Zing Bars Founder Buys Back Brand from Strategic Partner

SEATTLE, WA.— Zing Bars, the award-winning protein bar brand founded by registered dietitians, today announced that an investor group led by founder David Ingalls and independent sponsor Dunedain Ventures has reacquired the brand from the American Licorice Company (ALC). The transaction concludes a multi-year strategic partnership during which Zing expanded its national footprint, strengthened its supply chain, and built a loyal base of repeat customers.

"This is a really meaningful moment for the Zing brand and myself personally," said David Ingalls, Founder and CEO of Zing Bars. "Zing began as a mission-driven brand built on real nutrition and great taste, and grew into something far bigger than I ever imagined. I'm grateful for the partnership with the American Licorice Company and the work we accomplished together. Bringing the brand back under founder ownership allows us to move faster, innovate more boldly, and reconnect even more deeply with our customers." Ingalls will continue to serve as Chief Executive Officer, leading the brand's next phase of growth.

In leading the round to bring Zing back under founder control, Dunedain Ventures Managing Partner James Shifren commented, "We are very excited to help the Zing Brand in this next phase of its growth. With its emphasis on real ingredients, high protein, prebiotic fiber and balanced nutrition, Zing is perfect for today's health-conscious consumers."

Founded with the goal of creating a protein bar that delivers both excellent nutrition and crave-worthy taste, Zing has earned strong consumer loyalty and retailer recognition. Zing Bars are currently sold online, through Amazon, and in select retail partners nationwide.

Under new founder ownership, Zing plans to:

• Expand innovation efforts, including new product development focused on taste, texture, and functional nutrition
• Increase investment in direct-to-consumer and digital growth channels, including Meta, Google, TikTok, and Amazon
• Reinforce Zing's core differentiation as a protein bar created and formulated by registered dietitians, emphasizing balanced macros and sustained energy
• The company will also prioritize disciplined, profitable growth and deeper engagement with its core consumer community

Additional updates regarding the brand's innovation roadmap and go-to-market initiatives will be announced in the months ahead.

About Zing Bars

Zing Bars is an award-winning protein bar brand founded and formulated by registered dietitians. Zing Bars are made with real, clean, nutrient-dense ingredients that deliver steady energy—all with exceptional taste. The brand is known for its real dark chocolate coating in select flavors and for being free from wheat/gluten, dairy, and soy. Zing Bars are Kosher, plant-based, provide meaningful protein and fiber, and are low in sugar, supporting balanced nutrition for active, health-conscious consumers. Top-selling flavors include Dark Chocolate Coconut, Dark Chocolate Cherry, Dark Chocolate Mint, and Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter, which have developed a loyal and highly engaged customer following nationwide.

Zing Bars are available nationwide online, including at the link below, Amazon, and select retail partners.