Childhood favourites so sweet

Jan 6 2010 by Iain Laing, The Journal

DEMAND for nostalgia brands among expats has helped a British sweets firm land a deal to supply three million Sherbet Fountains to Australia.

Blackpool-based Tangerine Confectionery has secured a distribution deal with Australian Bulk Foods to supply Barratt Sherbet Fountains and 70,000 cases of Taveners Proper Sweets to Australian supermarkets.

The firm, which also produces famous sweet brands such as Butterkist Popcorn and Barratt Dip Dabs, is now planning a major campaign to boost exports by capitalising on the renewed popularity of traditional sweets.

Geoff Sharp, of Australian Bulk Foods, said: “Many British expats are helping drive sales as they remember the Sherbet Fountain as a childhood favourite. They are introducing their children and grandchildren to the brand.”

Stephen Joseph, executive chairman of Tangerine Confectionery, said: “The export potential of brands like the Sherbet Fountain and Taveners is huge.

“The pound’s weakness against other currencies presents an export opportunity and we plan to double our exports in the next three to five years.”