We’ve raised capital for many high-growth New Zealand businesses over the last 10 years that have gone on to achieve incredible things. In our latest blog series, we revisit some of those key company capital raises and check in with the companies to discover what raising funds via Snowball Effect helped them achieve and their subsequent business growth.
Snowball Effect has supported personal care company Anihana with three capital raises to date, which has enabled the New Zealand company to expand both locally and internationally.
In this article, we catch up with Anihana founder and Smile Director Sophie Cooper, who shares insights on raising capital, her tips for other companies considering raising funds, and what is next for Anihana.
Tell us about Anihana
Anihana was born in 2016 when I purchased a soap manufacturing company I’d worked at for two years and poured my passion and love into soap and bath bomb making.
Anihana brings joy and simplicity to self-care with sustainable, fun hair, bath, and body products designed to create moments of 'me time.'
Our products are available at over 8,000 stores across New Zealand, Australia and the US, with stockists including Chemist Warehouse, Farmers, Coles, Woolworths, Walmart, Target and Amazon.
What did the capital raised by Anihana in 2020 and 2021 via Snowball Effect help the business achieve?
The capital allowed us to rebrand from Ahhh to Anihana, giving us a fresh identity with new packaging and a new name. It also helped us invest in our team, which has fueled our rapid local and overseas growth.
How has it been working with Snowball Effect on these two previous capital raises and your current 2024 raise?
Snowball Effect has made the capital-raising process so much smoother. Their support and access to an incredible network of investors really takes a lot of pressure off us.
What’s your advice for companies who are considering raising capital?
Be prepared and transparent—investors need to see your vision clearly and know you have the structure to achieve it. Make sure your financials and business plans are solid, and don’t be afraid to seek advice.
What’s next for Anihana?
We’re excited about expanding into new US retailers and are currently researching potential new markets. Plus, we have some innovative new products in development that we can't wait to share!
