Wessanen appoints international sales boss

Caré will lead the company’s international sales team from Wessanen UK’s head office in Camberley, growing global awareness of Wessanen’s portfolio of brands.

He will focus on developing Wessanen’s key markets, including North America and Latin America – with particular focus on Brazil – the Nordics and the Middle East.

Caré joins Wessanen from restaurant chain Nando’s, where he served as director for international business development since April last year.

Associated British Foods​

He has more than 15 years of experience in international sales and marketing roles, including eight years at Associated British Foods (ABF), specialising in hot drinks.

Commenting on his appointment, Caré said: “What I like about Wessanen is that it’s a company that really goes the extra mile to do the right thing. Everything the business does is centred around a core mission of healthier food, healthier people and healthier planet. ​

“I joined the company because I want to raise awareness for Wessanen globally and expand the company’s footprint worldwide. My ambition is to make Wessanen an even bigger global player.”​

Wessanen UK’s human resources director Ann Chambers welcomed Caré to the business.

“International sales is essential to Wessanen’s brands, and David’s appointment will allow us to unlock the potential in various markets overseas and drive further growth,” ​said Chambers.

‘Extensive background and knowledge’​

“His extensive background and knowledge of the tea industry is particularly invaluable as we look to continue the fantastic growth that Clipper Teas has enjoyed internationally.”​

Holland-based Wessanen acquired Clipper Teas in 2012​ for an undisclosed sum, as part of its strategy to become Europe’s biggest organic food and drink brand.  

Established in 1984, Clipper Teas produces a range of hot drinks – including tea, coffee and hot chocolate – using natural and Fairtrade ingredients.

Clipper Teas also won Beverage manufacturing company of the year​ at the Food Manufacture Excellence awards last year. To find out more about this year’s awards on November 1, see the box below.

Meanwhile, Unilever has bought Bristol-based tea manufacturer Pukka Herbs​ for an undisclosed fee, in a bid to close a gap in its portfolio, the manufacturer revealed yesterday (September 7).