Alternative protein company YouKuai secures $7.3m in funding

Shanghai-based YouKuai Group International has completed a $7.3 million Series A financing round, as it aims to popularise plant-based eating in China.

The round was led by Trirec, a Singapore-based investment firm that has also invested in plant-based meat company Hungry Planet.

The round also received participation from Thibault Villet, co-founder and former CEO of Mei.com, as well as a number of individual investors from China and Asia.

Founded in 2019, YouKuai ultimately aims to offer plant-based alternatives in all categories currently using animal protein, as well as create charismatic brands with widespread consumer appeal.

The company’s first brand Zrou, which offers plant-based ground pork, sources all of its ingredients in China and is also manufactured in the country.

Zrou partners with Michelin restaurants and renowned chefs to create visually appealing dishes and has also built a community of influencers and culinary artists to help expand its reach.

The brand is served in more than 100 outlets across China, including over 25 international schools and corporate cafeterias, according to YouKuai.

“This round of financing is a recognition of our unique model of popularising alternative protein in China,” said Franklin Yao, founder and CEO of YouKuai Group International.

“It allows us to expand our partnership and strengthen our loyal fanbase through tasty, healthy, sustainable products and creative presentations. We believe our model tailored for local culinary art and early adopters will power YouKuai into a leading alternative protein company.”

Melvyn Yeo, co-founder of Trirec, said: “YouKuai’s plant-based protein provides a great alternative for the consumer to shift away from animal protein and directly reduce their carbon footprint in an easy and delicious manner.

“Moreover, YouKuai’s flagship Zrou products taste great, are versatile across a diverse set of cuisines, and are locally produced in China for the Chinese palette. Trirec is proud to be a partner in YouKuai’s endeavor, and we believe this new round of financing is only the beginning of an exciting journey.”