11 Dec 08 Letters of Complaint - Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice

One from the archive, but still raises a smile when I read it…

Concerned about the amount of sea water in “Ocean Spray” Cranberry drinks, we got in touch for clarification…
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—– Original Message —–
From: madeup@email.com
To: craninfobureau@fieldmcnallyleathes.co.uk
Sent: Saturday, April 12, 2003 11:15 AM
Subject: Cranberry juice
Sir,

I am considering whether or not to purchase a bottle of your advertised Ocean Spray Cranberry and Blackcurrant Drink from a local shop. I am perhaps a little cautious in trying new things, but I would like to clear up a few minor points before I rush out and spend my money.

Firstly, I would like to know what particular ocean spray is used in the manufacture of your drink, I am quite sensitive to high levels of sodium in my diet. Also, I wish to make sure, that the spindrift used is hygienically treated to remove normal seawater contaminants. Please confirm that it comes from a European Blue Flag certified source.

Secondly, your product claims to use American Cranberries, am I to assume that these are of the highest standard; and better than a British equivalent?

Third, and finally, on the bottle I examined in the supermarket, other products mentioned were “Cranberry Classic”, and “Cranberry and Raspberry”. In light of the above, I wish to know whether you produce any products made solely with British fruit, perhaps a refreshing Loganberry and redcurrant Spritz?

My Best regards

A Madeupname (Mr)
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Their First response was not what we expected…
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—– Original Message —–
From: kerry@******.co.uk
To: madeup@email.com
Sent: Monday, April 14, 2003 8:58 AM
Subject: RE: Cranberry juice

He sounds like he could be a tricky customer!!!!. One for you, Can you help?

Kerry
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So we sent it back…
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—– Original Message —–
From: madeup@email.com
To: kerry@******.co.uk
Sent: Monday, April 14, 2003 9:26 AM
Subject: RE: Cranberry juice
Dear Kerry,

Somehow I do not think that you meant to send this e-mail to me.

Regards

Mr Madeupname
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And a couple of days later they gave us an answer…
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—–Original Message—–
From: Judy B*****s [mailto:judy@******.co.uk]
Sent: 17 April 2003 14:35
To: madeup@email.com
Subject: Cranberry Juice
Dear Mr Madeupname

Thank you for your recent e-mail. Please rest assured that Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice Drinks is produced to the highest standards and all rigorous regulations laid down by legislation are adhered to.

Ocean Spray is made under license by a reputable major drinks manufacturer whose expertise and status make them one of the leading manufacturers of juice and juice drinks in the UK. They supply the majority of branded and unbranded products into UK retailers.

If you would like to send your address we will send you some further information and a free coupon for one of Ocean Spray’s Juice Drinks.

Best wishes

Judy B*****s

Judy B*****s
Account Director
Field McNally Leathes Ltd.
Field House
8 High Street
Hurstpierpoint
West Sussex
BN6 9TY
Tel: 01273 834716
Fax: 01273 834306
Website: www.******.co.uk
E-mail: judy@******.co.uk
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So we said thanks and offered them some help…
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—–Original Message—–
From: madeup@email.com
Sent: 19 April 2003 08:58
To: ‘Judy b*****s’
Subject: RE: Cranberry Juice
Dear Judy

Many thanks for your response to my enquiry.

When I received your e-mail, I rushed out, and bought the bottle of Cranberry and Blackcurrant juice I had promised myself. I was a little surprised that the drink had not been made from “Ocean Spray”, but I was delighted with the flavour and will most certainly be trying out the other flavours advertised with your money off voucher.

I was interested to read that your company also produces drinks under other labels. As you may remember from my original E-mail, I am a devotee of the loganberry and the redcurrant, and think that the marriage of the unique flavours of these most English of fruits would make a delightful addition to your range.

Please could you let me know whether this product is manufactured at the moment, and if not, when it will be. I currently make this drink myself from a recipe I inherited from my beloved Aunt Jessica (decd) and as a tribute to her, I would be delighted to share this family secret with you.

Kindest regards

A Madeupname (Mr)
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and they continued to play along…
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—– Original Message —–
From: judy@******.co.uk
To: madeup@email.com
Sent: Tuesday, April 22, 2003 8:10 AM
Subject: RE: Cranberry Juice
Dear James

Thanks for getting back to us and I hope that you had a good Easter. At the moment Ocean Spray do not produce a redcurrant or loganberry blend of juice or juice drinks but should we hear of any launch plans we will let you know. Meanwhile you may be interested in trying Ocean Spray’s latest flavour - Cranberry & Mango - to the Light range.

Would be very interested in seeing your Aunt’s recipe!

Thanks

Judy
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I never sent Judy the recipe for my Loganberry and Redcurrant spritz - some family secrets are best kept!
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