Fudge Kitchen secures new export markets

Fudge Kitchen, a UK producer of gourmet fudge, has secured new export deals worth over half a million pounds over the next five years.

Following 2019’s edition of ISM in Cologne, Kent-based Fudge Kitchen secured a new deal with Canadian speciality food buyer, Dovetale, which will see the company’s products sold in over 30 stores across Canada.

Fudge Kitchen 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!

“I would encourage other businesses to consider exploring overseas markets. There is nothing to lose provided you seek advice before taking a major plunge.”

As Christmas-time in the UK accounts for approximately 60% of Fudge Kitchen’s overall sales, exporting ensures that the company sustains growth all year round. As well as Canada, Fudge Kitchen has also secured six-figure deals in Germany and the UAE.

The Department for International Trade (DIT) supported the company with Trade Access Programme (TAP) funding and market advice.

Ben Raby, Head of Region – South East at DIT said: “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.”

In 2018 the UK exported £24.2 million worth of toffee, caramel and similar sweets – a 20% increase from 2017 and an increase of over 62.4% over the past five years.

The fudge producer has developed new recipes to cater for various tastes across the world. For example, the company has launched its Salty Liquorice and Chocolate Rose fudge for the Scandinavian Market, while Dark Chocolate & Pistachio, and Date & Cardamom fudge are popular in the Middle East.

In the UK, the company’s fudge can be found everywhere from Harrods, Harvey Nichols and Selfridges through to high end hotels and hospitality outlets.

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