Upmarket grocer Waitrose is to make its first foray into the US as it discusses selling its Duchy Originals range through retailers in the country.

The grocer hopes to begin selling a selection of the range by spring, according to the Financial Times, that will include “quintessentially British” products such as biscuits, honey and jam.

It will be the first time US consumers will be exposed to the Waitrose name, as the range, founded by Prince Charles, is now branded Duchy Originals from Waitrose. The retailer sealed a deal last year to be the sole manufacturer and distributor of the products.

The plans will raise speculation that that the grocer could eventually make a play for the US. Waitrose already has franchised stores in Dubai and opens in Bahrain in December.

However, sources said that the move is not a prelude to opening stores in the US.

Waitrose already sells products in 25 countries, and has been studying opportunities in the US for four months.

The Duchy Originals range comprises 166 products, although this is likely to increase to 400 by this time next year.

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