Kombuchacha, a Chilean startup known for its leadership in the kombucha market, has reached a significant milestone in its four-year history. The company, which specializes in producing the fermented beverage made from tea or herbs and cane sugar, has successfully raised external capital and formed a strategic alliance with the Kunstmann family. As part of thisKo partnership, Kunstmann has acquired a 25% stake in Kombuchacha.
This investment represents the largest funding received by Kombuchacha and marks Kunstmann's entry into the non-alcoholic beverages sector. The startup, founded by biodynamic farmer María Prieto and her husband Antonio Sánchez, PhD from ETH, plans to utilize the funds to expand its production capacity and achieve its goal of producing 1 million liters of kombucha this year.
Cervecería Kunstmann, founded in 1991in Valdivia/Chile, currently brews around 150,000 hectoliters of beer per year. The beers have become successful throughout Chile and the brewery has already achieved a presence in various South American countries. The core range currently consists of 13 different beer styles, complemented by two seasonal beers. The main brand, "Torobayo," stands out, as well as specialty beers infused with honey and cranberry. In addition, there is an experimental product line that continuously changes.
Describing the alliance as more than a commercial partnership, Prieto emphasized the enriching relationship with Kunstmann and their shared values. Both companies began their journeys in the kitchen of a house in southern Chile and have overcome similar challenges. Prieto expressed her admiration for Kunstmann's vision, commitment to maintaining their essence, and their ability to inspire.
Kunstmann expressed their motivation for entering the kombucha market, highlighting its emergence as a growing category with significant potential, particularly in the United States. They also emphasized their desire to contribute to Kombuchacha's growth, emphasizing shared values, a family-oriented approach, and a mutual passion for quality and sustainability.
Notably, Kombuchacha has positioned itself as a market leader by focusing on organic production outside the Metropolitan Region. They were the first in Chile to achieve organic certification, ensuring their products are free from chemicals, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms. Additionally, in 2020, they obtained the ISO 22,000 certification, a globally recognized standard for quality and food safety.