Following the success of the test launch of a totally new Ferrero product in Malta last year, Gran Soleil, local distributor P. Cutajar & Co. Ltd of Mriehel, has once again been chosen to test market an extended range of the product locally.

Gran Soleil is neither an ice cream nor a sorbet but is a dessert with digestive qualities that is an ideal way to finish a meal. It can be stored in a cupboard since its genuine ingredients, without colourings or preservatives, are in liquid format in a practical, airtight, sealed container.

Before being consumed the container must be shaken vigorously and put in the freezer for about eight hours (or overnight). Apart from the classic Sicilian lemon with Limoncello flavour, two new flavours have been added to the range – tangerine and passion fruit.

Tasting of the product is again being held in local supermarkets; focus groups give the Italian confectionery group important insights based on the particular characteristics of the Maltese market – its size, isolation, captive audience and the ability to micro-communicate.

According to P. Cutajar & Co marketing director Denis Zammit Cutajar, last year’s launch exceeded expectations, with twice the projected amount of Gran Soleil sold.

“I was impressed with the universality of Gran Soleil’s appeal among the Maltese,” Mr Zammit Cutajar said. “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.”