Coconut Spread Maker Kokada Crowned Pitch Slam 11 Champion
Coconut spread maker Kokada was crowned champion at NOSH Live Pitch Slam 11, walking away with the title after impressing the judges with its allergen-friendly alternative to nut butters.
Presented by 301. Inc, the two-part pitch competition began on Thursday with a field of 11 brands presenting their two-minute pitches to the judges, who then picked the six finalists.
Today’s competitors included functional cookie maker Mmmly, internationally inspired ice cream brand Marco, mushroom jerky brand Munchrooms, coconut spread producer Kokada, microwaveable Power Pies maker Bob’s Natural and sprouted nut brand Rich Nuts. Each presented a five-minute pitch followed by feedback from andthe judges.
Judges included Gavin Konkel, VP of Merchandising, Center Store at Earth Fare; Heidi Traore, Business Development Manager, National Co+op Grocers; Country Archer Provisions CEO and co-founder Eugene Kang; and NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg.
As the winner, Kokada will receive an advertising package with NOSH valued at $10,000 along with the coveted Pitch Slam trophy.
Founded in 2019 by CEO Breanna Atkinson and COO Jared Golestani, two former college and professional athletes, Kokada is marketed as “the original coconut spread” and sold in original and brownie flavors. With Kokada, Atkinson and Golestani are aiming to capitalize on consumers’ love of nut butters, offering a twist on the beloved spreads that use no refined sugars.
The judges were impressed with Atkinson and Golestani’s shared passion for their product as much as the coconut spread itself. The two laid out a strong plan for growth in terms of retail distribution and innovation, planning in the short-term to expand with several new flavors next year before establishing a wider coconut-based platform of products.
Golestani said the company is aware of the “hypercompetitive” landscape in food and beverage and noted the innovation across the food space, especially among fellow Pitch Slam competitors, is “spectacular.” While Kokada has bootstrapped thus far, looking ahead Atkinson said the company is open to new opportunities with investors or retail partners that may come their way.
“We’re just trying to do our thing and if we attract a retailer’s or investor’s attention, then they’re a good match,” she said.
Kokada joins past Pitch Slam winners including frozen empanada brand Cocina 54, keto-friendly donut maker Elite Sweets, frozen appetizer brand Savorly, Know Brainer keto marshmallows, Beckon lactose-free ice cream and Creation Nation protein bar mixes.
