CHELSTON-based Somerdale International, exporter of British cheese to more than 50 countries around the globe, has for the first time sent a range of cheeses to the Philippines.
Somerdale’s entry into the new market will see it work with Bacchus Epicerie, The Philippines-based supplier of wines and foods to restaurants, hotels and specialist retailers.
The launch was marked by a cheese and wine tasting at the official residence of the British Ambassador in Manila attended by more than 100 guests from hotel and restaurant groups, food bloggers, local press and embassy officials.
Reaction to the cheeses being sampled was positive with many looking forward to using them in the future.
David Pardo de Ayala, general manager at Discovery Hotels and Resorts, said: “These are the most wonderful cheeses I have tasted in a very long time. I am certain that Manila will soon fall in love with your products and we look forward to working with them in our hotels and resorts.”
Di Jones, of Somerdale International, said: “We are delighted to be supplying our British cheeses to The Philippines for the first time.
“Although currently a relatively small market there is a growing demand for fine foods and wines in The Philippines and we believe that our great-tasting and distinctive cheeses will be popular, especially with upmarket restaurants and hotels.
“Looking ahead, we see South East Asia as being an important emerging market for our products and we will continue to develop relationships with key distributors in the region.”