South Korean foodtech startup Celeste has received an investment from NewKids Investment. Celeste operates “Manimani,” an innovative online and offline distribution platform that offers consumers affordable food products tailored to their preferences and needs, while helping small businesses secure sales channels and reduce inventory burdens.

Celeste has introduced a new purchasing process where customers can explore products in offline stores and, if interested, order them as meal kits through the online platform “Manimani” or receive them via rapid local delivery. This groundbreaking approach has driven steady growth in B2B sales alongside individual consumer purchases.

With this investment, Celeste plans to expand its offline presence, explore franchising opportunities, and support small food businesses in overcoming barriers to entering the distribution market. In the long term, the company aims to offer consumers a unique and innovative food experience platform.

NewKids Investment stated, “Celeste’s service model is unique and not currently present in the existing market, giving them a clear advantage in capturing this emerging segment. We see significant potential in their innovative distribution model to meet and satisfy the increasingly diverse needs of consumers.”

Celeste CEO In-gi Lee said, “This investment will enable our partner companies to connect with a wider range of consumers, scale product sourcing, and enhance price competitiveness. At the same time, consumers will have the opportunity to experience products in offline spaces and confidently purchase them online, based on their experience and trust. By leveraging this virtuous cycle, we aim to introduce a new paradigm in food purchasing across online and offline channels.”