Ranen ’14 and His Product, David, Profiled in New York Times Feature
In a report on the protein bar industry, New York Times journalist Elizabeth Dunn chose to make the protein-dense bar, David — co-founded by Zach Ranen ’14 — the article's centerpiece.
The attention paid to Ranen and David is merited, as evidenced by indicators provided by Dunn. The protein bar was introduced by Ranen and RXBar co-founder Peter Rahal in August of 2024 in the form of 20,000 product samples. Its official first day on the market was September 16, 2024, and in just one week, the company grossed over $1 million in sales revenue. Dunn notes that the product line is on track to collect $180 million in sales in 2025, supported by ample funding from investors: David announced in May that it raised $75 million in Series A funding.
The article offers background on the development and marketing of the product, and possibilities for its growth. According to Dunn’s research, signals indicate a bright future for Ranen and David. She cites a report by the food corporation Cargill, saying “61% of Americans increased their protein intake in 2024.” From Circana, a consumer packaged goods technology and data company, Dunn noted in 2024, “sales of protein drinks, powders, and supplements grew 18%.”
Ranen ’14 and His Product, David, Profiled in New York Times Feature
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