Each year, business publication Forbes releases their 30 Under 30 lists that recognize successful young entrepreneurs, leaders, and creative minds who are making waves across several industries. With an eye for trends and a knack for innovation, these 20-somethings are bringing fresh ideas to the table in the food and beverage industry.
Check out some highlights below and view the full list here.
1. Maya French, 28 | Co-founder, Koia
When Maya French found out that she was lactose intolerant in 2013, she went on the hunt for a delicious plant-based protein shake — and when she couldn’t find what she was looking for, she took matters into her own hands. Working with her partner Dustin Baker, French formulated the nut-based, post-workout shake Koia. The name pays homage to the Costa Rican town Nicoya, known for its residents’ longevity, and the shake is now sold in 4,000 stores across America, including major chains like Walmart, Publix, and Stop & Shop.
2. Amy Rothstein, 29; Peter Rothstein, 26 | Co-founders, Dona Chai
Siblings Amy and Peter Rothstein put their heads together to fill the demand for high quality chai concentrate in New York City’s bustling coffee shop scene. The result was Dona Chai Tea Concentrate, a recipe based on traditional chai which is now available in the two distinct flavors: Masala Chai and Turmeric Concentrate. Now, Dona Spice products are sold throughout the U.S., Canada, and Japan. The brand also offers new Dona Spice sodas in flavors like Pink Peppercorn Lemon and Juniper Lime.
3. Blake Tomnitz, 29 | Co-founder, Five Boroughs Brewing Co.
After Blake Tomnitz left his high-powered finance career, he immersed himself in the world of craft beer, spending two years experimenting with new formulas and referring to himself as a “nomadic homebrewer.” Eventually, Tomnitz and his cofounder perfected their first Five Boroughs’ recipes, and now, the brewery owns a production facility and taproom in Brooklyn. Five Boroughs beer is also distributed wholesale throughout New York City.
4. Carly Stein, 27 | Beekeeper’s Naturals
While on vacation in Italy, Carly Stein came across bee propolis, a natural cold and flu remedy made from plant and tree resins that bees use to protect their hives. She decided to bring this product to the U.S., and now, and the Beekeeper’s Naturals Propolis Spray is one of the best selling cold and flu products on Amazon. Beekeeper’s Naturals has expanded to sell other supplements like raw honey, bee pollen, and nootropics. The brand sees more than 400,000 customers each month.
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