Absolutely Caribbean steals the show at speciality and fine food fair

By JoEllen Laryea

LONDON, England – Caribbean Export supported ten food and drink producers to participate at the Speciality and Fine Food Fair at the Olympia London, UK.  The group of Caribbean firms showcased under a highly visible Absolutely Caribbean pavilion that drew the attention of chefs, trade buyers, press and, bloggers.

At the end of a busy first day of the show, participating companies had nothing but praise for their first in-person trade show since the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Great first day at the Specialty & Fine Food Fair with an exceptional reception of our brand and products. The market has definitely acquired a taste for some Hauntingly Flavourful Old Duppy” shared Nick Bynoe from Old Duppy Barbados.

Hesma Tyson, from CariBelle Foods echoed this sentiment stating “Great first day. So much positive feedback on our products. This market is not shy from sampling spicy food.  Glad for this opportunity.”

Tyson’s Lime & Mango Dip will also feature in the cooking demonstrations led by top consultant chef Steve Walpole.

Caribbean Export in collaboration with the European Union has been supporting the development of these firms over the past 12 months to prepare for new markets, working with food and drinks retail experts Category Wins.

Lead expert David Marston shared: “A truly spectacular day at a fantastic show, and also a fantastic diversity of opportunities for the finest food and drink producers from the Caribbean; excited to see what day 2 brings and to share some of the Absolutely Caribbean produce with new buyers and organisations”.

Having released an updated edition of the report Unlocking the Profit Potential of the Caribbean, more and more trade buyers have sought out Caribbean producers in order to meet the increasing demand being experienced as consumers continue to explore new flavors from the Caribbean.

The ten companies included: Naledo (Belize), Superb Blend (Barbados), Old Duppy (Barbados), Flauriel (St Kitts and Nevis), Pringa’s (St Vincent and the Grenadines), Shavuot (Jamaica), St Lucia Distillers (St Lucia), Kalembu (The Dominican Republic), the Antillia Brewing Company (St Lucia), and CariBelle Foods (Trinidad and Tobago).