Why Sun Basket Is More Like Stitch Fix Than Blue Apron
The troubles Blue Apron's faced since going public last year has raised one big question for other meal-kit delivery start-ups in the ever-more-crowded space: what makes you stand out?
But Sun Basket's CEO doesn't think that question applies to his company.
“For us, it’s a fundamentally very different business,” Adam Zbar told Cheddar.
While Sun Basket does deliver packaged, pre-portioned meal-prep kits, it specializes on specific diets from Paleo to Mediterranean to gluten-free. Zbar says that gives his customers a more curated experience, more akin [Stitch Fix](https://cheddar.com/videos/how-stitch-fix-navigated-a-male-dominated-vc-landscape), the online styling subscription service.
Grocery shopping is harder for people sticking to strict diets than it is for those who don't have restrictions, explained Zbar. He says the convenience provided by Sun Basket makes it less likely customers abandon their subscriptions.
“Our retention rates are much higher than other players in the field, and the reason why is that we focused on a need.”
The company’s business model seems to resonate with investors too. Earlier this year, Sun Basket raised another [$57.8 million](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sun-basket-raises-578-million-in-new-funding-led-by-august-capital-300588291.html) in funding.
For full interview, [click here](https://cheddar.com/videos/healthy-cooking-made-easy).
Officials and power operators are bracing the public for blackouts caused by higher-than-average temperatures this summer. Utility officials in California and Arizona are warning of potential interruptions this summer due to the strain on energy supplies. Heat waves and drought conditions weaken power grids and available electricity reserves. This also makes hydroelectric power less reliable and raises the risk of wildfires.
Cisco DeVries, CEO of OhmConnect, joins Cheddar News to discuss.
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Pinterest is making a big move as it pushes further into online shopping. The image-focused social media site is acquiring A.I.-powered shopping platform THE YES as it focuses on enhancing the user shopping experience. THE YES's technology gives users a personalized feed of products based on their preferences, and Pinterest is banking on the tech to give it an advantage among other social media apps with built-in shopping features. Julie Bornstein, founder and CEO of THE YES, joins Closing Bell to discuss the company's unique technology, why it agreed to sell to Pinterest, her vision as she takes over shopping initiatives, and more.
Keith Barr, CEO of InterContinental Hotel Group, says he is expecting an 'incredible' summer for his business as pandemic conditions have normalized and people are ready to travel.
