New Covent Garden Risotto Launched: February 2006 Sales: £102,000 Star rating: ? ?



New Covent Garden Food Company attempted to bring risotto to the masses with its ready-to-eat product but, with distribution levels of only 5% of the multiples, in many cases the masses have had to wait. As the popularity of risotto grows, however, the product is likely to gain more listings.

Absolutely Fabulous Launched: September 2006 Sales: not available Star rating: ? ?



The Fabulous Bakin' Boys launched Absolutely Fabulous to tap into the growing market for premium cakes but the products are so far only available in foodservice. Momentum is now starting to gather and the range is being trialled in a number of Sainsbury's stores, with a full launch set for September.

My Little Soup Launched: September 2006 Sales: £27,000 Star rating: ? ?



My Little Soup may not be in a position to challenge Heinz quite yet, but its innovative idea of producing soup for children has gone down well with parents looking to give their offspring simple yet healthy food. The product is only available through a limited number of Asda stores but sales have so far been steady.

Cappuccino Cigars Launched: February 2006 Sales: not available Star rating: ? ?



Launched to compete with Café Crème, Gallaher's Cappuccino cigars tap into

the post-prandial ritual of a cigar and coffee by combining the two. The brand has achieved an 0.8% share of the tobacco market in the multiple grocers and continues to grow, according to the company.

Bonne Maman Biscuits Launched: September 2006 Sales: not available Star rating: ? ?



Bonne Maman has expanded its range of French-style biscuits with the introduction of raspberry and chocolate caramel tartlets. The company reports that sales of many lines have been positive and that repeat purchases are high, but it has delisted its Petits Délices range of cakes.

Birds Eye Pub Specials Launched: March 2006 Sales: not available Star rating: ? ?



Birds Eye's plans to bring super premium ready meals to the freezers with its gastropub-inspired recipes, such as white wine chicken breast, may have been over-ambitious. Pub Specials has been delisted by most retailers and is unlikely to be gracing the frozen aisles for much longer.