Diageo is to launch a range of Guinness branded peanuts and cashews as it looks to exploit the growing UK snacks market.

“Guinness Gourmet Peanuts and Cashews” will launch next month in Sainsbury’s at the premium price of £1.49 per pack.

It is not Diageo’s first stab at taking Guinness into food categories. A 2007 tie-up with Unilever saw the launch of the limited edition Marmite Guinness, while the brand name has been lent to own-label steak and Guinness pies.

The drinks maker is entering the increasingly competitive but growing snacks category, which grew 6% year-on-year to £3.18bn in 2011, according to Mintel.

Source: www.marketingweek.co.uk