Sales director Nick Brennand said the deal was a ‘coup’ for the business and reflected the changing habits of European consumers.
“Convenience bags of ice have been popular in the UK for a while and we’re starting to see that trend move across Europe too,” said Brennand.
Government support
Commenting on the company’s experience in international markets, Brennand thanked government trade advisers for helping The Ice Co find retail buyers and supplying a variety of support, ranging from market research to networking opportunities.
He added: “For businesses looking to export, it’s important to understand international consumers’ habits and to ensure you make the most of the support available. There’s nothing stopping other local food and drink producers from exporting like us.”
The Ice Co’s European deal followed its export success in 2016, securing a contract to supply supermarkets in the United Arab Emirates with help from the Department for International Trade (DIT) and the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs.
‘Smart logistics strategy’
Mark Robson, DIT head of regions for Yorkshire and the Humber, said: “The Ice Co’s smart logistics strategy, ingenuity, and well-thought export plan, has allowed their convenience bags of ice to be enjoyed in homes across the world.
“The firm’s success demonstrates the vast potential and possibilities to export food and drink, and I hope their achievements inspire fellow Yorkshire firms to start their journey in selling overseas.”
Exports of Yorkshire food and drink hit £1.2bn in the year to June 2018, an increase of 7.9% on the year before.
Meanwhile, whisky and chocolate continue to top the UK’s food and drink export lists, new research by the Food & Drink Federation has found.
