Food from Britain strengthens Canadian operation

Food from Britain (FFB), the international market development network for British food and drink producers, has announced the appointment of Doug Robertson, former head of sales at leading Canadian distributor SunOpta, to head its Canadian operation as Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Food from Britain North America (FFBNA) / Canadian Office.

Doug, who will take up his new role on 1 October 2007, brings over 30 years of experience in the Canadian consumer goods industry to FFBNA.  His background includes manufacturer, broker and distributor representation, including roles in Kraft Foods, Lindt Chocolate, the SunOpta Food Distribution Group. He has had direct involvement with retail chain and independent grocery, drug, mass, club and department store channels throughout Canada over the years. 

In his new position Doug will be responsible for the Canadian operation of Food from Britain North America.  He will further develop the consulting role with UK food manufacturers, working alongside the Canadian Importer-Distributor network in Canada, with the view to co-managing the brands, seeking opportunities to  help drive their commercial growth, on behalf of the manufacturers. Doug will continue to have the support of Ross Southwell (FFB – Canada) and the FFB North America office based in the New York area.

Simon Waring, Marketing & International Management Director at FFB, commented: “I am delighted to welcome Doug to the FFB team. Following the appointment of David Wilson as Managing Director of FFB North America we decided we wanted to expand our capability in Canada to enhance our level of service to clients.  Doug’s experience with companies large and small will be a great asset and will make a real difference in helping exporters either enter the market or further grow profitable business.”

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Notes for editors
1. Food from Britain (FFB), the international market development network, which works in over 30 markets, helps some 700 British food and drink companies each year to build their international business.  For further information visit: www.foodfrombritain.com.

2. Food from Britain North America (FFBNA) is a part of the Food from Britain international network.  FFBNA specializes in consulting with and introducing UK food and beverage manufacturers to the American and Canadian marketplace with practical and cost-effective solutions that create commercial value.

28 September 2007