The discontinuation of Gentleman's Relish has created a surge in online resale prices, with listings appearing for upwards of £50 for a 71g pot of the relish, which normally retails for around £4. According to AB World Foods, the product had a niche and loyal following but lacked wider commercial appeal, and retailer distribution had dwindled despite the company's best efforts. The manufacturer confirmed production stopped earlier this year after the brand proved no longer commercially viable and unable to secure a buyer.
Gentleman's Relish was first invented in 1828 by John Osborn. The distinctive condiment is made using anchovies, butter, herbs, and spices, creating a unique flavor profile that has endured for nearly two centuries.
While we recognise that this Victorian relish has a niche and loyal following, it sadly does not have wider commercial appeal and, despite our best efforts, retailer distribution has dwindled.
AB World Foods has manufactured Gentleman's Relish for the past two decades. The company made the decision to discontinue the product after determining it was no longer commercially sustainable.
Public reaction to the discontinuation has included organized petition efforts. Journalist Matthew Steeples started a petition calling on AB Foods to reverse its decision to discontinue Gentleman's Relish. The petition to save Gentleman's Relish had 110 signatures at the time of writing.
With Gentleman's Relish no longer commercially viable and unable to secure a buyer for the brand, we regrettably stopped production earlier this year.
Retailer distribution of Gentleman's Relish had dwindled, according to AB World Foods. The specific retailers or regions that experienced this dwindling distribution have not been identified.
The implications for the brand's future remain uncertain, with no confirmation of ongoing negotiations with potential buyers for the Gentleman's Relish brand. The exact recipe or formula for Gentleman's Relish, which has been closely guarded, may now face an uncertain fate.
Gentleman's Relish is a beloved staple in homes throughout the land. Its discontinuation by AB World Foods is more than just a loss of a culinary delight; it is yet another loss of a part of our culinary heritage.