Globaltraded.com — In the competitive world of grocery exports, few companies have managed to carve out a reputation as enduring and far-reaching as Ramsden International. From its humble beginnings as a small retail store in Grimsby, UK, in 1946, Ramsden International has grown into the country’s leading wholesale exporter of British grocery brands. With a portfolio of over 25,000 products, the company now serves more than 650 customers in over 130 countries, embodying the essence of British entrepreneurship on a global stage.
A Legacy Built on Export Excellence
Ramsden International’s story is one of continuous evolution and adaptation. Founded by Ron Ramsden, the company began as a local retail store catering to the Grimsby community. Over the decades, it transformed into a wholesale business under the leadership of Dudley Ramsden, who established D.B. Ramsden & Co Ltd in 1961. Initially focused on supplying non-food products to the retail store, the company soon ventured into exports, marking the beginning of its journey into the global market.
The first export order in 1970 was a pivotal moment for Ramsden International, setting the stage for its future as a global exporter. The creation of DeeBee Worldwide in 1989, an export division holding worldwide rights for all Nisa Today’s private label brands, further solidified its position in the export market. By 1995, under the leadership of Sean Ramsden, the company’s turnover exceeded £10 million, with distribution reaching over fifty countries.
The Heart of Success
At the core of Ramsden International’s success lies its unwavering commitment to customer service. The company’s “customer first” strategy has been instrumental in transforming it from a traditional export wholesaler into a value-added service provider. Ramsden International offers a comprehensive supply chain solution that includes logistics, data compliance, relabeling, ingredient translations, and category management. This holistic approach ensures that customers, ranging from small retailers to large distributors, receive tailored services that meet their specific needs.
Ramsden International’s focus on customer service is reflected in its international operations. With sales offices in Singapore, New Zealand, and the UAE, the company employs in-country salespeople with the local knowledge required to successfully manage commercial relationships within each territory. This local expertise, combined with the ability to communicate in 27 different languages, allows Ramsden International to cater to its diverse customer base effectively.
Global Challenges: Brexit and Beyond
The global business landscape is fraught with challenges, and Ramsden International has faced its fair share. The twin challenges of Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic tested the company’s resilience and adaptability. However, Ramsden International emerged stronger, demonstrating its ability to navigate complex global trading conditions.
Brexit posed significant challenges for UK exporters, particularly in terms of regulatory changes and market access. Ramsden International’s proactive approach included the establishment of a new European entity in Belgium in 2021. This strategic move allowed the company to mitigate the impact of Brexit, ensuring continuity in its European operations. Achieving Full Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status further underscored Ramsden International’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of compliance and operational efficiency.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented disruptions to global supply chains, but Ramsden International’s robust supply chain management and flexible operations allowed it to continue serving its customers worldwide. The company’s ability to adapt quickly to changing market conditions and maintain high levels of service was a testament to its operational excellence.
Innovative Leadership: Driving Growth and Expansion
Leadership has played a crucial role in Ramsden International’s growth and success. Sean Ramsden, who took over as Managing Director in 1995, has been a driving force behind the company’s expansion into international markets. A graduate of Cambridge University, Sean brought a fresh perspective to the business, focusing on innovation, customer service, and global expansion.
Under Sean’s leadership, Ramsden International rebranded in 2010, marking a new era for the company. The rebranding was not just cosmetic; it reflected a shift in the company’s strategy towards becoming a comprehensive service provider in the export market. This included the introduction of new product ranges, such as the Health Range in 2010 and the Fine Foods range in 2021, which replaced the Speciality Range.
Innovation has been a hallmark of Ramsden International’s approach. The launch of the Ramsden Order Capture System (ROCS) in 2017 was a significant step forward in streamlining the order process for customers. The system’s success demonstrated the company’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.
Global Reach: A Footprint in Over 130 Countries
Ramsden International’s global reach is a testament to its successful export strategy. The company’s ability to serve over 650 customers in more than 130 countries is a result of its strategic focus on international markets. From health goods and fine foods to Britain’s biggest brands, Ramsden International offers an extensive range of products that cater to diverse consumer preferences around the world.
The company’s international presence is bolstered by its exclusive export partnership with the Co-op own-label range. This partnership allows Ramsden International’s customers to choose from over 2,000 Co-op branded products across all categories, further enhancing its product offering.
Ramsden International’s commitment to quality and customer service has earned it numerous accolades over the years. Since 1998, the company has received over 100 business awards, including The Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, which it has won three times. These awards are a recognition of the company’s excellence in exporting and its contribution to promoting British products globally.