Mulling Spices for Large Batches: How to Make Mulled Drinks at Scale
How Christmas markets, caterers, pubs and drinks producers use Mulling Spices Spice Drops to make large batches of mulled wine, cider and juice, with dosing for 1 to 100 litres.
Our Experience of Ocado's Britain's Next Top Supplier Competition
Read all about our experience of applying to Ocado’s Britain’s Next Top Supplier competition!
In short: Holy Lama took part in Ocado's Britain's Next Top Supplier competition, which helps small producers with distinctive products. We reached the finals and pitched to buyers and judges including Sir Stuart Rose, Tom Kerridge and Jason Gissing. This post, kept as part of our history, shares what we learned for other small food businesses.
How did Holy Lama enter the competition?
A friend heard about the competition at a dinner party and urged us to apply. The questions suited a small business with a distinctive, ethically produced product like Spice Drops.
What happened?
We were not the overall winner, but we reached the finals and Spice Drops were listed on Ocado at the time. On finals day we had valuable feedback from experienced business leaders and chefs, and Ocado's social media and PR support helped introduce us to food writers and new customers.
What did we learn?
- Preparing the application forces you to sharpen your message and set clear goals.
- Pitching to experienced buyers is excellent practice.
- A retailer listing can build credibility with new customers.
If your product suits an online grocer, competitions like this are well worth entering.
Where can you buy Spice Drops today?
Online in our Spice Drops collection, and for businesses through our Trade page.
Frequently asked questions
What is Britain's Next Top Supplier?
An Ocado competition for small producers with distinctive products.
Where are Spice Drops made?
At our own factory in Kerala, India, by a family business that dates back to 1946.
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