Malaysia Welcomes Vimto: A New Home for an Old Classic
PETALING JAYA: The wait is over – Vimto, the iconic fruity beverage with a 110-year heritage, has finally made its debut in Malaysia.
Vimto, known for its unique fruit blend and a secret mix of herbs and spices, has long been a favourite across the Middle East, the UK, and Africa, and is a household name in over 60 countries.
Matt Nichols, Vimto’s international commercial director, said Malaysia was the perfect gateway into the Southeast Asian market, with the brand set to introduce its distinctive taste to a whole new audience.
“Food and beverage are such a big part of life in Malaysia, and the consumer is so discerning. That means our quality product should be really successful here,” said Nichols.
He added that Malaysia’s diverse food culture, demand for high-quality halal-certified products, and strong retail infrastructure make it an ideal market to launch the brand.
“As we mark our 102nd Ramadan in the Middle East, we are excited to celebrate our first in Malaysia with our signature blend. And this is just the beginning of our journey in becoming part of the nation’s celebrations,” said Nichols.
Since its soft launch in October 2024 through 99 Speedmart, Vimto has quickly expanded to major retailers such as AEON, Giant, Mydin, TF Value-Mart, Seibu, Sogo, and Isetan, making it easily available nationwide.
A Unique Taste, Now for Malaysian Palates
What really sets Vimto apart is its unique and irreplaceable taste – a recipe that has been cherished and passed down through the generations.
Adding to its uniqueness is the fact that its recipe remains top secret, known to only four people worldwide, including Nichols, who is the brand’s fourth-generation leader from the founding family.
Matt Nichols, the brand’s fourth-generation leader from the founding family, is one of only four people in the world who knows the top-secret Vimto recipe.
“Vimto holds a special place in many people’s hearts – whether as a symbol of Ramadan across the Middle East, a playful favourite in the UK, or a family staple across Africa, it resonates with people in different ways.
“And for Malaysia, we’ve crafted a special recipe with blackcurrant, raspberry, and grape to adapt to local flavour preferences,” Nichols said.
To ensure success in Malaysia, Vimto has partnered with leading local players: Universal NutriBeverage Sdn Bhd as its authorized manufacturer, and Socma Trading (M) Sdn Bhd as its official distributor.
“We’re proud to work with Vimto International. With more than 50 years of beverage manufacturing experience, we are committed to maintaining the highest quality and halal standards,” said Terence Kuah, director of Universal NutriBeverage.
A Growing Beverage Favorite in Malaysia
Looking ahead, Nichols said Vimto aims to expand its presence beyond cordial drinks, potentially introducing ready-to-drink and sparkling variants.
“For the short to medium term, our focus is on establishing the brand in Malaysia and building a strong consumer base. We believe this is a great platform for growth into other Southeast Asian markets,” he said.
With its rich history, unmistakable taste, and strong strategic partnerships, Vimto is set to become a beloved addition to Malaysia’s vibrant beverage scene – one sip at a time.
Conclusion
Vimto’s arrival in Malaysia marks a new chapter in its 110-year history, as the brand looks to make a lasting impression on the local market. With its unique taste, high-quality ingredients, and commitment to halal standards, Vimto is poised to become a staple in many Malaysian households.
FAQs
Q: What is Vimto?
A: Vimto is a fruity beverage with a 110-year heritage, known for its unique fruit blend and a secret mix of herbs and spices.
Q: Where is Vimto available in Malaysia?
A: Vimto is available at major retailers such as AEON, Giant, Mydin, TF Value-Mart, Seibu, Sogo, and Isetan.
Q: What sets Vimto apart from other beverages?
A: Vimto’s unique taste, high-quality ingredients, and commitment to halal standards make it stand out in the market.
Q: What is the future of Vimto in Malaysia?
A: Vimto aims to expand its presence beyond cordial drinks, potentially introducing ready-to-drink and sparkling variants in the future.