Consumers are embracing quality ethnic items that appeal to their desire for authentic and healthful foods.
Kontos Foods, Inc., a manufacturer and distributor of traditional Greek and Mediterranean foods, recently announced that this past year was a banner year for the company, as it grew sales of its flatbreads, Fillo-based products and dairy items such as Greek yogurt, Tzatziki sauce and Feta Cheese in the US, the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia.
“Year-on-year, we are seeing significant growth in demand for Greek and Mediterranean foods across several markets. For example, our low-carbohydrate, high-protein Greek Lifestyle Flatbread, has seen especially brisk demand, eclipsing our standard pita breads in some accounts,” said Steve Kontos, vice president and owner of Kontos Foods. “This year, we set out to grow our retail and foodservice business globally, and our efforts are paying off. We look forward to the year ahead and have plans for further expansion, both in markets mentioned, and in new markets.”
As part of Kontos Foods’ effort to grow its export business, the company increased expansion efforts in the Caribbean – including Bermuda, the Bahamas, Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico – where Greek and Mediterranean foods have become increasingly popular in both retail stores and foodservice establishments.
To expand awareness of Kontos Foods into other international markets, the company attended the SIAL Canada International Food & Beverage Tradeshow in Montréal and the Food & Hotel China (FHC) 2014 show in Shanghai China – exhibiting Kontos Flatbreads, Fillo and Kataifi products, Crepes, Baklava, Nut Rolls and more. Fillo pastries such as Kontos Baklava, Spanakopita and Tyropita were particularly well-received at both international and US trade shows.
“Consumers everywhere are discovering the enjoyment and health benefits of the Mediterranean diet. Consumers are embracing quality ethnic items that appeal to their desire for authentic and healthful foods,” said Warren Stoll, marketing director.
Founded in 1987, Kontos Foods, Inc. is a Paterson, New Jersey-based provider of traditional Mediterranean foods for restaurants, hotels, food service, retail specialty stores and supermarkets worldwide. The family-owned company specializes in hand-stretched flatbreads, including the Pocket-Less Pita®, Fillo dough, pastries, olives, gyro meats, and Greek yogurts, as well as nearly 50 varieties of multi-ethnic flatbreads. Kontos, which has over 225 employees and was founded by Evripides (Evris) Kontos with his son Steven, together bring over 100 years’ experience in the premium food industry. The company’s bread and Fillo products are made in the USA.
