Continues to grow and now has 177 stores in cities and towns across the country
KAVANAGH’S SUPERVALU, DONEGAL TOWN
Have launched their magnificent revamped store following a substantial €2.5 million investment
FITALL SHOPFITTERS
One of Ireland’s foremost specialists in shop fittings, signage and display equipment
Tel: (046) 9241923
ALDI IRELAND
Marks its 25th anniversary with the announcement of a €400m investment plan
DONOHOES SUPERVALU
BALLYCONNELL
We touched base with owner Darren Donohoe
LIDL IRELAND
Named the Most Reputable Retailer in the Ireland RepTrak 2024 Report
SUPERVALU THOMASTOWN
Michelle McGrath was named the Mid-Size Supermarket Manager of the Year 2 6 12 17 30 36 50 62 56 68 22 47 22 50 12 68 62
JOHN B DOCKRELL UC
Growing and packing top quality vegetables in Wexford for decades now
CLARKE’S FRESH FRUIT
Synonymous with excellence in fruit growing
LONDIS CASTLEBRIDGE
Has undergone an extensive transformation and refurbishment
CASTLE FREE RANGE EGGS
A Bord Bia approved free range egg producer and packer
GROCERY & RETAIL NEWS
Musgrave appoints Luke Hanlon as Managing Director of Supervalu and Centra
Musgrave Group Plc has announced the appointment of Luke Hanlon as Managing Director of SuperValu and Centra, two of Ireland’s leading grocery retail and convenience brands. He takes up the role with immediate effect following the conclusion of a comprehensive Executive search process.
Luke, who has been leading the SuperValu and Centra business on an interim basis since March this year, will transition to his new position from his Executive role as Musgrave’s Chief Supply Chain Officer.
A Musgrave veteran of 21 years, Luke held senior operational roles with Kerry Group before joining the Company in 2003 as an Operations Manager.
Musgrave CEO Noel Keeley said: “Luke’s appointment reflects the success he has had across multiple roles with Musgrave, ranging from supply chain, to transformation, and subsequently human resources. Having led the business on an interim basis for several months, Luke is strongly positioned to continue his leadership of SuperValu and Centra, working closely with our valued colleagues and committed retail partners across the country. Luke brings a wealth of knowledge and proven leadership to this position, and I look forward to working with him to continue to develop
world-class brands, offering outstanding customer focused food and beverage experiences.”
Newly appointed Managing Director of SuperValu and Centra Luke Hanlon said: “It is a great source of pride for me to lead SuperValu and Centra, two iconic Irish brands at what is an exciting time for the retail sector. What sets SuperValu and Centra apart is not just our rich heritage in food and brand innovation, but our unique network of independent retail partners across Ireland. I look forward to working with our dedicated retailers, and all my colleagues at Musgrave, to build on our reputation for quality fresh food, strong value, consistent support of local producers and unmatched expertise and customer service across our store networks.”
Luke is a Chartered Director with the Institute of Chartered Directors Ireland and a graduate of the Irish Management Institute (Masters of Business) and University College Cork (BSc Food Science).
SuperValu serves over 2.9 million customers every week with 220 stores nationwide and Centra serves over 3.6 million customers per week with a total of 498 stores across the country.
Together with their retail partners, the brands employ 27,550 colleagues across Ireland.
GROCERY & RETAIL NEWS
New research commissioned by Supervalu highlights startling changes to dinnertime habits
AS PART of SuperValu’s new Dinner Time Well Spent campaign, it has launched a comprehensive study on the current state of dinnertime rituals in Irish households. The findings reveal both the enduring significance of family mealtimes and the increasing challenges posed by modern lifestyles.
According to the research, 80% of people in Ireland still believe that dinnertime is an important ritual that brings their family closer together and is a habit that we can’t afford to lose. 8 in 10 also expressed a desire to share more meals together, recognising the importance of this time spent with loved ones. Additionally, 92% of households with children over 5 years old want to have dinner together more often yet 1 in 5 are only doing it twice a week.
The research has also highlighted other alarming stats that uncover significant obstacles to families and households maintaining regular mealtimes. And it appears that although the desire to sit down and eat together is strong, technology, busy schedules and the effort of making the meal, means Ireland is on a downward spiral when it comes to taking this important pause at the end of each day.
As for those who are taking the time to sit together for dinner, more than two thirds of the country eat dinner on the couch in front of the TV each week, with 1 in 5 (23%) doing this five times a week! These figures highlight the growing fragmentation of family meal times, and pose questions on how future generations will be impacted by this detachment.
Distractions at mealtime are another major concern, with over half (55%) of those surveyed acknowledging that they experience some form of disruption during dinner. The most common barrier, cited by 23%, is the difficulty of getting everyone together at the same time. Furthermore, a staggering 60% of households let family members use a device during meals as phones and TV perceived most permissible. In addition, 30% of households allow laptops at the table, indicating that work and other obligations are increasingly encroaching on this valuable family time.
Interestingly, Monday (31%) is the day most likely for us to share a meal together outside of Sunday (33%). However, Tuesday (3%), Wednesday (3%) and Thursday (4%) are the least likely days, potentially indicating that, amongst other possibilities, the hybrid
working model (most popular days in the office) could be having an impact on mealtimes.
While there is a clear recognition of the benefits of shared meals, the research also reveals that for many, preparing dinner has become a source of stress, with 31% of adults viewing it as a chore. Nearly half (49%) of respondents expressed a desire to cook from scratch more often, but cited a lack of time or energy as the main reasons for not doing so — an issue particularly prevalent among younger adults aged 1835, where the figure rises to 59%.
This research coincides with the launch of SuperValu’s Dinner Time Well Spent campaign which encourages people of Ireland to take back dinnertime and remember to pause, together, at the end of each day and enjoy dinner.
Commenting on the findings, Shane Lynch, SuperValu Marketing Manager said: “At SuperValu, we understand the importance of dinnertime as a moment for families to reconnect. Our research shows that while the desire to preserve this tradition is strong, there are significant barriers that need to be addressed. We are committed to helping families across Ireland reclaim dinnertime, making it easier for them to come together, enjoy a meal, and strengthen their relationships. Our ‘Dinner Time Well Spent’ campaign is a call to families to prioritise the dinnertime tradition, by coming together and enjoying the freshest, best tasting quality food that makes every family dinner a special occasion”
To support the spread of awareness on the ground across Ireland and to really drive this movement to reclaim dinnertime, SuperValu is leaning into the universal, cross-cultural ritual: lighting a candle on the dinner table. As part of the campaign people are being encouraged to put away all the gadgets that interfere with the dinnertime conversation and light a candle or two to demonstrate that its family down time. To get people started SuperValu are gifting a number of candles that will enhance any dinner table – for more information check out XX
*Research was carried out by Empathy Research’s proprietary research panel in early August 2024 with a national sample of 1000 18+ adults.
New ALDI store opens in Ennis GROCERY & RETAIL NEWS
ALDI’s new store in Ennis, Co Clare opened recently, creating 30 new permanent jobs. It continues ALDI’s nationwide expansion and represents an investment of over €4 million in the local area.
Located at Westpoint Retail Park, the store becomes ALDI’s 2nd store in Ennis, 5th store in County Clare and 162nd store nationwide.
It was officially opened by the local team, Store Manager, Tomas Darela and ALDI Play Rugby Ambassador and former Ireland Rugby Captain, Paul O’Connell.
The spacious store features ALDI’s award winning Project Fresh layout, including wide aisles, electronic shelf labels, hi-spec features, and fittings, as well as six self-service checkout.
ALDI’s existing stores are deeply rooted in their local communities across County Clare. To date, the stores have donated almost 33,000 meals to local charities through FoodCloud.
Tesco Ireland completes move to barn, free range and organic eggs
Tesco Ireland has confirmed that all its own label range of fresh eggs now contains barn, free range, and organic eggs only, reflecting a welfare commitment to do so before 2025.
Ahead of its committed schedule, and working with its long-term partner, Greenfield Foods, Co Monaghan, Tesco has successfully moved all its almost 20 million dozen eggs sold annually to barn, free range, and organic Irish farmed eggs only.
All of Tesco Ireland’s eggs are sourced from Bord Bia accredited Irish farms, and with this improvement in welfare standards, builds on the retailer’s ongoing commitment to support sustainable Irish agriculture and producers.
Fresh category director, John Brennan, Tesco Ireland, said “Our partners in Greenfield Foods are the egg-sperts in the industry leading the way on sustainability of the sector, and that includes bird welfare.
Since late last year, following considerable investment and a carefully planned transition, this move to barn, free range, and organic only eggs in our range, is a significant step-up in welfare
standards for the poultry industry in Ireland.
Furthermore, customers can be assured that when buying Tesco eggs, they are purchasing 100% Irish eggs, reflecting our commitment to Irish agriculture and high-quality standards.
And we’re not done yet, by year end, we hope to have transitioned all Tesco products, which contain eggs, to be made using barn eggs.”
Tesco is a significant contributor to the Irish economy and is playing a leading role in the development of the Irish food and agriculture sectors through its support of a 500 strong network Irish suppliers, and in turn over 13,000 farming families. All the fresh beef, chicken, lamb, pork, and eggs that Tesco Ireland sells are 100% Irish.
Analysis by Indecon Economic Consultants confirms that Tesco is the single largest retail purchaser of Irish food and drink in the world, buying €1.6 billion of Irish food and drink annually, which is more than the value of Irish food and drink exported to any country in the European Union.
SPAR and Kellie Harrington celebrate stay in the game competition winners GROCERY & RETAIL NEWS
SPAR recently teamed up with two-time Olympic Gold Medallist and Irish boxing legend Kellie Harrington to announce the winners of SPAR’s Stay in the Game competition. The competition, a key initiative of the SPAR Community Fund 2024, launched in May and aimed at empowering teenage girls in sports and addressing the challenges they face in sustaining their participation.
Led by Harrington, the competition invited the public to nominate a local club or school making a difference in the participation and empowerment of young girls in sport for the chance to win one of five €2,000 prizes and a unique opportunity to meet and engage with Kellie Harrington in an interactive SPAR Stay in the Game workshop. A total of 279 clubs entered the competition from all over Ireland and from a diverse array of sports.
The five clubs that have won the SPAR Stay in the Game competition are Aglish Boxing Club, Co. Mayo, Flesk Valley Rowing Club, Co. Kerry, Kildallan LGFA, Co. Cavan, Kevins Hurling and Camogie Club, Dublin and Rathdrum Girls Rugby Club, Co. Wicklow. Each club will receive the prize fund and two members of each club also took part in the interactive workshop with Kellie.
Harrington has served as a SPAR brand ambassador since 2021 and this marks the fourth collaboration between Harrington and SPAR as part of the SPAR Community Fund Programme. With more than 400 SPAR stores rooted in communities all around Ireland, SPAR and its nationwide network of local community retailers have always been a major supporter of sport at national and local level. This campaign is an extension of the ongoing commitment that SPAR has to the communities in which it operates. Established in 2021, the SPAR Community Fund Programme has distributed nearly €100,000 to local clubs, groups, and associations across the country over the past three years.
SPAR Sales Director, Colin Donnelly said: “It has been fantastic to see the engagement from schools and clubs in the SPAR Stay in the Game competition and to hear about and see the work being done around local communities. The
deserved winners are creating real change for teenage girls in sport in their local areas. This is the aim of our campaign here at SPAR, and to see such positive impacts on lives across Ireland from sport this summer has being special. We are so proud to have Kellie Harrington as our ambassador, she is a real role model for teenage girls across Ireland. To be able to give young girls across the country an opportunity to meet her and interact with her will inspire them and show the possibilities of sport if you stick with it and work hard.”
SPAR Brand Ambassador Kellie Harrington added: “I am incredibly proud to work with SPAR as a brand ambassador and to support the Stay in the Game competition. The work that is being done in local communities is remarkable to see and to be able to play even a small part in that is a privilege. Investment and support given to community funded sports clubs is something that is very important to me and it is a huge part of why I am where I am today and why I get to represent Ireland on the world stage.”
For more information on the SPAR Community Fund, please visit www.spar.ie/communityfund.
TESCO IRELAND CONTINUES EXPANSION WITH NEW STORE OPENINGS
Embedded in communities nationwide for over 25 years, Tesco Ireland continues to grow and now has 177 stores in cities and towns across the country.
Tallaght, Blanchardstown, Townsend Street, Dublin, Gandon Court, Portlaoise and Kileely Road, Limerick are among the new stores the retail giant has added to its estate in 2024. The openings are part of a multi-million euro investment in new store openings, extensive store refit and refurbishment upgrade programmes as well as ongoing maintenance of its growing property portfolio. This significant expenditure underpins Tesco’s continued commitment to the Irish retail market and to Irish jobs.
The new store openings have led to the creation of around 200 roles, bringing the total figure to around 13,500 nationwide. Furthermore, Tesco supports almost 45,000 jobs directly and indirectly and is the single largest retailer purchaser of Irish food and drink in the world, buying €1.6 billion a year, more than any other single country in the European Union.
Tesco Ireland Chief Operating Officer Geoff Byrne says the store openings and refurbishments are good news for customers.
“We have an ambitious development strategy for the
business and are very excited to be expanding. We remain as committed as ever to delivering a rewarding shopping experience for our customers which offers real value,” he commented.
“We’re growing our store footprint and adding 200 roles to our expanding store estate.
“These roles provide a great opportunity for retail job seekers to find a route into a brand-new career, or maybe back to the workplace, with fully flexible banded-hour contracts in their local communities up and down the country.”
Last year, Tesco announced a campaign of price cuts for customers, reducing the prices on more than 700 products by an average of 10%. Tesco’s Price Cuts are a key part of its commitment to give customers great value on their shopping and complements other value offerings such as Aldi Price Match and Clubcard Prices.
Tesco’s core purpose is ‘Serving our customers, communities and planet a little better every day’. This is at the heart of everything it does. The retailer believes that every little help makes a big difference and aims to live that
Tesco Ireland commits to using biomethane to fuel its transport fleet
value in the Tesco Ireland business every single day.
As a retail business, serving its customers is Tesco’s focus, and its people bring this to life every day, helping to create the best shopping experience possible, while delivering quality and value for customers around Ireland. At Tesco, they believe in treating each other with respect and creating a work environment where everybody has an equal opportunity to get on.
Supporting local suppliers is central to Tesco Ireland’s business ethos. It sources from over 500 Irish food and drink suppliers and supports over 13,000 farm families nationwide. Almost three-quarters of these suppliers are small and
medium enterprises, with fewer than 250 employees.
All of the fresh chicken, beef, pork and lamb that Tesco Ireland sells is 100% Irish.
In 2021, Tesco was proud to form the first retail partnership with Love Irish Food to grow awareness of member products in our stores nationwide. Being a sustainable business is also very important to Tesco Ireland as it works to a net zero target of 2035 for its own operations.
Tesco Ireland is proud to be a good neighbour and support the communities it serves. The retailer has a longterm charity partnership with Children’s Health Foundation and the Tesco Community Fund also supports hundreds
Tesco and Love Irish Food retail partnership helps Irish brands grow
Supporting Irish agrifood
of good causes around the country with donations every 12 weeks. In addition to this, Tesco works with FoodCloud and Olio to redistribute surplus food at the end of each day.
Tesco Ireland also runs the Stronger Starts programme in partnership with Good Grub and with support from some of its suppliers, helping families facing food insecurity in Ireland.
Business in the Community (BITC) is a non-profit business network that encourages corporate social responsibility and sustainability. Tesco Ireland is proud to be one of few retail companies to have received the BITC Business Working Responsibly Mark in recognition of our commitments to sustainability and CSR.
Tesco Ireland recently rolled out its Clubcard Prices offering to Express format stores, which is proving to be popular with convenience customers. Through Clubcard, of which there are over one million members, customers have access to exclusive deals on everything from everyday staples to treats, while also being rewarded with Clubcard points.
Tesco Ireland is headed up by Natasha Adams who was appointed as CEO in February 2022, having been the Chief People Officer prior to that.
As Chief People Officer, Natasha was a Trustee for
Tesco Ireland is proud to be a good neighbour and support the communities it serves. The retailer has a long-term charity partnership with Children’s Health Foundation and the Tesco Community Fund also supports hundreds of good causes around the country with donations every 12 weeks. In addition to this, Tesco works with FoodCloud and Olio to redistribute surplus food at the end of each day
The official opening of the new Citywest store
The Taste of Tradition
the Tesco Pension Scheme, sat on the Tesco Cyber Security Committee and Tesco Privacy and Data Committee, advisor to both the Tesco Board and the Remuneration and Nominations & Governance Committees on remuneration, succession planning and recruitment while also being a Steering Group Member for both Movement to Work and the 30% Club.
Natasha is a Companion of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, a trustee for IGD and a Non-Executive Director for Berkeley Holding Group Limited. A Tesco colleague since 1998, Natasha has held a
Tesco Stronger Starts Schools Programme has provided over one million free meals to primary school children and families
number of leadership roles in Retail Operations and People functions, always enjoying the pace colleagues, customers and suppliers bring to the retail environment.
(0)1 215 2000
Web: www.tescoireland.ie
Tesco Ireland has extended its partnership with cheese company Bandon Vale
The new Tesco store in Portlaoise
We’re
Kavanagh’s Donegal Town
HISTORIC UPGRADE FUTURE PROOFS KAVANAGH’S SUPERVALU DONEGAL TOWN
Kavanagh’s SuperValu Donegal Town have launched their magnificent revamped store following a substantial €2.5 million investment. The completely-transformed state-of-the-art, new-look store offers new and expanded in-store bakery, deli, meat and fish counters as well as energy saving refrigeration and LED lighting sustainability measures.
For more than three decades, Kavanagh’s SuperValu Donegal Town have been providing unbeatable grocery and retail services to the local community and the store’s standing at the very heart of this bustling community has been cemented by a landmark major overhaul and upgrade of the premises, which was officially launched on June 20th this year.
The total transformation of Kavanagh’s SuperValu Donegal Town greatly enhances the shopper experience, with the fresh and modern new store offering freshly baked bread from their in-store bakery, new grab-and-go food options from the deli, and additional ranges like the Donnybrook Fair, Supervalu Kitchen Range, premium Italian, Eastern
European foods and The Happy Pear.
The store – which generates direct employment for a brilliant team of 65 and is one of twelve Super Valus located in counties Donegal, Galway, Mayo and Sligo comprising the Kavanagh Group - also offers an extended range of eco-friendly products, and new and exciting Italian pasta, meats and sauces. Shoppers can also avail of SuperValu’s Signature Tastes and expanded Own Brand ranges, providing even more high-quality and value-for-money options.
Supporting local is of key importance to the team in SuperValu Donegal Town and spoiled-for-choice customers can try out products from local producers in the Taste of Local in-store offering including O’Donnells bread, Inish
Noel Kavanagh Snr officially opening the magnificent revamped store
The completely-transformed state-of-the-art, new-look store
foods and Morans jam to namedrop just a few.
Sustainability was a central focus as Kavanagh’s SuperValu received this fantastic facelift, with the team going to extensive lengths to be as environmentally conscious as possible in designing the new-look store. Energy efficient refrigeration and LED lighting are incorporated seamlessly into the store’s innovative design. It is envisaged that these measures will lead to a 40% reduction in energy consumption across the premises as well as a 30% reduction in carbon emissions.
Kavanagh’s SuperValu has been a longstanding supporter of the local community in the town and its environs for over 30 years, having opened its doors in 1993 and been part of the fabric of Donegal ever since. The store has supported
many local charities and teams down through the years including Donegal Hospice, Solace Centre, Four Masters GAA, Donegal Town FC and many more.
Commenting on the launch of the new store, Noel Kavanagh, store owner commented: “We are delighted to be opening our new look store after significant investment and significant hard work from the team. The new state-ofthe-art store will deliver premium, quality and fantastic value to our customers through offerings including our new look Bakery, Food-to-Go and Fresh Meat Counter with our Expert Butchers, as well as fantastic local products in our Taste of Local section.
“We believe in enhancing local communities by caring for our environment, so we are particularly proud of the
dedicated eco-friendly technologies throughout the new store. We can’t wait to bring our new offering to the people of Donegal and are extremely grateful to all our loyal customers who continue to support us in the local community. We look forward to seeing them in store again soon.”
The reimagining of Kavanaghs Donegal Town is part of SuperValu’s continuing revamp and upgrade programme which is being undertaken at stores nationwide. This revamp programme is designed to enhance the customer experience, with a focus on SuperValu’s market-leading butcher, baker and fishmonger counters. It is also designed to extend the group’s local and Irish product offering –another area of market leadership for SuperValu, with supporting local and Irish suppliers being an inherent part of SuperValu’s DNA.
Garreth Ferry has been store manager at Kavanagh’s SuperValu Donegal Town for 14 years. “We did a revamp
We’re known for fresh food and with a complete new bakery, deli, meat and fish departments, we can expand and improve our fresh food offering going forward
Providing unbeatable grocery and retail services to the local community
The store has received a substantial €2.5 million investment
Áine McGroary, Paul Gallagher (Grocery Manager) and Marisa Harley
Wishes and Continued Success to Kavanagh’s Supervalu Donegal
1, Northern Point Business Park, Sessaighoneill, Ballybofey, Co. Donegal Phone: 00353 (0) 749131060 | Email: tony@carr.ie | www.carr.ie
Wishes and Continued Success to Kavanagh’s Supervalu Donegal
Wishes and Continued Success to Kavanaghs SuperValu
in 2012 and this year’s revamp was a complete overhaul,” he reveals. “We purchased a couple of adjoining units in the shopping centre and extended into them and upgraded everything in the store to install a new floor, new refrigeration, new tills and counters, everything… The result is a fresh new store from top to bottom.
“We have been trading as SuperValu in Donegal town for 31 years and this revamp futureproofs us to continue serving the local community for decades to come.”
The ‘local’ ethos is extremely important to Kavanagh’s SuperValu Donegal Town, as Garreth confirms: “We employ 65 staff and they are all local people and that is very important to us. It’s all about local – we serve local customers and support local organisations, charities and clubs. We try to support every local cause that we possibly can, investing up to €20,000 a year in sponsorships.
“Our staff numbers are rising all the time and the intention
is to keep growing. This upgrade gives us a perfect platform to do so.
“We’re known for fresh food and with a complete new bakery, deli, meat and fish departments, we can expand and improve our fresh food offering going forward,” the store manager concludes. “We’re very lucky to be one of the twelve stores in the Kavanagh Group. Kavanaghs have always given us great support and back-up and this massive investment underlines their total commitment to the store.”
KAVANAGH’S SUPERVALU DONEGAL TOWN,
Donegal Shopping Centre, The Glebe, Donegal Town.
Tel: 074 972 2977
Email: donegal@kavanaghgroup.ie
Web: www.kavanaghgroup.ie
Supporting local is of key importance to the team in SuperValu Donegal Town
A fresh and modern new store
EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST
FitAll Shopfitters Ltd has established itself as one of Ireland’s foremost specialists in shop fittings, signage and display equipment over the last 30 years.
Based in Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick, FitAll Shopfitters is a one-stop shop for all your shop fitting and signage needs. Endeavouring to make your fitting experience as easy and as stress-free as possible, its team of designers and highly-skilled fitters provide turnkey design and installation services to all major retail sectors across Ireland.
FitAll Shopfitters is a leading designer and installer of quality visual display products, shop fitting and exhibition displays. It has a wealth of experience in fitting out a variety of shop types, from grocery shops, supermarkets and filling stations to pharmacies, opticians, hardware stores and motor factors. The company’s product range has been fine-tuned with expertise built up over the years from shop shelving to slat wall and shop counters. FitAll Shopfitters never compromises on quality and is committed to customer service and quick turnaround from order to delivery.
“Our capabilities include fittings and signage for the retail, leisure, food, pharmacy, commercial and education sectors,”
Handling all their customers’ signage needs
Specialists in shop fittings, signage and display equipment over the last 30 years
Providing turnkey design and installation services to all major retail sectors
Joanne O’Connor of FitAll Shopfitters explains.
“Our enthusiastic advisors, designers and engineers are here to help you select the right solutions for your business. We offer a first-class service and high-quality products. We’re renowned for our attention to detail and ability to complete projects on time. We are always willing to go the extra mile for our valued customers and clients.”
FitAll Shopfitters is a family-run business which was founded by Pat Donovan and John Larkin – Joanne’s brother – and employs 13 people. Its former sister company, Sigma Signs, is now incorporated into FitAll Shopfitters. From the moment you contact them, the FitAll team strives to carefully identify the unique requirements of your business, working hard to ensure that the right fittings or signage are developed for your project.
The company’s creative team offers you innovative designs, whether you require wood, metal or plastic finishes, and can even support you in your own designs. The production and install teams are experts in crafting and then
fitting out your projects with careful precision. Making sure that you, your staff and your customers are fully satisfied is key to the way the business works. This is what drives FitAll Shopfitters to design and prepare the right solutions for your business.
As trusted suppliers of quality shelving counters, stands and displays, FitAll Shopfitters makes sure your shop or commercial premises receive the best engineered solution to suit your needs. With every project requirement being unique, the engineering team has what it takes to custombuilt fittings to your exact needs. Safety, durability and quality of finish are core to their solutions.
The design team provides signs, displays, frames and graphic work, ensuring you can provide your customers with clear messaging and a comprehensive branding experience. Carefully managing fit outs and minimising business interruption is critical to FitAll Shopfitters’ clients. To this end, it ensures each project is installed with complete professionalism.
Swaad Indian Restaurant, Limerick
When it comes to accessories, the team helps you to select slatwall or pegboard hooks, racks and accessories, mannequins, trolleys, baskets and other necessary items for your premises. FitAll has earned an enviable reputation for shop fitting across Ireland through its attention to detail and ability to complete projects on time, every time. It takes great pride in handcrafting creative solutions with a high-end finish you will love.
Examples of FitAll Shopfitters’ work can be found all over the country. Regular clients include Gala, Costcutter, Carry Out Off-Licence, Wurth, Your Stop and Aunty Nellie’s Sweet Shop. Recently completed projects include Brink Stores Gala in Navan; Gala in Cork City; Bosheen Gala in New Ross; Carry Out in Killarney; Gala in Lifford, Co. Donegal; Gala in Ballyconnell, Co. Cavan; Top Oil Filling Station in Lock Quay, Limerick; Your Stop, Parnell Street, Limerick; Castletroy College in Limerick; Wurth in Ballysimon Road, Limerick; Costcutter, Bridge Street, Cork; Vision 2 Opticians, Sarsfield Street, Limerick; Neville Jewellers, Wilton Shopping Centre, Cork; and Hennessy’s Gala in Kilmeaden, Co. Waterford.
Joanne is full of praise for the FitAll Shopfitters team who have been central to the company’s growth and success.
“Our people are our greatest asset,” she says.
“We have a fantastic, skilled, loyal and hard-working crew who take immense pride in their work. Every job is different which means there is plenty of variety to the work.”
As FitAll Shopfitters continues to go from strength to strength, the longstanding company would like to take this opportunity to thank its customers and suppliers for their continued support as well as its staff and subcontractors for their hard work, dedication and expertise.
LTD
Clash Road, Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick, V94 D577.
Telephone: 068 32666
Email: info@fitall.ie
Web: www.fitall.ie
“We are always willing to go the extra mile for our valued customers and clients”
FITALL SHOPFITTERS
FitAll Shopfitters is a one-stop shop for all your shop fitting and signage needs
ALDI IRELAND HAS EVERY REASON TO CELEBRATE LANDMARK ANNIVERSARY
As Aldi Ireland marks its 25th anniversary with the announcement of a €400m investment plan, group managing director Niall O’Connor confirms that they are “looking to the next 25 years with as much focus and excitement as ever”.
Aldi has completely transformed the Irish grocery retail landscape since opening its first stores here in 1999. And there will be no let-up in the relentless progression as Aldi Ireland is every bit as focused on the future as was the case in achieving exceptional results across the board for its first quarter of a century serving Irish customers.
Marking 25 years in Ireland, Aldi published an impressive economic report in June and announced a massive €400 million investment in 30 new stores, which will be developed over the next five years and create 1,000 new jobs.
The report titled ‘Aldi in Ireland, 1999-2024’ and authored by DCU Professor Anthony Foley, shows that Aldi’s economic contribution to Ireland in 2023 was €757 million as the retailer spent €1.1 billion with Irish suppliers. Indeed, there is a very positive upward trend discernible here as Irish suppliers now account for almost half of all sales at Aldi, who have reported a 58% increase in purchases from Irish suppliers since 2019.
At the time of writing, the retailer employed more than 4,650 people across Ireland – a figure that continues to rise – and their staff retention rates are staggering, with over 50% of the members originally employed by Aldi in 1999 still with the company today.
Working with more than 330 Irish suppliers at present, Aldi Ireland has to date spent €10.2 billion with the Irish supply network. Meanwhile, their conscientious community work has seen them give back in excess of €25 million to more than 1,000 charities and local organisations in the Republic of Ireland.
Due to the value, choice and convenience offered, Aldi continues to gain traction in Ireland, with its stores busy around the clock and new ones opening on a regular basis. Over the past 25 years, they have recorded close to 900 million customer visits to their stores in Ireland.
As they look back on 25 years of growth and progress whilst simultaneously looking to the future, Niall O’Connor, group managing director Aldi Ireland, commented: “Delivering value for Ireland – for shoppers, suppliers and
Niall O’Connor, Group Managing Director of Aldi Ireland
staff – has been our guiding principle throughout our time in Ireland.
“Since first entering the Irish market 25 years ago, Aldi has had a significant positive impact on the Irish grocery market. We introduced the discount retailer model to Ireland which has succeeded in delivering low prices, value, choice and competition to the Irish retail market.
“As we mark our 25-year milestone and look back on our
achievements, we’re just as ambitious for the future. Based upon projected customer growth, we expect to serve our one billionth customer in 2025.
“We’re committed to playing a leading role in meeting the growing demand for new retail offerings, and by 2029 we will spend another €400 million in capital expenditure on 30 new stores, adding 1,000 new colleagues.
“Times may change, but our unwavering commitment to
value never will, and we’re looking to the next 25 years with as much focus and excitement as ever.”
With regard to Aldi’s landmark anniversary and their ‘Aldi in Ireland, 1999-2024’ report, Emer Higgins TD, the Minister of State with responsibility for Business, Employment and Retail, observed: “I’d like to congratulate Aldi and their customers, suppliers and staff, on celebrating 25 years of business in Ireland.
Aldi Carrigaline store opens
Working with more than 330 Irish Suppliers
“This Economic Impact Report shows the scale of the impact that Aldi has had in terms of delivering increased economic activity across the country – whether that’s by supporting indigenous Irish producers, providing new shopping alternatives for customers or creating well-paid jobs for thousands of people.
“I wish Aldi every success for the future and hope they can have the same positive impact on the country over the next 25 years.”
To celebrate their 25th anniversary and a journey that took them from their first two stores in 1999 to 161 and counting in 2024, Aldi published a list of interesting facts documenting a voyage that has transformed Ireland’s retail sector.
Did you know, for example, that the first two Aldi stores in Ireland were opened on Parnell Street in Dublin and in Westside Retail Park in Cork? Aldi immediately started working with key Irish suppliers, including Iverk and Glenhaven. Today, Aldi has stores in every county in Ireland. Cork is the county with the most Aldi stores (27), followed closely by Dublin (26).
The store in Caherciveen, County Kerry – the 150th store to open in Ireland – holds the title of being the most westerly Aldi store in Europe.
In 2005, Aldi launched its award-winning Specially Selected range and partnered with supplier ABP Cahir to bring premium 100% Irish Bord Bia Quality Assured steak to shoppers at affordable prices.
Aldi opened its 100th store in Ireland in 2013 in Callan,
Aldi’s Managing Director of Buying & Services, Colin Breslin (left) with Dawn Meats CEO Niall Browne
County Kilkenny. The following year, Aldi partnered with FoodCloud, a not-for-profit social enterprise working to reduce the environmental and social impacts of food waste. Since then, Aldi has donated 2.5 million meals to people in need and helped save more than three million kg of CO2 emissions.
Since 2018, Aldi has operated Grow with Aldi, a supplier development programme that gives SMEs the chance to have their products featured on Aldi shelves. In that time, it has invested more than €10 million into the programme and helped nurture and support more than 330 Irish suppliers. Aldi Ireland was the first supermarket to partner with the food surplus app, which has not only been successful in addressing food waste but has also allowed Aldi to offer lower prices to their customers – providing 175,000 Surprise Bags to Aldi customers to date Aldi have paid more than €1.3 billion in wages over the past 25 years. While their overall contribution to the economy is impossible to measure, it is estimated that for
every 1% in lower prices, to which their presence undeniably contributes, consumers are saving at least €90 million per year.
As the positive tidings continued to flow during the landmark summer of 2024, Aldi Ireland were awarded the ‘Operational Excellence in Retail’ award at this year’s Operational Excellence Awards in recognition of their operational efficiency and innovation across store operations, with a significant focus on sustainability. This award recognises Aldi’s ongoing commitment to consistently improving store standards in the retail sector as a responsible and sustainable leader.
Web: www.aldi.ie
ALDI IRELAND
Birch House, Millennium Park, Osberstown, Naas, County Kildare.
Aldi Ireland announced a new mental health initiative to support colleagues in partnership with Elephant in the Room
Market leading, innovative drinks producer specialising in retailer house brands and brand co manufacturing
Glenpatrick Spring & Kilkenny Nutritional Beverage Company Powerstown, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, Ireland.
Glenpatrick Spring & Kilkenny Nutritional Beverage Company Powerstown, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, Ireland.
Glenpatrick Spring & Kilkenny Nutritional Beverage Company
Powerstown, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, Ireland.
Glenpatrick Spring & Kilkenny Nutritional Beverage Company Powerstown, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, Ireland. Telephone: 00353 52 6139656 Mobile: 00353 87 3187679
DONOHOES SUPERVALU BALLYCONNELL GETS A NEW LEASE OF LIFE
It’s been a landmark year at Donohoes Supervalu Ballyconnell as the popular family-run store has undergone a dramatic transformation that further enhances the already-excellent shopping experience at this busy grocery retail destination. We touched base with owner Darren Donohoe to find out more.
For 20 years and counting, Donohoes have been delivering an unbeatable grocery shopping experience to customers through their wellappointed Supervalu Ballyconnell store, which ticks all the boxes when it comes to quality, value, choice, convenience and service.
Across the best part of the current calendar year, Donohoes Supervalu Ballyconnell has been on the receiving end of a substantial facelift. Going forward, this total transformation of the store – with the emphasis very much on efficiency, sustainability, comfort and performance –will result in an even more enjoyable experience for each
shopper who enters the premises.
“The revamp started in February and the new store will be officially launched in September / October,” states Darren Donohoe, who fronts the successful, customer-orientated family business which also incorporates Donohoes SuperValu Ballinamore and Donohoes Centra Belturbet. “It’s a complete overhaul – we put in a 2,000 square foot extension and upgraded all the equipment. What we have now is a modern new store that’s almost unrecognisable from the original one.”
Darren admits that the refurb was both overdue and challenging: “This building is here a long time. It’s the site of
Donohoes Supervalu Ballyconnell has been on the receiving end of a substantial facelift
the old Star Plastics factory and we’ve had it going back to the ‘40s or ‘50s. In December 2023, we marked 20 years in Ballyconnell with Musgraves.
“When you are carrying out major work like this, it’s always a challenge to remain open for business and continue to look after your customers – a challenge for us, for the staff and for the customers themselves. There has been a big upheaval in the store this year but everybody has dealt with it really well because they all understood that it was for the greater good and that it’s going to benefit everyone in the long run.”
Upgrading supermarkets requires a significant investment of both money and time, but that’s all part and parcel of owning retail outlets these days and there’s simply no way around it… “It’s the same with any business,” Darren accepts. “If you don’t give your customers what they are looking for, then they will go somewhere else for it. If anything, we probably should have done this sooner. The
store was long overdue a revamp. We did Ballinamore seven year ago and we’re going to upgrade Belturbet in either 2025 or 2026. You have to stay modern and up to date.”
Donohoes have always been committed to looking after customers. “It’s always been about selling a quality product at a fair price and with good service – that’s what we have always tried to do,” says Darren. “The local community supports us by shopping in our stores and we always try to serve and support them in any way we possibly can.”
Succinctly mentioned above, are quality, service and value the cornerstones of the business? “It’s probably what every supermarket tries to do. Some do it better than others, and we do it very well.”
As part of a long-established a family business, Donohoes Supervalu Ballyconnell prides itself on consistently providing a personal touch. Today, owner Darren is joined in the day-to-day running of the three stores by his aunt Eilisheen Donohoe (HR Manager) and brother-in-law Michael Millar
The new state-of-the-art store will offer a more modern and spacious shopping experience
Donohoes Centra, Belturbet
(Group Manager) as well as an extended team of up to 160 employees.
“For me, the staff are probably the most important part of the business,” Darren continues. “People will say that customers are the most important – and that’s certainly true to a point – but for me you would be lost without your staff who look after the customers when they come in the door.
As somebody who runs three stores and works 40-60 hours a week, I don’t get to meet as many of our customers as I’d like, so the staff look after the customers and I look after the staff.
“As a large employer, it’s nice to know that’s you are providing so much employment locally, although with that comes the stress of knowing you are responsible for so many livelihoods. Having said that, I enjoy the pressure of it all … you have to do so to be successful in this line of work.”
Donohoes Supervalu Ballyconnell has been an inherent
We try to support the local community and all local clubs, charities, causes and bodies as much as we can. Not just financially, but we also try to become involved in those organisations, too
Moo’d ice cream is now available in Donohoes SuperValu, Ballyconnell
Self-Service Checkouts are in operation in-store
Donohoes SuperValu in Ballinamore
part of the local community for two decades and counting (operating under the Centra banner for the first five or so of those years). With the store totally transformed, Darren promises that community will remain at the heart of everything they do going forward:
“It’s what makes my business, really,” he concludes. “Without community support and being actively involved in the community, there is no business. We try to support the local community and all local clubs, charities, causes and bodies as much as we can. Not just financially, but we also try to become involved in those organisations, too. Our managers and senior members are very active in many local events and causes – it’s not just about money, but we put in
the man hours as well.”
Immeasurable man hours were invested into transforming Donohoes Supervalu Ballyconnell in 2024 and the results are simply spectacular!
Realta Shopping Centre, Ballyconnell, County Cavan H14 DW74
Tel: 049 9526155
Email: donohoeballyconnell@supervalu.ie
Facebook: www.facebook.com/supervaluballyconnell
DONOHOES SUPERVALU
The popular family-run store has undergone a dramatic transformation
Lidl Ireland continues to go from strength to strength, having recently been named the Most Reputable Retailer and Second Most Reputable Organisation overall in the Ireland RepTrak 2024 Report of 100 organisations.
This top position is the retailer’s highest since the study began in 2000 and underscores how Lidl’s reputation is continuing to resonate with Irish shoppers. In April, Lidl reached a record-breaking 52-week market share of 13.4%, maintaining its position as the fourth-largest chain in Ireland.
Commenting on the results, outgoing Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland CEO JP Scally said: “Our reputation as a responsible, sustainable retailer that delivers on our priceand-quality promise is paramount to our performance as a
business, and we’re delighted to see that Irish shoppers, suppliers, business partners and future employees are continuing to make Lidl their first choice.
“We have worked hard across all areas of the business to build, maintain and enhance our reputation over the years, taking calculated risks with industry-leading initiatives whilst always remaining true to who we are.
“These results reflect how we’ve crafted a unique position for ourselves, not only in supermarket retail, but as a leading brand in Ireland.”
LIDL Ireland’s new milk packaging spotlights Ladies Gaelic Football players
The first Lidl store opened up on the island in 1999. Now 25 years later, the retail giant has 180 stores, three regional distribution centres and employs more than 6,000 people in the Republic of Ireland. Lidl also has 41 stores and employs 1,300 people in Northern Ireland. Lidl takes great pride in providing its customers with the highest quality products at the lowest prices, and works with a network of more than 260 Irish suppliers from the communities it operates in to keep its shelves stocked with nutritious, fresh produce.
Lidl Ireland’s commitment to Irish jobs and suppliers is without question. It recently announced a further €15 million investment in pay increases for its existing workforce in the Republic of Ireland with a further £3 million being invested in the retailers’ operations in Northern Ireland. Lidl has invested €32 million in pay rises for employees in the Republic of Ireland with employees benefiting from an approximate 13.5% increase since February 2023. This latest investment has resulted in every Lidl employee benefitting from an approximate 6% pay rise, equal to, on average, €2,000
Lidl was the first retailer to commit to paying the new Living Wage rate of €14.80 as recommended by the Living Wage Technical Group in October 2023. It was also the first company in Ireland to adopt the Living Wage recommendation in 2015.
Dublin’s Carla Rowe opens LIDL’s new store in Newcastle
Lidl was the first retailer to commit to paying the new Living Wage rate of €14.80 as recommended by the Living Wage Technical Group in October 2023. It was also the first company in Ireland to adopt the Living Wage recommendation in 2015.
Lidl Ireland also procured more than €1.6 billion worth of goods and services from Irish suppliers and business partners in 2023. A total of €1.1 billion worth of goods was procured from the Irish agri-food industry, with an additional €500 million worth of services provided by local Irish businesses to the retailer last year.
Of the €1.1 billion worth of goods procured from local food and drink suppliers, €800 million stayed within Lidl Ireland’s operations to be sold through its local store network and more than €300 million was exported internationally through the retailer’s expansive network of stores, showcasing the best of Irish produce on the global stage. Lidl continues
to give Irish producers unrivalled access to local and international markets, supporting the growth and success of Irish produce worldwide.
From a €22 million contract with Longford baker Panelto Foods to a €1.5 million deal secured with Abbey Farm Foods in Laois, suppliers the length and breadth of Ireland have benefitted from Lidl’s support in 2023. Many of these deals included significant exports with Kildare-based cooked meats producer, O’Brien Fine Foods, securing a colossal €60 million contract with the retailer in late 2023 which has facilitated them exporting to Lidl stores across mainland Europe, including Bulgaria, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Romania and Slovenia. Meanwhile, Bantry-based Keohane’s fresh and frozen Irish seafood reaches the shores of Great Britain, Germany, Cyprus, Italy and even the USA. Alongside its established supplier network, Lidl Ireland is committed to supporting small and medium sized homegrown businesses through its industry-leading Kickstart
Work begins on the new Enfield LIDL store
The Deposit Return Scheme is live in all LIDL’s 180 stores
The recently expanded Regional Distribution Centre in Mullingar
Supplier Development Programme, supported by Bord Bia. The programme is designed to give up-and-coming Irish producers the opportunity to realise their potential by advancing their product, brand and business with dedicated support from Lidl experts. Now in its eighth year, Lidl has invested €8.5 million in growing more than 150 Irish businesses across the island of Ireland with 14 products now part of Lidl’s everyday product range.
“Growing our local supplier network has always been a priority for us and we are proud to have established relationships with almost 1,800 suppliers and business partners from Bantry to Ballyjamesduff, Gorey to Galway,” JP Scally stated.
“This year, we’re pleased to peel back the curtain for the first time and showcase our valued business partners who make our business what it is behind the scenes. Many of our
In 2023, Lidl Ireland procured more than €1.6 billion worth of goods and services from local businesses, with more than €300 million worth of goods exported globally through the Lidl network.
Launching Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland’s Kickstart Supplier Development programme
Committed to supporting Irish suppliers
Robert Ryan is the new CEO of LIDL Ireland and Northern Ireland
relationships span more than 20 years and we very much see our suppliers and business partners as an extension of ourselves. We’re proud to play a part in helping them grow, succeed and showcase their quality Irish products and services on the global stage by facilitating export deals through our global network of Lidl stores across 31 countries.
“In 2023, Lidl Ireland procured more than €1.6 billion worth of goods and services from local businesses, with more than €300 million worth of goods exported globally through the Lidl network. This record investment is a huge driver of economic growth, and this report demonstrates our commitment in supporting the entire network of local businesses to grow, develop and enjoy success.”
On October 1, Robert Ryan will take over as CEO of Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland, replacing JP Scally who was recently appointed CEO of Lidl France. Mr Ryan joined the company in 2003 and has worked across a variety of roles, including as sales operation manager and regional managing director. He was appointed to the board of directors in 2018.
Commenting on his move to France, where he previously
held the position of operations director for three years, Mr Scally said he was proud of “more than doubling our market share in both Ireland and Northern Ireland, and bringing our value offering to dozens of new communities”.
Lidl Ireland has committed over €10 million to the development and promotion of Ladies Gaelic Football since 2016 and recently completed its six-year charity partnership with Jigsaw, the national Centre for Youth Mental Health in Ireland, by announcing it has raised €3 million funds for the charity.
Jigsaw provides free confidential, professional support to young people aged 12-25 in 14 centres across Ireland and online. Lidl Ireland has partnered with Jigsaw since 2018 and twice extended its contract with the charity to continue delivering vital mental health initiatives and services to those in need across Ireland, particularly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and its significant impact on youth mental health.
Supported by its team of more than 6,000 employees and two million weekly shoppers across the country, Lidl Ireland has smashed its initial fundraising target to deliver €3 million in support to fund vital charity services and reach thousands of young people across the country struggling with their mental health.
Launched in 2018 and delivering immediate and significant impact, the partnership between Lidl and Jigsaw quickly raised awareness and trust of the charity amongst the Irish public, growing from an awareness baseline of just 24% in 2018 to 61% in 2023. Trust
in the Jigsaw baseline also grew from 64% to 72% in the same period.
Throughout the lifetime of the partnership, Jigsaw also saw a significant increase in referrals to its services across the country, rising by 49% between 2018 and 2023, with the number of appointments offered to young people in the same period jumping by over 59%.
The milestone fundraising achievement was marked at a celebratory event at the Radisson Blu, Athlone, and was attended by more than 135 representatives from Lidl and Jigsaw, as well as service users and partners that have benefitted from Jigsaw’s bespoke programmes and initiatives, delivered in partnership with Lidl Ireland.
LIDL (HEAD OFFICE)
Main Road, Tallaght, Dublin, D24 PW6K
Telephone: 01 421 2000
Web: www.lidl.ie
Market leading, innovative drinks producer specialising in retailer house brands and brand co manufacturing Glenpatrick
in retailer house brands and brand co manufacturing
“ALL OF THE GREAT ACHIEVEMENTS AND WORK HERE IS DOWN TO THE STAFF”
In May, SuperValu Thomastown’s Michelle McGrath was awarded the Mid-Size Supermarket Manager of the Year at the 2024 Grocery Management Awards.
Grocery & Retail Ireland caught up with the Kilkenny store’s manager to hear all about the award success and what it is that separates SuperValu Thomastown from the competition.
Business is good these days at SuperValu Thomastown and the plan for Michelle McGrath and the team based along the Dublin Rd, Cloghabrody, Co Kilkenny is to try and keep things that way for the foreseeable future.
Currently operating with 43 staff, the store is open Monday to Saturday from 7.30am to 10pm, Sundays 9.00am to 9.00pm and is well established within the town and also the local community.
In fact, it has been giving back to the town of Thomastown for some time now, whether it be through the sponsorship of local clubs, donations or helping out societies.
Grocery & Retail Ireland touched base with Michelle McGrath recently to learn more about this thriving business and her own background before she came to become the store’s manager.
“The store here would’ve be known as the “VG” (Supermarket) and transitioned into SuperValu and has been in three different locations over the years,” she outlined.
“I started here in Thomastown in August 2018 and I assumed the role of Store Manager in early 2020. My first retail job was when I was 16. It was a summer job in a local grocery store in Clonea Beach in Dungarvan, Co Waterford that had a takeaway to the back of it.
“During my time there, I was opening and closing as well as doing the general every day run of the mill stuff for a store. I didn’t do anything again then until I finished school in 1995 after I did my Leaving Cert, and I started with the L&N in Dungarvan. I saw the transition then from L&N to SuperValu as Musgraves were after taking over.
“I moved to Carlow in 1997 and assumed a role there as a cashier in the local SuperValu. Jim Doyle would’ve been the owner at the time and I worked with him for nine years. During that time I was promoted into the management team and completed a Diploma in Retail Management. The
Tori Murphy, Real Rewards Champion
store was sold on to Barry Arthurs in around 2006 where I continued working for a while.
“Shortly after I felt it was time to explore the other branch of the business namely the Centra brand, as I wanted to extend my knowledge of retail and get experience in the convenience side. I worked within the Centra brand for two years with PJ Hickson before returning to work for Barry after he opened a Centra store.
“I moved back then to the SuperValu brand, so I’m a bit of an all-rounder as they say. I’m 27 years at it now.”
Business at the moment is thriving for the store in Thomastown and some excellent news kicked off its summer when Michelle was named ‘Store Manager of the Year’ at the annual Grocery Management Awards.
While it was an honour for herself, she puts the success down to a team effort from her fellow employees at SuperValu Thomastown where the customer service is renowned as being excellent.
So far, 2024 has been a fantastic year business-wise and Michelle hopes to see more of the same in the coming
months, as she continues to lead an excellent team in the town set in beautiful surroundings of the Nore Valley.
“It has been absolutely brilliant. Since moving to Thomastown to work with Musgrave Group my development has gone through the roof,” she stated.
“I’m far more confident in my role as a manager and what’s expected of me, whereas before you wouldn’t really get to see a lot of the other side of the business in terms of KPIs and top end financials.
“Musgraves do work very hard to help you progress. I did win the Store Manager of the Year two years ago, so to be even nominated for this one at Grocery Management Awards I was very humbled and taken back. I never would’ve thought in a million years that I would’ve won it because you are up against really, really great retailers.
“It’s been great for the store and, to be honest, I couldn’t do any of this without the staff with me. We all work hard together and, even during Covid, they’ve came together so much that it was just amazing. All of the great work and achievements here is down to the staff – I can’t take any
The impressive meat counter
Arun Craig, Outstanding Customer Service Colleague of the Year
Conor McGrath, Fresh Colleague of the Year
THOMASTOWN
credit for it.”
2017 saw “a mini-revamp”, as Michelle calls it, carried out on the store, while last year there was an extension carried out to its Off Licence along with some new doors put on its refrigerators.
Plans are in place for more works to be carried out over the next few years and, with regards to personnel, SuperValu Thomastown has saw numerous internal promotions over the last 12 months.
“Our most recent in the last year would be our Deli Head of Department, a Trainee Manager and then this year we had a Bakery Head of Department, a Produce Head of Department and a Dairy Head of Department. We’re getting there,” stated the Store Manager.
So, all of that considered, the burning question what has been the secret behind the success of this particular store to date?
What is it about SuperValu Thomastown that sets it apart and has its customers choosing it first ahead of the competition?
“To be honest, I think it’s because we are local and well established in this town over 50 years. It’s also down to the fact that we’re actively involved in the community,” Michelle pointed out.
“We do a lot of sponsorship, a lot of donations and help out with many societies. We even have a good relationship with the secondary school and take in all of their transition students for work experience every year.
“We work closely with the GAA club here, the soccer club
and
SUPERVALU THOMASTOWN
Dublin Rd, Cloghabrody, Thomastown, Co Kilkenny (R95 P6CP)
Tel: (056) 772 4175
Facebook: /supervaluthomastown
TINNOCK FARM PRODUCE
Free Range is Quality
Tinnock Farm Produce is well known throughout the South East of Ireland for quality fresh Free Range Eggs.
Tinnock, Campile, New Ross, Co. Wexford Mob: 087 220 3300
have a very strong affiliation with the Kilkenny Helping the Homeless and the St Vincent de Paul as well.” Fantastic to hear.
Glenn Challoner, Bakery Head of Department
Sam Kavanagh, Deli Head of Department
Habib El Meliane, Produce Head of Department
Best Wishes and Continued Success to SuperValu Thomastown
Best Wishes and Continued Success to SuperValu Thomastown
“THIS IS A GENUINE CROSSROADS FOR ALL GROWERS”
John B Dockrell UC has been growing and packing top quality vegetables in Wexford for decades now, and today specialises in the supply of lettuce and carrots to retailers and distributors nationwide. Grocery & Retail Ireland touched base with John himself to hear more about the current state of business for the company and its overall hopes going forward.
Business is tough these days for vegetable growers throughout Ireland and, at John B Dockrell UC, they’ve always viewed recognising the problem as a very positive approach.
Growing crops since 1976, this award-winning company sees its staff numbers fluctuate from 35 up to as many 80 during the busy season.
John Dockrell and his team of experienced staff operate from Monroe, Screen, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, growing both carrots and lettuce and supplying its own carrots for approx. 40 weeks of the year.
Grocery & Retail Ireland caught up with John recently to discuss his thoughts on what he feels is “a genuine crossroads” for all growers in this country right now.
“What concerns me now is the level of stress that’s in vegetable growing. Genuinely, it is very severe,” he outlined.
“Because it has become such a small number of growers, we’re not the best at promoting ourselves. Whether it’s advertising on radio or TV etc, the public don’t really find out about us until somebody just gives up altogether. They don’t really understand what’s happening.
“To me, recognising what your problems are is a very positive approach.”
He added: “We’re in an area where people talk about that there’s a need for vegetables and particularly field vegetables. But it’s connecting that need with the consumer and with the retailer.”
Despite the difficult and different times brought on by
Specialising in the supply of lettuce and carrots to retailers and distributors
rising costs, lack of labour and wet summers to name a few of the issues, John B Dockrell UC.’s methods of constant monitoring of nutrients, reduced chemical inputs and the installation of reedbeds and wetlands 25 years ago are standing the test of time.
Through these three techniques, the company has grown over the decades to become one of most recognised vegetable growers in the southeast. By working to achieve best practice whenever the opportunity arises.
“Our business is based on root crop, as in carrots, and then we do Iceberg & Little Gem lettuce during the summer. That’s proving very difficult because of the change in the climate,” John explained.
“Certain crops don’t grow well in the weather conditions
that we are experiencing now, and Iceberg lettuce, in particular would be one of them. Iceberg lettuce was bred in the 1940s in a lovely climate in California, but it really doesn’t like our climate.
So, what has changed the most for growers over the past couple of years?
Ask a seasoned grower like John and he’ll tell you that it is, of course, down to a combination of different factors. However, when it comes to his business in particular, John sees a couple of challenges which John B Dockrell UC has been made to overcome in the last 24 months or so.
He added: “This is a genuine crossroads for all growers. The pressures on people in terms of their key resources, their land availability, people availability and their financial
John Dockrell and his team of experienced staff operate from Monroe, Screen, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford
ability to invest. All vegetable growers have their markets, but it’s the commitment from those markets that allows you to invest.”
Still one of Wexford’s committed vegetable growers, the company continues to work alongside retail giants such as Tesco, Dunnes Stores, Aldi and Musgrave Group (SuperValu & Centra) to see its produce getting to the consumer at the best value offering.
So, all of that considered, the burning question is what has been the secret behind the success of John B Dockrell UC?
How has this small start-up vegetable grower situated in the southeast stood the test of time throughout the decades in this challenging industry to remain a successful venture?
For John, he points to the values and approach that his company had from the outset, as well as its constant drive ever since to continue delivering the highest quality produce with the support of his loyal staff.
“In the beginning, I would say customers were choosing us because we had developed the business a lot further than most at that stage,” he said.
Supplying its own carrots for approx. 40 weeks of the year
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We were growing carrots in a different way, and we were doing things that other growers were only starting to do such as grading, hydro-cooling and different things like that. Customers wanted a good product, and they came looking.”
Looking at the coming months for the business and towards next year, John says that the word ‘commitment’ comes to mind above all else.
“I think no matter who it is, whether it’s somebody working for you or us working for customers, we need to see commitment in the longer term,” he pointed out.
“That’s because the level that we must commit to, whether it’s capital investment or land or people, you won’t have reduce soil compaction. It is critical that we address climate change now and help deliver a transformation in the environmental impact of food production.
people unless you commit to them and to do that you have to have some sort of confidence. Isn’t that really it?
“For growers to have produce in the future, consumers are going to have to take an intertest in where their fresh produce is grown and how it’s produced. Maybe more so than they’ve been doing up to now, that’s for sure.”
Dockrells, & indeed all Growers, need to farm in a responsible manner and work to improve our soils and to ensure land availability to grow crops in the coming years.
We propose to address this, with support from all our customers, by:
Maintaining and increasing crop rotations - longer periods between growing crops. Sowing cover crops during these rest periods.
Changing our harvesting methods to
That transformation MUST start with the soil we farm.
Wishes and Continued Success to John B Dockrell UC
PROVIDING WHOLESOME QUALITY FRUIT FOR OVER 60 YEARS
Established since 1960, Clarke’s Fresh Fruit is synonymous with excellence in fruit growing.
Grocery & Retail Ireland spoke with one half of the company’s directorship in Mary Clarke to learn more about the successful business which her and husband Pat have nurtured and watched grow over the past six decades.
When Meath man Pat Clarke set-up his fruit growing business back 64 years ago, he did so with the intention of one day owning and running a company that would be renowned for the quality of its produce.
Today, Clarke’s Fresh Fruit stands as a business with 180 employees which works tirelessly to grow the most wholesome and flavoursome Irish fresh fruit sustainably. Pat and his experienced team produce 80 acres of
strawberries, raspberries and blackberries from May to November at the company’s farm in Clintstown, Stamullen, Co Meath.
Grocery & Retail Ireland touched base with Mary Clarke recently to hear all about Clarke’s Fresh Fruit – from its origins to the state of business today.
“The business grew from small beginnings. In the early 60s in this area, nearly every household had a small fruit garden to supplement the income,” she outlined.
Clarke’s Fresh Fruit stands as a business with 180 employees
“So, Pat grew up surrounded by strawberries and, at the age of 12, he was picking fruit for the neighbours. When he was 14, a local lady gave him a present of plants and he had enough for 10 drills. As he says himself, 30 feet long at the time and he made very good money on them and then he became interested, and it was what motivated him in the very early stages.
“He progressed on to an acre in 1964 and there were 5,000 plants on that one acre that year – all in the ground
using traditional methods for planting and picking. I suppose, what’s significant today is that the same acre is called ‘Plot 1’ now and takes 30,000 plants.”
She continued: “Today, we have 80 acres and specialise mostly in strawberries. Fresh Irish quality strawberries is what we’re about and then the other 20% would be raspberries and blackberries.
“Everything today is grown in scientifically designed ’cosy’ tunnels, and the growing methods today are very modern
Pat Clarke set-up his fruit growing business back 64 years ago
Producing 80 acres of strawberries, raspberries and blackberries
with mechanised systems, computer-controlled fertigation and irrigation and everything is a tabletop system. So, the employees are standing when they’re picking or planting the fruit.”
While husband-and-wife Pat and Mary have been running the operation together as Co-Directors for what seems a lifetime now, this year has seen the next generation of Clarkes coming into the business.
Their son Alan, who is a qualified Mechanical Engineer, has changed careers to join the team in Clinstown on a fulltime basis and is set to bring a lot of valuable experience to his family’s company.
Alan has come in during a time when business is in a fantastic place for Clarke’s Fresh Fruit and the plan, obviously, is to try and keep things that way as it nears closer towards the 65-year mark.
“Business is very good. We invest heavily in our staff here and Pat always has researched globally from a young age. He is very passionate about what he does,” said Mary.
“The staff are highly valued and that has paid off because we have people that come from Romania for many years and they’re highly experienced now.
“We have staff from Poland and, this year, we had some people from China and Ukraine. Our core staff are from the surrounding area.”
As Mary herself puts it, Clarke’s Fresh Fruit supplies its produce to “the multiples” across the country, with Dunnes Stores being one of those.
The company has been with Dunnes Stores for over 40 years now and the Clarkes were honoured last year to see its King Berries being chosen for Dunnes ‘Simply Better’ range.
So, all of that considered, the burning question is what has been the secret behind the continued success of Clarke’s Fresh Fruit after all these years?
How has a small start-up grown and developed into a business that is renowned for its excellence in fruit growing, currently employing 180 staff and winning multiple awards along the way.
For Mary, so much of it comes down to the original objectives that Pat set out in 1960 and continues to see them through to this day.
“It’s attention to detail and dedication really. Our goal is to grow the most wholesome and flavoursome fresh Irish fruit sustainably – that’s really what we’re about,” she said.
“We are members of the Bord Bia Origin Green initiative and we have the Bord Bia Quality Assured badge of honour. They don’t come easy because there are strict audits and high standards to adhere to.
“On a daily basis, we’re all the time striving for excellence and so are our team, and we have the experience now in the team built up over the years.”
Along the way, Clarke’s Fresh Fruit has always endeavoured to support all local fundraising events, schools and sports clubs, while each year also sees us choosing a charity to donate to. This year the support is going to help the people of Ukraine.
Looking at the coming months for the company, Mary says they’ll be as eager as ever in Clinstown to maintain the high standards which sees them delivering the best produce day in, day out.
“The hopes for the business would be to maintain the quality and build on continuous progress.
“We want to keep up with modern initiatives as well. Every season brings new challenges and we want to just drive on and maintain what we have and build on it.
“The attention to detail, the monitoring and the training of staff are the factors that are key to us, along with loyalty to the suppliers and customers,” she concluded.
Fantastic to hear.
CLARKE’S FRESH FRUIT
Clinstown, Stamullen, Co Meath (K32 XA37)
Tel: +353 1 841 6613 / +353 1 841 3262
Email: info@clarkesfreshfruit.ie
Web: clarkesfreshfruit.ie
Synonymous with excellence in fruit growing
Growing the most wholesome and flavoursome Irish fresh fruit sustainably
Best Wishes and Continued Success to Clarke’s Fresh Fruit
Best Wishes and Continued Success to Clarke’s Fresh Fruit
A NEW LEASE OF LIFE FOR LONDIS CASTLEBRIDGE
The well-appointed Londis supermarket in Castlebridge, County Wexford has undergone an extensive transformation and refurbishment which futureproofs its status as the quintessential community convenience store. We headed for the Model County and interrupted store manager Deirdre Carty’s busy schedule to find out more.
Located on the outskirts of Wexford town, Londis Castlebridge officially unveiled its magnificent new look to the public over June Bank Holiday weekend, 2024.
This thriving convenience store, which has undergone a complete top-to-bottom transformation and refurbishment, is managed by Deirdre Carty, who points out that the reimagining and modernisation of the store places them in the strongest possible position to continue providing customers with the best-possible levels of service.
The revamp sees the new-look store almost double in size, to 8,761 square feet, making it one of Ireland’s largest Londis outlets space-wise.
Londis Castlebridge has been furnished to the highest spec with tremendous sustainability measures such as the roof,
which is now packed with solar panels to generate power and help offset the store’s carbon footprint. The upgraded store also boasts a whole section of Irish only products and has an extensive grocery offering to satisfy all shoppers’ needs, including a full off-licence, Smooch Ice Cream offering and delicious pizzas (to-go or cooked onsite) as well as freshly baked breads and pastries.
“We are delighted with the new look, feel and flow to Londis Castlebridge. We are very proud to be serving the needs of the local community and the response to the new store has been overwhelmingly positive,” Deirdre comments.
Reflecting on the substantial construction project that culminated in the transformation of Londis Castlebridge, the amiable store manager continues: “The building work was carried out over eight months in 2023. The new store opened
in December, 2023 and we had our official launch on June Bank Holiday weekend this year.
“We were very lucky in that the build was carried out over three different phases which allowed us to work around it. The extension was done first and as each phase was taking place, we moved around. The builders facilitated us in any way they could and the store was able to remain open throughout. It went very smoothly with minimal disruption, and that was down to the excellence of the main contractor, GJM Contracts, who handled it brilliantly and did a fantastic job from start to finish.”
A true convenience store in every sense of the term, Londis Castlebridge nestles at the very heart of the community it has served for decades. As well as offering a great retail experience, the store is part of the fabric of the local
community.
“People don’t just come in here to shop,” says Deirdre. “They come in for a catch-up and we are very proud of that personal connection we have with all of our customers. We provide them with a friendly and welcoming experience and we have a very good mix of customers, from small kids through to the older generation.
“Looking after them all is key and that’s what we intend to keep doing. The new store provides us with a perfect platform to make sure they all have the best possible customer experience.”
What is key to delivering the optimal customer experience – quality, value, convenience, service? “I think it’s a combination of all of these things. You have to have quality goods but they also have to be at the right price and service
Stocking quality local produce
Officially unveiled its magnificent new look to the public over June Bank Holiday weekend
is vital. You have to make sure you have a team who all know what’s going on, friendly and knowledgeable staff with good local knowledge and who know the customers.”
Having an exceptional team around her is a great help to the store manager and she says she’d be lost without the brilliant staff at Londis Castlebridge: “We have a great team and it’s a good mix of the young crew coming through and the core team members who are vastly experienced and have been here a long time. Jackie here beside me, for example, has been here 30 years and she is the anchor of the store.”
The revamp of Londis Castlebridge has effectively delivered a brand spanking new store on the site of the old one. “Everything is new now,” Deirdre enthuses. “Apart from a few walls that were reworked, everything else in the store is new – from the floors up to the roof, with solar panels for sustainable energy generation. We have brandnew refrigeration and energy-efficient lighting throughout the store, new deli equipment, there is nothing old left in the
We have a strong local ethos and support local suppliers as much as we possibly can. At the end of the day, we are all local people working in the local area and supporting local businesses is something we strive towards as well as contributing to the local community
Londis supermarket in Castlebridge has undergone an extensive transformation and refurbishment
store. It’s unrecognisable from what was here before.”
Comprising a fresh store and fuel forecourt, with deli counter, bakery and fresh food on the go, Londis Castlebridge also boast one of the biggest and best off licence offerings of any Londis store, while the dedicated artisan area for local produce sourced from Wexford and other parts of Ireland is one of the many jewels in the crown. Deirdre believes supporting local suppliers is extremely important:
“We have a strong local ethos and support local suppliers as much as we possibly can. At the end of the day, we are all local people working in the local area and supporting local businesses is something we strive towards as well as contributing to the local community.”
The feedback to the newly-revamped store has understandably been universally positive. “It’s been great,” Deirdre confirms. “The original store that was here was built 60 years ago and even though there were many changes
and improvements over the years, it was old and tired and crumbling at the seams, so it’s a breath of fresh air to see it today. We’re a bridge away from Wexford town and it’s the only store in the area - a supermarket now and the upgrade has been very well received.
“This is it now,” the delighted store manager concludes. “We’re in our first year of trading since the new store was built and we’re very happy with it at the minute. We’ll continue to look at what our customers need, and meet those needs, and put our best foot forward.”
LONDIS CASTLEBRIDGE,
Castlebridge, County Wexford.
Tel: 053 9159958
Email: manager@castlebridgestore.com
Facebook: /londiscastlebridge
Providing customers with the best-possible levels of service
A quintessential community convenience store
CASTLE FREE RANGE EGGS – FOR THE BEST FRESH PRODUCE
Based in Ballyshannon, Co Donegal, Castle Free Range Eggs is a Bord Bia approved free range egg producer and packer which supplies to the domestic, commercial and catering trades.
Grocery & Retail Ireland spoke with Edel Carty (Quality Management) to hear all about the current state of business for the company and its plans for further expansion.
Castle Free Range Eggs is coming up on 40 years in business and today stands as one of Ireland’s leading producers of free-range eggs. Set-up by Hugh John Patton and his wife Mary, the two are joined in the business by their daughters Sinead, Amanda, Edel and sons Hugh John Jnr, Brendan and Michael.
Hugh John snr and Brendan manage the family business which is situated in Wardtown Castle, Ballyshannon, Co Donegal, where there are three houses in operation and nearly 30,000 hens inside of them.
Grocery & Retail Ireland touched base with Edel Carty recently to discuss the ins and outs of the company and what she feels separates it from the competition.
“The egg company itself would’ve been established nearly 40 years ago,” she outlined.
“We’re all involved in the business, so there’s myself and then my brother Brendan and dad Hugh John manage the company.
“As a family, we all are involved one way or another, so there’s six kids in total (three boys and three girls). My sister Sinead is a veterinary nurse, so she helps out with the welfare, my brother Michael helps out with the maintaining of the units of the sheds, Hugh John jnr would be there to help out with the machinery maintenance.”
The origins of Castle Free Range Eggs date back to the mid-1980s in a time where Edel’s mother Mary seized an exciting opportunity for both her and her family.
Mary and her husband Hugh John would start off with just 50 hens and, as the demand grew bigger, so did their company. “Mom had a few backyard hens and she used to bring them into the local store just to sell them. She only had maybe a dozen hens and she realised that there was a
One of Ireland’s leading producers of free-range eggs
The future of the business is in safe hands with the next generation taking a keen interest
market because people were actually fighting over the eggs in the shop,” Edel explained.
“So, she realised there was a need for it and her and my dad invested in their first shed which was 1,000 hens at the time. They built it up from there over the years and worked incredibly hard at it, and it was really them that pushed it when they were younger.
“We’re kind of unique in a way that we’re a family farm here and we sell direct to the store. We produce and pack all our own eggs and we bring it direct to store. We’re not selling
to a distribution company where it takes a few weeks to be processed. It’s literally the same day of lay that the eggs can be in the store and sometimes this is the case for the busy summer season.
“We produce and pack all our own and supply a number of stores, restaurants and B&Bs, so we do SuperValu and Centra and a lot of stores like that as well. We’ve got great support in our local area and, at the moment, we’re nearly 30,000 hens and are fully Bord Bia approved for a number of years.”
Castle Free Range Eggs is a real family affair
Today, Castle Free Range Eggs has three operational bird houses catering for their ever-expanding customer base that includes retailers such as Tesco, SuperValu, Centra, Spar and Mace, as well as hotels and restaurants throughout Donegal and surrounding areas including Sligo and Leitrim.
Business is thriving for the company at present and the team in Wardtown Castle intend to keep it that way for the foreseeable.
“Business has been very good,” Edel said of the last 12 months. “We’re in a very lucky position that, with us supplying direct to the customer, there’s a great relationship there.
“I feel that we have very loyal customers and they always come back to us. So, our business has been busier than ever but it obviously has been difficult with the rise in cost of feed and electricity has had an impact. Packaging and everything has increased as well, but, no, it’s been going well.”
So, all of that considered, the clear question is what has been the secret behind the success of Castle Free Range Eggs to date?
How has a small start with just a couple of dozen hens grown into what is now one of the country’s leading producers of free-range eggs?
For Edel, a lot of it comes down to the high-quality standards that her parents set from the beginning being continuously delivered year after year.
“I think the reason they (customers) choose us is because we have a good reputation with our customers. It’s always top quality and what you receive is of a very high standard,” she stated.
“We take great pride in our product and they know what they’re getting is fresh and they know exactly where it’s come from. We produce and pack all our own eggs, so it leaves us in that unique position where literally if they want to see where they’re produced, they can see it for themselves. We’ve built up a reputation over the years of having a good customer base.”
Producing such a high-quality product takes expertise and, of course, the right personnel and equipment to see it through week in, week out.
Wishes and Continued Success to Castle Free Range Eggs
Wishes and Continued Success to Castle Free Range Eggs
To that end, it’s no surprise to hear that in the past year the Pattons have invested big in a state-of-the-art egg grader to ensure that the products with the ‘Castle Free Range Eggs’ logo on them remain the best out there.
“We’re always trying to expand. We’re always pushing ourselves to expand further every year,” Edel stated.
“As I say, we have a number of other businesses running alongside the farm, so we’re constantly trying to grow and diversify the farm.
take great pride in our
“Last year, we bought a new egg grader for the packing centre which was close to €500,000, so we’re always trying to push forward and increase while keeping the same level of quality. We have plans to increase more over the coming years.”
She concluded: “We have kind of decided to try and expand and maybe put in another unit over the next 12 months and, hopefully, just go from there and see how things go.”
SuperValu awarded the Food & Drink eCommerce Website of the Year
The SuperValu online shopping platform has been awarded the Food & Drink eCommerce Website of the Year at the Irish eCommerce Awards, held in Dublin recently.
The Irish eCommerce Awards is the premier celebration of the internet retail industry on the island of Ireland. It recognises and rewards organisations, teams, and individuals who are shaping the thriving internet retail industry. Winners are selected by a panel of industry-leading experts, evaluated based on the merits of their presented work.
This award win is the result of the hard work and dedication
of the Digital, Ecommerce, Product, UX, and IT teams, who have diligently progressed through the re-platform over the past several years. Key features of the website and app, such as My Usuals, integration of Real Rewards vouchers, shoppable recipes, and early slot selection, played a significant role in this success.
The website and app were praised for their industry-leading approach in integrating online and offline channels to enhance the customer’s shopping experience, with notable mentions for the customer-centric design driving both retention and satisfaction.
