Ocean Spray International Services has recently appointed David Wingate as the new category business development manager for Australia and New Zealand.
“Ocean Spray is very excited that [Wingate] will bring his multi-market experience and leadership to expand the Ocean Spray brand into new channels, including our new snack-driven “Grab & Go” line for Craisins Dried Cranberries into Petrol & Convenience (P&C) market this August,” said Kelvin Bradnam, managing director, Ocean Spray International Services.
“[Wingate] has a depth of market experience, importantly in foods and beverages in non-grocery. We’re looking forward to [Wingate] applying his strong commercial management expertise and market understanding to accelerate our growth across Australia and New Zealand.”
Wingate previously worked in Australian and UK markets with major global manufacturers such as Unilever, Heinz and George Weston Foods across a range of senior sales and marketing management positions.
“I am excited to join Ocean Spray and grow the non-grocery business,” said Wingate. “Over a decade of experience from the United Kingdom and Australia in marketing and sales roles has taught me the value of non-grocery for driving innovation and building brands with industry partners.”
Ocean Spray’s cranberry beverage brand has Craisins Dried Cranberries and cranberry sauce ranges holding 73 per cent value share in grocery.
“Consumers are now more aware of Craisins Dried Cranberries. The product is growing at 40 per cent year-on-year and concept tests show 79 per cent of consumers intend to eat them as a snack. This makes it an exciting time to launch the new Ocean Spray ‘Grab & Go’ line for Craisins Dried Cranberries” said Wingate.
“When it comes to the P&C market, retailers and foodservice outlets expect suppliers to provide solutions for consumers changing eating trends, including on-the-go occasions and healthier snacking, which is growing at 4.7 per cent,” he added.
In August 2017, Ocean Spray will bring Craisins Dried Cranberries to the P&C market in a fit-for-purpose format for confectionery and snacking bays. Available in 85 gram packets, the range will include:
- Craisins Dried Cranberries Original
- Craisins Dried Cranberries Greek Style Yoghurt
- Craisins Dried Cranberries Milk Chocolate
- Craisins Dried Cranberries Trail Mix Fruit & Nut
