Vermont Nut Free Chocolates Receives Strategic Investment
from Fieldstone Capital Partners
Grand Isle, VT – October 24, 2012 – (Virtual Press Office) – Vermont Nut Free Chocolates, a leading provider of nut-free gourmet chocolates, specialty confectionaries, granola bars, and energy bars, today announced that Fieldstone Capital Partners, a Vermont-based private investment firm, has made a strategic investment in the company to support Vermont Nut Free's next phase of growth and continued product innovation.
Vermont Nut Free Chocolates is a gourmet chocolate company dedicated to providing delicious products that are completely safe for those living with peanut or tree nut allergies. All products are handmade in the company's 100 percent nut-free facility, safe from the cross-contamination concerns associated with similar mass-produced items. Recognizing a void in the granola and energy bar markets, Vermont Nut Free Chocolates expanded its product line and introduced TANABAR, a nut-free, chewy granola bar perfect for families and athletes looking for a convenient great tasting snack alternative, and MetaBall, a ball-shaped sports energy product designed for active individuals and competitors on-the-go.
"Vermont Nut Free's products bring much needed peace of mind to the many families with children dealing with nut allergies," said Brian Degen, Managing Partner at Fieldstone Capital. "Their nut-free products enable family members to enjoy gourmet-quality chocolate in a wide variety of offerings as well as other healthy snack foods. Their products are also very well suited for distribution through schools, hospitals, university sports programs, and any public place where there is risk of allergic reaction. Vermont Nut Free addresses a critical need and we very much look forward to partnering with the company to bring the benefits of their premium quality products to a wider audience."
"Vermont Nut Free Chocolates has established a trusted reputation as an innovative, customer-driven company striving to please the discerning tastes of our nut-free audience," said Mark Elvidge, CEO and Co-Founder. "After nearly fifteen years of consistent growth, we were seeking an investment partner that could provide us with the capital and business expertise to help us expand our business. We are excited about our future prospects and look forward to continuing to build the value of our brand and its benefits to our customers with the knowledge and support of Fieldstone Capital Partners."
About Vermont Nut Free Chocolate Company, Inc.
Established in 1998, Vermont Nut Free Chocolates specializes in handmade gourmet treats that are safe for individuals with peanut and tree nut allergies. Its product line includes chocolate truffles, fudge, caramels, chocolate bars, seasonal treats, novelty items, granola bars, and sports energy products. All products are handcrafted in small batches with only the finest nut free ingredients available. To learn more or order products, please visit www.VermontNutFree.com.
About Fieldstone Capital Partners, LLC
Fieldstone Capital Partners is a small private investment firm based in Vermont that provides long-term capital, strategic guidance, and operational support to entrepreneurial companies well positioned for profitable growth. The firm focuses on growth oriented companies in the branded consumer products and traditional industrial/manufacturing industries. Fieldstone Capital is particularly adept at partnering with founders, owners, and management teams and brings considerable strategic and operational experience to its portfolio companies. The firm offers their capital and professional expertise in helping owners take their companies to the next level while building long lasting business value. For more information, please visit www.FieldstoneCap.com.