Golden North’s China, Vietnam shipments face new COVID testing

The ice-cream maker says it’s staying cool about new COVID tests in Asia for tonnes of products destined for China and Vietnam.

Twins Tamika and Jasmine Coveney with Golden North marketing and exports director Trevor Pomery. Picture: Keryn Stevens.

Giant Twins ice cream maker Golden North is cool in the face of new export challenges as 21,000kg of the frozen delights make their way to China and Vietnam.

About 40 pallets will land on China’s shores around March 25, but each flavour will be sample-tested for coronavirus, along with all packaging, under new export requirements.

“No one in Australia is doing such a test, so we are just going to send it over and I am confident, it will be OK,” Golden North marketing manager Trevor Pomery said.

Twins Tamika and Jasmine Covrney with Golden North marketing and exports director Trevor Pomery at the Nailsworth outlet. Picture: Keryn Stevens.

Another 20 pallets are heading for Vietnam, a key export market for Golden North.

“Overall we are in a much better position than we were six months ago. Food services channels are opening up again and grocery sales are still strong.

“In fact I am heartened to see the support for a brand that has stood the test of time since 1923.

“We are seeing more of the realisation among customers that supporting and buying local is good for everyone in the long run.”

Golden North employs 65 workers at its Laura factory, in the Mid North, and 15 staff at its Nailsworth head office.

Close to 12.5 million litres of ice cream is made each year and sold in all major supermarkets in South Australia. Interstate, it is available through IGA stores.

The business is currently celebrating the relaunch of its top treat, the Giant Twins.

The ice cream bar is being made with a “dent” again, taking the brand back to its 1950s roots when it was designed to be shared with a friend or “twin”.

The refreshed product and packaging has also allowed Golden North to introduce new flavours permanently, attracting a younger clientele.

In the midst of its best summer sales ever, Golden North, which is owned by five local families, is increasing exports to fill some sales gaps over winter.