Drinks firm Just Bee secures double contract win

Honey-infused drink brand Just Bee has secured contracts with two high-end retailers after landing financial support from the Greater Manchester Business Growth Hub.

Just Bee drinks will now be sold from Selfridges’ food stores in Manchester, London and Birmingham, as well as the Fortnum & Mason department store in London.

Just Bee’s co-owner, Joe Harper, said: “More and more people are looking for a healthier alternative to soft drinks with sugar.

“We developed Just Bee as a healthier option because it only uses honey as a natural sweetener.”

He added: “We attended a number of the Business Growth Hub’s workshops and these have been extremely valuable when it came to our meetings with Selfridges and Fortnum’s.”

Launched in March this year, Just Bee’s spring water drinks use honey as a natural sweetener and comprise three flavours: Lemon and Green Tea, Apple and Ginger, and Blueberry and Lemon.

Mick Hadfield is an advisor for the Business Growth Hub, where Just Bee took part in a number of workshops, including the Recipe for Success programme. He commented: “Just Bee is a fantastic example of what entrepreneurs can achieve in a short space of time if they have the right attitude, the right idea and the right advice.

“In just 12 weeks, the business has gone from launch to securing nationwide distribution rights, including deals with some of the UK’s most prestigious brands.”

Mick continued: “As part of our ‘Recipe for Success’ programme, we offered Joe and co-owner Andy the opportunity to hone their skills when it comes to pitching to retailers, as well as offering advice on how to create a sustainable business.

“As we’ve been a part of the company since day one, it’s extremely pleasing to see the progress the guys have made, and we’re looking forward to building our relationship with Just Bee as the business continues to grow.”

In addition to the new contracts with Fortnum & Mason and Selfridges, Just Bee has teamed up with a number of outlets in the North West, including Katsouris Deli and the five-star Hotel Gotham, both in Manchester.

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