Bartesian
Manufacturer of cocktail machines and capsules
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Bartesian is a Chicago-based company that manufactures capsule-based cocktail machines for home and commercial use. The company operates on a razor-and-blade business model, selling automated cocktail makers that require proprietary single-use capsules containing non-alcoholic bitters, liquors, and juices.
 | |
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Home appliances |
| Founded | 2014 |
| Headquarters | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
Area served | North America |
Key people | Ryan Close (CEO) |
| Products | Capsule-based cocktail machines Single-serve cocktail capsules |
| Website | bartesian |
Founding and early development
The concept for an automated cocktail machine originated in the 2010s, when engineering students Bryan Fedorak and Jason Neevel began developing a capsule-based cocktail machine at the University of Waterloo.[1] Their early prototypes retrofitted domestic coffee machines to dispense mixed drinks using pre-measured ingredients.[1] In 2014, Fedorak partnered with Ryan Close to found Bartesian and commercialize the product. They launched a Kickstarter campaign in 2014 that raised $115,000 to cover early production costs.[1]
Dragon's Den appearance
The founders appeared on the Canadian television series Dragons’ Den in 2016.[1] Although the on-air deal did not close, the appearance led to new discussions with liquor distributors and ultimately to a branding and licensing agreement with Beam Suntory Inc..[1] This partnership enabled final assembly of the first production units in Kitchener, Ontario.[1] The first units were delivered to Kickstarter backers in 2017.[2]
Commercial expansion
In 2018 Bartesian entered into a manufacturing and marketing agreement with Hamilton Beach Brands to distribute its cocktail machines in the United States and Canada.[3] Bartesian officially released its product to the public through its direct-to-consumer (D2C) website in September 2019.[2][3]
During the COVID-19 pandemic, demand for at-home cocktail preparation increased sharply.[4] In response to global supply chain disruptions that affected capsule production, Bartesian relocated its headquarters from Ontario to Chicago and established a capsule-manufacturing facility near Chicago to reduce dependence on overseas suppliers.[4]
Investment and growth
In 2021 Bartesian closed a US $20 million funding round led by Cleveland Avenue LLC, the Chicago-based venture firm founded by former McDonald’s CEO Don Thompson, with continuing investment from Beam Suntory.[2] At the time, Bartesian had 10 employees.[2] Hyatt Hotels president Pete Sears joined the board, and Bartesian began piloting its machines as minibar replacements at select Hyatt properties.[3]
By 2022, Bartesian had expanded its workforce and installed machines at venues such as Fenway Park, Dodger Stadium, and Wrigley Field, as well as American Airlines airport lounges.[3] The company's capsule technology was later integrated into Black + Decker’s Bev machine.[5]
Products and technology
Business model
Bartesian operates on a razor and blade business model similar to Keurig and Nespresso, in which sales of the company’s capsule machines drive continuing demand for proprietary single-use drink pods.[9] The company reports that capsules are sold through its direct-to-consumer website, subscription service, and retail partners.