SDC portfolio company Barvecue has completed the opening capital raise for its Series Seed equity funding round. The company will use the funds for continued growth of its retail and foodservice, along with sustained operations of its entirely plant-based Carolina Smokehouse production facility.
Founder and CEO, Lee Cooper, said of the round, “There is a huge opportunity to define the future of plant-based foods and the team at Barvecue is not only producing delicious food, but is also building an amazing emerging brand and business that is unique in our industry. Completion of this equity funding round allows Barvecue to forge ahead with thoughtful resolve as we navigate the current macroeconomic challenges before us.”
Established in 2017, Barvecue has experienced rapid growth, now selling its authentically wood-smoked plant-based Pulled BVQ and Carnitas in over 1,000 grocery stores nationally including Whole Foods Market, Sprouts, The Fresh Market, Lowes Foods, Gelson’s and Food City.
Catering for the growing demand of these products, Barvecue made history in 2021 by breaking ground on the world’s largest plant-based smokehouse. The 10,000 square foot production facility, called the Carolina Smokehouse, has the capacity to make 800,000 pounds per year of Barvecue’s Pulled and Chopped BVQ products.
The company is currently focusing on expanding its food service presence, and has recently partnered with WebstaurantStore – the largest online restaurant supply store servicing both professionals and individuals. Barvecue has launched on this platform with 4lb frozen food service packs of its Naked BVQ, Pulled BVQ, and Carnitas products.
“Barvecue is excited to expand availability of our easy-to-prepare plant-based meats to chefs nationwide,” said founder Cooper on the partnership. “WebstaurantStore is focused on convenience with 24/7 online ordering from your laptop, desktop, or smartphone. Fast shipping, low prices, and outstanding customer service make WebstaurantStore the best choice to meet professional and food service supply needs,” he added.
Supporting Barvecue’s continued expansion through investment in the most recent equity round were several high-profile funds and individuals including VegInvest, Max Bazerman, Vegan Capital, Siddhi Capital, Alwyn Capital, and Stray Dog Capital.
To learn more about Barvecue’s mission, connect with the team and order products visit their website online.