Parmela Creamery, Los Angeles, raised over $1 million in a series seed financing round led by 25Madison, New York, and other investors, including Gather Ventures, Atlanta, and Luke Abbott. The investment will enable Parmela to become what is said to be the primary plant-based dairy processor in the world. Parmela will also utilize the funds to fuel growth, further strengthen brand awareness and support ongoing innovation.

Parmela uses traditional culturing and aging as part of its cheesemaking process to develop vegan-friendly, plant-based products, available in Publix Super Markets, Whole Foods Markets, Wegman’s and other retailers.

“25Madison and Gather Ventures are a perfect match for Parmela,” says Ry Salomone, co-founder of Parmela. “Their deep knowledge in the food space, serious appreciation for innovative plant-based foods and extensive industry network greatly impressed me. Our vision at Parmela is to honor the heritage of traditional cheesemaking while supporting a healthier, sustainable future. These visionary partners offer the operating experience and deep connections to help deliver on this vision at scale.”

“The plant-based foods industry is seeing tremendous growth,” says Steven Price, co-founder and CEO of 25Madison. “Parmela will be a national leader in the plant-based cheese category by continuing to focus on its craft process, superior ingredients and sustainability. We are thrilled to partner with Ry, co-founder Laurice and the Parmela team to accelerate their next phase of growth.”