Shef, a platform that connects local cooks with consumers for authentic, homemade dishes, has expanded its reach nationwide. The company offers tools like menu planning, pricing, photography, and bio creation to its ‘shefs.’ Many new cooks have had limited food sales experience, prompting Shef to provide extensive food safety training during the onboarding process.
Company Overview
Shef was profiled by TechCrunch in 2021 when it raised $20 million in a Series A. Today, based in San Francisco, the company operates in 11 states plus Washington, D.C., reaching 70 million people. Co-founder and CEO Joey Grassia started the company with Alvin Salehi in 2019.
National Expansion
Shef’s national growth is driven by laws passed in all 50 states in 2022 that enable the sale of certain homemade foods. This has allowed the platform to expand its reach beyond local markets.
Series B Funding
In addition to its Series A, Shef recently announced a $10 million Series B funding round led by Sequoia Capital. The round included participation from Index Ventures and Insight Partners, among others.
Product Development
Shef is committed to improving the cooking experience for both cooks and consumers. The platform offers tools such as menu planning software, bio templates, and photography guidelines to help cooks create professional-looking dishes efficiently.
Grassia’s Comments on Funding
Grassa has emphasized the importance of timing in securing funding, stating that Shef’s Series B round was perfectly timed given the recent legal developments in food sales.
Additional Investors
The Series B round also featured investments from notable figures such as Andrew Yang and Kevin O’Leary. Their support underscores the platform’s potential for growth and innovation.
Grassia on Expansion
Grassa has highlighted the benefits of Shef’s national expansion, noting that it has opened up new opportunities for local cooks and increased the company’s market reach significantly.
Related Links
For more information about Shef and its impact on the food industry, please visit Shef’s official website.
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