News: Unilever UK appoints supply specialist

Unilever UK has appointed Asian Sourcing Link to supply all promotional goods for the UK business, managing its spend across the foods and personal care division.

ASL, which won the contract after a competitive tender, will work closely with the Unilever team to source all promotional goods, including off-the-shelf items, bespoke items, holidays and vouchers.

The agreement is aimed at “enabling a more cohesive and cost-effective supply management system for the business”, using ASL’s existing network of suppliers and management systems. It covers the foods and personal care brands, which include Flora, Marmite, Hellmann’s, Bertolli, Knorr, PG Tips, Peperama and Pot Noodle.

ASL has over 20 years’ experience in the promotional goods sector and has worked with blue-chip companies including BIC, Coca-Cola and the global sponsors of the 2006 FIFA World Cup. With its global headquarters in Hong Kong, it has over 100 people in the Far East managing production for major brand names around the world.

Rachel Bristow, marketing services director at Unilever UK, said: “We were looking for a partner with a proven track record and reputation in the industry and with the resources, experience and network to help us deliver our vision over time. We believe that ASL can provide all of this, and much more, and we look forward to working with them and developing our working relationship over the next few years.”

Alec Pettigrew, chief executive of Asian Sourcing Link (former owner of Marlow International), said: “We are delighted to have been appointed and are confident that our team’s 20 years’ experience and access to the best global contacts will provide Unilever UK with the perfect solution..”