US food group Kraft Foods has confirmed that it plans to grow its consumer food business in the South African market.

A spokesperson told just-food yesterday (29 March) that – while Kraft does not make country specific growth projections – “South Africa is one of ten focus markets in our developing market strategy” and, as such, the company aims to grow sales in the country.

“In South Africa, our combined company is a leader in chewing gum, chocolates, coffee and confectionery,” the spokesperson added. “We make and sell well-known brands including: Royal, Riviera, Oreo and Chips Ahoy! biscuits; Beechies chewing gum; Golden Harvest Granola Bars; Tang powdered beverages, Royal instant puddings and baking products; Lecol Lemon Juice and Manhattan confectionery, including Mallows and Gels, Super C sweets.”

Kraft operates manufacturing facilities in Port Elizabeth, Tunney and Elandsfontein, as well as a main distribution centre in Longmeadow. It also has sites in African nations Swaziland, Botswana, Kenya, Namibia.