Online retailer Ocado has re-launched its nationwide campaign to find ‘Britain’s Next Top Supplier’ with winners to receive a listing as well as a £20,000 marketing package.
Now in its third year, the competition is open to small food and drink producers with a product that is not currently listed at Asda, Waitrose, Morrisons, Tesco or Sainsbury’s.
It is aimed at producers who want to grow their business but need support in getting in front of a major retailer.
Ocado head of buying and competition judge Rose Price said: “The winning product will have great customer appeal and offer them something they can't find anywhere else, but it isn’t just about having a brilliant product. I’ll also be looking for a passionate supplier with some entrepreneurial flair and the willingness to work with us to make our partnership a success.”
Previous winner Hannah Rhodes of Hiver Beer has since been able to expand from a small scale start-up, into a successful business, with sales growing five times faster than the rest of Ocado’s beer category in 2016.
Ocado chairman Stuart Rose said: “Britain’s Next Top Supplier aims to uncover the latest and greatest food or drink innovations the country has to offer.
“There are some truly fantastic producers in the UK and this competition could change their lives overnight, as winning would give even the smallest business the opportunity to distribute their product to Ocado customers across the nation.”
Interersted suppliers should visit supplyocado.com/bnts for more information. The competition closes on 17 April.
