From Zero Retail Presence to Multi-Channel Distribution
Provided full-service brokerage support, taking KACE Tea from zero retail infrastructure to active multi-channel distribution. Mana handled every aspect of the retail go-to-market — from pitch deck development and buyer meetings to distributor setup and account management — while the founding team focused on brand building.
0 Doors
Starting Point
90 Days
First Placement
Multi-Channel
Distribution
Premium RTD Tea
Category
The Challenge
An early-stage premium ready-to-drink tea brand with no retail infrastructure, no dedicated sales team, and no existing buyer relationships needed to build retail distribution from scratch. KACE Tea’s founding team had a compelling product and brand story but needed a partner who could handle every aspect of their retail go-to-market — from initial retailer prospecting through ongoing account management.
Our Approach
Provided end-to-end representation targeting natural and specialty retailers aligned with KACE Tea’s premium positioning and AAPI-inspired brand story. Mana developed a pitch deck positioned around the growing consumer demand for authentic, culturally-rooted beverages, then coordinated buyer meetings across target retailers. Handled distributor setup through UNFI and KeHE, managed all logistics, and provided ongoing account management — allowing the founders to focus entirely on product innovation and brand development.
The Results
Multi-channel distribution established within 90 days of engagement. KACE Tea secured placements at Sprouts, Erewhon, and natural specialty retailers with distribution through UNFI and KeHE. Full-service brokerage enabled rapid market entry while maintaining brand integrity and founder focus. The brand is now actively scaling with a clear growth trajectory and the retail infrastructure to support continued expansion.
Working with Mana Foods has been an incredible experience. The breadth and depth of industry knowledge they provide allows my team to focus on our brand and be confident we are heading in the right direction. We are extremely grateful to work with such a dedicated team.
Ashley Yao
Co-founder & CEO, KACE Tea
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