FoodCloud has recentlyannounced a successful first yearoftheAIB FoodCloud CommunityMealsProgramme,aninitiative thatistransformingsurplus foodintofreshly preparedmeals for communityandcharity groupsinIreland.
Resultsshowthatthisinnovative programmehasdeliveredanimpactwith over5,000 ready-to-eatmealsserved directly to peoplethrough FoodCloud’s networkof communitypartners.
Thegroup,whoseshareofBritain’sgrocery markethasgrownthis year to 28%,alevel notseensince2016,said todayitsUKlikefor-likesales rose 5.1%inthe13 weeks to May 24, havingbeenup 4.3%inthe previousquarter.
InIreland,its like-for-likesales rose5.5%inthe13 weeks to May 24.
Coca-Cola HBC Irelandand NorthernIreland has recently announcedthe RoyalNational Lifeboat Institution(RNLI) asitsofficial charitypartneruntilDecember2027. The 24-hoursearchand rescueservice relieson volunteersanddonations to fund theirlifesavingactivities.
Lidlshinesalighton Ireland’shidden
AheadofNationalCarers Week,LidlIreland isshiningalightonIreland’shiddenfrontline ofmorethan500,000+ familycarerswith thelaunchofits“WeCareBack”campaign, supportingthosewhoprovidevital,unpaid care to lovedones everydayaspartofits charitypartnershipwith FamilyCarers Ireland(FCI).
Research commissioned by LidlinMay 2025highlightstheemotional contradiction at theheartof familycaring.
Tescopizzasupplier, Crust&Crumb,is to doublethesizeofitsproduction facilityin Co Cavan,creating120newjobsallowingit to grow to supportits continuedbusiness expansionwiththe retailer.
Thenew €12.5mproduction facilityin Ballyconnellwillincreasethesitecapacity from40,000 to 80,000sq. footandwill allowit to diversifyand expandits rangeof products to include five newpremiumpizza varietiesithas recentlycreated for Tesco.
The IrishWhiskey Association recently participatedin a TradeMission to Japanorganised by DG Agriculture oftheEuropean Commission, visiting Tokyoand Osaka.Japanhasbeenidentifiedasamarket ofinterest forIrishagri-food exports,and Irish Whiskey hasseen considerablesuccess herein recent years. ■
FoundedinScotlandin1875, AG Barrhas grownintoaFTSE250-listed companywith a turnoverof over £420million(€500m), operatingacross40globalmarketsand employingnearly1,000people at sevenUK locations. WithanewCEOjoininginJuly2024
andanew COOinJanuary2025,the companyis wellpositioned for continuedgrowth. Despiteindustry-widepressures,A.GBarr reported record turnover forthe yearending January2025-up5.1% year-on-year-driven by strongbrandperformance, innovation,and internationalgrowth.
CentraannouncesnewpartnershipwithHurling forCancer Research
Centra,Ireland convenience retailer,has recently announceditsnewpartnershipwithHurling forCancer Research, to raisevitalfunds fortheIrishCancerSociety. This year’s instalmentofthehugelypopularannual Hurling exhibitiongameisset to takeplaceMonday18 August,inNetwatchCullen Park,Carlow at 7.30pm. Allproceeds raisedfromthe eventwillsupporttheIrish CancerSocietyandthelife-saving researchtheydo.
Launchedin2012, by JimBolgerandDavy Russell, Hurling forCancer Researchisanannualfundraiser gatheringanarray ofincrediblesportspeople,pastand present,and celebrities to raisemoney fortheIrishCancer Society’scancer research work.
TheIrishCancerSocietyisthelargestcharityinvestorin cancer researchinIreland,investingaround€4million each yearacrossawide rangeofcancer researchprojects. Sinceitsinception,Hurling forCancer Researchhas raisedalmost €1.7 million,makinganincredible contribution to theIrishCancerSociety’s overallcancer researchinvestment.
Flogaslaunchesnew‘The Gas Part’campaigninpartnership withEmerald Park
AsEmerald Park’sofficialSustainableEnergy Partner, Flogas is‘proud’ to helppower everythingfromfunridesand attractions to rollercoastersbig andsmallwithenergy,including renewablesourcessuchassolarand electric vehiclecarcharging.
Theinvestmentinsolarpanelsis expected to save Emerald Park over €30,000annuallyinenergy costs.
Thecampaignalsobringsan excitingoffer forIrishhouseholdswhereby residential customersgettwoFreetickets to Emerald Parkwhenthey renewwithFlogasor switch to FlogasonFlogas.ie.
Created by PublicisDublin,thisnewcampaign continuesthehumorous, familyfriendly toneoftheoriginalTVadwhileshiningaspotlightonthe Emerald Parkpartnership.
It rollsoutacrossTV, radio,outdoor,digital,socialmedia,andPR, reinforcingthatFlogaspowersalotmorethanjustgas,providing electricity,solarandEVchargingalongwithpoweringIreland’smost famousthrill attractions at Emerald Park.
GavanMorris,internationalbusinessdirector, AGBarr
Gala Retailand VirginMedia
TelevisioncrownBestBakerwinners
The veryfirst Gala Retail and VirginMedia TelevisionBestBaker competitionhasofficiallycrowned itswinners,withtalentedhomebakersfromacrossthe country recognised fortheirbakingskills.
Launched to shineaspotlightonIreland’svibranthomebakingscene,thenationwide competition waslaunched by Gala Retailinpartnershipwith VirginMedia Television.
Open to amateurbakersofallages,theinitiativedrew hundredsofentriesfromacrossthe country, culminatinginahotly-contestedgrandbake-offfinal at AirfieldEstate,Dundrum. TakinghomethetitleofIreland’sBestBakerwith Gala Retail wasMaryBuckleyfromRathcoole, Co Cork,and16-year-old LeahMallinsonfromNewbridge, Co.Kildarepickingupthetitle forBest JuniorBaker.
GuaranteedIrish has recentlyannouncedthe returnofGuaranteedIrish Food&DrinkMonththisJune2025,spotlightingthe contributionof homegrown foodanddrinkbusinesses to theIrisheconomy.
GuaranteedIrishbusinesses contributealmost€60million to social initiatives every yearincludingsponsorshipoflocalsportsclubs,support to localcharitiesandparticipatinginsustainabilityinitiatives.
Sponsored by SuperValu,this year’s campaignwillseethelaunchofthe GuaranteedIrish&SuperValuMediaBursary,a€50,000funddesigned to boostthemediapresenceofa standoutGuaranteedIrish foodordrink member.
This€50,000bursarywillallowaGuaranteedIrishmember to advertise theirproductinSuperValu storesonin-store digital,andtillscreensas well asother communicationsmediums.
Open to allGuaranteedIrishmembersinthe food&drinksector, applicantsareinvited to submituser-generated content(UGC)inthe form ofapostor reelonInstagramor TikTok,showcasinghowtheGuaranteed Irish symbol(‘G’)helpsthemwinbusiness.
Builtondecadesof experienceand strong relationshipswithlocal suppliers,thecampaignhighlightsSuperValu’s commitment to deliveringpremiumproduce, meat,bakeryitems,andwines.
Central to thecampaignaretwonew foodbrandambassadors: award-winningchef GarethMullinsandbestsellinghome cookSarah Butler
Mullinsbrings over20 yearsoffive-star culinary experience, while Butler,known forher warm, family-focused recipes, representsthecare andcreativity at theheartofSuperValu’sbrand.
Thecampaignisdriven by anewadvertfromBoys +Girls,directed by SimonRatiganand voiced by StefaniePreissner, focusingon authenticity by using realSuperValu staffandsuppliers.
Theannual Awardspromote excellencein stationand store standards, customer experience, and communityengagement–and standardsare stringentlyassessed every yearbeforeMaxol rewardsbothits company-ownedandindependentdealerownedservice stations.
Winnersareselected followinga combinationofaudits by regionalmanagersand the teamfromheadoffice, mysteryshoppervisits,and reviews ofeach store’slocal communityengagement,includingfundraisingactivities forMaxol’snominated charity,IrishGuideDogs fortheBlind.
BrianDonaldson,CEOoftheMaxolGroup,said: “AtMaxol, we prideourselves at being at theheartofour communitiesandasIreland’sleading family-owned forecourt retailer,providingabest-in-class experienceisoftheutmostimportance.”
Company-ownedwinners:
• Storeofthe Year –MaxolClonakilty, Cork,operated by Licensee ShaneCantillon
• Excellencein Standards –Maxol,Riverside,Navan,operated by Licensee Paul Sweeney
• ExcellenceinCustomerExperience –MaxolClonakilty, Cork,operated by LicenseeShaneCantillon
• Excellencein CommunityEngagement –MaxolClonakilty, Cork,operated by LicenseeShaneCantillon
IndependentDealerwinners:
• Storeofthe Year – Garvey’s Newcastlewest,Limerick,operated by Jim Garvey
• Excellencein Standards –McGonigle’s,Muff,Donegal,operated by Joe&Marie McGonigle
• ExcellenceinCustomerExperience –Moloney’s,Abbeyfeale,Limerick,operated by DanMoloney
• Excellencein CommunityEngagement –EiversKilkenny, operated by JohnEivers
County Cork’sBallyhassNationalSchool has recentlybeencrowned ‘Ireland’sFittestSchool2025’.
Followingitsparticipationinathree-month competition,inwhich hundredsofschoolsfromall overIreland,northandsouth, tookpart, BallyhassNationalSchool wenton to winthelive ‘grandfinal’inwhich the topschoolfromeachofthe Connacht, Leinster, MunsterandUlster provincialfinals featured.
Thegrandfinal,which tookplace at the AthloneInternationalArena, washosted by oneofIreland’sbest-knownOlympians–sprinterDavid Gillick–andsawthe fourschools contest foraprizepackagewhich included€8,000 worthofsportsequipment.
Supported by Irishfruitimporter Fyffesandtrackedonline,the purposeofthe competition,launchedlastDecemberandnowinits fourth year, was to promotetheimportanceof exercise,fitnessand healthyeatingamongst youngpeople.
A central featureoftheprogramme wasaseriesof exercise routines which competingschools couldadoptaspartoftheirPE curriculum andagainstwhichperformance couldbemeasured.
Previous competitionwinners were Donegal’sScoilNaCroiseNaofa, Dunfanaghy(2022),Meath’sGilsonNationalSchool,Oldcastle(2023) and County Waterford’s St.Mary’s TouraneenaNationalSchool(2024).
Theultimate summersizzler adventurewith Centra
Travelandadventurecreator TadhgO’Brienhas teamedupwith Centra to sharehis Top12SummerSizzler Stops to prove thatnoIrish road tripis completewithoutascenicviewanda stopin Centraalongthe way Centra’sSummerSizzlerdealsoffersensational valueontheir summereatingmust-haves,helping to turnlittlemomentsintobig memories.
O’Brienhitthe roadearlierthismonthaheadoftheJuneBank Holiday startingoff at thewild covesofSpiddalandon to the beachfrontbuzzof Tramore.
Other stopoffpointsthissummerinclude Centra storeslocatedin iconicspotssuchasDingle,Enniscrone,KinsaleandSalthill.
Speakingaboutthepartnership,O’Brien,said:“There’snothinglikean Irishsummer,wild swims,impromptu roadtrips,andof course,a Centra stop to stockuponalltheessentials to enjoy at thatperfectlocation. “I’mbuzzing to hitthe roadwith Centraandshowoffsomeofthemost unrealspotsaroundthe country.”
Centrahasalso teamedupwithJenniferZamparelliandDoireann Garrihy to turnuptheheatontheirSummerSizzlerofferssuchas:
• 3 for ¤10mix&matchonBBQmeats –suchassausages,burgers, chickenwings
• Two for¤5.50mix&matchonsummerberries
• Mix&match2 for¤6onicelollies
To celebrate,Centraisgiving away theultimate sizzlingsummerprize ofa TentBox,theperfectupgrade for yournextadventure. Justpop intooneofthe12iconic Centra stores, strikeapose at theSummer Sizzlersphoto stand,andtag@centra_irl to enter Keepan eyeon@centra_irlallsummer to follow Tadhg’stravelsand discoverthebestpitstopsnationwide. Visit centra.ie/summersizzlers to findparticipating storesand startplanning yournextadventure.
Irishprofessionalgolfer Conor Purcell joinedDeirdre Lowry,seniorbrandmanager, YoplaitIreland to announcedetailsofanewthree-yearpartnership. The partnershipwillmake YoplaitSKYRtheofficial YogurtoftheAMGENIrishOpen eventwhichtakesplacethis yearfrom4-7September at TheKClub, Straffan, Co. Kildare, Ireland.
Asanofficialsponsor to theAMGENIrishOpen, YoplaitSKYRwillenjoyhigh visibilityacrossabroad rangeofassociatedmulti-mediainaddition to strong brand exposureopportunitiesacrossthe courseofthe eventinSeptember.
YoplaitSKYRisa100%natural,highinproteinand fatfreesource ofquality dairywhichprovidesasignificantpercentageof yourdailynutritional requirements.Itshighprotein, zero fatqualitiesmakeittheperfectbreakfast choice. YoplaitSKYRwillhostaseriesofpremiumsamplingactivitieswhere complimentarySKYRbreakfastbowlswillbe available to AMGENIrishOpen attendeesthroughoutthedurationofthe event.
Speakingonbehalfof YoplaitSKYR, Lowry,said:GenerationsofIrish Athletes have grownupenjoyingthebenefitsof Yoplaitduringthelast50 yearsand we look forward to seeingmanyofIreland’sandthe world’s favouritegolfers competing at theprestigiousAMGENIrishOpen at theKClubinSeptemberand beyond.”
PaulGillmon,theDP World Tour’s ChampionshipDirectoroftheAmgenIrish Open,said:“Wearedelighted to welcome YoplaitSKYR to theAmgenIrishOpen familyaheadofthis year’sevent.
“TheAmgenIrishOpenisnotjustagolf tournament,butan event forallthe familyandhavingabrandsuchas Yoplaitonboardadds to thefull experienceof whatwillbeanunforgettablevisit to TheKClub.”
Learnhowtomakeyour QRcodesgobeepatthetill
QRcodespoweredbyGS1
2Dbarcodes,suchastheGS1DataMatrixand QR Code,have achievedwidespreadadoption. TheGS1DataMatrixbarcodeisalreadywidely usedinthehealthcaresectoracrosspharma andmedicaldevices,whilethenow familiarQR Codeisincreasinglybeingadopted for consumerengagementand retailapplications.
Brandmarketing teamshave embracedthe QR Codeasa tool toconnect consumers to onlineinformation,leveragingtheabilityofthe camerasonsmartdevices,suchasmobile phones, to instantly recognise webaddresses inthebarcode
Theglobal retailindustry-including retailers, suppliers,brands,manufacturers,andsolution providers-hasagreedthatGS1DataMatrix, DataMatrixwiththeGS1DigitalLink syntax, andQR CodewiththeGS1DigitalLinkURI syntax,willbethethree2Dbarcodesused at retailpoint-of-sale(POS).Preparationsare nowunderway aheadofthe readinesstarget date ofend2027 –aprojectknownas “Ambition2027”.
Ambition2027 –theglobal goal to get retail ready fortwodimensional(2D)barcodes
Industryhassetagoalthat, by theendof 2027,all retailPOS systemsshouldbecapable of readingandprocessingadefinedsetof2D barcodeswithGS1 standards,inaddition to existinglinearbarcodes.
Hereisa roundupofbestpractices to observewhencreatingandprinting yourQR codes for retailpoint-of-salescanning.
QR codeswithBarcode Numbers (GTINs)–the content structureneeds toconform to theGS1DigitalLink standard
Thefirstdistinguishing featurebetween a standardmarketingQR codeanda“QR code powered by GS1” for retailpoint-of-sale scanningisthedefined structureofthelink thatit contains. Thedata stringintheQR code must,asaminimum, containadomain,the applicationidentifier(AI) 01 to definethe productbarcodenumber,andthentheGlobal TradeItemNumber (GTIN)itself.Depending upon yourproduct youmayalsochoose to includeadditionalproductiondatasuchas a BestBeforeDate orSerialNumber, for example
To ensure fast andefficientbarcode readability acrossthesupplychainand at thepoint-ofsale(POS),barcode customisationorthe additionoflogos, shouldbe avoided Thisis particularlycrucial for 2Dbarcodes at pointof-sale where speed and accuracy areessential.
Customised2Dbarcodeshave artistic modificationsorhave beenvisuallyenhanced to alignwithabrandordesign style. Logosor shapesthatobscuretheencodeddatawithin a 2Dbarcode,alongwithalterations to the matrixcan compromisebarcodequality potentiallydisruptingproductscanningand POSoperations. Whilethese customisedQR Codesmay remainscannablewithsmart devices,theycanposechallengesinthe retail ecosystem,wherehigh-speedidentification anddecodingareessential.
Ensurehighprintquality
Mostproducts today featureanEAN/UPC barcodeso familiarthat we barelynoticeituntilascanner fails to readit correctly at the point-of-sale(POS).Maintainingthesamelevel ofefficientscanning at thePOSwith2D barcodesiscrucial to preserve retailefficiency, productivityandtrustinthePOSprocess.
Packagingdesignersmustprioritisebarcode qualityduringthedesignandpackaging stages,whileprintsolutionprovidersneed to carefullyselecttheappropriate printing technology to achieve optimal results. The minimumqualityspecification fora2Dbarcode isan overall symbolqualitygradeof1.5
PrintQR codes at therightsize
The X-dimensionisthesizeofanindividual squareina2Dbarcode. The X-dimensionis a criticalparameterinensuringthatbarcodes arebothprintableandscannable.Smaller X dimensionsproducemore compactbarcodes, whilelarger X-dimensions resultinbigger symbols.
TheQuiet Zoneistheemptyspacethat surroundsall foursidesofa2Dbarcode. This spacehelpsbarcodescannerslocate the barcode’sfinderpatternandbegin to process
theinformationinit. RemovingtheQuiet Zone orputtinggraphics, coloursorotherprinted elementsintheQuiet Zonecan reduce barcode readingperformance.
Selecttheright coloursand contrast
Thechoiceof colourssignificantlyaffectsthe abilityofPOSscannersand verifiers to decodethebarcode.
Theilluminating colour(fromthescanneror camera)determinesthe contrast betweenthe darkandlightelementsandplays acrucial role inenablingthescanningdevice to distinguish andaccurately readthe2Dbarcode. Blackandwhiteprovidethebest contrast. Red shouldbe avoided. Whilesomescannerscan decodebarcodeswith weak contrast,itis recommended to use verydark colours forthe matrixsquaresand verylight colours forthe background to ensureoptimal readability
To learnmore, scantheQR code to download a copy oftheGS1. ■
Mediationisincreasingly recognisedasaproactive effectivemethod for resolving workplacedisputes,writes
Caroline Reidy
Conflict is a natural part of working life It can arise from miscommunication, clashing personalities or differing expectations. Often, it’s not the big disputes that cause the most damage, but the everyday tensions. If conflict is unaddressed, what may have once been minor issues can escalate, impacting morale and productivity.
Mediation is increasingly recognised as a proactive effective method for resolving workplace disputes
Whatis workplacemediation?
Mediation doesn’tseek to establish right or wrong but rather focuses on mutual understanding and collaborative problem-solving.
A neutral mediator facilitates the conversation, guiding the parties to express their perspectives, explore underlying interests, and identify mutually agreeablesolutions.The Mediator does not offer solutions, instead, the process empowers parties to take ownership ofthe resolution, which leads to more sustainable outcomes.
The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC)’s Code of Practice on the Prevention and Resolution of Bullyingat Work (2020) promotes the value of mediation at any stage in a procedure, but it is particularly beneficial at the earliest possible stage, where appropriate, and it highlights the importance of using suitably qualified Mediators.
Thebusinesscase formediation
Workplace conflicts can be costly - both financially and culturally
A UK study estimated that conflict cost organisations over £28 billion annually Beyond lost productivity, unresolved conflict can lead to absenteeism, presenteeism, attrition,damageto company culture, and legal disputes.
Mediation addresses these issues at the root. By resolving disputes early and informally, mediation can help organisations to:
• Repair orpreserveworking relationships before issues spiral
• Reducecosts andsave time: Early intervention and informal resolution can avoid the need for formal investigations, and can positively impact productivity.
• Lower attrition: Employees who feel heard and supported are more likely to stay engaged and committed.
When to
usemediation
Mediation is most effective when used early- before conflicts escalateto formal grievances or impact team performance. Common
CAROLINEREIDY
Managingdirector
TheHRSuite
If youareanorganisation basedinthe Republicof Irelandand requirefurther informationoradvice relating to HR,pleasedonothesitate tocontact TheHRSuite’s officeon(066)7102887or email info@thehrsuite.com
workplacescenarios where mediation can be an ideal approach include interpersonal issues such as different working styles, personality clashes, communication issues, conflict over roles, responsibly or workload, bullying and harassment or tensions arising fromorganisational change.
However, mediation may not be appropriate in all cases.
Mediation may not be suitable in situations involvingserious misconduct or wherea decision about right or wrong is needed which may require formal investigation, where an individual is experiencing mental health problems, or hasa disability that may be an obstacle in a joint meeting, or where it is clear that the parties do not have the remit to settlethe issue themselves.
Themediationprocess
While each organisation may tailor the process according to their own policies, workplace mediation typically follows a structured format:
1.Initial assessment: Usually initiated by HR or management to understand the situation and assess if mediation is appropriate.
2.Pre-mediation: An independent mediator is engaged who will meet privately with each party to explain the process, build trust, andset ground rules.
3.The mediator joint mediationsession: A confidential discussion, facilitated by the mediator which brings the parties together to share perspectives, identify issues, andexplore potentialsolutions.
4.Resolution andagreement: If a resolution is reached, and agreements are made, they may be documented in a written agreement or agreed verbally.
5.Follow-up: Depending on the situation, follow-up meetings may be scheduled to ensure agreements are upheld. Confidentiality is fundamental.This ensures that participants
have phycologicalsafety and can speak freely without fear of reprisal or having their words used against them later. Most importantly, participation is voluntary- no one can be compelled to mediate, and any party can withdraw at anytime.
Buildingacultureofmediation
Mediation shouldn’t be viewed as a last resort, but as part of a broader cultural shift towards openness and informal conflict resolution.
To imbed this culture, we recommend:
• Managers aretrained to recognise early signs of conflict and have difficult conversations
• Include informal resolution options in company policies
• Promoting open communication. Senior leadership playsa pivotal role - whenleaders demonstratea commitment to resolving conflict constructively and respectfully, it sets the tone for the entire organisation.
Impartiality is critical in mediation; therefore, organisations may need to engage theservices of external accredited mediators, which canalso help build confidence in the process.
Workplace conflict is not inherently negative; it can lead to innovation However, in atime when wellbeing and inclusivity are high on theagenda, mediation offersa practical, people-centred approach to handle conflict.
As the future of work continues to demand agility, empathy, and collaboration, organisations that embrace mediation as part of a broader people strategy are not just resolving disputes, they are building resilient, high-performing teams.
If you are an organisation based in the Republicof Ireland and require further information or advice relating to HR, please do not hesitateto contact our office on (066)7102887. ■
Markingaquarter-centuryofsuccess inthe FMCGindustry,the eventbrought together Stonehousemembersand key suppliers to reflectonthejourneyso farand to look aheadwith renewedenergyandpurpose.
The weekend wasinfusedwithboth nostalgiaand celebration.Fromits formation in2000asa resultofthemergeroftwo well establishedgroups,National Wholesale Alliance formedin1961,and Keencost Stores establishedin1971.
The25thanniversaryservednotonlyas a commemorationofpastmilestonesbutalso asaplatform to recognizetheindividualsand companieswhohave contributed to the group’s continuedgrowth.
JaniceGibney, chiefoperationsofficer reflectedonsomeofthechallenges faced overthepast25 yearsandhighlightedthe resilienceofmembersinnavigating, a currencychange,major recession,Brexit, a globalpandemic,impactsfrom warand everythingelsealongthe way.She highlightedthe currenteconomicuncertainty andtheimpactitwillhave onthemarketand stressedtheimportanceof continued collaborationbetweensuppliersand members to navigate alluncertainties.
“Thenatureof Stonehouseensuresour members remainindependent,whichallows them to react to changesinthemarket quickly,our customerserviceand customer reachissecond to none,whichmeans supplierscanbeguaranteedtheirproducts will reach every customerin every townand villageacrossIreland,soitisessential we maintainthe strong working relationships we have witheachother”.
Onthenight,thenewest memberofthe group was welcomed,Seery’sCash&Carry, to the Stonehouse familyand recognized M&PO’Sullivanwhoare celebrating120 years inbusinessthis year
The atmosphere wasoneofcamaraderie andoptimismasbothlongstandingpartners
The centerpieceofthe weekend wasthe Gold Standard Awards ceremony, which honoredoutstandingachievementsacross variouscategories. Fourteenmembers achievedtheGold Standard Awardand were celebrated fortheir excellenceinperformance, service, andpartnership overthepast year These awardsarea reflectionofthe commitment, resilience, andinnovationthat definethe Stonehouseethos.
Atripletriumph was achieved by McBrides,who were namedwinnersofboth the WhiteHatSalesand SupportandtheHomestead SalesandSupport awards, as wellasachievingthe Gold Standard Award. TaytoSnacks were honoredwiththe Promotionofthe Year award, recognisingthe importanceof strongimpactfulpromotional activitythat resonateswith customers.
TheProductofthe Yeartitle was awarded to CadburyDairyMilkMini Eggs8-Square (Mondelez),highlightingthe continuousneed
forinnovationand variety to engage customers.
Thehighlightofthe awards evening wasthe announcementoftheprestigiousSupplierof the Year2025,which went to BritvicIreland. This recognitionisa testament to Britvic’s consistentquality,innovation,andunwavering supportofthe Stonehousenetwork. Theirwin wasmetwith resoundingapplauseand highlightedthevital rolesuppliersplayinthe success oftheindustryasawhole.
Throughoutthe weekend,theluxurious
settingof TheKClubprovidedtheperfect backdrop for celebration, reflection,and connection. Attendeesenjoyed exceptional hospitality,livelynetworking events,and a sharedsenseofprideinwhathasbeen accomplished overthepast25 years.
Asthe Stonehousegrouplooks to thefuture, the25thAnniversaryGold Standard Awards weekendservedasapowerful reminderof whatcanbeachievedthrough collaboration, unity,dedication,and commitment to excellence. ■
Staffloyaltyseemsmorelike a raritythanthenorm,writes
NikkiMurran
There wasatime, notall that long ago, when a job in grocery was for lifeorat least until your knees gave out from years of stacking cases of Lucozade. Staff stuck around, customers knew their names, and the only reason someone left was to emigrate or retire.
But lately, staff loyaltyseems more like a rarity than the norm.
As someone who grew up in a family-run grocery business, I’ve seen the change firsthand. When I first started recruiting for the grocery sector 14 yearsago, candidates talked about“settling in” to a store.Today, they talk about“seeing how it goes.”
Grocery retail has changed. What was once a steady, if hectic, career path now looks more like a carousel with people hopping on and off, dizzy with options. There are more employers in the mix, new players with big branding and even bigger budgets, and candidates who are much more selective. More and more are being offered opportunities outside of retail - jobs with better hours and less manual work.
Even within thesector, they’re not just comparingsalaries anymore, they’re comparing cultures, managers, and even lunch options.
So, why are we losing good staff in our stores?
Theghostofmanagementpast
Let’s be honest—there are still some managers out there running their stores like it’s 1996 and everyone should just be grateful to have a job. They think staff should be loyal, silent, and thankful Spoiler alert: these managers are loyalty repellent.
Today’s workforce wants feedback, appreciation, and—brace yourself—a bit of work-life balance.
The ‘Grassisgreener’effect
We live in theage of Instagram careerenvy. Everyone’s job looks better online. So, when one cashier hears their friend is earning€2 more an hour stacking shelves down the road, and gets free coffee to boot, guess who’s handing in their notice?
Noladderinsight
Progression is a huge loyalty anchor, but only if people know it’s there. I’ve met countlesssales assistants with serious ambition, but no clear idea how to move up If your team can’tseea path forward, they’ll start looking sideways.
Burnout,withasideofburnout
Staff are leaving because they’reexhausted AndI don’t mean“after a long day on thetills” tired. I mean“can’t-get-my-roster-until-Sunday, no-time-for-lunch, covering-three-roles” exhausted.
A stretched team isn’ta loyal team. They’re just quietly plotting their escape.
So,what’sthefix?
It’s tempting to throw money at the problem, and yes, pay matters. But it’s rarely the only factor in the equation. Instead, we need to rebuildthe culture ofloyalty one step at atime Here’s how:
NIKKIMURRAN Director, Grocery Retail Recruitment,
Excel Recruitment www.excelrecruitment.com
• Make managers your secret weapon, not your flight risk. Invest in them Train them Teach themthat empathy isn’t weakness, it’s a retention strategy.
• Start talking career, not just contracts.Your part-timer could be your next store manager- if you’d only ask them what they want.
• Flexibility isn’ta perk anymore, it’s a deal-breaker Rigid rosters are pushing people out and late rosters cause frustration and increase absence Giving staff plenty of notice and the option to request or swap shifts, can massively improve jobsatisfaction.
• Appreciation is free. Use it deliberately, generously, and genuinely.
Thetruth is, loyalty hasn’t vanished, it’s just become atwo-way street Staff will stay, but only if they feel seen, supported, and more than just another body behind a counter.
Because whilethe world of grocery might be faster, flashier, and more fiercely competitive than ever, the heart of it hasn’t changed.
People still want to feel part of something. They want to belong.
And if you get that right? The whole teamand subsequently, your whole store willthrive. ■
4DESIGNS TO BE REVEALED
Roweonherjourney
CarlaRowe,Dublinfootballer, JohnWestambassador,and scienceteacher,caughtup with RyanBrennan
Dublin footballer Carla Rowe hasamassed standoutcareermomentsasshejuggleslifeas aninter-county playerandfull-time teacher,and her roleinpromotingunderagesportthrough theJohn West Féile.Chattingwith ShelfLife she reflectsonthehighsofliftingtheBrendan Martin Cup, thechallenges ofbalancing workand sport,andtheinspirationsthathave shapedher footballjourney to date.
Q: What hasbeenthehighlightof your footballcareerso far?
A: Itmustbewinningthe2023AllIrelandfinal afternotwinningin2021and2022.Obviously, beingcaptainofthe team wasanunbelievable honourandithadbeenachildhooddream to climbthe stepsoftheHogan Standandliftthe BrendanMartin Cup.
The teamhadbeenthroughalot overthe previous two years,soit wasanamazing achievementandincredible feeling to winagain asagroup,and to performas wellas we didon theday.
Q: What arethemajorchallenges you face workingasafull-timescience teacheras well asplaying for yourcluband county?
A: Thebiggestchallengesareprobablyaround timemanagement,andtrying to liveascloseas youcan to beinga‘professional’ athlete,despite workingfulltime.
Managingnutrition,sleep,socialising, relationships,andtrainingschedulesmean we allliveprettybusylivesasinter-county players Thedemandshave mostdefinitelyincreased overthelast10 years,soIamquitelucky to bea teacherandhave summerholidays whichalign withchampionship football.
Q: Can you tellusabout your roleasthebrand ambassador forJohn West?
A: Thisisabrilliant role,asunderagesport,and theimportanceofnutritionfromanearlyage, are veryimportant to me.My roleasabrand ambassador forJohn West is to promote10 yearsofitspartnershipwiththeGAA’sunder-15 annual Féile PeilenanÓg(football)and Féilena nGael (camogieandhurling) competitions. Itisaspecial year forJohn West,which wants to honourtheparentsand coaches
whoensurethousandsof youngplayers are brought togetherannuallyina celebrationof theGAA’s community ethosthroughunderage competition.
Having coached my clubClannMhuire’sJohn West Féileside,itisa roleI wasdelighted to takeon.Inthe10-yearsofJohn West’s sponsorshipof Féile,the competitionhas grown to becomeoneofthebiggestunderage sporting eventsinEurope.
John West willhave abigcampaignthis year duringtheentiremonthofJune- ‘OnAir’as TodayFM starAlison Curtiswillbeencouraging listeners to nominate theirJohn West Féile Heroand favouritelocalGAAclubs to win
amazingprizes-Andalsoin yourlocalshop, asJohn West willbebringingthecampaignin SuperValu stores.
Anice touch to reward theparents,the communities,andinvolvethelocal storesand localclubs,astheJohn West Féilefinalsare fast approaching!”
Q: Could yousharemoreaboutthecampaign youareinvolvedin?
A: John West Féileis, formanyplayers,their first time tocompete inanational competition. The companyhasalwaysbeen focusedon ensuringapositive experience forplayers, parentsand coacheswhomakesucha valuable
CarlaRowe,JohnWestambassadorandDublinfootballer
contribution to ensureitissospecial,soIam happy to helpinwhatever wayIcan to promoteit.
Throughoutitssponsorshipof Féile,John West has focusedontheimportanceofnatural,tasty nutritioninfuelling families,whilstencouraging teenagers to participate in Gaelicgamesand enjoyanactive, healthylifestyle.It couldnotbe abetterfit forme.
Q:Is confidencehighheadinginto theAllIrelandChampionshipandcanthe team reclaimthetitle?
A: Ourgoal at thebeginningof everyseason is to wintheAll-Irelandfinal.Anythinglessisa disappointment forus.But we knowthereare manychallengesalongthe way we willhave to overcome.
We need tofocuson every step,trainingsession andgamewhichwilltakeus towardsthegoals we want to achieve,andnotanythingelse. To besuccessful,Ithink youmusthave confidence, but confidence comeswithtraining welland performingduringmatches. We are confident, but we will continue to build.
Q: Every football starhassomeonetheylook up to. Whoistheplayerwhohasinspired you themostin yourjourney to the top?
A: Therehave been two key inspirations for methroughout my footballcareer.Firstly,all theplayers Ihave playedwith,bothcluband county.Ialwaystry to learnasmuchaspossible fromotherplayers whetheritbeskillsonthe pitch,orcharacteristicsoffit.
Oneof my biggest footballinspirations was SineadAherne,sheissuchaclassy footballerIlearnedsomuchfromher.An excellentcaptain whoIadmiredandlookedup to Secondly, my dad.Heisalwayssohard working,
Q: What’s thebiggestdifferencebetween training foraclub teamandtraining for Dublin?Arethereanyadjustments youneed to makewhen switchingbetweenthe two?
A: Thebiggestdifferencesaretheintensity anddemands. Thedemandsof county training, recovery,meetingsandanalysisaremuch
greaterthanclub football,butwithclub footballIenjoythefreedomandopen football we get to play, and we have matches every week.
Q: Youspoke to Evokelast yearsayinghow youfinditfunnywhenkidsin yourclassask about yoursportingcareer,doesthat still happen?
A: Sometimesitdoes stillhappen,mainlywith first yearsbecausetheyarenew to theschool andmostofthem wouldnotknowme.So halfwaythroughthe yeartheyhearorseethat Iplay forDublin,andtheycannotbelieve it,or theyfinditfunny.
Q: What do youlike to doin yourfreetime when you’renot workingortraining?
A: When completelyoff footballand workI absolutelylove travellingandgoingon road tripholidays.Ienjoyplanningtheitinerary anddifferent routesandthings to do.Ilove experiencingandseeingnewplaces,hikingor doingoutdooractivitiesindifferent countries.
Q: Can yousharesomethingabout yourself thatpeoplemightnotalreadyknow?
A: Ihave takenuppianoandamdoing pianolessons.Iam very, veryslowlymaking progress,butIenjoyit.Itmakesme switchoff from everythingelseandIgiveit my full focus. In termsofsongs,Ineedsome extratimeas ‘Let itGo’from Frozenis my bestso far- so definitelysomemoretimeneeded. ■
For Aodhain and Sinead Kiernan, returning home from Australia wasn’t just abouta change of sceneryit was about planting roots and buildingsomething with purpose. In a recent conversation with ShelfLife, Aodhain Kiernan, owner of Kiernan’s Nearby in Kilnaleck, Co Cavan shared the heartfelt story behind their decision to take over a long-standing local shop and the vision driving their journey.
Speakingon their decision, Aodhainsays,“When Sinead andI returned home from Australia, we knew we wanted to build something lasting, something meaningful for years to come.”
“Kilnaleck hasalways been my home, but for Sinead, it wasa new start and we both wanted to connect to the Kilnaleck community in a way that also supported the area.”
“Whena shop withdeep roots in my family and in the village came up forsale, we knew it was the perfect opportunity We see thisas a chance to continue a
family run business andmake it our own.”
‘Excitinganddaunting’
Aodhain and Sinead opened their store in early November 2022.
A move Aodhainsays was“bothexciting and dauntingat thesame time.”
“Ourgoal is to turn our shop into the community hub, with all keyservices under one roof,” he explains.
“We wanted to be part ofthesolution to give people a reason to shop local and feelproud oftheir community again.
“To grow we knew we had to update the look and feel of our store, ” he adds “We thenlooked fora symbol partner who understood our goals not just in business, but for our community too. That’s where Nearby came in and it wasa perfect fitin bothname and values.”
Staffsupport
When it comes to launching or transforming a retail space,having the right support can make all the difference. For businesses looking to elevate their operations, collaboration with experienced partners is key.
“The team at Nearbysupported us from the start. From the initial planning to shop design and implementation, theirexpertise wassecondto none,” Aodhain highlights.
helped us reimagine the shop Oursenior business development manager, Stephen Vincent’s attention to detail also helped support our vision and growth for the future; this, coupled withthe support from the awardwinning Nearby marketing team, ensures we areset to grow from strength to strength in Nearby Kilnaleck.”
“Since rebranding with Nearby our stores offering has increased to include an ATM, deli, icecream, outdoor catering and more. Our aim is to make the
shop a place people want to visit, and we’reseeing it become the hub that the community has needed for some time.”
Lookingahead
Buildinga successful local business takes more than just passion, it requires the right support anda shared sense of purpose. For the team at Kiernan’s Nearby in Kilnaleck, partnering with Nearby has provided both.
Asthey continue to growand connect with their community, Aodhain reflects on the role Nearby has played in helping them bring their vision to life.
“Nearby gives us the tools and direction to support this vision within the Kilnaleck community, stayingtrue to Nearby’s tagline‘Never toofar fromhome’,” he concludes. ■
Ireland’sgrocery retailindustrygatheredin style at Dublin’s RoyalMarineHotelon Wednesday, 14May, forthe2025 ShelfLife GroceryManagement Awards (GMA’s)– a nightdedicated tocelebratingindividual excellenceacrossthesector.
Asthesunbathedthe stunning coastal venueingoldenlight,guests were welcomed withasparklingchampagne reception. The lively atmospheresettheperfect tone forthe evening,asnearly360oftheindustry’s finest professionalsnetworked, reconnected,and raisedaglass to theachievementsahead.
Thehighlightofthe eveningcamewiththe announcementofAidanDoyleof Pettitt’s SuperValu,Bray, Co Wicklowasthe2025 ShelfLife NationalGrocery RetailManagerof the Year.Doyle receivedhis award fromOwen Clifford,headof Retail at BankofIreland,the event’s platinumsponsor. The awards were heldinassociationwithExcel Recruitment, withwinnersselectedthroughanindependent judgingprocess.
ThejudgespraisedDoyle forhispassion and commitmentthathasmadehimnotonly
a strongleader,butalsoamentorand a consistenthighperformer.
Commentingonthe factorswhichmade Doylea first-classmanager,NikkiMurran, directorofGrocery Recruitment at Excel Recruitment,saidonthenight:“This year’s SupremeChampionisatruecareer retailer –someonewholivesandbreathesthetrade Withanunwaveringpassion for retail,adeep beliefinthepowerof customertrust,andan incredibledrive to deliver excellence, this individualhasbuiltalegacyofleadership, resilience, and results.”
“BankofIrelandaredelighted to once againbeleadsponsoroftheGrocery management awards. These awards showcasethe excellent standardsandservice delivered by theIrishgrocerysector. They also celebratethesignificant contribution made by personnelwithinthesector to their local communitiesnationwide. Personally,it remainsaprivilege to supportand recognise allthat’sgreatabouttheinternationally renownedIrishgrocerysector at this showcase event.”
Aidan Doyle,managerof Pettitt’s SuperValu in Bray,Co. Wicklow,has been named the2025 ShelfLife National Grocery Retail ManageroftheYear,also winning thetitle of Large Supermarket ManageroftheYear Recognised for his leadership,passion,and consistent results,Doyle was honoured at a ceremony hosted in association with Excel Recruitment and presented with his award by Owen Clifford,head of Retail atBank of Ireland.
Nikki Murran,director of Grocery Recruitment at Excel Recruitment,described Doyle as“a true career retailer –someone who lives and breathes thetrade, praising his ability to lead with both heart and strategy Having more than doubled expectedsales in his first year at the Bray store,Doyle’s leadership has gone far beyond numbers.He’s built a strong internal culture,empowered his team,and driven a standard of excellence that earned himnational recognition.
‘Shockedbutdelighted’
Reflectingon hisdouble win,Doylesays the recognition came as a surprise.“Shocked butdelighted,”he says simply “It was very unexpected- but it’s a great honour to be recognised by peers in the industry I’m incredibly thankful.”
Strong standards
For Doyle,what distinguishes his store isn’t just products orpromotions- it’s heritage and values Having worked withthree generations ofthe Pettittfamily - Jackie,Des, and now Cormac- he credits their unwavering focus on customerservice,local support,and quality at affordable prices as the foundation for success.
“Our strong team drives the standards every single day,” he says “We’ve built a culture of constant improvement, and staff take real pride in developing theirdepartments. That’s a big part of what sets us apart.”
Teambuilding
Since taking the helm nearly four yearsago,Doylehas overseenthe evolution of what was then a very new team
We want to keepthemomentum goingwhilealways striving to getbetter.
“We started with a group that was fresh and relatively untested,”he recalls.“But they’ve grown immensely - both individually and as a collective.”
He puta big emphasis on team bonding and connecting withthe local community,laying the groundwork for longterm success.“It took time togel,but once the bond formed, everythingfrom customerservice to store energy improved.”
Maintaininghigh standards
Thesecret to consistent excellence?According to Doyle,it comesdown to empowering staff and hiring with intention. “Experience is valuable,but attitude is everything When someone hasthe right mindset,it’s easy to guidethem.”
Customerservice is embedded in the store’s DNA.Staff receivetrainingfrom dedicated professionals like Ciara Regan andVeronica Sexton,and feedback tools like NPS (Net Promoter Score) ensure great work doesn’t gounnoticed.“We also useWorkvivo to share updates and highlight in-store achievements- it helps keepeveryone connected and motivated.”
Showinginitiative
Among the initiatives Doyle is proudest of is the store’s approach to eventmanagement.“We challenged every department togo after key occasions,”he says “The results were fantastic.”
Forexample,during PancakeTuesday,the bakery team builta custom frying station thatcreateda buzz and helped sell 1,500 pancake packs.Last Easter,the storesoldan impressive30,000 freshlymade Hot Cross Buns.“The staff took ownership and brought ideas to life - that’s what made it all work.”
Stayingahead
Doyle keeps the Bray store competitive by tapping into a range of resources.Support from the head office,regular analysis of customer feedback,and staying in tune with retail publications andglobaltrends areall part ofthe strategy.
“Tripstotop-performing stores - both here and abroadare invaluable,”he says.“And Cormac Pettitt and the leadership teamarealways willing to invest in new initiatives and equipment That level of support makes a hugedifference.”
Rootedin community
Community engagement is a cornerstone of Pettitt’s identity From sponsoring localGAA and rugby teams to supporting charities andfamily initiatives,the store’s presence extends far beyond its walls.
“In Bray,we’ve become involved withlocalGAA and soccer clubsand partnered withAlive Outside at Kilruddery House,which runs kids’activity camps These relationships help us understand and support the community in a real, meaningful way.”
Futuregoals
As for what’s next,Doyle is focused on sustainability and growth “Succession planning is big for us - we’redeveloping leadership from within,”he says Improvements to product
“We want to keep the momentumgoing while always striving toget better.”
Strongadvice
For those consideringa career in grocery retailmanagement, Doyle emphasisespassion,resilience,and humility.“Be passionateabout fresh food,your people,and high standards,” he advises.“Learn every part ofthe store- understand what yourteam deals with Listen more than you talkandalways keepperspective.”
And aboveall?“Don’t lose your work-life balance.It’s easy
to becomefully immersed in the role,but finding joy outside of work is key.”
Teamsuccess
Though the awardsbear hisname,Doyle insists they belong to the team “The recognition is great,buthaving a strong, motivated team isfar more rewarding,”he says.Celebrations arealready planned,with staff parties and bondingsessions on the horizon.
As for where thetrophies will live?“I’m not big on personal accolades.The awards will stay in-store,proudly displayed alongside others ourteam has earned- with room for more in the future.” ■
Experienceis valuable,but attitudeis everything.Whensomeone hastherightmindset,it’seasy to guidethem.
Fiona Lynham wonCustomerServiceManagerofthe Year2025becausesheleadsher teamwithenergy, warmth,anda razor-sharp focusonthe customer Everydecisionshemakesisdriven by service standards,anditshows -whetherit’s thepace at the tills,howissuesare resolved,orhowher teamis coachedandsupported.Fionadoesn’tjust respond to customers-sheanticipatestheirneedsand raises thebar everyday.
What setsFionaapartishowcalm, composed,and capablesheis, evenunderpressure. Her teamtrusts her,her customers rememberher,andthe store benefitsfromher everyshiftsheleads.Shebrings consistencyandheart to thefrontend,makingher a true standoutinherfield.
Vincentleadsoneofthebusiestandmost successfuldelidepartmentsinthe country, accounting for over30%of total storesalesand growing by morethan20%each year. With a backgroundasachefandadeeppassion for food, Vincenthasintroducedinnovativeofferings likeaself-servecarveryandbuiltadedicated, customer-focused team. Congratulations to Vincentonthis well-deserved recognition!
Delicatessen/Food to Go Managerofther Year–C-Store FINALISTS
• VincentWhitmore,Sheahans Centra, Killarney, Co Kerry
• EugenioAssenzi,McCormack’sMACE, Manorhamilton, Co Leitrim
• MichelleSeery, TopOil/Daybreak, Garrycastle, Co Westmeath
Since steppingintoher roleinSeptember , Catalinahasguidedher teamthroughamajor store revampwhileelevating standardsacross theboard.Herpassion forquality,personalised service, and exceptional foodhastransformed thedeliintoadestinationof excellence. Catalina leads by example,andherenergyanddedication continue to inspireher team everyday. Well done,Catalina!
AwardSponsored by BunzlIreland
• Aleksandra Zdonczyk,SPAR, Castlebar, Co.Mayo
Delicatessen/Food to Go Managerofthe Year–Supermarket FINALISTS
Markhasbeen awardedSmall C-StoreManagerof the Year forhisoutstandingleadership,dedication toteamdevelopment,andunwavering focuson deliveringan exceptionalin-store experience. As StoreManagerof Roche’sMACEinLimerick,Mark bringsahands-on,people-firstapproach to retail management-prioritisingtimemanagement, organisation,andmentorship to ensurehis team receivesthesamesupportthatshapedhis own career. Witha strong commitment to customer service, value,andoperational excellence, Mark’s leadership continues to setthe standard,andhis team’sdetermination to maintainthishighbarinto 2025 reflectsthe strong foundationhe’sbuilt.
RajhasearnedtheMedium C-StoreManagerofthe Year award thanks to his exceptionalleadershipand strategicvisioninlaunchingandgrowingabrandnew convenience storefromthegroundup.Raj broughtthe expertiseand steadyhandneeded to establish strongoperations,buildahigh-performing team,anddeliver standout customerservice. Over the store’sfirst year-situatedbeneathabusy400bed studentaccommodation complex-Raj’s focus on stockoptimisation, convenience, and community engagementturnedthe storeintoatrustedlocal hub.His commitment to efficiency, team development,and customersatisfactionhasdriven impressivegrowth,positioningthe storeasa key shoppingdestinationinahighly competitivemarket.
A strategic eyeandflair for retail,Declanhas managed to turnhis storeintothego-to foodhubin Cork.Declanhasbeensuccessfulinbuilding a strong teamaroundhim,whichhecredits to the storessuccessesthroughtrainingandtakingon boardallsuggestions.Declanearnedthis award throughhis excellentpeoplemanagementandhis abilityinspottingtrendsin food retail.
FINALISTS
• MarkRyan, RochesMACE, Co.Limerick
• Sharon Leavy, Leavys’Nearby, Delvin, Co Westmeath
• Meighread Till LondisHueston Station,Dublin8
• MartaDzwonnik, LondisGorey, Co Wexford
• Michael Kelleher,Herlihys Centra, 11 Patrick Street, Cork
• LukeBergin, Centra,Boghall Road, Bray, Co Wicklow
• Greg Kuderski,Herlihy Centra, Grand Parade, Co Cork
• John Reilly,Sheahan Centra, CollegeSquare, Killarney, Co Kerry
Thesmall forecourtcategory was won by a very deservingJayd DavidwhomanagesMaguiresof Rooskey Galapairedwitha SweeneyOil forecourt. CommentingonJayd’s enthusiasm,knowledgeand contribution to therunningofa verysuccessful businessthejudgingnote stated: “Jaydisarising star and keenly focusedonher retailmanagementcareer Her focusondeveloping staffandleading by example to boostmotivation,efficiencyand teamworkarenoted. Thiscandidate liases wellwith the store ownersanddeliversa streamlined retail environment.”
Athree year veteran at storemanagerlevelthis winnerhas reallymadehermark at the Centra C-StorewithanEMO forecourt at Junction13.Anya Furlongbelievesthathersuccess hingedontwo key focuses,thefirstofwhich wasgettingthefresh food offeringup to thenextlevel;theequallyimportant second focus wasdevelopingandtrainingthe team. Thejudges were confidentthatthiscandidate was “A superbmanagerwithagreatunderstandingof how to drivemarginandturnover at thismedium sized forecourt& convenience store. Anya has a great eye fordetailandisatruebelieverin standards.”
What thejudgessaid:
Proudofhis storeandpassionate aboutthe retail trade,Brianaims to givehis customersthe verybest experiencethroughcreatingapositive& welcoming atmospherethroughoutthe store. Heleads by example, focusingon strongpeoplemanagement andbuildingamotivated,close-knit teamwhichhas led to asuccessfultrading year forthe storea very well-deservedwinner.
FINALISTS
• Jayd David,McGuires Gala/Sweeney Oil,CarrickonShannon, Co Leitrim
This year’s winner was recognised for his exceptionalleadership,dedication to high standards,and strong rapport withbothhis teamandlocal community. Thanks to hisdirection, EUROSPARRathkealehas continued to grow,delivering excellencein serviceandcreatingashopping experiencethattruly standsout.His talent forinspiringhis team,driving operationalsuccess,and fostering a positivein-store atmospheremade himaclearanddeservingchoice for this award.
AwardSponsored by Bank of Ireland
• DamienWhite,EUROSPARRathkeale, Co.Limerick
• ShaneGibney,Donnybrook Fair, Greystones, Co Wicklow
• DesHope, ALDI Roscommon, Retail Park, Co Roscommon
• JolitaMazulyte,ALDIRahoon, Knocknacarra, Co Galway
This year’s winnerlivesandbreathes retail,having builta stellarcareermarked by boldmovesandbig results.Since relocating to Dublin,they’vebecome a powerhouse-openingnew stores,leadingwith passion,anddelivering consistentperformance. Theirsecretsauce? Leadingwithheartandbuilding teamsthatthrive. They don’tjustrun stores-they build communities.
This year’s SupremeChampionisatruecareer retailer–someonewholivesandbreathesthetrade Withanunwaveringpassion for retail,adeepbelief inthepowerof customertrust,andanincredible drive to deliver excellence, thisindividualhasbuilt a legacyofleadership, resilience, and results. Aftermorethanthreedecadesintheindustry,this championdidn’t rest onitslaurels.Instead,they embracedafreshchallengejust four yearsago, takingonanew storeandsettingout to maketheir mark.Andwhatamarktheymade–morethan doubling expectedsalesinthefirst yearalone. Buttheirgreatest achievement?Buildinga culture. A team cultureso strongit’s becomethebackboneof the store’s continuedsuccess,where every team member feelsempowered, valued,anddriven to delivertheirbest everyday.
AwardSponsored by Glenhaven
What thejudgessaid:
Ezolda,named2025’sHRManagerofthe Year, championsinclusion,supportiveenvironments,and culturesoflearning.SheusesHR to enhance customerserviceacrossher store’s115 colleagues, achieving top regional rankingslast year.Her leadershipandHRsupporthave fostered excellent staff retentionin today’schallengingenvironment. Ezoldatakesprideinensuringher storeisalways a ‘safespace forall.’
• O’Briens Costcutter Service Station Bishopstown, Cork
• BrodericksSPAR Croom, Co.Limerick
• TopOil Garrycastle/ Daybreak, Athlone, Co Westmeath
• SuperValu Blanchardstown, Co.Dublin
• O’Keeffe’sSuperValu Bantry, Cork
• Herlihys Centra, 83Grand Parade, Cork
• Pettitt’s SuperValu Bray, Co Wicklow
• Sheahans Centra, Muckross Road, Killarney, Co Kerry
AwardSponsored
BrandMarketingTeamoftheYear
“Wearedelighted to receivethis award fromthe industryin recognitionofMcVitie’s,which continues to bea consumer favouriteandgoesfrom strength to strength.”
BrandMarketing Teamof The Year
FINALISTS
• PladisIreland
• TaytoSnacks
• Heineken
• Coca-ColaHellenic
• Feastables by Mr.Beast
• NordicSpirit
• DMC Foods
AwardSponsored by S&WWholesale
• Cheez-It
• Lucozade
• Hale Vaping Trading Teamofthe Year FINALISTS
• Dunnes Stores
• TescoIreland
• AldiIreland
• Applegreen
• Gala Retail
• S&WWholesale
• MusgraveGroup
• LidlIreland
• BWG Foods
• BarryGroup
• CircleK
• Maxol
What thejudgessaid:
Dunnes Storesclinched Trading Teamofthe Year,as voted by suppliers,thanks to itsoutstandingmarket leadershipandsupplierpartnerships. With a record 25%marketshareand€39millionupliftvia increasedtripfrequencyandbasketsize, Dunnes’ unwaveringinvestmentinlocalsourcingand promotionsearnedsupplieracclaim.
AwardSponsored by ShopperIntelligence
What thejudgessaid:
This year’s SupremeChampionisatruecareer retailer–someonewholives andbreathesthetrade. Withanunwaveringpassion for retail,adeepbelief inthepowerof customertrust,andanincredibledrive to deliver excellence, thisindividualhasbuiltalegacyofleadership, resilience, and results.
Aftermorethanthreedecadesintheindustry,thischampiondidn’t rest onitslaurels.Instead,theyembracedafreshchallengejust four yearsago, takingonanew storeandsettingout to maketheirmark.Andwhatamark theymade–morethandoubling expectedsalesinthefirst yearalone. Buttheirgreatest achievement?Buildinga culture. A team cultureso strongit’s becomethebackboneofthe store’s continuedsuccess,where every teammember feelsempowered, valued,anddriven to delivertheir best everyday. ■
Guests were welcomedwithasparkling champagne receptionasthelively atmosphere settheperfect tone forthe evening,as over 360oftheindustry’s finestprofessionals networked, reconnected,and raisedaglass to theachievementsahead.
“We’veadapted to meetthechangingneeds oftheindustryandour customers,”says Anne O’Reilly,headofbusiness.“Butour commitment to reliabilityandqualityservice hasalways stayedthesame.”
“We’re constantlyanalysingdataand listening to feedback,”O’Reilly explains.“Our buyingandcategory teams workcloselywith suppliersand retailers to ensureouroffering reflectsboth currenttrendsandwhat’s comingnext. Thisagilityiswhat keepsus competitive.”
Thepowerofpartnership
BeingamemberoftheSugrobuyinggroup isa strategicadvantagethatdirectlybenefits O’Reilly’s customers. Through collective buyingpower, thebusinessisable to offer highly competitivepricingandaccess to
“Wealso workwithtrustedlogistics partners to extendour reachwhile maintainingservicequality,” sheadds.“It’s a balanceofin-house excellenceand strategic outsourcing.”
Long-termsupplier relationships
Decadesof strongsupplier relationships underpinO’Reilly’sability to offer flexible solutionsand competitivedeals to customers. Thesepartnershipsallowthe business to negotiatefavourable termsand rapidly respond to marketchanges.
clients-whetherthat’s fasteraccess to new products,tailored ranges,or volume discounts.”
Growingontheglobal stage
The company’s exportbusinesshasseen significant expansionin recent years,with internationalgrowthhelping to diversify operationsandbringgloballearningsback to thedomesticmarket.
“Supplyingbothlocalandinternational customersallows us to bemore resilient,” O’Reillynotes.“Eachmarket comeswithits ownchallenges,butwiththeright technologyandlocalpartnerships, we’re able to adaptandthrive.”
Recentdevelopmentsincludethe installationofsolarpanels at the company’s warehouseandoffices-a step toward reducingenergy consumptionandlowering carbonemissions.“Theseinitiativesarepart ofawider strategy to alignwith sustainabilitygoalswhilemeeting customer expectations for responsiblebusiness practices,”O’Reillysays.
Championingindependent retailers
Independent retailers remaina cornerstone ofO’Reilly’sbusinessmodel. The company supportsthemwith flexiblepricing,bespoke product ranges,anddedicatedaccount management.
“These retailersarevital to thelocal economy,”says O’Reilly.“Wedon’tjust supplythem- weworkinpartnership to help themgrow They bringdiversityand innovation to themarketina way large chainsoftencan’t.”
Lookingahead
With over65 yearsinbusiness,O’Reilly’sis nowplanning forthefuturethroughabold five-yeargrowth strategy.A key pillarofthis strategyisthe constructionofanew12-acre warehouse facility at Martin’sLaneinNewry, asignificant expansionfromtheir current base.
“Thisnewsitewillgreatlyincreaseour capacityandefficiency,”O’Reilly explains. “It’s notjustaboutspace-it’s about incorporatingthelatest technology for realtimeinventorymanagementand streamlined fulfilment.”
Digitaltransformationisalsoonthe horizon,withinvestmentsine-commerce, analytics,andsupplychain toolsdesigned to offergreater flexibilityandinsight to customers.Sustainability remainshighon
Want to seehowO’Reilly’s Wholesalecansupport yoursuccess?
“We’realso expandingour reachacross Ireland,”addsO’Reilly.“Ourgoalis to serve more communitiesandbusinesses,building strongpartnershipsandsupportinglocal economies.”
AsO’Reilly’s Wholesaleentersthis exciting newchapter,its focus remainsoninnovation, growth,anddelivering exceptional value to its customersandpartners- valuesthathave definedthebusinesssince1959 andwill continue to doso wellintothefuture. ■
Condimentkings
What beganasabold venture by husbandand-wifeduoShannon ForrestandMichelin Star-trainedchefDeclanMalonehas blossomedintooneofIreland’smost exciting artisan foodbusinesses. Co-foundersof Rívesci,ShannonandDeclanlaunchedtheir foodtruckinSeptember2019,undeterred by theoff-peakseasonandtheuncertaintiesit brought. The couplehadspentmonths perfectingtheirmenuand researchingthe market-andtheirinstinctsprovedright.From theget-go,there wasaclearappetite forwhat they wanted to bring to thetable.
Butlikemanysmall foodbusinesses,Rívesci facedapivotalmomentwhenthe COVID-19 pandemichitinearly2020.Ratherthan stall, ShannonandDeclanadapted.Drawingfrom theirbusinesssavvy,theytransitionedfrom foodtruckservice to full-time condiment production-amove that woulddefinethe nextphaseoftheirjourney.
Rootsandinspiration
Declan’spath to culinary excellence was anythingbut conventional. Returning to educationinhismid-thirties tocompletehis Leaving Cert,hepursuedhispassion for food by enrollingintheCulinaryArtsprogramme at WaterfordInstituteof Technology.Hisfine
RívesciDecsHotHoney
RívesciShannonForrestandDeclanMalone
dining experience washoned at theLady Helen RestaurantinMountJuliet,underHead ChefJohn Kelly.
Shannon,whosebackgroundisin retail, tourism,andmarketing,holdsa BA (Hons)in Marketingandlaunchedher firstbusinessin Kilkenny at just25.BothShannonandDeclan comefromentrepreneurial families,making thedecision to gointobusiness together feel likeanatural step-albeitonetakenwith cautiousoptimism.
Theoriginaldreamhadbeenabricks-andmortarcafé, butthehigh costsmadethat unfeasible at first.Instead,the foodtruck allowedthem to showcasethebestoflocal Tipperaryproduce, withDeclanhighlighting ingredientsfromthe Tipperary Food ProducersNetwork,includingEmeraldOils rapeseedoilandproducefromMartin’sFruit and Veg.
Thepivot tocondiments
When festivalsandmarketscame to ahalt duringlockdownthepairhadjust completed Supervalu Food Academy, pitchingtwoof Declan’soriginal foodtruck condiments: CashewChilliCrushand RedOnion Marmalade.Both were accepted-andboth provedimmenselypopular.
CashewChilliCrush wenton to earn a coveted3-Staraccolade at theUK’sGreat Taste Awards,propellingRívesciintothe nationalspotlight.Soon,theirproducts were stockedin Avocaandnumerousindependent storesacrossIreland. Thesuccess meant scalingup-andquickly.Injust18months,
Rívescimovedpremisesthreetimes to meet risingdemand.
They arenowbased at 80Irishtown,Clonmel - fittingly,the very streetwhereShannongrew up. Their currentpremiseshousesnotonly theirproductionunitbutalsoacharming to-go coffeeshop,wheretheyselltheirfull rangeof condimentsandchillioilsalongsidea curated selectionofIrish foodanddrinkproducts.
Strikinggold
WhenaskedaboutwinningGoldand ultimatelySupremeChampion at theBlasna hÉireannIrish Food Awards,Shannonand Declan’s reactionisoneofgenuinegratitude.
“It’s suchanincrediblehonour,” theysay. “To be recognisedonanationallevel,especially by an award as respectedasBlas, validates everything we’vepouredintothis-fromearly mornings at markets to late nightsin production. We’reproudofwhat we’vebuilt and evenprouderofthe communitythathas supportedus.”
SuperValuannouncedinMaythatithas launchedanewcharitypartnershipwith AsIAm,Ireland’s Autismcharity, to offer shopperstheopportunity to donate the money receivedfrom returningcansand bottlesthroughtheDeposit ReturnScheme (DRS) at nationwide stores. Throughthe initiative, customers returningcansand bottles at SuperValu storeswillhave the option to donate theirdeposit to theAsIAm.
Thecharityis currentlyprominently featured at deposit return stationswithin SuperValu stores,ensuringshoppers understandhowtheirsmallactionscanlead to bigchanges,both fortheenvironment and forAsIAm.
A: AsIAm,Ireland’s AutismCharity,hashad a long,fruitfulpartnershipwithSuperValu, datingback to the roll-outof AutismFriendlyShoppingHoursin2014.Support fromSuperValuhasenabledAsIAm to increasepublicunderstanding,improve accessibilityin communitiesacrossIreland andscaleour teamandservices. We were delightedwhenthe teaminMusgrave reachedoutwiththisnewopportunity
Q:Howdo youenvisionthispartnership contributing to greaterautism awareness andinclusioninIreland?
A: AsIAmmust raiseapproximately50cin everyeurothat we spend,just to stand still. While over5000 familiesand1500 Autistic adultsare registered to access ournational supportprogrammes, we knowthat at least onein20childreninIrishschoolshave an Autismdiagnosisand face majorbarriers to accessingsupport. At thesametime,more Autisticpeopleareageingoutofschoolor accessingdiagnosislaterinlife. Thesupport fromthisinitiativewillenableus tocontinue to sustainandgrow programmeswhich promotesocial connectionand well-being, promotepeersupportandhelpprevent mentalhealthcrisis.Manyofthebarriersour community facecomesfromalackofpublic understandingandautismacceptance, thisis whypartnershipswhichsupportthevisibility ofour communityarecritical to achieving ourvisionofanIrelandinwhich every Autisticpersonisaccepted “astheyare”equal, valuedand respected.
Connectingrecycling withgivingback
Q:Can youshareanyspecificgoalsortargets AsIAmhopes to achieve throughthefunds raisedfromthisinitiative?
A: AsIAmisnowinourseconddecadeof activity,and we have pledged to expandour regional footprint to ensure every Autistic personcanaccess oursupports,acrossthelife cycle,asandwhentheyneedthemintheir locality. Thisisnosmall feat butiscritically neededdue to thedirthofautism-specific supportsandservicesandthebarriersour community faces to access mainstreampublic and communityservices.Inthe comingmonths, we willopenour firsttwo regional“One-StopShops”intheeastand west ofthe country whilstsimultaneously expandingournational supportsoffering to newlocationsacrossthe country.Fundingfromthisinitiativecanmake a powerfulimpactinthenumberofpeopleand locations we can reachin2025.
Q:WhatchallengesdidAsIAm face inscaling itsservices,andhowwillthispartnershiphelp addressthem?
A: Thereissuchadisconnectbetweenthe demand forourservicesandthe resources we have to meetthatdemand. That iswhythe supportof corporateorganisationsandthe publicispathcritical to oursuccess.InAsIAm itisnotjustaboutwhat we do,itishow we do it. We are veryproud to bean Autistic-led organisationwhichtakesaneuroaffirmative approach to thedevelopmentanddeliveryof oursupportprogrammes,thishasmeant recruitingawide rangeofskillsetsandensuring our teamis reflectiveofthebroader Autistic community. We have morethandoubledinsize inthelast year,inaneffort to scaleourimpact, butthiscanonlybesustainedthrough partnershipssuchasour relationshipwith SuperValu.
Q:What roledo yousee for corporate partnershipsinadvancingsocialcauseslike autisminclusion?
A: Corporatepartnershipsareacritical toolnot onlyin termsoffundingour workbutalso reachingaudienceswhomayneverthinkabout Autismor realisethepoweroftheindividualin takingaction to bringaboutchange.If we are seriousaboutinclusion, Autisticpeoplemust seethemselves reflectedin everyaspectof Irishsocietyand we need to be comfortable talkingabout Autismandplanning forthe needsofour communitynotjustinautismspecificservicesbutacrossallsectors.Itis a
challengingtime forthoseofus workinginthe areaofdiversity,equityandinclusionasthe globalpoliticalclimate indicatesthat forward progress,onsomanyfronts,cannolongerbe taken forgranted. That said,Ithink we have an awfullot to beproudofin termsofIrish businessesholdingthelineanddemonstrating thatissuessuchasdisabilityanddiscrimination aremoreimportantnowthan ever
Q:HowdoesAsIAmmeasurethesuccess of itspartnerships,andwhatmetricsaremost important?
A: InAsIAm we believe passionatelyin co-creatingallaspectsofour workwiththe communitythat we serve.Whetheritismaking shoppingmoreaccessible for Autisticpeople, by changingtheenvironment,orcreating employmentopportunities for Autisticpeople thecriticaldeterminantofsuccess ishowour communitydefinesit.Also,themeasurable differencemade for Autisticpeopleaccessing thisserviceorengagingwiththispartner.In the contextofafundraisinginitiative, thescale anddepthoftheimpact we areenabled to create andthe experiencesofthosewho access ourservicesare key
Q:Arethereplans to expandthisinitiative to other retailersor regionsinthefuture?
A: AsIAmislucky to have a rangeof very strong corporatepartnersfromPTSB to SuperValu. We arealways keen to hearfrom organisationsthat want to goonthejourney towardsamoreautism-friendlyofferingor to supportthescalingofour work. Theperiod aheadisan excitingone forAsIAmas we prepare to hostthe14th AutismEurope CongressintheRDSfromthe11th-13th September,providinganincrediblelaunchpad fornew corporatepartners to engagewithus.
Q:Whatmessage would youlike toconvey to individuals consideringdonatingtheirDRS vouchers to AsIAm?
A: We have allheardthatittakesavillage to raiseachild,butit certainly requiresawhole community tocome together to breakdown thepervasive, invisiblebarriersour community faces.Moneywhichmanypeoplewillhave discountedor forgottenabout,cansoeasily to be converted to enablemeaningfulchangein your community for Autisticpeople. By helping to protecttheenvironment forall, youcanalso helpcreate thesamechance for Autistic people to participate inactivitiesinthe communitythatmosttake forgranted. ■
AdamHarris,CEO,AsIAm
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Duringthelatest 12-weekperiod,Dunnes shopperspickedupmore volumepertrip,up 0.7%alongsidemakingmorefrequenttrips, up1.8%,which contributeda combined€20.2 million to their overallperformance.
Tescoholds23.3%ofthemarket,with value growthof 7.1% year-on-year.Shoppers increasedtheirtrips to store by 5.3%,which contributed€41.3million to overall performance.
SuperValuholds20.3%ofthemarketwith growthof5.4%. Consumersmadethemost shoppingtrips to thisgrocer, averaging 24.9 trips overthelatest 12 weeks,helping to contributeanadditional€38.9million to its performance.
Aldiholds11.7%marketshare, up6.8%. Increasedtrips to storeandnewshoppers drove anadditional€24.2millioninsales.
Warmerweather
Warmer weather,longerdays andtimespent outdoorsisdriving consumerspending, according to thelatest grocerydatafrom Kantar. Take-home valuesalesinIreland over the four weeks to 18May2025increased by 6.6% compared to thesameperiodlast year DuringMay, shoppers were in-store an averageof22.3times, contributingan additional €17million to themarket’s overall performance.
Grocerypriceinflation currently stands at 4.96% compared to thesame12-weekperiod last year.Inflationhasincreased2.4 percentagepointssincethesametime last year.
“Risingpricesareinfluencingbothsales performanceand consumerbehaviour,” according to EmerHealy,business developmentdirector at Kantar. “Although householdshave beenadjustingtheir spending forsometimenow, what we’re seeingisaclear‘tippingpoint’wheninflation goesabove 3% to 4%. Thisiswhenshoppers really start to feelitintheir wallets,andthey changetheirbehaviour.
“Asa result,supermarketsarehaving to be morecreativeinthe way they attract shoppersin-store andonline–offering qualityproducts at therightprice.”
Promotionallines
Shoppersspentanadditional €124 millionon promotionallines overthelast12 weeks compared to thesameperiodlast year, according to Kantar,which recordedthehighest shareofpacksonpromotion over22%;the highestlevelsinceMay2021.
Hale Vaping(Hale)ispreparing forand responding to the evolvinglandscapeof vaping regulations,bothinIrelandand internationally.
Speakingwith ShelfLife,Carrollhighlights thatHalehasbeen working for overadecade to transformIreland’s vapinglandscapewith a clearmission: to provideanalternative for adultsseeking to reducetheharmcaused by cigarettes.However,he feelsthatmissionis underthreatfrom“misguided regulatory changes.”
“Weare concernedthatthe current proposalswillplaceunnecessaryburdenson retailersand reduce consumers’choices,”he says.“Weseenowasatimeofaction to protectIreland’ssmoke-freefuturewhich involvesengagingindialoguewith governmentministers,supporting retailers withinformationonhow to beapartofthe discussion,ensuring consumersareclearon possible consequencesandcreatingour portfolio forthefuture.”
Productinnovation
The rolescientific researchandproduct innovationplayinensuringHale’sproducts meetor exceed regulatory standards.
Carrollnotesthatallitsproductsmeetthe regulatory standards-fromthoseHale distributes, to theproductsitmakesin Carlow.
“Ina fast-movingcategorylike vaping innovationis key and we area consumerfocusedbusiness,bringingthelatest
products to marketastheNo.1 vaping companyinIreland,”hesays.
Commitment to sustainability
SohowdoesHale’s commitment to sustainabilityalignswithupcoming regulatory pressures,particularlyaroundenvironmental impactandproduct waste?
“Weunderstandthe concernsaround waste associatedwithused vapingproductsand stemmingfromdisposables. Thisisaproblem that we areaddressinginour ownbusiness andsupportingour retail customers to dothe same. We areactivelyembracingsolutions to mitigate thisissueasmuchaspossible,” Carrolladds.
“WearemembersofWEEEIreland,and we paya contribution to them for everyproduct we bringintothe country. We continue to partnerwiththemwithadvertisingcampaigns
Ourapproach to youthpreventionissimple. We donotsell,advertiseormarketour products to anyonethatisnotanadult
“Last year, we alsopartneredwith Applegreenonthe roll-outof vape recycling binsacrossthe extensivenetworkof ApplegreenlocationsinIreland,andahigh numberof BWG FoodsandMusgrave stores have agreed to dosoas well.WEEEIreland installand regularly collectthesebinswhen full. We want to further expandthis work through2025.”
“AtHale Vaping we have always been proactiveonage verification,and we operate a robust‘Challenge21’approachacrossour own storesandour retailtrade customersare similarlyvigilant. Thedefaultpositionisthat documentaryproofofageis requiredif a customerlooksanywhereclose to 21 yearsof age. Thishelpsusensurethat we donotsell vapingproducts to anyoneunder18,”he states.
“Last year we installedtheautomated ‘MyCheckr’ageestimation toolfrom Innovative TechnologyintoHale stores. The MyCheckr systemaddsafurtherlayerof protectionandhelps streamlinetheage verificationprocess.Itisautomaticand providesaninstant confirmationif a customeris over25 yearsofageor,ifunder 25,thatadocumentaryIDcheckis required.
“TheintroductionoftheMyCheckr system intoour storesis consistentwithourmission to supportadultsmokerswho want to quit andthat vapingisonly foradults.Allofour staffhave also receivedtraining to ensureno productissold to under18s. Vapinghas helpedmanythousandsofsmokersinIreland to reducetheirsmokinghabitorquit completely.Itwillalsoplayasignificant role inachievingaSmokeFreeIreland. We are committed to promoting responsible practiceswithinthe vapingsectorand to ensuringthat vapingproductsareonlysold to adults.”
Supporting youthprevention CarrolloutlinesthemeasuresHaleistaking to support youthpreventioneffortsinlightof growing regulatory focusonunderage vaping.
“Ourapproach to youthpreventionis simple. We donotsell,advertiseormarket ourproducts to anyonethatisnotanadult. We have implemented robust systemsright acrossourbranchnetwork to ensureage verificationisalways sought,”Carroll explains. “Wearealsoactiveincampaigning to have the extensivelaws thatarealreadyinplace enforced,particularlyaroundensuringthat vapingproductsarenotbeingsold to children.Our focus remainsonadultsmokers or formersmokersthat relyon vaping to help
Ina fast-movingcategorylike vapinginnovation is key and we area consumer-focusedbusiness, bringingthelatest products to marketasthe No.1 vaping companyinIreland
themquitsmoking.Smoking remainsthe top causeofpreventabledeathandill-healthin Irelandandkillsaround5,000annually.Itis also costinghospitalservicesaround€460 millionperannum.”
“The vapingcategorymoves veryquickly, fasterthanmostthingsintheFMCGsector, andnext year we willseebrandsinthe marketthat we aren’t even aware ofnow,” notesCarroll.
“Weknowthatflavoursplaya key rolein helpingsmokersquit,so we have refreshed ourHaleProRX range,aclosedpod system. HaleProSalts10mlliquidsarea key focus for this year,alongwithournewNicotine Pouch, Peak.As vapingbehaviourchangeswiththe riseofbigpuffdisposables, we have afull pipeline ready to ensure consumers’needs aremet. Retailerscanspeak to ourdedicated Hale reps today to ensuretheyhave theright range.”
“Regulationofthesectorisneeded to ensure complianceonproducts, to support youthprevention,and to reducetheblack andgrey markets. That isanopportunity for theindustry to bepartofasmoke-free future,”Carrollsays.
To contribute to shaping fairandeffective vaping regulations,Haleactivelyengages withpolicymakersandindustrygroups.
CarrollnotesthatHalehas commissioned reportsintothebusinessimpactof regulation through ForvisMazars,andhasalsofunded consumer researchthrough RedC. The findingswillbesharedwithpolicymakers to demonstratethe realimpactofthepolicy.
“Wehave createda retailer-focused booklethighlightingthe key pointsofthese reportsandhow to voice yourviews onthe proposedrules,”he explains.“Thisis available to all retailersthroughour repsandviaemail. We arealsoamemberofthe ReducedRisk
ProductAssociation(RRPA.ie),aleading movement for responsible vapingand smoke-freenicotineproductsinIreland. The RRPAadvocates fortheneedsof independentbusinessesinIrelandwhosell anddistributetheseproducts,ensuringtheir voicesareheardinshaping fair regulations and avoidingunintendedpolicy consequences.”
Lookingahead
Lookingahead,Hale remains committed to balancinginnovationwith responsibilityand complianceinatightly regulatedspace.
“AtHale,innovationandagilityareinour DNA,and we will continue to bringthe productsthat consumersdemandwhile advocating forourindustry,ourpartners, andour customers,”Carrollhighlights.
“Asmanagingdirector, my jobis to supportthegreat workbeingdone by our retailtrade customers, to helpthem navigate a verydynamicand evolving situation. We strive to ensuretheyhave the mostup-to-date informationaround vaping andanynew regulationsbeingproposed, andthattheyunderstandhowthesewill potentiallyaffectthem. We alsoensurethat theyhave high-qualityproductsthatare fully compliantwiththelaws inIreland,and thatoffertheir customersthechoiceand valuetheylook for.”
“Well-thought-out regulationand complianceare welcomed,butengagement by governmentwiththeindustryisneeded to ensure we aremoving towardsthe smoke-freefuture-andnot to losesightof that,”Carroll concludes. ■
Commentingonhisnew role, Byrne,said:“Ihave spent my entirecareerin Tesco;Ilove this business,andIamsoproud to nowhave anopportunity to leadit.
“I’m really excitedaboutthe opportunitiesahead: we are winninginahighly competitive market; we have thebestpeople onour team,and we are deliveringunbeatable value to
our customers.
Byrnewill replaceoutgoing CEO Natasha Adams whois takingupthe roleofgroup strategy&transformationofficer on Tesco’sExecutive Committee, afterthreesuccessful yearsas CEOin TescoIreland&Northern Ireland.
Ina statement, Byrnethanked Adams forher exceptional leadership,“Ihave ahardact to follow,”hesaid.
Adamsledthebusiness throughaperiodof expansion andgrowth,withmarketshare gains for 39 consecutiveperiods andmorethan30new store openingsinthe Republicof Ireland,andan extensive store refreshprogrammeinNorthern Ireland.
Adamsadded:“Being Tesco CEOinIrelandhasbeen a privilegeandIamsoproud to
“Thanks to thehard workand expertiseofour colleagues, we have grownourbusiness by continuing to investforour customers, expandingour store estate,andimprovingouroffer for colleagues.
“Iamdelighted to passonthe baton to Geoff,whoisthebest person to leadourbusinesses intothisnextphase.”
The Coca–Cola Company announced todaythat Amruta Vaidya hasbeenappointed countrymanagerof Coca–Cola Ireland.
As countrymanagerof Coca–ColaIreland, Vaidyawillbe responsible forleadingthe growthandproductmarketing
Commentingonhernew role, Vaidya,said:“I’mthrilled to take upthe roleof countrymanager andbuildon The Coca–Cola
Company’s exceptionaltrack record ofsuccess inIreland.
“Alongwithourbottling partner, we strive to meetthe evolvingneedsofour customers whilebringing RealMagic to communitiesaroundthe country throughinnovativedigital experiencesandmeaningful connections.
Clearcast,thepre-broadcastapproval body, wenton to statethatthead’s fantasticalandcinematicpresentation madeitclearthatthedriving was “exaggeratedandnotintended to be emulated.”
Itthereforedidnotencouragepeople to breachtheHighway Code,butalso suggestedthatsafedriving wasboring to viewers.
Thisadvert reportedlyusedthe common companyofimaginative storytellingwith absurdelements to projectthemessage that“Two isMore ThanOne”anddidsoin a way that wasunlikely to beunderstood asshowing reasonabledrivingpractices, andis currentlygoingviral foritsairing.
The Food Standards Agency(FSA)has warnedpeoplewithallergiesnot to buy importedDubaichocolate iftheyhave any doubtsaboutingredientsbecauseof differentlabelling standards.
According to theFSA,someDubai chocolate barsbeingimported internationallyare filledwithharmful additivesand contaminants,includingillegal fooddyes to producethevividgreen colour, toxinsproduced by moulds,and even chemical compoundsthatmaybe
carcinogenic
The Food Standards Agency’schiefscientific advisorsaidshoppersshould stick to “trusted” retailersintheUKastheproductstheysellare morelikely to bemade forthedomesticmarket. Professor RobinMay, chiefscientificadvisor to
theFSA,spokeontheissue by stating,“The vast majorityof foodintheUKissafe, but someimportedDubai-stylechocolate productsdon’tmeetour standardsand could bea foodsafetyrisk,especially for consumerswithallergies.”
Headded:‘If youarelooking to buyDubaistylechocolate, we advise stickingwith trusted retailers,liketheones you’duse for your weeklyshop,asproductsaremorelikely to besafe to eat.
By law, productsmade to UK standards shouldhave labelsinEnglish containingthe information,includingthenameofthe food, for example,milkchocolate withpistachio paste filling,alistofingredients,with allergensemphasised,andthe weightofthe foodingrams.
Itmustalsohave abestbeforeoruse by date andthenameandaddressoftheUKor EUbusiness responsible fortheproduct information.
Dubaichocolate hasbecomeincredibly popularandhas recentlybeenfueled by onlineinfluencersthroughplatformslike Instagramand TikTok. ■
Fueling sales
Ireland’sforecourtretailersare
settingahighstandardonthe globalstage,writes
RyanBrennan
Modern forecourtshave transformedinto retail destinationsintheir ownright,offering fast, fresh,andfunctionaloptions forpeopleonthe go.Frompremiumsnacks to grab-and-godrinksand everydayessentials, convenienceisking.
Ireland’s forecourt retailersaresettingahigh standardontheglobal stage, combiningefficiencywith exceptionalqualityand customerservice. From familyrunoperations to majornationalchains, forecourts acrossthe countryare redefiningwhat consumers expectfrom convenience retail. Withan eyeon sustainability, technology,andlocallysourcedproducts, they’vemanaged to create spacesthat feelboth welcomingandfuture focused. Whetherit’s abaristaquality coffee,artisansandwich,orafullmeal-to-go, these retailersare consistentlydelivering excellence. Theiradaptabilityandinnovation continue to position themasvitalhubsin communitiesnationwide.
Applegreen to launch Taco BellinIreland
Applegreen is to openIreland’s first Taco Bell Mexican-inspired restaurant followinganew partnershipagreementwiththeUS-based company.
ApplegreenwillopenIreland’s first Taco Bell restaurantthissummerandplans to open Taco Belloutlets at anumberofitsIrish locations overthenext fiveyears.
“Weare really excited to announcethis partnership to launchtheiconic Taco Bell brandinIreland,”saidSeamus Stapleton, managingdirectorofApplegreen’s Republic ofIrelandbusiness.
“Thispartnershipunderscoresour commitment to bringing world-class roadside hospitality to our customers,offeringthem greaterchoiceandqualitywhiletheytravel.
We are constantlyinvestinginourlocations, andI’msureIrish consumerswillbe very excited at thearrivalof Taco Bell.”
Taco Bell,whichisbasedinIrvine,California,
has over8,700 restaurants worldwide.Known foritscraveableandboldMexican-inspired flavours, Taco Bell’smenuoffersa varietyof deliciousproductsanduniquetastes.
Consumer favouritesincludethe famous Crunchy Taco plusBurritos,Quesadillas, Nachos,andtheiconicCrunchwrapSupreme
Applegreen
to enhanceits partnershipwithM&S
Irish roadsidehospitalitybrandApplegreen willenhanceitspartnershipwithMarks & Spencer by opening20newM&S Food stores by March2026.
The expansion representsasubstantial investmentandwillbringthe totalnumberof M&S Food storesoperated by Applegreen to 41 by theendof2025,withambitions to increasethis figure to 60inthemedium term.
Theinitiativewillintroducemorethan400 M&S Foodproducts at eachnewlocation, expandingApplegreen’sofferingsand improving convenience for customers.
The rollouthasalready commenced,with the firstoutletlaunchedinEnnis at Applegreen’sLimerick Roadsitein February 2025.
ApplegreenM&SoperationsheadMark Ryan stated:“OurpartnershipwithM&Shas been working really well overthepasttwo years,and we’redelighted to bebringingM&S Food at Applegreen to 20additional locationsthis year.
TacoBell
ApplegreenandM&S
Innovatingfoodretailthroughsustainability
Lorraine Brophy
LorraineBrophy, chiefoperationsofficer,Maxol &with A
Q:Howare you continuing to innovate within your foodoffering to provide consumerswithgreater variety,meettheir evolvingneeds,andalignwith thelatest foodtrends?
A: To continueinnovatingwithin foodofferingsand meet evolving consumerneeds,thereareseveral strategies we are considering.Firstly, weregularly gatherinsightsfrom consumersthroughsurveys, focusgroups,andsocialmedia to helpidentify emergingtrendsandpreferences.
We feelthat by continuing to developour convenient mealsolutions by takingallthe examplesabove intoconsideration, we canmeettheneedsofbusy consumerslooking forquickandeasydiningoptions that keepupwithmarket trends.
Q: What keychangesoremerging foodtrendsdo youanticipate shapingthe food retailsectorin 2024?
A: As we look toward 2025,thereisasignificant numberofchangesemergingin foodtrendsas well asthe overall retail experience.
Imentionedsustainabilitybeingoneofthe key innovationareasandthisisbecausesustainability isbecominganon-negotiableaspectof food retail. Brands/supplierswillbe expected to adoptcircular economypractices, focusingon reducing waste, usingbiodegradablepackaging,andimplementing carbon-neutralsupplychains.Ourcustomers aredemandingtransparency regardingthe environmentalimpactoftheirpurchases. Theuseof AIanddataanalyticsis exciting,anditwillenableus to offerhighlypersonalisedshopping experiences. Inthefuturecustomershave indicatedthatthey wouldlike to beable to receivetailoredproduct
We are committed to reviewingandinvestinginto oursustainabilityagenda to enhanceour reputation andmakeourbusinessmore attractive to customers, retailersandemployees,and tocontribute to the long-termhealthoftheenvironment,ensuringthat resourcesare available forfuturegenerations.
Onthe forecourt, we offerPremium Fuels at approximately 45 ofourservice stationsandthrough apartnershipwithPDI technologies,100%ofthis fueliscarbonoffset. Additionally, we launched Maxol hvoPROin2024 to selectsitesandthisdiesel replacement reducescarbonemissions by up to 90%.
Fromaninstore perspective, someinitiatives we are looking at arepartneringwithsupplierswhosource organic,local,and fair-tradeproducts to bring qualityproductsandbrands to our communities. We planonimplementing systems to minimise food waste, suchasdonatingunsold food to local
charitiesandarecurrentlytriallingthisinsomeofour NorthernIrishshops. We will workwithoursuppliers to transition to biodegradable, recyclable,or reusable packagingmaterials to reduceplastic wasteand environmentalimpact.
In storesthat we are redeveloping, we have and continue to invest inenergyefficient technologies, suchasLEDlighting,energy-efficient refrigeration, and renewableenergysourcessuchassolarpower. We have alreadyimplemented watersaving technologiesandpracticesinoperations,and we willlook to into moreofoursitesthatcancarryout rainwaterharvestingandefficientirrigation systems. And really at theheartofit,isinvolvingourpeople inthesustainabilityinitiativesthroughtraining, awarenessprogrammes,andencouraging everyone tocontributeideas forimprovement.
Q: What stepsare youtaking to ensure strong value forcustomersbothin-store and at thefuelpumps?
A: To dothis we regularly reviewandadjustprices to remain competitivewhileofferinginstore promotionsanddiscounts to loyalcustomers. We continue to ensureawideselectionofhigh-quality products,includingfreshproduce, andlocalgoods, are available to meettheneedsofdiversecustomer preferences. We update ourin-store promotionsona 3-weekly cycleandtheseincludebuy-one-get-onefreeoffersordiscountsonpopularitems, to attract customers.
In relation to fuel, we monitorlocalfuelprices to ensure competitive rates,potentiallyofferingprice matchingor reducedpricing strategies. We offer high-qualityfueloptions,includingMaxolPremium FuelsandMaxol RechargeEV-Charginghubs to cater to differentcustomerneeds. We providemultiple paymentoptions,includingmobilepaymentsand contactlesstransactions, foraseamlessfuelling experience.
Ultimately by focusingonmaintainingcleanand accessible forecourtswitha strong retail convenience offering,ourbusinesswill continue to grow, and strengthenour strong valueproposition for customers,enhancingtheir overall experienceboth in-store and at thefuelpumps.
Q: What are yourplans forfurtherdevelopingand expanding yourelectric vehiclecharging facilities?
A: Expandinganddevelopingelectric vehicle(EV) charging facilitiesisacrucialelementofour strategy forsupportingthegrowingdemand forelectric vehiclesandpromotingsustainabletransportation. We regularly conductassessments to identify strategiclocations fornewcharging stations. This doeshowever requiresignificantinvestmentwhen
upgradingcurrentcharginginfrastructure to accommodate fasterchargingoptionsandmore vehicles.Inthefuture, thiswillhelp to reduce wait timesandimprove accessibility forEVusers. We workwithlocalgovernmentsagencies to securegrantsorfunding for expandingcharging infrastructure. Anditisimportant to us to design charging stationswithscalabilityinmind,allowing foreasyupgradesas technologyadvancesand demandincreases.
Q: What arethemain factorsthat contribute to a positivecustomer experience at yoursites,and howdoes your storedesignsupportthis?
A: Creatingapositivecustomer experience at our retailsitesinvolvesseveral key factors,and store designplays acrucial roleinsupportingthese elements. We useclearandvisiblesignage to guide customers to entrances, exits,and key areaswithin the store. Thishelps reduce confusionandenhances navigation.
Ourintuitivelayoutminimises congestionand allows foreasymovement to significantlyimprove theshopping experience. Ouruseof warm,inviting lightingand comfortable colours,create apleasant atmosphere. Andwherepossible we usenatural light to improve theshopping experience. We also incorporateseatingareaswherecustomerscan relax. We havevery experiencedlicensees/retailersin eachofoursites,andtheyhave well-trained staff whoareknowledgeableandapproachable to supportourcustomers to have anall-roundgreat shopping experience.
Q:Inwhat ways haveyouembraceddigital innovation to enhance convenienceandservice for yourcustomers?
A: Thereareseveralthings we have alreadydone to embrace technology;however, we’ll continue to evolveinthisareaas technologydoesn’t stand still. InApril2022 we launchedaloyaltyappthatcan beusedacrossour company ownednetworkinthe RepublicofIreland. This rewardscustomersthrough ourROSA Coffeeand washschemesandourapp memberscanalsogetaccess to exclusiveinstore discountsonhouseholdbrands.Customerscan alsopay forfuelthroughtheapp,whichisagreat solution forourtimepoorcustomers.Ourengine oil finderisalsoauseful tool to helpourcustomers. We’veintroducedgamificationonourappandthis hasbeenasuccessful way to surpriseanddelight our valuedappmembers.
Instore we have installeddigitalscreensacross ourMaxolDelisandROSA Coffeeunits,greatly enhancingtheshopper experience.
We will continue to look at in-store technology forourtill systemandpricingmodels, to ensure themost convenientsolutionisprovided to the customer.
Q:Inoneparagraph,how would yousummarise your keypointofdifferencefrom competitorsinthe market?
A: Our key pointofdifferenceliesinourunwavering commitment to delivering exceptionalservicethrough ourpeople. By collaboratingwithlocal retailersand their store teams, we ensurethatourofferingsarenot only relevant butdeeply rootedinthe communities we serve. Additionally,our focusison convenience, innovation,sustainability, communitypartnerships andqualityproduce,to enhancecustomersatisfaction andultimatelysetusapartfromour competitors,asa leaderinourindustry.
“WeknowthatIrish consumerslove their coffee–andthatdrinkslikematchaandiced lattesaremorepopularthan ever.”
To find yournearestCircleK store, visit circlek.ie. Formoreinformation,visitCircle K Irelandon Facebook,or@circlekirelandon X andInstagram.
Understandingtheunique forecourtshopper
“ShopperIntelligencelooks at someofthe key metrics/behavioursthatmakeshoppersof eachchannel standout.Shownhereisthe‘ForecourtShopperProfile’–andwhatmakes thisshopperunique vs Grocery,Discounterand ConvenienceChannels.Doesthishighlight anyspecificopportunities for yourbrand/category?”
Forecourts ranks #3 of the4channelsin termsof overallshoppersatisfaction.The Forecourts shopperismost likely to be onan immediate usemission and to be buying for others: butthey’re also themost open to spending time browsing /open to spendingmore to try “newanddifferent”.
To celebratethelaunchoftheirEnergy Balls, TheHappy Pearwillbepoppingup at differentsaunasacrossthe countryeach Saturdaythismonth. They willbeoffering freesaunaslotsandenergyballs to attendees foraninvigoratingSaturday activity.
Pickupthebrandnewenergyballs at SuperValuand Centra storesnationwide,and head to @thehappypearfoodson TikTok to seehow youcan redeemaslot at oneof theirsaunatakeovers!
Glutenfreeporridge to go
Localproducer, JustLiveaLittle,have expandedtheirbreakfastofferingwiththe launchoftwogluten-freeporridgepots. Designed foratastier,healthierbreakfast, theyaretheperfectsolutionwhether you are at home, at workoronthego
Thenewporridgepotsgluten-free,withno
At the core of The Foodsof Athenry isadedicated farm family withadeeppassion forcreatingwholesome,delicious foodgluten-free, vegan,andtraditional-thatthey’reproud to serve at their owntable.Likemany farming families,theyblendnecessity withheritage,usingtime-honoured recipespasseddownthrough generations.Eachproductismadefromscratchusingoriginal recipesandonlythe finest,high-qualityingredients.
SiobhanLawless, founder&managingdirector,said:“Ourmission is to deliverpremium,clean-labelproductsthatpromoteahealthier way ofliving.
“Youcantrustthat everything we offerisentirelyfreefrom artificial colours, flavours, sweeteners,preservatives,GMOs,and hydrogenated fats.”
refinedsugar,suitable for vegansandpromote goodguthealth.
Thenew range comeintwodelicious flavours;Maple Syrup,andApple&Cinnamon. Packedinbrandedshelf readypackaging (8x60g)thepotsare100% recyclable,inline withthebrand’ssustainabilitypolicy.
JustLiveaLittleGluten-freeporridgepots are available to ordernow at anRRSPof €1.50 for60g. www.justlivealittle.com hello@justlivealittle.com
Fromwholesome cerealsandsodabreadcracker toasts to bars, cookies,shortbread,cakes,andadeliciousselectionofseasonal Christmastreats,there’s something to delight everymemberofthe family. Whether you’re grabbingaquicksnack onthegoorlooking for atwice-bakedgourmet sodabread toast to elevate yournext cheeseboard, The Foods of Athenryhas you covered. Theirproducts are availablenationwide in Tesco, Dunnes Stores, SuperValu,independent retailers,andonline at foodsofathenry.ie
ElevatingqualityintheIrishFree-From market
GalbertsGlutenFree Puff Pastry –ahighquality, ready rolledchilled pastrysheetthatdeliverstheindulgent flakinessoftraditionalpuff pastry,withoutthegluten.Asoneof Galbertsmosthighlysought afterproducts by consumers,thisGlutenFree Puff Pastryisamust have foranyone followingaGlutenFreediet.
According to the CoeliacSocietyofIrelandthereareanestimated 400,000peopleinIrelandwithsome formofglutenintolerance, demand forGlutenFreeproductshasneverbeen stronger.However, theglutenfreecategory extendsbeyondmedicalneeds,withmany consumersopting forglutenfreeproductsasalifestyleorhealth choice.
The ready rolledpuffpastrysheetis extremely versatile–perfect forawide rangeofhomemadedinnersanddesserts. WhereGluten Free consumers findtheirshop restricted to thelimited rangeof GlutenFreeproducts availableonshelves,thispastryenablesthem to create awhole rangeof family favouriteswithnofussandgreat taste! Perfect forsausage rolls,croissants,pies,tartsandmuchmore!
GalbertsGlutenFree Pastryissuitable for coeliacs, vegansand vegetarians.Itisallergensafeandpackedinaprotective atmosphere to preservefreshnessand extendshelflife–awin for retailersand consumersalike.
AvailableinselectedDunnes,Supervalu, TescoandSpar/Eurospar storesacrossIreland.Findoutmoreabout Galbertsfullproduct range at www.galberts.com
At WindmillOrganics we believe that food shouldbegreat for youandtheplanet. We have anumberofdifferentbrandsinour portfolio,includingBiona (ourlargestbrand), Profusion,Amisa,RAW, andmore. Allofwhich containproductswhichare vegetarianor veganand certifiedorganic;withoutanynasty pesticides, stabilisersorchemicals.”
OurAmisabrand wasbornfromthebelief that foodshouldalways bedelicious,andcan be foundin storessuchasSuperValu,as well asmanyhealth food retailers. We’ve welcomedthe‘free-from’movementwith openarms,butwhyshould‘free-from’mean foodsthatarelacking? Regardlessofallergies, intolerances,dietarypreferences, flavour shouldalways be at theheartofwhat we eat, and’free-from’ foodshouldbenodifferent. We source thebest-quality,organic,ethical ingredients forourproducts. Veryoften,‘free from’ foodsusetraditionalingredients,simply processingoutthegluten,but we don’ttake thatapproach.Instead, we useingredients thatarenaturallyglutenfree,and combine theminclever recipes to create satisfying, exciting food.”
Oneofthebest-sellingproductsinthe rangeisourAmisaOrganic Pure Wholegrain Oatswhichare reassuringlybatch tested for glutenusingtheELISAmethod. Whether
enjoyedinabowlof warmingporridge,orin deliciousbakes;oatsprovideagreatsource ofsoluble fibreand keep you feelingfull for longer. They arealsopackedinfully recyclablepaperpackagingandhave won a Great Taste Award!OurAmisabreakfast cereal rangealsoincludesAppleCinnamon oats, Fourgrain PorridgeandFruityOat Muesli-all certifiedorganicandbatch tested forgluten.
Freefrom,fullofflavour
Asdemandgrows for convenient yetcleanlabel foodoptions, PizzadaPiero continues to standoutonshelfwithitsmulti-awardwinningsourdoughpizzabases.Proudly madefreshdailyinRathcoole, Co.Dublin usingjustsixsimpleingredients(Italian00 wheat flour, toastedGMfreesoya flour, extra virginoliveoil, yeast,seasalt,and filtered water.)
If you Keogh, youknow!
Family-runandIrish-owned,PizzadaPiero was founded by Italian-bornPieroDe Vallier andhisDublinwifeCliona Swan. Every stone bakedbaseisfreefrompreservatives, additives,anddairy,makingitideal forhealthconscious consumersandthoseseeking“Free From”solutionswithout compromisingon taste orquality.
ProudlyIrishand family-farmed forgenerations, Keogh’s continue to delivertheauthenticIrishtasteconsumersknowandlove with quality at the forefrontoftheirCrisps& Popcorn range
Craftedinsmallbatchesontheir farm, Keogh’sselectonlythebest potatoes,pairedwiththe finestqualityofhigholeicsunfloweroil. Eachbatchdemonstratestheirdedication to localsourcing,as ingredientsarecarefullyselectedfromlocalIrishsuppliers. Their unwaveringpassionhasseen Keogh’sCrispsgrowingeighttimes aheadofthemarket*.
Keogh’s Popcorngoesfrom strength to strength continuing to be
Gin continues to reignasa top-tierspirit, with consumersdrawn to itsbotanical complexityand versatility.Fromcitrusy summerpours to artisanalsmall-batch infusions,ginoffersapremiumedgethat excitesboth connoisseursandcasualsippers.
According to DrinksIreland overthepast ten years,Irishginhas evolvedfromaniche productintoavitalsegmentofthenational drinksindustry,increasingitsshareofthe spiritsmarketinIrelandfrom5% to an impressive13%.Fromamodestbeginningwith onlyahandfulofdistilleries,Irelandnow boastsnearly50 world-classgindistilleries spreadacrossits32 counties. Thissustained growthhassolidifiedIrishgin’s reputationas a globalleaderinqualityandauthenticity.
Nestledinthe WicklowMountains, GlendaloughDistillery standsproudlyamong globalindustrygiants,withhands-on production,seasonal foraging,andthoughtful distillationthatcantruly standapartonthe world stage.It was recentlynamed‘Distillery ofthe Year’ forthe fourth consecutive year at theNew YorkInternationalSpirits Competition intheUS.
Eachbatchofits WildBotanicalGintakes nearlya year to make, shaped by therhythm ofthe Wicklowseasons.Botanicalsarehandforaged by Glendalough’sfulltime forager, Geraldine Kavanagh,distilledfreshandslowly insmall copperpot stills,capturingthewild, naturalessenceofthelandscapein every drop.GlendaloughDistillery combinescraft, care, andcreativityin everythingtheydo includingtheir WildBotanicalGinwhich was awardedgold at the recent awards. ThewildnativebotanicalsthatGeraldine pickseachdayarequicklytransported to the distillerywheretheyarepainstakinglyslowdistilled toteaseoutdelicate flavours,in very
DavidBoyd ArmstrongofRademonEstate DistilleryandchairofDrinksIreland|Spirits, stated:“TheginindustryinIrelandhas flourishedinthelast ten years. Throughthe
smallbatchesoflessthan250litres. The cutpointsaredecidedbatch by batch, by smell andtaste (nevertimedorautomated)asif eachbatchisthe first.
RRP€45 for WildBotanicaland Wild Rose Gin.
hard workoftheproducersandthepremium qualityofIrishgin,its reputationhasgrown worldwide.
Nowisthetime for retailers to supportthe growingdemand forpremium,locallycrafted spirits by stockingadiverse rangeofIrishgins that reflecttherichheritageandinnovationof ourhomegrownproducers.
unique combinationofbotanicalsinour small-batchclassicdrygin,whilethe touchof gingeraddsagentle warmth–creating a standout combinationthat’sdelicious,”says AliPickering,chiefmarketingofficer at DKG.
“OurJawboxdistillerysitsona300-acre countryestate datingback to the16th century,where we grow thegrainusedin Jawbox,”addsPickering.
Available to on-andoff-trade retailersand wholesalers at anRRPof£25.50,Jawbox Apple&Gingeristargeted at 28-55 year-old urbangindrinkerswhoaresociable,hard working,andwilling to tradeup forquality JawboxApple&GingerGinLiqueurjoins thebrand’s existing award-winningportfolio includingJawboxSmallBatchClassicDryGin, JawboxExport StrengthGin,Jawbox Pineapple&GingerGinLiqueurandJawbox Rhubarb&GingerLiqueur.
MinkeIrishGin:Aspiritborn oflandandsea
ClonakiltyDistillery’sMinkeIrishGin stands apartinthe worldofgin-notjustin story, butinsubstance. Distilledfromawhey-based spirit ratherthanthemore commongrainor potato ethanolbases,itoffersarich,creamy mouthfeelthat’sasdistinctiveasitsorigin. Thewheyitselfistraceableback to theScully familydairy farminClonakilty,Ireland- a property farmed by thesame family for over 350 yearsandninegenerations.
That commitment to provenance continues withthegin’ssignaturebotanical: rock
samphire. This coastalplantgrowsjustabove tidelinealongthe AtlanticcliffsofClonakilty andishand-foraged by thedistillery team eachseason,often by kayakorcliff-scaling. Theharvestisdonesustainably to ensurethe plant regeneratesnaturally forthe following year
MinkeIrishGiniscitrus-forwardand vibrant-perfect forabrightG&T- yet refined forsippingneatormixingintospiritforward cocktails.Unlikemanymoderngins, thejuniperis keptinbalance, allowinglighter botanicals to shine. Theinclusionof rock samphirelendsasubtlesalinityand a whisperofaniseedonthe finish, evokingthe coastal terroirfromwhichitcame
XinGinfromAhascragh Distillery, Co. Galway
NestledinatinyIrishvillageofEast County Galway,AhascraghDistillery wasoncean early19th-centurymill. Reclaimedand reimagined by Michelleand Gareth McAllister, itisnowIreland’s first zeroemissionsdistilleryandhome to the awardwinningClan Collaand UAISwhiskeys,and itsmuch-loved,multi-award-winning XinGin Sinceitslaunch, XinGin(43%ABV)has garnerednationalandinternationalacclaim. Most recently,it tookhomegoldinboth theClassicGinand Country(Ireland) categories at the2025 WorldGin Awards. Thesejoinanimpressivelistofaccolades, includingdoublegold at the2024 San Francisco WorldSpirits Competitionand
Fromorchard to award-winninggin
Inspired by their familyappleorchards, motheranddaughterduo,MarieandSally Anne Cooneysetout to create aginthat reflectstheenvironmentaroundthem.
Usingsignaturebotanicalshand-foraged fromtheorchards,includingappleblossom fromthetrees,elderflowerandhawthorn blossomfromthehedgerowsandhoney fromsevenbeehivescarefully tended to by MarieandSallyAnne,SilksGinhasafresh,
floral-forwardcharacterwitha realsenseof place.
Steepingthebotanicals foradaybefore distillationensuresthatSilksIrishDryGinis fresh,brightandbalanced.A vapourinfusion chamberisused forthemoresubtle, underlying flavoursofoursignatureIrish orchardbotanicals.SilksIrishDryGinis distilledinsmallbatchesina custom copper pot still at BoannDistillery by an expert
“BestinIreland” at TheGinGuide Awards for three consecutive years.
Theinspiration for XinGinbeganwhilethe McAllisters were livinginAsia,theirhome for over fiveyears.Michelle waspassionate about creatingaginthathonouredboththeir worlds—Eastand West The resultisavibrant fusionof flavourwhereintraditionaljuniper andcitrus zest iselevated by exoticbotanicals suchaslemongrass,pineappleandthegin’s signaturepersimmon,afruit symbolisinggood luckandeternallove inAsian culture. More information:info@ahascraghdistillery.com
distilling team,who wererecentlynamed the topproduction teamanddistilleryof the year at theIconsof Whisky Awards Ireland.SilksIrishDryGin wasnamed Ireland’sbest LondonDryGin at the World Gin Awards2025.
Asasustainabledistillery,Boannisan OriginGreenGoldMember,andensuresall rawingredientsare100%naturaland100% local.FindoutmoreaboutSilksIrishDry Gin at boanndistillery.ie ■
Modern consumersarelooking for convenience, flavour,andwholesome ingredients-andthehealthy ready mealscategoryis expanding to deliveronall fronts. Whetherplant-based,high-protein,or calorie-conscious,thesemealsarechanging perceptionsof convenience food.Here ShelfLife willshowcasethebrandsmaking healthsimple,delicious,andaccessible for time-pressedshoppers.
According to a recent report by Statista, ‘Ready-to-EatMeals’marketinIrelandis projected to reachabout€480million by 2029.
Consumersprioritise conveniencewithout sacrificingnutritional value,looking for optionsthatsupporttheirdietarychoices andmakemealpreparationeffortless.
The researchindicatesthatinIreland,the
Fit Foods: Real food. Real fast.No compromise
At Fit Foods,itisnothere to playitsafe, itis here to raisethebar.Bornfromits family-run butchersandlaunchedinto retailin2020,the brandhasquicklygrown to becomeIreland’s No.1 readymealbrand. Why? Becauseithas ‘donewhatothershaven’t:madehealthy food thatactuallytastesgreatand fits reallife’.
Today’sshoppers wantitall:speed,taste andnutrition.Andtheythinktheyshould expectit. That’s why everyFit Foodsmealis built to deliveronhighprotein,low fat,and bold flavourwithoutthefuss.Ithasmade everyday food for everydaypeopledoing theirbest. Whetherit’s Fit FoodsSalt&Chilli Chicken,CheeseburgerFries,orChickenCurry,
InIreland,the Ready-to-EatMeals eCommerce marketisinfluenced by arich culinaryheritagethatemphasisesfresh, locallysourcedingredients.
everything we doisgroundedin convenience without compromise
The Statista reportindicatesthatIreland’s country’s strongagriculturalsectorsupports agrowingdemand fororganicandseasonal mealoptions,aligningwith consumers’desire forsustainability.
Nowistheidealmoment for retailers to presenttheirproductsasthe topchoice for consumerslooking for convenientand nutritious readymeals.
withfull controlfromsourceto shelf,and a 99%+servicelevelthat retailerscan relyon. Itsmissionissimple,‘to fitgreat-tasting, healthier foodinto everydaylife. No fads.Just mealsthat workhard,so consumersdon’t have to thinktwice’.
“We’renotjustabout fitness- we’reFit for Life,”says CEOBrianO’Leary.“Frombusy professionals to active families, we’rehelping peopleeat well,livebetter,andnot wastetime doingit.”
Fit Foodshastransformedthe readymeal aislerisingabove theold “cleaneating,protein fuelled”clichésandintosomethingmuch more exciting: everydayhealththat’stasty, satisfying,andactuallysustainable.Ithas rebalancedacategorylongdominated by privatelabel,drawnina younger,more affluentshopper,andunlockedneweating occasionslikelunch.
Fit Foodshasdoneit by stayingtrue to who itiswhichisa familybusinessbuiltontrust,
Healthy, delicious,and convenient
Oishii Foods Ltd isanIrish food company basedinDublin,specializinginpremiumsushi and ready-to-eatmeals. The company’s missionis to provide consumerswithhealthy, delicious,and convenientmealoptionsthat cater totoday’s fast-pacedlifestyle. With a focusoninnovationandsustainability,Oishiiis committed to deliveringthehighestquality products to itsgrowing customerbase
Freshpasta, realflavour, zero compromise
At Carroll’sof Tullamore, we believe great food startswiththebestofingredients-and thatincludesfreshpasta.Our readymeal
Across our150orsometrics,if we justlook at whatisimportant to Chilled ReadyMeals shoppers vs howsatisfiedshoppersareonthosepriorities– we canseethat‘healthy choices’isaprioritythatisalsoperforming well,according to shoppersofthiscategory Similarly,innovation/NPDand ‘enjoyshoppingthecategory’ fallintothisquadrant.Good alignmentherewithshopper expectations. The watch-outs fortheChilled ReadyMeals categoryareinthe topleftquadrant:somepricemetricsas wellasqualityand range Thesearecategoryprioritiesthatare currentlynotbeingmet–isthereanopportunity here to dialtheseup to satisfyshoppers/drivegrowth?
• Salmon Tagliatelle: Delicate salmonin a whitewineandleeksaucepoured over freshtagliatelle.
MindfulIrishmademeals
CleanCutMeals arethemoremindfulIrish mademeals, availableinselectedSuperValu and Centra storesnationwide, currentlyon offer for2 for €12. Thehigh-proteinmeals have qualityingredientsandaremadewith nutritioninmind.
CleanCutMealshave a rangeof12Irish mademeals,includingthe followingthat were launchedinMarch2025: Butter Chicken WithPilauRice, CottagePie With IrishBeef, VeggieBolognese With Spaghetti and Beef Taco Wedges With IrishBeef.Designed forthosewho want somethingquick,tasty,andnutritious.
CleanCutMeals commitment to qualityis evidenced by itsinnovativepackagingthat locksin flavourandfreshness. Their steam technology cooksthemeals to perfectionin minutes.Nopiercingor stabbing required, just remove the recyclablesleeve and stick thetray inthemicrowave foraquick fix feast.CleanCutMeals continues to evolvebringingquickandnutritiousmeals to more people,withnoprepandnofuss.Just remove thesleeve,heatinminutes,and enjoy. Theentire rangeofCleanCutMeals are availableinselectedSuperValuand Centra storesnationwide. The rangenow alsoincludeshighinproteingranola yogurts,pancakesandsoups.
Itis firstmaturedintraditional ex-Bourbonbarrelsbeforebeingcarefully finishedin Bordeaux redwinecasks,the firstfromthedistillery’s FamilyBondseries to have this finish.
“WeareincrediblyproudofClan Colla 9,”says GarethMcAllister, founderandCEO at AhascraghDistillery.
“ThisIrishwhiskey showcasesour continued commitment to qualityandinnovation, withtheBordeauxcask finishintroducingawholenewlayerof complexityand elegance.”
to ensureacrisp, refreshingtaste which hastheperfect blendofbitter sweet applenotesandisprovingpopular amongst youngerciderdrinkers.
OutciderAppleCider10x440mlcans
Thenewcans comein4x440mland 10x440mlpacksandwillbe available acrossmajor retailersincluding Tesco, Dunnes,Supervalu, Centu,CircleK, Eurospar,Spar, LondisandMaceas well asoff-licensesinthe coming weeks.
Outcideroffersa refreshingtakeon traditionalciderwithafreshandintense apple flavour. Theciderisdouble filtered
WKDlaunchesnewCherryIceflavour
WKD issettingthe tone forasummerof flavourwiththelaunchofWKDCherryIce, thelatest addition to itsiconicline-up CherryIceiscrafted to deliverauniqueand refreshingcherry experience, allwiththatsignature WKDtwist.
Inspired by the explosivegrowthofcherry flavoursacrosssoftdrinks,spiritsand RTDs,WKDCherry Icebringsafrosty,fruity flavourthatisdesigned to resonate withthe core 18 to 24-year-oldtarget audience.
WKDCherryIcewillbe availablein 70clbottles (standardandprice-markedpacks) andin330ml cans,whichwillalso featureinWKD’spopularmixed10-pack format. ScottBell,headofmarketing at SHSDrinks,said:“CherryIceisWKD at itsbest–fun,boldandfull of flavour. Withcherrytrending stronglyacrosscategories, we have createdsomething cooland excitingthat we knowWKD fans,andfuture fans,willlove.Itistheperfectlaunch forsummer.” ■
MarioIlha,ChannelMarketingmanager forOutcider, commented:“Withsummer and festivalseasonaroundthe corneritis fantastic to have twonewpack formatsin severalleading storesthroughoutIreland. Outcider continues to perform really well hereso to beable to give consumers a greaterchoiceisimportant to us, especiallyintime forsummer.”
Q: Congratulationsonwinning SpiritSpecialistofthe Year 2025!Whatdoesthis award mean to youandthe team at Mitchell&SoninGlasthule?
A: Forthis award to beachieved inthe220th yearsinceour foundingin1805is veryspecial indeedandthe factthat we are stillanindependent family companyissomethingofwhich we are veryproud.
Q:Whatdo youthinksets your Glasthuleoff-licenceapartfrom othersinIrelandwhenit comes to spirits?
A: Our rangeofspiritsis very eclecticand we endeavour to supportasmanyIrishproduced spiritsasspaceallows
Q:Can you tellusaboutany products,brands,orcustomer experiencesthat contributed to winningthis award?
A: We always allowmaximum exposure forourSpotwhiskey rangeandofferSpottastings,in a formalandinformalsetting andourmanagingdirector RobertMitchell(7thgeneration ofMitchell&Son)and store manager Kamil Levendowskiare usuallyonhand to explainthe historyandoriginsoftheSpot whiskeyrange,whichisalso celebratingit’s 100thanniversary this yearsincethe firstSpot whiskies were firstmaturedin ourunique cellarsinDublin 2
Q:Howhascustomerinterestin spirits evolvedin recent years, andhowhaveyouadapted your offeringin response?
A: Probablythemost consistent trendinourtwoshops (Glasthule,andournew store openedjustbeforeChristmasin Harcourt Street)hasbeen for fineIrish Whiskies away from regularbrands.Andthesame wouldapply to Scotch Whisky whereSingleMaltshave sparked moreinterestthanblends.
There wasabriefupliftin whitespirits overthelast few years (gin& vodka)especially
Irishproducedbutagain,sales arepretty stagnant currently Thereisa revivalinRumsales andpre-mixed cocktails.
A: Ourchallengesaresimilar to mostofour competitors,with rising costs, keepingupwith salary expectationsetc.,but beingmembersofNOffLAhas beenofgreat comfortandthe support we receivefromNOffLA hasbeeninvaluable.Of course thenewlegislationonlabelling, due tocomeintoeffectinMay ‘26isgoing to anightmareandin ourviewis completely overthe topandshouldbemodifiedwhile at thesametime,be aware thatirresponsibledrinkingisand willalways willbeunacceptable
Q: Lookingahead,howdo you plan to buildonthissuccess and continueinnovatinginthe world ofspirits retail?
A: We will continue to buildon what we currentlyoffer to customersandtryandwinthe award againnext year!
Q:Isthereanythingelse you’d like to add?
A: Nothingelseoccurs,but to thankthejudges fortheir painstaking workinseeking excellenceintheNOffLA family ofoff-licencesaroundthe country, and to acknowledgetheenthusiasm andefficiencyofour wonderful staffintheGlasthuleshop.
Thefuturedevelopmentofthe Associationwilldependonthe involvementofthe Councilwho were elected at the AGM.Itis fromthesemembersthatthe Association’sExecutive(whodo muchofthelegworkofthe Association)is formed.In addition to shaping your organisationandhavingan impactonthefutureofthis industry, yourparticipationon Councilhasbenefits too. As Councilmembersgather to discussandplan,theyallgain fromthe exchangeofideasfrom membersaroundthe country Someoneelsehasencountered
theproblems you’retrying to resolve. Anotherindependent off-licenseehas consideredthe plans youare weighingup presently.Insharingthat knowledgeand experience, the tradeimprovesandso toodo theindividualsinvolved.NOffLA is yourAssociation.Itcan influence yourfuture. Make your voice count-getinvolved! Pleasenotethatnomemberof CouncilorExecutivebenefits financiallyfromNOffLA. Financialaccountsareprepared onanannualbasisandare subject to anaudit by a qualifiedaccountant.
CouncilMembers2025-2026
1. BARRYJim BarryGroup, UpperQuarterstown,Mallow, Co Cork Munster
2. BOYLEJudith Boyle’sOff-LicenceKildare Leinster
3. CULLEN Tommy Jusde Vine, PortmarnockS.C., Co.Dublin Dublin
4. DUNNE Peter Mitchell&Son(The Vaults), StationBuilding,Harcourt Street,D2
5. JONES Evelyn The VintryRathgar,Dublin6
Dublin
Dublin
6. KELLER Pat Keller’s CarryOutOff-LicenceNenagh, Co Tipperary Munster
7. KELLYJohn Number21, Cork Munster
8. MOLLOY Richard TheMolloyGroup,Dublin
Dublin
9. MONAGHANPhyllis The CoachHouseOff-LicenceBallinteer,Dublin16 Dublin
Buthere’sthetwist:onlyonecan stay The flavourwiththemost votes at theendofthecampaignwins.
ConsumerscanscantheQR codeorvisitnordicspirit.ie to cast their vote andenterthedraw forthechance to win€5,000 worth ofprizes.
Ournewinteractivecampaignisjustoneofthelatest expansions,allowing consumers to directlyshapeourportfolio to fittheirpreferences,creatingtheultimate experience. Stockupon DarkFizzandMelonFreshnowandgive your consumersthe chance to‘chooseitorloseit!’.
Follownordicspirit.ieonInstagramorvisitnordicspirit.ie to keep upwiththecampaignand findoutwhich flavourwillbecrowned Ireland’snext favourite.
Thelaunchmarksan exciting first fortheloveableinternationalTV sensation,Bluey, whichwillbemakingitsIrish cerealdebutthrough a partnershipbetween Kellogg’sandBBC Studios–bringingabowlfulof funandadventure tofamilies at breakfasttime.
BlueyMultigrain cerealisnon-HFSS,highin fibreand containsno artificial coloursor flavourings,makingitbothafunandnourishing start to children’smornings.
Yazoolaunchesnew‘Inspirations’ range to drivedairydrinksales
Yazoo has recentlyintroduced BirthdayCakeandCaramelBlondie flavours ready forsummer.
Availableinwholesaleandgrocery now, the Yazoo‘Inspirations’ range, featuringBirthdayCakeandCaramel Blondie flavours,hasbeendeveloped to capitaliseonthegrowing consumerdemand forindulgent, on-the-gotreatsandsupportdriving incrementalsales for retailers.
Witha recommended retailprice of €1.99and availableincasesof12, thenew flavoursoffera strong marginopportunity for retailers.
2.Source KantarIreland Total MarketLatest52Wks w/e 20/04/25.
SmoochAçaí
Demand for açaíbowls ‘soars’
What startedasasocial mediatrendhasbecome a permanent fixtureinthe health foodmarket. Across IrelandandEurope,demand fornutrient-packed,graband-goaçaíbowlsissoaring, andbusinessesofferingthem are reapingthe rewards. With double-digitmarketgrowth andhealth-conscious customersactivelyseeking thissuperfood,açaíis fast becominganessentialmenu item.If you’renotofferingit yet, you couldbemissingoneofthemost profitable foodtrendsofthedecade
