Free-form
Australian candy start-up rides pandemic wave
Online sales have also soared, doubling month to month, thanks to a fanbase of loyal repeat customers, says founder Daniel Kitay.
When he launched the company, Kitay says he had no idea Australia had a long lockdown ahead - but the timing was ripe for his ‘clean candy’ company, which creates nostalgic, natural lollies, including a version of Australia’s iconic red frogs without, he says, “any of the nasties”.
According to market research, the pandemic has changed how we snack; snacking has increased for up to 42% of consumers, who are looking for healthier choices and sugar free options.
It’s not only about what we eat but how we access it. Online sales of confectionary is forecast to exceed $15bn by 2027. A big factor is busy professionals, who usually have a hectic lifestyle, and find it very convenient and easy to purchase from online stores.
“It’s amazing to see our range sell out in such big Australia retailers,” says Kitay. “It’s our online sales that have really taken us by surprise. It’s why we introduced a subscription model, where a top-up of sweets are delivered on your schedule. We have so many repeat customers who love the convenience — that’s a real growth area for us.”
The Australian-based company has already expanded into Singapore and Hong Kong and is planning to launch into the US and Europe.
“It's been a crazy year for everyone,” says Kitay. “There’s no doubt the pandemic has impacted the confectionary market — we’re just happy that tastes have changed in our favour. “
