Chicago Kombucha Startup Won Pitch Competition
The local beverage brand has expanded its organic green tea line to over 1,000 retail locations nationwide.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Organic Food
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Would you choose a non-alcoholic kombucha drink instead of an alcoholic beverage in social settings?
Chicago-based beverage company RMBR recently secured a win at the Naturally Rising Chicago pitch competition. The brand, which launched in 2022, is now distributed in more than 1,000 stores across the country.
Why it matters
The company aims to offer a healthier alternative for social settings by prioritizing organic ingredients and intentionally avoiding the vinegary profiles common in traditional kombucha.
RMBR current distribution spans over 1,000 stores following its official 2022 launch and 2024 rebrand. While the brand has secured national shelf space, long-term sales data and market share comparisons against established kombucha competitors remain under investigation.
The players
RMBR
A Chicago-based beverage company producing organic green tea-based kombucha.
Mariano's
A retail grocery chain that served as the first store to stock RMBR products.
The details
Founded by alumni of Michigan State University, the company brews its kombucha using organic green tea and intentionally omits fruit juice from its formulations. The production process originated in a repurposed condominium, and the finished product is packaged in aluminum cans rather than the glass bottles typically used for fermented beverages.
Timeline
Development of the company began in 2020.
RMBR officially launched in 2022.
Mariano's became the first retail partner in late 2023.
The brand completed a full rebrand from Community Kombucha in 2024.
RMBR participated in the Newtopia Now event in September 2026.
Health Landscape
The brand follows a growing industry trend of moving away from traditional glass bottling for shelf-stable fermented beverages. This shift toward aluminum packaging mirrors broader efforts in the craft beverage sector to optimize distribution and supply chain efficiency.
For readers seeking alternatives to sugary sodas or high-acid fermented drinks, this product offers a green tea-based option without fruit juice additives. Those with specific dietary sensitivities should review ingredient labels on any new beverage to ensure they align with their health goals.
The takeaway
When choosing fermented beverages, look for options that prioritize simple, organic bases without added fruit juices or excess sugars. Consult with a nutritionist if you are evaluating how specific fermented products impact your digestive health and blood sugar management.
Further reading
Learn more about the local market for fermented beverages in our Organic Food section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by New Hope Natural Media.
Live Poll
Would you choose a non-alcoholic kombucha drink instead of an alcoholic beverage in social settings?
