 Denver, CO, April 18, 2007- LÄRABAR®, makers of the original fruit and nut food bars, proudly announces its 4th anniversary in business. This historic milestone commemorates the company’s product innovation, international growth and media recognition. LÄRABAR® has also received widespread industry praise and popularity among a diverse group of consumers including celebrities, athletes and nutrition experts.
“These last four years mark the fulfillment of a personal vision that began with a hike in the Colorado Mountains: to provide people with healthy foods that are delicious, all natural and convenient. Starting with my Cuisinart, I researched, tested and hand rolled each of the 500 bars that would eventually form the basis of this brand,” said Lara Merriken, CEO and Founder of LÄRABAR®. “We now count major retailers like Whole Foods, Wild Oats, Kroger, Inc., Costco, and Trader Joe’s as customers. Our sales reflect this demand, reaching nearly $20 million in 2006.”
Product Innovation In 2003, LÄRABAR® debuted with five initial flavors – Apple Pie, Cherry Pie, Cashew Cookie, Banana Cookie and Chocolate Coconut Chew. These flavors inaugurated the LÄRABAR® line and introduced the company’s philosophy about nutritious snacks and simplicity of ingredients. In 2005, Ginger Snap, Cocoa Mole and Pecan Pie were introduced, followed by Lemon Bar and Cinnamon Roll in 2006, and Key Lime Pie and Pistachio in spring 2007. Additionally, in winter 2006, LÄRABAR® released its first brand extension: JŎCALAT™, an organic, fair trade certified chocolate food bar line. 
International Growth In summer 2004, via Canada, LÄRABAR® entered the international arena. Quickly following Canada were the United Kingdom, Iceland, Singapore, Mexico and Israel and more recently, LÄRABAR® entered New Zealand, Japan, Norway, Sweden and Vietnam. Media Recognition and Industry Praise “Our growth is a phenomenon of both hard work and critical support, with invaluable exposure from publications like People, O Magazine, Real Simple and Fortune to name a few,” stated Merriken. LÄRABAR® also received praise from within the food industry, such as the selection of Lemon Bar as a 2006 finalist by the prestigious National Association of Specialty Food Trade awards. Merriken referred to the award as “a real honor.” About LÄRABAR® Founded in 2003 by Lara Merriken, LÄRABAR® now produces twelve LÄRABAR® brand flavors and four JŎCALAT™ brand flavors. The company is committed to producing simple, whole food products with quality nutrition. LÄRABAR® products are available throughout the United States and internationally at a variety of natural, conventional and specialty grocers, athletic and outdoor stores. For more information, visit www.larabar.com or call 877- LÄRABAR (527-2227). |
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