Sweet increase

DESPITE falling sales in sweet biscuits two Scottish manufacturers are reporting strong performances.

Border Biscuits is reporting year-on-year growth of 13% for 2014 and Lees of Scotland says sales of its range were up by 21.5%.

Border Biscuits choc gingers supplied April 15 PCG new Dec 11

Brand and sales manager at Border Lesley Ann Gray said: “Our sales in Scotland are strong, growing 7.8% in 2014 versus 2013.

“This is above category performance, which shows the total sweet biscuit category is in decline of 3.5%.

“We have recently entered the top 20 Scottish brands for the first time, jumping seven places to get there, and we are currently the third-fastest growing sweet biscuit brand in the top 20.”

Bert Croll, sales director at Lees, said: “This increase in sales is largely due to our products having perceived value for money, in particular the family favourite multipacks of Lees Teacakes and Snowballs.

Lees Group Shot 2

“Provenance is a key trend driving the category and one that will continue to gain momentum.

“Consumers are increasingly placing greater importance on home grown brands.

“Retailers can capitalise on this by grouping together Scottish products in a display that will draw consumers in,” he said.