Earlier this month, Manna Tree convened for our Annual General Meeting in the vibrant city of New York, New York. Surrounded by our investors, portfolio company CEOs and guest speakers, we kicked off the event by diving into a comprehensive exploration of the state of the consumer. Nick McCoy, Managing Director & Co-Founder of Whipstitch Capital, gave an insightful presentation that provided data around the behaviors and purchasing patterns of the consumers we strive to empower.
In an era where capital is not as readily available, we believe the necessity for businesses to foster genuine profitability and sustainable growth has never been more apparent.
Here are our takeaways from the recent event:
1. Embrace Real Business Models: Amidst tightening capital flows, the era calls for businesses to pivot towards constructing robust and authentic business models. Profitable growth isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity for longevity.
2. Adapting to Market Pressures: Large-cap enterprises are feeling the squeeze of volume declines, compelling them to seek out new avenues for growth. This quest extends beyond conventional methods, pushing them to explore organic and inorganic expansion strategies.
3. Rising Demand for Better-For-You Products: Consumer preferences are undergoing a profound shift towards health-conscious choices. The “better-for-you” sector, exemplified by its focus on products promoting wellness, is witnessing a surge in demand. We believe, this trend bodes well for businesses aligned with this mission, reinforcing the market thesis.
4. Label Consciousness: Consumers are scrutinizing product labels like never before, with a keen focus on ingredients that contribute to their overall well-being. Protein and gut health have emerged as key areas of interest, reflecting a growing awareness of nutritional values among consumers.
In essence, navigating today’s market requires a strategic alignment with evolving consumer preferences, a commitment to genuine growth, and a readiness to innovate. Let’s leverage these insights to propel our businesses forward in the ever-changing landscape.
Thank you to Polsinelli for sponsoring Manna Tree’s AGM 2024.
Content by Ryan Klas
Compiled by Allison Yazel
Photos by Philip VN Photography
