For 26 years Annies -food you trust, has been an institution of healthy, unadulterated snacks and they're only just beginning. Annies is an endearing story of 'the little company that could'. They've come a long way since their beginnings as an artisan food producer operating from the kitchen stove on the Giles' Marlborough farm.

Produced in New Zealand using New Zealand fruit Annies has seen major growth in recent years, especially so after the bright and colourful re-brand in September 2011. They are now found in over seven different countries and produce tens of millions of fruit leathers a year.

One of Annies' newest products, Annies Apple Snaps, also launched in September last year and described as "deliciously addictive", is proving to be a fast mover on the supermarket shelve. The crunchy, "snappy" morsels are made from just apple (and nothing else) and are unlike anything on the market. But be warned, once opened you will discover why they've been described as "deliciously addictive", says Ann Giles , managing director and founder of Annies.

Annies promises to never compromise on ingredients and quality or to add any nasties to their products. These ideals come directly from Ann Giles herself, the founder of Annies and a former nurse who's passionate about healthy eating and lifestyle.

When reflecting on the company's success, Ann believes, "it's because our products are healthy without breaking the bank - exactly what people need. Today's customers know the issues ... the increase in childhood obesity, high rates of diabetes and heart disease. They're aware that what they eat makes a difference and want to make better choices for themselves and their families. Annies aims to solve the dilemma of trying to find great food choices at reasonable prices that will

be eaten by all the family. Our products are simply fruit without the water. We add nothing; we just turn it into a tasty snack".

Despite the successes Annies - food you trust have stayed true to their name and ethos. Annies' products are 100% natural and healthy to boot - no fat, gluten, dairy, nuts, preservatives, sulphur, added sugar, or concentrates (meaning you get sensible fruit serves with their products). They really are the next best thing to fresh- and as a bonus - un-bruiseable fruit!

The Annies team, including Ann herself will be at the Auckland Food Show in August for the fifth year. "Shows like this mean a lot to us" says Ann, "we basically founded the company on them. Traipsing all over the show with a van load of yummy fruit leathers. It's important to keep going to them even now as it gives us a great chance to meet and talk with the people who buy, eat and love our products. We're always eager to hear from our customers, good or bad. Some of those conversations and suggestions have even ended up in the kitchen with our food technologists and have come to fruition. It's amazing."

So get along to the Annies stall - there'll be heaps of tasting (get in there with those Apple Snaps!) and a great chance to meet Ann herself and the team. See you there!