and Starbucks. The company plans to scale operations, accelerate growth and expand its product portfolio throughout 2024, with a primary focus on growing its market in the UK and Europe. The recent funding is intended to help the business reach more customers and bring the category more mainstream. The Collaborative (formerly The Coconut Collaborative) makes plant-based yogurt and desserts, emphasizing low sugar (about one-sixth of most competitors), taste and texture. The company is launching a line of gluten-free, non‑GMO desserts (vanilla rice pudding, double chocolate mousse, chocolate pudding) and expanding yogurt SKUs into 4.2oz, 7oz and 12.3oz multi-serve sizes with new packaging at select grocers and natural retailers. It is increasing digital distribution (Instacart, FreshDirect) and partnering with Amazon Fresh, while also raising inventory levels and shipments amid COVID-19 distribution pressures. Leadership changed with Meiky Tollman, former Sabra COO, named CEO; the company rebranded to The Collaborative following new investment. Management says proceeds will be deployed on a “deep and narrow” go-to-market strategy to drive category growth in plant-based yogurt and desserts. Tollman projected total revenue of $30 million in 2020 and $40 million in 2021.

Total raised

$9M

Funding rounds

2

Latest round

Series B

Latest activity

Jan 2024