2026 Corporate Growth Awards Honoree: Clio Snacks

A Distinctive Treat is Born

It all began when the founder, Sergey Konchakovskiy, discovered a batch of Greek yogurt in his fridge that had thickened from overstraining. Reminded of a popular Eastern European treat from his childhood, he formed the yogurt into bars and dipped them in chocolate, creating a creamy, cheesecake-like treat that was entirely unique and even more delicious than the cottage cheese bars back home. Not only did Sergey launch the first and only hand-held refrigerated Greek  yogurt bar, but he introduced an entirely new style of snacking! His entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering persistence fueled his desire to bring this delicious refrigerated Greek yogurt bar to life, even when every co-manufacturer he spoke with told him it wasn’t possible. It is this combination of essential forces that ultimately led to sustainable success!

The production process grew from a fledgling venture in a rented garage with Soviet-era equipped sourced for Europe to their current, state-of-the-art facility in Piscataway, NJ that  employs over 150 employees often running two shifts every week. Along the way, they launched the product by distributing through small shops and offering free samples to get consumer feedback. The uniquely delicious taste and texture caught on, surprising and delighting consumers with every bite! As the demand rose, the company quickly adjusted and expanded capacity - demonstrating both resiliency and flexibility.  

Going from Zero Revenue to $120 Million

The company shifted from targeting New York bodegas to regional Whole Foods, and eventually national retailers like Walmart, Target and Sam’s Club. No opportunity was overlooked as out-of-the-box thinking continued to guide the company. The commitment drove even greater expansion as they infiltrated every industry sector, selling to a wide variety of regional and national food service providers reaching colleges and universities, convenience stores, and even adding direct-to-consumer e-commerce as an option as well.  

Adhering to a Philosophy of Change While Much Stays the Same

Despite all the changes that have taken place in response to the extraordinary growth, the company has continued to be guided by the innovative spirit that first fueled the leadership team. In fact, they have never stopped innovating, always focusing on improving operations and identifying new research and development initiatives, including an expanded product line to address a variety of taste preferences.

As John will emphasize on May 5, in spite of the shifting food landscape, whether seeking investors, distributors, employees, or customers, the company has always held fast to its core values.

We encourage you to register now to join us on May 5, 2026 to hear first-hand from John as he shares two important lessons that have been at the very foundation of Clio Snacks' legacy:

1. Never compromise on your vision; be bold and hold onto your own decisions and commitment.
2. Never compromise on taste; always uphold the highest quality and consistency, so you can

satisfy your customers every time with every bite.

Clio Snacks Prepares to Lead the Way    

With the rare combination of farsighted leaders, an entrepreneurial spirit, a values-driven culture and a high-quality distinctive product, Clio is destined to continue as one of New Jersey's most significant innovators!

LEARN MORE OR REGISTER NOW