Teen-owned drinkware business, Bellaforte, has been acquired by eCommerce aggregator, Una Brands, for NZD $1 million.

Sam Richards, a 15-year-old NZ teenager based in the Gold Coast, founded Bellaforte two years ago, selling reusable, affordable and recyclable unbreakable drinkware for celebratory events.

“If we all make an effort to use reusable & recyclable products, over time, we can make the world a better place. Life is too short to drink out of crappy cups,” explained Sam Richards.

In 2020, Bellaforte turned over record profits. Covid-19 skyrocketed Belleforte, sold via Amazon Marketplace, to new heights. To keep up with demand, Richards looked to other growth models.

Under the guidance of his parents Phil and Michelle Richards, entrepreneurs from Whangarei and Auckland, they eyed an exit strategy that would allow him to capitalise on this peak success.

Una Brands emerged as a solution that would turbocharge Bellaforte with the capital and channels required to enter the next wave of growth.  With Una Brand’s experience in transforming start-ups into household names, the opportunity provided a fast and fair way to sell the business at its highest point.

“He was a tough negotiator. I have dealt with hundreds of business owners but Sam drove a hard bargain. He was driven and knew what he wanted. He didn't give up until we met his number,” said Yenti Kushor, Head of Acquisitions at Una Brands.

The acquisition is a testament of the importance of business exit plans. With two more years left of high school, the strategic move allows Sam Richards to prioritise schooling whilst reaping significant monetary benefits and securing the future of Bellaforte. With his earnings, he’ll purchase a new set of headphones, a Samsung watch and a Tesla car.

Sam Richards hopes his story will inspire the next generation of budding entrepreneurs, “Do the simple things well. Do your research and stick to it. 90% of people are too scared to take the first step and launch. Don’t let other people who don’t believe in you drag you down”.

Una Brands mission is to shape the future of eCommerce by acquiring great brands and growing them into global, well-loved and enduring household names. It is founded by eCommerce experts providing a fast and fair way for e-commerce business owners to sell their companies.

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