Startup

Mushroom Material is transforming the packaging industry with its eco-friendly alternative to styrofoam. “Our material matches the properties of styrofoam for impact resistance, as well as thermal and acoustic insulation while being 100% sustainable and home compostable,” explains Mushroom Material’s CEO, Shaun Seaman. This breakthrough technology, derived from mushrooms, positions Mushroom Material to meet the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Using their industry-first pellet method, they can scale production using existing molding machinery, ensuring seamless integration into current supply chains. From Skepticism to Finalist Mushroom Material’s rise to becoming a finalist in JEC World’s 2023 Startup Booster competition was unexpected. “Honestly, I don’t remember hearing about the competition. I was applying for anything and everything at the time,” Seaman says. Initially doubtful about the relevance of this particular competition, the team soon realized the value of the opportunity. Attending JEC World turned out to be a game-changer. “It’s been the best event I’ve attended, with excellent organization, massive exposure, and impactful 1-on-1 meetings,” Seaman confirms. Overcoming Stage Fright The pressure of presenting at a major event like JEC World can be daunting, especially for first-time participants. “This was my first real event, so it was very intimidating,” admits Seaman. However, with the support of the JEC World team, the experience was smooth. “Huge thanks to the team—they’re fantastic people and looked after us.” Despite the nerves, the pitch led to significant connections and opportunities, proving the competition’s value to their business. Pro Tips for JEC World 2025 Participants Reflecting on their experience, Mushroom Material’s founder offers advice for future participants in JEC World’s Startup Booster competition: “Make sure you have more than one person! We were overwhelmed by the number of people who wanted to connect with us after our presentation.” Bringing a team to manage networking is crucial to making the most of the event. “If I were to do it again, I’d bring one or two more people with me,” he suggests, emphasizing the importance of leveraging the networking opportunities. JEC World’s Impact on Mushroom Material One of the most memorable moments for Mushroom Material was realizing the scale of JEC World 2023. “The event was bigger than anything New Zealand has to offer,” Seaman shares. The global exposure and the opportunity to network with industry leaders were both humbling and exciting. “It was wildly memorable and had a significant impact on us,” he says, reinforcing the importance of attending international events like JEC World for startups looking to scale. The Future of Mushroom Material in Sustainable Packaging As Mushroom Material continues to grow, the company has big plans for the future. “Styrofoam is out, Mushroom Material is in. We’ll be the new household name. Watch this space,” Seaman says. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, Mushroom Material is poised to lead the next wave of sustainable packaging in the composites industry. Over the next five years, they aim to become a key player in replacing styrofoam with environmentally friendly, compostable alternatives. Ready to take your startup to the next level? Apply for JEC World’s 2025 Startup Booster competition before the final deadline on October 28th. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain exposure, mentorship, and investment!

Founded in 2024 by Dayog KABORE, AFOODS® Group is a pioneering food startup transforming our approach to food. With the tagline “A tasting journey to the origin,” AFOODS® merges African expertise with modern techniques to craft innovative, healthy products like PICE PELUS® and AKAJU®. By upcycling cacao, coffee fruit, and cashew apple, AFOODS® offers a unique culinary experience, reconnecting consumers with the roots of these foods. The founder says, “We want to take our consumers on a taste journey back to where it all begins.” Tackling Food Waste Through Innovation under African Food AFOODS® was born from the founders’ desire to address the “ugly realities” associated with popular commodities like cocoa, coffee, and cashews. These ingredients, while widely loved, are often underutilized in modern manufacturing. As African migrants with extensive European experience, the founders leveraged their expertise to create sustainable food innovations. They explain, “These commodities have untapped potential. We saw an opportunity to change that by combining African know-how with modern processing techniques.” Unique Value Proposition and Market Positioning AFOODS® stands out in the competitive food industry by upcycling food waste into high-value products. With minimal B2C competition, their authenticity and competitive pricing position them to capture significant market share. In the B2B sector, the founders believe that they can outshine market leaders and secure a strong foothold with the right funding, stating, “Our authenticity and lower prices will drive our success.” Growth and Expansion AFOODS® is strategically expanding its presence in both Africa and Europe. Based in the Ivory Coast, the company is setting up a sales and marketing team in France to penetrate the European market. “We are looking to expand in France and are keen to meet potential B2B customers, retailers, and investors who can help us grow our market share,” the team shared. This dual-market approach is essential for AFOODS® as they introduce their innovative products to a broader audience. AFOODS® – African Food at SIAL Startup Village and Beyond They view SIAL Startup Village as a critical platform for growth. “We aim to connect with B2B customers and investors who align with our vision while raising brand awareness and establishing key partnerships,” the founders said. In 2024, they plan to expand their customer base, boost sales, and secure funding to drive innovation. AFOODS® is committed to making a mark in the global market, reconnecting consumers with the roots of African cuisine.

Goxoa Sports Beer emerged from the founder’s personal experience of trying to enjoy a beer while maintaining athletic performance. “In France, alcohol-free beers didn’t offer the experience I was looking for as an athlete,” says the founder Jonathan Dubois. This challenge inspired Goxoa, a brand focused on delivering delicious, functional alcohol-free (AF) beers for athletes. “Goxoa means ‘delicious’ in Basque, and that’s exactly what we want to deliver,” he adds. As the first brand dedicated to athletes, Goxoa aims to redefine the AF beer market in France. A Game-Changer for Active Lifestyles The idea behind Goxoa Sports Beer was born out of necessity. “I struggled to balance my love for beer with my athletic lifestyle,” explains Jonathan. Athletes in France often avoided alcohol-free beers due to poor taste and a lack of relevance to their needs. Goxoa addresses these issues by creating functional beers that taste great and support recovery and performance. “We decided to create beers that offer the best taste and functional benefits for athletes,” says the founder, introducing a new niche in the French sports beverage market. Marketing and Business Expertise Combined Goxoa Sports Beer is powered by a skilled team of 10, combining marketing and business expertise. “Marcelo brings years of experience as a marketing director in the FMCG industry, a critical skill for a beverage brand,” shares the founder. With his experience in startups, finance, and business, he believes their combined strengths create a fast-paced, high-potential project. Operating from Montpellier and Madrid, Goxoa’s team is positioned to dominate the alcohol-free beer space for athletes across Europe. The Best Alcohol-Free Beer for Athletes Goxoa’s competitors may produce great-tasting AF beers, but they miss out on the functional benefits that athletes seek. “Athletic Brewing has a strong product, but it doesn’t fully serve the needs of athletes,” says the founder. Goxoa Sports Beer, on the other hand, focuses on providing athletes with both great taste and functional benefits, making it a more relevant choice. “We focus on giving athletes an enjoyable beer experience that supports their active lifestyle,” he adds. Goxoa Sports Beer’s Explosive Growth Despite being founded in 2022, Goxoa Sports Beer has experienced remarkable growth, selling over 100,000 units in just 12 months through more than 600 resellers. “There’s a real demand for functional alcohol-free beers for athletes,” the founder says. As Goxoa sets its sights on 2024, its goal is clear: “We want to flood the French sports market and become the go-to alcohol-free beer for athletes.” Expanding the Market for Alcohol-Free Beers for Athletes Looking to the future, Goxoa Sports Beer plans to dominate the French sports market in 2024 with its unique alcohol-free beer offering. “Our goal is to bring Goxoa to every athlete in France,” says the founder. Participating in SIAL Startup Village is a key part of their growth strategy, providing opportunities for strategic partnerships and investor support. “We expect to connect with key players who will help us scale and bring Goxoa to athletes across Europe,” he adds.

Reinventing the Egg: The Yumgo Journey Yumgo, a French startup founded in 2019 by Anne Vincent and Rodolphe Landemaine, is on a mission to revolutionize the way we think about eggs. With a unique name derived from “Yummy” and “Tamago” (the Japanese word for egg), Yumgo offers a complete range of plant-based egg alternatives designed for professional use in both sweet and savory recipes. As Vincent explains, “The idea for Yumgo came from a simple observation: we need to change our eating habits. Eggs, the most widely consumed animal protein in the world, are irreplaceable, so what can we do? That’s how the idea of Yumgo came.” Addressing the Problem: Sustainable Eating Eggs are a staple in many diets, yet they come with significant environmental and ethical concerns. Yumgo addresses this issue head-on by providing allergen-free, plant-based egg replacements that boast a carbon impact 70% lower than traditional eggs. “Yumgo is today the reference in professional egg replacement,” says Landemaine. The startup’s products include whole eggs, egg yolks, and egg whites in both liquid and powder formats, ensuring versatility and ease of use for culinary professionals. A Unique Solution and Value Proposition What sets Yumgo apart from its competitors is its dedication to providing a product that doesn’t compromise on taste or performance. As Landemaine puts it, “Yumgo offers culinary performance similar to that of eggs, with equivalent deliciousness.” This commitment to quality has made Yumgo a trusted name among premium restaurants and industrial food producers. Growth Strategy and Future Plans Yumgo’s growth strategy involves expanding its customer base and continuing to innovate. The team, based in Paris, is dedicated to developing new products and increasing brand awareness. “We will develop more products and enhance brand awareness compared to our competitors,” Landemaine notes. Participating in events like SIAL Startup Invest is a key part of this strategy, providing opportunities to boost the brand and generate leads. Looking Ahead: Expectations from SIAL Startup Invest By joining SIAL Startup Village, Yumgo aims to enhance its visibility and establish valuable connections. Vincent emphasizes the importance of such events, stating, “To boost our brand and to participate in these big events to get leads.” The team is looking forward to meeting potential investors, customers, and partners, all while showcasing their innovative products. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

LA FABRIQUE A NUAGE setting the stage for a delightful transformation in the world of confectionery. Founded in 2023 by Florian Baud, this French startup introduces the first sugar-free cotton candy with a Nutriscore A. Their tagline, “LA FABRIQUE A NUAGE, la barbe à papa autrement!” translates to “cotton candy, but different!”—perfectly capturing their innovative spirit and commitment to a healthier twist on a beloved treat. The Name Behind the Magic of Sugar-Free Cotton Candy The choice of name for the company reflects its core mission and product. “We have our own brand NUAGE, the first sugar-free cotton candy,” the founder explained. “LA FABRIQUE A NUAGE is a French brand that speaks to everyone!” This name not only highlights their flagship product but also emphasizes their goal of making a healthier version of cotton candy accessible to all. Meeting the Market Demand for Sugar-Free Cotton Candy The founder launched LA FABRIQUE A NUAGE after noticing a gap in healthy snack options. “The market for healthy treats is booming, but few solutions are available and distribution channels are underutilized,” they said. This insight led to the creation of LA FABRIQUE A NUAGE, aiming to provide healthier treats and innovative distribution methods. Strategically Positioned for Success Operating from both Dijon and Paris, LA FABRIQUE A NUAGE has strategically assembled its team to align with the business model. “We build our team according to the distribution channels,” the founder explained. Each department specializes in its field—events, retail, and commercial property. This expert-driven approach allows the company to manage every aspect of the business with high efficiency and expertise. Standing Out in the Market Despite a niche market, LA FABRIQUE A NUAGE faces few direct competitors due to its unique positioning. “We have few competitors due to our positioning. Several attempts at cotton candy were made but the distribution circuits being low in value, it did not work,” they explained. By focusing on sugar-free options and more effective distribution channels, they aim to differentiate themselves from indirect competitors who do not target the same market. Building Future Success Revenue generation for LA FABRIQUE A NUAGE involves multiple streams: “Events: sale of services to brands. Retail: sale of personalized cotton candy bags. Property: sale of cotton candy through automatic machines in shopping centers,” the founder outlined. As they gain traction in these areas, their participation in SIAL Startup Village aims to boost visibility and build valuable relationships. “We expect to build relationships and sign new clients,” they concluded, highlighting their strategic focus on growth and market expansion. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

Bankflip emerged from the combined expertise of co-founders Álvaro Mancilla, Gabriel Esteban, and Honorio Marín, each bringing a unique set of skills and a shared passion for fintech innovation. Álvaro, the CEO, has over a decade of experience in Tech startups, especially in FinTech and EdTech. Gabriel, the CTO, began his tech journey at age 13, and Honorio, the CPO, offers a strong technical and entrepreneurial background. The trio first collaborated at Goin, a B2C savings app, where they discovered the transformative power of FinTech. Their collective experience and vision led to the founding of Bankflip—a startup dedicated to revolutionizing financial services through permission-based data platforms. Streamlining FinTech Document Processing Bankflip addresses the complexity of collecting and processing documents for loans, credit, and mortgages in FinTech. Their solution simplifies and speeds up this process, enabling secure, real-time data management with user consent. By interfacing with public authorities, Bankflip streamlines document collection, such as tax returns and income verification, boosting efficiency and cutting costs. This automation increases conversion rates and reduces drop-offs, ensuring a smooth experience for both institutions and users. Competitive Edge in a Crowded Market Bankflip stands out in the competitive FinTech landscape with its extensive data coverage, superior user experience, and robust technological infrastructure. They cover 90% of the market in Spain alone, offering financial institutions a single access point for all required data. Their no-code solutions and intuitive APIs make integration effortless, giving them a competitive edge. According to the founders, “Our biggest competitive advantage is the combination of data/market coverage, user experience, tech robustness, and developer experience.” This unique approach has solidified Bankflip’s position as a leader in the Spanish FinTech market. Growth Strategy and Funding Success Bankflip employs a sales-driven go-to-market strategy, focusing on enterprise and mid-market financial companies. Their emphasis on customer success has enabled them to expand steadily within their client base. After securing two funding rounds—a pre-seed in November 2021 and a Seed round of €2.6M in December 2023—Bankflip is now focused on expanding its customer base in Spain and Portugal. Additionally, they are seeking design partners in France to tailor their solution for the local market, aligning with their long-term goal of becoming the leading pan-European platform for permission-based data processing in financial services. Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities As Bankflip expands internationally, it faces the challenge of adapting its technology to meet the specific needs of each new market. This involves building connectors with local public authorities and customizing their solutions to handle country-specific regulations. However, the founders view these challenges as opportunities to strengthen their competitive advantage. Bankflip is at the forefront of the digital transformation sweeping the financial sector, where online platforms are increasingly becoming the norm across Europe. By staying ahead of these trends, Bankflip aims to drive the digitalization of financial services, providing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of the industry. In the coming months, Bankflip will participate in major industry events such as The District, South Summit, and Viva Tech, focusing on expanding its network of customers and investors. With a solid foundation and a clear vision for the future, Bankflip is poised to make a significant impact in the global fintech industry.

Founded in 2015 by Chiara Rota, My Cooking Box is an Italian startup that blends the rich heritage of Italian cuisine with the convenience of modern meal kits. Inspired by foreign visitors’ desire to recreate Italian dishes at home, the startup developed meal kits that allow anyone, regardless of their cooking experience, to easily prepare iconic Italian meals. The Unique Offering: My Cooking Box My Cooking Box is not just another meal kit; it’s a carefully curated experience. Each box contains all the ingredients, perfectly portioned and 100% Made in Italy, to cook a traditional Italian dish. The recipes, crafted by renowned chefs, are designed to be easy to follow, ensuring that anyone can enjoy the rich culinary heritage of Italy in their kitchen. “Our mission is to offer a product that allows people to appreciate the culinary richness of Italy,” says the team. The long shelf-life of the ingredients also adds a practical element, making it convenient for consumers to enjoy a gourmet meal whenever they choose. A Young, Dynamic Team from Bergamo The team behind My Cooking Box operates from Bergamo, a picturesque city near Milan. This young, driven group of professionals is passionate about spreading the flavors of Italy across the globe. Their energy and commitment are key to the brand’s success, as they work tirelessly to innovate and expand the reach of their product. “We want to make a difference and bring our brand to succeed worldwide,” the team explains, showcasing their ambition and dedication. Expanding Horizons: Revenue Models and Market Reach The company’s revenue model is diversified across B2B and B2C channels. Direct-to-consumer sales are driven through its proprietary e-commerce platform and major online marketplaces. On the B2B side, it focuses on partnerships with international supermarket chains and importers, particularly in North America, its largest market. “We are looking to grow the brand and increase awareness,” the team notes, as it sets its sights on expanding into new markets. A Launchpad for Growth for Italian Meal Kit My Cooking Box sees the SIAL Startup Village event as a crucial opportunity to elevate its brand. They aim to connect with key players in the European and U.S. supermarket sectors, securing partnerships that will help them scale. “We expect to gain solid leads from European and U.S. supermarket chains,” the team says, emphasizing the importance of this event in their growth strategy. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

Are you passionate about avocados but concerned about food waste? Soilmates turn imperfect avocados into premium, eco-friendly avocado oil, offering a delicious solution to the problem of food waste. By supporting Soilmates, you contribute to reducing food waste while enjoying high-quality avocado oil. The Economic Impact of Food Waste: A $1 Trillion Global Crisis Food waste is a pressing global issue. The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that about 1.3 billion tons of food are wasted annually. Remarkably, around 40% of produce is discarded due to cosmetic imperfections or spoilage. This waste not only harms the environment but also results in economic losses estimated at $1 trillion per year by the World Bank. Addressing these inefficiencies in the food supply chain is crucial. Soilmates: Revolutionizing Avocado Oil Production with Sustainability In 2021, Avocado enthusiast Dave Le Roux and sustainability advocate Sander Breedveld launched Soilmates in Berlin, with a dedication to creating high-quality avocado oil while actively combating food waste. They upcycle avocados rejected for their appearance, transforming them into a product that promotes environmental responsibility. “We tackle food waste by using ‘ugly’ avocados that are perfectly good for consumption,” the team explains. By offering these avocados a second chance, Soilmates supports a circular economy and demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices. Avocado Oil: A Sustainable Choice Soilmates provides a unique alternative to traditional olive oil. Their avocado oil, available in major supermarkets throughout the Netherlands, combines convenience with environmental values. Unlike olive oil, Soilmates’ product is rich in flavor, has a high smoke point, and is packed with antioxidants. Their goal is to expand across the EU, making their sustainable avocado oil more widely available. A Launchpad for Growth Soilmates’ participation in SIAL Startup Village underscores their commitment to growth and industry leadership. This platform provides valuable opportunities to connect with potential investors and partners, advancing their mission to innovate within the food tech industry. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

LIXR redefined energy drinks with natural ingredients to create a healthier energy drink alternative. The story of LIXR LIXR, founded in 2023 by Hristo Vatashki, an expert in sales and administration management, and his brother, the renowned Bulgarian musician Ventsislav Chanov, who has a strong marketing background, is on a mission to revolutionize the energy drink industry. Backed by a small but dedicated team of three, LIXR offers a healthier and more sustainable alternative. Crafted with a unique blend of natural ingredients, the company provides a sustained energy boost without the harmful additives found in traditional energy drinks. A Healthier Energy Drink Alternative Driven by a desire for a healthier lifestyle, the company was born from the need for a natural and effective energy source. “Each LIXR drink contains 115mg of natural caffeine and 150mg of natural L-Theanine, extracted from guarana and green matcha tea,” explains Hristo, “The synergistic effect of these ingredients is gradually released, helping you maintain high levels of focus and productivity for up to 6 hours.” LIXR caters to a diverse range of high-performance individuals, including entrepreneurs, athletes, students, and professionals. Competing and Expanding LIXR differentiates itself from competitors by prioritizing natural ingredients and eliminating added sugars and sweeteners. This commitment to transparency and superior taste has allowed the company to build early traction in the Bulgarian market. To further expand its reach and introduce LIXR to a global audience, the company is actively seeking strategic partnerships and investments through the platform SIAL Startup Village. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

Moderato, a French startup founded in 2020, is revolutionizing the wine industry with its premium alcohol-free wines. Based in Paris and comprised of a passionate team of ten, Moderato aims to provide a high-quality alternative to traditional wine. Their tagline, “French wine is having its revolution, and it’s alcohol-free,” reflects their commitment to offering a new way to enjoy wine that aligns with modern lifestyle choices. Why ‘Moderato’? The name “Moderato” was chosen for its universal appeal and symbolic meaning. It signifies the perfect balance between enjoyment and moderation. Co-founders Fabien Marchand-Cassagne and Sebastien Thomas explain, “Moderato evokes a sense of striking the right balance.” This principle guides their mission to offer exceptional alcohol-free wine without compromising taste. The Founders’ Vision of Premium Alcohol-free Wines Fabien and Seb, the founders of Moderato, met through a mutual friend who saw their potential for collaboration. They combined their expertise to create a project that fulfills their ambitions and aims to impact society positively. Their innovative approach to wine reflects their passion and commitment to progress. Standing Out in the Wine Market Moderato distinguishes itself in a competitive market among numerous players by focusing on excellence in dealcoholized French wine. “We have a story and brand that are both unique and universal,” says the team. Their dedication to producing high-quality wines from fine French terroirs and a strong emphasis on brand identity and communication set them apart. Future Goals and Expansion Plans for 2024 Moderato has ambitious plans for 2024, including a turnover target of €2 million and expansion into Canadian and US markets. They also plan to launch a limited edition cuvée and continue their growth efforts. Fabien shares, “Our participation in SIAL Startup Village is a step towards increased visibility and traction from the Food & Beverage sectors across Europe and the world.” With clear goals and a robust strategy, Moderato is poised for an exciting year ahead. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

Essento is on a mission to revolutionize the food industry by harnessing the power of insects. This innovative company produces various delicious and nutritious food products, all crafted using sustainably sourced insect protein. A Taste of the Future With a focus on taste and sustainability, Essento offers a variety of options to cater to different lifestyles. From hearty burgers and meatball alternatives to convenient protein shakes, bars, and snacks, there’s something for everyone. Their new sports line, designed and developed in Switzerland, promises to provide athletes with high-quality nutrition to fuel their performance. Why Insect protein? The decision to incorporate insect protein into their products was driven by a deep concern for the environment and a desire to find sustainable solutions to global food challenges. ” After the release of the FAO report in 2013 with the ecological and sanitary potential of edible insects, it was clear that we needed to bring this protein source to the European market,” Christian Bärtsch, the CEO&Founder said. A Team of Passionate Innovators in insect protein Essento’s team is a diverse quartet comprising individuals with expertise in economics, marketing, animal welfare, food science, and biology. Their combined knowledge and passion fuel the company’s commitment to crafting exceptional products that are delicious and planet-friendly. Targeting a Conscious Consumer Essento’s target audience is young, urban, and environmentally conscious individuals who seek high-quality, sustainable food options. By offering a wide range of products and building a strong network of partners, the company aims to differentiate itself from competitors and become a leading player in the insect protein market. Building a Sustainable Future Boasting a robust product line and a burgeoning customer base, Essento is primed for substantial expansion in 2024. The company has successfully secured listings for 6 SKUs in over 200 stores operated by Coop, Switzerland’s retail behemoth. Moreover, Coop’s online platform has facilitated the distribution of Essento products across the EU, particularly emphasizing the German market. Essento’s participation in the SIAL Startup Village demonstrates its ambition to reach a wider audience and establish partnerships with major European retailers. The goal for this year is to grow their business and increase the number of outlets and sales partners in Germany and Switzerland. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

OLALA!, a young and vibrant company founded in France in 2021, is pioneering the world of 100% plant-based seafood alternatives. Driven by the urgent need for sustainable food solutions, they offer a delicious and innovative range of 6 products, including plant-based smoked salmon, salmon flakes, raw salmon and tuna, tuna crumbles, and tarama. All their products are crafted with natural-origin ingredients, boasting a taste that rivals the real deal. More Than Just OLALA! – It’s Scrumptious! “We believe plant-based food shouldn’t be a compromise on flavor,” says their team, a passionate mix of food enthusiasts, researchers, and chefs. We’ve spent 18 months perfecting our recipes to ensure an unparalleled taste experience. Produced in Boulogne-sur-Mer, France, near some of the country’s largest fishing ports, we are strategically positioned to understand the industry and its impact. Why “OLALA!”? This memorable name reflects our French roots and perfectly captures the delightful surprise their products evoke. “It’s a universally recognized expression of wonder – exactly the reaction we aim for when people experience OLALA! for the first time, “Simon Ferniot, the CEO & Co-Founder, explained. Why Plant-Based Seafood? Overfishing and climate change pose a serious threat to our oceans. By offering a delicious and sustainable alternative, they empower consumers to make a positive impact with every bite. “If we don’t radically reduce overfishing, there won’t be any fish left in the ocean by 2050,” they said. Their products boast a significantly lower carbon footprint than traditional seafood, making them a win for your taste buds and the planet. A Global Mission with Local Roots “Our team of 23, including 7 specialized food engineers, operates across multiple locations in France—from state-of-the-art production facilities to R&D labs in Paris, and an export team based in Amsterdam. This international presence allows us to cater to a global audience while maintaining a strong connection to our French heritage.” the team said. Who We Serve OLALA! primarily targets the food service industry and the B2B sector, both in France and internationally. They partner with distributors and restaurateurs seeking to diversify their menus with innovative and sustainable plant-based options. Their end consumers include everyone from flexitarians and vegans to curious foodies who appreciate delicious and responsible food choices. Standing Out from the Tide While competitors exist in the plant-based seafood and meat space, their unwavering focus on taste sets us apart. They believe that deliciousness is key to driving long-term change, “Our meticulous recipe development, extensive taste testing, and collaboration with chefs ensure our products are not just good for you and the planet, but truly satisfying to eat,” the team said. Making Waves: Traction and Recognition Since launching in May 2023, OLALA! has gained the trust of key players in the French market. They collaborate with distributors (Vegetal Food, PrevoGel, Foodex, Pomona) and restaurant chains (EXKI, Google, Bloom Sushi, Land&Monkeys), with their first retail presence at Kumo. Their reach extends to other European countries like the Netherlands, Germany, and Israel, with the UK soon to follow. Positive media coverage, participation in trade shows, and a podcast series (“Un pavé dans la mer“) have further solidified their brand recognition. Why SIAL Startup Village? “Participating in SIAL Startup Village aligns perfectly with our commercial and marketing strategy, having seen the success of trade shows like Taste of Paris, we are eager to leverage SIAL’s vast network and media opportunities. ” the team said. They believe this participation will significantly enhance their visibility, open new business avenues, and solidify their presence in the market. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!