Plant-based protein demand drives Beyond Meat’s global expansion

Claiming a category first, Beyond Meat will work with leading distribution and foodservice partners to introduce its products, such as it Beyond Burger, across the world.

The markets targeted in the expansion include mainland European countries such as Germany, as well as Canada, Australia, Mexico, Chile, Israel, the UAE, South Korea, Taiwan and South Africa.

Since launching in Los Angeles, California in 2016, the firm has sold more than 13 million of its protein-packed patties, which can be found in nearly 15,000 restaurants and grocery stores across the US.

Beyond Meat said it expected the expansion to be completed by the summer.

“The company has found extensive success in the US market, doubling sales in 2017 and increasing distribution of its portfolio to more than 27,000 grocery stores and restaurants​,” said Beyond Meat CEO Ethan Brown.

“Reflecting rapid demand growth in the US and sustained interest from international markets, we’ve taken steps to significantly increase our production capacity. These additions make it possible for us to support international launches, building upon the successful 2017 introduction of the Beyond Burger in Hong Kong​.”

Its products, including the Beyond Burger, are made entirely of plants, without genetically modified organisms, soy or gluten, and are crafted using simple plant-based ingredients. The firm claims that its Beyond Burger has more protein than a beef burger, with less saturated and total fat.

Late last year Beyond Meat revealed its intention to ramp up production of its plant-based burgers​ and, earlier this year, the company announced the construction of its new research and innovation facility in Los Angeles, which is a sevenfold increase in its existing research and development footprint.

The new facility is projected to cut production scale-up timelines in half, enabling the company to bring a new product to market every year.