A firm which specialises in premium fudge says its sales rocket by 195% in the lead up to Christmas.

Fudge Kitchen, headquartered in Lyminge, near Folkestone, and with a production site in Canterbury, has stores across the UK.

And it is certainly the season of goodwill as sales soar and its production team doubles in size to cope with the surge in orders.

Fudge Kitchen's growth is being sustained throughout the year too, after securing a number of key international deals to distribute its handmade products in Canada, Germany and the UAE.

It has been supported by the Department for International Trade (DIT) through Trade Access Programme (TAP) funding and market advice.

With 27 employees and an annual turnover of £1.2 million, Fudge Kitchen is tapping into this global demand having recently secured a new deal with Canadian speciality food buyer Dovetale. This will see the company’s luxury confectionery sold in over 30 stores across Canada, increasing its turnover by 2.5%.

Fudge Kitchen managing director Sîan Holt said: "International sales have positively contributed to our annual turnover which has been steadily growing over the last few years, with exporting currently representing around 16% of revenue.

“Since we started selling overseas, we have made great friends all over the world. For example, our main German customer is now a fully converted fudge lover and wears his ‘Fudge Dealer’ belt buckle and Fudge Kitchen chef’s jacket with pride.

"I would encourage other businesses to consider exploring overseas markets. There is nothing to lose provided you seek advice before taking a major plunge.”

In the UK, the company’s fudge can be found everywhere from Harrods, Harvey Nichols and Selfridges through to high end hotels and hospitality outlets.

Ben Raby, head of region for the south east at the DIT said: "Christmas is a really busy time of year for businesses across the UK and it is great to see Fudge Kitchen tap into the global demand for British food and drink to sustain its growth year-round.

“We are looking forward to seeing what the future holds for the company as it seeks to expand its sales to the Middle East and North America in the New Year with DIT’s support."

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