In less than three months, Hi-Chew has become a strong seller at Coles supermarkets. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1060499/hi_chew_Logo.jpg Ranged at various Coles locations nationwide since the end of May, peg bags of Hi-Chew Original Mix ranked a strong 3rd in sales value as of mid-August, with Sweet & Sour near the Top 10, and Tropical Mix in the Top 20. "After just a few months in Australia, we're outselling many famous global brands," said Terry Kawabe, Managing Director of Morinaga Asia Pacific Co. "This parallels the success we've seen in New Zealand, where sales of Hi-Chew have jumped by 300% in five years. At Pak 'n Save and New World markets in Auckland, our sales per store hit nearly 1,000 units a month this year -- over 20 units per 100,000 population." Morinaga Asia Pacific recently launched an expanded marketing campaign to promote awareness and sales of Hi-Chew in Australia and New Zealand, featuring the new slogan "Fortune Flavours the Bold." "Hi-Chew is the best-selling soft candy in Japan, and the sales results here in Australia are highly encouraging," said Anthony King, Managing Director of distributor Grocery Corporation. "From the real fruit flavours and unique long-lasting texture to the packaging, this is a premium candy. To encourage trial purchases, we've been supporting our retailers with monthly 25%-off promotions." In Australia, Hi-Chew has been ranged at selected Coles stores nationwide. In New Zealand, the brand is sold at various retailers nationwide, including Pak 'n Save and New World. Available packaging includes peg bags with mixed flavours (100g Original Mix, 100g Tropical Mix, 90g Sweet & Sour) and sticks in four different flavours (Strawberry, Grape, Green Apple, Mango). The candy was created in 1975 by Morinaga & Co., Ltd., one of Japan's "Big 4" confectionery companies. The fruit chews have been offered in more than 170 flavours, and achieved sales success worldwide. Website: www.morinaga-ap.com SOURCE: Morinaga Asia Pacific Co., Ltd. CONTACT: Australia: Jenelle Trisic, Grocery Corporation, +61-2-8404-0240, jenellet@grocerycorp.com.au; New Zealand: Mark Whiteman, Tokyo Food, NZ, +64-9-570-5792, order_retail@tokyo.co.nz