Luke Larson, the founder and CEO of Vale, is aiming to transform the beverage landscape by establishing a network of automated matcha dispensers across the United States. His vision mirrors that of Starbucks, but focuses on matcha, a green tea powder celebrated for its calming effects without the jitters typical of coffee.
Previously, Larson played a significant role at Axon, where he rose from product manager to president, contributing to a revenue increase from approximately $100 million to $1 billion. After stepping down in 2022, he took a sabbatical in Switzerland, which allowed him to contemplate his next venture.
At Vale’s headquarters in Seattle's Pioneer Square, Larson is not only focused on expanding his business but also on attracting tech talent from major companies such as Amazon and Microsoft. His background includes military service as a Marine Corps infantry officer, where he earned a Bronze Star for valor.
Despite a rocky introduction to matcha during his sabbatical, Larson’s passion for the beverage has ignited a new chapter in his career, aiming to build a beverage empire from the ground up while reinforcing his commitment to the Seattle community.