The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

Milliways, the UK-based plastic-free chewing gum brand, has secured $3 million in funding to expand its retail footprint in the US, underscoring growing investor confidence in sustainable and health-focused confectionery.

The latest round attracted backing from industry veterans including Mehmet Yüksek, former CEO of Perfetti Van Melle North America, and Leon Amram, former owner of Intergum, alongside other executives with decades of experience building global chewing gum brands.

The funds will be used to increase marketing, expand distribution, and scale inventories, building on a successful first year in the US market.

Founded in 2021 by Tom Raviv, Milliways has grown into one of the UK’s largest gum companies and, since entering the US market just over a year ago, is now stocked in more than 2,000 stores including Sprouts, Meijer, Hy-Vee, Raley’s and Fred Meyer.

According to SPINS data, it is the top-selling plastic-free gum brand in the US.

Milliways positions itself as a clean label, better-for-you alternative to conventional gum, which has come under scrutiny for its microplastic content. The gum is plant-based, biodegradable, sugar- and aspartame-free, non-GMO, and contains xylitol, catering to consumers seeking incremental lifestyle improvements and sustainable options.

Flavours include Spearmint, Peppermint, Mighty Mint, Bubblemint, Strawberry and Watermelon, sold in ten- and 30-piece packs.

“Conventional chewing gum is one of the most concentrated sources of microplastic ingestion,” Raviv said. “Retailers and consumers are increasingly embracing high-quality, plastic-free alternatives, and this investment allows us to make Milliways available to more consumers every day.”

The US launch reflects a broader trend in the confectionery sector toward sustainable and functional products, as changing consumer behaviours and regulatory pressures shift demand away from conventional, plastic-containing items.

Brands like Milliways, which combine environmental credentials with taste and convenience, are well-positioned to capture market share in the expanding 'better-for-you' gum category.

Since its launch, Milliways has raised $10 million in total funding and distributes in over 10,000 stores worldwide, signalling the growing commercial viability of eco-conscious alternatives in traditionally mass-market confectionery.