Hank Sauce, a New Jersey-based hot sauce maker with Jersey Shore roots, announced a strategic equity investment from former NFL player, podcaster and investor Jason Kelce.
The new investment and partnership with Kelce’s Winnie Capital will accelerate national expansion and increase Hank Sauce’s visibility and reach in new markets across the country.
Hank Sauce was created as a college project built around co-founder and chef Brian “Hank” Ruxton’s personal recipe. It eventually expanded into its wholly owned 10,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Millville and is now sold in more than 5,000 stores nationwide.
“I’m a longtime fan and consumer of Hank Sauce products,” said Kelce. “As someone who has spent time in the South Jersey area for the past 14 years, I’ve gotten to know the people who built the brand and see the awesomeness that exudes from behind and within its bottles.
“When an opportunity arose to be a part of this thing and help let folks know what makes this brand and product so fantastic for any of your culinary or flavor-adding endeavors, I couldn’t jump on board fast enough.
“Where it’s made, who’s behind it, how it came about and what it tastes like, has made this one of the easiest brands to partner with. I can’t wait to see where we take it.”
Hot sauce is a $2.9 billion category within the $33.4 billion seasonings, sauces, and condiments market.
“Trying Hank’s recipe in college completely changed my mind about hot sauce,” said Matt Pittaluga, co-founder of Hank Sauce. “After watching friends react to it for the first time, we realized there was a real opportunity for mild sauces that enhance food instead of overpowering it.
“We’ve poured our lives into building this brand, and we couldn’t be more excited to have Jason on board — not just as a partner and ambassador, but as a genuine fan long before this partnership.”
As part of the partnership, Kelce will collaborate with Hank Sauce on original content and ongoing brand strategy and awareness initiatives.
