Gran Soleil extends range

When Malta was chosen last year to be the first country outside Italy to launch Gran Soleil, the local Ferrero distributor, P.Cutajar & Co. Ltd of Mrieħel, did not expect it to be such a resounding success.

"The response of the Maltese consumer exceeded our expectations," P.Cutajar & Co.'s marketing director Denis Zammit Cutajar said. "We sold twice as much Gran Soleil as we anticipated.

"We found that the product was enjoyed by a wide range of people, from young to old and across socio-economic groups. It was also bought from all types of outlets, from supermarkets and confectioners to the smallest corner shop," Mr Zammit Cutajar said.

"Ferrero, makers of Rocher and Nutella, conducted focus groups with Maltese consumers and obtained a lot of information which convinced them to repeat the operation with an extended line of products," he added.

The range now comprises tangerine and passion fruit, in addition to the classic lemon flavour.

Gran Soleil is not an ice-cream because it is not aerated; and it is not a sorbet but actually something in between. Many consumers found that, apart from Gran Soleil's delicious taste, it has digestive qualities that make it such a perfect ending to a meal.

According to Francesco Oresta of Ferrero: "Ferrero Gran Soleil answers a clear consumer demand: to finish lunch or dinner in a delightful manner, without heaviness, with a high quality speciality that stimulates digestion in a natural and enjoyable way."

The product, made with genuine ingredients, without colourings or preservatives, is bought in liquid format in a practical, air-tight, sealed container to maintain all the properties and fragrances of its ingredients.

It does not need to be refrigerated, but when it is to be consumed it must be shaken well and placed in a home freezer. After about eight hours, it is ready to enjoy.