Mackie’s announces £1m China deal

Ice cream and chocolate maker Mackie’s of Scotland has struck a landmark £1 million export deal with a Chinese distributor, according to reports.

Mackie’s hailed the deal with Aura as a “major breakthrough in one of the world’s most competitive and complex retail markets” in a statement to trade publication The Grocer, which broke the news.

Angus Hayhow, head of marketing and export manager at Mackie’s of Scotland, added: “China is a complex market, but one with enormous potential. This partnership gives us a strong platform to grow from and demonstrates the appetite for high-quality, premium ice cream in global markets.”

The single largest order in the Scottish company’s history will see Mackie’s products stocked in Chinese retailers as well as the opening of Mackie’s scooping parlours in China.

Mr Hayhow said: “Our approach has always been about building steady, sustainable growth rather than chasing short-term wins. Each new market brings its own challenges, but also opportunities to learn and improve.

“What’s encouraging is that the same core qualities: high cream content, freshness, quality and simplicity, resonate with customers wherever we go.”