The Modern Milkman
Overview
The Modern Milkman is an innovative grocery delivery company focusing on plastic-free and sustainable solutions in the UK. Founded in 2018 by Simon Mellin and three of his friends, the company offers a subscription-based service delivering groceries sourced from local farmers. It raised approximately $68.9 million from investors including Insight Partners, ETF Partners, and Praetura Ventures. Headquartered in Manchester, the company has gained recognition for its mission to reduce plastic waste and boost sustainability.
Recent Developments
- April 2025: The Modern Milkman made its second acquisition in the United States by acquiring Pine Tree Dairy’s home delivery network to strengthen its presence in the Midwest and expand operations in Ohio and beyond.
- March 2024: The company acquired its US namesake, expanding its operations on the USA’s East Coast alongside the launch of a refillables range, including breakfast staples such as cornflakes and sugar.
- March 2024: It achieved significant milestones in sustainability by preventing 100 million plastic bottles from entering landfills.
- August 2024: CEO Simon Mellin relocated to the US to steer the company's expansion into the American market.
- July 2024: The company's financial health improved significantly, cutting losses by more than half, reducing its operating loss to £10.5 million, and focusing more on efficiency and profitability.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2018 |
| Headquarters | Manchester, United Kingdom |
| Founders | Simon Mellin and three friends |
| Revenue | £46.2 million (2023) |
| Profits | Reduced losses; aim for break-even in 2024 |
| Key Investors | Insight Partners, ETF Partners, Praetura Ventures |
| Industry | Grocery Delivery, Sustainability |
| Number of Employees | Not specified in sources |
| Major Products/Services | Plastic-free grocery delivery |
Early History
The Modern Milkman was founded in 2018 in Colne, Lancashire, inspired by an episode of David Attenborough's "Blue Planet," which highlighted the detrimental impact of single-use plastics. The founders began with a simple milk delivery service, a modern take on traditional milk rounds, using reusable glass bottles and containers to eliminate packaging waste. Their mission attracted funding and attention due to the growing consumer demand for sustainable and eco-friendly services. In just a few years, they managed to establish a brand known for its commitment to sustainability and community engagement through local sourcing.
Company Profile and Achievements
The Modern Milkman has a business model built on reducing plastic waste and sourcing products sustainably. It offers delivery services for various groceries, including milk, juices, eggs, bread, and other essentials, using unique, returnable packaging. Some notable achievements include:
- Preventing Waste: By using glass bottles, they've prevented millions of plastic bottles from polluting the environment.
- B Corp Certification: Achieved B Corp status in 2023, validating their commitment to meeting high social and environmental performance standards.
- Strategic Expansion: The acquisition of the US Modern Milkman and Pine Tree Dairy reinforced its international presence and aligned with its sustainability goals.
- Investment and Growth: Secured substantial funding earmarked for technological innovation and international expansion.
Current Operations and Market Position
Currently, The Modern Milkman operates both in the UK and the US, focusing on maintaining its eco-friendly narrative. It leverages technology to streamline operations, reduce delivery costs, and improve customer engagement with its user-friendly app. The company's competitive advantage lies in its sustainable logistics and packaging solutions, making it a preferred choice for environmentally conscious consumers. Their strategy includes consistent geographic expansion, particularly in the US, indicating a robust approach to capturing market share in the eco-friendly grocery delivery sector.
Conclusion
The Modern Milkman stands out as a leader in sustainable grocery delivery, continuously evolving to meet consumer demand for eco-friendly options. With its strategic growth and sustained focus on reducing environmental impact, the company is poised for continued success and influence in the grocery delivery industry. Looking ahead, its trajectory points towards expanding its operational footprint across new markets, particularly in the USA, where its mission and model are set to replicate its UK achievements.