German confectionery manufacturer Katjes Group has invested in Berlin-based ‘superfood’ start-up The Rainforest Company via its investment arm Katjesfreenfood.

Katjesgreenfood now owns 10% of the two-year-old company but the amount it has invested has not been disclosed.

The move is Katjesgreenfood’s ninth investment since it was founded in 2016.

The Rainforest Company produces frozen açaí puree, a ‘superfood’ from the Brazilian rainforest used for breakfast bowls or smoothies. It is based on berries which are harvested by hand.

The product was developed by Swiss founder Albana Rama in collaboration with fitness guru Pamela Reif, who also acts as brand ambassador. 

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The purple puree has been on sale since March in more than 3,500 supermarkets in German-speaking countries, including big name German grocers Rewe and Edeka.

The Rainforest Company plans to use Katjesgreenfood’s investment money to bring a ready-to-eat Açaí-Bowl to the market. 

It is already generating sales in the “six-digit Euro range,” Katjes said.

The company donates money for every product sold towards reforesting the rainforest. 

Rama said: “With Katjesgreenfood, we have brought on board a strategic partner who supports us not only with capital, but also with his strong network and valuable know-how.” 

Dr. Manon Sarah Littek, CEO of Katjesgreenfood, said: “The Rainforest Company is the pioneer for sustainable açaí and offers a world novelty with the high-pressure pasteurized To-Go Açaí- Bowl. The Rainforest Company’s combination of wild harvests, direct, non-intermediary sourcing and local social engagement makes it a role model for social entrepreneurship.”

Asked how it would contribute to the start-up’s growth, a Katjesgreenfood spokesperson said: “We know how to build brands. [In] everything related to marketing and sales we can be very useful. For example, we have already given advice on the new logo.” 

See just-food’s guide: Big Food’s Stake in the Future – In-House Venture Capital Funds