This week’s product news includes the launch of a new lager, supersized ready meals and an award winning whisky. Read on for the top product news from the FMCG sector this week.
Furphy launches second beer
Brewer Furphy has rolled out its second beer, Furphy Crisp Lager, a full strength (4.5% ABV) liquor in a clear glass version of the iconic stubby.
“In developing a lager from Furphy we wanted to make sure that it had the great quality and brewing credentials the brand is known for, whilst still being super refreshing. We think we’ve created a cracking lager – it’s light, crisp and offers the ultimate refreshment,” Little Creatures Geelong head brewer Warren Pawsey, said.
Lion’s craft and premium brand director, Malcolm Eadie, said consumers were calling for something “really crisp and easy-drinking” from Furphy.
“They talked to us about making a lager that would be perfect for occasions when they are getting together with their mates in the pub or at a BBQ,” Eadie said of the decision to bring the latest product to market.
Furphy Crisp Lager is available in bottle shops across Victoria for RRP A$17 for a 375mL 6-pack.
Whittaker’s Chocolate expands to 800 Coles stores
NZ chocolate Whittaker’s has rolled out its popular Jelly Tip and Dark Almond blocks as part of its range in 800 supermarket stores.
From mid-May to early June, Whittaker’s will have its chocolates fully stocked in Coles. There will be seven of its most popular blocks on shelves and the 100g Artisan Collection flavours will still continue to sell in Coles’ NZ bays.
“We’re actively engaged with our Australia-based Whittaker’s Chocolate Lovers through our social media channels. They’re always asking us for more flavours and more availability in Australia, and we’re delighted to have this opportunity to deliver this through this expanded partnership with Coles, alongside our other existing retail stockists and distributors,” Whittaker’s co-chief operating officer, Matt Whittaker, said.
The chocolate brand’s ambassador, Nigella Lawson, will be featured in digital campaigns in Australia.
“We’re thrilled to have Nigella working with us in Australia this year, she is one of the best-loved chefs in the world and is a genuine Whittaker’s Chocolate Lover,” added Whittaker.
Whittaker’s Chocolate is also sold in Woolworths and Big W stores as well as independent retailers across Australia.
Youfoodz unveils Large Meals range
Ready meal brand Youfoodz has cooked up a range of Large Meals for consumers staying at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. The 14 new meals offer a bigger serve of its fresh meals with high-protein options included.
The Large Size meals such as Chargrilled Chicken with Chipotle Mayo and YF Pad Thai, Korean BBQ Beef Noodles are sold for A$10.95 while the regular size are sold for A$9.95.
They are available now online and in-store at various locations.
Loch Lomond 12 Year Old wins at San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Whisky brand Loch Lomond 12 Year Old has bagged the Platinum award San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The Loch Lomond 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is sold exclusively at Liquorland, First Choice Liquor and Vintage Cellars for A$75 a bottle.
“We are extremely proud to have received a Platinum award for Loch Lomond 12 Year Old, such a central expression in our Loch Lomond Whisky range. It’s a real testament to the skill of the team, headed up by our master distiller Michael Henry, who work so hard to ensure that our range consistently delivers whiskies of the very highest quality,” Loch Lomond chief marketing officer John Grieveson said.
It is the third consecutive Double Gold medal the whisky has won and earned Loch Lomond a Platinum honour. It also bagged the Double Gold award for the Loch Lomond 18 Year Old Single Malt and Silver award for Loch Lomond Original Single Malt.
“We congratulate the team at Loch Lomond for creating this world-beating whisky at a fraction of the price of its competitors, and we’re thrilled to be ranging it exclusively in Australia,” Coles Liquor general manager of merchandise Brad Gorman said.
Milo recruits radio DJs to settle debate
Confectionery giant Nestlé has launched a campaign in collaboration with radio duo, Fitzy and Wippa, to ask Aussies “How do you prefer your Milo, hot or cold?”
The debate is being settled on social media with fans asked to vote via polls on the Milo’s Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
“Milo has been an iconic part of Australian life for generations, and we know many Aussies feel strongly about the best way to have their MILO. Some people love [it] with hot milk for a smoother drink, while others prefer theirs made with cold milk to get the crunchy bits on top,” Nestlé dairy business manager Anna Stewart said.
She added that she hopes Aussies can “band together over their love of Milo”.
