Pure Chocolate Jamaica has won Pitch Live in partnership with The Great Brand Exchange at Speciality & Fine Food 2023.  

Pure Chocolate Jamaica along with Kult Kefir, Tios Drinks and had the opportunity to pitch their products live at the Fair to a panel of leading industry experts for the chance to win prizes including a popup in John Lewis, a month of free access to The Great Brand Exchange buyer directory and a month’s business mentoring.  

The company purchases cocoa beans from local farmers and uses them to create 100% Jamaican handmade chocolate. By paying their farmers above market price for their crop they can take better care of their farm and ensure Pure gets the best beans possible. 

Wouter Tjeertes Owner of Pure Chocolate Jamaica commented: “It was nerve wracking pitching. You always do one-on-one pitches and we’ve never done it on stage so to win that way is really a recognition of the fact that you know what you’re talking about and you’re confident in what you do. It’s amazing to be recognised for it.” 

The judges for this year’s Pitch Live were Emma Issimdar, Buyer Gift Food at John Lewis & Partners, Freya O'Mara, Senior Buyer for Cheese at Ocado Retail, Stefano Cuomo, CEO of Macknade’s and Matt Hopkins, Founder of The Great Brand Exchange.  

The judges commented on Pure Chocolate Jamaica’s delicious taste and strong connection to its communities, plus its ability to stand out in an over-saturated product category.  

Find out more about Pitch Live and this year’s winner at specialityandfinefoodfairs.co.uk/pitch-live.