UNITED STATES - Plant-based food quickly caught fire in the U.S., leading the buy- and supply-sides alike to find innovative ways to enter the sector. Everyone from Costco to Trader Joe’s has continuously worked to make their product portfolio plant-based friendly in recent months. A new plant-based player, however, recently entered the ring, giving these traditional format grocers a run for their money.

VEDGEco, a Hawaii-based vegan wholesaler, recently announced its plans to expand distribution across the mainland.

“Our mission at VEDGEco is to make plant-based products more affordable and accessible for everyone across the United States, not just for restaurants and caterers, but for individuals and families to enjoy at home too,” Co-Founder and CEO Trevor Hitch said. “Buying plant-based foods in bulk will save our customers a great deal of money. The added convenience of having these products shipped directly to their doors within one to two business days will make it easier than ever for every American to try a plant-based diet or add plant-based alternatives to their menu.”

Following a year of resounding success in Hawaii, VEDGEco has decided to launch a monumental expansion to serve the lower 48 states, according to VegNews. Beyond Meat, Gardein, and Impossible Foods are just a few of the market-amassing brands which VEDGEco distributes.

Operating in a wholesale format similar to that of Costco, the retailer distributes products in bulk to both foodservice customers and directly to consumers. The news source went on to report that VEDGEco plans to open facilities on the East and West Coasts, facilitating a massive overtaking via its e-commerce platform.

Does this new grocery contender mean trouble for other retailers chasing plant-based trends? Stick around with ANUK to find out.

VEDGEco