WOBURN, MASS. – Verde Farms, producer and processor of grass-fed, free-range beef, has received a $15 million investment from Manna Tree Partners, a Vail, Colo.-based private equity firm that has also invested in Nutriati, Vital Farms and MycoTechnology.
“Manna Tree Partners shares our mission-driven commitment to providing consumers with beef that is better for people, better for the animal, and better for the planet and to craft products using only great-tasting, authentic ingredients like those you can find in your own cupboard at home,” said Dana Ehrlich, chief executive officer of Verde Farms. "This partnership will better enable us to meet rising global demand for 100% grass-fed, 100% pasture-raised beef."
With the funds, Verde Farms plans to introduce ready-to-eat mealtime options and continue to expand its product lines across the U.S. in the near-term and internationally in the long-term, Mr. Ehrlich said.
Founded in 2005, Verde Farms sources its meat from beef from Uruguay, North America, Australia and New Zealand. Products are 100% pasture-raised without growth hormones or antibiotics.
The company's products are currently sold in Wegmans Food Markets, Walmart, Aldi, Harris Teeter, Amazon, BJs Wholesale Clubs, Schnuck’s, Fresh Thyme, Bristol Farms and rue Foods Kitchen.
"Consumers today are more keenly attuned to the impacts of their purchase decisions from a health and sustainability standpoint," said Brent Drever, chief operating officer of Manna Tree Partners. “We believe Verde is well-positioned to become the brand of choice for these consumers based on their sustainability and animal welfare standards, superior-quality products, traceable supply chain, and a proven, sustainable business model. The grass-fed organic beef market remains under-penetrated with significant opportunity to expand with a branded product offering and a thoughtful go-to-market strategy. Dana Ehrlich and his team are tapping into that incredible growth opportunity."