Singapore deal for Glens of Antrim Crisps
Food NI member Glens of Antrim Potatoes in Cushendall has shipped its first container of crisps to a supermarket chain in Singapore.
The deal with Cold Storage was secured at Food Hotel Asia in April and the retailer has since confirmed three additional orders. It builds on the company’s £650,000 capital investment earlier this year, to establish an in-house crisp manufacturing facility, creating eight additional jobs.
Commenting on the success, Michael McKillop, GOA’s sales director, said: “The Asia Pacific region is earmarked to be the fastest growing market for savoury snacks.
“This deal with Cold Storage in Singapore is an encouraging win for the business and builds on our order to another large supermarket chain in Singapore, Smartprice, who should receive their first containers in September.
“Invest NI’s support enabled us to establish an in-house crisp manufacturing facility at our Cushendall factory which is a significant component in our strategy to drive growth in our crisp range.
“The intense export marketing activity with Invest NI’s food development and in market teams is now paying off with new stockists coming on board and we look forward to building on this momentum.’
Glens of Antrim launched its crisp range in 2015 and has benefited from £99,875 of support from Invest NI to establish its in-house crisp manufacturing capabilities.
I’m delighted that Glens of Antrim is gaining traction with its new product area and building its international customer base. The creation of eight new assisted jobs in Causeway Coast and Glens is also positive news.
The company has also taken part in dozens of food development initiatives, including meet the buyer events and trade visits. The company recently exhibited at the Summer Fancy Food Show in New York, the largest specialty food industry event in North America.
John Hood, Invest NI’s Director of Food and Drink said: “Market intelligence and consumer insight are key factors in driving the strategic direction of a business. I’m delighted that Glens of Antrim is gaining traction with its new product area and building its international customer base. The creation of eight new assisted jobs in Causeway Coast and Glens is also positive news.
“The deals with Cold Storage and SmartPrice were confirmed following conversations on our Northern Ireland Food stand at Food Hotel Asia in April.”
Picture: Michael McKillop of Glens of Antrim Crisps with John Hood, Invest NI Food director
