Willsey & Company

Willsey & Company is a privately held investment and operating firm with an active portfolio spanning the food, beverage, agriculture, fitness, pet, and medical products industries. The company takes both majority and minority equity positions in a diverse range of businesses, functioning as a strategic capital partner and active portfolio manager rather than a passive financial investor. Its investment approach is multifaceted: it provides initial capital to new ventures under the Venice Brands portfolio umbrella in exchange for founder equity, makes targeted investments in distinctive private and public companies, and pursues majority acquisitions of cash-flow-positive businesses where its operational expertise can create tangible value. The firm's portfolio includes well-known and emerging consumer brands such as Joolies, Bread Head, Archer Jerky, KinderFarms, Ellenos, Yellowbird, Desert Valley Date, Once Upon a Farm, CAVA, Chewy, Grand Fitness Partners, Kidfresh, and Enroot, among others. This breadth of holdings reflects a deliberate strategy to participate across multiple high-growth consumer segments, from better-for-you snacks and fresh food to specialty dairy, hot sauces, date-based products, and children's nutrition. The company differentiates itself through active management of its portfolio companies, working closely with founders and management teams to build scalable, cash-flow-generating businesses with strong customer loyalty. Its long-term orientation allows it to either pursue strategic exits when conditions are favorable or hold investments indefinitely, prioritizing business strength over a fixed liquidity timeline. With roots in the consumer packaged goods and food and beverage sectors, Willsey & Company occupies a unique position as both investor and operator, leveraging cross-portfolio insights and shared resources to accelerate growth across its brand network. The firm's focus on businesses with distinctive positioning and loyal consumer bases makes it a notable player in the better-for-you and specialty food investment landscape.