North London community food hub and online grocer Nourished Communities has received a six-figure investment as it continues to roll out the business across the capital.

The online market has secured a £200k investment from British businessman Daniel Hulme, CEO and founder of UK-based AI firm Satalia.

The funding will enable the business to continue its growth, which has seen the launch of two new sites in recent months: a shop format in Blackhorse Lane, and a café and shop inside Mills Fabrica in King’s Cross, doubling as a workspace dedicated to sustainable innovators.

Nourished Communities’ latest funding will go towards new hires, launching its own product ranges and new café concept in King’s Cross. The business also has plans to launch new concepts in 2023 to “challenge the conventional food system”.

“We’re truly humbled to have the backing of Daniel – not only is he a customer, he’s an incredible mentor, and his support will allow us to grow sustainably,” said Rollo Millership, founder of Nourished Communities.

“We have big ambitions and in every location we open in, we are fully committed to being heavily integrated with, and supportive of, the local community. In the last two months we’ve opened two new sites and we’re planning to keep busy, so watch this space.”

Hulme, who discovered the business as a customer, added: “Having met Rollo on numerous occasions when in the shop, I wanted to help them grow the business. Nourished Communities’ positive approach to business and dedication to supporting local growers, producers and manufacturers is something I wanted to be part of. I’m thrilled to be on the journey.”

Championing artisan local food producers and seasonal produce grown in Kent and across the UK, the company turned over just under half a million last year and says it currently has over 5,000 customers.

Last year the business was awarded a grant for circular economy initiatives from ReLondon and Islington Council, and has since launched local e-bike deliveries, installed refill dispensers, and is growing mushrooms from coffee granules in its Blackstock Road site’s basement.

Additionally, the company has partnered with local beekeeper and founder of the Cinnamon Village café, Soner Golbas, to produce honey from beehives and run beekeeping workshops.

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