Otter & Co. Invests in Rootberry’s Nationwide Growth
Bold Flavors, Clean Ingredients: Otter & Co. Invests in Rootberry’s Nationwide Growth
St. Louis brand set to leap from 75 to 1,000 stores with allergen-friendly, ready to eat meals
St. Louis, MO – September 9, 2025 – Americans are moving away from ultra-processed foods in record numbers, and one St. Louis brand is ready to feed the change. Rootberry LLC—a maker of nutritionally balanced, allergen-friendly, ready-to-eat meals and snacks—is bringing bold flavors with real ingredients to more tables nationwide. With a significant investment from Otter & Company Capital Holdings, the brand is poised for its biggest growth yet—expanding from 75 to more than 1,000 retail locations by the end of 2025.
“Our mission is simple: craft meals that are naturally nutrient-dense, allergen-friendly, and always delicious,” says Marc Connor, Founder and President of Rootberry LLC. “People shouldn’t have to choose between taste and health—our food delivers both.”
Otter & Company Capital Holdings, a St. Louis-based investment firm specializing in acquisitions, partnerships, and growth of small business operations throughout the Midwest, recognizes the brand’s potential and is making a major move to back Rootberry. In addition, Otter & Co. will take on two board seats to actively support Rootberry’s expansion and open doors through personal relationships in the food business coast-to-coast.
“Today, we’re available in the upper Midwest and select areas on the East and West Coasts,” says Connor. “Otter & Co.’s investment strengthens our ability to serve more people through more retail outlets nationwide.”
Rootberry’s name is a play on “from the roots, come the fruits.” It began as a St. Louis fresh-to-consumer direct operation in 2021 before pivoting into packaged meals and snacks, now available locally at Dierbergs, Schnucks, Straubs, Fresh Thyme, and several universities and hospitals nationally.
The brand’s ready-to-heat frozen meals range from comfort classics to global inspirations like Tikka Masala, Caribbean Lentil Bowl, Korean Fried Rice, Peanut Stir Fry, Penne alla Vodka, and Fajita Bowl. The convenient grab-and-go Energy Bites are a well-rounded snack delivering protein and fiber in three wholesome flavors.
“I can personally attest to the flavor, variety, and quality of Rootberry products,” says Tom Kaiman, founder of Otter & Company Capital Holdings. “Our teams, many of whom are on their own health journeys, love the meals and snacks. The plant-based, low-sugar, high-protein options are a hit at home and in the office.”
Rootberry’s recipe for success:
· Make it real. No "manufactured" food—everything is made with sustainably sourced ingredients and partnerships with local suppliers whenever possible.
· Make it tasty. Nutrient-dense, protein-packed, fiber-rich, and low-to-no sugar.
· Make it easy. Available where people live, work, and play.
· Make it healthy. From the food to the packaging, everything is designed for a healthier person and planet.
Beyond consumers, Rootberry products are ideal for food service in schools, healthcare, senior living, travel and hospitality, restaurants, convenience stores, and catering.
“Otter & Co.’s role is to pour fuel on the fire and accelerate things for Rootberry,” says Kaiman. “We’re here to help shape the company for the massive growth potential it has.”
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About Rootberry
Rootberry makes nutritionally balanced, allergen-friendly, ready-to-eat meals and snacks with bold flavors and clean, non-GMO ingredients. Always dairy-free and gluten-free, Rootberry is designed to help more people enjoy food that tastes amazing and fits their lifestyle—without compromise. From globally inspired frozen meals to wholesome grab-and-go Energy Bites, Rootberry delivers convenience, nutrition, and great taste in every bite. Rootberry products are available in retailers across the Midwest, East Coast, and West Coast, with nationwide expansion underway. Learn more at rootberry.com
About Otter & Company Capital Holdings
Otter & Co. Capital Holdings (O&Co) is a St. Louis-based investment firm specializing in acquiring, partnering with, and growing small operating businesses across the Midwest and beyond. With a focus on creating sustainable, long-term growth, Otter & Co. Capital Holdings invests strategically to unlock synergies and accelerate business performance through operational excellence and strategic partnerships. Learn more at ottercompanycapital.com
For more information, contact: Sarah Stiehr, Triple Loop Marketing, 847.946.1880
