Gü founder James Averdieck has bought a controlling interest in coconut-based ice cream brand Bessant & Drury, which launched the UK's first coconut milk ice cream two years ago.
Averdieck's acquisition comes three years after he sold his chocolate pudding company Gü, and, with a lactose-intolerant daughter, the entrepreneur saw potential in Bessant & Drury's dairy-free ice cream product, which is made with coconut milk.
The range, which is now stocked in Tesco, Waitrose, Whole Foods, is also free from gluten, soya and cholesterol, with no artificial additives, preservatives or colourings.
Averdieck is expected to take on a hands-on commercial role, working with founders Steve Bessant and Ian Drury on the product.
“Bessant & Drury is one of the most innovative young brands that I’ve seen in recent years and the products are not only really healthy but taste great", Averdieck said.
“The best ideas come from small entrepreneurial businesses and I’ve come on board to work with the founders, Ian and Steve, to accelerate the brand's growth.” (2 July)
© 2013 - ESM: European Supermarket Magazine by Ellen Lunney
