Durham-based healthy snacking wholesaler, Epicurium is celebrating this Autumn after boosting its product range by 20% with the addition of 25 new innovative independent brands.
The exciting new ranges tap into some of 2019’s biggest food trends, including protein, low sugar and vegan. The new lines are already proving popular with Epicurium’s core clients, including independent retailers across the UK.
Speaking about the introduction of the new ranges and the growth of the business, Epicurium Managing Director, Ben McKechnie, said: “We are delighted to be working with some of the most exciting and innovative retailers in the snacking industry. As a business, we have always sought out fresh and exciting products to help give our customers an edge in what is a highly competitive space within retail.
“Our sales figures continue to grow and indicate that the public are becoming bolder and more adventurous with their snacking choices, and they are looking for more than just a satisfying taste. Consumers are willing to pay more for a premium product, such as Huel or Flower & White, which can deliver additional benefits to their snacking experience, whether that is a hit of protein, a vegan-friendly sweet treat, or even non-plastic packaging.
“Our new ranges push the boundaries of contemporary food trends, and we’re already forecasting what the biggest trends of 2020 will be – introducing brands such as Kriket that mix cereals and nuts with crickets, as a delicious and sustainable source of protein. While this may not be for everyone, it’s certainly one to watch in the New Year.”
Brands which feature the latest innovative ingredients have found a new home in the Consett-based wholesaler’s warehouse. These include Nooro, which produce CBD oat bars, and Gutsy Captain, which taps into the tea phenomenon, kombucha.
In addition to a wide range of snack bars, bites and packets, the extended line-up includes a wide range of drinks, including Vit Hit, Plenish, Huel, and Fitch.
Epicurium Trading Manager, James Christie, explains: “When it comes to healthy convenience, drinks tick every box. While we have seen some of the bigger retailers explore this concept, it is the independent brands that are stealing a march on their competitors, packing their products full of organic, modern, low sugar treats that consumers love.”
Data from Kantar World Panel Usage shows that in 2019, one in three shoppers now buy a healthy snack at least once a week from a convenience store, and the number is continuing to rise. Speaking about the data, James explained: “There is a fantastic opportunity for convenience stores, particularly those around high-commuter zones, to capitalise on consumers desires for healthy products on the go.
“Savvy retailers turn to independent brands to meet this demand; capitalising not just on the products but the online buzz they generate among their fans, to differentiate themselves from their more mainstream competitors.”
Epicurium provides healthy snacking options to convenience stores, cafes, offices and other eateries across the UK from its Consett-based distribution hub.
The organisation employs 25 people and was established in 2011. The business now offers over 120 brands to retailers across the UK.
