Christmas comes early for fudge maker
The Canterbury-based producer has doubled the size of its product team to account for the surge in orders over the festive period.
Fudge Kitchen has tapped into a growing global demand for British fudge and has secured a new deal with Canadian specialist food buyer Dovetale, which will see its products sold in 30 stores across the country. Turnover is set to grow by 2.5% as a result.
Export’s positive contribution
Managing director Sîan Holt said: “International sales have positively contributed to our annual turnover which has been steadily growing over the last few years, with exporting currently representing around 16% of revenue.
“Since we started selling overseas, we have made great friends all over the world. For example, our main German customer is now a fully converted Fudge Lover and wears his ‘Fudge Dealer’ belt buckle & Fudge Kitchen chef’s jacket with pride.”
The manufacturer’s export endeavours have been supported by the Department for International Trade (DIT) through its Trade Access Programme Funding and market advice.
Global demand
DIT head of region for the south east said: “Christmas is a really busy time of year for businesses across the UK and it is great to see Fudge Kitchen tap into the global demand for British food and drink to sustain its growth year-round.
“We are looking forward to seeing what the future holds for the company as it seeks to expand its sales to the Middle East and North America in the New Year with DIT’s support.”
As well as Canada, Fudge Kitchen has also secured six-figure deals in Germany and the UAE, worth nearly half a million pounds over the next five years.
Holt added: “I would encourage other businesses to consider exploring overseas markets. There is nothing to lose provided you seek advice before taking a major plunge.”
