In addition to his prolific fundraising activities that have generated more than $100 million for numerous charities, Neal Zeavy supports new businesses as an angel investor. In 2016, Neal Zeavy invested in Nic’s Organic Fast Food, one of the first fast-food chains offering 100 percent organic produce. According to Nielsen data on organic products, organic food sales in the United States reached more than 20 billion dollars in 2018, a nine-percent increase year over year. Interest in organic products has become more mainstream as more consumers consider factors such as sustainability and ethical sourcing when making purchases. The demand for organically-grown fruits and vegetables is particularly high amongst Millennials, who are more environmentally-conscious about their food choices. The largest segment of organic food customers are concerned about the pesticides or toxins in conventionally-grown produce but are not deeply knowledgeable on organic farming practices. Most members of this consumer segment rely on organic certification labels administered by the USDA to make purchasing decisions. More sophisticated consumers may prefer to buy organic produce from small, locally-run farms.
Operating from Seattle, Neal Martin Zeavy oversees a broad spectrum of commercial real estate investments spanning the country. One of the high-profile companies Neal Martin Zeavy has helped launch and expand is Chicago-based Nic's Organic Fast Food. Featuring Quality Assurance International-certified organic ingredients, Nic’s takes pride in providing options that meet a number of dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free. As part of its commitment to gluten-free offerings, Nic’s allows customers to substitute the organic white hamburger bun with an organic gluten-free waffle bun or lettuce wrap. This meets the needs of people living with celiac disease, for whom gluten triggers a small intestine-damaging immune response. In addition, some people experience non-celiac gluten sensitivity, which features celiac disease-like symptoms, while avoiding intestinal damage.Gluten-free diets steer clear of traditional bread, pasta, and cereal products, as well as specific items such as soy sauce and beer. In order to avoid nutritional deficiencies associated with lack of fiber, those who live gluten free often consume ingredients such as quinoa, brown rice, vegetables, beans, and fruits. They also supplement with B vitamins, including folic acid, which are typically included in fortified bread products.
