Fast-growing Modern Milkman, a pioneer in sustainable grocery delivery, has made its second US acquisition.
Last year CEO and founder Simon Mellin moved to the US to oversee the company’s growth plans Stateside.
Following its first acquisition of its US namesake Modern Milkman, the company has now acquired Pine Tree Dairy’s home delivery network.
Modern Milkman moved its headquarters from Colne to Manchester in 2023 to aid their recruitment.
Mellin said: “This strategic move strengthens our presence in the Midwest and expands our reach across Ohio and beyond.
“Through this partnership, we’re joining forces with the Steiner family and the Pine Tree Dairy team to scale operations while maintaining our shared commitment to quality food and innovative use of technology.
“Pine Tree Dairy has built an impressive business, leveraging cutting-edge innovations – including a robotic farm – to enhance efficiency and sustainability. Their values align perfectly with our mission, making them an ideal partner as we continue to grow.
“With this acquisition, we gain a strong customer base in Cleveland and Akron, positioning us for further regional expansion.”
Mellin expects much of the business’s growth in the next few years to come from the US, as it focuses on profitability in the UK.
The entrepreneur added: “Pine Tree Dairy’s investment in manufacturing capabilities will help us scale our direct-to-consumer offerings, ensuring more households have access to great-quality food delivered straight to their doorsteps.
“Thank you especially to the Steiner family for their trust and partnership. We look forward to continuing their legacy and bringing even more customers into our ecosystem.”
The Modern Milkman was launched in 2018 after the founders were shocked at how single use plastics were killing animals and chocking the environment in an episode of Sir David Attenborough’s BBC series Blue Planet.
The company enjoyed exponential growth on the back of their mission to reuse packaging and allow consumers to shop ethically and sustainably.
In 2023 Modern Milkman secured B Corp status.
Modern Milkman UK has raised around £50m in investment, with investors including Insight Partners, Praetura Ventures, ETF Partners and Avery Dennison.
Mellin, who was included on BusinessCloud’s 2024 Northern Leaders list, has a reputation for not fitting the mould of what a tech entrepreneur looks and sounds like.
He speaks with a broad east Lancashire accent, loves tattoos and has a cauliflower ear from his days of doing mixed martial arts.