FDBusiness.com

A COMPANY in Co Down which distributes healthy foods has announced new partners for sending a sought-after brand around Ireland.

Advanced Marketing NI, which is based in Lisburn, has joined forces with Capital Transport and Shipping and Castlecool to transport Benecol products from several European countries, to be distributed in Ireland, north and south.

Advanced Marketing said the deal was worth €3.6m (£2.9m) and would “generate and secure” seven jobs.

Benecol, one of the top 20 of Irish household grocery brands, is a range of yogurts, spreads and dairy-free drinks containing a patented ingredient which lowers cholesterol.

Drew McIvor, national accounts manager with Advanced Marketing NI Ltd, said: “We have selected Capital Transport and Shipping Ltd and Castlecool Ltd as our partners because of their excellent credentials and track record in providing committed and top-class service which will support our growth plans for the Benecol brand on the island of Ireland.”

Eugene Maher, director of Capital Transport and Shipping, said: “This is a significant contract, delivering a robust chilled service for one of the top 20 brands to the retail trade.”

He said Capital would collect the Benecol products from Switzerland, France and Belgium, before bringing them to Castecool distribution centre in Co Monaghan.

Advanced Marketing was set up in 1994 to provide food brand owners with a route into the €8bn (£6.5bn) Irish grocery market. It covers retail, wholesale, cash and carry, independent and pharmaceutical trade channels. Major brands include Nando’s Sauces, Pizza Express and Amy’s Kitchen.