Misha’s Acquires Vertage: Dairy-Free Cheese Consolidation
Misha’s, Inc. is expanding its portfolio of premium dairy-free cheeses with the acquisition of Vertage in a deal that leverages Vertage’s partnership with Fresh Del Monte Produce, providing access to its comprehensive logistics network and capabilities. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“By integrating Vertage’s expertise and leveraging Fresh Del Monte’s infrastructure, we’re not only scaling our operations but also evolving our product offerings to meet consumer demand,” said Aaron Bullock, founder and CEO of Misha’s Inc., in a statement.
Founded in 2018, Misha’s produces a range of artisan soft-cheese alternatives using cashews, olive oil and vegan cultures and featuring elevated flavor profiles such as Black Truffle, Smoked Cheddar and a boursin-inspired French Connection. The products are sold in more than 1,100 retail outlets across the country, including Kroger, Walmart, Erewhon and Whole Foods Market.
Drawing on traditional cheesemaking techniques and patent-pending fermentation processes, Vertage’s chef-created line includes plant-based takes on mozzarella, American cheddar, pepper jack and cream cheese. The products are crafted from cashews, pea protein, coconut oil and other simple ingredients and sold in specialty grocers as well as served in plant-based restaurants.
Misha’s plans to introduce shredded and sliced cheeses this year, as well as enter additional product categories, tapping into Vertage’s technology and Fresh Del Monte’s production capabilities.
Tim Wildin, CEO of Vertage, will transition to the role of CMO at Misha’s. Previously he was brand director at Chipotle Mexican Grill.
“Misha’s and Vertage share a mission to reimagine the future of food. This acquisition allows us to bring our innovations to more consumers while staying true to our commitment to taste, quality, and sustainability,” Wildin said in a statement.
Additionally, the partnership with Fresh Del Monte’s inland logistics arm, Tricont Trucking and Logistics, is expected to broaden Misha’s reach into new regions and streamline its supply chain..
The transaction was supported by investors including QVT Financial LP, Composite Capital Partners LLC, Gaingels and Fresh Del Monte. Misha’s early backers include Marcy Venture Partners Fund II, Lisa Shamus & Partners and Chris Paul.
Global retail dollar sales of plant-based cheese reached an estimated $896 million in 2023, per data provided by the Good Food Institute. According to Innova Market Insights, North America is the second largest region for new non-dairy cheese product launches, with popular positionings including “free from” claims, no additives and preservatives, regenerative farming practices and carbon neutral labeling.
