ShelfLife March Issue 2025

Mary McBride, TWIG chairperson, discusses her role in helping to shape the future of the grocery industry for women

+ Empowering women

The green light

Decision-makers highlight their long-term sustainability strategies

Mind the gap

Bridging the gender gap in grocery retail leadership

ShelfLife March 2025 Vol.32 No.3

Editor

DONNA AHERN

donnaahern@mediateam.ie

Staff journalist

SHAUNA BERNARD

shauna.bernard@mediateam.ie

Contributors

CAROLINE REIDY

NIKKI MURRAN

Head of business

IAN MULVANEY (087) 2208486

ian.mulvaney@mediateam.ie

Account manager

MARK MORGAN (086) 8854930

mark.morgan@mediateam.ie

Circulation subs@mediateam.ie

Publisher JOHN McDONALD (01) 294 7744

john.mcdonald@mediateam.ie

Printing W & G Baird Ltd

ShelfLife is a controlled circulation magazine, available to selected individuals with interests in the retail and wholesale grocery trade, who fall within the publisher’s terms of control. For those outside these terms, annual subscription is €98.00 including postage & packing.

Embracing change

As with every chapter, change is inevitable, and this month, we are navigating some significant shifts within the MediaTeam HQ. It is with mixed emotions that we bid farewell to our talented staff journalist, Shauna Bernard. Bernard a has been a big part of our team, bringing her sharp insight and dedication to every story she covered. While we are sorry to see her go, we are excited for the new adventure that awaits her as she relocates to Newfoundland. We wish her nothing but the best as she embarks on this next exciting chapter of her life.

At the same time, we are thrilled to welcome Ryan Brennan, our new journalist, to the ShelfLife team. Brennan comes to us with a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective that we are confident will resonate with our readers. We look forward to the stories and ideas he will bring to life as he settles into his new role.

Change is a natural part of growth, and we are excited to see what the future holds for our team and for you, our valued readers. Thank you for your continued support as we evolve together.

Managing director

JOHN McDONALD Sales director

PAUL BYRNE Operations director

BILLY HUGGARD

Published monthly by Mediateam Ltd., 55 Spruce Avenue, Sandyford, Dublin 18. A94 RP22

Telephone (01) 294 7776

Fax (01) 294 7799

ISSN: 1393 0753

22 Empowering women in the grocery industry: Donna Ahern recently caught up with Mary McBride, TWIG chairperson, to chat about how the grocery and retail industries have seen significant transformations for women over the years.

NEWS&ANALYSIS

FEATURES&REPORTS

15 News: Dunnes holds 24.6% of the market share, with 6.9% year-on-year sales growth, as Irish consumers increasingly turn to online shopping and promotions, ShelfLife reports.

24 Connect forum: Donna Ahern speaks to Margaret Dineen, CEO & founder, Blue Sky Food Consulting about what we can expect from this year’s Irish Food Trade Connect Forum, the annual event that brings professionals and innovators from the sector together to showcase achievements, exchange ideas, and address key industry challenges.

61 Social Diary: Check out who’s been out and about this month.

62 20 Quick Questions: Oskar Persson, head of brands, Irish Distillers, Irish market.

ADVISOR

16 Recruitment: Nikki Murran highlights the importance of bridging the gender gap in grocery retail leadership.

18 HR: Employees have the right to disconnect provides employees with the right not to perform work outside of regular working hours, writes Caroline Reidy.

Donna Ahern

NEWSGRID

The top news stories in FMCG and retail from across Ireland

Coca-Cola HBC expands with acquisition of BDS Vending

Coca-Cola HBC Ireland & Northern Ireland has completed the acquisition of BDS Vending Solutions Ltd

RGDATA calls on new Justice Minister to tackle retail crime and costs

This transaction is part of Coca-Cola HBC’s strategy to enhance its route-to-market and direct-toconsumer capabilities and will provide new opportunities across its well-rounded snacks, cold and hot beverage portfolio

Tara Buckley, director general of RGDATA, has written to new Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan.

The three key issues outlined in the letter are implementing the PFG promises to tackle retail crime; do not approve the Judicial Council call for a 17% increase in personal injury payouts and reform the retail defamation bill to provide the necessary support for local retailers and their staff

Fed welcomes new crime bill to tackle retail assaults and theft

The official close of the acquisition took place on Friday 28 February

FSAI explores AI’s transformative role in food safety

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland’s (FSAI) Food Safety Consultative Council recently held an open meeting to explore the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in food safety

‘AI in Food Safety: Innovation, Risks, and Opportunities’ brought together leading experts to explore the potential of AI and its real-world applications in reshaping the future of food safety systems.

Retailer increases staff minimum wage to €15.10

Lidl Ireland recently announced that it has moved its minimum wage for employees to €15.10 and top rate wage for colleagues to €17.40 –exceeding the recommended €14.75 Living Wage rate for 2025.

All employees will feel the benefit of this increase in their wages, with the increase effective since 1 March.

Irish Daily Mail teams up with IRFU as official sponsor of Irish Women’s Rugby Team

dmg media, publisher of the Irish Daily Mail, has announced sponsorship of the Ireland Women’s Rugby Team through its key female focused brand, EVOKE.ie

Ireland kicked off their Guinness Women’s Six Nations campaign against France on Saturday, 22 March.

Paul Henderson, CEO, dmg media, publisher of EVOKE, said: “This is a significant moment for Irish Rugby as they celebrate their 150th anniversary.”

Lidl to open new store in Carrigstown through exclusive Fair City partnership

Lidl has started construction work to develop a brand-new store in Carrigstown, located in Fair City, as the retailer continues to deliver on its ambitious expansion plans.

On-set construction of Lidl Carrigstown at RTÉ studios in Donnybrook is currently underway, with the first episode including the new supermarket retailer due to air in early summer

The Federation of Independent Retailers says new measures to tackle assaults and theft in shops are welcome and long overdue

The Crime and Policing Bill, which was put before Parliament recently, is at the heart of what the government calls its “Safer Streets” plan, and ministers want it to become law by the end of the year

Tesco opens new Collins Avenue store, creates 12 new jobs

Tesco has recently opened a new Express store on Collins Avenue, north Dublin, creating 12 new jobs. The store measures almost 4,500 sq feet and will offer an extensive range of groceries, fresh produce, household items, and more.

Tesco also supports Our Lady of Consolation National School, providing fresh fruit and vegetables to children who need it most.

Junk Kouture World Final returns to Dublin

Schools worldwide put final touches on designs for the Junk Kouture Festival of Creativity and Circularity in Dublin, held from 3-4 March.

The event culminated in the Eurosparsponsored World Final at the Helix, DCU Celebrating 15 years of Junk Kouture, it showcased the sustainable, creative talent of young people aged 12-19 locally and globally ■

MiWadi and FAI Football Camps team up for new partnership

MiWadi has agreed a five-year sponsorship deal with the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) to become official partners of the FAI Football Camps.

The move will see the squash brand become the title sponsor of the largest summer grassroots football programme in the country

Commenting on the partnership, Kevin Donnelly, managing director, Britvic Ireland, commented: “MiWadi is Ireland’s number 1 squash brand, part of Irish life for nearly a century “MiWadi promotes active lifestyles and adds a splash of fun and healthy hydration to everyday moments.”

In its 29th year, the renowned FAI Football Camps offer the opportunity for children aged 6-14 years of age a ‘positive, safe and social’ environment to enjoy football.

Taking place throughout July and August at football clubs across the country, the camps will provide youngsters with a chance to participate in a week-long summer football programme delivered by qualified FAI coaches and club volunteers.

Open to children of all abilities, or those looking to start their football

SuperValu and GIY launch 2025 Let’s GROW programme

journey, the camps provide an opportunity to make football accessible enjoyable and inclusive for all.

The FAI Football explained that its camps go beyond just football development and translate into everyday life, allowing young players to develop important life skills such as teamwork, resilience, and confidence.

Sean Kavanagh, commercial director, FAI, said: “The FAI Football Camps are all about bringing young people together in a fun and positive environment, making MiWadi the perfect partner for one of the most significant grassroots football programmes in the country.”

CPM Ireland takes home gold at FMBE Awards

SuperValu and not-for-profit social enterprise GIY have announced the launch of their innovative 2025 SuperValu Let’s GROW programme SuperValu Let’s GROW is a nationwide initiative designed to engage primary schools in food education and sustainable growing practices.

By the end of 2025, nearly 170,000 primary school children will have participated in the ‘SuperValu Let’s GROW’ initiative, learning essential skills and receiving resources to cultivate fresh food for free at school.

This long-term partnership emphasises the importance of homegrown food within classrooms, communities, and households across Ireland.

The 2025 campaign was officially launched on 11 February by awardwinning chef Lilly Higgins, who has created a series of family-friendly recipes for the SuperValu Let’s Grow initiative.

As part of the launch, last year’s winners, Nagle Rice National School from Milltown Kerry, visited students at Strawberry Hill N.S. in Cork City to demonstrate that ‘There’s Always Space to Grow,’ whether your school is located in a rural area or an urban setting.

Lilly Higgins said: “We all know that those who grow their own food tend to eat more locally, organically and seasonally, which is incredibly important. By giving our kids the power to cook with ingredients they’ve grown themselves, we can inspire them to get excited about fruit and veg.

“The SuperValu Let’s Grow campaign is invaluable in providing children, teachers, and families with the tools they need to start growing, making fresh, homegrown food more accessible and engaging for everyone.”

CPM Ireland has announced its achievement of winning the “International Agency of the Year” at the highly competitive FMBE awards (Field Marketing & Brand Experience) in London, beating all competition in Ireland and Europe

This accolade is recognition of CPM’s commitment to investing in people and technology to drive sales for their clients.

This award recognises CPM’s innovative, agile and insightsdriven approach and delivering the optimum results for their clients.

In addition to International Agency of the Year, CPM picked up two additional Gold awards at the FMBE Awards –‘Campaign of the Year’ and ‘Most Effective In-Store Marketing’.

In the last three months CPM also won the Highly Commended Award for Team of the Year: at the CCMA (Customer Contact and Shared Services Awards).

“I am incredibly proud of these achievements, “Winning International Agency of the year, against such stiff competition, is fantastic and a result of our commitment to investing in the best talent and the latest technology to drive results for our clients,” said John Healy, general manager, CPM Ireland.

According to Healy, CPM’s team of industry experts combined with its laser-focus on actionable insights – and working in tandem with its clients – is the winning formula.

“Coupled with our culture, our commitment to and progress on DE&I and sustainability plus our governance & values – and this award is a vindication of living our ‘values’ in the work we do together: We Care, We’re Curious – and We Achieve Together,” concluded Healy

Picking up the International Agency of the YearAward (L-R) FMBE Compere, CPM team- Joe Balamash, client service director, Annamarie Hogan, client service manager, Donna Leonard, head of marketing Carlos Jimenez, client service manager and FMBE entertainers

Dylan Kenna, Sophia Kenna, Tyler Waine and Abbie Halpin at the Aviva Stadium to mark the kick-off of a five-year partnership between MiWadi and Football Association Ireland

Kate O’Connell, Nagle Rice NS Milltown, award-winning chef Lilly Higgins and Orlaith O’Sullivan, Nagle Rice NS Milltown at the launch of the 2025 SuperValu Let’s Grow Programme at Strawberry Hill N.S, Cork (Photo: Darragh Kane)

Fluorescent lighting is on borrowed time. Upgrade

and reduce your lighting costs by up to 70%.

With the EU directive to phase out fluorescent lighting now in place for Irish businesses, there’s never been a better time for a fully funded lighting upgrade to help you make guaranteed savings of up to 70% on your business lighting costs. We’ll replace your old fluorescent lighting, managing the entire process from start to finish

Find out more at energia.ie/lighting

Garvey’s SuperValu Listowel wins National SuperValu

Store of the Year 2025

Garvey’s SuperValu Listowel SuperValu in Co Kerry has been awarded the prestigious title of ‘National SuperValu Store of the Year’ for 2025, while also taking home the award for ‘Best Large Store of the Year 2025’.

Garvey’s SuperValu Listowel was shortlisted for the highly coveted retail accolade, along with eleven other finalist stores from around the country, at the SuperValu National Conference, which was held in The Great Southern Hotel, Killarney, Co Kerry

In what was a highly competitive final, Garvey’s SuperValu Listowel stood out from the shortlist to take home the top prize.

The finalists were audited and adjudicated by independent competition judge and retail consultant Paul Ellison, who highlighted that in a very competitive Irish retail market, SuperValu excels in delivering exceptional customer service, quality food leadership, community support and value

This creates a real sense of purpose for participating stores, with owners, managers, and colleagues fully supporting the competition.

This award acknowledges the exceptional standards consistently achieved by the team at Garvey’s SuperValu Listowel.

Outstanding performance was noted in key categories, including fresh food offering, food leadership and quality, people management, sustainability initiatives, and community involvement.

Garvey’s SuperValu Listowel was recognised for its unwavering commitment to excellence across all categories, highlighting its outstanding community involvement, particularly its dedication to the local area through GAA sponsorship

Rosie & Jim expands operations to meet demand

Rosie & Jim’s award-winning breaded chicken range

‘attracts flocks of fans across Ireland, UK, and Germany

“I am honoured to receive both awards, which reflects our dedicated team’s hard work and commitment throughout the year, this achievement wouldn’t be possible without them,” said Jim Garvey, store owner, Garvey’s SuperValu Listowel.

Garvey’s SuperValu Listowel prioritises quality, value, and exceptional service, alongside sustainability initiatives to create the best shopping experience for its customers.

Tenderstem

broccoli

sees

19.8% sales surge in Ireland

Rosie & Jim has announced that it is expanding, adding a major, multimillion-euro project to the factory in Dublin 12.

The expansion, which will increase the footprint by 70%, tripling production, paves the way for more fans to enjoy their award-winning products.

The family business, founded by Jimmy and Rosie McLoughlin in 1997, which employs 70 people here in Ireland has gone from strength to strength over the past two decades, aided in no small part by the ‘game-changing’ decision to move to guten free products in 2015, as well as the brand’s unwavering commitment to superior taste and premium quality

As the 2024 ‘FreeFrom’ Champion winner, the Irish, family-owned brand has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of food lovers, not only amongst its growing fan base here in Ireland, but across the UK and Germany too, with its delicious range of premium products in both chilled and frozen varieties.

Jimmy and his wife Rosie started this business 27 years ago when he was just 27 years old.

“Irish and international consumer demand for high-quality, clean-label products continues apace and we love developing delicious, innovative products, such as our Battered Chicken Chunks, that will excite our fans, inspire families to try new dishes and leave them wanting more,” noted Jimmy McLoughlin, managing director, Rosie & Jim.

“We love that the Rosie & Jim range has switched any out-dated perception that ‘gluten-free’ would be a taste compromise,” said Rosie McLoughlin, brand manager, Rosie & Jim.

The Rosie & Jim range of frozen and chilled products are available from Tesco, Dunnes, Supervalu, Eurospar, Spar and Mace in Ireland.

A wider range of Rosie & Jim products are also available through a large network of butchers shops nationwide

For recipe inspiration or to learn more about the Rosie & Jim product range visit www.rosieandjim.com and follow @rosieandjim

Tenderstem, broccoli’s ‘tastier cousin’, continues to thrive in the Irish market, with sales volume growing by an impressive 19.8% over the past two years.

With ambitious plans for a further 22% growth in the next twelve months, the brand sees significant potential for expansion.

Despite strong demand here in Ireland, per capita consumption of Tenderstem® remains at just half that of the UK, where sales continue to rise by double digits year on year

This presents a major opportunity for Irish retailers to capitalise on increasing consumer interest in this versatile vegetable

Marketed under licence in Ireland by GFE (Global Fresh Exotics), based in Co Meath, Tenderstem® is committed to working closely with retailers and its local growers to maximise this growth opportunity

“There is strong potential for Tenderstem across both retail and food service and we are encouraging businesses to take advantage of its rising demand and its ability to elevate menus and plates across homes and businesses,” said Richard Moore, managing director, GFE.

The success of its 2024 campaigns has paved the way to further educate on the nutritional benefits and versatility of the product, including a partnership with Malte Half, head chef at Dublin’s famed Glas restaurant, the brand’s first presence at the 2024 National Ploughing Championships, and local promotions celebrating Tenderstem’s® Irish summer production.

With a dedicated local supply chain and increasing brand presence, Tenderstem® truly is ‘Broccoli but Better’. Get in touch richard@gfe.ie

(L-R) Dan Curtain, Jim Garvey, Fergal Nash, Thomas Garvey, Paul O’Connor, Joe Moynihan, Kevin McCarthy and Luke Hanlon

(L-R) Rosie & Jim Shredded Chicken and Garlic Chicken Kievs

Richard Moore, MD GFE with David Thorpe, Thorpe Organic Farm

STOCK UP NOW

SuperValu’s calls on entrepreneurs to apply for Food Academy

SuperValu is calling on Ireland’s next generation of food and drink producers to apply for Food Academy 2025, a programme designed to nurture and scale innovative businesses.

In 2025, Food Academy products are projected to generate €30 million in retail sales, reflecting strong consumer demand for local, high-quality, and sustainable Irish food. Applications open on 10 March, offering entrepreneurs expert mentorship, retail insight, and exposure. Supported by SuperValu and the Local Enterprise Office, Food Academy equips producers with the tools to thrive in a competitive retail landscape

“This programme provides producers with invaluable experience and the opportunity to get their products on SuperValu shelves year-round,” said Carmel Biggane, Food Academy manager “Supporting local and Irish producers is at the heart of what we do at SuperValu.”

This year, Food Academy has partnered with TU Dublin, offering a twoday training programme It is now the only accredited producer development programme, leading to a Certificate in Entrepreneurship Over 11 years, Food Academy has surpassed €260 million in retail sales.

Over half of adults struggle to understand diet’s impact on health

Over half (55%) of adults do not completely understand the impact diet has on their health, with the incidence of such higher with those aged 55+ according to a new survey by Nestlé Lindahls

The research was commissioned to mark the launch of the Lindahls #GoodMove campaign.

As part of the campaign launch, the brand has also teamed up with radio and TV broadcaster Anna Geary and Perpetua Fitness.

Encouragingly, the survey also revealed that 85% of adults would like to eat healthier and more nutritious food.

However, almost half (45%) of those surveyed admitted to feeling overwhelmed when it comes to maintaining a healthy balanced diet.

So, what are the barriers Irish people face when it comes to eating a more nutritional diet?

Cost is the main factor at 63% followed by being time poor (26%), as well as a lack of understanding around nutritional foods (25%). Interestingly, being time poor was a greater barrier for those aged 25-34 years (39%).

Over half (55%) of those surveyed claim they increased their actions to have a healthier diet, with those aged 25-34 (61%) most likely to have done so

The main reasons for increasing these actions were cited as weight management (55%) followed by health concerns (53%). To achieve a healthy diet, 45% of Irish people believe the level of protein consumed is an important part.

The Lindahls Kvarg and Pro+ protein yogurt range is available in stores nationwide Packed with a minimum of 15g of protein in every pot, Lindahls comes in a range of indulgent and fruity flavours.

Janet’s Just Delicious credits the programme for supporting its brand evolution, Thanks Plants has expanded nationwide, and All Real, the only Irish protein bar available nationwide with SuperValu, calls the programme a game-changer

Apply through your Local Enterprise Office by 4 April 2025.

Irish marks 51 years with ‘The Guarantee of Guaranteed Irish’ campaign

As Guaranteed Irish enters its 51st year of championing Irish businesses, the organisation remains at the forefront of driving enterprise-led positive change in communities across Ireland.

‘The Guarantee of Guaranteed Irish’ campaign which will be elevated through its many retail members this year, continues to spotlight the transformative impact Irish businesses have on quality employment, community development, local supply chains and provenance.

Its member partners include SuperValu, Centra, Topline, Cork Builder Providers, Applegreen, United Hardware (Homevalue), Insomnia, Circle K, PTSB, FBD Insurance, DID Electrical and Petstop who exemplify these values, not only by providing employment but by actively giving back to the communities in which they do business.

Through tailored visual assets, videos, OOH and radio advertising, the campaign aims to connect with consumers on a deeper level, demonstrating how their support of Guaranteed Irish members directly impacts their communities.

Collaboration between Guaranteed Irish and its retail members remains at the heart of the campaign.

• Radio ads broadcast both in-store and on national radio

• Posters in its retail members stores showing why they are members and why this is important to consumers

• Social media campaigns, featuring employees and community initiatives.

• Programmatic advertising and outdoor media placements across the country

• Brid O’Connell, CEO, Guaranteed Irish, said: “This campaign shines a light on these stories, and we are proud to see our retail partners embrace this messaging to amplify its reach. By working together, we are making an even greater impact.”

Pictured at the Food Academy Recruitment Drive 2025 is Janet Drew, Janet’s Just Delicious; Niall Harty, All Real Nutrition; Aisling Cullen, Thanks Plants. Pic: Don Moloney

Bríd O’Connell, CEO, Guaranteed Irish and Sinead Mitchell, head of marketing and PR, Guaranteed Irish

Lindahl’s range of products

Anna Geary at the Lindahl’s Good Move Campaign launch at Perpetua Fitness, Lennox Street, Dublin (Picture: Brian McEvoy)

SEEN AND HEARD

Taste of Dublin 2025 marks 20 years of Ireland’s unique culinary and food culture

Iconic festival celebrates tantalising Irish taste buds for 20 years Ireland’s iconic culinary festival, Taste of Dublin, marks its 20th anniversary this year as it returns to Dublin’s Merrion Square from 12 to 15 of June This special festival, in association with JYSK, is set to tantalise visitor taste buds as it celebrates 20 years of Ireland’s unique culinary and food scene

The 20th anniversary programme will explore Ireland’s food and cultural evolution over the last two decades creating a truly memorable experience for the over 33,000 people expected to attend the festival.

The glorious and expansive surroundings of Merrion Square, will create an inspiring backdrop as a host of well-known chefs, restaurants, artisan food innovators, and musical acts come together to celebrate Irish food and culture. Irish culinary and cultural evolution is the secret sauce that is set to make this year’s festival truly remarkable Festival organisers together with headline sponsor JYSK and other key event partners are planning some -exciting anniversary activations and visitor experiences that will celebrate festivals gone by as well as looking to the future of Ireland’s vibrant food and culinary landscape There will be lots of special cookery and food activations planned to inspire and entertain visitors to this iconic event.

Commenting on behalf of Taste of Dublin, Jo Mathews, CEO, Equinox Events, said: “Over the last two decades, ‘Taste of Dublin’ festival, has truly reflected Ireland’s incredible food scene, offering a creative platform that not only showcases Irish cuisine but also encourages and celebrates creativity and innovation. It is wonderful to welcome back JYSK as our headline sponsor for a second year Celebrating food has always been central to the festival blueprint and this year feels extra special as we

The Grocers Fun Run

is back for its 7th

Year running

This year’s event is set to be bigger & better than ever!

With two amazing events to raise funds for the Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund (IGBF), it is kicking off at Mallow racecourse, Co Cork on 17 May and the following week 24 May in Leopardstown racecourse, Co Dublin. Join IGBF in Cork for a 5km or 10km run, or in Dublin for a 6.4km fun run loop

Enjoy a family fun day out as this is an inclusive race, open to all. There will be entertainment, face painting and special guest appearances not to be missed on the day. Enjoy its tasting and sampling area for all your needs before and after the race!

The ongoing support of key sponsors and long-term supporters of the Grocers Fun Run including The National Lottery, Yoplait, Keelings, FMI, Barry Group, Tayto Snackfoods and Stonehouse will all be in attendance.

It will have its legendary goodie bags worth over €30 and exclusive new 2025 IGBF medal for all participants with many other goodies and prizes available on the day. ‘Keep up the healthy momentum this year and make a difference for an amazing Irish charity.’

Joe Wogan, chairman of the Grocers Fun Run Committee, said: “This is a great family fun event, The Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund is all about supporting families from the grocery trade that have fallen on hard times. We would love to see as many suppliers as possible, friends and families at both our running events.”

recognise Ireland’s and indeed some of the world’s top culinary creators and chefs over the last 20 years. Together with JYSK and our wider festival partners, we look forward to sharing lots more exciting details about the event experience as we approach June”.

Roni Tuominen, country director, JYSK UK & IRE, added: “2025 is gearing up to be another very exciting year for us at JYSK as we continue our expansion across Ireland with 8 new stores scheduled to open as well as continuing to strengthen our partnership with Taste of Dublin. JYSK is one of Ireland’s go to destinations for high quality, on trend products for the home and garden and we can’t wait to once again bring our Scandinavian design ethic and style to the Taste of Dublin festival.”

With everything from celebrity chef cooking demonstrations, interactive food and lifestyle workshops, leading music acts, there really is something for everyone at Taste of Dublin 2025. Tickets for Taste of Dublin 2025 will go on sale in March, visit tasteofdublin.ie and follow Taste of Dublin on Instagram @tasteofdublin to stay up to date

Oatly Ireland now supplying the island of Ireland directly

As of the 3 March, Oatly Ireland has started suppling the island of Ireland directly This decision to expand formerly into Ireland with its new offices comes after three years of Oatly working with Richmond Marketing in Ireland. In that time, Oatly sales have grown by more than 50% and its iconic Barista Edition is the #1 selling plant-milk. As well as opening an office, Oatly (a Swedish company and the world’s largest and original oat drink brand, in case you didn’t know) will be further investing in Ireland with several roles, focused on brand building and expanding on its product portfolio

The investment will be underpinned by a strong marketing function with campaigns due to kick off in 2025 to bolster awareness and engagement with Oatly and the plant-based industry more broadly

Donal Comerford, Oatly Ireland’s newly appointed country manager, said: “We’re so excited to have opened our new office doors and grow Oatly’s profile across Ireland. Preferences are evolving and whether it’s in store, in a coffee shop or while out on the move, Irish shoppers increasingly expect access to their milk of choice.”

Last year, new research revealed one third of shoppers in Ireland were buying more meat and dairy alternatives than they did three years ago And the trend shows no sign of slowing down, with three out of ten adults planning to make even more plant-based swaps in the year ahead. *

Oatly is already widely available in supermarkets and the new local team now plan to further build the brand’s presence with independent coffee shops, workplaces and retailers. ■

Celebrity chef Clodagh McKenna at Taste of Dublin

Celebrity chefs at Taste of Dublin

(L-R) Dónal Comerford, country manager Ireland and Chris King, head of commercial, Oatly

CSNA NEWS

Auto Enrolment update

We have received the following information from the AE Section of the Department of Social Welfare regarding Auto Enrolment.

We are collating additional details and will share over the next few months.

You need to ensure that your payroll provider has engaged with the Scheme to provide for a seamless transition for those employees that will be captured into AE.

Employees will either be enrolled automatically on the basis that they meet the income threshold according to data from payroll or the employee opts into the system. To determine a person’s eligibility based on earnings, their earnings over the previous thirteen weeks will be examined to determine whether they are proportionate to earning €20,000 over a year. This is known as the “pay reference period”, as provided for in Section 50 of the AE Act (2024). Should the employee be eligible, then the contribution rate, comprising of both the employee and employer portions, will be applied to the employee’s gross earnings within a particular pay period, i.e. the period for which the pay relates to, whether this is weekly, fortnightly, or monthly etc. Therefore, an employee whose income meets the earnings threshold in months 11 or 12, will be automatically enrolled with contributions due on earnings from that point forward.

It should also be noted that employers will not be required to enrol their employees. Instead, the new National Automatic Enrolment Retirement Savings Authority (NAERSA) will undertake enrolment of participants and most of the administration of the new system. Payroll applications should take care of almost everything else by consuming enrolment notifications, processing the contribution calculation and making returns to NAERSA automatically. As a result, most employers will only need to register their payment details on an employer portal – and that is a once-anddone task. Accordingly, this represents a considerably lower administrative burden for employers, both in terms of cost and resources, than operating an alternative pension scheme.

As far back as July last year we alerted members to the likelihood that Elavon, the US plastic card industry (PCI) service provider and owner of Opayo would be implementing very significant increases to their fee structure from November.

A number of members have very recently, when reviewing costs, noticed a sharp increase in the charges applied, in many instances in excess of €500 each of the three months since 1 November.

Elavon provides a service that is also provided by other companies in the market, providers that can (and are) less expensive and equally (or more) effective.

Can you afford not to shop around?

Don’t sign up for lengthy contracts, always keep your options open.

GUS O’HARA National President, CSNA

Upcoming changes to alcohol labelling legislation

In 16 months’, time (22 May 2026 to be precise) it will be a criminal offence for a retailer to sell any container of alcohol unless it has a series of warning messages affixed, whether as part of the suppliers’ label or by way of a label applied at some stage of the supply chain.

Environmental Health Officers will be monitoring compliance from that date. The Department of Health has been very clear that they do not intend to provide a transition period and that, as far as they are concerned, all products offered for sale from 22 May 2026 will need to comply with the prescribed legislation.

As retailers, you will need to manage your stock levels in advance of May 2026 to ensure a “washthrough” of all stock that does not have the labels on them. Given the long production lead in and shelf life of certain alcohol products we believe this requirement to be very challenging and suggest that you engage with your suppliers to get confirmation from them that they will only supply products to you that are fully compliant rather than expecting you to have literally dozens of different labels, given the fact that the requirements (grams, kilocalories and kilojoules) are very specific to the product in that container. To confirm, all multipacks will be required to have the information on each and every can or bottle – a label on the outside will not suffice.

CSNA participated in a Re-Turn Retailer Forum convened to review the current handling fees paid to retailers who take back those cans and bottles that have deposit applied at purchase.

We will be assembling relevant data across a wide range of what we consider to be relevant costs, including cash flow, opportunities foregone, external shelters and car park spaces.

Those CSNA members who currently take back inscope containers are invited to contact the office to learn more about this very important issue. ■

Boann Distillery triumphs at icons of Whisky Ireland Awards 2025

Boann Distillery has emerged as a double award winner at the prestigious Icons of Whisky Ireland Awards 2025 which was recently held at the InterContinental Hotel in Dublin.

The family-owned Meath distillery was honoured with Distiller of the Year in the Producer Category and Production Team of the Year in the People Category cementing its reputation as a leader in the Irish whiskey industry

The Icons of Whisky Awards celebrate excellence in whiskey-making, recognising the passion and dedication of individuals and teams who craft world-class spirits.

As one of the standout winners, Boann Distillery will now advance to the finals of the

World Whiskies Awards, where it will compete on a global stage for the ultimate recognition in whiskey excellence.

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication, skill, and passion of our incredible team at Boann Distiller,” said Pat Cooney, founder of Boann Distillery

“Every bottle we produce reflects our commitment to innovation and craftsmanship We are honoured to be acknowledged at such a prestigious event, and we look forward to representing Ireland in the global finals.”

The 2025 World Whiskies Awards Global Dinner will take place on 26 March in the Waldorf Hilton Hotel in London, where the overall winners will be announced.

Jailbird Communications adds Teeling Whiskey to its portfolio

Pictured at Dublin Airport, Tony Cluskey, marketing & ambient trading manager, Gala Retail, joins Team Ireland athletes along with Matt English, CEO of Special Olympics Ireland and staff from Aer Lingus as they prepared to depart for Turin, Italy to compete in the Special Olympics World Winter Games 2025

Gala Retail celebrates Team Ireland’s take off to the Winter Games

Team Ireland recently competed on the world stage at the Special Olympics World Winter Games 2025, proudly supported by Gala Retail. Turin, Italy, hosted over 1,500 athletes from 103 countries, competing in eight winter sports.

Among them are the incredible athletes of Team Ireland, ready to represent their country in Skiing and Floorball. With months of training and preparation behind them, they are set to showcase their skill and sportsmanship on the world stage

For over a decade, Gala Retail has been a platinum sponsor of Special Olympics Ireland, championing athletes and their families across Ireland. The long-standing partnership is built

on shared values, and over the years, Gala has played an integral role in ensuring athletes have the resources, encouragement, and support they need to reach their full potential, both on and off the field.

Speaking ahead of the team’s departure, Tony Cluskey, marketing & ambient trading manager, Gala Retail: “At Gala Retail, we are incredibly proud to support Team Ireland as they set off to compete at the World Winter Games. Just like Special Olympics, Gala is at the heart of communities across Ireland, and we’ve seen firsthand the positive impact this organisation has on athletes, their families, and supporters nationwide.”

Jailbird Communications has announced a significant new business win to its growing client roster Teeling Whiskey has joined Jailbird Communications’ client portfolio and is the latest addition in a series of impressive wins for the young agency, which is celebrating its fifth year in business this year

As its portfolio of clients continues to grow at pace, with seven new account wins on a local and global scale in the first quarter of 2025, the agency will continue to work with a selection of much-loved Irish and international brands such as HelloFresh, Bulmers, Corona, Budweiser, Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, and Other Voices.

This period of growth is part of the agency’s ambitious strategic vision, and the agency aims to help clients break free from boring campaigns while solving business problems and driving tangible results and measurable success

Commenting on the new client win, Julie Blakeney, managing director at Jailbird Communications, said: “I’ve admired the brand’s passion for innovation and desire to test the boundaries of Irish whiskey for years, so it’s safe to say we’re looking forward to continuing the tradition of pushing boundaries, testing limits, and thinking outside the norm when it comes to their PR and marketing strategy.”

For more information, visit www.jailbird.ie

Boann Icons of Whisky Ireland Awards 2025

Teeling Irish Whiskey

Dunnes remains Ireland’s leading grocer

Dunnes holds 24.6% of the market share, with 6.9% year-on-year sales growth, as Irish consumers increasingly turn to online shopping and promotions, ShelfLife reports

Over the latest 12 weeks, Dunnes holds 24.6% market share, with sales growth of 6.9% yearon-year, according to the latest grocery data from Kantar

Dunnes welcomed new shoppers to the store and with existing shoppers picking up more per trip, this contributed a combined €18.2 million to its overall performance.

Tesco holds 23.9% of the market, with value growth of 6.5% year-on-year New shoppers and increased trips to store contributed a combined €27.1 million to overall performance.

SuperValu holds 20.4% of the market with growth of 4.5%. Consumers made the most shopping trips to this grocer, averaging 23.7 trips over the latest 12 weeks. The increase in the number of trips contributed an additional €41 million to its performance.

Lidl holds 12.8% market share, up 4.6%. New shoppers drove an additional €4.2 million in sales.

Aldi holds 10.9% market share, up 4.7%, while more trips in- store drove an additional €9.5 million in sales.

Take-home sales

Take-home value sales increased by 4.9% in Ireland over the four weeks to 23 February 2025, compared to the same period last year

Kantar examines how consumers’ habits have evolved since the pandemic, as the fiveyear anniversary of the first Covid-19 lockdown approaches.

Grocery inflation rose by 0.3 percentage points and now stands at 3.7% compared to the same 12-week period last year, following recent periods of stability

Bank holiday and Valentine’s Day shoppers

February was a busy month for Irish consumers who celebrated both the bank holiday weekend and Valentine’s Day.

Love was in the air with shoppers spending an additional €14.4 million on chocolate and sweets and €4.2 million on wine as many celebrated at home

A box of chocolates continues to be the present of choice with sales jumping by 6.9% in February

Shoppers also prepared for pancake day, stocking up on sweet spreads and spending an additional €1.3 million versus January

Irish retail performance

Online sales rose by 14.6% year-on-year, with shoppers spending an additional €27.8 million through this channel.

Over the latest 12-week period, the number of online shopping trips increased by 10.4%, alongside shoppers picking up more packs when shopping online, which contributed a combined €22 million to online’s overall performance.

COVID-19 impact

“In 2020, we couldn’t have predicted the full extent of the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on all of our lives,” comments Emer Healy, business development director, Kantar

“However, five years later, we can see its lasting effects on consumer behaviour Our data shows that habits haven’t fully returned to prepandemic norms, and shopping trips remain lower than before.”

Households made fewer visits (down by nearly two) to supermarkets in February 2025 than in 2020

While the trend for online shopping appears to have stuck as well, with the online channel

taking a record 6.9% market share in February compared to 2.7% in the same period in 2020

Healy adds: “Right now it’s hard to separate the cost-of-living crisis from post-COVID trends, with value-seeking a key consumer focus. Despite expectations, shoppers aren’t visiting more stores for deals, averaging only four stores over the past 12 weeks.”

Attracting shoppers

Kantar points to growing supermarket loyalty schemes that offer exclusive discounts as playing a key role in attracting shoppers.

“Retailers continue to roll out discounts, as a way of easing the pressure on household budgets – and Irish consumers are more than happy to take advantage of them.”

Spending on promotion rose by 11.6% with shoppers spending an additional €92 million versus last year Promotions now account for 23.9% of all sales going through the tills.

Representing nearly half (45%) of all grocery value sales, own label products remain popular with sales jumping 3.8% versus last year as shoppers spent an additional €62.6 million on these ranges.

Brands performed slightly ahead of the total grocery market growing by 5.6% compared to last year ■

“Right now it’s hard to separate the cost-of-living crisis from post-COVID trends, with value-seeking a key consumer focus.”

Dunnes Store, Co. Galway

Mind the gap

Nikki Murran highlights the importance of bridging the gender gap in grocery retail leadership

I grew up in retail - stacking shelves, working the tills, and doing everything in between before eventually making my way up to senior management

If you’ve worked in retail, you know it’s not for the faint-hearted. It’s fast-paced, unpredictable, and comes with a side of unique customers. However, one thing is certain: grocery retail wouldn’t function without hardworking, engaged employees.

And guess what? Studies have shown that women are more engaged than men in nearly every role below senior leadership They’re often the ones driving store culture, keeping teams motivated, and ensuring that everything—from fresh produce to payroll—gets sorted. But something weird happens when women move up the ladder: their engagement starts to drop Meanwhile, men’s engagement increases.

Now, why is that? Well, for starters, leadership roles can feel isolating. Women often don’t get the same level of support, recognition, or opportunities as their male counterparts. A 2022 McKinsey & Lean In report found that for every 100 men promoted to management, only 87 women move up with them. And in frontline retail, where leadership pipelines are critical, the gap is even wider.

The reality of retail’s gender gap

The gender pay gap isn’t doing us any favours either. In Ireland, women earn, on average, 12.6% less than men. Even in an industry where women make up a significant portion of the workforce, they’re still underrepresented in leadership

roles and underpaid when they get there.

And then there’s the“double shift”—the fact that many women in senior roles are still handling the majority of household and childcare responsibilities

According to Eurostat women in Ireland spend nearly 13 more hours per week on unpaid domestic work than men. So, when long, unpredictable hours come into play (hello, Christmas trading madness), women often have to make tough decisions about career progression versus family life.

The leadership ‘Engagement cliff’

Women tend to start their careers in retail with high engagement, and they bring that energy into middle management But when they hit senior roles, the support system thins out. Research suggests that this drop-off happens because senior women often feel unheard, undervalued, or excluded from decision-making.

There’s also the pressure to conform to leadership styles that don’t always align with how women naturally lead While men are often praised for being decisive and assertive, women in leadership can face criticism for the same traits. A Harvard Business Review study found that women in executive roles receive less actionable feedback and are more likely to be judged on personality rather than performance. So, in other words,“you’re too nice” or “you’re too tough” are actual career blockers.

And let’s not forget the invisible workload: the expectation that women in leadership will also take on extra emotional labour

mentoring junior employees, driving diversity initiatives, or being the“approachable” manager. All of this adds up, and it’s no surprise that many women leave senior roles sooner than men.

What can retailers do to fix this?

The good news? There are practical steps grocery retailers can take to stop this talent drain and keep their best leaders engaged:

• Flexible work arrangements: Job sharing, hybrid options, and predictable scheduling can help women balance leadership with life This isn’t about “special treatment” but about removing unnecessary barriers to retention.

• Pay transparency and equity audits: If men and women are doing the same job, they should be paid the same Full stop Retailers should proactively review salary structures to close any hidden gaps

• Mentorship and sponsorship programs: Mentorship is great, but women also need sponsors—senior leaders who actively advocate for their promotions, not just offer

“advice” over coffee

• Leadership training that works for women: Traditional leadership programs tend to be built around outdated ideas of authority. More inclusive training can help women lead authentically without feeling like they have to mimic outdated leadership styles At the end of the day, retail is a people business, and if we want to keep our best talent engaged— especially women in leadership we need to make real changes. The numbers don’t lie: women bring high levels of engagement, strong leadership, and invaluable experience to the table. But if the system is set up in a way that causes them to burn out, disengage, or leave, then retailers are only hurting themselves Closing the gender gap isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a smart business move. More diverse leadership leads to better decision-making, stronger teams, and ultimately, better-performing stores Because when women thrive in leadership, everyone benefits—including the bottom line. ■

NIKKI MURRAN Director, Grocery Retail Recruitment, Excel Recruitment

www.excelrecruitment.com

The right to disconnect

Employees have the right to disconnect provides employees with the right not to perform work outside of regular working hours, writes Caroline

Reidy

The Right to Disconnect, in Ireland was formally recognised in 2021 through a Code of Practice on the Right to Disconnect, introduced by the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) This is part of the Government commitment to create more flexible family-friendly working arrangements, including working from home and working more flexible hours. In recent years, the working day has come under threat from an“always on ” work culture.

The Right to Disconnect, provides employees with the right to disengage from work-related communications outside of normal working hours without facing repercussions.

Legislation

Section 20(2) of the Workplace Relations Act, 2015 provides, at the request of the Minister, for the preparation of draft Codes of practice by the WRC for submission to the Minister for Enterprise,Trade and Employment Codes of Practice are written guidelines, agreed in a consultative process, setting out guidance and best practice for employers and employees with respect to compliance with employment legislation.

While failure to follow a Code prepared under section 20(1)(a) of the Workplace Relations Act, 2015 is not an offence in itself, section 20(9) provides that in any

proceedings before a Court, the Labour Court or the WRC, a Code of Practice shall be admissible in evidence and any provision of the Code which appears to the court, body or officer concerned to be relevant to any question arising in the proceedings shall be considered in determining that question

What is the Right to Disconnect?

The right to disconnect encompasses three main elements:

• The right not to perform work outside of regular working hours: Employees are not obligated to respond to workrelated emails, calls, or messages when off-duty.

• The right to be protected from penalisation: Employees should not face negative consequences for choosing not to engage in work-related communications outside working hours.

• The duty to respect others’ right to disconnect: Employers and employees alike should respect their colleagues’ time and avoid unnecessary communication outside working hours.

Scope and application

This is a Code of Practice, meaning it is not a legally binding statute. However, it can be used as evidence in disputes, such as claims

of unfair treatment or breaches of work-life balance rights.

Employers are encouraged to incorporate the Right to Disconnect into their workplace policies and practices, ensuring clarity on expectations.

Employee protections

Employees can raise grievances if they feel their right to disengage is not respected.

The Code of Practice complements existing laws, such as the Organisation of Working Time Act, 1997, which limits the maximum working hours and mandates rest breaks.

Employer responsibilities

Employers are required to:

• Develop clear policies regarding out-of-hours communication.

• Ensure their workplace culture supports the right to disconnect

• Address any systemic issues that pressure employees to work beyond their contracted hours.

• Employers with operations in multiple time zones should consider putting agile working arrangements into a more formalised standing with a view to ensuring balance between the employees normal working hours and the operational needs of the business.

CAROLINE REIDY

• More employers are likely to invest in time recording software to ensure their compliance with the Organisation of Working Time Act and also to demonstrate their commitment to the right to disconnect

Context and challenges

The introduction of the right to disconnect reflects broader trends, such as increased remote working during the COVID-19 pandemic

Practical implementation can be challenging in certain industries where work hours are less defined, or in roles requiring high flexibility

Legal context

While the code of practice provides guidelines, Irish labour laws do not currently have a specific, enforceable right to disconnect. However, the Code strengthens employees’ arguments in disputes related to working hours or unfair treatment.

Dispute resolution

The purpose of the code is to provide practical guidance and best practice to employers, employees and their representatives in relation to the Right to Disconnect. The code is designed to provide guidance for the resolution of workplace issues arising from the Right to Disconnect both informally and formally, and:

• Complement and support employers’ and employees’ rights and obligations under the Organisation of Working Time Act, 1997 (OWTA), the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 2005 (SHWWA), the Employment (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2018 and the Terms of Employment (Information) Act 1994 – 2014

• Assist employers and employees in navigating an increasingly digital and changed working landscape which often involves

remote and flexible working

• Provide assistance to those employees who feel obligated to routinely work longer hours than those agreed in their terms and conditions of employment

• Assist employers in developing and implementing procedures and policies to facilitate the Right to Disconnect

If problems or issues arise, employees have the right to raise the matter with the WRC. The full code is available to view at www.workplacerelations.ie

If you are an organisation based in the Republic of Ireland and require further information or advice relating to HR, please do not hesitate to contact our office on (066) 7102887 or email us at info@thehrsuite.com. For more information visit www.thehrsuite.com or read our blog ■

Coca-Cola HBC appoints Simon Fitzpatrick as new general manager

Coca-Cola HBC has appointed Simon Fitzpatrick as the new general manager of its Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland operations.

Fitzpatrick, who hails from Waringstown, Co Down, has worked for Coca-Cola HBC for over 20 years.

Beginning his career as a business developer, Fitzpatrick rose through the business until his most recent role as head of international key accounts across all 29 Coca-Cola HBC markets.

In his new role Fitzpatrick will lead the beverage business, which is the strategic bottling partner to The Coca-Cola Company for the island of Ireland.

This includes distributing a 24/7 beverage portfolio with locally owned brands including Deep RiverRock and Fruice.

According to Coca-Cola HBC he will also spearhead the beverage business’ sustainability priorities including the transition to NetZero by 2040 and the rollout of the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), which goes live in Northern Ireland in 2027

Coca-Cola HBC also produces and distributes Monster Energy; owns the premium spirits brand Finlandia Vodka; and is distributor for The Campari Group, Edrington, and coffee brands

Costa and Caffé Vergnano on the island of Ireland.

Fitzpatrick highlighted that with over 850 employees across the Island of Ireland, Coca-Cola HBC plays a vital role in energising the local economy.

“Our commitment to the local Irish and Northern Irish markets is reflected in our sustained investment in our people, the communities we serve, and our strong portfolio of globally known, locally produced beverages,” he said.

Fitzpatrick’s previous roles include sales director for the island of Ireland operations from 2020-2023, and commercial director for the Irish Football Association (IFA) from 2018-2019

Dungarvan Brewing Company appoints Cormac O’Dwyer as new head brewer and client relationship manager in 2010

Dungarvan Brewing Company has appointed Cormac O’Dwyer as its new head brewer and client relationship manager

In his dual role, he will ‘lead the brewing team’ in crafting new and exciting beers while ensuring that Dungarvan’s long-standing reputation for excellence is maintained, the company noted.

Additionally, he will serve as the primary point of contact for the company’s key accounts, helping

to foster and strengthen relationships with distributors, retailers, and customers alike.

Commenting on his new role, O’Dwyer, said: “The company’s commitment to quality and community is something that truly resonates with me and I’m eager to help bring our craft beer to even more people.”

O’Dwyer is one of the original founders of Dungarvan Brewing Company, which was established

Tom Dauber, CEO & owner of Dungarvan Brewing Company, added: “His deep knowledge of the brewing industry, combined with his strong interpersonal skills, makes him the perfect fit for both our brewing team and our client relations efforts.

“We look forward to seeing the continued success of Dungarvan Brewing Company under his leadership.”

Lakeland Dairies has announced the appointment of Niall Gallagher as its new chief operations officer (COO).

Gallagher will join Lakeland Dairies’ Senior Leadership Team and will report to Group CEO Colin Kelly

The dairy co-operative noted that he brings considerable experience from a long and successful operational and commercial career in the dairy industry

Most recently Gallagher served as integrated operations director with the global multinational IRCA food ingredients group where he was responsible for the European Sweet Business acquired from Kerry Group in 2023, the company added.

He previously held senior operations, strategic and

commercial roles at the Kerry Group, overseeing UK and Ireland operations across multiple production sites.

Gallagher also worked in various leadership capacities within the Kerry Group and at Procter & Gamble

Speaking on the appointment, Kelly, said: “He [Gallagher] is a COO with a proven track record of operational, commercial, and strategic delivery both nationally and internationally, and he will be a key part of delivering our ambitious strategy

“Our clear strategic focus remains on maximising the value of every litre of milk produced by our farmers and ensuring operational efficiencies at all our production sites. Niall is key to delivering on this strategic direction.”

Lakeland Dairies collects two billion litres of high-quality milk from 3,200 farm families across 17 counties in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The co-operative serves more than 100 global markets with 240 products.

Commenting on his appointment with Lakeland Dairies, Gallagher, said: “I’m delighted to be joining Lakeland Dairies at such an exciting time for the company as it continues on its added-value journey. The dairy industry and the co-operative movement play a huge role in enhancing the lives of people and communities across the country

“I know Lakeland Dairies is an innovative, progressive and forward-thinking organisation and I am looking forward to working

with everyone across the business to deliver on our strategic direction.”

A native of Co Sligo, Gallagherl holds Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) graduate in Chemical Engineering. He lives in Northern Ireland with his wife and their two children. ■

Lakeland Dairies appoints Niall Gallagher as new COO

He is currently the vice president of the Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association.

Simon Fitzpatrick, general manager, Coca-Cola HBC

Cormac O’Dwyer, head brewer and client relationship manager, Dungarvan Brewing Company

Niall Gallagher as its new chief operations officer

Line up with MACE brand ambassador Johnny Sexton and the rest of our winning team. You’ll be in

good company at MACE

At MACE, we’re looking for retailers who bring a smile to work every day to join our amazing team.

Our new stores are designed to be both bright and welcoming, to place you at the heart of the community in which you serve.

Speaking of service, our quality fresh foods and innovations meet the ever-changing needs of people and have been proven to drive profitable sales increases for MACE Retailers.

You will have the support of our experienced team around Ireland, along with award winning marketing to grow your business.

Take the first step and get in touch with Andrew or Liam who can give you a full introduction to what the MACE brand and MACE team can do for your business.

To find out more, contact:

Andrew McCann (Regional Manager North) amccann@bwg.ie / 086 041 4334

Liam Attridge (Regional Manager South) lattridge@bwg.ie / 086 852 1362

Donna Ahern recently caught up with Mary McBride, TWIG chairperson, to chat about how the grocery and retail industries have seen significant transformations for women over the years

Empowering women in the grocery industry

As we reflect on the progress made,it’s a timely reminder that while InternationalWomen’s Day has passed,the ongoing journey toward gender equality remains at the forefront of these industries,with women continuing to lead and shape the future

The grocery and retail industries have seen significant transformations over the years,and one initiative that stands out in promoting and supporting women in this space isToday’sWomen in Grocery (TWIG).With an aim to elevate the roles of women in the sector,TWIG fosters a strong sense of community,support,and professional growth TWIG was founded in 2016 and provides exciting networking opportunities targeted at a mainly but not exclusive to) female audience across the grocery trade.

Through its annual networking lunch event held every May,it provides a platform not just for networking,but to aid in raising the profile of women in grocery,drive understanding of the Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund’s (IGBF)’s work and to encourage more female leadership andparticipationinIGBFfundraisingeventsandinitiatives. This event brings together over 70 prominent and influential industry colleagues and attracts Industry leading speakers and sells out with a waiting list every year. It is now one of the most important pillars of the IGBF’s fundraising activities and going from strength to strength every year

ShelfLife recently spoke with Mary McBride,TWIG chairperson and head of retail at Richmond Marketing,to explore the organisation’s mission,its current initiatives, and the unique challenges women face in the grocery industry today.

McBride has spent the past two decades in the FMCG industry,climbing the ranks from individual contributor to people leader Her career spans time spent gaining

Mary McBride, TWIG chairperson and head of retail at Richmond Marketing

cross-functional expertise across a major blue-chip organisation,along with commercially leading some iconic Irish and global brands She tells me that she was delighted to be invited to join theTWIG committee in 2019 and was honoured to step up into what is now her second tenure as chairperson of TWIG

The inspiration behind joining TWIG

When asked about what inspired her involvement with the organisation,McBride,explains:“I was inspired to get involved firstly to support the work of the IGBF to help and assist those who need it most through this fundraising initiative In doing so,I aimed to anchor a female-led grocery industry event to elevate opportunities for women in this industry to come together,network,support,and hopefully inspire others to get involved and stay involved in this industry.”

The most rewarding part of leading the community, according to her,is building a supportive network:“The most rewarding part of leading theTWIG committee is building a strong and supportive network,celebrating the successes, learning from the challenges,and playing our part in shaping the future of the industry for women. ”

Key initiatives driving change

TWIG is deeply committed to supporting women in the grocery sector,and one of its standout initiatives is the TWIG Person of theYearAward.This initiative,now in its third year,recognises the unsung heroes of the industry those who contribute significantly behind the scenes but may not always be in the spotlight According to McBride:“Our key initiative is ourTWIG Person of theYearAward,which aims to recognise the unsung heroes of our industry,who are instrumental in delivering success behind the scenes but whose contributions may not always be visible to the wider industry We also support them through coaching and mentoring to continue to pave the way for women to thrive in their personal and professional lives.”

Evolution of women’s roles in the grocery sector

The role of women in the grocery and retail sectors has undergone notable change over the last decade,she highlighted.Women’s influence has grown in both visible leadership roles and significant behind-the-scenes contributions.Looking ahead,she envisions continued growth,with more women in executive positions.“Where I see it going is continued increased leadership representation, with more women in executive roles,”McBride says

“There will also be an even greater D&I (Diversity and Inclusion) focus on promoting and recruiting women into roles traditionally dominated by men.Due to the entrepreneurial spirit among women,I also anticipate a rise in women-owned grocery brands and businesses.”

Addressing unique challenges women face

Women in the grocery industry face specific challenges, including leadership stereotypes and the perception that their skills are often undervalued She explains:“Typically,the unique challenges women face in the grocery industry are leadership stereotypes,the perception of women’s soft skills outweighing their more strategic or operational skills,and unfortunately,a lack of credibility.”

TWIG helps address these challenges by fostering a supportive environment where women help one another

I aimed to anchor a female-led grocery industry event to elevate opportunities for women in this industry to come together, network, support, and hopefully inspire others to get involved and stay involved in this industry.

navigate the complexities of leadership and business ownership.She added:“Women have increasingly supported each other,creating an environment that continues to empower the next generation of women in grocery and retail.”

Advancing in the grocery industry: Advice for women

For women looking to advance in the grocery industry, McBride has practical advice:“Seek out mentorships from senior leaders (both male and female),don’t be afraid to take on leadership roles even if only informal,to gain a variety of experience Build a strong network around you and,most importantly,advocate for yourself.”

Creating an inclusive environment

The growing focus on diversity and inclusion in many industries is having a positive impact on the grocery sector, andTWIG plays an important role in this shift.She explains, “TWIG actively contributes to creating a more inclusive environment by elevating women’s profiles,providing opportunities to share experiences,and fostering professional growth to inspire our new generation of female leaders.”

TWIG’s goals for the future

Looking forward,TWIG has big ambitions for the next five years.“Our goal over the next five years is to continue building awareness of the amazing charitable work of the Irish Grocery Benevolent Fund,particularly through our fundraising event.We also aim to inspire women to achieve their ambitions and demonstrate the value of diverse leadership in driving industry success,”McBride highlights. She believes that the broader grocery industry can play a key role in supporting women’s ambitions:“The broader grocery industry can support women by investing in leadership development and career growth,promoting workplace policies

that offer flexibility,creating an inclusive culture,supporting networking and industry-wide events,and encouraging women to step into non-traditional roles.This will create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women to not only advance but thrive in leadership roles,”she says

Paving the way

The work thatTWIG is doing in the grocery sector is both essential and inspiring.By providing mentorship,fostering leadership opportunities,and advocating for a more inclusive environment,the organisation is helping to shape the future of the industry for women.AsTWIG continues to evolve,its impact on the grocery sector promises to only grow stronger, paving the way for future generations of female leaders in the industry The nextTWIG event for 2025 is set to take place Friday,2 May.

Sonya Lennon returns as the MC and will host a panel discussion with bold and inspiring leaders addressing an audience of key figures in Ireland’s grocery sector These distinguished industry leaders come from various backgrounds and include: Mandy Hennebry,commercial director,Green Isle Foods; Ciara Foxton,managing director, Circle K Ireland;Aaron Crinion,managing director,Kraft Heinz Ireland; Fiona Uyema,CEO & Founder,Fused by Fiona and Caoimhe McCabe,commercial director take home trade,revenue & category,Diageo IOI

This year’s theme,‘Courageous Conversations,’will invite the panel speakers to engage in discussions around the challenges and opportunities that have shaped them into the leaders they are today and what it means for the future of women in grocery.

TWIG is encouraging organisations to put forward their nominations for this award before 16April.Nominations can be made via the IGBF website: www.IGBF.ie/TWIG ■

TWIG Committee at the TWIG networking event 2025

&

Connect forum

Donna Ahern speaks to Margaret Dineen, CEO & founder, Blue Sky Food Consulting about what we can expect from this year’s Irish Food Trade Connect Forum, the annual event that brings professionals and innovators from the sector together to showcase achievements, exchange ideas, and address key industry challenges

Q: What are your main goals for this year’s Irish Food Trade Connect Forum, and how do you hope it will impact the Irish food industry?

A: We see domestic trade opportunities, whether through retail, food service, or investigating the options of food tourism experiences across the island of Ireland, as a significant trade base to support successful global market opportunities where a strong business performance has already been achieved. External stakeholders, whether customers, investors, or financial institutions, will be interested in a company’s ability to succeed.

Q: Can you tell us about any new features or changes attendees can expect at this year’s forum compared to previous events?

A: We feel feedback is pivotal to enhancing each year’s experience. Our survey had queries about exhibitor opportunities, which we are

trialling this year We wish to support a balance of having the ability to network strategically with a taste of a trade show. Attendants’ feedback is crucial to deliver the required experience for 2026 planning.

We are also pleased to have a motivational speaker, Doug Gordon, who has worked for many years in sales in the corporate finance world. Doug will speak on mindset and leadership strategies that enhance health, wealth, and an overall improved life balance while running a business. Self-care is the key to long-term success, whatever personal form this may look like. We aim to support our attendee’s journey both personally and professionally

Q: Who are some of the key speakers or experts involved, and what topics will they be covering during their sessions?

A: We have an insightful gathering for the Irish

food and drink industry, featuring a diverse lineup of speakers and panellists. Here’s an overview of the key participants and their expected contributions:

Niamh Lenehan, CEO, Agri-Food Regulator

Updates on price transparency initiatives and unfair trading practices regulations and enabling greater transparency in the food supply

Gary Quate, Food & Drink, Tourism NI Sharing success stories of food companies pivoting into sustainable food tourism.

Laura Harper, trading director

M&S Ireland and NI

M&S’s current Irish sourcing strategy and highlighting potential opportunities for Irish food and drink producers.

Edward Fagan, head of commercial, Compass Ireland

Exploration of opportunities within the Irish foodservice industry

Tom Cronin, founder of Rye River Brewing

Insights on building a successful craft brewery experience and growth strategies in both on-trade and off-trade markets.

Hazel McDwyer and James Morrin, Mason Hayes & Curran

Intellectual property brand protection and, contract manufacturing and dispute handling across the food supply chain.

Margaret Dineen, CEO

founder, Blue Sky Food Consulting

Panel Discussion: “Regional Voices, Shared Vision”

Moderated by the event organizer, Margaret Dineen this panel will feature:

Fiona Uyema, founder, Fused by Fiona

David Walsh Kemmis, founder, Ballykilcavan Brewery

Birgitta Hedin Curtin, founder, The Burren Smokehouse

Joe Harvey, CEO, Shannon Retail

Hosted by Ruth Scott, a well-known broadcaster serving as the master of ceremonies, this diverse lineup of speakers and panelists promises to offer valuable insights into various aspects of the Irish food and drink industry, including regulation, tourism, retail strategies, brand protection, and regional development.

Q: What role does the forum play in connecting Irish food producers with international markets, and how does it foster global trade opportunities?

A: Entrance to an international market requires careful consideration. Many factors must be considered to manage risk and be successful, such as market research, assessing regulatory requirements and trade barriers, predicting market volatility and economic fluctuations, while identifying appropriate distribution channels trusted to develop a brand abroad.

As well as providing insights and knowledge through our speakers, newsletters, and podcasts, we also fully believe in learning from each other, connecting and supporting each other from our own experiences. Most attendees will have experience in supplying to an international market. The shared experiences and the potential connections in export markets that many may have had will enable global trade opportunities through relationship development at the forum itself and hopefully long into the future.

Q: How have you seen the forum evolve since the inaugural event last year, and what milestones are you most proud of in terms of its growth and impact?

A: We are very proud of the growth to date and

have worked hard to create as much support as possible for the Irish Food and Drink sector The Irish Food Trade Connect Conversations podcast is now available on Spotify and YouTube In it, food industry players talk about their business growth journey and what can be learned from sharing this with others.

We are so proud to have sponsors such as Bank of Ireland, Mason Hayes & Curran, GS1 Ireland, and our media partner ShelfLife, who represent their commitment and support to the growth of the Irish Food and Drink industry trade and economy. We wish to thank them for their continued support.

Q: What are some of the biggest challenges facing the Irish food industry right now, and how does this event aim to address them?

A: Managing cost controls in running a business is the key concern we are witnessing right now. Regarding cost negotiations with trade, the industry players need to understand many aspects to communicate this clearly with their customers. From global commodity cost inflations, demand & supply, regulatory, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions, the trade forum supports experts across all fields who have experienced and still deal with such circumstances. We also bring regulatory, legal, and financial expertise to the event to help with the above concerns, with crosslearning with industry peers through networking being an organic effect.

Q: What initiatives are in place to support smaller or newer food businesses attending the forum, and how can they benefit from participating?

A: We are delighted to welcome a great mix of Food, Drinks, retail, food service, and educational attendees to the forum, where sharing experiences through connection and networking is the main aim. We also have a wide range of support information, such as Intertradeireland, Invest Northern Ireland, and Food Networks across many regions that are showcasing their members, such as Midlands Ireland, who have an array of Food producers exhibiting. We are also in consultation with the Local Enterprise office national food sector initiatives, which will further engage more recent food producers to attend and learn to trade more effectively

Q: How do you ensure the event stays relevant to current trends in the food industry, such as sustainability, innovation, and food safety?

A: We don’t just work with the Irish food and agribusiness trade - we’re immersed in it. Our team:

• Conducts daily conversations with producers, distributors, and retailers.

• Attends industry events and trade shows regularly

• Visits farms, processing facilities, and retail outlets to stay connected with ground realities.

This hands-on approach ensures we’re always attuned to the pulse of the industry We connect businesses with the right resources and partners to overcome challenges and create trade opportunities together

We’ve become more than just a support organisation - we’re a trusted partner in the growth and success of Ireland’s food and agribusiness sector Our experience-driven insights and practical approach continue to support actionable trade growth across the Irish Food Industry

Q: What do you hope attendees will take away from their experience? and professionally?

A: We hope attendees enjoy networking and building mutually beneficial relationships with each other in the Food and Drinks network by seeking advice, support, and hearing different perspectives.

Whether its friendly chats where you can ask for advice or offer your own pearls of wisdom or a chance to lend a helping hand to someone who might be facing a challenge you’ve overcome, this is what the forum supports along with an opportunity for trade opportunities to organically take place through the power of human connection.

We hope the attendees enjoy the experience and give us the opportunity to support them again for 2026. ■

Margaret Dineen, CEO & founder,

Blue Sky Food Consulting

Oh baby!

The

demand for baby products in Ireland has experienced significant growth in

recent years, driven by a steady rise in birth rates and a growing focus on the health and well-being of infants. Donna Ahern reports

As more families invest in quality baby care items, retailers are seeing increased interest in grocery products such as nappies, baby food, wipes, bathtime products and skincare. Irish parents are becoming increasingly conscious of the benefits of premium, eco-friendly, and sustainable baby products, which has influenced purchasing decisions. Additionally, online shopping has seen a surge, making it easier for parents to access a variety of products at competitive prices. According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO), Ireland saw 13,482 births registered in Q1 2024, reflecting a steady demand for baby products and highlighting the growth potential in the market for retailers catering to new parents and families.

Retailers that adapt to these evolving preferences, offering a diverse range of highquality baby products, will find ample opportunities to tap into this expanding market. Understanding consumer needs and keeping pace with trends will be essential for businesses aiming to capitalise on the growing demand for baby products in Ireland.

Customer preferences

As consumer awareness of nutrition and healthy eating habits continues to grow, there

“According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO), Ireland saw 13,482 births registered in Q1 2024.”

has been a noticeable shift towards organic and natural baby food options in the Irish market, according to recent research from Statista. Parents are increasingly looking for products free from artificial ingredients and preservatives and are willing to pay a premium for these choices. This trend is further driven by the growing preference for sustainable and environmentally friendly products, as well as the increasing focus on the health and wellbeing of children.

Trends in the market

The data indicated that the Baby Food Market is experiencing a rise in demand for organic and natural products, as parents become more health-conscious and seek out products with fewer additives and preservatives. This trend is expected to continue with a projected annual growth rate of 8.3% from 2021 to 2026. This trend is significant as it reflects a shift towards healthier and more sustainable options for babies, and industry stakeholders will need to adapt their offerings to meet this demand. Additionally, the growing popularity of online shopping and home delivery services is expected to further fuel the growth of the Baby Food Market in Ireland.

Local special circumstance

The Statista research shows that in Ireland, the Baby Food market is influenced by the country’s strong agricultural industry and high standards for organic and sustainable products, the research suggests. Additionally, the cultural emphasis on family and traditional home-cooked meals creates a demand for

natural and healthy baby food options. The strict regulatory framework for food safety and labelling also plays a role in shaping the market, promoting consumer trust and transparency. These unique factors contribute to the growing trend of locally sourced and organic baby food in Ireland, setting it apart from other markets.

“Parents tend to be highly loyal to baby products that their little ones enjoy, creating a strong bond between consumers and specific brands.”

Underlying macroeconomic factors

The Irish Baby Food Market is significantly influenced by macroeconomic factors, including global economic trends, national economic health, fiscal policies, and other financial indicators. Ireland’s strong economic growth and favourable regulatory environment have supported the growth of the Baby Food Market. Additionally, the country’s high birth rate and increasing working women population have also contributed to the demand for convenient and nutritious baby food products. However, the uncertain economic outlook due to Brexit and potential changes in trade policies may pose challenges for the market in the future.

Loyal customers

It is important to note, parents tend to be highly loyal to baby products that their little ones enjoy, creating a strong bond between consumers and specific brands. This loyalty ensures repeat business, benefiting both retailers and manufacturers as customers consistently return for trusted, preferred products.

To protect her delicate skin make Caldesene part of your everyday routine.

Milupa Cereals: Tailored for little tummies

Milupa understands that every step in your baby’s weaning journey is crucial. That’s why its delicious Milupa Cereals are specifically designed to support your little one through each stage With no added sugar or salt*, and free from artificial flavourings, colours, and preservatives**, it’s no wonder it is Ireland’s number one baby cereal brand^

Its exciting range of flavours ensures the best progression in both taste and texture, making mealtime a delightful experience for your baby. Milupa cereals are crafted to meet the needs of little tummies at every stage, all the way up to one year

Visit its product pages to explore the full range

*Contains naturally occurring sugars and salt only

**No artificial preservatives as required by legislation

^Nielsen Scantrack data MAT 2024

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

Breastfeeding is recommended from birth onwards with the introduction of appropriate weaning foods around six months and not before 17 weeks of age Talk to your healthcare professional.

Trusted by Irish parents for over 100 years

Cow & Gate has been trusted by Irish parents for over 100 years. Leveraging its expertise, we are excited to introduce a new range of baby foods to support every parent in their baby’s weaning journey. Its new baby food range offers convenient and nutritious options, including pouches, cups, and jars, allowing parents to continue their Cow & Gate journey. With no added salt, sugar*, or preservatives**, our foods provide a healthy start for little ones.

Retailers can benefit from stocking its trusted brand, known for its quality and commitment to baby nutrition. Its expert team is also available to support customers as they begin introducing food to their babies, ensuring a seamless and reassuring experience.

*Contains naturally occurring sugars and salt only

**No artificial preservatives as required by legislation

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

Breastfeeding is recommended from birth onwards with the introduction of appropriate weaning foods around six months and not before 17 weeks of age Talk to your healthcare professional.

Pure Baby Rice

Cow & Gate Banana, Apple, Strawberry, Kiwi Pouch

Milupa Sunshine Orange

Milupa Berry & Apple Bedtime

Cow & Gate Apple, Strawberry, Banana 4x100g Pot

Cow & Gate Green Peas Jar

IRELAND’S

CEREAL

30 CATEGORY FOCUS Baby

Ireland’s most awarded Follow-On Milk

Aptamil is the number one brand in the Baby Food category of Nielsen’s 2024 Top Brand Ranking.

Aptamil, Ireland’s number one recommended follow-on milk brand* which has different formats for every need, is specially formulated to help meet the increased nutritional needs of infants from six months of age alongside a weaning diet.

Aptamil Follow-On Milk is inspired by 50 years of breastmilk research, combining a patented blend of ingredients with a unique process. Its range of follow-on milk contains vitamin D to support the normal function of the immune system and iron to support normal cognitive development.

Aptamil Follow-On Milk has won 15 Best Follow-On Milk Awards in Ireland since 2013 versus other Follow-On Milks. *To verify, visit aptaclub.ie/number-one

Plant-based and plastic free wipes

WaterWipes® was created by founder Edward McCloskey after his newborn daughter developed a nappy rash on her sensitive skin. After an extensive search he couldn’t find a baby wipe that didn’t contain numerous ingredients, so he decided to make his own. Many years later and after a lot of hard work, testing, and scientific research, WaterWipes® was born. Made in Ireland using minimal ingredients, WaterWipes® are plantbased1 and plastic free wipes2 and are dermatologically approved by Skin Health Alliance. They are suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive skin.

1. The claim does not refer to the full product lifecycle nor the external plastic packing and relates to the wipes only

2. Wipe made from regenerated cellulose (viscose) utilising wood pulp as a precursor

Nappy rash prevention

Caldesene powder has been keeping babies’ bottoms happy by preventing and treating nappy rash for over 45 years. All parents or carers must do is simply cleanse and dry the affected area, and sprinkle on Caldesene after each nappy change or as directed by a doctor

Caldesene is the only medicated powder available for nappy rash and is available in 20g, 55g, and 100g formats. Available in pharmacies and supermarkets nationwide, for more information go to www.caldesene.ie

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

Breastfeeding is recommended from birth onwards with the introduction of appropriate weaning foods around six months and not before 17 weeks of age Talk to your healthcare professional.

Driving loyalty

Colm Rooney, country manager, Ireland outlines Shopper Intelligence’s three insights that show the varied and important roles the Baby Department plays for shoppers and retailers

In our infographic below the numbers look at the total ‘Baby Department (an aggregate of all five Baby categories that we measure) v the store average As you can see, the three insights highlight just how important it is for retailers to get this area right as it can drive traffic to the store but also keep them coming back (i.e. drive loyalty) if done well.

Also, while in-store, for the Baby categories where promotions are allowed, shoppers are also open to more volume/stocking up So, the Baby Dept really does it all: drives traffic, drives loyalty and drives spend. ■

Cream of the crop

As people’s tastes and priorities shift towards health, flavour, and sustainability, the dairy industry is stepping up with innovative products and a stronger focus on locally sourced, organic, and eco-friendly practices, writes Shauna Bernard

Dairy remains fundamental to Irish food culture, with 92% of Irish adults consuming it daily, according to a survey by the European Milk Forum (EMF). Two-thirds consider meals incomplete without it, highlighting the deep-rooted role dairy plays in daily nutrition. Consumers prioritise both health and taste, with 77% recognising its nutritional benefits and 66%

Smart recovery

Guidance from the HSE says that just two hours and thirty minutes of moderate exercise a week (a week!) can help improve bone and heart health, cognitive function and mental health for adults – however less than half of us are meeting the guidelines1. Now spring’s just around the corner and the sun’s made a welcome return, there’s no excuse not to get your shorts and runners on, get out into the fresh air and start your exercise drive for ’25.

Clearly, whether you’re taking a walk round the block, building up to a 5k run, training for the Dublin Marathon or playing rugby for your country - like National Dairy Council Ambassador Garry Ringrose - effective recovery following your exercise is crucial for maintaining peak performance.

Garry Ringrose an ambassador for the NDC promoting nutritious Irish milk as a natural solution to support both rehydration, muscle recovery and muscle growth.

Ringrose said: “When people ask me what gives me an edge as a professional rugby player, they’re surprised when I say ‘milk’ – but

valuing its rich flavor

As dietary preferences evolve, the dairy sector has responded with innovations in lactose-free, high-protein, and functional dairy products. Sustainability is also a key focus, with producers striving to reduce carbon footprints and enhance animal welfare.

Meanwhile, Irish shoppers are increasingly drawn to locally sourced and organic dairy,

milk is nature’s perfect sports drink.”

Am an ambassador, Ringrose calls on consumers to ‘always choose milk with the NDC Trademark’ as it guarantees that the quality milk is produced in the Republic of Ireland.

Post-exercise, there are three things that athletes – at all levels - need to bear in mind:

• Refuelling: Milk contains lactose, a carbohydrate that is the primary fuel burned during exercise, helping to restore energy levels after a workout.

• Repairing: Milk is rich in protein, specifically casein and whey, both of which contribute to normal muscle growth and maintenance, aiding in the repair of muscles that break down during intense physical activity

• Rehydrating: With approximately 87% water, milk is an excellent fluid for rehydration. It also contains electrolytes, such as potassium, which are lost through sweat during exercise The rehydration properties of milk, especially skimmed milk, are a growing area of interest in sports nutrition research.

aligning with broader trends in sustainability and provenance. A recent report from Teagasc economists reveals a strong recovery in dairy farm incomes for 2024, driven by a 15% rise in milk prices, which is expected to boost average farm income by 80%.

With ongoing growth and new developments, Ireland’s dairy industry remains a staple in households across the country

Dr Mary Harrington, senior nutritionist, National Dairy Council, said: “Milk provides a complete source of protein - rich in casein and whey - which contains all the essential amino acids the body needs for muscle recovery and muscle growth.

“Milk also contributes to both energy and nutrient intake. It’s a convenient source of nutrients for those getting involved in exercise training and, as a “complete” protein source, milk contains all of the essential amino acids necessary for optimal recovery

“While research continues to explore milk’s full potential in sports recovery, the evidence so far is compelling. Milk is a natural, effective, and science-backed recovery option that athletes should consider after every workout –it really is nature’s sports drink.”

Top Tips for peak performance:

• Balance Your Diet: energy and nutrient needs vary depending on gender, age, body size and activity levels. A healthy balanced diet is essential for all sports enthusiasts for meeting nutritional demands

• Be sensible: there are no shortcuts –effective training and sensible eating are key If needed a sports dietitian can tailor foods, fluid and supplement advice to specific needs and goals.

• Fuel up: 2-3 hours before training/match e.g pasta or rice with tomato-based sauce and chicken; baked potato with beans and cheese; or cereal with milk/yogurt

• Protein power: protein foods (milk, lean meat, eggs, beans, cheese, yogurt) should be included at each meal time

• Hydrate Early: Drink fluids immediately after exercise to replenish lost water and electrolytes. Water or skimmed milk are good options

• Recover well: effective recovery is essential to perform your best in the next session.

Pasture-based dairy

The National Dairy Council (NDC) champions the role of quality pasture-based dairy and its nutrition benefits in supporting healthier, more active living. A farmer-funded representative body that works to promote and protect Ireland’s dairy reputation at home and abroad and believes in a future in which Irish dairy is recognised and trusted as a vital part of people’s diet and general health across the life

stages, indispensable to Ireland’s social and economic wellbeing.

The NDC raises awareness of Irish dairy’s impact against the pillars of sustainability –economy, society, community and environment – developing understanding of what sustainability means for Irish dairy and showcasing the initiatives that are improving the industry’s performance. The NDC works to promote the nutritional benefits of dairy products and their place in a healthy, balanced and sustainable diet. It counteracts misinformation and is a source of trusted nutritional information, as well as recipes which celebrate Irish dairy

Nutritional focus

Yoplait, the yogurt expert, has kicked off the New Year with two new reformulated recipes on its leading kid’s brands, Petits Filous and Frubes, to ensure that its products are even healthier, yet still retain the same delicious taste

Since 2015, Yoplait has improved the health credentials of its kids’ portfolio globally by reducing sugars by 25%.

“Petits Filous and Frubes are wellestablished and much-loved brands for many families in Ireland. These same families have come to expect our unmatched product quality and premium taste which is an integral guarantee for all Yoplait brands.

“Equally, it is important to us to guarantee healthier products on an ongoing basis and in this instance, it has managed to reduce sugar

“Diary: Lots of interesting metrics we could look at, but just focusing on our ‘Category Role Matrix’ included here, we see that Dairy categories are not all the same. In fact they can play very different roles for shoppers and therefore retailers. High engagement categories like Deli Counter Cheese, Chilled Desserts and PrePacked Speciality Cheese should be tempting shoppers with new/ premium, as there are ‘spend driving’ characteristics here. Alternatively, the likes of Milk, Eggs, Cheese, BSM are ‘Trip Drivers’ –they very important items on the shopping list, but less engagement instore so more about ease of shop and availability Are we settingup our Dairy categories according to the wishes of shoppers?”

Colm Rooney, country manager Ireland, Shopper Intelligence

without resorting to adding thickeners, sweeteners, processed fibres or flavours.

“Yoplait’s ongoing mission is also to educate consumers about the nutritional value of fortified kids’ yogurts and attract ‘lost consumers’ back into the category,” explains Deirdre Lowry, brand manager, Yoplait Ireland.

“International reports inform us that many children are at risk of poor development and growth because they were lacking key nutrients such as Vitamin D, Calcium and Iodine, all of which are found in fortified kids’ yogurts. These same insights showed that some parents were switching from kids’ yogurts into biscuits, cakes and confectionery – all of which are low in essential nutrients,” she said.

Yoplait will continue with its education and awareness campaign into 2025 and its kids’ brands will continue to drive relevance and excitement with consumers.

This month, Petits Filous will roll out a fresh new-look which emphasises the health credentials of the brand with a focus on bone health and Frubes is running an on-pack promotion offering a once in a lifetime family trip to Japan, a first for the kids’ yogurt category

“If we are able to re-educate about the positive nutritional benefits, showcase our brands to consumers and encourage them to switch back, we have identified a significant potential sales opportunity for retailers over the next five years,” added Lowry

Local journey

From the beginning, Noel Barcoe, owner and founder, has had the aim of producing something a little different to what is already on the market. The Village Dairy produces a range of Conventional, Organic, and Jersey milk products including Buttermilk and Cream.

The Village Dairy collects milk directly from farms and we truly believe that the highquality end product cannot be achieved without the support of the local farmers and their own passion for producing high quality raw milk.

The Village Dairy has built its little dairy up from word of mouth over the last 10 years, and hope to continue working hard to maintain the high quality of standards while working with suppliers, customers, and the whole team at The Village Dairy

Afterall, it is a journey of nearly ten years brought together by all past and present suppliers, customers, and employees.

The Village Dairy – Where Milk Matters.

Natural goodness

Old MacDonnells Farm was the original producer of “Live” yoghurt in Ireland. Starting in 1978 they continue to produce authentic natural food today. Started by Brian MacDonnell when he was farming goats on the foothills of Sugarloaf Mountain, Co Wicklow producing milk and cheese for sale Brian quickly added cow’s milk and produced the cow’s milk yoghurt from there and added salads not too far after Feargal Quinn gave the much-needed start into retail in Superquinn Bray in 1980

Part of local initiative “Wicklow Naturally” they are currently producing “set” Natural and Strawberry LIVE yoghurt in 250grm and >>

480grm and Tzatziki, two variants of hummus – Chilli and Coriander and Greek Style and a Crunchy Coleslaw. There are more soft cheeses available seasonally

The yoghurt remains popular to those who require a natural gut friendly alternative, those who are affected with lactose intolerance or those looking for a quick easy breakfast, lunch, or snack.

Still very much an artisan producer, the business like the wider industry has gone through a period of significant change in recent years as it re-invents itself to modernise and compete in current market conditions as it starts to gain ground.

Very much known as a healthy functional product recommended by doctors, the brand is also fun and tongue and cheek which is vital for maintaining the homemade and human connection which helps cut through the noise of louder brands with its customers, especially through social media.

Old Macs is listed in Supervalu and has presence in Dunnes stores, Spar There is a focus on independents (100+) in the wider Leinster area and presence via independent distributors on the west coast.

The rise in popularity across the sector is driving growth again for the business and confirms yoghurt as Le lait de la vie eternelle (The Milk of eternal life) as the French call it because it is simply good for you - when it is natural. (Some “natural” yoghurts have 18+ ingredients listed; Old Macs has 3.)

More info from info@oldmacdonnellsfarm.ie

Fuel better

Nestle Lindahls has launched its Good Move campaign in Ireland with a PR event and Paid social support. In today’s fast-paced world, consumers are making micro-decisions that impact their health and well-being, whether it’s swapping doom scrolling for lunchtime strolling or hitting your steps instead of sitting on the bus, these small choices add up and can significantly influence our health journeys Lindahls is committed to recognising and celebrating these everyday moments and supporting all fitness journeys, no matter how big or small they may be

The Good Move campaign highlights the

Nutrition for life

As Ireland’s number one dairy brand, Avonmore products are enjoyed on a daily basis in households across Ireland.

Avonmore’s continued success comes from its commitment to high quality products, a deep understanding of the consumer and their needs, and continuous innovation.

Enjoyed by families nationwide for over 50 years, Avonmore’s expertise in dairy extends across Milk, Cream, Soup and Butter with key growth products including Avonmore Super Milk, Avonmore Protein Milk and Avonmore Whipped Cream.

Avonmore’s range of fortified milks offers a wealth of nutritional benefits for every lifestage enabling consumers to easily incorporate the benefits of important nutrients such as protein, vitamin D & folic acid into their everyday diet through fortified milks such as Avonmore Protein Milk and Avonmore Super Milk.

Avonmore Super Milk has a key role to play in the fresh milk sector Given that we don’t get enough sunshine in Ireland because of its northerly latitude, we don’t get enough vitamin D.

From young children to older families, vitamin D is incredibly important across every lifestage Avonmore Super Milk is enriched with vitamin D which not only supports our bone health but our immune system too. Avonmore Super Milk is also enriched with vitamins B & E, extra Calcium and Folic Acid making it a great choice for all the family

Avonmore Protein Milk has gone from strength to strength since its launch in 2014 and has an extensive range of ten skus, of various flavours, formats, and added benefits, appealing to everyone involved in sports and exercise

Avonmore Protein Milk is fresh Irish milk with added whey and casein protein, vitamins and minerals. It is consumed by those who seek additional protein in their diets.

Mooju, Ireland’s number one flavoured milk brand, is another successful brand in the portfolio Popular with a younger audience, success is built on its quirky brand personality and its fantastic taste

Avonmore Slimline Milk with added iron and vitamins meets the nutritional needs for those looking for a 0% fat option. Avonmore Lactose Free completes the value-added milks portfolio ensuring quality, taste and nutrition for all ages and stages of life.

Avonmore Cream continues to perform well and is the No 1 branded cream in the market. Key seasonal occasions where families come together e.g Easter, Summer and Christmas remain important events for Cream. Last year Avonmore launched its new look savoury range to complement the sweet range offering, providing consumers with an extensive range to suit their cooking and baking needs.

With such a wide range of product offerings, it’s no wonder Avonmore continues to be Ireland’s No one Dairy Brand.

importance of refuelling with Lindahls’ highprotein, fat-free, low-sugar Kvarg. Packed with 15g of protein in every delicious pot, Lindahls offers a broad range of indulgent and fruity flavours, such as Raspberry, Vanilla, White Chocolate, and Stracciatella to suit all preferences. As well as Kvarg, Lindahls has its Pro+, Protein Pudding, Protein Drinks and most recently Protein Pouches ranges which are also widely available in Ireland.

Happy gut

Enjoy a healthy start to your day with the #1 Yoghurt brand in Ireland. The Activia Breakfast range with calcium, fibre and live cultures reaching your gut alive. From the fruit range

with carefully selected ingredients to no added sugar and 0% fat there’s an Activia for everyone Activia are passionate about happy guts and how it plays a significant role in our bodies. With a unique blend of five ferments, there are billions of live cultures strong enough to survive until they reach your gut. We have been doing this for more than 30 years, that’s why Activia keeps on innovating and finding delightful new ways to love your guts. Give your gut a healthy morning.

Activia is a source of calcium & protein.

Calcium contributes to the normal function of digestive enzymes and normal energy-yielding metabolism. Enjoy as part of a balanced diet & lifestyle #1 brand: Nielsen data 29.12.24.

Avonmore range of products

Pure tradition

Connacht Gold, a name synonymous with quality and tradition, has been a staple in Irish households for decades. Churning milk since 1897, Connacht Gold has perfected the art of making the best dairy products, ensuring that every drop of milk and pat of butter meets the highest standards of excellence.

Connacht Gold offers a variety of butter options to suit different tastes and uses, whether it is Pure Irish butter for cooking with, Unsalted butter for making desserts, or Garlic & Herb Butter with a delicious steak. Each

product maintains the same high quality and delightful flavour that Connacht Gold is known for.

The most renowned of these products is Connacht Gold Half Fat Butter, which is real butter containing no vegetable oils or chemically treated fats. Consumers get all the great taste of butter, with all the health benefits of half the fat. And it spreads from the fridge! Connacht Gold Half Fat butter is available nationwide in 454g and 227g format sizes.

Additionally Connacht Gold has a range of milk products sold in the Northwest of Ireland,

from classic wholesome fresh milk, to lactose free, enriched and more. And in April 2024, Connacht Gold introduced Mór Protein, a 330ml chocolate or strawberry flavoured milkshake with 20g of protein, and no added sugar

Connacht Gold’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation continues to make it a beloved brand in the dairy industry

Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, Connacht Gold butter is the perfect choice for adding a touch of Irish excellence to your culinary creations. ■

Avonmore range of products

Connacht Gold half fat butter

Deadline for entries: March28th

Driving Grocery Forward

Venue: Royal Marine Hotel, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. Enter or nominate here: www.groceryawards.ie

Date of Event: May 14th 2025

For seat/table sales, and sponsorship opportunities please contact; markmorgan@mediateam.ie and/or ianmulvaney@mediateam.ie

Categories available for sponsorship: Checkout Manager / Customer Service Manager of the Year, Best Butcher Manager, Off-Licence Manager

The Green light

As sustainability continues to shape consumer choices, corporate responsibility and long-term sustainability strategies remain key drivers in decision-making within the retail and FMCG sectors. Donna Ahern reports

As the climate crisis intensifies, many consumers are shifting their purchasing habits to support more sustainable brands and products. A recent report by Accenture, titled The Sustainable Consumer: Bridging the Gap Between Aspiration and Action, found that 80% of consumers want to live more sustainably, and 75% are urging businesses to do more to help

Research in Ireland further emphasises the demand for businesses to take action, with a particular focus on improving packaging recyclability

In response to these eco-conscious consumers, many brands have made significant strides in enhancing their sustainability efforts. Notably, the grocery retail and FMCG sectors have embraced Re-turn, Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS). In February, Re-turn celebrated a major milestone: the return of one billion drink containers, a number that, if laid end-to-end, would circle the globe 4.7 times.

Return rates continue to surge

The one billionth container was returned at Lidl in Kilcarbery, Dublin, on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. Daily return rates continue to surge, from thousands of returns in February 2024 to over five million returns on several occasions this year, just one year after the scheme’s launch.

Ciaran Foley, CEO of Re-turn, commented: “It’s a fantastic achievement to have one billion drinks containers returned, and it’s great to see growing support as evidenced by the increasing daily returns.”

The scheme has also had a significant impact on communities. According to Foley,

more than 2,200 community initiatives nationwide have benefited from fundraising through the DRS.

“DRS is already making a real difference— recycling rates are improving, litter is decreasing, and the environment is becoming cleaner Community groups, schools, charities, and sports clubs are benefiting greatly from the refunds,” added Alan Dillon, Minister of State for Small Business, Retail, and the Circular Economy.

Supporting members

Furthermore, in its A Sustainable Future for Irish Retail - Retail Ireland Strategy 2023-2026 Retail Ireland outlined that environmental sustainability will be a key focus of the sector in the coming years. The organisation aims to support its members as they continue transforming their operations by improving energy efficiency, using more recycled

materials, reducing plastic use, and championing the circular economy.

Tackling environmental issues has become both a social and commercial priority The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the crucial role retail plays in Irish society and local communities. Retail Ireland intends to work with key stakeholders to promote the development of these communities, support town centre investments, and foster attractive, liveable, and sustainable urban environments.

Advocating for policies

One of the group’s key priorities is advocating for policies that support decarbonisation and investment in the circular economy. Retail Ireland noted that it will work closely with its members to reduce the sector’s carbon footprint and will continue to push for government support to facilitate this transition.

To promote a sustainable environment and communities, the business organisation that represents Ireland’s retail sector will ‘champion and drive campaigns and initiatives that: Showcase the sector’s sustainability initiatives and commitments, including sharing best practice Highlight the role of retail in supporting the social and commercial life of our villages, towns and cities.’

Sustainability CATEGORY FOCUS

Sustainability continues to be a driving factor for BWG Foods

BWG Foods, one of Ireland’s leading retail and wholesale companies, is passionately committed to sustainable practices, which is demonstrated through the incorporation of innovative initiatives in every facet of our operations as part of a robust ESG Programme entitled ‘Responsible Together’. Through this ambitious Programme, BWG recognises that it has a collective accountability to protect our environment through its actions, practices and relationships, and this is a responsibility BWG Foods takes very seriously Consequently, BWG Foods is constantly challenging itself and its nationwide network of more than 1,000 independent retailers and entrepreneurs operating under the SPAR, EUROSPAR, MACE, LONDIS and XL brands. Together the group is committed to exploring the opportunities presented by new concepts, enhanced technology and innovative, as well as sustainable solutions to better serve its retailers and the communities in which they are embedded.

The next evolutionary step in BWG’s sustainability journey is focusing on the reduction of the environmental footprint across all development projects, aligning with its commitment to meaningful environmental actions. As part of BWG’s sustainability endeavours, the leading retail and wholesale company has long been a leader in the industry when it comes to operating one of the most sustainable delivery fleets in Ireland and its updated strategy will cement its existing achievements and propel BWG Foods longer-term goals.

Retail Development team

It continues to support retailers and encourage the incorporation of energy saving upgrades through its Retail Development

Butlers holistic approach to sustainability

Sustainability lies at the heart of Butlers Chocolates, an Irish family-owned company, committed to crafting delicious premium chocolates and confectionery while prioritising environmental responsibility

As a verified member of Origin Green, Butlers Chocolates embeds sustainable practices across all areas of the business. One of Butlers Chocolates’ most significant achievements is its commitment to sustainable and local sourcing practices, using only sustainably sourced cocoa, fairtrade coffee and zero palm oil. Butlers Chocolate Café takeaway cups are 100% recyclable and sourced in Ireland and the company actively supports the Conscious Cup campaign, encouraging and incentivising the use of reusable cups.

Butlers strives to reduce single-use plastics, ensuring packaging is both practical and environmentally responsible This commitment extends to packaging

team. This is the backdrop to BWG’s innovative Next Generation Refrigerated (NGR) display case development, which has been installed in a large number of stores and supermarkets throughout Ireland.

BWG Foods conducts a significant number of retail fitouts annually, which incorporates upgrading existing stores and supermarkets and its equipment and emphasises the importance of environmental responsibility and resource usage during these refits. In close collaboration with suppliers, when planning for these refits, a focus is always placed on reducing the environmental impact in all elements. The fluctuating energy costs enveloping the Irish landscape is, naturally, of enormous concern to Irish retailers. One of the main expenses to all retail stores and supermarkets are refrigeration costs as they comprise, on average, 70% of their energy consumption.

In response to these costs, BWG’s Retail Development team focussed on a revolutionary concept on reducing energy consumption in refrigeration, the ‘Next Generation Refrigeration’ (NGR) display case The NGR cabinet, developed through months of collaboration and testing and in conjunction with Anglo Irish refrigeration and Wirth Research, an aero dynamics and thermal dynamics specialist firm with a background in

innovations, with the company continuously seeking sustainable alternatives to reduce its ecological footprint. Recent achievements include the introduction of a fully recyclable paper wrap for its beloved twist-wrapped truffles, a change that will eliminate approximately 15 tonnes of waste annually At the factory, waste is managed in a way that minimises environmental impact. Food waste is composted, with zero-waste-to-landfill.

Butlers Chocolates’ sustainability efforts

Formula 1 racing, utilises airflow movements to enhance energy efficiency. Intelligent controllers and a monitoring system result in significant improvements in energy consumption and the overall reduction in a standard store’s energy bills is 25%, which represents a significant reduction in their bills, their use of unnecessary electricity and represents a significant reduction in their carbon footprint. This cutting-edge technology has been installed in more than 100 BWG stores across Ireland and was awarded the NACS European Convenience Retail Sustainability Award in June 2024 for its pioneering advancement.

Energy reduction and solar

BWG is also committed to further sustainability initiatives and practices and has partnered with Flogas Energy since 2023, with Flogas supplying 100% renewable energy All electricity supplied to BWG sites under the current electricity supply agreement with Flogas is sourced from renewable energy and verified through the CRU’s latest fuel mix disclosure.

This ensures that BWG’s energy supply is fully backed by certified renewable sources, supporting its commitment to sustainability and a lower carbon footprint.

Further actions

In addition to these actions, it has a diverse range of initiatives that feed into the wider ESG strategy consisting of five key pillars: Climate and Environment, People, Community, Health and Sourcing. These include continuing to transition of its fleet to renewable transport, further donation of surplus product to FoodCloud and Too Good To Go as well as community-based initiatives as the group, and its nationwide network of community retailers, continue to integrate these principles into every aspect of its operation, ensuring a sustainable approach in all that it does.

incorporate a range of environmentally conscious initiatives which include;

• Solar power: The Butlers Chocolates factory is home to over 7,000 sq. meters of solar panels, providing more than 20% of the facility’s annual energy needs—equivalent to the size of the Aviva Stadium pitch.

• Sustainable sourcing: Cocoa is sustainably sourced, and coffee served in Butlers Chocolate Cafés is Fairtrade certified.

• Electric vehicle adoption: The company is transitioning its vehicle fleet to electric, reducing its carbon footprint.

• Sustainable packaging: The ribbons on Butlers Easter Eggs are made from recycled plastic bottles, and packaging has transitioned from recyclable plastic to paper alternatives.

• Zero palm oil: Butlers Chocolates has eliminated palm oil from all its products

• With sustainability as a core value, Butlers Chocolates continues to innovate and lead in responsible chocolate and confectionery production.

‘Next Generation Refrigeration’ (NGR) display case

Butlers Assorted Chocolates with recyclable paper twist-wraps

What recycling excellence means for Irish businesses in 2025

As the world marked World Recycling Day on 18 March, it is a timely reminder that sustainability is no longer a choice, but a responsibility, writes Gary Browne, Packaging Technologist, Repak

Businesses play a pivotal role in shaping a circular economy, and at Repak, we see first-hand the strides being made in packaging optimisation, waste reduction, and recycling excellence in Ireland.

More than just recycling: The fullcircle approach

At Repak, we believe that excellence in recycling goes beyond waste management—it begins with how packaging is designed, produced, and reused. Through our Prevent and Save Programme, Repak members are empowered to optimise packaging, reduce waste at source, and ensure that materials are fully recyclable where possible This initiative helps companies assess their packaging footprint and implement practical strategies to enhance sustainability while maintaining efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Similarly, the Plastic Pledge Programme encourages businesses to take active steps in reducing plastic use and transitioning towards more sustainable alternatives. By committing to minimising plastic use correct waste segregation, reducing complexity in packaging formats and using recycled plastic content, companies contribute to a stronger circular economy, and resources are kept in continuous use for as long as possible

These programmes provide businesses with the tools and knowledge they need to meet evolving environmental targets while reinforcing their commitment to sustainability

What Does Recycling Excellence Look Like in 2025?

With ambitious EU recycling targets approaching, businesses must rethink their approach to waste and sustainability

Excellence in recycling is about meeting evolving regulatory requirements, innovation, efficiency, and a commitment to a circular economy. Companies that lead in 2025 will be those that embed sustainability into their packaging design, supply chain operations, and consumer engagement strategies.

Defining excellence in recycling for Irish businesses

1. Full compliance with packaging regulations: Businesses must stay ahead of evolving regulations. This includes Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) compliance, single-use plastics bans, and proper waste segregation under EU rules. Clear labelling and transparency will ensure businesses align with the Green Claims Directive, ensuring consumers receive accurate recycling information. Companies that actively track and

manage waste improve both compliance and sustainability efforts.

2. Packaging optimisation & circular design: Reducing packaging waste starts with smarter design. Businesses can cut costs and material use by using lightweight materials, optimising pack dimensions, and eliminating unnecessary packaging space. Standardising packaging across products also improves supply chain efficiency and reduces waste.

3. Engaging employees and consumers: Sustainability starts within a business. Educating employees on proper waste segregation and recycling fosters responsibility, while clear consumer labelling encourages better recycling habits.

4.Increased use of recycled content: Businesses should prioritise recyclable materials and incorporate Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) content to support the circular economy. Where multi-material packaging is necessary, designs should allow

for easy separation and recycling. Exploring reusable and refillable packaging models also helps reduce waste. Transparent labelling and consumer education drive better recycling participation and help meet EU recycling targets.

Repak’s members are supported in their sustainability journey through tailored programmes that help them optimise packaging and meet compliance requirements. The benefits of achieving recycling excellence extend beyond environmental impact:

• Cost savings: Optimised packaging reduces material and disposal costs.

• Regulatory compliance: Avoid future fines and legal complications by adhering to waste management laws

• Brand reputation: Consumers are increasingly loyal to brands that prioritise sustainability

• Circular economy contribution: Meeting Ireland’s ambitious 55% plastic recycling target by 2025 and 60% overall packaging recycling target strengthens the nation’s green credentials.

Leading the way to a greener future Ireland’s business community has a unique opportunity to set a global benchmark for recycling excellence. By embracing circular packaging, optimising waste management, and maximising recycling, we can collectively move towards a truly sustainable future.

This World Recycling Day, Repak calls on all businesses to reflect on their sustainability journey and take bold steps towards recycling excellence. Through innovation, collaboration, and commitment, Irish businesses can lead the way in creating a cleaner, greener future.

For guidance, resources, and support in achieving best-in-class recycling practices, visit: www.repak.ie

Gary Browne, Packaging Technologist, Repak

THIS COULD BE THE MOST SORTED RECYCLING DAY EVER

Global Recycling Day is March 18th and we’re asking all businesses to act now to ensure all recyclable packaging is clean, dry and loose.

We’d like to thank our 3,500 members for funding the recycling of their waste. Non-members, why not join us today and together we can help Ireland reach its 2025 EU recycling target?

Contact our Membership Team today on membership@repak.ie Visit repak.ie for more information.

FOCUS Sustainability

Revolutionary home-recyclable paper refill pack

JDE Peet’s Coffee continues to invest behind its revolutionary home-recyclable paper refill pack for the instant coffee category in Irish retail

Following a successful year of research, development, and testing in 2024, JDE Peet’s was the first major UK and Ireland coffee brand to switch from plastic to paper refills marking a breakthrough for sustainable packaging in the instant coffee category, with a pack that can now be recycled at home

The cutting-edge packaging technology

is over 85%* paper meaning it can be put in home recycling bins and has been specially developed to keep the coffee fresh for 15 months, so consumers can enjoy the same high-quality taste experience they know and love What’s more, it is 97% less packaging and 85% less CO2e than a standard 200g glass jar – reducing packaging waste. Moreover, reducing consumers trips to their local recycling depot.

The paper packaging replaced the existing plastic packs for Kenco and L’OR, and they launched in retailers in Ireland in January 2024

For more information on Common Grounds visit: www.jdepeets.com/sustainability/

About JDE Peet’s:

JDE UK & Ireland is a subsidiary of JDE Peet’s, the world’s leading pure-play coffee and tea company, serving approximately 4,500 cups of coffee or tea per second. JDE Peet’s unleashes the possibilities of coffee and tea in more than 100 countries with a portfolio of

Aldi Ireland and Too Good To Go mark two years of partnership

Aldi Ireland and Too Good To Go are celebrating the second anniversary of their strong partnership, marking a key milestone in their joint efforts to combat food waste. Over the past two years, this collaboration has successfully saved over 250,000 Surprise Bags of food from going to waste, making a substantial impact on the environment and communities across Ireland.

Key insights on surprise bags saved through the partnership

Over the past two years, the highest number of bags were saved in December each year, highlighting the importance of the service during the crucial pre-Christmas period. Fridays have also consistently been the top day of the week for saving food, indicating strong community engagement at the end of the week.

The record for most Surprise Bags saved in a single month was set in the beginning of the partnership in December 2023. The highest number of bags saved in a single day was on 24 December 2024, further highlighting the service’s significant impact during the period just before Christmas.

Environmental impact

The partnership has also made a significant environmental impact, avoiding a total of 675,000kg of CO2e emissions, contributing to a more sustainable future. For context, the average person in Ireland emits 78kg of CO2e per year

In terms of land use, the partnership has avoided 700,000 m2 annually This is equivalent to the area of 56,000 single parking lots in Europe, 2,682 tennis courts, or 98 football fields.

Additionally, the partnership has avoided 202,500,000 litres of water, which is equivalent to 1,257,764 filled bathtubs or 81 Olympic-sized swimming pools. As fellow SDG Champions for the 2024-25 programme, ALDI and Too Good To Go are working together to tackle food waste nationwide while also minimising its impact on the environment. ALDI has committed to reducing its food waste by 50% by 2030 through reporting, waste reduction, food redistribution and exploring value chains, resulting in less consumable food being sent to anaerobic digestion. In 2018, ALDI was among the first supermarkets to join the Retail Action Group’s Food Waste Charter, committing to a longterm approach to tackling food waste, recommitting to this in 2023.

Commenting on this milestone, Rachel Nugent, national sustainability manager, Aldi Ireland, said: “We are thrilled to celebrate this

over 50 brands including Kenco, Douwe Egberts, Tassimo and L’OR in the UK & Ireland. Read more about its journey towards a coffee and tea for every cup at www.jdepeets.com

milestone with Too Good To Go Saving over 250,000 Surprise Bags in the past two years is a testament to our commitment to reducing food waste and supporting our communities –this is just the beginning of the work we are determined to do This achievement emphasises the dedication of our team and the incredible support from our customers, who have embraced this initiative wholeheartedly We look forward to continuing this journey and making even greater strides in the fight against food waste through this partnership.”

Machaela O’Leary, sales manager, Too Good To Go Ireland, added: “At Too Good To Go, our mission is to ensure that good food is enjoyed, not wasted and working with Aldi Ireland has been incredibly rewarding. Together, we’ve made a meaningful impact in saving food from going to waste, while offering customers great meals at an affordable price. The success of this partnership demonstrates what we can achieve when businesses and communities come together for a common cause It’s a winwin for everyone involved, and we’re excited to keep evolving our partnership with Aldi.”

Aldi’s Too Good To Go Surprise Bags cost just €3.99 each and contain at least €12 worth of food approaching its sell–by or use-by date They can be saved at all Aldi’s 163 stores across Ireland.

To celebrate the milestone of 250,000 Surprise Bags being saved, Aldi and Too Good To Go are giving you the chance to win a €2,500 Aldi gift card. To enter, simply purchase any Aldi Surprise Bag on the Too Good To Go app between until 23 March and register your contact details and order number at https://contest.tgtg.to/ALDI

Kenco Smooth Instant Coffee

Kenco Rich Instant Coffee

L’OR Classique Smooth & Aromatic Instant Coffee

Rachel Nugent, national sustainability manager, Aldi Ireland and Machaela O’Leary, sales manager, Too Good To Go Ireland

PAPER REFILL PACKS

Launched in January 2024, paper refill packs marked a significant step on both Kenco and L’OR’s sustainability journey to minimise its footprint and positively impact people, the planet, and the future of coffee

CATEGORY FOCUS Sustainability

Sustainability at the heart of Brady Family & Green Farm

At a time when consumers are more conscious than ever about the environmental and social impact of the food they buy, brands have a responsibility to step up For Brady Family and Green Farm sustainability isn’t a ‘nice to have’—it’s a fundamental part of how it do business every single day.

Its purpose is simple: to bring better quality food to everyone, every day. But delivering on that promise means thinking beyond just the products Brady Family and Green Farm make. It means looking at how it sources its ingredients, how we make our food, and how the company can support better choices for its customers all while protecting the planet and looking after its people

Brady Family and Green Farm built its sustainability strategy around three pillars: Better Sourced, Better Made, and Better For You. Each of these pillars guides our decisionmaking, helping us create products that are not only high quality and full of flavour, but that also have a positive impact along the way

• Better sourced

The company will continue to work with its suppliers to ensure the highest levels of quality and animal welfare, environmental & social standards, and locally sourced produce.

• Better made

It will continue to improve the way we operate, while maintaining its traditional style and product quality, by reducing the company’s environmental impacts, implementing lean techniques, and providing a safe working environment.

• Better For You

Building a more sustainable food system, by producing healthier and more sustainable food for its consumers.

Proud to Be a B Corp

Brady Family and Green Farm are B Corp Certified since February 2023. B Corp calls for a truly integrated way of thinking, where sustainability strategy is fully embedded into business strategy B Corp focuses on the five key areas of Governance, Workers,

Britvic Ireland

Name: Sian Young

Role: Sustainable business and corporate affairs director

Company: Britvic Ireland

Community, Environment and Customers. It has long believed that the business community has a huge role to play when it comes to driving social and environmental change It knows that business success and doing the right thing are linked. The company’s goal is to bring better quality food to everyone every day while doing right by all of its stakeholders.

Playing the long game

If Brady Family and Green Farm do the right thing, even if sometimes it costs the company in the short term, it pays off over time It ‘fundamentally believes’ that – no matter how

Q. Can you tell me about your role in the company?

A. I am the sustainable business and corporate affairs director for Britvic Ireland, the Republic of Irelands largest soft drinks manufacturer My role is to drive sustainable business practises both internally and externally I am responsible for tracking our environmental impact and making sure we’re on track to deliver ambitious reduction targets. I also work with our customers to support their own sustainability journey as well as working with the wider business community to make sure we’re collaborating to create a greener future.

challenging the future looks. By staying true to its values and keeping sustainability at the heart of its brands, it is not just building a stronger company it is helping to build a better future for everyone The company’s outlook is not just the next five years, it is where it will be in 2040 Living by this view is what makes Brady Family and Green Farm truly sustainable

As it continues to evolve and improve, it invites its partners, customers and community to join it in shaping a more sustainable future.

According to the company: ‘Together, we can make better food for everyone, every day - while protecting the planet we all share.’

Britvic’s staff show ongoing commitment to biodiversity and sustainability

Ballygowan’s Newcastle West facility staff recently took part in an orchard planting event to mark Britvic’s ongoing commitment to biodiversity and sustainability The event follows the recent launch of Ballygowan Hint of Fruit Apple flavour, which is now available in selected retailers across Ireland and adds to the Ballygowan Hint of Fruit family which already has flavours including Strawberry, Summer Fruits, and Mango and Passion Fruit. The planting of 16 pollinator-friendly native apple trees is a welcome addition to existing biodiversity and sustainability initiatives at the Newcastle West facility, including the use of 100% renewable electricity sourced from a wind farm in Tipperary The Newcastle West site is also an official Area of Conservation for the native black honeybee following the installation of five colony beehives last May to mark World Bee Day.

Q. What specific actions has your company taken to reduce its carbon footprint, and how do you measure and track your progress toward achieving your sustainability goals?

A. Since 2017 we have reduced our direct carbon emissions in Ireland by over 85%. This has been done through a combination of greater manufacturing efficiency to reduce our energy usage and a move to more sustainable fuel alternatives such as renewable electricity and HVO. We even have a Corporate Power Purchase Agreement in place which means we source most of our renewable electricity locally, from a windfarm in Tipperary We track key metrics such as carbon, water and packaging on a monthly basis and review performance against our stated roadmaps which we have outlined in our annual Origin Green report.

Q. Can you provide details on how your supply chain management practices ensure environmental responsibility, and what steps are being taken to promote sustainability throughout your supplier network?

A. Our supply chain team are committed to improving our environmental footprint. There is often a win-win effect with our ongoing drive for efficiency with the goal of eliminating all forms of waste and we always include an assessment of environmental impact as part of investment decisions. We also work closely

Jeff Brennan, marketing manager, Ballygowan pictured at Ballygowan’s Newcastle West facility

Green Farm Simply Chicken Breast Slices

Brady Family Traditional Real Irish Ham Slices

Sian Young, sustainable business and corporate affairs director, Britvic Ireland

46 CATEGORY FOCUS Sustainability

with our suppliers around sustainability who are all required to sign up to responsible sourcing commitments. We provide supports for suppliers to help them drive sustainability and welcome collaboration opportunities. Recently we have been working with our logistics partners DFDS to explore alternative fuels, and we have switched 30% of our road transport to HVO.

Q. How does your company plan to integrate circular economy principles into its operations in the coming years, and what initiatives are in place to minimise waste and extend product lifecycles?

A. The circular economy is a critical concern for the soft drinks industry, and we were strong advocates of the recently introduced DRS which is helping us to secure the necessary high-quality materials needed to increase the percentage of rPET in our bottles. We already lead the way in concentrated solutions such as MiWadi Minis which massively reduce the amount of packaging required per drink. Looking to the future we see packaging-free solutions as an important opportunity with innovations such as our Aqua Libra Flavour Tap showing

Danone

Name: Hannah Cornick, head of sustainability and Social Innovation for the UK and Ireland

Role: Head of sustainability and social innovation for the UK and Ireland, Danone Company: Danone

Q. Can you tell me about your role in the company?

A. Danone is a health-focused food and beverage company with a mission to bring health, through food, to as many people as possible Our One Planet One Health vision reflects our belief that the health of people and the planet are interconnected, and we aim to reduce the environmental impact of our products whilst inspiring healthy, sustainable eating habits.

As head of sustainability and Social Innovation, I am responsible for embedding the Danone Impact Journey1 (a framework that helps us target, measure and act on corporate purpose) into day-to-day business and managing the delivery of Danone’s sustainability and community impact programmes. I am passionate about supporting business growth with purpose and helping employees to understand the critical link between business success and our sustainability values.

Q. What specific actions has your company taken to reduce its carbon footprint, and how do you measure and track your progress toward achieving your sustainability goals?

A. Reducing emissions is a top priority for Danone Our Climate Transition Plan2 to achieve our near-term science-based targets and become net zero by 2050, looks across all aspects of our operations and value chain. We work closely with our dairy suppliers to reduce emissions on farms, and at our factories in Ireland, we monitor our carbon footprint, invest in energy efficiency programmes, and implement state-of-the art technologies to improve our sustainability performance. Our Wexford plant installed a renewable biomass boiler, which contributed to an 80% reduction in operating emissions since 2011. In 2023, we established a new warehouse and logistics network in Ireland to facilitate direct delivery from our factories in Europe, saving over 500T CO2e annually

Through our Impact Report, we publish our progress each year, and outline areas where we intend to make improvements - we published our inaugural UK & Ireland Impact Report3 in 2024

Q. Can you provide details on how your supply chain management practices ensure environmental responsibility, and what steps are being taken to promote sustainability throughout your supplier network?

that you don’t have to compromise on quality when moving to more sustainable alternatives to traditional packaged drinks.

Q. What are your short-term and long-term goals for achieving net-zero emissions, and what strategies or innovations are you exploring to make these goals a reality while maintaining business growth?

A. As part of Carlsberg Group, we are committed to achieving Net-Zero emissions by 2040 and we are making great progress against this goal. Overall, we have reduced direct emissions by 85% since 2017 and we already have achieved a 99% reduction in manufacturing emissions for our Ballygowan site in Newcastlewest We are increasingly focussed on our Scope 3 emissions, working with suppliers to find scalable solutions. Circular, Concentrated and Packaging-free solutions are also at the heart of our longterm plans as reducing waste means reducing emissions. As the creators of iconic Irish brands like Club Orange, MiWadi and TK we are experts in great flavour and Irelands growing population of consumers will always need delicious and healthy drinks - we’re just finding the best way to supply them!

A. We recognise the importance of our environmental and sustainability commitments extending across our entire supply chain.

In 2024 we launched our new Sustainable Sourcing Policy outlining our expectations of suppliers to operate responsibly and help deliver our Impact Journey priorities. We’re rolling this out and embedding specific measures for different parts of our supply chain. For example we have been embedding 30% carbon reduction targets by 2030 into all dairy ingredient supplier contracts globally We believe in working with our suppliers to achieve these goals and have introduced an annual Partner Day to explore how we can better collaborate.

Q. How does your company plan to integrate circular economy principles into its operations in the coming years, and what initiatives are in place to minimise waste and extend product lifecycles?

A. We participate in Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), which incentivises recycling aluminium cans and plastic bottles, and helps develop a circular economy. We are also signatories of the Repak Plastics Pledge and actively encourage improvements to recycling infrastructure across Ireland. To further integrate circular economy principles, we are increasing our use of recycled content across our packaging, helping to reduce virgin plastic use and carbon emissions. We aim to cut our food waste by 50% by 2030 We have been working with FoodCloud since 2020 and supported the redistribution of 228 tonnes of surplus food, the equivalent of over 500,000 meals.

Q. What are your short-term and long-term goals for achieving net-zero emissions, and what strategies or innovations are you exploring to make these goals a reality while maintaining business growth?

A. As one of the first and largest B Corps in Ireland, we are deeply committed to sustainable business growth and have clear short-term and long-term climate goals. By 2030, we will reduce Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 46.3%, cut Scope 3 non-FLAG emissions by 42%, lower Scope 3 FLAG (agriculture-related) emissions by 30.3%4 and by 2050, we aim to achieve net-zero emissions across our entire value chain.

To reach these targets, we are progressing our transition to renewable energy and have secured planning permission to construct a solar installation adjacent to our Macroom factory We continue to innovate with lower-carbon products, such as growing our range of plant-based dairy alternatives. We are also keen to bring our expertise in regenerative agriculture to Ireland and are engaged with stakeholders, as well as our suppliers, to support farmers in meeting their climate targets.

1. https://www.danone.com/sustainability/our-approach/danone-impact-journey.html

2. https://www.danone.com/content/dam/corp/global/danonecom/about-us-impact/policiesand-commitments/en/danone-climate-transition-plan-2023.pdf

3. https://www.danone.ie/content/dam/corp/local/gbr/irl/impact-journey-report-2024-/ danone-uk-and-ireland-impact-report-2023.pdfFieldCodeChanged

4. https://www.danone.com/sustainability/nature/driving-climate-action.html

Hannah Cornick, Head of sustainability and social innovation for the UK and Ireland, Danone

A greener future

As sustainability continues to shape consumer choices, now is the time to highlight your business commitment to a greener future, writes Adam Emerson, business development manager, Ireland, Gander

Gander is a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform that helps retailers maximise the visibility of close-to-expiry food across multiple digital channels. By connecting with a retailer’s EPOS and/or inventory system, Gander automatically surfaces reduced-toclear products in real-time, ensuring they reach the widest possible audience before becoming waste.

Retailers facing increasing cost pressures need practical solutions that not only protect their margins but also enhance customer engagement and reduce waste. Gander provides a proven way to achieve all three

We help retailers reduce financial losses by addressing the issue of unsold perishable goods. We improve profitability by ensuring that retailers can better manage their stock and sell items that might otherwise go to waste, and we support environmental sustainability by reducing food waste, which benefits retailers and the planet.

How Gander has grown over recent years

Since launching in 2019, Gander has expanded its partnerships, covering over 500 stores and has helped reduce food waste by an average of 26% for retailers, saving over 40 million food items from waste.

Beyond the island of Ireland, Gander is also live in the UK, Channel Islands, Australia and Brazil, working with local retailers to bring the same multi-channel, real-time waste reduction solution to new markets.

Consumer & retailer benefits

We know Irish consumers feel that sustainability is important today and they are taking some action in their lives to live more sustainability In addition, consumers like to save money while making sustainable purchasing choices.

We are committed to reducing food waste and to helping consumers to manage their shopping budget. Retailers utilising Gander have reported significant financial benefits. For retailers serious about tackling cost pressures this year, adopting Gander is a smart move – not just for reducing/ minimising waste-related losses, increasing footfall and selling more reduced-to-clear stock but for strengthening their bottom line and enhancing customer loyalty

Some retailers are saving up to €950 per week and reducing their annual waste costs by as much as €24,000 per store. By ensuring yellow-stickered items sell 40% faster and our existing retail partners are achieving an 88% sell-through rate on reduced food, recovering value from perishable stock that might otherwise be lost.

Beyond cost savings, Gander also drives new customer acquisition, with approximately 50% of shoppers purchasing reduced items being new to the store. Additionally, at least 70% of Gander users buy full-priced items alongside reduced items, further increasing basket spend.

How Gander works

Gander provides retailers with multiple ways to promote reduced-to-clear food, reducing waste while boosting revenue Through our Facebook integration and AI technology, we automatically schedule daily posts to highlight these reduced-to-clear items. Our integration with delivery apps to showcase reduced products has proven highly effective in driving impulse purchases and increasing overall basket spend. Paired with Google’s local search capabilities, this enhances online grocery sales and raises visibility among nearby shoppers. Gander also extends reach through Olio Deals, connecting with its 4.5 million sustainability-focused users.

Additionally, by leveraging retailer loyalty apps and websites, we ensure that loyal customers see discounted products first. Gander drives overall store sales and speeds sales of reduced to clear products etc.

Gander isn’t just a tool for bargain hunters - 70% of users also buy full-priced items, driving overall store sales. Additionally, reduced-to-clear products sell 40% faster with Gander, ensuring they are consumed rather than wasted.

This impact was further acknowledged in 2023, when Gander was nominated for the prestigious Earthshot Prize, highlighting our scalable real-world impact in the fight against food waste. Gander was also nominated in 2024 and this year in Brazil by BVRio

Gander is a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform that assists retailers in reducing food waste by promoting discounted, nearexpiry products to consumers in real time The platform connects directly with retailers’ point-of-sale and inventory systems, automatically displaying reduced-to-clear items to shoppers through various channels.

We are currently working with some retailers across Spar, Eurospar & Maxol NI For more information, visit: www.gander.co

Lidl launches €100k Green Fund to support community sustainability projects

Applications to Lidl’s Green Fund are open to primary and secondary schools, charities and community groups across Ireland until 24 March 2025

Ireland’s ‘most sustainable’ supermarket retailer Lidl recently launched a new Green Fund to award communities across the country with €100k in funding in support of local projects that aim to tackle key environmental challenges across climate and biodiversity, circular economy and sustainable living, for the benefit of towns and villages the length and breadth of the country

Charities, primary and secondary schools and community groups from every county can now apply for Lidl’s new Green Fund which offers a top award of €25k to a lead project or initiative, with a further €75k allocated to multiple smaller projects regionally

Community projects

Applications are being sought for community projects across four key areas;

1. Climate: Initiatives that support communities to develop climate action plans that minimise the impacts of climate change e.g installation of solar panels, LED lighting, carbon literacy training.

2. Biodiversity: Initiatives that will develop environmental projects to support all ecosystems within our local communities e.g community garden, nature trails, native and pollinator friendly planting, pocket forest, marine environment and conservation projects

3. Reducing waste: identifying solutions to reduce waste and support a circular economy e.g waste programmes, repair cafes, upcycling, workshops and seminars.

4.Health and wellbeing: educating local communities to promote healthy diets and make healthier food choices e.g community cooking programme, nutrition workshops

“It’s great to see major retailers like Lidl really lead the way in embedding sustainable practices not only within their business but also in the communities which they serve,” said Fionnuala Jay, broadcaster and podcaster. Jay noted that this is such a great opportunity for smaller community groups, charities or schools to get the financial boost they need to make their vision a reality and

Tomás Sercovich, CEO, Business in the Community Ireland (BITCI)

really transform their local area.

“Whether that’s a community group in Lahinch launching a local repair shop to give a new lease of life to old items, or a charity in Skibbereen hosting nutrition workshops for improved health or a school in Carrickmacross creating new pollinator friendly garden, Lidl’s Green Fund is there to support community goals, big or small. Having dedicated my career to working in this space, I’m calling on every eligible group to apply now and be in with a chance to make a real change in their community,” said Jay.

Lidl’s Green Fund

Lidl’s Green Fund, developed in partnership with Business in the Community Ireland, is part of the retailer’s overarching sustainability strategy and commitment to creating A Better Tomorrow, contributing positively to the communities in which they operate and being good stewards of the environment.

“As Ireland’s most sustainable retailer, we

49 Sustainability CATEGORY FOCUS

know we have a responsibility to educate and support our customers and the communities in which we operate to lead more sustainable lives,” said Elaine O’Connor, head of sustainability, Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland.

With a network of more than 180 stores in Ireland, Lidl wants to use its reach into local communities as a real force for good and the launch of the new Lidl Green Fund is the latest initiative designed to move it forward in the journey towards A Better Tomorrow

Sustainability leaders

“With 2024 being the hottest year on record and global warming exceeding 1.5 degrees, concerted community action is critical,” said Tomás Sercovich, CEO Business in the Community Ireland (BITCI).

As leaders in sustainability and social inclusion, BITCI worked with Lidl to design and develop the fund to ensure its accessibility by communities right across Ireland and, importantly, its impact.

Tesco

Name: Andrew McGregor Role: Head of Sustainability Company: Tesco Ireland

Q. Can you tell me about your role in the company?

A. As Head of Sustainability, my role is to ensure Tesco Ireland is delivering for customers, communities, and the planet through the six pillars of our Planet Plan. All initiatives in our Planet Plan ladder up to our overall aim to reach net zero emissions in our Group operations by 2035, and net zero across our full value chain, aligned to a 1.5C trajectory, by 2050

Q. What specific actions has your company taken to reduce its carbon footprint, and how do you measure and track your progress toward achieving your sustainability goals?

A. Through targeted initiatives in transport, property and renewable energy Tesco Group achieved a 61% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions between 2015/16 and 2023/24. We track emissions from our own operations with internal quarterly reporting to ensure we are on track with our targets.

We source 100% renewable energy to power our network of stores, offices and distribution centres. We also produce energy via our wind turbine at our Donabate Distribution Centre, and have installed onsite solar on the roofs of four stores, with many more to come!

Across our estate we have rolled out fridge doors in all stores, are replacing the refrigeration and HVAC systems, and rolling out heat pumps.

We are also investing in our distribution network, and last year introduced 50 biomethane-fuelled trucks to replace diesel trucks, with a tailpipe emissions reduction of up to 90%. And we now have our first store in Dun Laoghaire fully serviced by electric vans, fulfilling deliveries to customers in the area.

Q. Can you provide details on how your supply chain management practices ensure environmental responsibility, and what steps are being taken to promote sustainability throughout your supplier network?

A. We collaborate closely with our suppliers to minimiSe the environmental impact of the products we sell. Our suppliers report annually on their climate commitments and progress, and we were the first retailer in Ireland to offer our suppliers

Sercovich noted that with a total fund of €100,000 available and a share of €50,000 allocated to multiple project requests, this funding will be transformative for many groups who want to further embed sustainable action in their local area.

“I would encourage everyone to apply for a share of the fund and I look forward to helping shortlist applications and award winners across Ireland later this summer,” said Sercovich.

Applications

Applications to Lidl’s Green Fund are open to primary and secondary schools, charities and community groups across Ireland from 24 February to 24 March 2025

For more information, or to apply please visit www.greenfund.abettertomorrow-lidl.ie

Lidl Ireland employs more than 6,000 people across 181 stores, three regional distribution centres and Head Office in the Republic of Ireland and currently holds 13.7% market share according to Kantar

sustainability-linked supply chain finance to incentivise setting science-based emission reduction targets. We encourage and support our suppliers to measure, report and reduce their food waste as part of our work to halve food waste in our supply chain by 2030 We also support a number of certification schemes to ensure that certain products are produced with a focus on environmental stewardship, resource efficiency, and social responsibility

Q. How does your company plan to integrate circular economy principles into its operations in the coming years, and what initiatives are in place to minimise waste and extend product lifecycles?

A. Pillar five of Tesco’s Planet Plan is to eliminate waste, specifically food and packaging waste. We strive to divert food surplus up the waste hierarchy to ensure the maximum inherent value of the food is upheld, and no food is sent to landfill. Food approaching the end of its shelf life is first reduced to clear for customers, and then donated to our charitable partners to redistribute to those who need it most. If surplus remains, it is donated to our colleagues via Colleague Shop, and as a final option, it is sent for anaerobic digestion. Since 2013, in partnership with FoodCloud and food sharing app Olio, we have redistributed the equivalent of over 20 million meals to over 350 community organisations nationwide

We follow the “4Rs” strategy for packaging and packaging waste, ensuring that we always Remove packaging where we can, Reduce it where we can’t, Reuse more and Recycle what’s left. Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) in Ireland supports 178 stores with 322 reverse vending machines (RVMs), with close to 100 million empty containers taken back to date

Q. What are your short-term and long-term goals for achieving net-zero emissions, and what strategies or innovations are you exploring to make these goals a reality while maintaining business growth?

A. We aim to be carbon neutral in our Group operations by 2035 and net zero across our full value chain, aligned to a 1.5C trajectory, by 2050 Our short term targets include:

• 85% emissions reduction across scopes 1 & 2 by 2030

• 55% emission reduction target for our scope 3 non-FLAG emissions by 2032.

• 39% emission reduction target for our Scope 3 Forest, Land & Agriculture (FLAG) emissions by 2032.

To keep track of progress towards our targets, we have developed decarbonisation pathways for emissions hotspots, and established group governance to monitor decarbonisation initiatives.

Andrew McGregor, Head of Sustainability, Tesco Ireland

50 CATEGORY FOCUS Sustainability

Oatly

Name: Caroline Reid Role: Global co-lead of sustainability Company: Oatly

Q. What specific actions has your company taken to reduce its carbon footprint, and how do you measure and track your progress toward achieving your sustainability goals?

A. At Oatly we constantly track and measure progress against our sustainability ambitions and publish annually our sustainability report which transparently communicates what we are doing, the opportunities, challenges and the progress we’ve made When measuring kg of CO2 per litre of oat drink, our corporate climate footprint decreased by approximately 17 percent between 2022 and 2023. This was a direct result of transportation and sourcing decisions as well as expanding our renewable electricity commitments to include all production partners in the US, Europe and Singapore.

Q. Can you provide details on how your supply chain management practices ensure environmental responsibility, and what steps are being taken to promote sustainability throughout your supplier network?

A. Oatly sets out clear environmental and social sustainability expectations for our suppliers that include three major components. Firstly, a Supplier Code of Conduct that reflects our company values and expectations on key issues such as human rights, working conditions, environmental protection and anti-corruption. Secondly, Supplier Sustainability Requirements which outline our sustainable sourcing expectations and ingredient standards, including sustainability certifications, renewable energy, sustainable ground transportation and reporting requirements. And finally, we continue to introduce more suppliers into our Ecovadis network to provide greater insights into focus areas of environment, ethics, labour & human rights and sustainable procurement. Over the next year, we aim

Emerald Park teams up with Flogas as official sustainable energy partner

Emerald Park, Ireland’s family-operated theme park and zoo has announced Flogas as its official sustainable energy partner as part of a five-year agreement.

This partnership will see Flogas providing exclusive energy services to Emerald Park, reinforcing both organisations’ commitment to a greener future.

As part of this collaboration, Flogas will supply Emerald Park with energy including renewable sources such as solar and electric vehicle car charging.

This initiative aligns with Emerald Park’s sustainability goals and ensures that the park operates with reduced environmental impact while continuing to offer world-class attractions and experiences to guests.

A significant highlight of this partnership is the installation of 290 solar panels at Emerald Park, which will generate enough clean energy for the theme park and zoo to run solely on solar energy for an entire month.

Furthermore, 20 EV (electric vehicle) charging units will be introduced at the Emerald Park car park, making it easier for

to both expand the Ecovadis programme to more suppliers and further improve the sustainability performance of our supply chain.

Q. How does your company plan to integrate circular economy principles into its operations in the coming years, and what initiatives are in place to minimise waste and extend product lifecycles?

A. The science is clear: if we want to combat climate change, it is time for humans to shift away from resource-intensive animalbased diets. Studies show that a shift to more plant-based diets could help reduce GHG emissions. We work every day to provide innovative and delicious oat-based products, making it easier for people to choose these over animal-based ones. In 2024 we are very proud to say that our products qualified as Climate Solution Products in the milk category Oatly Barista Edition across our key markets has a consistently lower or comparable impact than average cow’s milk in nearly all environmental impacts assessed* (7 out of 9.) As a company, we look to work with farmers, suppliers, scientists and other partners to develop our products in a way that we believe is beneficial, to both people and the planet.

*Environmental impacts: Climate change, fine particulate matter formation, terrestrial acidification, freshwater eutrophication, marine eutrophication, water consumption, and land use Derived from: Blonk Consultants (2022), LCA of Oatly Barista Edition and comparison with cow’s milk. Stages include raw material to point of sale and packaging waste management for average L produced and sold in the US, Sweden and the Netherlands and sold in Germany, Finland and the UK.

Q. What are your short-term and long-term goals for achieving net-zero emissions, and what strategies or innovations are you exploring to make these goals a reality while maintaining business growth?

A. We want to be a positive driving force in changing what is an outdated food system. Traditional food production is one of the biggest drivers of environmental impact; studies indicate that agriculture uses about half of all habitable land on Earth, requires large amounts of resources such as water, is a significant driver of global greenhouse gases (GHGs) and can harm biodiversity Our business and sustainability go hand in hand, as we grow, and people choose to replace more of their dairy intake with Oatly Since 2019 to 2023 our products have contributed 847,225 cumulative tonnes of CO2e of avoided GHG emissions.

guests to embrace eco-friendly travel options.

The Flogas partnership will see the exhilarating rides and attractions at Emerald Park powered by Flogas, ensuring a thrilling yet sustainable experience for guests.

This includes the park’s most iconic rides, such as Ireland’s first rollercoaster, The Cu Chulainn Coaster and Europe’s longest intertwining family and thrill coasters, Na Fianna Force and The Quest.

Additionally, Flogas will supply energy to the Emerald Park Zoo, home to over 250 diverse animals, further enhancing the park’s commitment to sustainability and conservation.

In 2025, Emerald Park will also be able to power several key facilities exclusively through renewable energy

This includes the Emerald Park 5D cinema, toilet facilities, food outlets such as The Grill and Boost Coffee Dock, along with attractions such as the Power Surge and the Air Race, showcasing the park’s continued investment in renewable energy solutions.

This partnership marks just the beginning of a longer sustainability journey for Emerald Park and Flogas.

Both organisations will work together to explore further sustainable energy solutions, including Corporate Power Purchase Agreements (CPPAs) to align electricity usage

with wind or solar projects and battery storage initiatives to enhance energy efficiency.

Beyond energy provision, the partnership will also see a strong Flogas presence throughout the theme park and zoo located in Ashbourne, Co Meath.

As part of this partnership, renewing Flogas residential customers will receive two free Emerald Park All Access tickets worth €104, offering even more value while supporting sustainable energy solutions.

This partnership marks a new chapter for Emerald Park as it continues its journey towards sustainability, ensuring a greener, more responsible future for generations to come ■

Pictured are Charles Coyle, managing director of Emerald Park and John Rooney, managing director of Flogas Ireland

Bring your products to life with a GS1 Digital Link QR code

Share your product’s sustainability credentials, build brand loyalty with consumers and enhance your trading partner relationships by leveraging the new QR codes powered by GS1

Brands & Producers

Barcodes with a GS1 Digital Link can help brands to connect with customers, build loyalty and unlock efficiency benefits.

They enable:

• direct consumer engagement with access to enhanced content, promotions, recipes and extended product ranges

• access to vital product information including ingredients, allergens and declarations

• the sharing of sustainability and traceability credentials and ESG data

• the better management and digital provision of warranty and returns information

• more effective recall management

• better trading partner collaboration with enhanced, standardised product data provision.

Suppliers: consider how GS1 Digital Link QR codes could provide value to your business by unlocking cost saving, marketing and brand loyalty benefits.

Take Action: Check if your QR codes are GS1-compliant. Plan ahead to include them on any new product launches or packaging.

What is different about a QR-code powered by GS1?

QR codes powered by GS1 contain data in a link that is structured in a specific, standardised way so that it can be scanned and decoded by systems and users globally They always contain one of the GS1 identifiers, such as a barcode number (GTIN - Global Trade Item Number) and optionally, can contain additional product information such as batch or lot numbers, expiry dates, and more. QR codes powered by GS1 are not limited to product identification but can be used on locations, assets, documents and more, to enable access to data contained both within the barcode or anywhere online

Digital Product Passports & emerging sustainability regulations

Emerging legislation, such as the EcoDesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), among others, will require the provision of a Digital Product Passport (DPP) for certain product categories placed on the EU market. GS1 Digital Link QR codes are designed to facilitate access to multiple sources of data including Digital Product Passports.

Ambition 2027

Retailers

Barcodes with a GS1 Digital Link help retailers to improve safety and efficiency within their operations.

They enable:

• better inventory management and visibility from backdoor to checkout

• more effective recalls and management of expired and short shelflife products in the warehouse and at the point of sale

• enhanced consumer shopping experiences with automated discounts and access to promotions and product information

• sustainability initiatives to reduce waste

• more effective returns management

• improved business-to-business processes for data sharing.

Retailers: consider your most pressing challenges and how GS1 Digital Link QR codes could provide value to your business by unlocking efficiency, cost saving and customer service benefits.

Take Action: Check if your scanning hardware and software is 2D ready Work with your solution providers to meet the 2027 deadline

There is a rapidly increasing demand for more information about the products we use and consume To meet this demand, industry has set a goal that, by the end of 2027, all retail POS systems should be capable of reading and processing a defined set of 2D barcodes with GS1 standards, in addition to existing linear barcodes.

Take action today

Maria Svejdar, Head of Retail, GS1 Ireland is leading the migration to 2D barcodes programme in Ireland. For a one-to-one discussion about what your company needs to do, book a Teams call today by scanning this QR code: ■

A night of networking and reconnecting in the off-trade sector

The recent National Off-Licence of the Year Awards 2025 recognised the hard work of leading off-licences and provided an opportunity for retailers to connect with industry colleagues

It’s great to be back together again in the Honorable Society of King’s Inns. Through challenging times, you have all exhibited the highest levels of professionalism as local community businesses, and for that – you should all be proud,” said National Off-Licence Association (NOffLA) administrator Reggie Walsh, speaking on the night.

“Tonight’s celebrations are a well-earned tribute to all our members who have demonstrated their commitment to adopting ‘best practice’ as their motto, by putting their names forward for this important awards competition.

Social diary

Spot anyone you know amongst well-known faces in the trade?

“The very fact of entering this competition is proof of the aspirations of our members each year to invite critical assessment of their performance and to put their expertise to the test The fruits of our members’ efforts will soon be revealed with the announcement of results,” she said. Now in its 29th year these awards would not have been possible without the genuine commitment of NOffLA’s sponsors. Their sponsorship is a source of great encouragement to the National Off-Licence Association.

NOffLA is particularly grateful to the following:

19 Crimes – Findlater & Co

El Coto – Mackenway Wines

Redbreast – Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard

Guinness – Diageo Ireland

Dona Paula – Santa Rita Estates

Hennessy – Edward Dillon

Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin

Alpha Zeta – Liberty Wines

Glendalough Distillery unveils limited-edition Pot Still Peated Irish Whiskey

Glendalough Distillery expands its portfolio with the launch of Glendalough Pot Still Peated Irish Whiskey, a first for the brand and a rare innovation in the Irish whiskey category By combining the hallmark spice and creaminess of Pot Still whiskey with a distinctive layer of peat smoke, Glendalough introduces a bold new dimension to Ireland’s whiskey landscape, reinforcing its commitment to reimagining classic styles from its base in the Wicklow Mountains.

The Glendalough Pot Still Peated is crafted from a mix of malted and unmalted barley, distilled in traditional copper pot stills, and matured for over seven years. The addition of peated malt introduces a subtle smokiness that complements the signature spice and creamy texture of Pot Still whiskey

Bottled at 46% ABV and non-chill filtered,

Glendalough Pot Still Peated is whiskey in its purest form, honouring Ireland’s distilling heritage and the spirit of St Patrick’s Day.

Distributed in Ireland by Drinks Genius, Glendalough Pot Still Peated Irish Whiskey is available for a limited time at an RRP of €70 from select retailers, including Celtic Whiskey Shop, The Corkscrew Wine & Spirit Merchants, Blackrock Cellar, and other speciality retailers. It is also available online via Glendalough Distillery’s website.

Glendalough Pot Still Peated Irish Whiskey will be showcased at the Cork Whiskey Festival from 2123 March to across Cork City’s MacCurtain Street.

For more information on Glendalough Distillery’s portfolio, visit www.glendaloughdistillery.com and follow @glendaloughdistillery on social media.

John Cashman crowned 100th World Whisky Hall of Fame inductee

John Cashman, a distinguished figure in the Irish whiskey industry, has been announced as the 100th inductee into the prestigious Whisky Magazine Hall of Fame

The award ceremony was held on 27 February 2025 at InterContinental Dublin.

Powerscourt Distillery highlighted that Cashman’s dedication and innovation have been recognised with multiple awards, including the esteemed Icons of Whisky awards.

The Wicklow man’s whiskey creations, including the latest World Whiskey award-winning Fercullen Single Malt, have garnered accolades in international competitions, showcasing his exceptional talent and commitment to excellence, it added.

From Tokyo to Montreal, Dublin to New York, Cashman’s career has taken him around the globe, promoting Irish whiskey and other whiskies from the world’s main producing regions.

“We are incredibly proud of John and his remarkable achievements,” said Roger Duggan, CEO of Powerscourt Distillery

“His induction into the World Whisky Hall of Fame is a testament to his passion, dedication, and the significant impact he has made on the Irish whiskey industry We look forward to celebrating this historic moment with him.”

Commenting, Cashman added: “It is an incredible honour to be inducted into the Whisky Hall of Fame

Over the past 27 years in the Irish whiskey industry, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the most talented and passionate people in the world with some of the great Irish whiskey brands.

“To be recognised in this way and to join such an esteemed group of industry legends is truly humbling.”

Fercullen Falls from Powerscourt Distillery was named Ireland’s Best Blended at this year’s awards.

This significant achievement highlights the distillery’s dedication to producing top-tier Irish whiskey The accolade reflects the meticulous blending process and quality ingredients that define Fercullen Falls, setting a new standard for blended whiskeys in Ireland.

The team at Powerscourt Distillery is also very proud to receive the accolade of Icons of Whisky - Sustainable Distillery of the Year Award, as well as Sustainable Officer of the Year for Siobhan Walsh.

Irish Whiskey exports surpass ¤1bn

Irish Whiskey exports surpassed €1 billion in 2024, according to the The Irish Whiskey Association.

The group recently published its latest Irish Whiskey in Numbers data set, illustrating the industry’s strong performance.

The latest figures from Bord Bia and the International Wine and Spirits Record (IWSR) show that Irish Whiskey sales exceeded 15 million cases last year, reflecting sustained global demand.

Notably, exports to India surged by 107%, making it the fastestgrowing market.

“The success of the Irish Whiskey sector is due to the innovation, resilience and hard work of our Irish Whiskey producers –passionate distillers that are found in almost every county in Ireland, deeply proud of the heritage of Irish Whiskey,” said Eoin Ó Catháin, director, Irish Whiskey Association.

Last year, the Irish Whiskey Association celebrated 700 Years of Irish Whiskey Tradition: 700 years since the publication of the Red Book of Ossory, with its instructions for distilling aqua vitae – or uisce beatha – which of course is known today as whiskey

“The ongoing hard work and ingenuity of Irish Whiskey producers provides a solid platform for the next 700 years,” said Ó Catháin.

Irish Whiskey is largely an international product – Ireland exports 90% of what it produces – and this premium product is finding favour in new and emerging markets.

As a Geographical Indication (GI) product since 1989, Irish Whiskey can only be distilled on the island of Ireland and is subject to strict production standards.

Irish Whiskey is currently sold in 113 markets, and in more than 90% of these markets it enjoys legal protection.

Beyond exports, Irish Whiskey continues to make a significant contribution to the Irish economy.

The Brewing and Distilling sector supports more than 10,000 jobs, while also driving employment in hospitality, tourism, and agriculture. ■

John Cashman

Glendalough Pot Still Peated Irish Whiskey

60 MARKET MOVERS

Knorr

Exciting news for noodle lovers as Knorr introduces asian-inspired range

• Available in three flavours: Chicken, Spicy Chicken and Curry,

• Knorr’s Asia Noodles bring a delicious Asian-inspired meal straight to your kitchen

• Ready in just three minutes, simply sprinkle over the seasoning, pour in boiling water, cover for three minutes, stir and enjoy!

Knorr has announced the launch of its new Asia Noodle range, bringing the ‘vibrant, flavours’ of Asia to Irish households. Perfect for busy food lovers, these noodles are a quick, delicious, and easy way to add a little variety to your meals.

Available in three delicious flavours - Chicken, Spicy Chicken and Curry

- Knorr’s Asia Noodles are ‘set to become a favourite’ among noodle enthusiasts and those seeking a quick, satisfying meal in just three minutes. As Asian cuisine takes Ireland by storm, with vibrant restaurants appearing everywhere, Knorr’s Asia Noodles are here to deliver the bold, irresistible flavours inspired by Asian cuisine

Knorr’s Asia Noodles are made with wheat noodles cooked in sunflower oil, delivering ‘exceptiona’l flavour and the perfect balance of taste and nutrition without compromising on quality They’re poised to become a kitchen staple for busy individuals and families alike. RRP €1.25.

Dairyglen

Maximise your profits

At Dairyglen, it understands that offering the right products can transform your business, driving both footfall and profitability That’s why it provides stateof-the-art slush machines paired with Slushy Jack’s, Europe’s leading frozen beverage brand. Whether you’re a small retailer or a high-volume site, its tailored solutions ensure slush is a highmargin, low-maintenance addition to your business.

Dairyglen offers a choice of three slush machines, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for your operational needs:

• Standard Slush Machine: A simple, easy-to-use model that plugs into a standard 3-pin socket, ideal for self-service operation with a built-in automatic timer

• Autofill Machine: A fully automated system that ensures constant product availability, requiring just a double socket and a washing machine valve, minimising staff intervention.

• Matrix Machine: The most advanced option, featuring handle-free operation with touch screen technology It offers operator-controlled dosage and cup sizing, along with real-time performance monitoring to track sales and efficiency.

Starting at an annual equipment charge of just €199, integrating a Dairyglen slush machine into your business is both cost-effective and hassle- free This minimal investment opens the door to substantial profits with minimal overheads.

Slush drinks are a staple in convenience stores, forecourts, cafés, and leisure centres, attracting customers of all ages. But the real reason retailers are making the switch? High margins. With minimal equipment costs and low overheads, each cup sold can generate over 60% profit, making it one of the most lucrative impulse products on the market. Get in touch and start boosting your profits today!

Lily O’Brien’s

Indulge this Easter with Lily O’Brien’s Chocolates

Shoppers can really indulge their loved ones this Easter with Lily O’Brien’s range of luxurious hand-crafted Easter Eggs, the perfect gift to celebrate with family and friends. Made with love in Ireland using Lily O’Brien’s signature chocolate recipe, this delicious range is sure to meet shoppers Easter gifting and treating needs.

Engage your shoppers on a journey of discovery with its pouch eggs, you can choose from - Crispy Hearts, Sticky Toffee and Mallow and Cookies.

Truffle fans rejoice! Lily O’Brien’s has created the ultimate treat this Easter season with two Truffles Easter Eggs. Salted Caramel and Milk Chocolate Truffles Egg.

Luxurious and moreish, its new and improved Large Easter eggs include the decadently delicious Desserts Collection Egg, along with the signature Lily O’Brien’s Sticky Toffee and Honeycomb Crispy Hearts.

For a gift to really impress this year, the Lily O’Brien’s Easter gift bag is the perfect choice. Packed with luxury, it features a delicious handcrafted Lily O’Brien’s Milk Chocolate Egg with honeycomb crispy heart chocolates, the beautifully gift wrapped Ultimate Chocolate Collection and two Lily O’Brien’s share bags tastefully presented in a stylish gift bag.

All Lily O’Brien’s Easter Eggs and boxed chocolates are carefully created and thoughtfully designed in Co Kildare and are available to order through Tennant & Ruttle, contact your Sales Representative for more information. www.lilyobriens.ie

Takis set to paint aisles blue

The fastest[1] growing snack brand with cult following, Takis is set to spice up aisles up and down the country with the launch of Blue Heat – the latest addition to its bold and intensely flavoured range of rolled tortilla chips.

Following huge success in international markets, the striking blue snack that is the brand’s number two flavour in the US,[2] are now available nationwide and are rolling out through both grocery and convenience into March.

The launch taps into the continued demand for spicy snacks in the UK.

The bagged snacks category continues to grow and is now worth £5 billion in value[3] , and within that, the ‘Heat’ segment is out-performing total crisps at +9% value sales in the last year[4]

Takis is perfectly placed to cater to this demand as the brand is outperforming the market, growing in value sales by 10% in the last year[5]

“There is no denying that UK consumers love a bit of spice. Gen Z in particular are leading the way with this and becoming more adventurous in their snack options,” said Becky Allan, marketing manager, Takis.

Takis Blue Heat has already seen incredible success in international markets, garnering a huge cult following.

“With its unmatched intensity across heat, flavour and visual appeal this new launch is set to resonate strongly with UK consumers and drive further growth within the category,” said Allan.

The bold new offering joins the brand’s popular lineup, which includes best-sellers Fuego and Dragon Sweet Chilli.

Takis Blue Heat 100g will land in Tesco Ireland stores from 17 March, and Supervalu and Dealz also in March. RRP €3.

Takis

Takis Blue Heat

No Sugar Slushy Jack’s

O’Brien’s range of luxurious hand-crafted Easter Eggs

DOOP by Lidl’s exclusive pop up beauty salon

Singer-songwriter Una Healy hosted the ‘DOOP by Lidl’ pop-up beauty salon launch on 6 March at No 5 Andrew Street, Dublin. The event showcased Lidl’s luxury-inspired beauty and skincare range, featuring a Marbella Glow room and attracting beauty media and influencers. ■

Una Healy

Ciara O’Neill

Louise McSharry

Kasey Campion

Kathryn Thomas

Rebecca Ryan and Susan McCarthy

Shauna Bernard, Una Healy, Donna Ahern and Ian Mulvaney

Bronagh McCoy and Grainne McCoy

Dev Shehan

QUICK QUESTIONS WITH

Oskar Persson, head of brands, Irish Distillers, Irish market.

Persson is head of brands for the Irish market at Irish Distillers and is responsible for providing strategic marketing leadership to support the growth of a diverse portfolio of brands, including Jameson, Redbreast, the wider Irish Distillers prestige whiskey portfolio and Absolut vodka.

In addition, Persson and his team are focused on driving brand affinity for a much-loved Irish success story, West Coast Cooler –especially given the acceleration of the ready-to-drink market in Ireland.

Persson is currently leading several key initiatives in Ireland, including the recent Irish launch of Jameson Triple Triple, a tripledistilled whiskey finished in bourbon, sherry, and Chestnut casks – a major innovation for the brand.

He has also overseen the launch of the new ‘Quite the Find’ Redbreast brand campaign in Ireland, with a further full through the line campaign set for late Spring in the Irish market.

His team are preparing for the annual Absolut Pride celebrations and the Absolut X event in April, featuring Eliza Rose and Sally C. and will shortly launch an exciting new flavour in the West Coast Cooler range.

1. Best series you recently watched on a streaming platform?

Severance on Apple TV - it’s gripping!

2. Best place for coffee?

I’m fond of a lazy Saturday morning in 3FE Ranelagh.

3. Top movie recommendation?

I loved TheSubstance It had interesting things to say.

4. Top book recommendation?

LongIslandCompromiseby Taffy Brodesser-Akner is a fantastic read.

5. Which social media platform do you use most? For work, Instagram. For personal use more recently, Bluesky.

6. Favourite influencer/content creator if you have one?

Ryan Carrick (@theryancarrick on Instagram) is an extremely funny man.

7. Best advert on TV?

The Michael Cera Ceravie Superbowl commercial from 2024 is an all timer.

8. Worst advert on TV?

For anyone of a certain vintage like myself, the words “Crazy Frog” are bound to conjure a genuine sense of dread.

9. Favourite grocery shop?

Whichever one is stocking freshly baked sourdough!

10. If you had to live in another country, where would you choose?

Japan - I am endlessly fascinated with the culture there.

11. Greatest achievement to date?

Completing my first marathon.

12. Do you prefer working from home or in the office/ on-site?

Definitely office based. I thrive off being around others.

13. Best piece of advice you ever received?

Learn to flex your communication style to match someone else’s.

14. Biggest fear?

That we leave the world in an absolute heap for my kids - humanity is making a good attempt at it currently.

15. City or beach break?

Beach with a Jameson Ginger & Lime.

16. Top restaurant recommendation?

Host in Ranelagh.

17. Who is the last artist/group you saw live?

Wunderhorse on our Jameson Connects stage at Other Voices. A powerhouse of a band.

18. Apart from your own, what brand do you admire most?

Nintendo is an unbelievably consistent and always joyful brand.

19. Best customer service you ever received?

Uppababy prams went out of their way to replace a faulty pram that was two and a half kids in and owed us nothing which was impressive.

20. What’s the last compliment you received?

Got a compliment on a new pair of shoes in the office that had previously been described as ‘questionable’, which made it all the sweeter. ■

Oskar Persson, head of brands, Irish Distillers, Irish market

Bring The gy