Once Upon A Coconut

About Once Upon A Coconut

Once Upon A Coconut is a premium coconut water brand founded in 2020 by CEO John Chiorando and Co-founder Marc Sampogna. The company produces beverages from young green coconuts sourced from Vietnam, selected for their sweeter taste. The business operates on a direct-to-consumer model, with monthly online sales averaging around $155,000, and also through retail distribution, with its products available in over 6,000 stores nationwide, including major chains like Whole Foods Market, Kroger, and Raley's.

The company's product line includes several flavors such as Pure, Chocolate, Pineapple, Watermelon, Blueberry, and a caffeinated option called Sparkling Coconut + Energy. These beverages are non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free, and contain no added sugars or preservatives, positioning them as a healthy hydration option. The products are packaged in eco-friendly, slim aluminum cans. A key aspect of the company's business model is its social mission; it donates 10% of profits from each case sold to various nonprofit organizations, including the Down Syndrome Foundation of Florida and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Additionally, through a partnership with Greenspark, the company plants a tree for every case sold.

Once Upon A Coconut has attracted high-profile investors, including "Shark Tank" investor Daymond John, UFC CEO Dana White, and NFL stars Rob Gronkowski and Ronnie Stanley. This backing has helped increase brand visibility and support its growth strategy. The company, which received $4.72M in a seed round in late 2024, is focused on expanding its retail footprint and innovating within what its founder considers a traditionally "boring" beverage category.