Forager, the Portland-based startup that built an online marketplace to connect local farms with grocery stores and other retail outlets, on June 21 announced its acquisition by Local Line, a Canadian company with its own sales platform for local farms.
The acquisition marks a significant milestone for both companies as they aim to expand their reach and transform the food industry. Details of the transaction were not disclosed.
Forager, founded in 2014 by David Stone, has played a role in revitalizing Maine’s local food system, facilitating connections between 150 farmers, cheese makers, and other producers with more than a dozen grocers in the region. Since launch, $20 million worth of food has been procured via its online and mobile marketplace platform, according to the company’s news release.
Maine Startups Insider last reported on Forager in May 2021 when it raised a small round. Stone at the time told MSI the company was not yet profitable.
The decision to join forces with Local Line comes as Forager recognizes the need for more resources to expand its nationwide reach. By becoming part of the Local Line family, Forager’s operations will remain in Maine, but it gains access to Local Line’s broader customer base and its suite of innovative tools for farmers, according to its news release.
“Maine should be a national leader in food systems,” Stone said in the release. “Food is the largest economic segment in the state, and this partnership will continue to accelerate this amazing culture and economy of food innovation. Forager, and now Local Line, are connecting the dots.”
Local Line views this acquisition as a strategic move to enhance its offerings to farmers. Its CEO, Cole Jones, said in a statement that Forager’s grocer-facing platform complements the company’s existing solutions.
“We are delighted to welcome Forager into the Local Line family,” said Jones. “Together, we can empower more farmers and revolutionize the way local food systems operate.”
