Macsween of Edinburgh, the leading Scottish food brand, is celebrating another record year taking haggis into new products, new recipes and new shops North and South of the Border.
The company has seen a 25% increase in sales of its family of products in the build up to Burns Night, bolstering a total annual sales increase of 20% in 2009. This growth has been particularly marked in England, where consumers have recognised the year round value of traditional and vegetarian haggis as a tasty and cost effective ingredient or dish in its own right.
Macsween continues to innovate and in October 2009 unveiled its 1-minute haggis, a microwaveable version of its award-winning traditional product. This is being rolled out through the major supermarkets and independents across the UK over the next three months. Initial indications are that sales of the 1-minute product are matching the popular Macsween vegetarian haggis, which accounts for 25% of total sales. Ultimately, it will be available as widely as the Macsween traditional and vegetarian products that are listed in all of the major supermarkets and a wide range of independent stores throughout the UK.
Jo Macsween, Director of Macsween said:
"Not only are pre-Burns orders up, but we have continued to grow our sales throughout the year, as UK consumers recognise that haggis is a tasty, cost-effective ingredient. January 25th remains a landmark of
course, and our family of products will cater for all shapes and sizes of Burns Night celebration from highly traditional to a relaxed supper with friends."
The Macsween 1-minute haggis continues a tradition of innovation, from opening the first dedicated haggis factory to creating the world's first commercial vegetarian haggis in 1984. In 2009, the company has been recognised by its peers and independent observers with Scotland Food and Drink, Great Taste, Vegetarian Society and Green Business Awards. The company has also just published its second corporate sustainability report.
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MACSWEEN
Macsween of Edinburgh has been at the forefront of haggis production for more than 50 years. Macsween's traditional (meat) and vegetarian haggis is listed in major multiples, independent retailers and eateries all over the UK. In 2009, the company celebrated the 25th anniversary of its award winning vegetarian haggis and launched its microwaveable 1-minute haggis.
The company is run by Jo and James Macsween, the third generation of the family to do so. They continue to win awards for the quality of the product, the management and sustainability across the business.