Hey

Pasta Evangelists, a pasta subscription startup in London, had an 8-figure acquisition — proof that even commodity-style businesses can build real enterprise value. So, how did they do it?

They didn’t just sell pasta — they built moats:

• Brand Moat: They became niche experts through engaging content and a Pasta Academy, reinforcing their identity and allowing premium pricing.

• Production Moat: They acquired a pasta factory, producing in-house and avoiding white-labeling dependency.

• Product Moat: They imported Italian chefs to craft protected, unique recipes.

The result? Not just higher sales, but real equity-creating assets — the kind buyers like Barilla (their acquirer) pay a premium for.

Takeaway: Revenue alone won’t command top-dollar at exit. Moats — brand, product, and production — turn your company into an investable asset, not just a cashflow machine.

👉 Recommended Read: 24 Assets by Daniel Priestley — a practical guide to transforming your business into something worth buying. Here’s the Amazon link (not an affiliate — just something we love).

Quick Tip

If you're in a commoditized industry, ask: What can I own that others can’t replicate easily?

Could it be a process, factory, brand, recipe, community, or distribution advantage?

Market Pulse

📈 Strategics Are Back in Force

Strategic buyers are fueling the 2025 M&A rebound — with deal activity up 20% YoY as they look to vertically integrate and lock in margins (Ropes & Gray).

Analysts expect M&A volume to surpass $4T this year, driven by strong demand for brand, production, and distribution moats (Reuters).

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If there’s one thing this Pasta Evangelists story proves, it’s that the right ingredients — brand, production, and product — can turn even a simple idea into a life-changing exit.

Until then, keep building to unlock your wealth.
— Unlocking Wealth Weekly