It's a fairy tale come true for a children's nutrition company! Once Upon a Farm, co-founded by Hollywood star Jennifer Garner, saw its shares soar 20% on its first day of public trading. But is this just a celebrity-fueled bubble, or a sign of a changing food industry?
On February 6, 2026, the New York Stock Exchange welcomed Once Upon a Farm to the public market, with shares opening at $21, a 16% jump from the initial offering price. By afternoon, the stock had climbed even higher, reaching a 20% increase. This debut marks a significant milestone for the company, which offers organic, cold-processed baby foods and kid snacks.
The company's IPO was priced at $18 per share, raising $197.9 million and valuing Once Upon a Farm at an impressive $724 million. Founded in 2015 by Cassandra Curtis and Ari Raz, the company has since gained celebrity backing. Garner, known for her roles in various films, joined as a co-founder in 2017, along with former Annie's Homegrown CEO John Foraker.
Garner's involvement adds a touch of Hollywood glamour, but the company's success is also tied to a broader trend. As consumers and policymakers push back against ultra-processed foods, especially for children, brands like Once Upon a Farm are gaining traction. This shift has hurt traditional food giants while propelling insurgent brands to new heights. In 2024, Once Upon a Farm's net sales skyrocketed by 66% to $156.8 million, though losses also increased.
But here's where it gets controversial: Foraker, now CEO of Once Upon a Farm, claims that many food and beverage companies don't keep their promises when acquiring smaller brands. He cites the well-known dispute between Ben & Jerry's and its former owner Unilever as an example. This raises the question: Can big corporations truly honor the missions of the brands they acquire?
Once Upon a Farm's decision to go public instead of seeking a sale is a strategic move to maintain its commitment to driving change in childhood nutrition. With a successful IPO, the company plans to pay off debt, invest in new equipment, and expand its operations. And with a growing trend of IPOs expected this year, it seems the public market is welcoming more and more companies.
So, is Once Upon a Farm's success a fairy tale or a sign of the times? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
