Branching out: Midcoast herbal brand eyes further expansion
File photo / Fred Field
Herbal Revolution founder and CEO Kathi Langelier grows medicinal plants in Union that she uses to make tonics, elixirs and other products.
Kathi Langelier has big plans for her Herbal Revolution Farm & Apothecary brand of tinctures, tonics and other products after launching in September at 400 Sprouts Farmers Markets stores across the country. Sprouts Farmers Markets Inc. (Nasdaq: SFM) is a supermarket chain headquartered in Phoenix.
The Union-based entrepreneur employs nine people at her business, which makes a range of products from herbs and plants grown on Langelier's farm.
Langelier said her company aim to enlarge its national footprint by partnering with other retailers, all of which have certain times each year when they review product buying plans.
Langelier said she is currently "undergoing reviews" with several retailers, including two large ones she said she can't discuss yet.
In March, Herbal Revolution will participate in the Natural Products Expo West, touted as the biggest trade show for natural, organic and healthy products. The event will take place in Anaheim, Calif., from March 12-16.
2024 goals
Langelier, who has published a recipe book and pamphlets on individual herbs, launched her farm and apothecary business in 2010 after teaching outdoor education.
Her goals for 2024: "Continue expanding nationally with our Fire Cider and Apple Cider Vinegar Herbs Tonic line. We also have plans to offer a monthly herbal workshop series on the farm."
Last week, Herbal Revolution was awarded a $250,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to expand production, marketing and sales of herbal tinctures, tonics, teas, scrubs and elixirs.
The grant will help boost wholesale and retail sales and allow the business to hire up to four additional staff, the USDA said in its announcement. Four other Maine farms were also awarded grants.
Nancy Strojny, SCORE Maine's assistant district director, is a mentor who works with Langelier.
The USDA award “provides much-needed capital for equipment,” Strojny said. “The funding continues to fuel the growth and expansion of Herbal Revolution into national natural food retailers."
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