Priestley’s Gourmet Delights is one of Australia’s family-owned business success stories and we talk to Keith “Irish” Taylor, their National Sales and Marketing Manager, about what’s in store for 2022.

Australia’s lockdown had everyone seeking the simple pleasures of life with many people adding a delicious, sweet treat to their morning coffee just to get them through the day. Throughout this time, Priestley’s Gourmet Delights was busy baking and delivering to their customer base and extending their distribution network.

A major focus for the business in the early days of the pandemic was looking after their people, and the urgent need to survive, fostered an even stronger team culture. While every part of the business was affected, management and the broader team rallied together to make sacrifices to ensure long term gains.

“The business knew that we would eventually emerge from the crisis, so retaining and looking after our people was paramount,” said Irish. “People are our biggest asset and now as we come out of the crisis, it’s clear that when you look after your people, they look after you,” he said.

Ahead of the curve

 

Product innovation is normally a 6 – 18 month journey however, Priestley’s Gourmet Delights fast-tracked this process into six weeks when a convenience store opportunity was presented. “The team developed an exciting range to accompany a coffee-plus offer for a convenience business looking to take a high-quality offer to market,” said Taylor. “There was no doubt that we could develop something though it was the ‘and’ part of our team’s response that truly built the convenience range into what it is today”.

Priestley’s Gourmet Delights brought their entire team together to brainstorm ideas to gain new business success. “We analysed customer data, which revealed thousands of potential customers where we could add value to their menus and increase spend per head,” said Taylor. “Pizza restaurants were very receptive, and we had many great success stories of how we were able to add value to their businesses during this challenging time for all.” he said.

While Priestley’s Gourmet Delights will remain aligned to premium retailers, the business also gained more high-end independent grocery distribution with outlets such as Drakes, Ritches and IGA all coming on board.

More to come at Fine Food 2022

 

Irish said the whole business is looking forward to Fine Food 2022 in Melbourne and will show up with their new brand look and feel, discuss industry trends and innovations plus launch exciting new products. “Even though we’ve spoken to hundreds of new customers in the past two years, nothing beats face-to-face discussions,” said Taylor.

“When you’re exhibiting at Fine Food, it’s those important impromptu meetings that are so valuable. Whether it’s re-connecting with our passionate customers or forming new relationships whilst educating customers about our wonderful Australian owned and family operated brand.”

Among the new products being launched at Fine Food are individual Lemon Meringue Tarts and Premium Choc Orange Slice that not only taste amazing, but they are truly a visual delight!

Priestley’s Gourmet Delights are at the forefront of consumer and industry trends, bringing you the latest innovation and working with you to delight your customers with their premium dessert and savoury offers. With more new products being developed for Fine Food 2022 – the Priestley’s Gourmet Delights stand, should not be missed!

Connect with Priestley’s Gourmet to view a sneak peak of what will be on offer at Fine Food 2022:

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