Numilk, a trailblazer in the plant-based milk industry, has rapidly gained attention for its innovative milk-making machines and commitment to sustainability. Founded by Ari Tolwin and Joe Savino, the company has reimagined how consumers access fresh, dairy-free alternatives by providing an eco-friendly solution that eliminates preservatives, processed sweeteners, and fillers. As of 2025, Numilk’s net worth is estimated to be around $55 million, despite ongoing financial challenges and operational losses. This article delves into the rise of Numilk, its financial journey, and what the future holds for this promising startup.
The Origins of Numilk: Visionaries with a Purpose
Numilk was co-founded by Ari Tolwin and Joe Savino, both of whom hail from New York but are now based in Los Angeles. The duo’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident early on, with Tolwin previously leading Happy Tree Maple Water and Savino founding Harvest Beverage Group. Their shared passion for creating healthier beverage alternatives led to the birth of Numilk in 2017, with a mission to revolutionize plant-based milk by offering fresh, minimally processed options.
Tolwin and Savino’s business acumen is backed by their education from the Lubin School of Business, where they both earned degrees in business administration. Their combined expertise in beverage production and business management played a critical role in shaping Numilk’s innovative business model, which focuses on delivering plant-based milk through easy-to-use machines installed in grocery stores and cafes.
How Numilk Works: A Fresh Approach to Plant-Based Milk
At the core of Numilk’s offering is its proprietary milk-making machine, a device that allows consumers to create fresh almond, oat, or cashew milk in under two minutes. The process is simple: users insert a bottle into the machine, select their preferred milk base and sweetness level, and watch as the device dispenses freshly made milk. For $299, customers can purchase a home version of the machine, making it possible to enjoy fresh, plant-based milk without any additives or preservatives.
Numilk’s approach is both eco-friendly and consumer-centric. The company’s refillable bottles help reduce plastic waste, and its commitment to using organic and whole-food ingredients resonates with health-conscious consumers. The milk pouches, available in a variety of flavors including almond, cashew, pistachio, and oat, contain no gums, processed sweeteners, or preservatives. For those looking for more variety, Numilk also offers latte and protein-enhanced pouches, including options like mushroom mocha.
Financial Journey: Revenue, Losses, and Investment
Numilk’s financial history has been a mix of impressive growth and significant challenges. In its first year of operation in 2018, the company generated $40,000 in revenue but incurred a loss of $2 million. The following year saw a revenue increase to $320,000, yet losses also grew to $3 million. In 2020, Numilk reported $400,000 in revenue but continued to struggle financially with a $2 million loss.
Despite these challenges, Numilk’s potential was evident to investors, most notably Mark Cuban. During their 2021 appearance on Shark Tank, Tolwin and Savino sought $1 million for 5% equity, valuing the company at $20 million. While some of the Sharks were skeptical about the high valuation, Cuban saw the potential in Numilk’s sustainable and plant-based focus. As a vegetarian himself, Cuban offered a deal of $2 million — $1 million for equity at 7% and the other $1 million as a loan at a 3% interest rate. The founders accepted this offer, securing a vital lifeline for their company.
As of 2025, Numilk’s net worth is estimated at $55 million, bolstered by Cuban’s investment and a growing interest in plant-based alternatives. However, the company continues to operate at a loss, facing challenges such as supply chain disruptions and manufacturing delays.
Challenges and Controversies: Kickstarter and Supply Chain Issues
Despite its promising start, Numilk has faced significant operational challenges. In 2021, the company launched a Kickstarter campaign for Numilk Home, a smaller and more affordable version of their commercial machine, priced at $199. The campaign raised $222,000, demonstrating strong consumer interest. However, manufacturing delays led to backlash from supporters, many of whom requested refunds after extended wait times.
Supply chain disruptions have further complicated Numilk’s growth. The company’s reliance on specific components for its machines made it vulnerable to delays, impacting its ability to fulfill orders promptly. To address these challenges, Numilk announced a partnership with Hamilton Beach as a manufacturing partner, aiming to streamline production and meet demand more efficiently.
Sustainability at the Core: Reducing Waste and Promoting Health
Numilk’s business model aligns closely with the growing consumer demand for sustainability and transparency. The company’s reusable bottles and fresh, additive-free milk options appeal to eco-conscious consumers. By allowing users to make only the amount of milk they need, Numilk helps reduce food waste, a significant issue in the dairy and plant-based milk industries.
Additionally, Numilk’s products are packed with essential nutrients like calcium, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins D and E. Their fiber content also promotes gut health, making them an attractive choice for health-focused consumers.
Partnerships and Expansion: From Grocery Stores to Home Kitchens
In an effort to expand its footprint, Numilk has secured a distribution deal with Whole Foods, enabling it to reach a broader audience. As of 2025, Numilk machines are available in 111 stores across the United States, with plans to expand to more grocery stores and coffee shops. The company’s B2B model targets food vendors and cafes, while its B2C efforts focus on making Numilk Home machines accessible to individual consumers.
The partnership with Hamilton Beach is expected to play a critical role in scaling production and reducing delays, positioning Numilk for more stable growth in the coming years.
Numilk’s Net Worth and Future Prospects
As of 2025, Numilk’s net worth stands at an estimated $55 million. While the company continues to operate at a loss, its expanding customer base and increased brand recognition suggest a path to profitability. Mark Cuban’s investment not only provided necessary capital but also validated Numilk’s business model, encouraging other investors to take interest.
The plant-based milk market, projected to reach $42 billion by 2028, presents a significant opportunity for Numilk. As the company continues to refine its production process and expand its retail presence, its net worth could see substantial growth in the next few years.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(993x157:995x159)/rex-heuermann-family-wife-asa-ellrup-main-split-031725-6b494ef6064f41fa9ea75d537ff1c3b2.jpg)
