Ulster Grocer – October 2016

Grocer N O . 1 M A G A Z I N E F O R T H E L O C A L G R O C E RY S E C T O R

™

Over 40 years at the heart of the Northern Ireland food industry

Tesco Northern Ireland Two decades supporting local producers

OCTOBER 2016

ULSTER

CONTENTS

email: info@ulstergrocer.com Volume 51, Number 9 October 2016 Editor: Alyson Magee E: a.magee@independentmagazinesni.co.uk Contributors: Michele Shirlow, Jason Winstanley Sales Manager: Mark Beckett E: m.beckett@independentmagazinesni.co.uk Senior Accounts Manager: Michelle Kearney E: m.kearney@independentmagazinesni.co.uk

www.ulstergrocer.com

37-39

34-36

10

26-27

Art Editor: Stuart Gray Production Manager: Stuart Gray

17-25

@ulstergrocer www.facebook.com/ulstergrocer Subscription: £27.50 per annum

£37.50 outside UK

Designed & Produced by: Independent News & Media Ltd. Tel: 028 9026 4000 Printed by: W&G Baird, Antrim Tel: 028 9446 3911

12-13 YEAR OF FOOD & DRINK: Food NI’s Michele Shirlow looks forward to the BBC Good Food Show Belfast (Oct 14-16), while Ann’s Pantry in Larne rose to the challenge and lifted the title of Northern Ireland’s Best Bakery in a competition marking Bread & Bakery month.

17-27 TESCO TASTE: UG reviews the eighth annual Tesco Taste Festival in Belfast’s Custom House Square last month, which attracted 25,000 consumers over the weekend, while NI Commercial Manager Sean Largey talks about Tesco’s 20 years in Northern Ireland.

31-33 COFFEE CULTURE: Interest in origin is growing among consumers and pod sales are continuing to expand at the expense of instant coffee, while trends in the burgeoning artisan coffee shop sector such as cold brews and nitro coffee are expected to roll out to the retail sector.

Independent News & Media Ltd © 2016. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without the prior permission of Independent News & Media Ltd.

34-36 BIG NIGHT IN: As another summer fades to autumn and cosy nights at home gain in appeal, the latest NPD from producers and retailers includes both indulgence and healthier snacks from SPAR, while Tayto is targeting the £3m local market with its first popcorn range.

37-39 TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS: UG looks at sector innovators from Ardboe Coldstore’s full range of logistical solutions providing temperature-controlled warehousing, distribution and added value services to Star Rental’s short and long term contract packages servicing the grocery trade.

8 • Ulster Grocer | JANUARY 2011

Contents

Web: www.ulstergrocer.com

10 RETAILER SHOWCASE: Over 150 retailers attended Musgrave NI’s annual retailer showcase last month, featuring the latest ranges across key categories including Food to Go, Coffee, Bakery, Ambient Grocery, Chilled Convenience, Produce, Health, Meat and Wine.

ULSTER GROCER

Ulster Grocer c/o Independent News & Media Ltd. Belfast Telegraph House 33 Clarendon Road Clarendon Dock Belfast BT1 3BG

3

COMMENT & NEWS

Retailers and suppliers set out their stalls I

t’s been a busy past month for the local grocery trade, with retailers setting out their stalls at events such as the Tesco Taste Festival in Belfast’s Custom House Square, Musgrave NI’s annual retailer showcase at the Galgorm Resort & Spa and, most recently, the Food Force Ireland Direct Trade Supplier Day at the Culloden Estate & Spa.

Individually impressive and distinct from one another as these events were, they all shared a sense of vibrancy, supplier innovation and retail support for local food and drink producers.

The overriding impression was one of retailers and suppliers alike upping their game for Year of Food & Drink, and

presenting a more modern and responsive grocery offer. Long may the legacy of Year of Food & Drink continue.

Alyson Magee Editor

Food Force Ireland expands its reach into the drinks trade

B

Peter Doherty from Britvic (pictured, centre, with Debra Johnston, trading controller, and Henry Emerson, chairman of Food Force Ireland) was named Account Manager of the Year at last month’s Direct Trade Supplier Day.

risk business was reported at Food Force Ireland’s annual Direct Trade Supplier Day last month, on the back of strong attendance by both suppliers and retailers as well as a portfolio expansion into the drinks trade for the Nisa retailer buying group.

United Wine Merchants, Robb Bros, Proximo, Dillon Bass, Cabroso Wines, Philip Russell, McCabes and Woodford Bourne were among drinks companies exhibiting at the event, which was held on September 27 at the Culloden Estate & Spa. “So many members turned up, and many of the orders placed with suppliers were huge,” said Debra Johnston, trading controller at Food Force Ireland. “It was a win, win all round.”

As well as a bustling supplier exhibition, the day featured a luncheon attended by suppliers and members and presentation of the FFI Supplier of the Year awards.

Lifting Account Manager of the Year was Peter Doherty of Britvic, with the company also awarded Soft Drinks Supplier of the Year, while the Ambient Supplier accolade went to Tayto, Bakery Supplier to Allied Bakeries and Chilled Supplier to Kerry Foods.

The Direct Trade Supplier Day will be featured in full in the November Ulster Grocer. For further information, contact Mark Beckett at m.beckett@independentmagazinesni.co.uk or call 028 90264267.

NIIRTA urges Communities Minister to support town centres

I

n its first meeting with the Minister for Communities Paul Givan last month, the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association (NIIRTA) urged the Executive to ensure investment in town centres is an integral part of the new Programme for Government.

The NIIRTA delegation also briefed the Minister on its Programme for Government, the Plan.

“This was a productive first meeting with Minister Givan, who underlined his commitment to the regeneration of our town centres,” said Glyn Roberts, chief executive of NIIRTA. “Northern Ireland has nearly twice the UK average of town centre shop vacancies and the Executive must ensure that turning this problem around is a central priority.

“The Department for Communities (DoC) should work with Councils and the private sector in establishing Town Centre Retail Incubator Units in vacant shops to encourage start-up retailers and provide affordable rents and marketing support for the first year.

Ballymena Business Centre has already established a Town Centre Enterprise Hub in Church Street and the DoC should be replicating this model throughout all town and city centres.

“We urged the Minister to establish a Northern Ireland Town Team to co-ordinate Town Centre Regeneration policy. Membership

4

Pictured are, from left, Adrian Farrell, Portadown Chamber, Glyn Roberts, NIIRTA, Minister Paul Givan and Michael Donaghy, Banbridge Chamber.

of this would include Departments for Finance, Economy and Infrastructure, the 11 councils, retail and hospitality business organisations.

“NIIRTA wants to see a target date of 2019 for the full devolution of regeneration powers from DoC to the 11 councils to ensure they are in driving seat to develop their town centres.”

NEWS

Henderson Group investing £500,000 in 12 Deals of Christmas campaign H

enderson Group, owners of the SPAR, EUROSPAR and VIVO franchises in Northern Ireland, is rolling out a new Christmas deal initiative for their SPAR retail partners in the run up to the big day.

The company has invested £500,000 in its 12 Deals of Christmas campaign, which will allow retailers to offer their shoppers weekly money-saving deals on festive food essentials.

Research from the retailer showed that consumers prefer to start their Christmas shopping as early as August, which includes Christmas dinner and party essentials. They also found that picking up those added extras week by week saves money, rather than buying everything in one big shop.

The campaign, which kicks off on October 10 for 12 weeks, will be supported by TV and radio advertising, POS kits, an outdoor billboard campaign, leaflet drops, external signage and weekly shopper competitions to retain momentum over the three month period.

The campaign will also be visible on the SPAR Facebook and Twitter accounts, where followers will be able to win over £1,000 worth of prizes as the deals are announced each week, including headphones, vouchers, Christmas DVD box sets and the latest tech

must-haves.

“We have decided to go big with our Christmas incentive this year, and over the course of 12 weeks, shoppers at SPAR stores in Northern Ireland can make great savings for selected Christmas essentials from Coca Cola to Shloer, Clementines to Christmas chocolates and cocktail sausages,” said Paddy Doody, sales & marketing director at the Henderson Group.

“We know that our shoppers are keen

to save, and it is up to us as convenience retailers to ensure the best value is available at the most expensive time of the year. The products in our deals will be announced each week and will all be Christmas essentials. If every product is purchased each week, the collective savings are over £35.”

The deal will be available in all SPAR stores across Northern Ireland and will appear on promotional leaflets from September.

Deep RiverRock recognised for longterm effectiveness in advertising

D

eep RiverRock has been recognised for its long-term effectiveness in advertising at the IAPI ADFX Awards held at the InterContinental Hotel Dublin last month.

The ADFX Awards are held every two years to honour the most effective advertising campaigns that appeared in the Irish market and to recognise Pictured accepting the ADFX award are, from left, presenter Dara O’Briain the contribution these with Tara O’Rourke and Oonagh Gildea, Coca-Cola HBC Ireland (Deep campaigns make to RiverRock); Jane Ahlstrom, Mindshare; Susan Kelly, McCannBlue; Kate O’Leary, Mindshare; and Gavin Deans, Media Central. business success in Ireland.

Deep RiverRock was one of just two FMCG brands to win in the Long-Term Effectiveness Category, which covers all sectors and takes into consideration the success of a brand over a longer time frame, rather than measuring the impact of just one campaign. The awards are based on proof that long-term communications were key to a brand’s success.

The entry, How Advertising and Brand Building kept Deep RiverRock hydrated over 10 years, demonstrated the journey of a collaborative approach between the brand team and agencies, McCannBlue and Mindshare, which ultimately saw Deep RiverRock achieve the number one market share position in Ireland.

NIRC reports ‘encouraging’ footfall figures for August

F

ootfall in Northern Ireland’s retail sector increased by 2.5% in August against an increase of only 0.1% for the UK as a whole, according to the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium (NIRC) Springboard Footfall and Vacancies Monitor, marking the best monthly performance since May. However, the three-month average for Northern Ireland was flat, and the 12-month average down 1.2%.

5

perspective news

Local food and drink SMEs advised to capitalise on Big Data D

elegates at the fifth annual Appetite for Growth Conference were told the local food and drink industry must capitalise on ‘Big Data’ if the sector is to achieve the growth targets set out in the Going for Growth report.

The conference, which was organised by the Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association (NIFDA) and sponsored by Invest NI, Bank of Ireland UK, Sysco Software, Deloitte, and Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, aims to empower local food drink companies with knowledge and insight that can add value to their businesses and improve their competitiveness.

Dr Geoff Simmons from Queen’s University Management School advised delegates that the key to sustainable growth for food and drink companies is adopting a marketing strategy based on sound market intelligence.

Dr Simmons is currently involved in a threeyear project, funded primarily by Invest NI, which is supporting local agri-food firms to improve their marketing skills and market knowledge. To date 22 local companies have engaged with the project team, with plans to recruit more.

“There’s a lack of understanding amongst local agri-food firms, particularly the SMEs about what marketing really is,” said Dr Simmons. “Smaller companies typically don’t invest in market intelligence such as dunnhumby, Mintel, and Kantar Worldpanel, whereas their larger competitors do. This puts SMEs at a distinct disadvantage. Overall the sector is great at focusing on production and driving efficiency, but smaller companies, as well as some larger firms, need to improve their capacity ‘to do’ marketing in a more systematic and less ad hoc way.

“Within a rapidly changing, increasingly competitive environment, the case for a better understanding of consumer needs and wants is strong. Companies need to utilise the market intelligence available to them to analyse who their consumers are and what they want, before they decide on the best consumer segmentation, targeting positioning strategy and marketing mix for their products. Market intelligence has the power to transform businesses but only with a firm grasp of how to do marketing, and through this project we are aiming to integrate them.”

Tony Brown from Sysco Software also spoke on the benefits which can be realised through utilising Big Data. “Many companies are paying to capture data but failing to integrate it and utilise it properly,” he said.

6

Pictured are, from left, Glenn Roberts, partner at Deloitte; Alan Bridle, UK economist and market analyst, Bank of Ireland UK; Declan Billington, NIFDA chair; John Hood, director of Food and Tourism at Invest NI; and Tony Brown, commercial manager, Sysco Software.

“Making data work efficiently is essentially learning how to make money and save money from it. If you are paying to capture data,

Dr Geoff Simmons, senior lecturer, Queen’s University Management School.

then it is imperative that you utilise it in order to drive commercial advantage.”

Other speakers included retail analyst Dr Clive Black, who gave an overview of emerging retail trends and potential opportunities for local companies in the UK and Irish markets. Bank of Ireland UK’s Economist and Market Analyst Alan Bridle spoke about the strategic importance of the agri-food sector to the local economy, and explored the potential impacts of a changing economic landscape post-Brexit.

The conference also heard the preliminary findings of a Deloitte report, commissioned

by NIFDA, into the effect of Brexit on the sector. The report, which will be officially launched later in the year, will incorporate feedback and concerns from the local industry and will explore priorities for the NI Executive moving forward in relation to supporting Northern Ireland’s largest manufacturing industry.

Declan Billington, chairman of NIFDA, commented on the report, saying that the best way forward for the industry is to adopt a unified, proactive approach. “As an industry we must influence thinking on government policies post-Brexit and help to shape the future for the benefit of our industry. This report will assist us in taking our case before the Northern Ireland Executive, presenting hard facts and opportunities which must be addressed if this vibrant industry is to continue to thrive.”

NEWS

FSA study highlights the high cost of buying healthy food F

amilies need to spend up to £153 a week to eat a healthy balanced diet, almost half of their budget if on a low income or social welfare, according to a survey carried out by safefood, the Food Standards Agency in NI and the Consumer Council for NI. The Cost of a Healthy Food Emma Mitchell is a single parent with two children, who said she needs to spend the Basket survey majority of her income on food. highlights £153 as the cost of a weekly shop for a family made up of two parents, a teenager and a child in primary school, while a one parent, two children family would need to spend £99, and a pensioner living alone, £57.05.

“The report highlights the stark reality that low income households here need to spend up to 44% of their weekly take home income in order to purchase a minimum acceptable standard of food, while also meeting their nutrition and social needs,” said Sharon Gilmore, head of Standards and Dietary Health at the Food Standards Agency in NI. “Food poverty is complex. It affects those living on low incomes, with limited access to transport and poor cooking skills while many people in the same situation continue to have a healthy diet in spite of these obstacles.

“In trying to make a limited household budget go further by compromising on healthy foods, some households are ending up nutritionally poor.”

The consumer-led research calculated the cost of a healthy food basket for four of the most common household types in Northern Ireland, revealing the challenges facing low income families to balance the cost of a minimum nutritious diet while meeting other weekly household expenses.

Success of online shopping leads to jobs and investment by Asda NI A sda has announced further investment in its on-line shopping services across Northern Ireland. Over the last year, the retailer has seen a 10% increase in sales (yearon-year), resulting in the creation of 20 new jobs, investment in new delivery vehicles and improved customer service systems.

With home delivery available Provincewide and Asda’s free Click & Collect services offered in each of its 17 stores, Northern Ireland is one of the retailer’s top performing regions with an average of 10,000 e-commerce transactions taking place each week.

Asda’s Click & Collect service has been particularly successful with orders up by 26% on the same period last year. As well as offering a same day service, part of this success has been due to the roll out of an

enhanced ‘non-food’ Click &Collect solution for the popular George.com fashion and homeware brand. For every 100 Click & Collect orders placed, 40 are for non-grocery items.

To support the growth, Asda is creating 20 new jobs across five of its busiest stores spanning delivery drivers and personal shopper roles. The company is also investing in new home delivery vans and customer support systems such as WISMO (Where Is My Order) to track and inform shoppers of precise delivery details, update on product substitutions and the total cost of their order.

Another element in the growth of home shopping is the response to Asda’s bespoke ‘ToYou’ parcel collection and returns service.

Launched in 2015, ToYou enables customers to use its stores to collect/return orders

Courtauld Commitment 2025 represents 95% of UK food retail

I

ndustry’s voluntary agreement The Courtauld Commitment 2025, brokered by not-for-profit organisation WRAP, continues to grow with 30 new signatories joining the 10-year commitment to reduce the resource intensity of the UK’s food and drink industry since March.

Courtauld 2025 now includes food and drink businesses representing 95% of the 2016 UK food retail market, as well as many leading brands, manufacturers and hospitality and food service companies.

NSAI issues Brexit advice to GB suppliers

T

he National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) is warning Irish businesses, particularly those trading with Britain, to gain certification to international standards ahead of Brexit.

British pre-qualification requirements for tendering may soon demand certification to ISO international standards as a prerequisite, said NSAI. placed with other retail partners including Misguided, ASOS, M&Co and most recently, Fat Face.

“The local appetite for online shopping is ever increasing and we’ve listened to our customers and provided a range of e-Commerce options which offer the choice, flexibility and convenience to suit their changing needs,” said Samuel Watson, regional ecommerce manager for Asda NI. “This will be further boosted through our investment in our team, fleet and systems. As we approach the busiest time of the year for the retail sector, our focus is on making sure we provide the most convenient and accessible experience to all our customers – whether they’re on mobile, online or in-store.”

7

RETAIL NEWS perspective – INDEPENDENTS

National Minimum Wage increases coming into force this month A

ccounting, payroll and payment systems provider Sage is offering advice to retailers and other employers to ensure their workers are paid correctly following the introduction of National Minimum Wage increases on October 1.

“Whilst great news for employees, the National Minimum Wage increase is the latest in a long list of changes that businesses need to implement, adding to the administrative burden for business owners and leaders,” said Dan Docherty, head of People Products at Sage in the UK. “At Sage, we champion the UK’s small and medium businesses – they create two thirds of the jobs in the UK, powering our economy – and we want businesses to know they are supported and there is help out there to make implementation less painful, so they can get back to focusing on delivering their business goals.

“Technology is continually advancing and adapting in line with new legislation to ensure that it’s quick and easy for businesses to be compliant. For example, online payroll systems have a significant role to play in helping give businesses the reassurance that workers will be paid correctly in line with the new National Minimum Wage, as well as flagging other impacts for consideration in relation to employees and the wider business.”

To ensure compliance, Sage recommends following this checklist:

1. Avoid penalties from HM Revenue & Customs (HRMC) for not paying the National Minimum Wage: In a nutshell, businesses need to make sure that they understand which employees are eligible for which rates, what the correct rates are, that the company payroll is updated in time for 1 October 2016 and communicate any changes to their employees. This is a timely reminder to ensure that as an absolute minimum, businesses have all of the correct details on file for their employees, such as date of birth, to make sure they’re in the correct pay bracket. Online payroll systems can do this for you and alert you to any potential risks or non-compliance. This technology can also support with understanding exemptions and entitlements, which can change from sector to sector, and slightly different calculations for hourly-paid versus salaried employees.

Remember, HMRC has the right to carry out NMW checks – businesses should make sure that their online systems keep this data for the three-year minimum HMRC requires.

2. Pension Auto Enrolment: Until now, your minimum wage workforce may have been under the threshold for auto enrolment. The National Minimum Wage update is likely to lift more employees into the auto enrolment bracket – therefore businesses will have to assess who in their workforce this will apply to, and communicate with their employees and pension providers as appropriate.

3. What other impacts and opportunities could this change have on your business? This change isn’t just about how much you are paying your employees per month, there will also be knock-on impacts on business cash flow to think about too, such as subsequent increases in tax and National Insurance (NI).

It’s worth looking to technology to help take away some of those payroll headaches – for example, Sage 50 Payroll can carry out salary reviews, which forecasts the impact of any salary change across your entire workforce including pension tax and NI.

NMW increases applying from October 1 From October 1, the minimum hourly rate most workers must be paid increased as follows: • £6.95 per hour – 21-24 year old (from £6.70: 2015) • £5.55 per hour – 18 - 20 years old (from £5.30: 2015) • £4 per hour – 16-17 years old (from £3.87: 2015) • £3.40 for apprentices under 19 or 19 or over who are in the first year of apprenticeship (from £3.30: 2015).

Promotions fail to ignite sales for UK retailers T

he effectiveness of retail promotions has been called into question by FMCG market intelligence and insight provider IRI, following its three-year study of 85,000 promotions.

Reality does not match expectation when it comes to sales, according to IRI, with a category only growing by 0.13% on average when on promotion.

Of the 85,000 promotions analysed, over half had a negative category impact and multi-buys are not working, says IRI. While retailers are already moving away from deep discount multi-buys towards clearer price cuts and ‘round pound’ deals, the study shows that multibuys have had little or no impact on sales at a category level.

“It seems that promotions are not necessarily driving sales growth as much as the industry expects,” said Thomas 8

Hall, analytics programme director, IRI. “Unfortunately, the UK leads the world when it comes to promotional reliance, with over half of all goods sold on promotion (54.6% by volume) according to our Price & Promotion in Western Europe report published last year.

“We do know that promotions play a much bigger role in terms of driving footfall and increased basket size. There are also sizeable listing fees paid by manufacturers for promotions, display space and preferential listings, which help to offset some of the sales revenue losses. This always needs to be taken into account when looking at how promotions help retailers grow.”

The IRI study also shows that private label promotions perform significantly worse than brands, driving down overall category sales value by -0.35%. Without

manufacturers funding these promotions, they are draining category value at an alarming rate.

However, the outlook is not all bad when it comes to promotions. Convenience stores are seeing the biggest benefits, with growth of over 2.5% in category turnover when promotions are used.

Even within the major multiples, IRI is seeing large differences in promotional performance. For example, multibuys can deliver +/- 0.3% category impact across different chains, and are more successful in premium chains, while price cuts are more successful in mass-market retailers.

At the category level, tissues, cheese, meal kits and frozen food promotions are the leading areas that deliver revenue growth for their respective categories within grocery retailers.

RETAIL NEWS – SYMBOLS

Retailer pledges one million meals to tackle extreme hunger H

enderson Group, the owners of the SPAR and EUROSPAR brands in Northern Ireland has announced support for Christian international aid and development agency, Tearfund for 2016.

From September 28, the Group will be donating 10p from the sale of any of their enjoy local breakfast bread products, enjoy local Launching the SPAR and EUROSPAR Tearfund campaign for 2016 are Paddy Doody, White Medium Pan, and sales & marketing director at the Henderson Group, presenter Claire McCollum and Derek Hall from Tearfund. all Kingsmill and Hovis sliced loaves sold in SPAR or EUROSPAR to the charity, to help fund 1 million meals for families in West & Central African countries.

Presenter Claire McCollum joined Paddy Doody, sales & marketing director at the Henderson Group and Derek Hall from Tearfund to launch this year’s campaign.

“The aid that Tearfund continue to offer to families in Chad and other countries is extremely important, so we are proud to have them as one of our dedicated charities for the past four years,” said Doody. “It costs around just 16p to provide one meal for a family somewhere like Chad, so for every SPAR enjoy local breakfast bread product and sliced loaf, Kingsmill and Hovis loaves of bread purchased in SPAR and EUROSPAR stores, 10p will be donated to Tearfund. We’re aiming to provide up to one million meals for the country, so our target is to raise £165,000.”

Derek Hall from Tearfund said: “This campaign will help us and our overseas partners tackle extreme hunger throughout projects predominantly based in West & Central Africa. Providing meals is only part of our job.”

Stephen Clements announced as Action Cancer Ambassador L

ocal personality Stephen Clements of Q Radio’s breakfast show has been announced as Action Cancer’s Health Action programme Ambassador.

The children’s health education programme, sponsored by retail group Centra, has visited an impressive 500,000 children throughout Northern Ireland since 2003 and, with Stephen’s help, aims to reach even more.

Figures released by the charity Pictured with Stephen Clements are King’s Park Primary School, Newtownabbey, pupils Ross and Heidi Campbell. reveal that cancer prevention sessions, featuring information about being fit and active, eating well, being safe in the sun and avoiding the dangers of smoking and alcohol, have been brought to more than 1,000 nurseries, schools and colleges.

Action Cancer and Centra formed a partnership 13 years ago in support of the award-winning Health Action project, which is the only one of its kind in the Province. The number of young people taking part in Health Action roadshows is at an all-time high, and is fuelled by more than £1m of funding raised by Centra stores and Musgrave Northern Ireland.

New Nisa meal deal aims to feed the family for a fiver

N

isa is helping busy parents ‘feed the family’ on a budget with its new £5 meal deal, providing an easy and affordable tea time meal solution for families.

The promotion, which launched last month, will offer a different range of products every three weeks at just £5 and is aimed at parents with busy lifestyles wanting to pick up a convenient mid-week evening meal without breaking the bank.

The first meal deal, which ran in conjunction with Nisa’s Back to School campaign, featured Birds Eye Chicken Dippers (or Quorn Meat-free Chicken Nuggets as a vegetarian alternative), Aunt Bessie’s Crispy Homestyle Chips, Heritage Petits Pois and Heritage Neopolitan Ice Cream.

The meal deal is supported instore with PoS including posters and shelf talkers, in addition to featuring in consumer leaflets and on adverts over Nisa Radio. Selected stores will also benefit from additional PoS such as hanging signs, freezer window stickers and shelf stripping.

“We are delighted to be able to launch this fantastic £5 meal deal which not only provides a great value meal solution for consumers but will also help our members to drive footfall and additional sales,” said Greg Goodwin, head of fresh and frozen at Nisa.

“This is just one of the ways in which we aim to help our retailers to establish a reputation within their community for convenience, quality and excellent value for money.”

9

RETAIL EVENT

Musgrave hosts successful retailer showcase

Musgrave NI Marketing Director Michelle Fennell and SuperValu Ambassador Chef Noel McMeel

M

ore than 150 retailers across the SuperValu and Centra brands attended Musgrave NI’s annual retailer showcase, held on September 21 at the Galgorm Resort and Spa, Co Antrim.

The showcase featured the latest range and best practice execution across a number of key categories including Food to Go, Coffee, Bakery, Ambient Grocery, Chilled Convenience, Produce, Health, Meat and Wine.

There was also a live cookery demonstration by SuperValu Ambassador Chef Noel McMeel and Centra Nutritionist Jane McClenaghan, with retailers enjoying samples of a number of new ranges and recipes.

“This year’s Retailer Showcase was hugely successful with fantastic feedback from our SuperValu and Centra retailers across Northern Ireland,” said Ciara McClafferty, trading director at Musgrave. “We now host the showcase annually as it is key in giving our retailers a chance to view the latest offers for their brands and hear about new and exciting opportunities for their stores.”

8 • •Ulster 3610 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

Musgrave NI Managing Director Michael McCormack with Roy Livingstone and Declan Watson of Watson’s Centra Portaferry

Musgrave NI Trading Director Ciara McClafferty and Wholesale Director Trevor Magill

SuperValu and Centra Sales Director Nigel Maxwell with Gabriel Bell and Darren Fitzpatrick of Bell’s SuperValu Crossgar

RETAIL NEWS – MULTIPLES

EUROSPAR and VIVOXTRA sponsor ReadOn initiative E

Jodie Preshur of EUROSPAR joins Cancer Fund for Children Schools Fundraiser Rebecca Oates and Wallace High School pupils Matthew McMaster, Charlotte McMaster and Chloe Mooney to launch the charity’s ReadOn initiative.

UROSPAR and VIVOXTRA are once again supporting Cancer Fund for Children’s ReadOn campaign, encouraging pupils from across Northern Ireland to pick up a book for a good cause.

The charity initiative encourages both primary and secondary pupils to read for pleasure, whilst also raising money to support local children living with cancer in Northern Ireland, and their families. Pupils are sponsored to read a book of their choice, at home or in school.

This is the third year the convenience stores, which are part of the Henderson Group, have sponsored Cancer Fund for Children’s ReadOn campaign.

“We are absolutely delighted to be part of this fantastic schools campaign again,” said Bronagh Luke, head of Corporate Marketing at the Henderson Group. “I would urge as many schools as possible to sign up and support this great cause.”

Cancer Fund for Children helps families by providing practical, emotional and financial support from the point of diagnosis and throughout their cancer journey. Funds raised from ReadOn will go directly towards providing support to local children and their families affected by cancer.

Schools signing up receive a free ReadOn pack with posters and teachers’ resources. Every pupil will receive a bookmark and pencil as a thank you, and the school may also be in with a chance of receiving a visit from Ollie, the ReadOn owl.

For a free ReadOn pack and information about how to get involved, email rebecca@cancerfundforchildren.com or phone 028 9080 5599.

Avondale Foods wins Side Dish accolade at Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards

C

ook at Home Potato Gratin from Dunnes, produced by Lurgan based Avondale Foods, scooped the award in the Side Dish category of the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards 2016.

The Awards, hosted by Ballymaloe celebrity chef and cookery author Rachel Allen were held in the Round Room at the Mansion House, in Dublin last month.

“We are extremely proud of our team at Avondale Foods and the care that goes into the initial development of the product and then production of our Potato Gratin for Dunnes,” said Colin Ferguson, head of Sales Ireland at Avondale Foods. “We were absolutely thrilled to win our category and winning this award goes to show that the judges liked the product too.”

Dunnes Cook at Home Potato Gratin features layers of sliced Rooster potatoes, with a rich creamy sauce, topped with grated regato cheese. It is available in Dunnes Stores across Ireland as part of the comprehensive Dunnes Stores Cook at Home Range.

James Wilson, food director at Dunnes Stores said: “We are so happy and proud to work with Avondale Foods and other great suppliers across all our own label ranges to produce such good quality

Pictured at the Irish Quality Food Awards are Helen Lyons, Irish Quality Food Awards; Colin Ferguson, Avondale Foods; John Hickey, Dunnes Stores; Lorraine Boyle, Dunnes Stores; Diane Christie, Avondale Foods; and Ballymaloe celebrity chef and cookery author Rachel Allen.

products. We are particularly proud to win the category award for our Cook at Home Range in this its first year of production.”

SuperValu Ballymoney cycles and walks its way to £15,000

S

Pictured with Ian Elliott store manager of SuperValu Ballymoney, are Geoff Johnston, customer manager at SuperValu and Gillian Thomson from Action Cancer.

uperValu Ballymoney has raised £15,000 for local charity Action Cancer by walking and cycling 500 miles in 10 days.

Eight members of staff completed the arduous walk and cycle around Northern Ireland, calling in at all 34 SuperValu shops in the Province, to raise vital funds for Action Cancer’s Big Bus, which is sponsored by SuperValu and is this year celebrating its 10th birthday.

The team set off from the SuperValu store in Kells on September 10, finishing in Belfast on September 19. During the 10-day challenge, the staff remaining at SuperValu Ballymoney were also doinging their bit to support the team on the road with fundraising events and competitions for customers.

“We wanted to do something different to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Action Cancer’s Big Bus, which is dedicated to saving lives and supporting people across local communities in Northern Ireland,” said Ian Elliott, store manager at McCool’s SuperValu.

11

BBC Good Food Show in Belfast – a ‘cracking day out’

BY MICHELE SHIRLOW, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, FOOD NI

O

ctober sees the much anticipated BBC Good Food Show, one of the most successful consumer shows for the UK food and drink industry, open its doors in Belfast for the very first time.

And it’s an event that we are all looking forward to here at Food NI. I urge retailers across Northern Ireland to grasp the opportunity and support what should be another major event in the already hugely successful Year of Food & Drink programme. I am sure they will find it a rewarding experience to a visit a colourful event that’s regarded by the likes of Mary Berry in Britain as “a cracking day out”.

Food NI will have a major presence at what looks certain to be one of the most important events of its kind during Year of Food & Drink. We hope that it will become a regular event here.

Our Food Pavilion will showcase a host of local companies of all sizes and from virtually every sector of our biggest

OCTOBER EVENTS

Year of Food & Drink continues with Harvest month N orthern Ireland Year of Food & Drink 2016 is a celebration of everything that makes local produce so good including epic landscapes, time-honoured traditions and the people and producers behind its food heritage. The theme for October is Harvest.

OCTOBER 1 Northern Ireland Potato Festival 10am-5pm, The Causeway Hotel, Bushmills

OCTOBER 14-16 BBC Good Food Show NI All day, Belfast Waterfront

OCTOBER 8-9 Slow Food Showcase Event 12-6pm, Guildhall Square, Derry~Londonderry

OCTOBER 15 Apple Day at The Ballance House 12pm, Lisburn Road

OCTOBER 9-10 Peninsula Food Showcase: Loaves and Fishes 11am-5pm, Ballywalter Park, Newtownards

OCTOBER 29 Ghostly Greyabbey 5-9pm, Grey Abbey Graveyard Grounds

OCTOBER 8-16 Belfast Restaurant Week Events/promotions around Belfast

8 • •Ulster 3612 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

The theme for NOVEMBER IS Legacy & Learn to...

For more information on getting involved in Year of Food & Drink 2016, visiT WWW.DISCOVERIRELAND.COM

and most successful manufacturing industry.

Visitors will be able to talk to producers, taste their products and buy the superb local produce that will be on show.

The event will take place from October 14-16 in the new conference centre at the Waterfront Hall. Bringing a show which has such a strong following in Great Britain to Northern Ireland represents a tremendous commitment by Invest Northern Ireland and Tourism NI. Food NI has been working very closely with both bodies to ensure that the tremendous success the show enjoys in London, Birmingham, Harrogate and Glasgow is replicated here in Belfast.

It’s important for the Northern Ireland food and drink industry, because Great Britain is our biggest single market and one that should grow substantially post Brexit.

The positive PR the show attracts in Britain could benefit efforts by our companies to boost sales there.

The show has an impact on retailers in Britain and also with the type of influential consumer magazines that we are working with to increase awareness of the outstanding quality and taste of our food and drink.

I know the organisers been seeking partners here over many years to enable them to introduce a BBC Good Food Show to Belfast.

They will be bringing a winning formula of food and entertainment from Britain to Belfast.

There’ll also be a host of local food and drink companies along with live culinary demonstrations by the likes of chefs James Martin and Paul Hollywood and the colourful Hairy Bikers. Paul Rankin and other local chefs such as Niall McKenna of James St South, Eipic’s Danni Barry and Emmet McCourt from Londonderry will also have important roles to play in the cookery presentations. And rightly so. Because we now have a cadre of very talented chefs doing a tremendous job by creating highly innovative dishes from local produce and also working with smaller producers to develop their product.

BBC Good Food Show is going to be a marvellous showcase of innovation during our first ever Year of Food & Drink, which has already attracted great supporters from local retailers and led to business with many smaller producers here. With 3,000 tickets already sold, BBC Good Food is set to be a roaring success which enables retailers to keep abreast of new products from local suppliers.

YEAR of FOOD & DRINK

Ann’s Pantry named as Northern Ireland’s Best Bakery A

nn’s Pantry has risen to the challenge, and lifted the title of Northern Ireland’s Best Bakery in a competition organised by BBC Good Food Show Northern Ireland and Tourism NI to celebrate Year of Food & Drink Bread & Bakery month in September.

To enter, bakeries were asked to submit a short video capturing ‘a day in the life of the bakery’ highlighting all the stages of a typical day at the bakery – from choosing the finest ingredients, to baking their products and serving to local customers.

All videos were of a very high standard and five bakeries were shortlisted – Belfast Baking Company, The Heatherlea, Ann’s Pantry, Knead Bakery and Cookie Jar, alongside the winner of the most shares and likes via social media, The Rosehip Café and Bakery.

The shortlisted bakeries sent a selection of their baked goods to a tasting day where judges, including Aine Kearney from Tourism Northern Ireland, Michele Shirlow from Food NI and lecturers Lorna Johnston and Mark Magee from the NI Home Bakery School at Belfast Metropolitan College tried a range of products. Ann’s Pantry stood out as a clear winner of the coveted title of Northern

8 • Ulster Grocer | JANUARY 2011

Ireland’s Best Bakery while judge also highly commended Knead Bakery.

Judges scored a range of criteria including taste and appearance on three separate categories – fermented, savoury and sweet.

Ann’s Pantry’s fermented category included Guinness Wheaten Bread, Soda Bread and Crusty Bap, and was described as having been baked beautifully and having a good feel.

The savoury category included potato bread, sausage roll and steak and ale pie, and was commended for tasty meat and good pie filling. Finally the sweet category included carrot cake which had great flavour, a shortbread which was described as the best in the selection and fifteens which were highlighted as being very tasty.

Ann’s Pantry will receive a free stand at the BBC Good Food Show Northern Ireland at Belfast Waterfront over October 14-16, plus the opportunity to meet local celebrity chef Paul Rankin at the Show. Co-owner of Ann’s Pantry, Helen Porter, said that the whole bakery team was “over the moon” at the award and are looking forward to showcasing their produce to thousands of food loving visitors.

Helping to support bakers with innovative thinking at Andrew Ingredients, Lisburn, were, from left, John Graham, director, Andrew Ingredients, Michele Shirlow from Food NI and BBC Victorian Baker, John Foster MBE.

Andrew Ingredients hosts Thinking outside the bap workshop

I

nnovation and quality was part of the mix at a recent Thinking outside the bap workshop held at Andrew Ingredients, Lisburn, supplier of ingredients to the baking and food industry across Ireland. The workshop part of NI Year of Food & Drink Bread & Baking month, an initiative led by Tourism NI and Food NI - provided bakers from across Ireland with the opportunity to meet and discuss current topics of interest within the baking industry with guest speaker John Foster MBE from Foster’s Bakery, Barnsley and BBC’s Victorian Bakers.

13

My Life in the Grocery Trade Jonathan McWhinney, packaged food buyer for Tesco Northern Ireland Witnessing first-hand the development of great local brands and watching them expand their business with Tesco – and getting to sample some amazing products!

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT ROLE? Packaged food buyer for Tesco Northern Ireland. Responsible for the management of all Northern Ireland products in Ambient Foods, Frozen Foods, Beers, Wines & Spirits and Plants/Horticulture. I work with local suppliers to help grow their brands within Tesco and bring new products to market, managing each product with the correct promotional and pricing strategy to remain competitive and bring value to the customer.

BRIEFLY OUTLINE YOUR EMPLOYMENT HISTORY TO DATE I started Tesco in September 2010 as part of the trainee management scheme – working towards the role of stock control and merchandising.

Having completed the training and being signed off as a manager in March 2011, I worked in Newtownabbey store for a year and then moved to become part of the team which opened Castlereagh Road superstore.

I then got signed to the Senior Team options program in March 2013 – going out on my placement in October of the same year – to run Cregagh Road superstore. After six months, I then moved to a larger store, Bentrim Road, and in June 2015 I moved to the largest store in Northern Ireland Newtownbreda where I was lead manager for Grocery and General Merchandise.

WHAT DOES YOUR ROLE INVOLVE? In my role as packaged food buyer, I build upon new and existing relationships with suppliers by helping them grow their brands within Tesco NI. I support our many local suppliers with the right promotional planning

14

BRIEFLY OUTLINE A TYPICAL DAY In the office for 08.30am/9am, check emails – usually a lot first thing in the morning. Work on supplier agreements and promotional activity, and ensure new products are listed correctly. Hold supplier meetings to discuss progress and performance of their products and what new products are in the pipeline. If there is a potential new supplier, then a site visit is essential. Look at current ranges and identify opportunities to help improve performance or rationalise range and help improve the customer offering.

for their brands, and help them to bring new products to market by advising them with product design, content, accreditation and packaging. If a particular product isn’t working, then I help the supplier to try to improve their offering, which may mean re-branding the product or tweaking the promotional strategy for example.

WHAT ARE THE BEST PARTS OF YOUR JOB? The best part of this job is definitely meeting new people and building great relationships within the grocery and retail business.

WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT BEING INVOLVED WITH THE LOCAL RETAIL INDUSTRY? Getting to work with amazing brands – many of which are household names in Northern Ireland and seeing products that we have helped develop together hit the shelves and watch customers enjoy them and see those brands achieve great success.

We are a small country but have so many great local producers who create amazing brands that we all love and enjoy.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO TO UNWIND AWAY FROM WORK? Big golf fan, both playing and watching.

I am a member of Malone Golf Club in Belfast and try to play as much as I can when I get some time off. I am also a big foodie – I feel cooking is a great way to relax! And if I am not cooking, I am trying new restaurants.

FOOD & DRINKs NEWS

Tayto wins top award for food waste prevention C

o Armagh-based Tayto has been awarded the Food Waste Prevention and Management Award at the Sustainable Ireland Awards, for its innovative approach to managing food waste.

Tayto received the prestigious award, sponsored by Macpac, at a recent ceremony in the Ramada Hotel, Belfast. The accolade is in recognition of the company’s effective management of the reduction of waste, in particular food waste, water and packaging waste, generated from the crisp and snack manufacturing processes.

Under parent company Tayto Group, Tayto owns four additional factories in the UK and has a portfolio that includes household brands Golden Wonder, Mr Porky, Real Crisps and Jonathan Crisp. With more than 1,500 employees across the sites, the Group’s headquarters remain in Tayto Castle, Tandragee.

“We are delighted to have been named as the winner in this important category,” said Nicholas Cowan, Group environmental manager. “We continually strive to improve our environmental credentials and reducing waste across our factories, as well as decreasing the amount of potential waste entering and leaving the supply chain, is key to our operational ethos.

“Our Tandragee production facility has long served as a test bed for new and innovative technologies, particularly with regards to production efficiency, environment and sustainability. Tayto Castle is

Tayto Group Environmental Director Nicholas Cowan (centre), receives the Food Waste Prevention and Management Award from local TV personality Adrian Logan (left) and Drew Stewart of category sponsor, Macpac (right).

currently host to a holistic programme of waste management measures, aimed at addressing overuse of raw materials, utilities and reducing the impact of trade effluent.

“We have made significant progress, having reduced production waste at Tandragee alone in the past two years by more than 41%, with a 38% cut in the wastage of packaging materials and a decrease in water consumption by upwards of 32%.”

Sauce Works launches new My Goodness range

C

o Down company Sauce Works has just introduced a new range of ambient sauces for the retail sector, which boast innovative new packaging and come in 10 flavours.

The My Goodness range by Sauce Works is the first sauce range in Ireland to use a top down bottle with non-drip lid, which will deliver standout on retailers’ shelves.

The unique 400ml bottles are designed to ensure consumers can easily get the most out of each bottle of My Goodness sauce.

Made from high density polyethylene, the bottles are lightweight and perfectly shaped to be comfortably held in the hand.

Four new sauce flavours join the existing Sauce Works favourites, Ole’ Miss, a smooth sauce with a Southern tang; Honey Mustard which brings sweet heat to sandwiches, salads and chicken dishes; smokey Southwest Chipotle; and the popular sandwich classic, Tikka Mayo.

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

15

FOOD & DRINKs news

Consumer Insight and Market Update

BY JASON WINSTANLEY, MOY PARK SENIOR INSIGHT AND RESEARCH MANAGER HALLOWEEN – TRICK OR TREAT FOR CONSUMERS? So, with the barbeque and flip flops packed away for another year, the nights are drawing in, and thoughts are turning towards Christmas. Or rather, a few years ago, they would have been. These days, we are just about to enter a whole new ‘season of seasonality’.

In the 70s and 80s, Halloween might have represented good news for a few manufacturers of toffee, apples and turnips, (what with pumpkins being an exotic commodity in those days) but, in the 21st century, it has become a huge seasonal event in its own right.

Retail sales of Halloween products have been estimated by Mintel at £275m1, which, as a market, values it at about the same size as the whole of Fresh Coated Poultry2. Mintel also found that, at Halloween 2014, 52% of UK consumers bought products for trick or treaters, with a similar number buying for their own children. Whilst there is no

doubt that this is a seasonal event which is primarily aimed at, and driven by, children, (purchasing of Halloween food is highest amongst parents of the under 12s, at 78%), over a third of Halloween food shoppers also express an interest in buying premium food and drink products for adults3. For the period approaching Halloween, 58% of consumers say that they expect to buy food for it, and 46% are planning to celebrate the occasion with alcohol4. Increasingly, then, this looks like a seasonal event where continued innovation and premiumisation can only help it to grow in importance as consumers who have grown up with it as an event continue to participate.

And there is also a new kid on the seasonal block… and that is appropriate terminology, because, although it lags a long way behind its more established counterpart, Thanksgiving is an American autumnal event which is gaining traction in the UK. Whilst currently, only 7% of us say that we would consider doing something

Mash Direct wins ‘Irish Food Oscar’ in Dublin for Vegetable Burgers

M

ash Direct picked up an Irish Quality Food Award for its Vegetable Burgers at the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards in Mansion House, Dublin last month.

Judges were complementary about the Mash Direct Vegetable Burgers, saying they are ‘Perfectly balanced.

Lovely flavours which dance on the palate. Cabbage is so mild, carrot is perfect, parsnip perfect too and pepper enhances the flavour. Packaging is very good. This is an exceptionally superb product’.

The Vegetable Burgers were also recognised at The Tracy Hamilton, director Grocer New Product Awards in London in 2015, and collected a silver award in the Free From Food Awards Ireland 2016.

“We are extremely proud to have won this award, as we were up against such excellent competition from major retailers and brands such as Mr. Crumb,” said Tracy Hamilton, director of Mash Direct. “As a Northern Irish company growing our brand in Ireland, being recognised for this award gives our team great encouragement to continue our success in Ireland. It is a real testament to the hard work that the whole team puts in every day.”

Mash Direct has also been shortlisted for Regional Growth Business of the Year at the Food and Drink Federation Awards at the end of September, to be held in Barbican, London.

16

special to mark the occasion5, more than double that number say that, of the autumnal events, Thanksgiving is the one to which they are most looking forward4. Anybody who is sceptical about the prospects for Thanksgiving only has to review the American influence on Halloween in recent years to realise that potential certainly exists in this area.

Altogether, over three-quarters of consumers say they celebrate at least one of the autumn seasonal events4, and, with costumes and masks to try on, Halloween, especially, is an important driver of footfall into store for retailers at an important time of year. As well as being important in their own right, autumn events also act as a key signpost that it’s only six weeks till Christmas… and that’s the point where seasonality takes on a whole new meaning.

Sources: 1 – Mintel Seasonal Shopping (Autumn/ Winter) UK, April 2015; 2 – Kantar Worldpanel 52 weeks to 14th August 2016; 3 - Mintel Attitudes to Seasonal Celebrations Foods UK, September 2015; 4 – Moy Park research, September 2016; 5 – Moy Park research, March 2016

Ministerial visit for Clements Eggs

E

conomy Minister Simon Hamilton is pictured with Philip Clements (junior) and Philip Clements (senior), owners of Clements Eggs in Carrowdore which was recently awarded a gold star in the prestigious Great Taste awards.

TESCO TASTE

Tesco Taste Festival: The tastiest yet Local producers celebrate 20 years of supplying Tesco Economy Minister Simon Hamilton opens this year’s Tesco Taste Festival.

T

he eighth annual Tesco Taste Festival landed in Custom House Square last month with a bigger bang than ever before, with more than 25,000 consumers attending over the weekend.

Bringing together more than 60 suppliers from Northern Ireland and the Republic, the Festival has become one of the region’s most important food events, highlighting the quality of local produce directly to shoppers as well as showcasing it on a national stage.

This year’s event welcomed the biggest contingent of Tesco commercial buyers from Great Britain, who between them have a buying power of a billion pounds. With exporting high on the agenda for many local suppliers, the exposure to these GB colleagues can prove to be invaluable to helping some realise their ambitious growth plans.

Visitors were treated to some new products for the first time also, with Northern Ireland’s favourite crisp brand, Tayto, revealing three moreish popcorn flavours. Bread and bun aficionados sampled the latest treats created by the baking masters at Genesis, Grahams and Scott’s, including Graham’s Cracking Caramels and Coconut Snowballs, two new additions to Scott’s miniature range – high tea cakes and carrot cake – and Genesis’ whirls and tartlets.

On the back of its recent £450,000 deal with Tesco, Cloughbane Farm Foods showcased its 11-strong range of farm-inspired ready meals not to mention many more delights from the likes of TS Foods, Mash Direct, Golden Popcorn and Maine Soft Drinks.

Back-to-back activity throughout the weekend included a special FoodNI cookery theatre, with Great British Menu stalwart and proprietor of the UK’s best local restaurant, Wine and Brine’s Chris McGowan, cooking up a storm with his favourite local produce and Forestside’s Stephen Jeffers delighting the audience with his chosen menu.

There was entertainment for all the family with Ark Open Farm’s petting zoo, a climbing wall, roving entertainers, plus live music from the Belfast Community Gospel Choir and authentic pipers.

In the Northern Ireland Year of Food & Drink, the Tesco Taste Festival pulled out all the stops to celebrate the wealth of produce here on our shores.

Among exhibitors at this year’s Tesco Taste Festival were UG’s cover stars, all of whom have been supplying the retailer since it entered the local market

Esther Jackson and Stuart Best at White’s.

Keny Love and Oliver McCann of McCann’s Apples.

Other speakers included Brendan Guidera, store director at Tesco NI.

Wilsons Country with Angus Wilson and Natalie Matthews.

17

TESCO TASTE

Local produce steals the show at Tesco Taste This year’s Tesco Taste Festival highlighted the range and innovation on offer from local food and drink suppliers

Jenna McMurtry and Annika Latimer of Sunblest

Liz McKee and Christine O’neill with the new Fire & Smoke range at Dennys

18

Ulster Rugby’s Rory Best on the Glenisk stand with Natalie Orr and Melissa Riddell

TESCO TASTE

The Hovis stand, with Billy Thompson, Kerry Maxwell and Barry Spence

Edward Chester and Wendy Donaldson at Cookstown

TS Foods, with Anna Hazzard, Joanne Molloy and Paul Hughes

John and Eileen Hall of Cavanagh Free Range Eggs

Golden Cow/Coleraine with Jean Trimble and Florence Montgomery

Margaret Sherrard and Lauren Boyd at Dale Farm

Sarah McGrenaghan and Olivia Hamilton of Irwin’s

Doherty& Gray/Hull’s with Gavin Thompson and Kate McKeown

Tim Graham of Grahams Bakery Dromore

The Tayto stand with Lauren and Jill Uprichard, Robert W.G. Brown and Lynore Wolsey

Philip Mills and Laura Eidanaite at Johnsons Coffee

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

19

TESCO TASTE

Kerry Foods roll out latest Fire and Smoke innovation K

erry Foods sampled a new bacon range to the public at this year’s Tesco Taste Festival, under its successful Denny Fire and Smoke brand launched in 2015.

“We were delighted to be here again,” said Mark Hewitt, national account manager, Kerry Foods. “Having supported the show each year since it started, it’s a great opportunity to showcase what’s great in Northern Ireland food.

“We featured Fire and Smoke from Denny, including our range of sliced cooked meats and the new product range of Fire and Smoke Bacon at the show. The consumer response has been very positive, users of sliced cooked meats are welcoming the opportunity to enjoy the Fire and Smoke concept through the new innovative Bacon range.

“Fire and Smoke is a sensational premium crafted meat which has taken inspiration from the pitmaster craft of the American Deep South using fire and smoke cooking methods to create seven pre-packed lines spanning ham, chicken, turkey and two deli counter lines, and has been extended to three new bacon lines.

“By offering consumers great taste and choice, Fire and Smoke inspires usage and ultimately category growth. Judging by the numbers of consumers already enjoying the great taste of Fire and Smoke we expect sales to go from strength to strength.”

Fire and Smoke has already picked up a number of awards, the latest being an Anuga Taste award for New Innovation as well as an Irish Quality Food Award win and a Checkout National FMCG award for best new food product launch.

20

TESCO TASTE

Mark Austin and Joanne Beattie of Robert Roberts.

Robert Roberts showcases its pods and new pack designs at Tesco Taste O

nce again Robert Roberts had an incredible couple of days at this year’s Tesco Taste NI show. The show itself seems to get bigger and bigger every year and this, the show’s eighth instalment, was no exception. We loved the late night Friday opening hours which gave more people a chance to call down and see the event after finishing work. Feedback from our customers was fantastic as ever with many commenting on our new stand which we had designed for the show.

As an event, Tesco Taste allows us to communicate directly with our customers and also showcase our products to potential future consumers. This year we sampled over 1,000 cups of our Robert Roberts coffee during the course of the three-day event and that’s not including our fellow stand holders who queued with us each morning to get their fix.

Lots of consumers who stopped and chatted to us on the stand couldn’t believe the variety of local foods sold into Tesco and with a huge number of stalls and exhibitors each year there really is something for everyone at the show. For Robert Roberts, the opportunity to sample our freshly made coffee makes all the difference with many customers tasting our coffee and vowing to hunt it out during their next trip to Tesco.

Speaking after the event Joanne Beattie, 8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

brand manager for Robert Roberts, said she was “thrilled to see the Tesco Taste event growing year after year. We always love coming to this show as it gives us the opportunity to interact with our consumers and sample both new and existing products.

This year we had some fantastic feedback on our coffee pods which are compatible with Nespresso machines and also received rave

reviews on our hot chocolate.”

Joanne went on to say: “The show has always been a great help to us with regards market research and new product development. This year we show cased our new pack design on the After Dinner coffee which features Belfast City airport. Since teaming up with the City airport on the initiative we have seen coffee sales increase in Tesco NI.” “We’re really excited to work with George Best City airport on this initiative. 2016 is the Year of Food & Drink in Northern Ireland and having spoken with the airport before we knew they were keen to play a part in the celebrations. We are thrilled to have an iconic site like George Best City Airport feature on our retail coffee and after feedback from the show our customers will be just as excited.

“You can find our Robert Roberts coffee in convenience stores to large supermarkets, cafes, restaurants and hotels throughout Ireland. We roast and grind our fresh coffee and blend our own tea. Our commitment to quality has endured since 1905. We hope that by teaming up with the City Airport in this 2016 Year of Food & Drink we can encourage more people to ‘take off’ with Robert Roberts.”

We will look forward to next year’s event once again where we plan to be bigger and better than ever.

21

EDITORIAL

Best yogurt just got better!

G

lenisk, the award-winning familyowned and operated dairy company has announced a partnership with Ireland Rugby Captain Rory Best, who will appear on special yogurt packs later this month.

A family business, Glenisk works with 50 farms across both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, to source fresh, organic and goat’s milk for their award-winning range of dairy products. Glenisk is already a partner of the IRFU - in a three-year deal announced

22

in October 2015, Glenisk became the Official Yogurt of Irish Rugby. The yogurt maker provides the Ireland team with their proteinrich range of Greek Style yogurts. In addition to the senior men’s team, Glenisk supplies several of the IRFU squads including the women’s team and U20s.

According to Glenisk MD, Vincent Cleary, the partnership with Rory Best was a natural fit. “Rory is a great ambassador for our brand; as Captain of the Ireland team, he’s a role model on and off the field of play. As a professional athlete with a young family and a farming background, there’s no-one better placed to understand nutrition, and why it truly matters where our food comes from.

Rory is well acquainted with the farming community in Northern Ireland, being a farmer himself.”

The fact that Best is an Ulster man is an added bonus as far as Cleary is concerned: “Glenisk is already a household name in the Republic of Ireland and our high protein yogurt was the fastest growing yogurt in the category last year. High protein now accounts for 10% of all yogurt sales and we have more than 50% market share in ROI. Our business has also been growing in Northern Ireland, and accelerated growth in this market is a key priority for Glenisk.”

While partnering with a local hero like

Vincent Cleary, MD, Glenisk and Rory Best

Rory Best is one way in which Glenisk is signalling its commitment to Northern Ireland, the local supply base is another.

Glenisk has been sourcing milk from Northern Irish farms for more than a decade with a specific focus on the organic sector.

“We have an established supply base in Northern Ireland and traditionally sourced more milk here than we have sold yogurt. Our intention is to address that imbalance and increase sales this year. Our plan involves a significant investment in both marketing and consumer-friendly price promotions in-store, across all of our ranges.”

Through a special on-pack promotion, rugby fans in Northern Ireland will have the chance to meet Rory Best at a special breakfast event, as well as winning other rugby-themed prizes. As well as on-pack, the campaign will also focus on PR, advertising, events, in-store and online activations.

Rory Best said: “It’s good to work with Glenisk and help share their message of food first nutrition – as official yogurt of Irish Rugby, Glenisk’s Greek high protein yogurts are a familiar part of the Ireland team’s diet. I’m looking forward to hosting our breakfast event in Belfast next year and getting to meet Northern Ireland’s biggest rugby fans.”

As well as high-protein Greek yogurt, Glenisk produces a range of Organic Big Pots and multi-packs including Bio Live Reduced Sugar Organic Yogurt. One of the most innovative launches of recent years, Glenisk Bio Live has successfully slashed the added sugar while maintaining a great taste and a strict policy of no artificial sweeteners.

Glenisk is also well-known for its organic, lower sugar baby and kids’ ranges which find favour amongst health conscious parents.

Cleary concluded: “The passion inspired by both the players and the supporters, alongside the inherent pursuit of health and excellence, makes rugby a natural fit for Glenisk.

Working shoulder to shoulder with Ireland Captain Rory Best is a natural progression.

We’re looking forward to the exhilarating days, months and years ahead as we support Rory, the teams and the sport – and our Northern Ireland customers and suppliers.”

TESCO TASTE

Grahams roll out new tray bakes range G

rahams family bakers were busy preparing a number of new cakes and bakes to be showcased during Year of Food & Drink Bread & Baking Month last month at the Tesco Taste Festival, including a new range of tray bakes.

This is a return to a baking range that Dennis Graham fondly recalls.

“I remember years previous, when tray bakes were some of our most popular lines, although more recently we have concentrated on cakes and Swiss rolls,” he said.

Launching with Honeycomb Crunch, Rocky Roads, Diane Delights and Malt Crunchies, this range is part of a keen focus on innovation by Grahams, and it truly is a family affair.

Tim Graham, sales and marketing manager, said: “Obviously myself and my sisters are full of ideas and consistently trying new bakes, but mum and dad, both of whom now get free bus travel (if you know what I mean), were daily involved in the tray bake trials and recipe development. I think after 50 years of baking, they feed off our youthful energy and they love seeing updates on classic products, and, of course, the evolution of baking with new ones too.

“Having multiple family generations in the business offers a wonderful melting pot of perspectives and skills; each adding innovation, experience, heritage and skill. We experimented with many different ingredients, settling on using the best Belgian chocolate that we could get our hands on.

“We also trailed a variety of packaging types because we know how the product looks is very important for our retail partners. In the end, this led to us designing our own novel cardboard packaging.”

New Cookstown pies sampled at Tesco Taste Festival C

ookstown, Northern Ireland’s favourite bacon and sausage brand, had another great year at the Tesco Taste Festival at Custom House Square.

Trevor Mounstephen, Tesco Account Manager, said: “We always enjoy participating in the Tesco Taste Festival and thanks to the efforts of Caoimhe and her team, the event has gotten bigger and better each year. The show gives us a great opportunity to speak directly to the public, showcasing what Cookstown has to offer and reinforcing that we are a proud local supplier, employing 880 people and working with over 120 Northern Irish farmers.

“At the Cookstown stand this year, we were sampling and promoting our new Cookstown Chicken & Ham and Mince & Onion Pies. Launching across the market place in the coming weeks. They went down a treat.

“As well as this, we had some great bargains selling our fabulous products at special Tesco Taste discounted prices.”

Hull’s introduces Mini Breakfast Pack L

ocal Ballymena firm Doherty & Gray has introduced a simple, yet innovative new line to complement their existing range, with the launch of a Hull’s of Ballymena Mini Breakfast Pack into the fresh sausage category from September.

This handy pack contains four Hull’s Pork sausages and four Hull’s Veg Roll, offering a quick meal time solution – perfect for breakfast, brunch or in fact any other time of the day, but without the potential wastage from purchasing larger single pack quantities of each product.

Hull’s Veg Roll is the number one branded Veg Roll in the market and remains a firm family favourite amongst Northern Ireland shoppers with strong continued growth, so why not offer the best of both worlds!

Available across all leading retailers, the Hull’s Mini Breakfast Pack delivers both convenience and great value for money, all in a single pack. Ideal for two or four, the choice is yours.

24

love Christmas treats

Stock up now!!! Contact a member of our sales team: Tel +44 (0) 2886 763321 Email info@cookstownbrand.com

TESCO PROFILE Sean Largey, commercial manager of Tesco NI.

Two decades of supporting local food and drink Tesco plans to bring over 200 new local lines to stores in 2017

B

ill Clinton was President and Breakfast at Tiffany’s was topping the UK music charts. The year was 1996 and a retail sea change was about to take place in Northern Ireland, set alongside an already-evolving political landscape.

The first Tesco Metro opened on Royal Avenue on the 29th October 1996 after months of preparation. What followed was an aggressive acquisition drive, culminating in the Tesco purchase of Northern Ireland’s wellknown and loved Stewart’s and Crazy Prices stores in May the following year.

A family favourite across the Province, 26

the original Tesco GB acquisition team had a challenge on their hands – the seamless transition and rebranding of stores beloved by customers – and so colleagues from commercial, marketing, operations and finance set about getting to the very heart of the matter; what Northern Irish shoppers wanted from Tesco.

Through extensive phone research and instore comment cards, it became clear that they wanted lower prices, a retention of the staff they loved and most importantly, local food on the shelves.

Tesco made sure that local brands had

prominence on the shelves with the likes of Dale Farm, White’s Oats and Wilson’s Country being among the first suppliers to come on board – and Tesco is thrilled they among many others are all still on sale in the stores today, and, that the company has grown the value of local products purchased from £50m then to over £580m now.

Since 1996, Tesco shelves have reflected the standard of products from Northern Ireland’s food and drink industry.

At that time, the first Tesco regional buying office was established in Belfast – paving the way for the development and evolution of

TESCO PROFILE Northern Ireland fresh produce suppliers to Tesco back in 1998.

regional food and drink ranges.

And the team in that office – although a few different faces since 1996 – continues to be as passionate and dedicated to not only continuing to work with our existing supply base but to actively seeking out new offers including start-ups and artisans.

Twenty years on, the Tesco NI buying team is still very impressed by the passion suppliers have for their products. Whether it’s in the apple fields of Armagh, up there at Tayto Castle or on Clandeboye Farm – it is clear that it is the suppliers who are the driving force behind such a range of top quality, innovative local products – and Tesco is more committed than ever to bringing these products to the tables of consumers.

That’s why each year Tesco now buys more than £580m worth of product from Northern Ireland suppliers – 10 times the value when Tesco arrived here in 1996. And the company’s commitment doesn’t stop there.

In this, the Northern Ireland Year of Food & Drink, in addition to celebrating the 20th anniversary of the arrival of Tesco on these shores, the company put together a programme of events and activities in partnership with suppliers, valued at half a million pounds.

From celebrating the wealth of fresh produce, craft beers and spirits, quality meat, poultry and dairy through in-store sampling,

to helping tell the story of some of the region’s most iconic brands through engaging, shareable video content, Tesco has continued to support those suppliers whose products are already in our stores as well as constantly

From celebrating the wealth of fresh produce, craft beers and spirits, quality meat, poultry and dairy through in-store sampling, to helping tell the story of some of the region’s most iconic brands through engaging, shareable video content, Tesco has continued to support those suppliers.”

being on the look-out for the latest product innovations, that allow us to keep delighting families across the Province.

So far, in partnership with our local suppliers, shoppers have seen – nine Food NI cookery demos in our stores, 13 in-store sampling fairs, 15 ‘meet the producer’ videos on our local Facebook page, 16 Tesco/local supplier adverts on U105fm and more than 50 artisan ‘pop-up’ shops in our foyers. And we’ve still two months of this year to go.

The Northern Ireland Year of Food & Drink may have ignited a spark this year but it won’t stop there. We are aiming to bring more than 200 new local lines to stores in 2017 and continuing to propel NI food and drink’s reputation here and across the water.

We love local shopping. We did in 1996, we do in 2016 and will continue to do so in the years to come.

27

FOOD & DRINKS NEWS

Dale Farm makes new play for NI yogurt market with Pots of Goodness Northern Ireland dairy company demonstrates its commitment to healthier eating habits with new yogurt range

D

ale Farm, Northern Ireland’s largest dairy company, has launched a new variety of high protein yogurts with zero added sugar. The clean-label Pots of Goodness range was developed as a result of growing consumer demand for food that is naturally low in sugar, with added health benefits in addition to the nutritional value found in dairy.

The new fat-free, Greek-style yogurt, available as Little Pots of Goodness (4 x 120g) and a Big Pot of Goodness (450g), are made with real fruit and enriched with vitamin D. As part of its ‘goodness’ mission, Dale Farm has teamed up with local Northern Ireland food and lifestyle blogger Tiffany Brien to support and promote its healthy eating products. Tiffany will use her blog for recipe creations and offer simple tips on how to boost a balanced diet with exercise.

“At Dale Farm we create great tasting dairy

28

products that are wholesome and nutritious,” said Caroline Martin, head of Marketing at Dale Farm.

“Our new yogurt range is a great way to get your protein fix in just one pot, and further demonstrates Dale Farm’s commitment to expand our lifestyle and nutrition range following the success of Dale Farm Protein Milk last year.

“The yogurt range, available in two sizes, continues to support the company’s objective to grow through product innovation within the Dale Farm brand, with a focus on distinct benefits and natural offerings.”

Dale Farm Pots of Goodness are now available across Northern Ireland. The four flavoured multi-pack yogurts come in Strawberry, Peach & Apricot, Raspberry & Blueberry and Black Cherry. There are three flavours in the large sharing pot including Strawberry, Peach & Apricot and Natural.

FOOD & DRINKS NEWS

Moy Park relaunches breaded range Ireland’s number one poultry brand, Moy Park, has relaunched its branded breaded product range

W

ith the chilled, breaded poultry category in decline*, the new-look Moy Park breaded product range – which includes its signature Chicken Kievs, Goujons and Nuggets – seeks to reinvigorate the category.

“We pride ourselves as being market leaders in innovation and staying ahead of consumer trends,” said Briege Finnegan, Brand Marketing Manager for Moy Park. “Through the relaunch of our breaded range, we want to encourage purchase from existing shoppers, whilst attracting a new generation of consumers.

“Product attributes of convenience and value remain but we’ve developed a new recipe. The range uses 100% breast meat – which means consumers can be assured the products are of the highest quality. The development team has also created a tastier, crunchier crumb – with a new savoury batter, and our packaging has received a ‘make-over’ with new black trays giving the product a high-end feel and finish. The range is ideal for consumers with busy lifestyles looking for a convenient meal-time option – the products are perfect for families and young professionals alike.

“The relaunch will be supported by a fully integrated marketing campaign, including instore POS, retailer activity, outdoor and trade press advertising as well as social media. Consumers will also have the chance to sample the new products themselves at the various trade and consumer shows that we participate in throughout the year. We are delighted to relaunch the range and look forward to the on-going development of the products. We are already considering how we can grow and expand the range through new flavours and textures in 2017.”

For more information on products and distribution, please contact Moy Park on 028 3835 2233. *Source 1: 12 week Kantar Ireland data to 27th March

Moy Park Chicken Kievs Moy Park Chicken Kievs are the perfect, convenient dinner-time option – add a side of chunky wedges, salad or traditional champ for a quick and delicious meal.

Cooking time: 22 minutes from chilled.

Available in: Cheese and Bacon, Garlic and Herb and Creamy Garlic.

Moy Park Breaded Chicken Mini-Fillets Moy Park Breaded Chicken Mini-Fillets are a versatile option for consumers – ideal as a tasty sandwich filler, in a wrap or as part of a main meal.

Cooking time: 17 minutes from chilled.

Available in: Original and Southern Fried.

Moy Park Breaded Chicken Nuggets Moy Park Breaded Chicken Nuggets are ideal for an upcoming party – loved by both big and little kids, try them dipped in tomato or sweet chilli sauce.

Cooking time: 14 minutes from chilled.

3630• Ulster Grocer | JANUARY 2011

Moy Park Breaded Chicken Goujons Moy Park Breaded Chicken Goujons are a family favourite. They can be enjoyed on their own with appetising dips and sauces, or as a tea-time treat served with a side of chips.

Cooking time: 12 minutes from chilled.

Available in: Original and Southern Fried.

Coffee report

Interest in origin grows and pods continue to steal market share from instant coffee Global market intelligence agency Mintel offers its latest insights into the coffee market in its report, Coffee – UK – August 2015.

THE MARKET

Coffee market propped up by growth of pods The UK retail coffee market has been gathering speed in recent years in volume terms. However, this masks a story of two halves. While instant coffee, the dominant segment, continues to struggle, the rapid growth of pods has propped up the market as a whole, partly helped by the higher volume per serving.

Average prices have been pushed down in recent years by the supermarket price wars, slowing inflation and the entry of new operators to the pod market, among other factors. This has led to a more subdued value performance.

These trends are expected to continue going forward, with volume growth of 15% and value growth of 11% predicted for the market over 2010-20.

Instant coffee’s woes continue Instant coffee, which still accounts for almost three quarters of retail value sales of coffee in the UK, has seen a value decline of 3% off the back of a 2.4% decline in volume sales in 2014, with further value decline expected in 2015. The downward volume trend is expected to continue going forward.

The segment continues to lose drinkers, with overall usage of instant coffee down 6 percentage points to 64% in 2015. On top of this, people are drinking instant coffee less frequently, with the proportion of people drinking it more than once a day falling from 27% in 2014 to 21% in 2015.

The pods market continues to go from strength to strength, benefiting from more brands and own-label launching Nespressocompatible pods, undercutting the leading brand’s price. Rising consumer incomes should support the segment going forward.

Ground coffee and coffee bean volume sales have stagnated for a number of years, with values dropping by 1.1% in 2014, impacted by the supermarket price war and falling food and drink inflation.

COMPANIES, BRANDS AND INNOVATION

Nescafé leads in instant coffee Nescafé retains a leading position at the top of the instant coffee market. Its Original and Gold brands account for 35% of total instant coffee sales between them.

32

Nestlé’s dominates the instant coffee segment with a value share of 53%.

The merger of D.E Master Blenders, makers of Douwe Egberts, with the coffee division of Mondelz means the newly formed Jacobs Douwe Egberts (JDE) features two brands in the top five, Douwe Egberts and Kenco Really. Between them, the two operators account for 34% of instant coffee value sales, making for a formidable competitor to Nestlé.

Taylors retains the lead in ground coffee Lavazza is going from strength to strength in ground coffee. Accounting for 17% of the segment in value terms, the brand is however still some way off catching up with Taylors which retained its 25% share in the segment.

Lavazza partnered with Wimbledon for the fifth year running in 2015 and entered the microground instant segment for the first time.

Above-the-line advertising grew by a further 6.4% in 2014 The market has continued to benefit from the marketing clout of some of the biggest brands in global food and drink. It comes as little surprise that Nestlé, which owns a number of the most popular brands in the UK coffee market, is by some distance the biggest spender on advertising. It accounted for 48% of total recoded above-the-line, direct mail and online display advertising spend on coffee in 2014. The launch of Taylors of Harrogate’s first TV advert in May 2014 saw the company record the second highest advertising spend for the year, after Nestlé.

MARKET TRENDS

Next wave of coffee shop-toretail product: cold brew and nitro The launch of Starbucks’ cold brew at the London Coffee Festival in April 2015 has brought the drink to a wider pool of UK consumers, having previously been limited to a handful of artisan coffee shops. While cold brew has already made inroads in the US retail channel, it has yet to feature in the UK. Swiftly following cold brew across the Atlantic is nitro coffee. Produced similarly to cold brew, the liquid is then infused with nitrogen gas creating a creamy and smooth-

textured drink similar in appearance to Guinness. While nitro coffee is in its infancy in the UK, a number of coffee outlets offer it.

A canned product is sold in the US in retail.

Pods continue to gain share of NPD The continued growth of the pod segment is being supported by record levels of NPD. The loss of Nespresso’s patent in October 2013 has opened up opportunities for various operators to enter the lucrative market with compatible pods. A range of Nespresso compatible pods have been introduced over the last few years by CafePod, Jacobs Douwe Egberts and Dualit among others.

Leading instant brands have failed to embrace the craft movement The interest in artisan instant coffee from one in three coffee buyers suggests scope for brands in the struggling segment to slow the decline with craft-style products.

The craft theme has permeated a wide range of food and drink categories in recent years, with brands in beverage categories such as cider and spirits seeking to replicate the success of the craft beer trend.

More than a quarter express an interest in delivery coffee Delivery coffee offers two distinctly different possibilities for development. One in five people are interested in having a readymade coffee (eg Starbucks or Costa) delivered to their home, while 16% are interested in having freshly roasted ground coffee delivered to their home.

Cafetière is the most widely owned coffee system, but many owners don’t use them Cafetière is the most common type of coffee making system, with just over a third of respondents owning one. However, only 62% of those that own one drink ground coffee. Initiatives that encourage consumers to ‘rediscover their cafetière’ could provide a boost to flat volume sales of ground coffee.

COFFEECART-A4_print 28/09/2016 11:29 Page 1

Award Winning Coffee Johnsons Coffee have been roasting in Ireland since 1913, sourcing 100% pure Arabica beans, with total traceability to origin.

All your coffee needs from bean to cup – • Award winning coffee brands, boutique speciality Teas and packaged baked treats.

• “Just-in-time production” ensures freshness.

• Espresso/Tea/Hot Chocolate Machinery. 50-500 cups per day options.

• Purchase & Rental options with high profit on return.

• On-site and workshop maintenance support, refurbishment and spares - mobile communication and on-site video phone support.

• Complete range of ancillary products and consumables.

• Barista training – our accredited trainers offer certified courses at our dedicated training centre – or on your premises!

63% 81%

of consumers prefer an independent coffee brand

of customers visit an outlet for “great coffee”

BIG NIGHT IN

Kerry Foods shakes up frozen with new American meal range Nine meals from new brand The Shack launching exclusively into Iceland nationwide

K

erry Foods is aiming to grow the frozen ready meal (FRM) category by launching a new range of American inspired dishes under The Shack brand.

Exclusive to Iceland, The Shack rolls out nationwide in September across 789 stores. The meals are designed to attract consumers into the FRM aisle by bringing together a variety of delicious American flavours and making popular restaurant food trends more accessible, with some exciting twists and additions.

With nine SKUs, the premium range has been developed as restaurant quality American meals loved by consumers, including build your own fajitas with dips included, and an ultimate burger with pulled BBQ pork & brioche bun.

The new range will consist of five mains and four easy eats, and draws on the on-trend American food movement. The Shack ‘menu’ format is a sociable proposition and with meal weights between 300-550g, the dishes are designed for a single or shared meal occasion.

The launch will be supported by #ShareTheShack, a fully comprehensive sampling roadshow outside Iceland stores and major universities. Consumers will be invited to share photos of ‘great food and good times’ by using #sharetheshack to win a variety of prizes. With additional investment into PR, online and POS activity, Kerry Foods aims to inspire shoppers by offering meals with a new take on popular flavours at an affordable price point.

“In the crowded FRM market, the role of brands is critical to help drive the sector,” said Charlotte Bourne, senior brand manager at Kerry Foods.

“Innovation and premiumisation are key to delivering growth and The Shack delivers on both with its on-trend products, eye-catching packaging, and a market first with dips included in the packs.”

The range was rolled out into 789 Iceland stores nationwide from September.

34

The Ultimate Burger Beef burger with smoky bacon, signature BBQ pulled pork and mature cheddar cheese in a brioche bun.

Chicken & Buffalo Sauce Waffle Breaded chicken breast sat on top of a waffle with a buffalo sauce.

Smoky House Beef Burrito Slow cooked ground beef chilli and long grain rice wrapped in a flour tortilla, topped with our house smoky sauce, with garlic and chive dip and chilli salsa.

Smoky House Pulled Chicken Burrito Pulled spicy chicken chilli and long grain rice wrapped in a flour tortilla and topped with our house smoky sauce, with garlic and chive dip and chilli salsa.

Chicken Fajita & Dips Chunky chicken, spicy and smoky fajita sauce with flour wraps, with garlic & chive dip and tomato and chilli salsa.

Mac & Jack Macaroni and Monterey Jack cheese scattered with crispy onions & jalapeno chillies.

Smokehouse BBQ Pork Wedges Skin on potato wedges topped with pulled pork in a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce.

Chilli Beef Wedges Slow cooked ground beef chilli con carne with skin on potato wedges, topped with mature cheddar and jalapeno rings that sting.

Penne, Pepperoni & Chicken Melt Penne pasta topped with spicy pepperoni and tomato sauce with pulled chicken and cheddar cheese melt top.

BIG NIGHT IN

SPAR launches fruit, nuts and seeds snacking options

I

n a response to the current healthy snacking trends, SPAR has developed a series of healthier snacking options with fruit, nuts and seeds.

The 13 new products are marketed to either eat now, or for sharing and grazing, and are priced at £1 and £2.

The ‘eat now’ line includes a berry mix, Brazil nuts, a chocolate, fruit and nut mix, dried mango, almonds, unsalted cashews, mixed nuts, and a fruit, nut and seed mix. This has been specifically developed for snacking on the go, a healthier alternative to picking up a packet of crisps or sweets.

The ‘sharing and grazing’ varieties come in a re-sealable pack and are also suitable for home baking. Larger 100g, 150g and 155g packs of almonds, dried mango, mixed nuts, unsalted cashews and walnuts are available.

“Snacking doesn’t have to be unhealthy, so we’re delighted that SPAR has developed this new line of healthier products for our retailers to provide as an extra food-on-the-go option,” said Eugene McCabe, trading manager for the category, from Henderson Wholesale.

“The line will not only act as a convenient snack option, but the larger bag options will also be handy for last minute baking and cooking essentials, or something to pass around in the car for a family road trip.

We’re continuing to provide our retailers with healthy, convenient products for their shoppers.”

Sweet selection of Pick & Mix from SPAR

W

ith chocolate being the ultimate treat when it comes to the weekend, SPAR is continuing to develop its chocolate confectionary lines to meet shoppers’ demand for variety.

Launching in October, the new Chocolate Pick & Mix exclusive to SPAR is made up of a mix of milk chocolate covered honeycomb and milk chocolate covered biscuit mixed in with milk and white chocolate ovals.

“Our two best performing lines are chocolate raisins and chocolate peanuts, so it was a natural progression to develop this confectionary line and provide some more variety within our chocolate confectionary options,” said Eugene McCabe, trading manager for the category from Henderson Wholesale.

“We think the Chocolate Pick & Mix bag will be a popular option; at only £1 with a variety of flavours in one pack, it will be perfect for shoppers picking up their snacks for a night in.”

Other products within the SPAR £1 sharing confectionary range include Midget Gems, Chocolate Eclairs, Fruit Jellies and Fruity Chews. The brand also offers a 3 for £1 option of retro sweets including Rainbow Belts, Strawberry Pencils, Fizzy Cola Bottles and Flying Saucers.

35

BIG NIGHT IN

Tayto ‘pops’ up with a new product offering N

orthern Ireland’s number one crisp and snack brand, Tayto, has popped into a new market with the creation of Tayto Popcorn, which sees the company take its first bite of the local £3m popcorn sector.

With a core range including three traditional varieties – Cinema Sweet, Salted and a Sweet & Salted combination, Tayto has also created an innovative fourth version using its unique Cheese & Onion flavouring blend.

“By diversifying into the popcorn market, we are offering our consumers a new take on what they know and love,” said Elly Hunter, marketing director of Tayto. “We just had to make a Tayto Cheese & Onion popcorn flavour, which has all the taste that our customers expect, mixed with a new type of crunch. The range is great to enjoy with friends, family and a good movie.”

Each pack contains fewer than 100 calories per serving, is wholegrain, suitable for vegetarians and is gluten free so, as well as lifestyle consumers, traction is expected in the health food sector.

Tayto Popcorn sharing bags have an RRP of £1.39, and are available in supermarkets and convenience stores across Northern Ireland.

New flavour for Tayto’s popular Handcooked range T

ayto has also just launched a new flavour to accompany its core Handcooked sharing range.

Causeway Sea Salt & Malt Vinegar joins Irish Roast Beef & Peppercorn, Mature Irish Cheddar & Sweet Onion and Sweet Chilli & Red Pepper.

The Handcooked range is a premium sharing offering from the Co Armagh brand.

“This range is very popular with families who want to share their crisp experience at home, with friends, as a snack or as part of a cosy evening in front of the TV,” said Hunter. “These crisps are handcooked for longer than traditional crisps and dusted with the punchy flavourings Tayto customers seek. The new Causeway Sea Salt & Malt Vinegar flavour is a ‘grown up’ alternative to the standard Tayto Salt & Vinegar variety, with specially sourced and blended ingredients.”

With a 90g convenience bag with a price point of £1 and a 150g option available in supermarkets for an RRP of £1.99, the new flavour is distinguishable by its striking dark blue and pink packaging.

The launches of the Tayto Popcorn range and the new Causeway Sea Salt & Malt Vinegar Handcooked variety are being supported by heavyweight marketing campaigns to include extensive product sampling, in-store point of sale, advertising and social media engagement.

36

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS

Ardboe Coldstore: Logistical solutions for the food sector E

stablished in 2004, Ardboe Coldstore Ltd provides temperature controlled warehousing, distribution and added value services to the food sector in Northern Ireland and further afield.

Operating from a six million cubic ft. facility in the Co Tyrone village of Ardboe at the very heart of Mid Ulster, Ardboe Coldstore has the benefit of a unique location within easy reach of all the main food manufacturers in Northern Ireland and the major ports.

The business manages in excess of 20,000 pallets of ambient, chilled and frozen food products and complies with the strict and stringent parameters of the food sector in terms of hygiene, traceability, temperature control, legislation and policy requirements. It is one of the top food preservation, warehousing and distribution systems in Ireland, the UK and Europe and holds BRC accreditation for all business activities.

The company boasts approval from the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture), HMRC bonded warehousing and RPA (Rural Payment Agency) among others and is a member of the FSDF (Food Storage and Distribution Federation).

It is a licensed packer and re-wrapping facilitator and additional customer services include product maturation, blast freezing, up tempering & value added processing. The company has expanded rapidly since its inception, now with 60 employees and a number of blue chip national and international customers that include Dale Farm, Karro Foods and Lacpatrick Dairies.

Customers benefit from the provision of 24/7, 365 day a year access to their products, a modern mobile racking system affording instant pallet selection, exemplary customer service from dedicated Account Managers and a state-of-the-art Warehouse Management stock control system which enables total visibility and traceability for clients.

Complementing the warehouse facilities the business operates a

From blast freezing and tempering facilities, to warehousing and distribution services, Ardboe Coldstore provides food sector clients of all sizes with a full range of logistical solutions.

modern fleet of temperature controlled trailers, which are tracked and monitored remotely to provide customers with transport solutions within NI, ROI and GB. The business has recently set up a satellite site in the North West of the Province for ambient storage and has expanded into several new markets such as the Netherlands and France, while strengthening their existing foothold in the Irish and UK markets.

Looking to the future, the company Director, Eugene Carson commented: “Over the next 12 months we wish to develop our medium to long term strategy, increase our market presence and facilitate exports to developing markets such as China and the USA. Recently we have acquired a 25-acre parcel of land adjacent to our existing facility, which enjoys full uninhibited planning approval for commercial development. It is our intention to develop a food/industrial park here, complementing our existing business and creating multiple job opportunities for the local area in the medium to long term.�

37

Tel: 028 9083 2232 www.star-rentals.com TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS

Sean Clarke, sales director, Star Rentals

Star Rentals – a fresh choice T

he demand for fresh food is ever increasing. Whether you are a small business delivering sandwiches, a catering company delivering freshly prepared food or a home delivery service transferring chilled food, Star Rentals can help to make sure you have the right refrigerated van to suit your business.

Star Rentals fleet of chilled vehicles range from small car derived vans to larger 3.5t vans and use a variety of reputable refrigerated units. All are suitable for chilled and some for deep frozen use with temperatures ranging from -10°c to +5°c. Dual compartments and electric standby are available.

Sean Clarke, sales director, comments: “Whether you require a vehicle for as little as a single day or long-term contract hire, we can provide flexible, competitively priced, tailor made packages to suit your company’s specific requirements. We also cater for customers who need a refrigerated vehicle at short notice to keep your business on the road when unexpected breakdowns happen or during busy periods when extra capacity is required.

“New and used vehicle sales are also an option for those who wish to purchase. All of our vehicles have undergone full inspections to ensure they are fit for your purpose.”

Star Rentals shares a site with sister company NI Trucks. With its state-of-theart workshops and fully trained vehicle technicians, our customers can be assured that the Star Rentals fleet is maintained to the highest possible standards.

In the event of the unexpected, Star Rentals provides full 24/7 breakdown support and if any defect is not repairable at the roadside, a replacement vehicle of similar specification will be provided to reduce any unnecessary down time.

For more information or a quotation, contact Sean Clarke at Star Rentals – tel: 028 9083 2232, email: enquiries@star-rentals.com.

Tel: 028 9083 3040 www.ni-trucks.co.uk 38

Star Rentals 'Refrigerated Vans' Ulster Grocer Full Page Ad 29/09/2016 16:53 Page 1

Do you operate a chilled food delivery service?

Keep food fresh with Star Rentals refrigerated vans • Small, medium and large refrigerated vans to cater for every need and application • Short and long term contract hire available • Last minute coverage for broken down vehicles or extra loads • New and Used truck and van sales

For our wide choice of available refrigerated vans, contact us now.

Tel: 028 9083 2232 Email: enquiries@star‐rentals.com www.star‐rentals.com

AGRI-FOOD NEWS

UFU welcomes winter milk bonus

U

lster Farmers’ Union has welcomed a commitment from United Dairy Farmers to pay suppliers a significant winter milk production bonus.

Dale Farm’s Board has also decided to introduce a Production Incentive Scheme to members over the same period, paying +4.00ppl on all additional litres each member produces above their base volume.

Pearson-NI develops bovine mastitis solution

M

id Ulster-based family business Pearson-NI (Pearson) has developed a new automated system to help prevent bovine mastitis, with R&D support from Invest Northern Ireland.

The innovative approach has opened up a whole new market for the business which has recently sold the new product to two new customers in the Republic of Ireland worth nearly E300,000.

Comber Farmers’ Market celebrates Harvest Month

C

omber Farmers’ Market celebrated Year of Food & Drink’s October Harvest theme with a showcase of local producers at its monthly event on October 6.

Featured suppliers included Forthill Farm, Kennedy Bacon and Broughgammon Farm, the Krazi Baker, Farm House Treats, Mange Tout Deli and Go Yeast, Horner’s Farm Shop and Helen’s Bay Walled Garden.

8 • •Ulster 3640 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

Pictured at the Flavour of the North judging day in Loughrey College Cookstown are Damien Barrett, managing director of Henderson Foodservice, finalist Cathy Chauhan of Lough Neagh Eels and fellow judge Howard Hastings OBE and official ambassador for the Northern Ireland Year of Food & Drink.

Local food companies set to compete in Flavour of the North final

F

ive food companies are set to compete in the Henderson Foodservice Flavour of the North final in Belfast on October 11.

Each of the companies was selected by a highly respectable team of judges following a deliberation day held at Loughry College, Cookstown where 12 companies exhibited their wares, eager to impress the panel and win a place in the grand final.

Judging the competition were some of the most respected names in Northern Ireland’s food and drink industry including chef Danny Millar, hotelier Howard Hastings, retailer Gail Boyd, restaurateur and chef Tony Neill, chairman of the Mount Charles Group Trevor Annon and Damien Barrett, managing director of Henderson Foodservice. Taking advantage of the judges’ experience, competitors were given first-hand advice and guidance from the panel’s wealth of knowledge of the food and drink industry.

While taste was of paramount importance, judges were also looking for excellence in innovation, examining growth potential and critiquing the uniqueness of the product.

The five shortlisted companies are: • Corndale Farm – Limavady Chorizo • Lough Neagh Eels • Pop Notch Popcorn

• Donnybrewer Butter • Cavanagh Eggs “Each of these five products captured the attention of our judges who were blown away by the incredible taste and standards of all the entries to the Flavour of the North competition,” said Barrett. “To pick just five to go forward to the final was an enormously difficult task and each of those shortlisted should feel incredibly proud of their success.”

“We launched the Flavour of the North Competition to help us communicate our support for local produce. We believe strongly that Northern Ireland food and drink is among the best in the world and it deserves to be championed in restaurants, hotels and stores throughout the country.”

On top of being awarded the ‘Flavour of the North’ title, the overall winner will walk away with a comprehensive prize package comprising significant media exposure, a product listing with Henderson Foodservice, giving them direct access to 4,500 customers across Ireland, features in monthly promotional brochures, marketing and commercial support plus the opportunity to have the product featured on the menus of members of the judging panel where appropriate.

AGRI-FOOD NEWS

NI poultry producer picks up M&S Champion of Champions award

C

o Antrim-based farmer Tom Forgrave has been recognised by M&S for his innovative and sustainable work, which has led to his business being what he believes is the first carbon negative poultry farm in Northern Ireland.

After initially winning his regional category, Forgrave was crowned the overall winner out of 10 regional and overseas finalists in the annual M&S Farming for the Future awards.

Established eight years ago, the awards celebrate producers in the M&S supply chain which stand out and make a difference to their industry.

Forgrave is responsible for all business and financial decisions for his family’s high welfare broiler chicken farm in Ballymoney, which supplies chicken to M&S through Moy Park.

The family has expanded the business in recent years and also grows cereal crops and Christmas trees.

Judges were impressed by his methodical approach which has enabled the business to grow in a sustainable manner, placing it in the top 15% of poultry producers in Northern Ireland in terms of profitability.

Forgrave was one of the first producers in Northern Ireland to adopt biomass heating across the farm to heat the chicken houses, and has also invested in a wind turbine to fulfil the farm’s electricity requirements. All chicken litter is used by an anaerobic digester nearby, to produce even more green energy, ensuring that the farm is as environmentally friendly as possible.

“Not only is Tom committed to doing the right thing on his own farm, he makes time to engage with other farmers and is currently the chair of the UFU’s Northern Ireland Poultry Committee,” said Steve McLean, head of Agriculture and Fisheries at M&S.

Tom Forgrave

Other local finalists in the M&S Farming for the Future awards included beef farmer Larry Nugent in the Outstanding Category and vegetable grower William Gilpin in the Young Producer Category.

UFU calls for protection of cross border trade

Belfast shoppers back local lamb

Pictured are, from left, UFU Deputy President, Victor Chestnutt; UFU Beef and Lamb Vice Chairman, Sam Chesney; IFA President, Joe Healy; and UFU Beef and Lamb Chairman Crosby Cleland at the Irish National Ploughing Championships.

Pictured at Belfast City Hall promoting locally-produced lamb are, from left, Ian Buchanan, UFU hill farming chairman, Elliot Bell, UFU beef and lamb policy officer and Crosby Cleland, UFU beef and lamb chairman.

U

lster Farmers’ Union Deputy President Victor Chestnutt, has stressed the importance of cross border trade for cattle and sheep.

Speaking during a visit to the Irish National Ploughing Championships, he said this trade must be protected in the Brexit negotiations, warning that without protection for trade, Brexit would have a negative impact on livestock farms.

“There are many established links between the livestock sector in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland for both breeding and finished stock,” he said. “This historic trade, in place for generations, is crucial if we are to sustain a vibrant and economically viable livestock sector north and south of the border.”

Chestnutt, along with Crosby Cleland and Sam Chesney of the UFU’s beef and lamb committee, have been speaking to farmers and livestock marts on both sides of the border. They say it was clear from these discussions that there is genuine concern Brexit could disrupt trade and competition for livestock.

T

he Ulster Farmers’ Union brought lamb to the centre of Belfast last month to persuade consumers that many of the misconceptions they may have about the product being fatty or difficult to cook were wrong.

The venue for the promotion of local lamb was the City Hall, with chef Paula McIntyre and LMC demonstrator Helen Bell both proving what a versatile product local lamb is. The promotion was timed for the month when local supplies are at their peak, after grazing summer grass to produce a top quality product.

“Lamb can be a bit of a Cinderella enterprise, with outcomes for farmers driven by the weather and often volatile prices,” said Barclay Bell, president of UFU. “However, it is a key enterprise on our farms. Sheep production is central to managing the environment in the hills and uplands – and making a success of that ultimately depends on people being enthusiastic about eating the final product.”

41

EXPORT NEWS

White’s secures new contract with Tesco Scotland

Stuart Best, White’s business development manager, is pictured with Sean Largey, Tesco Northern Ireland commercial manager.

A

s a result of continued success in Northern Ireland, White’s Oats has been awarded a new contract to supply Tesco’s Scottish stores with its awardwinning cereal products.

Based in Tandragee, White’s has enjoyed significant sales growth following major investment in NPD and a packaging re-design of its range of oat-based cereals, reinforcing its market-leading position in Northern Ireland. The company was awarded the Chartered Institute of Marketing (Ireland) Food & Drink Award 2015 for its marketing campaign in 2015.

“The White’s Oats brand is testament to the strength of the Northern Irish food sector and a great example of a local company that Tesco is honoured to support,” said Sean Largey, Tesco Northern Ireland commercial manager.

“White’s has been part of the Tesco Northern Ireland success story since we first opened our doors in Belfast in 1996 and it is really rewarding to see them develop their business with this contract to supply our stores in Scotland.”

Stuart Best, White’s business development manager, said: “At White’s, we are really delighted to have been given the opportunity to develop our business with Tesco in both Ireland and Scotland. With increased availability in Scotland, we look forward to growing our business by meeting the needs of Tesco shoppers.

“We are focused on developing and bringing to market nutritionally balanced oat cereals which taste good and allow consumers to pursue healthy active lifestyles whatever their needsit’s a sector that we are committed to championing.”

42

New listings in Britain for Moy Park roastin-the-bag range P

oultry processor Moy Park has secured new listings for its roastin-the-bag range with Costco and McColl’s convenience stores throughout Britain.

The Extra Tasty variant of the product will be stocked in 1,350 McColl’s convenience stores and 29 Costco warehouses nationally.

“The new listings will ensure we continue to further expand our reach and presence in the GB market,” said Grant Ferrier, director of sales for Moy Park. “The range has gone from strength to strength since its launch, and the new listings build on our existing success to date for the products, including the launch of a third variety earlier this year.

“We look forward to the continued development of the product, and hope to secure further listings and expand the range throughout 2016.”

The company, part of Brazil’s JBS and headquartered at Craigavon in Co Armagh, hopes the new contracts will build on the existing success of the three-strong Moy Park Good Kitchen roast-in-the-bag range and the launch of the latest variant – Pork, Sage and Onion-Stuffed whole chicken – which has listings across major retailers.

Burren Balsamics doubles vinegar sales

B

urren Balsamics, a local business producing a unique range of natural fruit-infused vinegars, has doubled sales over the past year.

The business, based at Richill in Co Armagh, announced the rise in sales in target markets such as Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland, as it launched a new Chilli and Honey addition to its existing seven-strong range.

Abernethy Butter secures Harrods deal

A

bernethy Butter has won business with Harrods, with the prestigious store in Knightsbridge now selling two of Abernethy’s successful range of butters – regular and smoked. The small company’s smoked butter was recently named in the Top 50 Foods of Great Taste 2016 by the UK Guild of Fine Food, having gained the ultimate three gold star accolade.

Northern Irish meat business rebrands to grow exports

N

orthern Irish gluten-free meat specialist Doherty’s has refreshed its brand as part of a marketing drive to expand business in Britain and the Republic of Ireland.

The company, based in Londonderry, has invested in a new corporate identity and packaging along with a revamped website for its extensive range of gluten-free burgers, traditional Irish pork sausages, special mince and other meat products.

Doherty’s has developed business in Britain with multiple retailers and is keen to increase sales by sharpening its presence in the chillers.

A family-owned and managed business, Doherty’s was established in 1830 and currently employs 40 people at its production unit in Derry. It won gold and silver for its gluten-free burgers and sausages in this year’s inaugural Free From Food Awards held in Dublin.

“The single biggest challenge for our business has been the changing pattern in retailing with the rise of the multiples and discounters,” said Seamus Doherty, managing director, who oversees the business with his brother Ian. “We like to think we have a good, broad customer base that covers both the independent grocery sector and the multiples.”

MARKETING NEWS

White’s Oats and Ulster Rugby join forces for another year

W

hite’s Oats has signed up as the official breakfast and porridge supplier of the Ulster Rugby team for a third year, ensuring each player is getting the correct amount of complex slow release carbohydrates, protein, fibre, b vitamins and minerals to complement and enhance their performance both on and off pitch.

Key in any sport or physical activity is starting the day right, and variety can ensure access to a wide range of nutrients on a daily basis to improve the nutritional value of meals and snacks.

Oats are incredibly versatile and White’s range of porridge oats from quick cooking Speedicook oats to the larger coarser Jumbo Oats and the very finely milled Oat Bran provide a perfect base to not only enjoy and consume oats in lots of different and exciting ways but also deliver a much need nutritional boost throughout the day.

Danielle McBride, brand manager at White’s Oats, is pictured with Ulster Rugby players.

Meeting nutritional goals can be difficult with demanding work and sport schedules.

Partnering with nutritionist Jane McClenaghan, Vital Nutrition and Ulster Rugby’s Head of Strength & Conditioning Coach Jonny Davis, White’s new peanut and oat bars are a quick and convenient energy snack which can be eaten before or during training for a healthy boost. ‘’We understand the importance that a well-balanced and varied diet can have on a body’s performance,” said Danielle McBride, brand manager at White’s Oats. “The link between good simple nutrition and what it can deliver in terms of health and wellness, sustaining energy levels and supporting a strong body is becoming more readily understood.”

Boost launches its biggest consumer campaign T

his autumn, Boost is launching its biggest ever consumer campaign across the UK, designed to take the number two (IRI 17th July 2016) energy drinks brand to millions of new consumers.

The Release the Boost initiative will communicate how Boost provides incredible energy, sensational taste and is a fraction

of the price of its competitors. Whether it’s staying awake for night workers, keeping workmen on the front foot, letting students make the most of the midnight hours, heading off the afternoon slump for office workers or making the mornings easier for mums, Boost is the perfect combination of taste, energy and price.

To spread the word, quirky radio advertising that takes the listener through the roller coaster ride of energy experienced when opening a can of Boost, will aim to reach millions of new consumers, supported by digital banners placed across sites such as Spotify and the Daily Mail. Online activity will include prize offers.

Pictured are Stefan Szymura, account manager, Irwin’s Bakery and Sandra Weir, regional buying manager, Tesco NI at Tesco Newtownabbey.

Irwin’s treats 40 Tesco shoppers to ‘Bread and Breakfast’

T

o celebrate 2016 Northern Ireland Year of Food & Drink, Irwin’s Bakery has partnered with Tesco and Tourism NI to offer 40 ‘Bread & Breakfast’ breaks to shoppers across Northern Ireland.

“As a key player in Northern Ireland’s agri-food industry and supporter of the Northern Ireland Year of Food & Drink, we thought Bread & Baking month would be the perfect time to capitalise on our strong working relationship with Tesco and offer shoppers the chance to explore NI through this competition,” said Stefan Szymura, account manager, Irwin’s Bakery. “Our ‘Bread and Breakfast’ giveaway is supported through point of sale across 36 Tesco stores in NI, targeted PR and digital media.”

Shoppers can enter Irwin’s ‘Bread and Breakfast’ competition online at www.irwinsbakery.com/tesco.

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

43

ENE Volumetric Depositor Pocket Filler Filler ideal for rice, pasta, noodles, vegetables and fruit products can dispense wet and dry products supplied with conveyor for trays or pots can produce up to 65 fills per mins semi automatic.

ENE volumetric pocket fillers dispense products by volume instead of by weight or by count.

The compact design of the ENE machine with built in conveyor is your ideal way to dispense a wide range of products.The ENE pocket filler can produce a wide range of filling volumes and weights, depending on product.

ENE Volumetric Pocket Fillers are suitable to use with a wide variety of containers: trays, plates, cartons, cups, pouches, cans, jars, boxes, and many more packaging concepts.

Technobox Tray Erecting Machinery Tecnobox tray erecting machines: •

Tecnobox tray erecting machines are designed to automatically erect corrugated cardboard (and solid board) trays using hotmelt glue.

•

They are mechanical, pneumatic and electric in operation and on average produce between 1500 and 2000 trays/hour (depending on tray type and size).

•

Mostly the machines are sold with tray stackers which accumulate and stack the formed trays before they are collected, either manually or as automatically as part of an integrated packing line.

Jeros Tray Washing Equipment JEROS A/S - An international company with more than 50 years’ experience in the development, production and sales of tray cleaners, utensil washers, and crate washers for retail and the food industry.

The Jeros range of equipment is suitable within many industries, meat, fish, poultry, bakery, ready meals and many more.

Bakery Tray Cleaners The driving rollers are precisely adjusted for a certain tray thickness to ensure a smooth flow of the trays through the machine. The rollers are of the largest possible diameter to avoid deforming the trays. The pre scraper loosens heavily burnt deposits on the trays helping to prolong the life of the brushes and reduces the need for cleaning the machine.

Utensil Washers The 9100 Series comprises a total of five new models: 9110 / 9115 with rotating wash systems and 9117 / 9120 / 9130 with wash frame system.

Inside, the machines have been thoroughly redesigned, focusing on hygiene and easy cleaning.

The inside surfaces and rounded to ensure quick and automatic flow of water back to the filter and pumps. Filters, wash arms and wash frames come in

electropolished surface finishes leaving the stainless surface completely smooth to prevent dirt from sticking to surfaces of the machine. This makes it easier to clean and maintain the machine.

Crate Washers This compact JEROS Crate Washer Model 200 was specially developed and designed for small and medium sized companies and is specifically suitable for all Euro crates and comparable products. It is manufactured throughout in stainless steel. The pump and heating elements are protected against drying out by means of a low water level security system. The machine comprises of a Main wash section and a separate Rinse section. In the main wash section: Crates are washed with recycled water Recycled water is filtered by an easily removable filter system. Wash water is electrically heated and pumped by a stainless steel circulation pump to the jet spray nozzles. In the rinse section: Crates are rinsed with fresh water. Rinse water replaces water in main wash tank. Surplus water and surface pollution are drained by an overflow.

HFM Handling and Cleaning Equipment Tote Bins, Scales, Cleaning Equipment, Tote Bin and Dolav Lifters.

Henderson Food Machinery can offer a wide range of Handling and Washing Equipment. Ancillary equipment can be used for the movement, storage, control and protection of materials, goods and products throughout the process of manufacturing, distribution, consumption and disposal within many applications

Bakery Equipment at Henderson Food Machinery We can supply a wide range of bakery equipment from pie making lines, spiral mixers, bakery ovens, pizza ovens, and a large range of other bakery equipment for further information give us a call.

www.hendersonfoodmachinery.com

105971 Henderson Food - Machinery.indd 2

06/09/2016 16:15

Line Equipment Multihead Weighers and Bagging Machinery Quality Multihead Weighers and Vertical Form Fill Seal Machinery • •

•

•

•

Various Sizes and Configurations Suitable for a variety of applications within meat, fish, poultry, vegetables, bakery, confectionary, contract packaging and many more industries A VFFS machine is also known as a Vertical Form Fill Sealing Machine. This is a kind of automated assembly line pouch filling equipment system that is commonly used by companies that are in the industry for packaging food. If you require a VFFS bagger you have certainly come to the right place as we have plenty of different options for you to choose from. We are frequently updating our equipment range as well.

Vertical Form Fill Seal Machines form the packaging for product to be filled into the packaging, machines come with or without gas, various sizes of bags can be produced due to sealing bars and forming tubes A Multihead Weigher is the fast accurate and reliable way of packing both food and nonfood products.

•

•

•

A ‘typical target’ weight per pack can be set by computer. The product is fedto the top of the multihead weigher where it is dispersed to the buckets. Each bucket drops the product into a weigh bucket beneath it as soon as the weigh bucket becomes empty.

The weigher’s computer determines the weight of product in each individual weigh hopper and identifies which combination contains the weight closest to the target weight set.. The multihead weigher opens all the buckets of this combination and the product falls via a discharge chute into a VFFS machine or alternatively into a distribution system which places the product for example into trays.

Dispersion is normally by gravity,vibration or centrifugal force while feeding can be driven by vibration, gravity, belts, or screw systems.

Norpak Labelling Systems Servo Labellers, Print and Apply, Barcode Printers, Wraparound Labellers Many of our products are perfectly suited to a whole range of applications, and we’ve learnt through experience how to best meet our customers’ differing requirements. Whatever your product, size, reach or budget, our expert team can advise you on the best labelling and packaging solutions for your business. The food manufacturing industry makes up the largest section of Norpak’s customer base. We provide a wide spectrum of

products to food-based businesses worldwide, including many packaging and labelling products specifically designed for use in the sector. We supply to a varied range of food businesses, providing everything from accurate labelling solutions for delicate perishables such as fruit and vegetables, to versatile systems for labelling unusually shaped containers, to robust and reliable packaging for many food products.

T Freemantle Cartoners and Sleeving Machinery Two Flap Sealer The operator manually loads the product into the cartons and places the cartons into the machine infeed rails. The operator then pushes the cartons forward into the machine.The cartons are detected and applied with hot melt glue and automatically folded and sealed.

Continuous Two Flap Sealer. The operator manually loads the product into the cartons and places the cartons into the machine infeed conveyor. The machine then applies hot melt glue and automatically folds and seals the carton. The cartons are then ejected from the machine by the driven discharge outfeed belts.

Semi Automatic End Load Cartoner. The machine carton magazine is loaded with flat blanks. The machines rotary erector selects a blank on demand and erects it into the moving flight chains. The carton flaps are spread and passed by the product load area ready for the carton to be filled manually.

The carton is then automatically folded sealed and ejected through driven outfeed belts..

Fully Automatic End Load Cartoner. The machine carton magazine is loaded with flat blanks. The machine’s rotary erector selects a blank on demand and erects it into the moving flight chains.

Semi Automatic Preglued Sleever. The machine’s sleeve magazine is loaded with standard pre glued

five crease sleeves. The machine selects a sleeve on demand and opens it into a forming tool.

The machine then passes the opened sleeve by a product load area ready for filling manually or automatically. The sleeved product is then ejected in line through discharge belts.

Fully Automatic Preglued Sleever. The machine’s sleeve magazine is loaded with standard pre glued five crease sleeves. The machine selects a sleeve on demand and opens it into a forming tool.

The machine then passes the opened sleeve by a product load area ready for filling manually or automatically. The sleeved product is then ejected in line through discharge belts.

Wrap Around Sleever. The machine accepts random supply of products from the line, automatically selects, and loads the required number into the machine. A sleeve is selected from the sleeve magazine and placed directly on the products. The sleeve is then automatically folded and glued. The sealed sleeve is then ejected through driven discharge belts.

sales@hendersonfoodmachinery.com

105971 Henderson Food - Machinery.indd 3

06/09/2016 16:15

BUSINESS NEWS

Economy Minister launches Trade Accelerator Plan

Irwin’s Bakery implements ‘dynamic’ IT with Sysco

Pictured at Irwin’s Bakery in Portadown are Michael Murphy, CEO, Irwin’s Bakery and Tony Brown, Dynamics commercial lead, Sysco Software.

Pictured are Aoife Clarke, Zenith Hygiene Systems, Economy Minister Simon Hamilton, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP and Peter Gormley, Sperrin Metal Products.

E

conomy Minister Simon Hamilton MLA has launched a Trade Accelerator Plan, aimed at further boosting exports by locally-based businesses and expanding the number of companies trading outside of Northern Ireland.

Among sectors to be targeted through the plan are Great Britain-based buying groups including agri-foods and the hospitality sector.

Launching the Trade Accelerator Plan at an Opportunity Egypt event hosted by Invest Northern Ireland and chaired by Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, MP, at Stormont, Hamilton said: “Northern Ireland is fortunate to have some fantastic companies across all sectors producing goods and services that can compete with businesses anywhere in the world.

“Figures released this week show that over the last 12 months, Northern Ireland was the only part of the United Kingdom to see an increase in exports. I want us to build on the success of this latest 9.5% rise in exports and help Northern Ireland to become an increasingly outward looking, trading region.”

“Growing our exports is critical to growing local business and transforming Northern Ireland into a globally competitive economy.”

More information on the accelerator plan is available at www.investni.com/TradeAcceleratorPlan.

N

orthern Ireland’s leading bakery Irwin’s has appointed Sysco Software to implement Microsoft Dynamics NAV solution to support its goals in growth, efficiency and best practices.

Microsoft Dynamics NAV allows organisations to streamline both internal and external business processes from supply chain management and production schedules to meeting industry compliance.

“With offices in both Belfast and Dublin, the partnership was a natural fit for the bakery,” said Michael Murphy, chief executive, Irwin’s Bakery.

“For any company in today’s digital age, having an efficient and innovative business process strategy is crucial. We chose to work with Sysco Software given the company’s attention to detail and expertise in maximising the effectiveness of business procedures.

“As a local business that has been baking bread in Northern Ireland for more than 100 years, we also felt it was important to work with a local company. Sysco has a strong reputation within other Northern Ireland food companies such as Dale Farm. The team at Sysco therefore understands the importance of industry knowledge and implementing best practice processes, which complement our strategic focus on growing sales and developing innovative new products.”

TOBACCO NEWS

JTI’s ‘outside the box’ thinking creates new gantry solution for e cigarettes

J

TI, the UK’s No.1 tobacco company, is unveiling a new solution for existing gantry units to support the fast-growing e-cigarette category. The first of its kind, Retailer Arjan Mehr tries out the new gantry the modification includes dedicated space for e-cigarettes built into the tobacco gantry.

The new-look gantries – with space available to stock JTI’s Logic e-cigarette brand and competitor products – have been trialed by retailers Arjan Mehr, Dee Sedani and Jet Sunner. The new display area for e cigarettes will help to arrange the category in an organised display and greatly assist with ranging and availability.

46

New ‘American Spirit’ packs hit shelves

F

rom October, Natural American Spirit will become ‘American Spirit’, as JTI launches its TPD2 compliant packs for the brand nationwide.

American Spirit RYO pouches will roll out first with the RMC SKUs set to follow.

Offering the same taste and quality, the product remains unchanged and continues to provide a significant profit opportunity for retailers as the top additive free tobacco brand. With a combined share of over 72.8% of the sector, the pioneering brand remains particularly popular in London. For more information on the new American Spirit packs or TPD2, retailers should speak to their local JTI representative or call the JTI Customer Careline on 0800 163 503 to arrange a visit.

APPOINTMENTS

People on the move...

in association with

Chief financial officer appointed at Moy Park M

Sian Land

oy Park, has announced the appointment of Sian Land to the role of chief financial officer.

As CFO and a member of Moy Park’s executive team, Land will be responsible for leading the company’s finance, legal and IT teams and providing strategic direction and advice to support the continued growth of the business.

With a proven track record in corporate leadership, Land joins Moy Park from International Procurement and Logistics (IPL Ltd), where she held the role of group finance director, responsible for operational and commercial financial management and IT operations. Land has over 20 years’ experience in the food industry having also held senior positions at Campbell’s Frozen Foods, Müller Dairy and Premier Foods.

“I am delighted to welcome Sian to Moy Park and to the wider JBS team,” said Janet McCollum, chief executive of Moy Park. “As a member of the executive leadership team, Sian will play a pivotal role in Moy Park’s continued growth and development by adding strategic value to our business. A talented CFO, Sian has an exceptional leadership record across the food sector and we are delighted she is joining Moy Park in this executive role.”

Niclas Mårtensson assumes position of CEO at Stena Line F

ormer Deputy CEO Niclas Mårtensson was appointed CEO last month by Stena Line, which operates key in and out-bound grocery transit routes to GB from Belfast.

Outgoing CEO Carl-Johan Hagman will resume his position as chairman of the Stena Line Board, and will also remain in the role as head of Shipping at Stena AB. Niclas Mårtensson has more than 10 years’ experience of working in different senior positions within Stena Line including route manager in Germany and Poland, COO and most recently as Deputy CEO. “This appointment is a natural step in our development process. We are pleased that we have recruited a CEO internally who will be able to fully focus on realising the strategy,” said Carl-Johan Hagman.

Niclas Mårtensson said: “I’m really looking forward to the exciting challenge of, with our customers in mind, realising our journey towards a sustainable and digital company.

The transportation needs of our freight and travel customers continue to increase and evolve and Stena Line, with its comprehensive European network, is well positioned to meet that demand in a sustainable way.”

Niclas Mårtensson

Unit 2, 1 Edgewater Road, Belfast Harbour, Belfast BT3 9JQ Tel: +44 28 9077 0999 Fax: +44 28 9078 1172 www.contractpeople.com infoni@contractpeople.com

www.salesplacement.com infoni@salesplacement.com

47

SHELFLIFE

To see your product featured in Shelf Life, contact Mark at markbeckett@greerpublications.com or Tel: 028 9078 3235

O’Donnells crisps launches new multipacks O

’Donnells gluten-free crisps are consistently Ireland’s number one hand-cooked crisp in the market, and continue to show double digit growth year on year*. The O’Donnells brand was launched in 2010 by Ed O’Donnell who is a seventh generation farmer from Tipperary and, since launch, the brand has performed above all expectations.

O’Donnells has five varieties in its range: Mature Irish Cheddar and Red Onion, Irish Cider Vinegar and Sea Salt, Sweet Chilli, Hickory BBQ and Irish Sea Salt.

What sets O’Donnells crisps apart from their competitors is their taste, and they have won many awards; most recently Great Taste awards for Mature Irish Cheddar and Red Onion, and Irish Sea Salt.

October sees the launch of an O’Donnells multipack, which will be available in two flavours, Irish Cider Vinegar & Sea Salt and Mature Irish Cheese & Red Onion and, this Christmas, O’Donnells will be introducing a seasonal gift box.

O’Donnells crisps are said to be perfect for that moment of indulgence when you need solace from the outside world. They are available in impulse 50g or 125g sharing bags.

Source:* Nielsen Markettrack Value sales MAT M/J 2016.

New on-the-go NüDEST offers no-fuss, nutritious snacking

A

new first-of-its-kind snack was launched last month. NüDEST is said to be perfect on-the-go food, made from 100% natural fruit puree, Greek style yoghurt and whole grains, packed in a neat pouch ready to pop in a handbag or gym bag for an easy breakfast, or midmorning snack.

With no artificial ingredients, added sugar, preservatives, artificial flavourings or colours, the initial range includes two flavours packed with natural sources of protein and fibre, NüDEST Apple, Pear, Wheat and Cinnamon and NüDEST Banana, Oats, Honey & Vanilla.

“After two years in development, we are finally here and we couldn’t be more excited about the launch of NüDEST,” said Fiona Keane, founder and CEO of NüDEST.

48

Overhang is re-modelled for the convenience sector N

atural pick-me-up drink, Overhang, has been re-modelled for the convenience sector, with a new 250ml bottle launched last month, one year on from its initial launch.

“We are excited to be launching our 250ml variant which we feel will open doors to a new cross section of consumers,” said William Wilkinson, director of Overhang Drinks. “We have had some great uptake from convenience stores across the country since Overhang first launched last year and this move sets in stone our commitment to the sector. The lower price which comes with the smaller bottle should be attractive to consumers and we hope it will encourage those who might not have tried Overhang to give it a go.

“The smaller version will also make it more practical to fit into the fridge sections, allowing those in need of an impulsive Overhang to ‘grab and go’ without the need to chill at home beforehand. As the industry moves away from sugary soft drinks and towards healthier options, we feel that Overhang is the perfect option for consumers in need of a pickme-up.”

Overhang is a revitalising and natural energy drink that can be enjoyed at any time of day.

Huge range of new, used and ex-demo Food Machinery immediately available

Tel: 02890 994 202 Mob: 075 8149 3156 www.hendersonfoodmachinery.com sales@hendersonfoodmachinery.com

A NEW company with an established reputation in the food industry

Providing solutions suited to your requirements.

Unit 5, Madines Site, 79 Downpatrick Road, Crossgar BT30 9EH

We are one of Ireland’s leading Specialist Field Marketing agencies providing a face and voice for our clients brands at the point of purchase.

Sales Outsourcing, Merchandising, Auditing, Technical Services Unit 2, 1 Edgewater Road, Belfast Harbour Estate, Belfast, BT3 9JQ info@contractpeople.com www.contractpeople.com Tel: +44 28 9077 0999

Q&A WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED? The biggest influence on me is advice I received from Ian Doherty, the managing director of Doherty’s. He told me to ‘always allow time to think things through before allowing thoughts to pass my lips’. It’s great advice for a manager and particularly someone in sales and marketing!

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST GRIPE? People who don’t listen. I can be a bit impatient if I have to repeat myself.

WHAT TALENT WOULD YOU LIKE TO HAVE? I love music and would like to be able to master the piano. My wife is a music teacher and has tried to help me to realise this ambition… without success. Our three sons are all involved in music and have played in various orchestras including the Ulster Orchestra.

Brian McQuaid

In the Hot Seat Brian McQuaid, sales manager, James Doherty Meats TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF I am sales manager of James Doherty Meats in Derry. I’ve held this post from 1997 and have been with the company since leaving school. I’ve held a number of posts in the business over the years. Doherty’s is a family company processing a range of quality meat products, many of them gluten-free, such as traditional Irish pork sausages, burgers, meatballs and mince, the latter renowned for its quality and outstanding taste throughout the North West.

I live in Derry with Deborah, my wife, and we have three sons.

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY INVOLVE? There really isn’t a typical day. I can be working at my desk on sales activities such as preparing for meetings with existing and potential customers in Northern Ireland, Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland.

Often I’ll be on the road or in the air. We have significant business with supermarkets in Britain and developing sales in the Republic of Ireland. I am usually in these markets every week. When I am in the office, I check our stock levels and dispatch records regularly. There’ll also be meetings with the directors and other members of staff. While I have a monthly meeting with the directors, we are a compact operation and tend to talk to each other on a regular and informal basis.

50

WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE? Being appointed sales manager and seeing the growth of the business particularly in terms of our sales to major retailers in Northern Ireland, Britain, and the Republic. Seeing our range of meat products in stores like Tesco and Asda in Britain is tremendous. I’ve also been involved in the new Do it Right with Doherty’s branding that we’ve just launched. We are all very excited about the refreshed branding. It moves the business onto another level. Feedback from customers has also been extremely positive.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? I love the travelling and meeting people… and getting a result in the shape of new business. I get a real buzz when a retailer, especially a new customer, places an order for our products. We have a great team at Doherty’s – just 45 of us - which makes working there really enjoyable.

We all pull together.

WHAT IS YOUR MOST DIFFICULT TASK? Logistics. Making sure our products reach customers on time specified in their order is a key issue for me. When the products leave the factory, we are dependent on the transport company. I’ll spend time monitoring the delivery stages that are out of our control. As far as I am concerned, there’s nothing worse for a salesman than products arriving late.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS/ AMBITIONS? My focus is on maximising the business potential of our new corporate identity and product branding – Do it Right with Doherty’s. We’ve invested a huge amount of time and other resources on the new branding. It’s given us a contemporary identity and further enhanced the professionalism of the entire business.

Everyone in the company has bought into it and customers are also very positive. My plan/ambition is to convert the positive feedback into a substantial increase in business. I am excited by the new branding and confident that it will lead to new business especially in our key export markets of Britain and the Republic.

WHOM DO YOU MOST ADMIRE? I have an interest in the US Presidential election and been watching Fareed Zakaria on CNN. He has tremendous insight, vast knowledge of American politics and great presentation skills.

WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE? There’s only one place for us. It’s Antibes, a resort town between Cannes and Nice on the French Riviera. I really enjoy everything about France, the culture, people, and food.

As a result, we tend to head to France every summer.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD PRODUCT? A good fillet steak with chips, onions and mushrooms is hard to beat.

HOW DO YOU RELAX? Walking and music. I’ll put on the headphones and go for a long walk. I love listening to classical music especially Mozart’s brilliant Clarinet Concerto.

Tel: +44 (0)28 9099 4202 www.hendersonfoodmachinery.com

Altogether more.

Customers love Northern Ireland’s multi-award winning food and drink products We have a superb track record at the Great Taste Awards, Irish Quality Food Awards and the Blas na hEireann Awards.

It’s the combination of our quality environment and innovative producers who are dedicated to traceability, passionate about quality and driven to go the extra mile.

To find out more about how Northern Irish food and drink can help drive your business forward, visit BuyNIFood.com

BuyNIFood.com