Butternut Box, a scaleup that delivers fresh dog food through a tech platform similar to Deliveroo, has successfully raised £280 million in funding. The company’s journey began when David Nolan witnessed the positive effects of home-cooked meals on a rescued Staffordshire Bull Terrier named Rudie. In 2015, along with co-founder Kevin Glynn, they balanced their day jobs in the City while preparing and delivering meals on weekends. Eventually, they left their jobs to focus solely on Butternut Box.
Currently, Butternut Box holds the distinction of being Europe’s largest brand of fresh dog food. They serve dogs in the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, and most recently Poland through the acquisition of PsiBufet in April 2023. In their recent funding round, they received support from General Atlantic, a prominent global growth equity firm, as well as existing investor L Catterton, a leading consumer-focused investment firm.
The funds raised will be devoted to expanding the company’s reach across Europe, including the establishment of a new manufacturing facility. This facility will be Butternut Box’s second, complementing Rudie’s Kitchen, a fully integrated manufacturing and fulfillment facility that opened in March 2021. By having complete oversight and control over their emissions production, the company aims to minimize its environmental impact.
Kevin Glynn expressed his enthusiasm regarding the partnership with General Atlantic and their shared vision of developing the category of fresh pet food across Europe. He also acknowledged the continued support of long-standing partner L Catterton, emphasizing their belief in the potential of fresh pet food. Ultimately, Glynn emphasized the positive impact the investment will have on customers, both canine and human.
David Nolan, whose dog Rudie’s flatulence inspired his name, expressed his team’s collective commitment to delivering health and happiness to dogs everywhere. He believes this investment will propel them forward in fulfilling their mission. Butternut Box offers a range of 12 fresh recipes for core meals, as well as a growing selection of treats, chews, and supplements.
Melis Kahya Akar, Managing Director and Head of Consumer for EMEA at General Atlantic, voiced the excitement of partnering with Kevin and David, who have revolutionized the fresh pet food market through Butternut Box’s diverse product portfolio and mission-driven brand. Akar sees great potential within the EMEA’s fresh pet food category and believes that Butternut Box is well-positioned to meet the growing demand with its digitally enabled business model. General Atlantic is eager to leverage their expertise and technology capabilities to support Butternut Box in its next phase of growth.
Butternut Box’s successful funding round will facilitate their expansion in Europe and the development of a new manufacturing facility. With the support of General Atlantic and L Catterton, Butternut Box aims to continue its mission of delivering health and happiness to dogs everywhere.
