LoveRaw, the plant-based chocolate brand, is set to launch into SPAR stores internationally after being enrolled into the retailer’s Challenger Brand programme.
Spar is the world’s largest food retailer, with almost 14,000 stores in 48 countries and more than 14.7 million customers served daily. Through the programme, Spar will help LoveRaw gain access to new regions, facilitating the company’s overseas growth.
Other challenger brands in the programme include Oatly and ethical chocolate producer Tony’s Chocoloney. To qualify, companies must meet strict criteria such as being a disruptor in your home market, strong marketing presence and knowledge of how to localise in various markets.
LoveRaw has worked hard to meet the strict criteria for entrance into the programme, with the process taking 14 months.
Liam Mahoney, head of international sales at LoveRaw, says: “We are delighted to have signed a global agreement with SPAR International, the largest food retailer in the world. This is a pivotal moment for our brand and will help us to supercharge our growth – we can’t wait to get started!”
The company has disrupted the confectionary category with innovative vegan chocolate products that now compete with mainstream brands.
The announcement follows a highly successful year for LoveRaw, including the launch of a new Peanut Caramel Bar which was promoted via a major billboard campaign. In August, LoveRaw announced that two products — the Peanut Caramel Bar and Cre&m Wafer Bar Multipack — would be rolling out at over 2,800 Tesco and Co-op stores.
LoveRaw has gained popularity due to its strategy of developing plant-based versions of popular traditional chocolates, with research indicating that consumers want plant-based products that are similar to those they already buy.
