Last updated on September 13th, 2022 at 02:18 pm
Stage, a specialized growth venture fund, has acquired Haystack Mountain Creamery, a highly decorated cheese maker out of Longmont, Colorado. Stage invests in technology-enabled and consumer products businesses in need of fresh capital and operating expertise.
“The opportunity to join stage is outstanding,” said Chuck Hellmer, the president of Haystack Mountain Creamery. “With our diverse and unique offerings of goat and cow’s milk cheeses, Stage will bring a new element in growing our brand and presence within local and regional markets.”
Haystack Mountain Creamery has a rich history as an artisanal cheese maker in Colorado, pioneering a path for the local cheese industry. With beginnings in the farmers markets around Boulder, Colorado in 1989, the company received its first award in 1992. Since then, the company has received 80 total awards and 20 first-place awards for its cheeses, including the Best American Cheese Award in 2017 and 2018 from the Guild of Fine Foods.
“We could not be more delighted to bring Haystack into our portfolio. Supply chain issues during COVID-19 took a toll across the country, but Haystack is well-equipped for a new season of growth and expansion,” said Krista Morgan, general partner at Stage.
“There is so much excitement surrounding the team at Haystack. Jackie Chang is an outstanding talent that is well-known throughout the industry for her passion and unwavering commitment to excellence,” said board member Mark Retzloff, co-founder of Horizon Dairy, Aurora Organic Dairy and Alfalfas Markets.
Haystack Mountain Creamery operates its own facility in Longmont, Colorado.
“We are here to preserve and elevate a brand that has a storied history and loyal following. With the highest level of quality standards, Haystack will focus on continuing to serve the local markets while expanding our reach nationally so that more consumers can experience this exceptional product,” said Lauren Clough, operating partner at Stage.
