Javvy, the maker of protein-enriched coffee powders and concentrates, is pursuing a potential sale that sources say could value the business at roughly $1 billion. People familiar with the discussions said the company has engaged investment bank Houlihan Lokey to run a sale process that remains at an early stage, and those sources requested anonymity to discuss a private matter.
The South Carolina-headquartered company, which offers caffeinated mix-with-water powders and coffee concentrates in flavors such as Dubai chocolate, banana bread and tiramisu, reported nearly $300 million in annual revenue, according to the people. Javvy had not provided comments to requests for comment, and Houlihan Lokey declined to comment.
Javvy’s product formulation is pitched as both functional and convenient. Each serving of its powder delivers 10 grams of protein and includes prebiotics for gut support as well as medium-chain triglycerides that the company says support brain health. The brand’s portfolio extends beyond powdered mixes to include protein refreshers, coffee syrups and creamers.
The company was founded in 2020 by entrepreneurs Justin Kemperman and Brandon Monaghan. Javvy expanded its retail footprint recently, launching in Walmart stores last month and selling products at Target, Sprouts Farmers Market and other supermarket and pharmacy chains.
Venture capital firms including Amberstone Ventures, Platinum Mile Ventures and Selva Ventures have backed the business. Company communications last month noted that Javvy had reached about one in every 44 U.S. households, and that one Javvy Protein Coffee product is sold every seven to eight seconds, the people said. On Javvy’s website, a single 20-serving bag is listed at $34.95.
The potential sale comes as consumer packaged goods companies seek to capture growing demand for protein-rich and other functional offerings. Major food and beverage firms have broadened their protein selections; for example, Starbucks added protein lattes and protein cold foams to its menu last year and this year introduced ready-to-drink protein coffee beverages online and into grocery and convenience channels.
Market participants described the transaction process as preliminary. The early-stage nature of the engagement and the lack of public comment from the company and its adviser underscore uncertainties about timing, deal structure and potential bidders.
Javvy’s combination of flavored caffeinated products, expanded retail presence and venture backing have positioned it as one of the growing specialty brands operating in the protein and functional beverage segment. How the sale process unfolds and whether it culminates in a transaction at the reported valuation remain open questions, contingent on a number of factors discussed privately by potential bidders and advisers.