The Symbiotic Evolution of Buchi and FedUp Foods

Buchi: The Stepping Stone to FedUp Foods

Sixteen years ago, Buchi was founded with a simple yet profound mission: to create a healthy beverage that its founders felt good about giving to their kids, families, and community. That beverage, Buchi Kombucha, opened the door to a world of fermented drinks and quickly became more than just a product—it became a symbol of our values and vision for a better future.

In 2017, Buchi achieved a significant milestone by opening one of the first commercial kombucha breweries in the Southeast—in Marshall, NC. This marked the beginning of ambitious growth, pushing the brand beyond its existing scale and into new opportunities, including the exciting realm of private label manufacturing, and the eventual birth of FedUp Foods.

FedUp Foods: Private Label

In 2020, Buchi shifted its strategy to focus on private label manufacturing, establishing FedUp Foods PBC (Public Benefit Corporation) as the parent company. The goal was to remain independently owned, while magnifying the company’s impact on the planet, people, and community by making delicious, high-quality, good-for-you beverages more affordable to a broader audience.

“If you’ve ever shopped for the best deal at a grocery store, chances are you’ve purchased a private label product,” said Zane Adams, Co-Founder & EVP of Strategy and Development at FedUp Foods. “Private label refers to the store’s “own brand”—think Laura Lynn, Harvest Farms, Greenwise, or Simple Truth. These brands collaborate with manufacturers like us to develop, package, and ship their beverages.”

What began as home-brewing kombucha in 1-gallon jars has now evolved into the largest private label fermented beverage manufacturer in North America. FedUp Foods is one of the pioneers in crafting “Better-for-You” functional beverages such as kombucha, prebiotic and probiotic sodas, water kefir and others. By brewing for multiple store brands worldwide, the company has gained the buying power to prioritize premium and regeneratively grown ingredients, which are shifting the way farmers grow - while also providing the highest quality beverages at affordable prices.

“We’re passionate about ensuring that more people can enjoy these beverages without compromising on quality. We are creating more access for more people across the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. If you’ve enjoyed a retail “own brand” kombucha, there’s a good chance we made it!” added Adams.

Following Their North Star

For over 16 years, the company’s North Star has been to create delicious, better-for-you beverages while using its resources to make a positive impact. As the company continues to grow and evolve, its commitment to this mission remains unwavering.

“In keeping with this commitment, we’ve made the difficult decision to retire our local Direct-to-Store (DSD) distribution as well as our Buchi Kombucha 12oz bottle line,” said Sarah Mullins, Co-Founder & VP of People and Purpose. “It’s a bittersweet moment,” she continued.

Buchi Kombucha will remain on tap at select locations, and cans of Wild Pop and Tepache will continue to be available at regional retailers.

“We know that Buchi Kombucha holds a special place in the hearts of our community,” said Jeannine Buscher, Co-Founder & EVP of Innovation “And our growth would not have been possible without the support of our loyal customers.”

David Gray, CEO of FedUp Foods, emphasized the company’s commitment to innovation, growth, and staying true to its values, stating, “In light of the evolving landscape within the food and beverage industry, particularly as grocers increasingly invest in private label offerings and consumers feel the pressure of inflation, we, as industry leaders, are committed to meeting the rising demand for high-quality, good-for-you beverages at an accessible price point. At the same time, we are dedicated to contributing positively to the communities and environment that make our business possible. We wouldn't be where we are today without the commitment of our entire team, and we're excited to grow and carry our mission forward.”

Looking Towards the Future

“To everyone who has been a part of our journey, we extend our deepest gratitude,” said Buscher. “Your support has been the cornerstone of our success, and we are incredibly grateful.”

FedUp Foods remains independently owned, with its original founders still at the helm, guiding the company with the same passion and dedication that started it all. As FedUp Foods continues to grow its team, open its third facility in Wilmington, NC, and launch its cold brew coffee line over the next year, exciting developments are on the horizon.

About FedUp Foods

FedUp Foods PBC (Public Benefit Corporation) is one of the nation’s pioneering producers of kombucha and one of the largest functional beverage manufacturers in America. The company offers a diverse portfolio of private label organic functional beverages for top global retailers. FedUp Foods’ commitment to quality, innovation, and the communities in which it operates continues to drive its success.

For more information, visit fedupfoods.co and follow the company on LinkedIn for updates.

Media Contact: Jennifer Rozzelle
Email: Jenn.Rozzelle@fedupfoods.co