PEPPUP targets new growth for popular sauces in Irish Republic

PEPPUP, Northern Ireland’s award winning producer of authentic Italian sauces is to strengthen its presence in the Republic of Ireland through a new distribution agreement.

Based at Newtownards in county Down, PEPPUP has just signed a deal for two of its Bolognese sauces with SoulBia, a leading retailer and wholesale operation.

PEPPUP won the listing with SoulBia following a pitch and sampling of its products. SoulBia, which is based near Newry on the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic, subsequently listed PEPPUP’s Chilli Bolognese and Basil Bolognese, both in 480g jars.

PEPPUP founder and managing director Dr Luca Montorio, a nutritionist originally from Turin and now resident in Northern Ireland,” says: “I was delighted with the SoulBia listing because of this company’s approach to business which is focused on premium artisan products. Furthermore, SoulBia has an extensive network of business contacts in the Republic, a market I am keen to grow my business and overall profile there.

“SoulBia has also been attracted by the features of the sauces which are suitable for vegans and are free from dairy and fat and have no added sugar,” he adds.

As well as a shop packed with quality artisan food products, SoulBia operates a successful wholesale business for retailers, cafes, farm shops, delis, health food shops and independent grocery stores throughout the UK and Ireland especially those seeking vegan and free from foods.

PEPPUP was formed by Dr Montorio and wife Liz in 2014. The initial products were ketchup and pasta sauce, which are now on sale in the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

The original products, featuring roasted tomatoes and peppers, are based on original recipes developed by Luca and influenced by his upbringing in Turin, where his parents still live.

PEPPUP’s initial products are selling successfully in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland through distributors and major retailers.

Dr Montorio has developed the unique recipes for his portfolio of authentic Italian sauces which have won multiple UK Great Taste Awards and Free From Ireland awards.