LesserEvil Raises Additional Capital to Continue Growth and Expansion

LesserEvil, the makers of organic popcorn and salty snacks, has recently secured a significant minority growth investment from Aria Growth Partners, a renowned private equity firm. This latest round of investment includes both primary and secondary investments, with existing investors such as Valor Equity, Invest Eco, and Touch Capital also participating. The funding will enable LesserEvil to further fuel its growth, expand its manufacturing operations, and increase its retail distribution.

Since its establishment in 2005, LesserEvil has garnered a loyal following by offering a unique selection of snacks made from organic and wholesome ingredients, all at affordable prices. The brand's commitment to "mindful snacking" has resonated with customers, resulting in remarkable growth over the past couple of years. LesserEvil has played a significant role in driving the growth of the popcorn category in mainstream channels. With the infusion of capital, the company is well-positioned for substantial expansion and accelerated consumer adoption, all while staying true to its mission of making healthy and sustainable snacks more accessible to everyone.

Aria Growth Partners recognizes the exceptional entrepreneurial skills of Charles Coristine and Andrew Strife, the founders of LesserEvil. Trevor Nelson, a partner at Aria Growth, commends the duo for their ability to build a high-growth and highly profitable mainstream food brand. Aria Growth is excited to partner with LesserEvil and its exceptional team as they embark on the next phase of development.

Having initially established a strong presence in the natural grocery channel, LesserEvil experienced explosive growth and consumer adoption in recent years as it expanded into mass market and conventional grocery retailers. The brand's products can now be found in leading retailers such as Target, Walmart, Whole Foods Market, Safeway Albertson's, and many others.

To accommodate its growth, LesserEvil manufactures all of its products at its facilities in Danbury and New Milford, Connecticut. With a portion of the investment proceeds, the company plans to expand its production facilities to meet the increasing demand.

Charles Coristine, CEO of LesserEvil, highlights the significance of self-manufacturing as they invest in their production capabilities. He emphasizes that having control over manufacturing allows them to continue providing innovative and better-for-you snacks that consumers crave. The company's commitment to delivering quality products is evident in its recognition as Whole Foods Market's National Award Recipient for Raising the Bar for Quality in 2020.

LesserEvil Healthy Brands, LLC prides itself on transforming snack time into mindful moments. The company creates delicious and on-trend snacks using the simplest, most sustainable, and functional ingredients available. Their premium portfolio includes Organic Popcorn, Grain-Free Organic Puffs, Sun Poppers, Space Balls, Cosmic Rings, Lil' Puffs, and Grain-Free Egg White Curls. LesserEvil products can be found in natural food stores, conventional retailers, and specialty retailers nationwide.

Aria Growth Partners, based in New York City, specializes in providing growth capital and strategic partnership to exceptional consumer brands. The firm invests across the consumer sector and currently partners with brands like The INKEY List and Onda Tequila Seltzer. Aria was also the investment partner of Hero Cosmetics, which was subsequently acquired by Church & Dwight.

With the recent investment from Aria Growth Partners, LesserEvil is poised for continued success and expansion. The company's commitment to offering healthier snack options aligns with the growing consumer demand for better-for-you products. As LesserEvil continues to grow, it will undoubtedly make a significant impact in the snacking industry, providing consumers with guilt-free and delicious options. To learn more about LesserEvil and explore their product offerings, visit their website at www.lesserevil.com.