Strand Palace Agencies Ltd. is a family owned company with fourth generation members running it. The prime activity is food and confectionery distribution and the firm exclusively represents a number of companies with world renowned brand names which include Galbani, K.P., Stimorol, McVitie’s, Fisherman’s Friend, Ricola and Slim Fast amongst others.

Distribution is direct to retailers and supermarkets which represents 82% of sales, with wholesalers (representing the additional 18%) taking care of the smaller outlets. Hotels and restaurants are also directly supplied. The catering industry which include bakers and confectioners are also supplied with their requirements. All these are serviced by nine salesmen and five merchandisers calling directly on a weekly basis. Distribution is on a next day service and provided for by a fleet of 10 vehicles of which 5 are dedicated to chilled products.

Incorporated withing the group of companies are three manufacturing units, Gaiety Confectionery produces wafers, nuts, bakers products and chocolates. Bow-Tie Confectionery Ltd. produces boiled sweets, toffees, nougat, lollipops and sugared almonds. Darrell Lea Foods Ltd. produces a range of extruded snack foods including ‘Twistees’ which is the foremost selling snack on the islands.

Other activities within group include share holdings in Malta Mariculture Ltd. a 500 ton fish farming operation off Comino and Polycane (M) Ltd. a leisure furniture manufacturing concern exporting 90% of its production. Byblos Ltd. is involved in real estate.

The current turnover of the group is now substantial by Maltese standards and employs some 125 personnel enjoying a good reputation in the business community with a firm commitment towards expansion while maintaining a personalised service to all clients.