UK ice cream brand Northern Bloc has secured a ‘seven-figure’ investment from Mobeus Equity Partners to expand in the plant-based sector.
Founded in 2014, Northern Bloc offers a range of vegan and dairy ice creams in flavours such as hazelnut & tonka bean and vegan strawberry & yuzu.
The brand has national distribution in the UK retail sector, as well as an international footprint, and also sells its tubs through the out-of-home channel.
Northern Bloc says that it will use the new funds to increase its production capacity, strengthen its team and focus on its ‘brand experience’.
Dirk Mischendahl, who co-founded Northern Bloc with Josh Lee, said: “The appetite for sustainable eating has jumped forward five years in the space of just one. The result of our actions on the planet became very real in 2020, both in terms of the origin of the pandemic and the positive changes that were made to the environment during the global lockdown.
“Plant-based is no longer a dietary requirement, it’s fast becoming a way of life, and Northern Bloc is proud to be at the forefront of bold, innovative, amazing-tasting products which suit this revolution.
“Entering Veganuary, our aim is to continue to grow our business, building on our strong base in the retail market whilst maintaining our premium offering for the out-of-home sector.”
Jane Reoch, investment director at Mobeus Equity Partners, added: “Northern Bloc is a true breakthrough brand, well positioned for growth as the plant-based movement garners global attention.
“The products use all-natural flavours with no compromise on quality or taste. Dirk, Josh and the team have been a pleasure to work with throughout the transaction.”
In January 2020, Northern Bloc introduced fully recyclable and biodegradable packaging, replacing the plastic coating on its paper tubs with an organic alternative.
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