Love Beets from G’s is a well know product both in Europe and abroad and it was launched in the US 10 years ago. It has also gained traction in Asia and Australia through a partnership with Australian company One Harvest. There is also brand presence in the South African market.
“One Harvest has decided to concentrate on the Australian domestic market, we still have a great relationship with the company, but we are now continuing to develop the Love Beets brand from the UK as we did not want to lose the South East Asian market which had been built up,” explains Graham Forber from G’s. “Now that most of the Covid travel restrictions have been lifted in SE Asia we can develop this market further.”
G’s Fresh had a stand at the Asia Fruit Logistica tradeshow in early November to primarily promote the Love Beets brand, but also to sound out interest for their other products such as salads and leafy greens.
“There is definitely potential for our products in Asia, and we had a lot of interest in Love Beets. The Asian market is normally well supplied from countries such as Australia, but the global supply chain is under pressure due to climate issues, so if we can engage with our customers and pick up on any shortfall then we will.”
Graham with colleague Sarah Huntley at Asia Fruit Logistica
G’s Fresh are not the only UK company exploring markets further afield, traditionally UK companies have supplied the domestic market and possibly exported a bit to Europe or Scandinavia. With Brexit, Europe has become more difficult and the skyrocketing production costs has meant even the domestic market is tough with cheaper imports.
“We need to be looking at new markets and while the DTI has been great, their funding is limited and goes to products with the best returns. There needs to be more help and support for other products going abroad. There are many good markets in Asia to send our produce to as the Asian consumers want high quality western food.”