Published: June 16, 2021 | Updated: 17th June 2021
The idea for the business was born in Australia – and it could end up going full circle.
Jimmy’s Iced Coffee, created by Co-Founder Jim Cregan after he got hooked on iced coffee during a visit to Australia, was among the food and drink products in a bespoke hamper presented to Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison.
The Christchurch-based company was given the opportunity to break into the Australian market at an event attended by both the Australian PM and Boris Johnson.
It aimed to showcase well-known, high quality Great British food and drink brands that are set to benefit from a free trade agreement with Australia.
The broad terms of the agreement were approved on June 14.
The hamper was put together as part of the Great British Food Programme.
The initiative is being delivered by Business West to support UK food and drink producers to engage with international buyers across the world with events, workshops and an online directory.
Since November 2019, The Great British Food Programme has successfully shipped 68 Great British Food boxes to a host of trusted buyers around the globe; containing products from 246 UK food and drink producers.
Jim, pictured left, said: “The Great British Food Programme has helped Jimmy’s Iced Coffee identify new markets to export product to.
“I have learned that unless you get yourself out there, you won’t have a chance to succeed at all.
“It’s this reason that I’d recommend them as they provide the best platform to succeed.”
James Monk, Director of Commercial Services at Business West said: “UK food and drink companies are recognised for their quality across the world.
“The Great British Food Programme is a way for these businesses to showcase their products to overseas customers.
“The total value of goods exported from the South West to Australia in 2020 amounted to £238m, accounting for 5.9 per cent of total exports to the market, showing the strong existing demand.
“We will be working with businesses to help grow exports even further.
“I would encourage food and drink firms, big and small, to sign up to the Great British Food Programme to help them grow their international business in a lucrative market.”
