一杯酸奶，估值1422亿

Core Insights - Chobani, an American yogurt brand, recently completed a $650 million funding round, raising its post-money valuation to $20 billion, making its founder Hamdi Ulukaya the richest person in Turkey with a net worth of approximately $13.5 billion [1][3]. Company History and Growth - Chobani was founded 20 years ago when Hamdi Ulukaya purchased an 84-year-old yogurt factory for $700,000, despite skepticism from advisors [3][4]. - The brand aimed to introduce Greek yogurt to the U.S. market, which was dominated by sweet, low-fat yogurts, capturing a mere 1% of the market at the time [4][6]. - Within five years, Chobani's revenue exceeded $1 billion, establishing it as the leader in the Greek yogurt segment [4]. Business Strategy - Ulukaya focused on setting competitive pricing while ensuring profitability and opted for distribution through national supermarket chains, even offering yogurt as a payment for shelf space [6][7]. - Chobani's projected net sales for the current year are expected to reach $3.8 billion, reflecting a 28% increase from the previous year [6]. Financing and Ownership - Historically, Chobani has had limited financing rounds, with significant investments occurring only twice prior to the recent funding [7][8]. - The company faced challenges, including a food safety scandal in 2013, which led to a $450 million investment to build a large production facility [7]. - After regaining control from previous investors, Ulukaya's team increased their ownership stake to 90% [8]. Recent Developments - Chobani has undergone a transformation with two major acquisitions: a $900 million purchase of La Colombe, a premium coffee brand, and the acquisition of Daily Harvest, a plant-based frozen meal brand [10][11]. - These acquisitions are aimed at diversifying Chobani's product offerings and enhancing its valuation potential [11]. Market Potential in China - Chobani's success raises questions about the potential for similar models in the Chinese market, where brands like Wuzhou and Lechun are emerging in the Greek yogurt segment [12][13]. - Wuzhou, founded in 2020, focuses on low-temperature Greek yogurt and has established a significant production capacity [13][14]. - The competitive landscape in China's Greek yogurt market is still developing, indicating potential opportunities for growth and investment [14].