MERCHANT GOURMET APPOINTS EXPERIENCED BRAND MANAGER

Food brand Merchant Gourmet has appointed Erin McNamara as Brand Manager. Erin, brings a wealth of brand management experience having worked for a number of food manufacturers and retailers including Upper Crust, Nestlé and Birdseye. Erin will be responsible for developing strategy, annual planning and activities for Merchant Gourmet and Merchant Gourmet Chef as the business builds on its recent sales successes. Commenting on her appointment, Erin said: “I am delighted to join the team here at Merchant Gourmet. Over the past 18 months, the brand has attracted more and more customers with targeted marketing campaigns and the launch of new ready-to-eat lines. The scope for product development and customer development makes it a truly exciting time to come on board”. Head of Marketing and Product Development , Colin Hopkins said: “Merchant Gourmet sales have grown 22% YOY. With Erin’s vast FMCG experience and insight, we can continue to focus on growing our brand and sales while developing our products to their maximum potential”. Ends. 18th August 2010 Issued on behalf of Merchant Gourmet by Public. For further information please contact Rebecca Mann (01302 730 303 or 07743417093) and Kirsten Howells (01302 730303). Notes to Editors: • About Merchant Gourmet Merchant Gourmet was started by Mark Leatham in 1985, sparked by his passion for quality ingredients that will make all the difference to any meal. Today, the brand supplies over 40 products to supermarkets up and down the country, from Porcini Mushrooms to Roquito® Peppers, all of which meet the company’s criteria for ease of use and outstanding taste. Details for all of these products, exclusive recipes and further information about Merchant Gourmet can be found at www.merchant-gourmet.com.