Bambeco

About Bambeco

Bambeco operated as an e-commerce brand specializing in sustainable home goods. The company was founded in 2008 by Susan Aplin and Carolyn Wapnick, with a mission to make eco-friendly products more accessible. The business was established on Earth Day, underscoring its commitment to environmental responsibility from its inception.

The company's business model was centered around a direct-to-consumer, internet-first approach, offering a wide array of home furnishings and decor. Bambeco's product line was distinctive for its strict adherence to sustainability; items were crafted from materials that were reclaimed, recycled, repurposed, renewable, natural, or organic. The product range included furniture, decor, kitchenware, and lifestyle accessories, targeting environmentally conscious consumers. In addition to its primary online channel, Bambeco formed partnerships with major retailers like Costco, Whole Foods, and Total Wine to broaden its market reach.

A core component of Bambeco's corporate philosophy was its commitment to social and environmental causes. The company implemented a carbon-free shipping policy for all its orders and donated one percent of every sale to environmental organizations. Furthermore, through its "Every Purchase Plants a Tree" initiative in partnership with American Forests, Bambeco contributed to reforestation efforts.

Over its operational history, Bambeco secured significant venture capital funding, raising approximately $39.9 million across several rounds to fuel its growth. Key investors included ABS Capital Partners, New Atlantic Ventures, and the Maryland Venture Fund. Despite achieving a record sales year and expanding internationally, the company faced challenges in securing the necessary capital to sustain its growth trajectory. In late 2017, the board decided to sell the business, leading to the acquisition of Bambeco's assets by Evergreen Enterprises, a Richmond, Virginia-based company specializing in the design and distribution of home and garden goods. Following the acquisition, Bambeco transitioned into a brand under the Evergreen Enterprises umbrella.