First export order for UK sauce maker

A sauce manufacturer has won its first ever international order thanks to UKTI's scheme for novice exporters.

Manchester-based company Sweet Mandarin secured a deal with Russian retailer Azbuka Vkusa after founder Lisa Tse was introduced to the scheme by business minister Michael Fallon.

Ms Tse then got in touch with UKTI’s North West food and drink consultant Carol Wilson, who helped her develop an export strategy and recommended the SIAL trade show in Paris as a place to make contact with potential business partners.

Sweet Mandarin attended the show and within a couple of days signed the deal with Azbuka Vkusa. 

Lisa Tse said: “I am the fourth generation of sauce maker in my family and this is the first time we have ever exported our product, let alone realise it would be a hit in Russia.

“I hope with the UKTI’s help, I can increase the worldwide exports to 50% of total sales of our sauces.”

Michael Fallon said: “UK Trade & Investment has a crucial role to play and we are pursuing an ambitious programme to double the number of businesses we help by 2015.

“We are working in new markets and with new exporters from across Britain to make sure they have every opportunity to realise their potential.”

© Press Association 2013