Portsmouth spice expands its reach across Hampshire

A range of products, developed in the heart of Portsmouth by a lifelong resident, have hit the shelves of local stores across Hampshire.

Liam Coleman, who discovered a passion for history and chilli whilst travelling in throughout Europe, launched his range of chilli sauces in 2015.

The flavours have been a hit and his enthusiasm has now also gained him the attention of the regional co-operative Southern Co-op which will be adding all five flavours to its Local Flavours range.

"We are very excited to have Spice Island Chilli in our stores," said Matt Elliott, Southern Co-op's Retail Buying & Services Manager who looks after Local Flavours. "It is available in 21 of our co-operative convenience stores across Hampshire and we're looking forward to hearing what our customers think of them.

"Being a 149 year old co-operative that is part of Portsmouth's history, it is even more special to have a new local producer in our range which is based on Portsea Island. Sustainability is important to us and buying local goes a long way in supporting this agenda."

The five products were launched in stores at the end of April and include: Hardy's Kiss (mild) with jalapeno and lime; Bligh's Revenge (medium) with chipotle and tomato; Drake's Gold (medium/hot) with habanero and pineapple; Centurion 1744 (hot) with scotch bonnet and spiced rum; and Ghost Ship (super hot) with ghost pepper and garlic.

"Spice Island Chilli is the south of England's premium quality, multi-purpose range of chilli specific condiments," said Liam. "Never compromising on flavour, our balanced range of chilli sauces are proven to be incredibly popular with a broad range of consumer taste preferences and social demographics.

"Spice Island Chilli is proud to breakdown traditional apprehensions about chilli sauces by informing and empowering new and existing customers to cook, dip, marinade and glaze with confidence. By choosing our range of chilli condiments, customers locally and nationwide are using Spice Island Chilli to explore and discover delicious new flavours and recipes, time and time again.

"Southern Co-op, which was originally Portsea Island Mutual Co-operative Society, was first formed in 1873 by Portsmouth dockyard workers. So Spice Island Chilli is incredibly proud to align with Southern Co-op's local heritage, independence and its connections to our maritime history."