Woolies picks up NZ ice cream

LIP SMACKING GOOD: Kiwi firm Emerald Foods has struck a deal to sell its ice cream range in Woolworths Australia.

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Auckland entrepreneur Diane Foreman's company Emerald Foods has nailed a contract with Woolworths in Australia for its ice cream range.

The company, 100 percent owned by Foreman, has negotiated full distribution listing for six varieties including the hugely popular Chocolate Ecstasy, Classic Vanilla, Cookies and Cream, White Chocolate and Raspberry, Macadamia and Fruits of the Forest frozen yoghurt.

Managing director Shane Lamont says with more than 800 stores throughout Australia it is a significant deal.

"It is great news to be partnering with such a recognisable brand and provides us with leverage for further expansion."

Foreman, a former vice-chair of the Business Roundatable, says the expansion of Emerald Foods is global with a new full service New Zealand Natural Café model opening in China this month and adding to the existing and rapidly growing presence in supermarkets in California and Japan.

"Every day there are five new places around the world that sell ice cream made at my Emerald Foods factory in East Tamaki, Auckland. Our products are made of 100 percent New Zealand dairy ingredients, something I am very proud of."

Currently Emerald Foods sell ice cream through the Gelson network of supermarkets predominantly in California and are now listed with Ralph's also in California and Aeon supermarkets in Japan.

 "The distribution through supermarkets is very exciting and we have only just scratched the surface. The next 12 months are going to be huge."

Foreman will soon travel to Monte Carlo to be inducted into the Entrepreneur Hall of Fame and represent New Zealand at the Ernst & Young World Entrepreneur of the Year Awards.

She won the title in October last year.

The group  produces a range of ice cream products under the following brands, many of which are exported, New Zealand Natural, Movenpick, Killinchy Gold, Heavenly Treats,  Zilch, Chateau Ice Cream and Lite Licks.

Every nine days New Zealand Natural, a global franchise network, opens an outlet somewhere in the world.

- © Fairfax NZ News