27/02/2025

Meet the First-Ever ‘Nan from Del Monte’ – Championing Baking Traditions!

Del Monte Brings Back the Iconic 'Man from Del Monte' After Decades - with a Modern Twist!Del Monte Brings Back the Iconic 'Man from Del Monte' After Decades - with a Modern Twist!

London, UK - February 2025 - In a heartwarming celebration of tradition, family, and the art of home baking, Del Monte®, the UK's leading canned fruit brand, has proudly crowned Pauline Crosby, a 74-year-old grandmother from Norfolk, as the first-ever ‘Nan from Del Monte'. This announcement follows an extensive nationwide search and public vote to find a figurehead who embodies Britain's rich baking heritage.

Pauline, a former Military Policewoman, was nominated by her granddaughter Poppie, who praised her ability to turn every meal into a cherished family memory. With six grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren, Pauline has long been a devoted baker, passing down treasured recipes through the generations. As an active member of the Women's Institute, she has dedicated herself to preserving the tradition of home baking, making her the perfect choice for this role.

Pauline Crosby, pictured with granddaughter Poppie Capper

Championing Britain's Baking Heritage

The search for the ‘Nan from Del Monte' was inspired by research conducted by Del Monte®, which revealed that 39% of Brits consider their grandmothers their biggest kitchen influences, while 41% recall their fondest baking memories being made alongside a grandparent. However, with 74% of people expressing concerns about losing cherished family recipes, Del Monte set out to find a champion who could inspire future generations to keep these traditions alive.

As the Nan from Del Monte, Pauline will share her most beloved recipes, lend her seal of approval to new Del Monte® recipe creations, and encourage families across the UK to embrace home baking. Among the standout dishes that secured her win is a deliciously innovative trifle featuring Del Monte's mandarin slices, which will now be showcased on the Del Monte website.

Pauline's Excitement for Her New Role

Expressing her joy at being crowned, Pauline said:

"To win the title of ‘Nan from Del Monte' is such a privilege. I think many of us remember the ‘Man from Del Monte' adverts, which still make me smile. Now, the ‘Nan from Del Monte' says yes! Baking has always been at the heart of my family, and I feel so proud to know that my recipes and traditions are being celebrated in this way by such an iconic brand. It's a joy to see the next generation enjoy the dishes I've passed down, and I hope this recognition inspires others to keep these precious family traditions alive."

A Word from Del Monte®

Thierry Montange, Marketing Director for Europe and Africa at Del Monte®, shared his enthusiasm for the campaign, saying:

"We are thrilled to announce Pauline as our first-ever ‘Nan from Del Monte.' This campaign was designed to reignite the nation's passion for traditional baking and ensure cherished family recipes are preserved for future generations. Pauline truly embodies the spirit of this initiative, and her story reminds us of the invaluable role grandparents play in shaping our culinary culture. We hope her win inspires families everywhere to revive their baking heritage and continue creating lasting memories together."

What's Next for the Nan from Del Monte?

As part of her prize, Pauline will receive a year's supply of Del Monte® products and a NutriBullet, helping her continue her baking legacy. Her role will also see her engaging with the public, sharing time-honored recipes, and ensuring that Britain's love for baking remains as strong as ever.

Find her recipe here!