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A Jersey-based ice cream company has (Fin)landed a deal with a premium store in one of the world’s heaviest consumers of the sweet treat.
Despite being known for their ice-cold winters and short summer seasons, ice cream consumption per capita in Finland stands at an impressive 12 litres.
But now Minioti – a ‘healthy’ ice cream brand set up by two islanders - is set to get Finns guzzling even more of the ice cool dessert after sealing the deal with a nationwide “premium” store.
Natasha Dowse, who founded the company with Anna Bolletta, explained: “A premium store in Finland has just put in their first order so it will be sold nationwide there. Perhaps surprisingly, Finland is one of the largest consumers of ice cream in Europe despite only having a population of 5.5 million people. They eat [ice cream] all year round so it is a really good market to get into.”
Pictured: Minioti founders Natasha Dowse and Anna Bolletta.
Low in fat, probiotic and Genuine Jersey-accredited, Minioti should hold particular appeal for the health-conscious Finns, Ms Dowse said.
“They also like well-sourced good food and are very conscious of the problems that too much sugar causes. We’re just looking at the price points to make sure we get them right.”
International expansion doesn’t stop there, however. They're also set to be stocked in Genesis, an independent cinema in London, as well as the wider UK, and are snipping the last of the pre-sale red tape in China.
“We know the UK is a competitive market, but that doesn’t put us off because we have something different – there is no other premium ice cream that is made in Jersey with 100% Jersey milk and cream, so we’re in a very privileged position. We know we have something unique and a great tasting product,” Ms Bolletta commented.
Pictured: The Genuine Jersey product is low in fat and packed with probiotics.
The innovative pair, who both manage their business alongside school runs and feeding hungry young mouths, hope that their success will send a positive message to other Island mothers.
“If anyone takes anything from our story, then that’s great because we would like to see a lot more mums in business,” Ms Bolletta added.
“It isn’t easy but it is wonderful to set an example to your kids and do something that they can see you’re passionate about.
“We definitely want our children to find a profession that inspires them because it makes a huge difference in your life if you do something you enjoy. We know some people who don’t enjoy their jobs and it’s soul-destroying to hear.
“We’re lucky to love ours. It can be stressful and challenging but I wouldn’t want it any other way. The business world can be tough, but it’s never boring.”
For the full scoop on Minioti, read this month’s Connect magazine.
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