Shares in Chill Brands Group plc surged 40% after the company provided a positive commercial update ahead of its Annual General Meeting, highlighting the launch of its Chill Connect wholesale distribution platform and outlining broader strategic ambitions.
The company confirmed that Chill Connect is now live, with more than 2,000 retailer accounts already onboarded. The platform allows UK convenience retailers to purchase tobacco alternatives, vaping products, nicotine pouches, beverages, confectionery and other fast-moving consumer goods through a dedicated wholesale ordering system.
Management said the launch follows a major operational transformation, with the business shifting away from a traditional brand-led consumer goods model towards a distribution-focused platform targeting the UK convenience retail market.
The board believes the transition has created a more scalable and durable operating structure, with the online wholesale model expected to improve efficiency, extend commercial reach and reduce reliance on physical cash handling and field-based ordering processes.
The company said retailer feedback has highlighted growing demand for broader product ranges from a single trusted supplier, creating opportunities for further category expansion across beverages, confectionery and other adjacent convenience retail sectors.
Chill Brands also confirmed it is in discussions with additional consumer goods brands seeking distribution access through the platform.
Alongside the operational update, the board revealed it is engaged in a number of early-stage discussions regarding potential partnerships, investment opportunities and transactions aimed at enhancing shareholder value.
Management said the company’s London Main Market listing provides a platform for broader expansion and diversification beyond its current scale, although no formal agreements or commitments have yet been reached.
Investors responded positively to the update, with the sharp rise in the share price reflecting optimism surrounding the scalability of the Chill Connect platform and the company’s evolving strategic direction.
