Savant Distribution, the UK importer of Udo’s Choice, says it is pulling its brands out of Holland & Barrett to focus attention on business with independent health food stores.
As well as Udo’s Choice, Savant brands include Cleanmarine Krill Oil, Health Elmenents, Manuka Health MGO Honey.
Sales director, Ben Butler commented: “We have worked with Holland & Barrett for a number of years and the relationship has always been a challenging one because of our long term commitment to the independent trade. As we are rapidly growing the profile of Udo’s Choice and our other key brands we have had to reassess who is in the best position to sell our products. Additionally, the new owners of Savant see a close relationship with the independent trade as paramount in their business model working in a long-term partnership to build brand awareness and sales.”
David Gunning, UK marketing manager for Savant told Natural Products: “We will be working with independent stores to see how we can increase footfall at the local level for our brands and this will run alongside our already substantial national advertising and marketing campaigns.”
• Since Savant issued its press statement, Holland & Barrett has issued its own press release in which it states that it “de-listed” the Savant brands after the two companies failed to reach agreement on pricing policy.
