NEW TECH FOODS

Foodtech company Win-Win, known for creating what it claims is the UK’s first cocoa-free chocolate alternative, has closed a £3 million Series A funding round.

The investment, led by Oetker Collection and FoodLabs, brings the company’s total funding to £8 million.

The funds will support Win-Win’s UK operations, the development of new product lines, and expansion into key European markets, including Germany, France, Switzerland, Benelux and the Nordics.

Win-Win produces cocoa-free chocolate alternatives – including white, milk, vegan and dark varieties – made with ingredients like rice and carob. The company uses a fermentation and chocolate-making process that replicates the texture and taste of conventional chocolate while reducing water usage by up to 80% and cutting CO₂ emissions by 82%.

Mark Golder, CEO of Win-Win, said: "We’re delighted to conclude this funding round, which provides us with extra resources to continue on our mission, and deliver a sustainable and affordable alternative to chocolate. We’re grateful that industry specialists such as Oetker recognise the need and opportunity, and have chosen Win-Win for their investment."

He continued: “We all love chocolate, but the way it’s currently produced isn’t sustainable. Climate change is leading to reduced yields, causing spiralling prices and supply-chain uncertainty. As consumers, we’re already seeing the impact of this in the form of rising prices and shrinkflation, and the cacao industry continues to be troubled by issues relating to deforestation. The industry is at an inflection point and needs alternative solutions that are stable and more environmentally and socially sustainable."

“The team at Win-Win has developed patented breakthrough technology to deliver a cocoa-free alternative to chocolate that doesn’t compromise on appearance, taste or usage. We now have an incredible portfolio of chocolate alternative products, and this investment will help us to give manufacturers, food service providers and other businesses that use chocolate a delicious alternative that is better for both the planet and its people.”