Straand, the Australian start-up challenging the global haircare industry with prebiotic ingredients to improve the scalp microbiome, landed $2 million in a pre-seed investment from Unilever Ventures.

WHO: Melbourne-headquartered Straand was founded in 2022 by Sarah Hamilton, Jeremy Hunt, Tim Brown, Nick Morris, and Meagan Pate, who is the general manager. The founders saw an opportunity to address scalp concerns in mass-market distribution without harsh chemicals. The range currently comprises four prebiotic scalp care products leveraging Lucas Meyer Cosmetics' trademarked prebiotic ingredient Defenscalp, which balances the biome and helps combat dry, itchy skin and common conditions, including dandruff. The brand also has a premium range in development that will launch in the US through DTC and Amazon.

WHY: The investment will pave the way for the Australian-made brand to expand into the US, UK, Europe, and China.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS: "Dandruff and broader scalp concerns are a significant and much maligned condition globally. There has been limited innovation in the scalp health category for many years and it is ripe for disruption," says Rachel Harris, Partner at Unilever Ventures. "Straand stood out with its microbiome-focused formulations, bold branding, youthful appeal and affordable positioning. We are excited to support Jeremy and the team on bringing Straand to market."

DETAILS:

• Straand received $2 million in a pre-seed investment from Unilever Ventures.
• Up to this point the brand has been funded by the founders. 
• Co-founder Jeremy Hunt helped pioneer the cross-border e-commerce and daigou trade from Australia to China as co-founder and COO of Health More and was previously marketing and business manager at Swisse Wellness and Myer.
• Co-founder Sarah Hamilton also co-founded Australian skincare brand Sand & Sky and has a proven track record in taking brands to a global stage through the power of social media.
• Co-founders Tim Brown and Nick Morris have strong international experience in China cross-border e-commerce, personal care, and global brand development. 
• Co-founder and General Manager Meagan Pate has a media background and consulted for businesses such as organic self-tan brand Three Warriors and TBH Skincare. 
• Lempriere Wells corporate advisory and private investment advised the brand in securing seed investment from Unilever Ventures.
• In October, the brand launched into Australian online beauty retailer Adore Beauty as part of a strategic partnership.