Retro desserts revival

The revival of ‘retro’ desserts like sticky toffee pudding, spotted dick and apple crumble has created a profitable opportunity for pubs, and Kerrymaid is helping operators cash in on the trend with its new Pudding Party initiative.

Pudding Parties are a great way to drive footfall and sales, by offering customers the chance to taste a selection of seven to eight desserts in one sitting, then rate them according to taste and appearance – encouraging discussion and engagement.

Kerrymaid has launched an online resource to support licensees in hosting events. The Kerrymaid website includes a range of inspiring recipes from brand ambassador Sophie Wright, free downloadable POS materials, as well as marketing tips and advice on running a successful Pudding Party.

Licensee David Thompson from the Old Wine Vaults in Faversham, Kent, hosted his first Pudding Party to a sold-out crowd, and has now established it as a permanent fixture in the calendar, earning a gross profit of 60 per cent.

David says the evening helped increase footfall: “Our first-ever Pudding Party was a great success, and generated extra footfall and revenue on an otherwise quiet night. We have already taken bookings for the next three months, which we have promoted using the free POS downloaded from the Kerrymaid website.”

David explains that at each event, a succession of desserts is presented as part of a ‘Pudding Parade,’ before being served up for customers to rate using specially created tasting cards. At the end of the night, a winning dish is announced.

Feedback from customers at The Old Wine Vaults was glowing, with comments such as: “Luxurious and rich, yum!,” “Refreshing and creamy, tastes fresh and light,” and “10/10.”