Uncle Joe’s secures Holland & Barrett listing

HISTORIC Wigan confectionery brand Uncle Joe’s has placed its sweets in Holland and Barrett healthfood shops throughout the country.

Privately-held William Santus Ltd has been making mint balls by hand for more than 110 years. The sweets will now be sold in 550 Holland and Barrett stores.

The company said it is the first time that Uncle Joe’s has secured such a distribution deal with a healthfood chain.

Sales and marketing manager Anita Taulty said: “It gives us national presence in an environment which plays well to the natural qualities of the mint balls and is perfect target audience.

“We are excited about the potential and are in discussions about supplying other products in time.”

Holland and Barrett’s head of food, Stephen Cook, said: “It is a product with great heritage – certainly in the North. We know they want to introduce new consumers to the brand nationally and we are well placed to do that. Our credentials – over 90 years of health food retailing – will provide a trusted platform for trial and sales growth.”