Waitrose is exporting to China for the first time as of today, 18 April, after reaching an agreement to sell products online through the Royal Mail store on Tmall Global, operated by Alibaba Group.
This marks the first time a UK supermarket has exported to a country via a website platform only, and will give Chinese consumers access to private label ranges like Waitrose Duchy Organic, Waitrose Baby and later this year, essential Waitrose and Waitrose 1.
The retailer says it predicts that exports to China could become its biggest international business in the next three to five years.
Waitrose commercial director, Mark Williamson, commented, "The potential for Waitrose in China is huge and although it’s a relatively modest start it’s our ambition to see it become our biggest international business in the next three to five years.
"We are proud that Waitrose is recognised around the world for quality, and excited to be reaching new markets."
Amee Chande, managing director, UK/Ireland & Nordics, from Alibaba Group, added, "Chinese consumers seek out high-quality British brands, and Alibaba is happy to provide the platform for Waitrose to introduce its products to China’s homes and kitchens.
"Waitrose joins a number of leading British brands already available through the Royal Mail Store on Tmall Global, and we hope that many others will follow given the potential that China offers to their business and the demand that exists for British products."
© 2016 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Jenny Whelan. To subscribe to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine, click here.
