Victorian manufacturing businesses have utilised the Global Victoria platform to grow their overseas business.
Speaking at the launch of Melbourne Gin Company’s range of gins in Bengaluru, India, Minister for Small Business, Adem Somyurek, highlighted how the drinks manufacturer, along with cosmetics manufacturer Goat Soap will allow for increased revenue.
“This deal is a significant win for Victorian businesses, Goat and the Melbourne Gin Company, as it will enable them to sell into one of the largest markets in the world.”
Melbourne Gin Company has secured an agreement with Indian hotel group, Savannaah Hotels and Resort for the distribution of its gins via Chancery brand hotel bars and local liquor stores to the $71 billion Indian alcoholic drinks market, of which gin makes up $2.5 billion.
Goat Soap will be distributed in India by local beauty retailer Health and Glow.
Melbourne Gin Company founder, Andrew Marks, highlighted how the networking opportunities provided by Global Victoria enabled the partnership to occur.
“India is a market with great potential for us. The connection made with Savannaah Hotels and Resorts at Global Victoria’s Craft Beer and Craft Spirits event in May was key to making this all happen,” said Marks.
Goat Soap Australia founder, Danielle Di Pilla, was similarly supportive of the scheme.
“Global Victoria was instrumental in making the introduction to Health and Glow India. We are thrilled this has resulted in the Goat range now being stocked through their stores in India,” said Di Pilla.
The challenge of connecting to global, overseas markets for small businesses such as Goat Soap was one that Di Pilla initially overcame by utilising e-Commerce sites such as Alibaba to grow her brand’s international sales. The partnership with Health and Glow will enable the brand to have a permanent presence in India.
According to the Victorian government, the state exported $539 million worth of goods and services to India in 2018, with food and fibre products one of the largest contributors.