Blackpool exporter shines in the Gulf with demand for Vitamin D

A Blackpool food supplements company has seen its exports soar, especially for Vitamin D produced naturally in the skin by sunshine - in one of the sunniest areas of the world.
By Tim Gavell
Published 19th Feb 2020, 16:45 BST
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Private Label Nutrition, based at Amy Johnson Way on the airport enterprise zone has seen a 75 per cent uplift in overseas sales over the last 12 months.

It said with people around the world becoming increasingly health conscious, businesses across the UK are experiencing a growing global demand for premium, British-made sports and health supplements.

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It has seen exports to the six countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) soaring due to a demand for vitamin D in the sun-drenched region.

Private Label Nutrition directors, James Wilson and Richard Richmond at their premises in BlackpoolPrivate Label Nutrition directors, James Wilson and Richard Richmond at their premises in Blackpool
Private Label Nutrition directors, James Wilson and Richard Richmond at their premises in Blackpool

And it has secured two new contract wins in the UAE with support from the Department for International Trade (DIT) after attending a trade show in Dubai to further capitalise on their share of the market.

James Wilson, director at Private Label Nutrition said: “The Middle East is our biggest growth market and in the last 12 months we have seen a 35 per cent increase in exports to the GCC.

“Paradoxically, despite the intense sunshine in the region, we have seen a growing demand for our Vitamin D supplements, especially in the UAE.

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“Deficiencies of the ‘sunshine vitamin’ are widespread among the population due to the high temperatures limiting time spent outdoors.

Food supplements firm Private Label Nutrition is finding success exporting Vitamin D supplements to the GulfFood supplements firm Private Label Nutrition is finding success exporting Vitamin D supplements to the Gulf
Food supplements firm Private Label Nutrition is finding success exporting Vitamin D supplements to the Gulf

“As a small business with limited exporting experience, DIT have given us the confidence and knowledge that we need to succeed in these growing markets.”

The UAE is the UK’s largest trading partner in the region and as Dubai prepares to welcome 190 nations to Expo 2020 Dubai in October, this year presents opportunities for both the UAE and UK to strengthen trade relations.

Paul Stowers, Head of Trade in the North West, said: “It is great to see innovative British companies like Private Label Nutrition exporting to dynamic international markets.

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“Success stories such as these illustrate just how profitable exporting can be, with overseas consumers increasingly looking for British products and premium quality brands.

"I would urge other businesses looking to export to call your local DIT office so that we can support your business on its exporting journey.”

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