CASE STUDY: CONSUMER BUSINESS
At a glance
12
£22m
20+
MEET THE CLIENT
Funding the cream of the crop
Founded in 2014, The Coconut Collaborative is led by renowned entrepreneur James Averdieck, the founder of the premium dessert manufacturer Gü. The London-headquartered company specialises in producing and selling award-winning dairy-free, coconut-based yoghurts and desserts. With a strong focus on innovation, health, and environmental consciousness, The Coconut Collaborative has gained acclaim in the industry and established successful partnerships with major UK supermarkets.
Heightened awareness of health and sustainability has transformed consumer behaviour and preferences, leading individuals to make more conscious food choices. Recognising a shift in consumer preferences to healthier plant-based products, The Coconut Collaborative has positioned itself as a leading brand in its chosen category, offering plant-based products that are not only healthier but also delicious.
THE CHALLENGE
“Since we’re in the food business, we have to deliver”
The Coconut Collaborative has experienced significant growth since its inception. As James Averdieck explained: “We operate as a branded business primarily serving the UK market and have now expanded our presence in international markets including France, Germany, and Belgium. Last year, our business generated a turnover of approximately £22 million. With a team of just over 20 employees, we sell, distribute, and market all our coconut-based products.”
The Coconut Collaborative has received support from a group of investors and secured a receivables finance facility from a high-street bank. However, their previous banking experience left room for improvement, as James explains: “It always seemed that everything at the bank was just a bit siloed, and their response to our needs was slow, which prompted us to seek a change.
As the business approached its next funding round, James Averdieck painted a picture of the ideal funding partner, stating, “As a growing business, we are constantly seeking funding; it’s part of my job description. We have a wide range of requirements, so ideally, we wanted a bank or funder that could provide greater flexibility and offer us a range of solutions to meet our needs.”
THE SOLUTION
Delivering a technology-centred working capital solution.
Given the company’s rapid growth and emphasis on product development, The Coconut Collaborative recognised the need for a technology-enabled solution to streamline operations and save valuable time and resources at their London headquarters. Investec responded by structuring and delivering a flexible and comprehensive trading account solution that comprised a revolving working capital facility. This enables management to take advantage of end-of-period discounts and maintain closer control over cash flow during critical pinch points.
James Averdieck continued: “There are some things in your business which just need to work well. I see working capital as the essential plumbing of a business, playing a crucial role in ensuring its smooth operation. Once it’s properly managed, you can focus on addressing the bigger issues, knowing that the financial infrastructure is in place. Our financial director has very positive things to say about how smoothly Investec’s Intelligent Cashflow system is working.”
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