Big appetite for Georgie Pie

Kiwis love their pies and the resurgence of Georgie Pie has proved this, with over 3 million consumed since their re-launch 12 months ago.

After a 15 year break, Georgie Pie made its return in June last year, being sold at McDonald’s restaurants around the country.

The popularity has been so great that the company is planning on launching more original flavours.

McDonald’s is about to trial one of the original sweet pies, the ‘Apple ‘N’ Blackberry’.

Georgie Pie’s 30,000 Facebook fans were able to vote for their local McDonald’s restaurant to be part of the trial, and restaurants in South Auckland, Hamilton, Palmerston North and Christchurch will participate.

McDonald’s New Zealand managing director, Patrick Wilson, says the ‘Apple ‘N’ Blackberry’ is one fans have been asking for since their re-launch.

“It was only available in a smaller, round size, so we’re asking customers to tell us if they like the pie in the same square shape as the Steak Mince ‘N’ Cheese and Chicken ‘N’ Vegetable,” says Wilson.

They’re also seeking feedback on what new types of pies people would like to see in the future.

Local businesses and industries have also been benefiting from Georgie Pie’s return including Christchurch company Moffat, which manufactured the 250 ovens and 200 hot holding cabinets required for baking the pies fresh in restaurant. The New Zealand beef industry has also benefited from the increased demand for quality local beef.

Initial trials of Georgie Pie began in June 2013 with a full national roll-out completed by March 2014.

Two original flavours are now permanent menu items, Steak Mince ‘N’ Cheese and Chicken ‘N’ Vegetable, and the company is planning on launching more variations in the future.