Radiant Foods plants seeds of success with Innovate UK support

Radiant Foods is dedicated to fostering a more sustainable future for the UK food industry by offering fresh, plant-based meats. By consuming plant-based meats, individuals contribute to a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a 99% decrease in water usage, according to a Nature Food study.

The company’s products, which include a variety of slow marinated fillets, are free from artificial additives, processed ingredients and refined sugars, offering a nutritious and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional meat. By catering to the growing demand for ethical and healthy food choices, Radiant Foods is helping to reshape the food industry and promote sustainable eating habits.

Satya Botcha, Co-Founder and Director of Radiant Foods, says: “By championing plant-based alternatives, Radiant Foods is not just offering a healthier choice but also taking a significant step toward reducing our environmental footprint.

“Our commitment to sustainability is setting a new standard in the food industry, demonstrating how innovation can drive both economic success and ecological responsibility.”

Strategic and tailored support

Radiant Foods’ journey with Innovate UK Business Growth began in December 2022, following its success in the Innovate UK Young Innovators Programme, which comes with Innovate UK Business Growth support as standard. The partnership started with a comprehensive needs assessment, led by Innovation and Growth Specialist, Stephen Begg, to identify the most productive avenues for accelerating the company’s growth.

This assessment focused on key areas such as integrating Radiant Foods into major retail supply chains, refining its go-to-market strategy and enhancing its financial planning, including cash flow forecasting and tax management.

The support has been instrumental in helping Radiant Foods navigate the complexities of the retail market. The guidance provided, helped the company research the needs of retailers and intermediaries, which was crucial for gaining shelf space in prestigious stores like Selfridges. This support also extended to refining its marketing strategy, focusing on converting its existing sales pipeline into tangible financial gains and advising on product range choices and communication strategies.

Satya notes: “Stephen supported me in growth strategies, cash flow management and customer persona. But most importantly, he was a friend who I could share my perspectives with without judgement.”

“The support has helped us grow from a small-scale business to launching in supermarkets in London such as Selfridges. Stephen is like a wise friend who will first support you as a human being, and as a founder second.”

Impact on growth, jobs and investment

The strategic support from Innovate UK Business Growth has significantly accelerated Radiant Foods’ growth. Since working with Innovate UK, the company has experienced a remarkable 200% increase in revenue. This growth has enabled Radiant Foods to create a new role focused on social media, which is critical for enhancing its brand presence and customer engagement.

Additionally, Radiant Foods secured a £15,000 grant as part of Innovate UK Business Growth’s Research & Technology Organisations (RTO) /Catapult grant for clients, which provided access to leading innovation facilities and expertise in the UK.  Further, it was encouraged to apply for and won a £50,000 grant from Innovate UK focused on socially and environmentally beneficial innovations. These funds have been essential in supporting product development and scaling efforts.

“The grant-supported access we received to innovation facilities and expertise, along with the £50,000 grant and the strategic guidance from Innovate UK Business Growth, has been crucial in helping us scale our operations and solidify our market position,” adds Satya.

Moreover, Innovate UK’s support has been pivotal in helping Radiant Foods evaluate the right timing for external investment and in applying for R&D grants to develop new products. With this strategic guidance, the company is now better positioned to manage its growth, with a clearer understanding of when to pursue further innovation versus focusing on consolidating its current market gains.

Sustainable innovation for a greener future

The support from Innovate UK Business Growth has positioned Radiant Foods as a leader in the healthy living and agriculture sectors. With continued support, the company is set to expand further, exploring new markets and product innovations that align with its mission of promoting sustainable eating habits.

“The combination of strategic guidance, tailored support and critical funding provided by Innovate UK Business Growth has been transformative for Radiant Foods.

“We are now better equipped to navigate the complexities of scaling our business and are excited about the future possibilities this partnership has unlocked,” Satya concludes.

A partnership for growth and sustainability

Radiant Foods’ partnership with Innovate UK Business Growth illustrates how tailored innovation and growth support can drive significant business outcomes. Through a bespoke approach that addresses the unique challenges and opportunities faced by innovative organisations, Innovate UK Business Growth is helping businesses like Radiant Foods scale sustainably, contributing to the UK’s economic and environmental goals.

With its upward trajectory firmly established, Radiant Foods is well-positioned to continue leading the way in plant-based food innovation.

The grant-supported access we received to innovation facilities and expertise, along with the £50,000 grant and the strategic guidance from Innovate UK Business Growth, has been crucial in helping us scale our operations and solidify our market position.

– Satya Botcha, Co-Founder and Director of Radiant Foods