Sweet export success

Great Taste Award winner Blackthorn Foods saw sales of its’ Melting Pot’ gourmet fudge grow by 25% in 2010, especially in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland.

Blackthorn Foods, based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, gained Great Taste Awards in 2010 for its Manuka Honey Fudge and Rum and Raisin, both rated two gold stars, and one gold star for its Chocolate Fudge.

The artisan company, which specialises in handmade fudge, saw record sales to established customers and also with a host of newcomers, in the wake of the Great Taste Awards 2010. New customers added include Whole Foods, Dobbies, Hider and Cress in Great Britain and Donnybrook Fair in Dublin.

Formed by three enterprising sisters, Jenny Lowry, Dorothy Bittles and Cathy Johnston, Blackthorn Foods is carving out a strong business base as a manufacturer of premium plain and flavoured fudge, handmade products that use locally sourced ingredients wherever possible.

Jenny Lowry says, “Further growth in 2011 will come from the work we are doing to identify new outlets, especially public attractions, delis and farm shops throughout Britain and the Republic. We also have our sights set on expanding into the US, where there’s a substantial market for the type of artisan product that we produce Belfast.” The company also supplies shops at three museums in the Irish capital including the prestigious National Museum of Ireland.