The retailer, which already exports own label products - ranging from Duchy Originals from Waitrose to Essential Waitrose - to 50 countries worldwide, is now set to export branded products from small UK businesses who share its commitment to high quality foods.

Among companies working with Waitrose are brands such as Cornish Sea Salt, Doves Farm Organic, along with smaller premium producers like the Windsor and Eton Brewery and Pooch and Mutt Petfood.

David Morton, Waitrose Director of Business to Business, said: 'Our own label exports are now an established part of our business - with markets ranging from Chile to South Africa.

'However, there's also a significant appetite from retailers overseas for the premium British brands and niche brands from smaller producers that we sell in our UK shops - and we're developing our export business in response to that demand.'

In the last financial year Waitrose saw a 30 per cent uplift in its export business, which is focused on supplying premium supermarkets and department stores across the globe.

Success stories include a deal with Unimarc supermarkets in Chile, where products such as essential Waitrose Mayonnaise have generated a phenomenal demand.

In Japan, typically British products, such as Duchy Originals from Waitrose Jam and biscuits are among its best sellers, while in South Africa, one of the business's newest markets, customers are snapping up Waitrose prawn crackers and poppodums.

Notes to Editors

Waitrose first started to export its products in 1996 and now has a presence in 50 countries worldwide, including, USA, Canada, Chile, Australia, Cyprus, France, New Zealand, Falkland Islands, Singapore and Hong Kong. It operates five branches in the Channel Islands and has seven shops in the Middle East in partnership with Fine Fare Food Market LLC.

Waitrose currently has 319 Waitrose shops in England, Scotland, Wales and the Channel Islands. Its recent strong performance has been driven by the success of the essential Waitrose range and its myWaitrose card, its partnership with Heston Blumenthal and unmatchable top tier of products including the 'Duchy Originals From Waitrose' range. Waitrose combines the convenience of a supermarket with the expertise and service of a specialist shop - dedicated to offering quality food that has been responsibly sourced, combined with high standards of customer service.

Enquiries

For further information please contact:

Gill Smith
Senior Manager, Corporate PR, Waitrose
Telephone: 01344 825165
Email: gill_smith@waitrose.co.uk

Rob Cadwell
Senior Press Officer, Waitrose
Telephone: 01344 826182
Email: rob_cadwell@waitrose.co.uk