ShelfLife October 2025

Money talks

Nikki Murran, director of Grocery Retail Recruitment for Excel Recruitment discusses how the minimum wage increase will affect the grocery industry

Homegrown talent

The most exciting and innovative Irish brands currently making waves on retail shelves

The rattle race Companies that support reintegration after maternity leave ease the burden on new parents and gain benefits themselves

ShelfLife October 2025 Vol.32 No.10

Editor

DONNA AHERN

donnaahern@mediateam.ie

Staff journalist

RYAN BRENNAN

ryanbrennan@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.

Penny for your thoughts

Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe delivered Budget 2026 on Tuesday, 7 October, and there are quite a few updates that will have a real impact on our industry. One of the more immediate changes is a 50-cent increase on a pack of 20 cigarettes. On top of that, a new tax of 50 cents per millilitre will be introduced on e-cigarette liquids, starting from 1 November 2025. Fuel prices are also set to rise, which will likely drive up transport and logistics costs - something many businesses are already struggling with.

On a more positive note, there’s some relief coming for the food sector: the VAT rate on food will be cut from 13.5% to 9%, effective 1 July 2026. This should help ease costs for both businesses and consumers.

However, the biggest headline is the increase in the National Minimum Wage, which will go up to €14.15 per hour from 1 January 2026. While this move is designed to support workers, it also poses a significant challenge for employers. Many businesses are already feeling the squeeze, and this wage hike could add even more financial and operational pressure across the board.

It’s a move that’ll definitely put extra pressure on businesses to adjust.

Contents October

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

COVER STORY

38 Monay talks: Following the recent minimum wage increase announcement, Donna Ahern spoke with Nikki Murran, director of Grocery Retail Recruitment at Excel Recruitment, about its impact on the grocery retail industry.

of Forbes Street at the Marker Hotel Gareth Mullins to discuss his support of Irish producers and his role as SuperValu’s brand ambassador.

FEATURES&REPORTS

16 Fresh look: Speaking to Ryan Brennan, new owner Javaid Iqbal shared how he has transformed 45-year community favourite Nearby Mountview through a full store revamp, expanded deli, and renewed focus on people and community.

24 I’m with the brand: Donna Ahern caught up with head chef

36 Serving the community: Speaking to Ryan Brennan, store owner Sandra Nicholson shared how Gala Keel has transformed into a thriving hub at the heart of Achill.

82 20 Quick questions: Graeme Slattery, senior managing director, Teneoh.

ADVISOR

20 HR: Reintegration after maternity leave: Why companies must step up. Caroline Reidy reports.

22 Recruitment: The sharp leap in minimum wages has left retailers grappling with a much faster increase in their wage bill than they have been used to managing, writes Nikki Murran.

Donna Ahern

NEWSGRID

The top news stories in FMCG and retail from across Ireland

Lidl expands €7m deal with Galmere

Lidl Ireland has recently announced a new supply deal with Galway-based Galmere Fresh Foods worth €7 million, more than doubling its contract value over the last decade and increasing its range of fresh products which has expanded to 16 lines of soups, sauces, meal bowls, salads and dips across Lidl’s own-brand Meadow Fresh and Deluxe lines.

Supplying Lidl Ireland and Lidl Northern Ireland since 2014, the successful partnership with Galmere Fresh Foods has developed some of Lidl’s bestselling and most loved products, such as Lidl’s Deluxe Seafood Chowder

Irish Whiskey Association targets growth in Mexico’s emerging market

The Irish Whiskey Association (IWA), the representative voice of Irish Whiskey producers working to promote, protect and represent the Irish Whiskey category globally, recently paid a visit Mexico to promote links between Ireland and the 15th largest economy of the world.

Greencore delivers strong year of growth

Greencore Group plc has recently announced a strong finish to its financial year, with revenue up 8% for both the fourth quarter and the full year ended 26 September 2025.

The convenience food manufacturer attributed its growth to new business wins, product innovation, and favourable trading conditions.

The Group now expects to report FY25 revenue of approximately £1.95 billion (€2.25 billion) and an adjusted operating profit of around £125 million (€144 million), above previous guidance.

Tesco Ireland delivers ‘strong performance’ in first half

NFL game sparks spending surge in Dublin

The latest Bank of Ireland Spending Pulse analysing debit and credit card spending (25 – 28 September) reveals that the NFL’s arrival in Ireland for its first official match sparked a spending surge in central Dublin. The Pittsburgh Steelers defeated Minnesota Vikings 24-21 in the clash that took place at the end of September in Croke Park.

With American Football fans ‘taking over’ several locations across Dublin 1, 2, 3 and 4 ahead of the Croke Park clash, total spending in these areas rose by +12% compared to the same period in 2024

Tesco Ireland has delivered a ‘strong performance’ in the first half of the year, ‘despite the ongoing inflationary environment, with sales growth evident across all of it channels.’

Commenting on the results, Geoff Byrne, CEO, Tesco Ireland, said: “To support customers, we have continued to invest in our value proposition, bringing the benefits of an extended range of Aldi Price Match lines along with Clubcard Prices to life in stores and online”.

To Revenue seize Tobacco products contraband

worth over €77,400

The detections were made as a result of risk profiling and intelligence led operations, and included the following:

• Tobacco products, with an estimated value of over €77,400, representing a potential loss to the exchequer of almost €60,800

• Over 390g of Butane Honey Oil, with an estimated value of over €7,800 was also seized.

Coca-Cola HBC opens new graduate programme

Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland are inviting the next generation of talent to apply for its newly launched graduate programme

The two-year programme offers ambitious graduates the opportunity to kickstart their careers within one of the world’s leading beverage companies.

Graduates can apply to specialise in either supply chain or commercial, with each stream offering a unique pathway into the heart of Coca-Cola HBC’s operations.

New ‘Vape Tax’ for suppliers

Revenue has published detailed guidance to assist suppliers in understanding their obligations under the new E-liquid Products Tax (EPT).

E-liquid Products Tax will come into effect from 1 November 2025 and will apply to both nicotine-containing and non-nicotinecontaining e-liquid products, such as those used in vapes and e-cigarettes, at a rate of 50 cent per millilitre.

Low-income families spend a third of weekly income on a healthy food basket

The latest food basket report from Safefood has revealed how families on low-income need to spend up to one third (33%) of their weekly income to afford a healthy food basket that meets nutritional needs.

For those households with a teenager at home, their costs were more than 20% higher than those of a household with children of pre-school and primary school age, the data indicated. ■

Dublin winners advance in Màs+ by Messi contest

Hydration drink Màs+ by Messi, created in collaboration with Lionel Messi – widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time and an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, is fuelling a global hunt for the world’s top 1v1 players.

The Dublin leg of the tournament concluded, with Cork’s Evan Deasy and Dublin’s Becky Watkins taking home the male and female titles.

Evan Deasy, 18-year-old from Cork, forward for Cobh Ramblers, and Becky Watkins, 22-year-old midfielder from Offaly who plays for Peamount United battled through intense 1v1 matches last Saturday to claim victory, showcasing their skills and earning the top spots in their respective categories.

Two two headed to Miami on 19 September representing Ireland in the Màs+ by Messi 1V1 World Crown, where they battled it out with the best, for their chance to be crowned the 1V1 champion.

Más+ by Messi 1v1 World Crown, an exceptional tournament created to uncover hidden talent and shape the future of football.

Maxol invests ¤1m in flagship Dublin store

Oatly expands Irish presence with local team

Maxol, Ireland’s largest family-owned convenience forecourt retailer, has completed a major redevelopment of its flagship M3 Mulhuddart Service Station.

The project, representing a €1 million investment, has delivered a wide-ranging upgrade including a new Supermac’s drive-thru, as well as the introduction of Papa John’s Pizza and Zambrero, a leading global Mexican restaurant, strengthening the offering, which also includes Insomnia and Maxol Deli.

With almost 80 staff employed by Maxol’s Licensee, Donal and Liam Fitzpatrick (Springfield Retail Limited), two levels of seating and generous parking, Maxol M3 Mulhuddart is one of the busiest of the company’s 248 stores.

Brian Donaldson, CEO of The Maxol Group, said: “Maxol M3 Mulhuddart is a best-in-class example of Maxol’s vision to create destinations that go far beyond fuel: Together with much loved brands and Maxol’s proprietary brands, this site delivers an exceptional food experience that feels more like a food hall than a service station.

“Convenience, quality and customer experience converge here to set a new benchmark for forecourt retailing in Ireland.”

Oatly, the world’s original and largest oat drink company, has recently announced the establishment of a dedicated local team in Ireland, signalling Oatly’s commitment to further developing the Irish market.

At the helm of this expansion is Dónal Comerford, country manager for Oatly Ireland, an accomplished FMCG leader with a proven track record in brand building and market development.

Comerford, who brings extensive experience from roles at companies like Diageo and Richmond Marketing, is now spearheading Oatly’s direct presence in the country

The formation of this local team underscores Oatly’s belief in the Irish market’s unique dynamics and its strategic importance.

The team will concentrate on brand building and expanding product availability, ensuring that Oatly’s much-loved taste and adaptability reach more independent coffee shops, workplaces, and retailers across the country

The expansion comes as new research reveals a significant shift in Irish consumer habits.

A recent blind taste test showed that 58% of Irish cow’s milk drinkers actually prefer Oatly in their coffee, often without realising it.

(L-R) Evan Deasy, forward for Cobh Ramblers, and Becky Watkins, plays for Peamount United, winners of the competition

(L-R) Pat McDonagh, MD, Supermac’s & Brian Donaldson, CEO, The Maxol Group

Oatly’s research also identified the younger generation are leading the way with this plant-based shift

¤7 million strengthens Panelto Foods’ growth

Panelto Foods, one of Ireland’s leading bread manufacturers, has recently celebrated another significant milestone in its growth journey with the announcement of a new €7 million bread line at its Longford facility

This latest investment brings the company’s total investment in facilities and equipment to €40 million since 2018, underscoring its commitment to innovation, and long-term growth.

The new bread line will deliver next generation speciality breads designed to meet evolving consumer preferences and retail trends.

The company, which has doubled its output since 2018, is continuing to invest in innovation to support its growth ambitions between now and 2030

The announcement was marked by a visit from Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke, and CEO of Enterprise Ireland, Jenny Melia.

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD, said: “Panelto Foods is a fantastic example of how sustained investment in innovation and infrastructure can drive growth and competitiveness, which I have seen first-hand working closely with

Panelto Foods currently employs 370 people at its Longford campus, which comprises of a state-of-the-art bakery, an R&D Innovation Centre, and a dedicated training hub

The company specialises in in-store bakery speciality breads for the retail and food service markets.

In April of this year, Panelto Foods launched its most recent innovation, Italian Style Focaccia Sandwich Breads which has already exceeded expectations in both the UK and Irish markets.

Garry Walsh, CEO of Panelto Foods, said: “Our continued growth has been built on a culture and mindset of innovation.

Richmond Marketing appointed Irish distributor for Ritter Sport

Ritter Sport, the German chocolate brand known for its signature square format and commitment to taste and innovation, has appointed Richmond Marketing as its exclusive distributor in Ireland, marking a major step in its continued UK and Irish expansion strategy

The announcement comes as Ritter Sport accelerates growth across the British Isles, with Ireland identified as a high-priority market thanks to its strong per-capita chocolate consumption and dynamic retail landscape

“This partnership means opportunity”, explains Benedict Daniels, managing director of Ritter Sport UK.

“It signals a new phase of brand development in Ireland – a market we see as crucial to our long-term growth.

With distribution beginning this summer, the focus will be on building brand equity, increasing availability across all key channels, and showcasing Ritter Sport’s expanding flavour portfolio – including standout favourites like Whole Dark Chocolate and Pistachio

Panelto Foods currently employs 370 people at its Longford campus, which comprises of a state-of-the-art bakery, an R&D Innovation Centre, and a dedicated training hub

“Our insights and R&D team never stand still, and we have invested heavily in understanding consumer and retail trends, strengthening our R&D capabilities.

“Ultimately, you cannot execute innovation without a great team. Here in Longford, we have highly talented and dedicated workforce with people from over forty different nationalities, bringing a wealth of experience, perspectives and innovation to our business.”

“We’re proud to be a significant employer in the Midlands and to continue delivering high-quality, exciting bakery solutions to our customers across Ireland and the UK.”

World’s greatest food photography awards are open for entries!

The World Food Photography Awards sponsored by Tenderstem®, the greatest global celebration of food photography, are open for entries for its 2026 edition.

The competition, now in its 15th year, invites amateur and professional photographers alike to share their captures of food stories from all around the world, whether told through landscape, portrait, travel, wedding, photojournalistic or any other style of photography.

Kilkenny photographer, Ruth Calder-Potts, won 3rd place in the World of Drinks category at the World Food Photography Awards sponsored by Tenderstem® in this year’s competition for her stylish capture of an elegant cocktail, selected from nearly 10,000 entries submitted from 70 countries around the world.

There’s a top prize of £5,000 (€5,726) to be won and all finalist images will be exhibited at the prestigious Mall Galleries in London. A hand-picked selection of finalist images will also be displayed at the iconic Fortnum & Mason store in Piccadilly

This year’s global judging panel, chaired by legendary food photographer, David Loftus, includes Claire Reichenbach, CEO, James Beard Foundation, Tom Athron, CEO, Fortnum & Mason, Rein Skullerud, senior photographer and photo editor, World Food Programme and Jamie Oliver, chef, restaurateur and food campaigner

For more information and to enter the competition, visit: www.worldfoodphotographyawards.com.

Entries close on Sunday 8 February 2026.

(L-R) Benedict Daniels, managing director, Ritter Sport UK, and Barry Connolly, managing director, Richmond Marketing

‘Pink Oyster Mushroom Close Up’ by Kate Ireland

Centra supports Irish Cancer Society’s ‘Big Pink Breakfast 2025’ campaign

Centra has announced its support for the Irish Cancer Society’s ‘Big Pink Breakfast’ 2025 campaign.

Centra has been a ‘proud partner’ of the Irish Cancer Society for 15 years, raising vital funds that help deliver essential care for breast cancer patients and their families & ground-breaking cancer research projects.

With more than 3,600 people diagnosed with breast cancer in Ireland each year, this partnership plays an important role in ensuring patients and families have access to free services when they need them most.

Donations raised will also go towards funding life-changing cancer research projects.

Centra is encouraging customers nationwide to get involved in this year’s Big Pink Breakfast campaign, by helping to raise funds while also spreading the life-saving message that early detection is key

Commenting, Rita Kirwan, marketing director, Musgrave Retail, said: “We are beyond proud to mark 15 years supporting the Irish Cancer Society This is about communities coming together and showing how everyday choices can make a real difference.”

Over ¤50,000 raised at Annual sports lunch in aid of IGBF

The Aviva Stadium recently welcomed over 300 delegates to the Annual Sports Lunch, raising an impressive €50,000 in support of the Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund (IGBF).

The afternoon began with a vibrant drinks reception and entertainment courtesy of 7 Entertainment, setting the tone for a day ‘filled with laughter, generosity, and sporting spirit’.

Guests enjoyed a gourmet lunch and had the chance to win exceptional raffle prizes - including a trip to Paris to see Ireland vs France, complete with flights and accommodation.

The event was ‘masterfully’ hosted by broadcasting legend Des Cahill, whose ‘wit and warmth kept the energy high throughout’ the day.

Special guest speakers included:

• Paddy Andrews, who shared humorous anecdotes from his time with Dublin GAA.

• Ruby Walsh, who entertained the crowd with tales from the racing worldincluding the sacrifices jockeys make to meet race deadlines.

• Peter O’Mahony, who reflected on his distinguished rugby career and the challenges of adjusting to life at home post-retirement.

Keelings launch new Cherry on the Vine Tomatoes

As of October, Keelings is ‘delighted’ to launch its new Cherry on the Vine tomatoes. The new range includes two offerings for consumers, red and a medley of red and yellow cherry tomatoes. They are now available in Tesco stores nationwide

To support the launch a marketing campaign is currently running across Radio, Digital Audio, Out of Home, a feature on RTE’s Today show cooking segment and a series of recipe collaborations with Irish foodie content creators.

The campaign ‘Tomatoes Fruit or Veg?’ plays on the old-age fruit vs veg conundrum and aims to draw consumers attention with this playful and engaging angle The campaign aims to spark a fun debate to get people talking and drive awareness. Make sure to have your say on the Keelings.ie website or follow along on their socials @keelingsfruits

Pictured are Glenda Ryan, director of fundraising & marketing, Irish Cancer Society and Rita Kirwan, marketing director, Musgrave Retail. Pic: Marc O’Sullivan

Over ¤50,000 was raised. Pic: Conor McCabe Photography

Keelings Sweet & Tasty Cherry on the Vine Tomato Medley

PACKAGING WASTE WON’T GO AWAY BY ITSELF

Thanks to our 3,500 Members for funding the recycling of their packaging waste.

Calling all Non-Members to join Repak today to reach our 2025 EU recycling targets together.

• 50% Plastic

• 75% Paper & Cardboard

• 70% Glass

To fulfil your producer responsibility, join Repak’s circular economy ambition by prevention, recycling & reprocessing your packaging waste.

Contact our Membership Team today on membership@repak.ie

Visit repak.ie to learn more

Centra Edenmore celebrates its 63rd anniversary

McHugh’s, a proud family-run business now in its third generation, is celebrating 63 years of service in the community, with the recent announcement of a revamp of its Centra Edenmore store.

The family business began its relationship with Musgrave in 1997, opening its first Centra in Edenmore the following year, in March 1998.

This was followed by Centra Rosemount (1999), Greendale (2000), and Kilbarrack Road (2003), cementing the group’s reputation as a key local retailer and employer.

The McHugh Group was founded in 1962 by Gerry McHugh and his two brothers Joe and Danny.

The business has grown from a single store named ‘Thrifty’ to a diverse portfolio of four

Brady Family introduces new ham range made without nitrites

Brady Family, Ireland’s ‘favourite’ ham brand, has recently announced the launch of its new Made Without Nitrites and Artificial Preservatives range, now available in major retailers nationwide

This new range offers consumers all the delicious flavour they’ve come to expect from Brady Family now crafted without the use of nitrites or artificial preservatives.

Made using only Bord Bia approved Irish pork, the ham is slowly steam-cooked, hand-prepared, and expertly carved to deliver the same quality and taste that has made Brady Family a household favourite across Ireland.

Centra stores, two off-licences, a restaurant, a Gastro pub and the Perfect Day Café.

Gerry’s son Diarmuid now leads the group with his brother Cathal.

The third generation are represented by Gerry’s grandchildren Orla, Cian, Sean, Charlie and Andie

Diarmuid’s son Charlie recently joined the business to continue the family tradition into a third generation, serving the local community with the very best of Centra’s market-leading offering.

With over 300 employees, the majority living locally, the McHugh Group has long been one of North Dublin’s most significant employers, providing opportunities for generations of people to develop their careers.

Britvic Ireland earns Origin Green Gold

Britvic Ireland has been awarded Gold member certification with Origin Green, Ireland’s pioneering food and drink sustainability programme, and the only national-level sustainability programme of its kind in the world.

Britvic Ireland has been an accredited member since 2015 and is proud to have been awarded Gold status this year based on achieving exemplary performance against five target areas of Packaging, Energy & Emissions, Health & Nutrition, Diversity Equity & Inclusion and Supplier Certification.

In awarding Gold membership the auditors particularly called out Britvic Irelands achievements in the Health & Nutrition space,

McHugh’s Centra Edenmore celebrates 63 years in business McHugh’s, a proud familyrun business now in its third generation, is celebrating 63 years of service in the community, with the recent announcement of a revamp of its Centra Edenmore store

Beyond employment, McHugh’s Centra has actively supported community life through partnerships with grassroots sports clubs, youth initiatives, and local charities.

To mark 63 years of Centra Edenmore, the McHugh Group have donated €6,300 to St Francis Hospice.

exceeding the calorie reduction target by 20% in 2024 as a result of product reformulation and successful low calorie innovations such as Ballygowan Hint of Fruit. ■

MACE Holycross, Waterford is a shining example of how to keep on top of your game. A significant store investment makes them leaders in convenience and fuel retailing.

MACE Holycross owned by Siobhan and Brian Mooney, managed by Antoinette Guiry site director and assisted by Annie Power and team.

(L-R) Kevin Donnelly, MD, Sian Young, sustainable business director and Kevin McGourty, senior sustainability manager

Made Without Nitrites & Artificial Preservatives

CSNA NEWS

SARA ORME National President, CSNA

CSNA NEWS

No appetite in Government to unwrap reasons behind rising food prices

The CSNA delegation that met both Ministers Burke and Dillon recently asked them to deflect their suspicions on rising food prices away from laying blame at the feet of retailers.

We told them in no uncertain terms that we only ever rise retail prices when new wholesale prices are applied by our suppliers. We were very clear that the gouging and profiteering, if it actually does exist, is further up the supply chain and it was there that they, CCPC and the Agri-Regulator should focus their investigations.

Everyone claims to be thinking about the children - but what about the adults?

Recently there was an incessant barrage of anti-vaping messaging across many different spaces, including the Dail Chamber where a Minister of State, Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD (FF Carlow Kilkenny) opened an hour and a half discussion around a Statement on what the Government intended to do about nicotine inhaling products.

A Statement that was billed in the Oireachtas Diary as ‘Statements on the use of vapes and nicotine products by young people and adolescents.’

The Minister of State responsible for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy outlined the additional laws she and the Government are preparing to introduce; legislation to ban the sale of single use or disposable vapes is at an advanced state and will be introduced this term.

A second Bill will also be introduced that will restrict the colours and imagery on vapes “to make them less attractive”. This Bill will also contain bans on devices resembling toys and prohibit point of sale displays, in addition to a ban on instore advertising.

The Minister suggested that she was reminded to write to individual Local Authorities suggesting that they implement some form of restriction on the number of stores that are permitted to sell nicotine inhaling products. She also stated that she would favour “shutters” in front of vaping products that would prevent them from being displayed.

It is the intention of the Environmental Health Service to continue to Test Purchase both tobacco and nicotine-inhaling products.

In the past 18 months, the EHS tested 700 stores and found 600 of them sought ID/refused to sell; although this 86% compliance rate is most welcome and encouraging, the detractors are more prepared to focus on those that failed the Test.

Of the 20 or so contributors to

CSNA exclusive ARAG policy cover

CSNA members can avail of additional benefits on top of the standard ARAG cover such as, Employment Practices Liability, Contract Disputes, Sum Insured of €400,000.

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the discussion, not a single legislator was prepared to note the rights of adult users of nicotine containing products to have these products made available in ways that do not suggest that they are in need of protection.

We will have to await the Bills to see how many restrictions on existing users are being proposed and how costly to implement will these restrictions be for law abiding compliant retailers servicing an adult demand.

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Additional covers exclusive to CSNA policy

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CSNA NEWS

CSNA NEWS

Latte levy latest

Members will be familiar that a proposal by Minister Eamonn Ryan that as part of the circular economy plans to reduce single use products a levy on disposable cups should be considered.

Retailers had voluntarily (at not inconsiderable expense) already moved away from plastic cups in favour of compostable cups.

This was done on the understanding that this move was not only environmentally friendly, it would also avoid any levies being placed on these products.

When Minister Ryan and his Department commenced to put in place a “latte levy” there was a backlash against the move. A report commissioned by a lobbying body of which CSNA are co-founders made scientific and economic

arguments against the Levy, and it failed to proceed.

In recent weeks, we became aware that the Department had engaged a firm to assist them in contacting, in a haphazard and random fashion, a number of bodies and companies that would be affected by a new Levy.

The previous Levy was to be initiated by the retailer to any customer who bought a hot beverage that was served in a single-use cup. While the Department suggested it was modelled on the lines of the plastic bag levy in that it was operated via Revenue and noted on receipts to the end user, the truth is that the sales of products contained in plastic bags were not threatened, unlike the very real concerns most retailers had for their coffee and other hot drink sales.

This new suggestion is radically different- it is suggested that your supplier will charge you 20cent for every cup you buy from them and that you are free to pass on that charge if you choose!

Think about your situation in your store- how likely is it that each and every single cup you take into your store will end up getting paid for at the till by your customer?

The association has joined forces with importers, distributors, wholesalers and a wide body of representative groups affected by this lunatic suggestion. It didn’t make environmental sense previously and it still doesn’t. We will keep you updated!

Tenderstem® Growth Rooted in Opportunity for Irish Retailers

Despite challenging growing conditions, Tenderstem® has wrapped up the summer trading period on an impressive high, up +33.4% year-on-year It’s a performance that highlights the strength of the brand, the consistency of its supply chain and the growing appetite among Irish shoppers for broccoli’s tastier cousin.

As the brand moves into autumn, the focus shifts from BBQ’s and salads to home cooked comfort eating. This season welcomed the launch of two key activations, the Tenderstem® x Tribe Coffee ‘Veg Up Your Toastie’ collaboration weekend in September, and the ‘Cook up a Roast Worth Sharing’ campaign. Both campaigns were designed to inspire consumers to elevate their everyday meals at home by putting Tenderstem® at the heart of more satisfying, wholesome dishes. After all, if M&S can put Strawberries and Cream into a sandwich, why can’t we! It’s proof that creative, seasonal collaborations capture imaginations and trends drive sales.

A first for the brand, Tenderstem® has partnered with Dunnes Stores on a shopper marketing investment featuring floor stickers and shelf barkers to position Tenderstem® as the ‘green of choice’ in-store Visibility is everything, and the brand is clear about its ambitions for Ireland and that is to deliver 30% growth this winter by prompting shoppers to make mealtimes healthier and more satisfying with Tenderstem® as their hero green vegetable

But while campaigns play a critical marketing role, success always comes down to the fundamentals of the offering. The right

product, in the right merchandising position, in the right pack formats and at the right price. Tenderstem® works closely with its retail partners to ensure category health through performance reviews and bespoke advice. For retailers tracking behind the impressive national growth figures, the message is simple, now is the time to engage The brand offers a category health check service to help stores unlock growth opportunities and add value to their fresh produce sales.

With per capita consumption in Ireland still half that of the UK, the opportunity is clear Tenderstem®’s sweet and nutty flavour, nutritional qualities, its stem-to-tip edibility and quick cooking time make it a consistent crowd-pleaser and a proven driver of category value

Available year-round and supported by targeted marketing, local growers and strong retailer partnerships, Tenderstem® is not just broccoli, it’s Broccoli but Better

For retailers looking to bring more customers, who are buying more vegetables and more frequently, to their aisles, reach out to Lorraine Fountain, Commercial Manager for Tenderstem® UK & Ireland at lfountain@ twentydegrees.com to start a conversation about growth and retail ambition for your store. ■

CSNA provides submission to Cost of Business Forum

The association provided to the Cost of Business Forum this month our Submission on Professional Services: Insurance. Within our Submission we outlined that whilst claims are being reduced our members premiums have not! We also discussed topics such as the Government action plan, Personal injury guidelinesjudicial, competition, affordability and transparency and legal fees and much more. You can view the full CSNA Submission on the CSNA member portal. ■

Reaching new peaks at Mountview

For 45 years, a well-known convenience store in Mountview has been a cornerstone of its community. Now under the ownership of Javaid Iqbal since December 2024, the store has not only rebranded to Nearby Mountview but also undergone an array of transformations designed to bring it firmly into the future.

Iqbal and his team wasted no time in making their mark.“Since taking over the store, we have completely renovated the store. New shelving with new products, new fridges, extended deli range, ” he explained.“We aren’t finished yet and still plan to do a lot more. ”

Strong foundations

The decision to rebrand and invest quickly has paid dividends. Sales have grown steadily since the takeover, with upgrades and thoughtful additions to the offering making a noticeable difference. The deli counter has expanded, a coffee machine has been installed, and school lunch deals have been introduced, all of which have helped attract a wider range of customers.

“Sales have grown since taking over by adding a new range of products and coffee machines, [plus] school lunch offers in the deli,” Iqbal said “Our customer base is still growing every day.”

All these positive signs point to a store that is firmly on the rise.

Ryan Brennan caught up with Javaid Iqbal, store owner of Nearby Mountview to discuss the recent renovation of the store

Family feeling

Behind the tills and counters is a committed team of 10 staff members, made up of seven full-time and three part-time employees. What makes the workplace stand out is the culture of mutual respect and teamwork

“We have a very good relationship with staff. It feels like family,” Iqbal shared “Always willing to help each other and go the extra mile.”

That spirit has helped create not just a productive work environment but also a welcoming atmosphere for customers.

Community

Nearby Mountview’s integration with the local community is one of its greatest strengths. Customers are known by name, events are

supported whenever possible, and sponsorship of local initiatives is actively being pursued

“We’re very close with the community,” said Iqbal. “We know a lot of the customers by name and will always try to support any local events that are happening.”

This commitment to connection ensures the store is seen not just as a place to shop, but as a vital hub of the community

Standout store

Asked what makes Nearby Mountview unique, Iqbal points to his people-first approach and the lively environment he’s cultivated

“We have a great relationship with both customers and staff Always having good fun in the shop while making sure the standard remains,” he said “We will

(L-R) Azaan and Ashir Muhammad, retailer, Nearby Mountview

“We have a very good relationship with staff. It feels like family.”

always go above and beyond to make sure the customer leaves the store happy, with their basket full for less.”

This ethos, balancing professionalism with approachability, helps differentiate the store from nearby competitors.

Support from Nearby

Joining the Nearby brand has given the team a reliable source of support as it continues to grow “Yes, we have received a lot of support from Nearby since joining,” Iqbal said.“They make life very easy for us Always there to support us when needed and help drive our business.”

That backing provides the reassurance and structure needed to keep momentum going while giving the store room to carve out its own local identity. “Always there to support us when needed with smart sales and marketing strategies to help drive our business.”

Challenging climate

With households under pressure from the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, price and value remain top priorities for shoppers. The store is determined to deliver on both fronts.

“Instore, we run with Nearby’s Bring Home the Value range. This offers real value on everyday essentials that change on a three-week cycle ensuring great variety on household essentials and value for our consumers each time they stop to shop with us ” said Iqbal.

This competitive stance ensures that customers

don’t

Looking ahead

Though the store has already undergone significant improvements, Iqbal is clear that he’s only just getting started. Greater involvement within the local community.

By combining deep local connections, a growing

product offering, strong staff relationships and the backing of a strong symbol brand behind them, Nearby Mountview is carving out a bright future

As Iqbal reflects on his journey so far, one thing is certain: this long-standing store has been given a new lease of life. And with its focus firmly on people, customers, staff, and community alike, they are the perfect fit to join the Nearby family ■

Nearby Mountview

An Post in Nearby Mountview

(L-R) David Finnegan, BDM, and Azaan Muhammad, retailer, Nearby Mountview

have to choose between shopping locally and saving money.

Dunnes retains its spot as the top grocer in Ireland

Back-to-school shopping shapes Irish spending as lunchbox staples return to shoppers’ baskets

Dunnes holds 23.9% market share, up on the last 12-week period, with slowing sales growth of 6.1% year-on-year according to the latest data from Worldpanel by Numerator

Tesco holds 23.7% of the market, with value growth of 6.4% year-on-year Shoppers increased their trips to stores by 1.3% and, together with new shoppers, contributed an additional €23.7 million to the grocer’s overall performance.

SuperValu holds 19.5% of the market with growth of 4.9%. Consumers made the most shopping trips to this grocer, averaging 24.7 trips over the latest 12 weeks, up 9.6% yearon-year The increase in shopping trips contributed an additional €61.6 million to its performance.

Lidl holds 14.2% of the market with growth of 9.5%, the fastest growth among all retailers. Lidl also saw shoppers pick up more volume in store, up 2.5%, contributing an additional €11.5 million to overall performance.

Aldi holds 11.6% market share, up 4.7%. Increased store trips and new shoppers drove an additional €16.1 million in sales.

Take-home grocery sales

Back to school spending helped drive takehome grocery sales up by 6.1% in the four weeks to 7 September 2025. With many parents preparing for the new term, store visits increased by 0.7%, although shoppers picked up fewer packs per trip Overall, shoppers spent an additional €68.8 million

An update on inflation

Irish grocery inflation* stands at 6.3%,

on groceries compared with the same period last year

Grocery price inflation now stands at 6.3% over the latest 12-week period, up from 5.4% in the previous 12 weeks, yet Irish shoppers have continued to enjoy everything summer has to offer before the arrival of winter

According to Emer Healy, business development director, Worldpanel by Numerator: “As the new school term began in early September, we saw spending on typical lunchbox staples increase across many households with children. Over the latest fourweek period, shoppers spent an additional €5.3 million on sweet bakery items, fresh fruit, breakfast cereals and porridge, savoury snacks and yoghurt. Convenience is also a priority, with an extra €1.6 million spent on fresh and frozen ready meals and cooking sauces compared with last year.”

Households with children also made greater use of online shopping, spending an additional

€6.6 million compared with the previous month. They also added €1.2 million more to their baskets on sliced meats, yoghurts, breakfast cereals and biscuits as they stocked up for school lunches.

Shoppers took advantage of promotions too, spending €758 million on promotional lines during the latest 12-week period, an increase of 8.2% on the previous year Promotional spending now makes up 21.5% of all grocery sales. Key categories driving this growth included laundry, water, squash and smoothies, all of which performed ahead of the total market for promotional lines.

Autumn brings big boost for brands

While brands have grown behind the total market (+5.8%) with growth slowing to 3.9% in the last 12-week period, Irish shoppers still spent an additional €62.6 million on branded products.

Own label saw stronger growth at 6.6%, with premium own label the standout performer, up 16.2%. Shoppers spent nearly €19.4 million extra on these ranges. Premium own label lines saw a boost in confectionery (+18.4%), soft drinks (+24.8%) and alcohol (+36%) over the last 12 weeks.

Brands currently hold 47.2% value share of the total market, while own label holds 46.9% value share.

Retailer and channel performance

Online continued to gain ground, with sales rising 6.3% year on year to take 5.8% value share of the market. Shoppers spent an additional €12 million online during the period, helped by an influx of new customers who contributed €7.7 million to overall performance. Nearly 18% of Irish households bought their groceries online during this time

Dunnes continues to lead the Irish grocery market

GROWYOUR BUSINESSWITH

Since we founded in 1959, O’Reilly’s Wholesale has grown from a small local distributor into a major player in the fast-moving consumer goods

sector, we supply over 6,000 products across Ireland and beyond.

have remained unchanged.

While our business has evolved significantly over the decades, our

values - integrity, customer focus, and community commitment

The rattle race

Reintegration after maternity leave: Why companies must step up. Caroline Reidy reports

For many women, maternity leave is one of the most transformative and exhausting chapters of their lives.Yet when the time comes to return to work, that transition is too often marked not by support and inclusion, but by silence.

Women find themselves chasing managers for clarity on return dates, negotiating flexible working requests in the dark, or walking back into offices with no reintegration plan in place. The result is isolation, disconnection, and in many cases, a slow erosion of confidence at a time when new mothers need support the most

Companies that take reintegration seriously not only ease the burden on new parents but also benefit from higher retention, stronger engagement, and healthier workplace cultures Yet despite progress in policy and awareness, the lived experience of many women shows that organisations are falling short.

The return from maternity leave is rarely simple. A mother may be juggling sleep deprivation, childcare arrangements, breastfeeding schedules, and the emotional weight of leaving her baby On top of that, she faces a professional environment that has often moved on without her. Systems may have changed, new colleagues may have joined, even managers may have moved roles. Without deliberate support, she can feel as though she is starting in a new job, without the benefit of induction.

Many women report having to chase for answers in the weeks before their return “Do you still want me to come back on the date I had planned?”“Is my flexible working request approved?”“Will I still be on the same team?” These are not questions employees should have to push for. Employers should be taking the lead, offering clarity and reassurance well in advance.

Showing support

Supporting women post-maternity leave is not just a moral issue; it’s a business one. Companies with strong family-supportive policies enjoy better retention, higher engagement, and more genderbalanced leadership pipelines

When women leave due to poor reintegration, organisations lose

CAROLINE REIDY

Managing director

The HR Suite

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 The HR Suite’s office on (066)7102887 or email info@thehrsuite.com

not only talent but also their investment in training and development. The knock-on effect is fewer women progressing into senior roles, perpetuating gender imbalance. At a societal level, the economic cost of mothers exiting the workforce is significant

Reintegration should be treated as a structured process, not an informal arrangement. Key elements include:

1. Early and proactive communication

Employers should reach out well before the return date to confirm arrangements, discuss preferences, and answer questions.

2. A personalised reintegration plan

Just as new hires receive onboarding, returning mothers should have a re-onboarding plan This might include refresher training, key meetings, and time to ease back into workload.

3. Flexible and creative working arrangements

Flexible working requests should be met with openness, focusing on solutions rather than barriers.Trial periods can help test arrangements.

4. Manager and team engagement

Managers should schedule structured catch-ups to update the employee and listen to her needs.Teams should also play a role in welcoming returning colleagues.

5. Peer and mentor support

Access to parent networks or mentors can reduce isolation and ensure women continue to progress in their careers.

6. Cultural leadership

Senior leaders must normalise family-friendly policies, support parents openly, and challenge bias. Culture is shaped as much by behaviour as by policy

At its heart, reintegration is about empathy. It requires recognising that returning to work is not just a contractual obligation but a deeply human moment The employee is the same professional, but with new responsibilities, pressures, and perspectives.

Small gestures can make a huge difference: a manager sending a supportive message before return, a team arranging a welcome coffee, or sharing a simple roadmap of the first few weeks. These touchpoints don’t require vast resources, but they do require intent

Strengthening retention and engagement

The conversation about maternity leave has evolved, with better policies around pay, leave duration, and flexibility But the next frontier is reintegration, the point at which women either feel valued and supported or sidelined and isolated.

Organisations that get this right will strengthen retention and engagement while sending a powerful signal about their values. They will show they understand that work and life are intertwined, and that supporting employees through life’s transitions is central to inclusion.

It is time for companies to stop expecting women to chase them for clarity, flexibility, or inclusion. Instead, they must step forward with structure, care, and respect. Reintegration is not an administrative detail - it is a critical moment of truth for

organisations that claim to care about gender equality and employee wellbeing.

If you require further information or advice on the above, or should you feel you may require Outplacement Services, please do not hesitate to contact or HR Consultancy Team on 01 901 4335 / 066 710 2887 or email us at info@thehrsuite.com and our team will be more than happy to assist ■

Squeezed margins, smart moves

Nikki Murran looks at how retailers can cut recruitment costs and keep staff through the silly season

With the minimum wage climbing again and a new PRSI increase and pension auto-enrolment on the way, retailers are already counting every euro. And just as labour costs peak, the busiest season of the year rolls around. It’s called the silly season for a reason; not just because of festive madness on the shop floor, but because of how easily costs can spiral if stores aren’t strategic about hiring and retention.

For many, this Christmas will be a test of how to do more with less. The good news is that there are smart, realistic ways to reduce recruitment spend and hold onto your best people, even when your wage bill is already under pressure

1. Start with who you know

The cheapest, fastest route to great staff is usually the people you already have Referrals are gold A small reward: a voucher, a half day off, or even public recognition, can encourage existing staff to recommend friends or relatives who’ll fit in well Not only does it cut ad spend, but it usually delivers stronger hires who are easier to retain.

Likewise, rehire last year’s seasonal team They already know your store, your customers, and your systems. Even if a few have moved on, many will happily return for the extra Christmas cash It saves you training time, reduces mistakes, and gives the team a head start before December chaos hits.

2. Upskill before you upsize

Before rushing to hire extra staff, look at who’s already on your books. Could a strong part-timer handle extra shifts or take on keyholder duties? Could a deli assistant be trained to close the department or store one night a week? Small, temporary promotions can keep employees motivated while saving you the cost of a new hire It also builds future leaders; and in this labour market, succession planning is as valuable as sales planning

NIKKI MURRAN Director, Grocery Retail Recruitment, Excel Recruitment

3. Get smarter about how you hire

When it comes to advertising, focus on visibility, not volume.Target local Facebook groups, noticeboards, and community WhatsApp chats instead of expensive internet job boards. Be clear and concise about the hours, pay, and benefits in your advertisment; transparency saves time and weeds out unsuitable applicants early.

Group interviews or open recruitment days can also save hours of admin. Interviewing several candidates together speeds up the process and gives you a quick sense of who’s confident, reliable, and customer focused. And partner with a trusted recruiter early, December panic hiring often costs more than steady planning in October.

4. Recognise that retention is your cheapest recruitment strategy

It’s far more cost-effective to keep the people you already have than to replace them Small gestures can make a big difference: staff raffles,free coffees on long shifts,a‘December Heroes’board,or even just saying thank you publicly.

Flexibility is another key factor. Offering staff a little choice; finishing early for a school play or swapping shifts for a family event - costs you nothing but builds huge goodwill After all, this is the time of year when staff are giving you their weekends, their evenings, and sometimes their patience A bit of flexibility earns loyalty that money can’t buy.

5. Crunch the numbers and the culture

Retaining one good employee can save hundreds in ad spend, training, and lost productivity. Multiply that across your store and the savings are substantial. And while the cost of labour keeps rising, the culture you build costs very little. Create an environment people want to stay in, and your recruitment budget will thank you for it

This Christmas, retailers can’t escape the squeeze, but they can outsmart it Focus on your people, plan early, and make every hire and every hour count. Because while wage increases may be out of your control, how you manage your team is where the real return on investment lies ■

Streets ahead with seasonal produce

Donna Ahern caught up with celebrity chef and head chef of Forbes Street at the Marker Hotel Gareth Mullins to discuss his support of Irish producers and his role as SuperValu’s brand ambassador

Q: You’ve had quite a journey in the culinary world. What first sparked your passion for cooking, and how did it lead you to Forbes Street?

A: I’ve been cooking since the age 15. My father and other members of my family worked in the catering industry for many years so this definitely played a part in inspiring me to enter the culinary world.

My first professional job was in UCD, where I worked first as a kitchen porter and then a commis chef I went on to work as a chef de dartis in the Merrion Hotel alongside my studies in Cathal Brugha Street before I moved to Australia at 21

It was during my time in Australia where I really honed my skills and craft with international ingredients, especially meat and fish. I spent six years there, which included a stint as the head chef of the 5-star ‘W’ Hotel in Sydney before I returned to Ireland in my late 20’s. I initially returned to the Merrion Hotel before taking a job at the Marker Hotel, where I have been the executive chef for the past 11-years. During my tenure, we rebranded from the Brasserie at the Marker Hotel to Forbes Street by Gareth Mullins, which we remain known as today.

Q: As a chef, how do you approach creating a menu? Can you walk us through your creative process from concept to plate?

A: Being chef of a 5-star luxury hotel, I operate five different food outlets – the restaurant, the bar, the rooftop bar, banqueting and in-room dining. The ethos I apply to menu engineering is to cook within the seasons using locally sourced artisanal produce where possible

When it comes to creating menus, if you follow the seasons, it gives you the biggest return on flavour with your food. I always encourage this on platforms where I have a voice, including the Six O’Clock on Virgin Media, my weekly slot with Pat Kenny on Newstalk, and now with various SuperValu campaigns and their Real Food magazine that is published five times a year I also work with the SuperValu Own Brand development team to input and review new products and ingredients.

I’m also quite active on social channels like Instagram, where I regularly share recipes.

“The reason I felt SuperValu was such a good brand fit is because the team at SuperValu work tirelessly to find the best produce that Ireland has to offer.”

Gareth Mullins, head chef, Forbes Street and SuperValu brand ambassador

Q: You’ve worked in several top-tier kitchens over the years. HowŒ have those experiences shaped your cooking style and philosophy?

A: As I’ve gotten older and gained more experience in the industry, my style has somewhat simplified, and I’ve learnt that choosing amazing local ingredients is where people get to understand the food they are eating. This is the optimal way of showing international and local guests the best Ireland has to offer through the favour of the food and a real sense of place.

I also think that by eating seasonally you are eating food exactly when it is supposed to be eaten. This doesn’t only deliver on amazing flavour, but the food will also have its best nutrients during these times.

From the perspective of a home cook, it is essential to trust where you are buying your ingredients. Purchasing from companies that invest in people, their farmers and producers provide the best opportunity to source the best possible ingredients at the optimal time

Forbes Street has become known for its incredible food. What sets it apart from other restaurants in the competitive Dublin food scene?

The landscape changes a lot, which of course is a positive for the local diners as it provides greater choice. From our perspective, we really focus on delivering a luxurious experience in a comfortable setting, delivered by trained professionals and ensuring our diners are eating tasty, local and seasonal food.

We are also lucky that the restaurant is situated close to a major theatre, so that helps to bring a large footfall to a bustling part of the city in the Grand Canal.

Q: What is your favourite dish on the Forbes Street menu right now, and what makes it special to you?

A: I like the fact we serve oysters. They are a very famous Irish ingredient, and I would argue Irish oysters are the best in the world. The restaurant is also known for serving premium dry aged Irish beef and we always have a signature chocolate desert on the menu that is based on the cocoa husk. At the moment we serve this with a spiced shortbread, caramelised apple puree and toasted walnuts.

Q: As a brand ambassador for SuperValu, how do you ensure that the products you use align with your culinary standards, particularly when working on your restaurant’s menu?

A: The reason I felt SuperValu was such a good brand fit is because the team at SuperValu work tirelessly to find the best produce that Ireland has

to offer This is evident in the signature taste range and all the awards they win at Blas na hÉireann. I also love the fact they have in-store craftspeople from bakers to butchers and a variety of experts in wines and beverages.

“When you buy Irish produce, you’re not only getting ingredients that are at their best in terms of taste and seasonality, you’re also supporting communities, local jobs, and generations of food producers who take pride in what they do.”

When I saw these practices were in place, it was a simple decision to work with SuperValu. It is a brand that holds the same values and passion I have for Irish food. I see it with my own eyes when I am in store that is true when they say “the difference is real”.

Q: SuperValu’s commitment to local produce is a big part of their brand. How important is it for you to source local ingredients in your cooking, and what do you look for when choosing produce?

A: Over the years of working in professional kitchens, I’ve learned the importance of spending money wisely on quality ingredients that bring real depth of flavour and integrity to a dish. For me, sourcing locally isn’t just about freshness; it’s about working with ingredients that come from nearby

farms, growers, and producers who care deeply about their craft.

When you buy Irish produce, you’re not only getting ingredients that are at their best in terms of taste and seasonality, you’re also supporting communities, local jobs, and generations of food producers who take pride in what they do That’s something I’ve always admired about SuperValu, their genuine commitment to championing Irish suppliers and celebrating homegrown food.

Q: What food trends do you see making an impact right now, and how do you stay ahead of the curve when it comes to evolving your menu offerings?

A: The biggest trend worldwide is buying local and supporting local business. Sustainability is a big conversation in the food world so if you can buy something that is locally grown, you are not only supporting the local economy but you are keeping the food miles low on that product, ultimately this is better for environment and will give you a more delicious plate of food to feed the family

Q: What advice would you give to aspiring chefs or food enthusiasts looking to break into the industry, especially in the current climate?

A: I received a piece of advice when I was a young commis chef to always try and work with chefs and kitchens that are trying to be the best at what they do

A big focus for me is to always keep crafts within our industry and training and development is really important when it comes to being a professional chef Learning and understanding butchery, fish mongering, pastry along with professional cookery, is the true meaning of being a professional chef

As an active member of Eurotorques, I am head of the Young Chef of the Year competition, which provides an opportunity for me to give back to community of younger chefs, where I can pass on my knowledge and experience to next generations. ■

One of Mullin’s favourite dishes on the Forbes Street menu is Irish oysters

Convenience you can depend on

A new symbol brand MyDaily has entered the Irish convenience market, created with both shoppers and retailers in mind. ShelfLifespoke with Arron Potts, Head of Development, O’Reilly’s Wholesale to learn more about its arrival and purpose

A new symbol brand has arrived on the Irish convenience scene - and it’s one designed with both shoppers and retailers in mind. O’Reilly’s Wholesale has officially launched MyDaily, a fresh identity that promises to bring greater value and consistency to communities across the island of Ireland. Carrying the brand promise of ‘convenience you can depend on’, MyDaily represents an important new chapter for independent convenience stores. While the convenience sector has never been more competitive, O’Reilly’s Wholesale believes MyDaily strikes the right balance: the reassurance and marketing power of a recognised brand, paired with the independence and community focus that local retailers cherish.

“Convenience retail is evolving rapidly, and consumers are demanding more from their local store - whether that’s sharper pricing, better choice, or a memorable coffee moment,” said Arron Potts, Head of Development, O’Reilly’s Wholesale “With MyDaily, we’re ensuring retailers can deliver all of this whilst maintaining their own community identity.”

Brands ‘backbone’

The backbone of the brand is O’Reilly’s Wholesale who have an established wholesale operation throughout the Island of Ireland. MyDaily will offer a full central billing model and strong partnerships with trusted suppliers across Ireland. For retailers, this means

competitive pricing, smoother operations, and a product mix that’s broad enough to serve diverse shopper needs but adaptable to local preferences.

One stand-out feature as part of the MyDaily brand package is Evaro Coffee, while exclusive for now, the bean-to-cup offering has been created to elevate the everyday coffee moment. Smooth, sweet, and fullbodied, Evaro brings a premium café-style experience into store.

Flexible, ready-to-go food solution

Alongside Evaro, MyDeli provides a flexible, ready-to-go food solution. MyDeli is the foodon-the-go offering from MyDaily, created to meet the everyday needs of busy customers. From breakfast bites to lunchtime favourites and afternoon snacks, it’s a simple way to add value, increase footfall, and boost basket spend.

Whether it’s sandwiches, sausage rolls, salads, wraps, or hot snacks, MyDeli helps retailers serve fresh, tasty food that’s easy to prepare and quick to grab

MyDaily store front

MyDeli. Tasty food, on the go

MyDaily is not just about sharper ranges, great coffee or fresh deli, at it’s heart, the brand is built on partnership By working closely with independent retailers, MyDaily ensures that each store continues to reflect its community while also benefiting from expert category management, tailored retail solutions, and comprehensive marketing support.

A sign of convenience

In a market where shoppers have endless choice, MyDaily is positioning itself as a brand that makes everyday shopping simpler, more rewarding, and more dependable With stores now opening across Ireland - and with Evaro Coffee and MyDeli adding to the in-store experience - MyDaily is shaping up to be more than a new symbol, it’s a sign of convenience you can depend on.

The Future

With its sights firmly set on the future, the company is already investing in an ambitious five-year plan that includes the development of a state-of-the-art warehouse at Martin’s Lane in Newry Marking a major milestone in the company’s growth, the new 12-acre site represents a substantial expansion from their current two-acre base on Rathfriland Road, which has been home since 1993.

“Our five-year plan focuses on sustaining steady growth, and we’re confident that within this timeframe our new facility will be fully operational, allowing us to maximise efficiency across all areas of the business. We have a number of exciting projects in the pipeline, and our sales team is actively developing a growth strategy to drive the wider business forward - because, ultimately, it all starts with them,” added Anne O’Reilly, Director and Head of Business, O’Reilly’s Wholesale ■

Convenience retail is evolving rapidly, and consumers are demanding more from their local store - whether that’s sharper pricing, better choice, or a memorable coffee moment.

O’Reillys Wholesale new warehouse

Evaro Coffee by MyDaily

Ricky O’Brien, foodservice director, has been appointed chair of the Irish Foodservice Suppliers Alliance (IFSA) for the 2025–2027 term, succeeding outgoing chair Conrad Greene

An honours graduate of University College Cork and holder of a core business credential from Harvard Business School, Ricky brings a deep passion for food and the foodservice industry to his leadership

Speaking on his appointment, Ricky said: “It is a great privilege for me to be given the honour of taking the IFSA chair for the 2025–2027 term.

“I look forward to continuing the great work of my Board and predecessor Conrad Greene as we build relationships across the industry and strengthen the bonds with our members.”

Ricky has been with BWG Foods UC since 2006 and was appointed foodservice director in 2020

In this role, he leads the Foodservice Management team across sales, trading, and contracts, with a strong focus on driving growth through independent and contract business, developing foodservice own brands, and spearheading innovation and promotional

initiatives.

BWG Foodservice serves the island of Ireland from three strategically placed state-of-theart depots in Dublin, Cork and Galway supported by 22 Value Centres across the country

It delivers innovative food solutions spanning more than 15,000 products to over 20,000 retailers, caterers, hotels, clubs, restaurants, institutions, health boards, fast food outlets, and publicans.

BWG Foodservice is the foodservice division of BWG Foods, one of the country’s largest wholesale groups.

Nestlé Ireland appoints Ian Cullen as national account controller

Nestlé Ireland has appointed Ian Cullen as national account controller; a newly created role focused on advancing Nestlé’s ambitions within the Irish retail sector

Cullen will oversee delivery of retail plans across an extensive portfolio of products across Nestlé’s confectionery, coffee, pet care, food & nutrition categories.

With more than 25 years’ experience in management and sales across some of Ireland’s most prominent food brands, Ian brings a proven track record of driving growth, innovation and success to his position.

Cullen joins Nestlé from Kerry

Group, where he held a number of senior commercial and strategic roles.

Most recently, he served as European sales director foodservice leading strategic innovation at both regional and global levels.

Prior to joining Kerry Group, Ian was senior business development manager with Dawn Farm Foods and senior customer business manager with Unilever.

A graduate of the National College of Ireland, Ian holds qualifications in Management and Employee Relations.

Speaking about the appointment, Kieran Conroy

country manager, Nestlé Ireland, said: “Ian brings a wealth of experience to Nestlé, gained across a range of high-profile business and management roles.

“He has an exceptional track record of driving growth, building partnerships, and delivering strategic innovation.

“Ian’s strong customer focus will be a strong asset as we deepen our relationships with our retail partners.

“His passion for people development and ability to deliver results through collaboration make him a natural fit for our culture at Nestlé.”

Heneghan has announced the promotion of Michael Hall to senior account manager

Hall first joined Heneghan as an account executive in 2021 before being appointed to account manager in 2023. During this time, he has taken on several roles and has developed extensive experience in supporting clients across a variety of sectors, including corporate, agri-business, renewables, technology, and transport. He contributes to the

agency’s media relations activities, with strong experience in managing political and stakeholder relations and crisis communications.

He was previously a graduate communications officer with Fingal County Council for three years.

Hall is a graduate of the University of Limerick with a BA in History, Politics, Sociology and Social Studies. He holds a master’s in political communications from Dublin

City University, as well as a Diploma in Public Relations from the Public Relations Institute of Ireland.

Heneghan is a leading strategic communications business providing consultancy in corporate communications, financial communications, public affairs, crisis communications, and digital communications. The agency advises a range of Irish and international organisations across the public and private sectors. ■

BWG Foods’ Ricky O’Brien appointed chair of IFSA

BWG Foods’ Ricky O’Brien appointed chair of IFSA

Michael Hall, senior account manager, Heneghan

Michael Hall promoted to senior account manager at Heneghan

Ian Cullen, national account controller, Nestlé Ireland appoints

Celebrating Success

Barry Group honours top retailers and suppliers during its 70th Anniversary celebrations

True to Barry Group’s purpose of Growing Together, their retail partners, suppliers, and team gathered on September 30th in the Great Southern, Killarney to mark both the Group’s 70th year in business and their Annual Conference and Awards. With this year’s theme A Sustainable Future in Retail, the event looked to the future while celebrating seven decades of achievement.

The conference programme brought together leading voices across retail and supplier expertise to equip Barry Group’s retailers with practical insights and inspiration. Sessions explored market dynamics with NIQ’s Darren Blaney, security with security consultant Donal Horgan, and customer experience with Dee Corcoran, CEO of

Chapter Other speakers included Amy Barry, Head of People & Culture in Barry Group who discussed management effectiveness and Lynsey Murphy, Barry Group’s Transformation Manager who leads sustainability within Barry Group.

Central to the agenda were Barry Group’s valued supply partners, who facilitated the Retail Expert Series. These sessions gave delegates the opportunity to learn directly from Elaine Joyce of JTI, Kevin O’Sullivan of Mondelez, Jamie Fulham and Billy Norman of Diageo, Stuart Meikle of Aryzta, Barry Filgate of Tayto Snacks, and Richard Grace and Phil Keenan of Suntory.

Armchair discussions added further depth to the day. Jim Barry and Brian Fox, Managing Director of Regatta Great

Fitzpatrick’s Costcutter, Kilmihil accepts their award for ‘Convenience Store of the Year’

Colin Manning and Anthony O’Brien of Store of the Year Costcutter Bishopstown, along with Jim Barry (Center) of the Barry Group.

Barry Group | Conference & Awards 2025

Outdoors Ireland, shared perspectives on retail excellence, while Edwina Lucey, Sales Director at Barry Group, was joined by Gerry Mullane, Managing Director at MCT Financial Ltd., along with retailers Anthony O’Brien and Michael Fahey, to discuss how retailers can maximise the value of their business for a sustainable future. “While a large proportion of retail success happens at execution level, there is so much more to be accounted for. We believe that the controls within a business play a key role in determining its overall success.” noted Edwina Lucey, Sales Director of Barry Group.

The evening’s Awards ceremony recognised the high standards, innovation, and community commitment demonstrated across the Costcutter and Carry Out symbol groups, along with top-performing supplier partners.

Among the many highlights, O’Brien’s

Costcutter Bishopstown took centre stage, winning the coveted title of Overall Costcutter Store of the Year, alongside awards for Best Forecourt and Best Store Manager, Colin Manning. Other Costcutter winners included Durkin’s Costcutter Baile Na hAbhann, recognised as Deli of the Year, Murphy’s Costcutter Macroom, awarded Wine Store of the Year, and Curtin’s Costcutter Dunmanway, celebrated for both Best Local Initiative and Best Off Licence.

Other Award winners announced were Costcutter Best Urban Sips Concept - Wallace’s Costcutter, Wellington Bridge, Wexford; Costcutter Best POS Execution - Kelly’s Costcutter Foynes; Costcutter Best Impulse

Offering - Duffy’s Costcutter Castlebar; Best Small Store [Up to 2,500 sq. ft]Fitzpatrick’s Costcutter, Kilmihil. Best Large Store [3,501 sq. ft +] - Doherty’s Costcutter, Carndonagh.

The Carry Out symbol group also enjoyed a night of celebration. Fleming’s Carry Out Muckross Road claimed both Best Spirit Store and Best Whiskey Store to already go along with their South West Award, while Keller’s Carry Out Nenagh was named Best Beer Store, and Heffernan’s Carry Out Tullamore triumphed as Best Wine Store. Barrack Street, Waterford and Tuam collected regional awards, Tyrrelstown was recognised as Own Label Champion, and Scariff took home Express Store of the Year

Other Carry Out winners included Customer Service Award - O’Flynn’s Carry Out, Tipperary Town. Capping off

Heffernan’s Carry Out Tullamore triumphed as Best Wine Store.

Templetuohy Foods were recognised as Best Chill & Fresh Supplier

Amy Barry of Barry Group

Carry Out Clongriffin’s Shane Davis and Peter Reynolds celebrate with Jim Barry [left] and Billy Norman [right] of Diageo

Barry Group | Conference & Awards 2025

the night, Clongriffin was honoured as the Overall Carry Out Store of the Year after picking up the North East Regional Award earlier

The supplier awards once again demonstrated the strength of Barry Group’s partnerships. Diageo was awarded Best Alcohol Supplier and Overall Supplier of the Year, Mondelez received Best Ambient Supplier, Templetuohy Foods were recognised as Best Chill & Fresh Supplier, Aryzta retained the Best Chill, Fresh & Frozen Central Billing Supplier Award, and IDL was acknowledged for Best Innovation with their West Coast Cooler Sunburst launch. Costcutter Marketing Supplier of the Year was awarded to Pladis for their inspired work.

Speaking on the night, Jim Barry highlighted the importance of celebrating achievement: “Our awards are a vital ingredient to the conference. They recognise the

dedication, innovation and hard work that is happening every day across our estate and our supplier network. These successes are no small feat and they raise standards for all.”

The evening also included a charity raffle in support of two worthy causes, the Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund (IGBF), which provides financial and practical assistance to members of the grocery trade in need, and The Crann Centre, which offers life long, life changing solutions for people with disabilities and their families. Proceeds were split 50:50 between both charities, reinforcing Barry Group’s strong commitment to community and social responsibility

As Barry Group looks ahead to its next chapter, the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and sustainability will remain central. “Outside of it being our conference theme, a sustainable future in retail is a mindset, one that we

foster and nurture in Barry Group. We cannot achieve this alone; it requires partnership between our Barry Group team, our retail partners and our suppliers,” shared Jim Barry. “The value of days like today is that we can share our insights and start a conversation which will fuel growth and success as an outcome for all parties.”

Team Diageo celebrating their ‘Overall Supplier of the Year’ award.

Tierney’s Costcutter receiving ‘Best Bakery’

Aryzta retained the Best Chill, Fresh & Frozen Central Billing Supplier Award.

Jim Barry participating in the Armchair Discussion with Brian Fox.

Costcutter Carndonagh celebrating their success with their partners at Barry Group.

Barry Group | Conference & Awards 2025

Edwina Lucey, Sales Director at Barry Group, Gerry Mullane, Managing Director at MCT Financial Ltd., along with retailers Anthony O’Brien and Michael Fahey.

Mondelez accepting their ‘Best Ambient Supplier’ from Barry Group Managing Director, Jim Barry.

Alan Shortt, Conference Host.

IDL was acknowledged for Best Innovation here they are with David O’Keeffe, Annmarie Daly and Niall Hartnett of Barry Group.

Best Ambient Central Billing Supplier, Tayto Snacks.

Sustainable Supplier of the Year, Coca-Cola.

Jim Barry, of Barry Group.

Disaronno celebrates 500 years at exclusive Dublin event

Guests on the night learned about the rich heritage of the brand from host Marcus O’Laoire, while enjoying an exclusive Disaronno cocktail menu that reflected the brand’s Italian elegance and history DJ Maria Lawlor set the tone for the evening with great

tunes while Delahunt offered up delicious snacks with a tasty nod to the iconic amaretto. To celebrate the milestone, Disaronno has launched five new Limited Edition bottles that reflect key brand values that have made it the World’s favourite Italian Liqueur - Passion,

Style, Elegance, Dolce Vita, and Beauty The Limited Edition Disaronno bottles are available from stockists nationwide For more information on Disaronno, visit www disaronno.com.*Drink Disaronno Responsibly Pictures Conor McCabe Photography. ■

Clodagh Hogan

(L-R) DJ Maria Lawlor and Marcus O’Laoire (L-R) Robyn Gillespie and guest

(L-R) Muireann Donnelly and Aoibheann Brennan

Tommy Hamzat

(L-R) Pamela Ryan and Paulina Chmielecka

(L-R) Lia Stokes and Siobhan Whelan (L-R) Ian Mulvaney and Peter McElwee Grace Jones

Serving the community through seasons of change

Ryan Brennan spoke to Sandra Nicholson, store owner about how she and her team transformed Gala Keel into ‘vibrant hub’ for the local community

When shoppers step into Gala Keel in Achill, Co. Mayo, they are greeted by a store that reflects the spirit of its community Since taking over in May 2022, the team behind the store has transformed it into a vibrant hub that adapts to the rhythm of island life, offering a warm, well-stocked haven for locals during the quieter winter months and a bustling convenience destination for thousands of visitors in summer

Fresh start

“We first took the shop over in May 2022,” recalls Sandra Nicholson, store owner, Gala Keel “It was changing from XL to Gala, and we completely gutted the place, refrigeration, floor, lights, ceiling, coffee, added back in the deli with a new image, counters, and equipment. We did a full job for two weeks to get us prepared for the season ahead.”

That hard work paid off. Within a year, the store’s popularity necessitated another expansion “In our second season, the shopfitters had to come back to add height to our shelving because we couldn’t keep up with the demand for stock!”

Though originally from Louisburgh, not Achill, Sandra says the community has been hugely supportive:“The locals really got behind what we were

trying to do, which was provide a service for the community in which they would not have to travel to the nearest big town, which is an hour away Some locals still say to us,‘You brought life to Keel again!’”

Seasonal shifts

Life in Keel follows the ebb and flow of tourism, and the Gala store has adapted accordingly.“We are like two different shops, in the sense that we are seasonal,”

Sandra explains.“We provide a nice local convenience store in the winter for the locals, and once Paddy’s Day hits, we are turning the shop around to get ready for the season. The population changes in the peak from 2,000 people to 12,000 people, so we need to cater for that.”

“This transformation means expanding ranges, adding ice cream and beach supplies, and ramping up the deli offering to meet holidaymakers’ needs.“You could literally find anything in-store!” Sandra says with pride

Confectionery stands inside Gala Keel

Gala Keel receiving a ¤5000 Gala Greener Grant

Gala Keel’s baker’s corner.

“Some locals still say to us, ‘You brought life to Keel again!”

Innovation and upgrades

Continuous improvement has been a hallmark of Gala Keel In May 2024, a mini revamp added a new offlicence, which has since become a hit.“We changed the front of the shop to accommodate this, and we were tight on space. We ended up taking confectionery off our tills and putting them where people were queuing, it was a risk that paid off!”

The introduction of Gala’s upgraded Coffee Junction concept also exceeded expectations.“I thought it wouldn’t make much difference, and how wrong was I?

Our sales increased 32%, so I can’t complain after putting it in.”

Strong growth

Operating in a seasonal economy brings unique financial pressures, but the team has managed to thrive “We have to make our money in the summer to survive for the winter, as it can be bleak and we do struggle at times,” the owner explains.“It’s like you have a set of accounts for two shops, one winter, one summer!”

Despite those challenges, sales figures tell a positive story. Since the most recent revamp, Gala Keel has enjoyed an overall growth of 28%. Departmental increases are particularly strong: deli (+27%), off licence (+77%), bakery (+22%), confectionery (+25%), crisps & snacks (+24%), and coffee (+32%).

A valued team

Behind these successes is a committed team of 16 staff, three full-time and 13 part-time, with numbers swelling to around 20 in the busy summer months.“We have people who come back every summer just for the season,” Sandra adds

Creating a strong team culture is essential:“We have a strong culture of respect and open communication. We focus on training, development, and giving responsibility Our aim is to create a positive, happy workplace where people want to stay.”

Community connections

Gala Keel is deeply embedded in the community, regularly supporting local schools and events.“We do a lot of work with the schools on the island, there are three of them, so every holiday we do a colouring competition or give them treats, ” Sandra said Locals also appreciate the store’s efforts to cater to their needs.“We are also one of the few businesses in Keel that keep their doors open for the winter Any suggestions from the locals, we will try to accommodate that in terms of new products.”

Backing from Gala Retail and Gala wholesaler, 4 Aces-BWG

The store has benefited greatly from Gala’s support “We have our ROE, David Mayne, and FFE, Kenneth Moran, who call on us regularly, and their advice is invaluable, especially when we have to change the shop around so often,” explains Sandra.

The Gala concepts have helped boost sales and inspire new ideas, from iced coffee trends to seasonal deli innovations. The wholesaler 4 Aces-BWG Foods has also played a crucial role:“They have been important in keeping us stocked, especially through the summer, and providing us with a great service, but also having a rep helps to keep the prices competitive.”

Value and sustainability

At a time when household budgets are under pressure, value remains a priority.“We try to do everyday offers and essentials that people need, especially with all the

price increases that are coming every day,” the owner added.“We also like to give back to our local customers and run in-store competitions in terms of prizes and vouchers.”

Rising operational costs have been addressed with sustainability in mind “We upgraded our refrigeration through the Gala Greener Grant’s initiative and received €5,000. We’re also exploring solar PV and other long-term solutions to reduce energy bills.”

Recognition and plans

The store’s commitment has not gone unnoticed. Gala Keel has picked up a series of awards, including being awarded‘Chilled store of the year ’ at the recent Gala Retail conference, a Gala Retail Excellence Award in 2024,‘Best Brand Champion’ within the Gala Retail Group, and‘Small Convenience Store of the Year’ at the ShelfLife National C-Store Awards 2023.

Looking ahead, the owner is ambitious about continuing improvements and deepening community engagement.“We like to add seasonal corners,Halloween treats, Christmas hampers, decorations, all in one place. We’re always adjusting to suit our customers.”

Ultimately, the mission remains simple but powerful: “We just want to be part of the community. We often get told,‘For a small shop, you have everything "So this proves to me, and I do my best to provide a bit of everything so people don't have to travel.” ■

“In many ways, we’re two shops in one, changing with the seasons.”

Gala Keel’s Coffee Junction

Distill off-license in-store

Galato, Gala Keel

Deli station inside Gala Keel

Money talks

Following the recent minimum wage increase announcement, Donna Ahern spoke with Nikki Murran, director of Grocery Retail Recruitment at Excel Recruitment, about its impact on the grocery retail industry

Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe announced Budget 2026 onTuesday,7 October,outlining several measures that will directly affect the grocery retail industry Among the changes introduced were a 50-cent increase on a box of 20 cigarettes and the introduction of a new tax of 50 cents per millilitre on e-cigarette liquids,effective from 1 November 2025.Petrol and diesel prices will also rise,adding further pressure to transport and logistics costs.In a move that will be welcomed by some,theVAT rate on food will be reduced from 13.5% to 9%,starting 1 July 2026.

However,the most significant - and potentially most challenging - announcement is that the National Minimum Wage (NMW) will rise to €14.15 per hour from 1 January 2026.This change,while aimed at supporting workers,is expected to place considerable financial and operational strain on businesses across the sector

To better understand how this will impact the industry, ShelfLife spoke with Nikki Murran,director of Grocery Retail Recruitment at Excel Recruitment,for her insights on the potential ramifications.

“The announcement of another minimum wage increase: this time a rise of €0.65,or 4.8%,to €14.15 per hour,will land hard for retailers.On paper,65 cents might not sound seismic, but in the context of recent history,it’s another significant escalation on top of several steep hikes in a row,”she notes.

“To put it in perspective,since 2020,Ireland’s minimum wage has risen from €10.10 to €14.15 - that’s an increase of 40% in six years,compared to just 17% over the entire previous decade (2010 - 2020).For a standard 39-hour

contract,that means a payroll jump from €20,500 in 2020 to €28,700 in 2026.

“For a single staff member,that’s manageable; for a convenience store with 30 staff the additional wage cost can easily exceed €30,000 annually once you include PRSI, holiday pay,and employer pension contributions,a supermarket with a team of 80 - 100 is looking down the barrel of a €90,000 + increase to their annual labour budget

And this is before any ripple effects spreads across the rest of the store,”Murran says.

“The challenge for retailers is that these rises come without any meaningful increase in productivity or margins.Grocery operates on tight margins,and there’s simply no buffer waiting to absorb these increases.While the principle of fair pay is sound,the pace of these hikes - four in four years; leaves very little breathing room for employers to plan,invest,or recover between increases.”

Impact on recruitment

This increase will no doubt impact recruitment within the grocery retail sector,particularly for entry-level roles.

The effect on recruitment is already visible.Each statutory increase immediately raises expectations at the bottom end of the pay scale,blurring the traditional pay differentials between experience levels

“Entry-level roles in grocery; think sales assistants,deli staff, or customer service,that were around €11.70 in 2023 will now benchmark closer to €14 - €14.50 by early 2026, she explains.

“That’s a 20%+ uplift in just three years,even before you

account for higher PRSI and pension costs.The challenge here is that these now significantly more expensive team members don’t bring any corresponding increase in skills or productivity In short,employers are paying substantially more but not getting any extra output in return.”

Three key recruitment challenges

Murran outlined that for employers,this creates three key recruitment challenges:

• Reduced differentiation: A new hire with minimal retail experience now earns almost the same as someone who’s been in-store for several years. That makes retention harder, as the reward for loyalty or experience shrinks

• Compression at the bottom: The entire salary ladder tightens, so employers must reprice roles above entrylevel to maintain fairness and hierarchy.

• Cost-per-hire inflation:With higher wage floors, the value of an inexperienced candidate declines relative to the cost. Employers end up paying significantly more for the same level of skill or output as before.

“This puts particular strain on independent retailers and smaller symbol groups,who already face higher recruitment costs and lower brand leverage than the big multiples.For them,entry-level is fast becoming an expensive level,”she sates

“To manage this,many of my clients are becoming far more strategic with every hire They’re partnering with us to ensure each recruitment decision delivers clear value - focusing

on candidates who will strengthen performance,reduce staff turnover,and deliver a measurable return on investment With payroll costs climbing so sharply,every new hire now has to justify their place on the roster.”

Impact on SMEs

So,how will this wage hike affect small and medium-sized (SME) grocery businesses compared to larger chains?

“Large chains can absorb wage increases more easily because they can spread higher costs across centralised buying,automation,and shared back-office functions.They also have the scale to negotiate better supplier terms and can offset rising labour costs through efficiencies elsewhere in the business, Murran highlights.

“For small and medium-sized retailers,it’s a very different story.They face the exact same hourly increase but with far fewer levers to pull Their margins are often just as tight,their cost bases less flexible,and they rely heavily on personal service to compete with the multiples.The employer PRSI rate,which rose to 11.25% in late 2025,adds another few basis points to every payroll hour,compounding the impact of the wage hike

“KPMG’s retail analysis highlights that smaller operators have much less ability to absorb fixed-cost shocks,as labour typically accounts for 30 - 40% of their total operating costs, compared to 20 - 25% in larger chains.That gap means every statutory rise hit independents harder.”

Unintended consequences

There is growing concern that the increase may lead to unintended consequences for employers,including reduced staff hours and a slowdown in hiring

“We’re already seeing the signs; not so much slower hiring, but much more strategic hiring for every replacement.There’s now a laser focus on staff rotas,weekly labour cost reviews, and ensuring every paid hour delivers value,”she highlights. Looking ahead to 2026,here’s what the industry can expect to see:

• Tighter rosters:Expect greater scrutiny on every scheduled hour. Fixed contracts may give way to more flexible shifts that can be scaled up or down depending on trading patterns

• Automation creep:Each wage rise strengthens the business case for technology; from self-checkouts to AI-based stock management - gradually reducing reliance on manual labour.

• More deliberate replacement hiring:When staff leave, replacements aren’t being hired automatically. The focus is shifting to productivity and ROI per employee It’s no longer about filling gaps quickly, but about hiring smarter, based on the store’s real needs. This is where we’ve seen a surge in demand from our clients since the last wage increase - ensuring every new addition is worth the higher salary they now command.

“It’s a delicate balance.Retailers genuinely want to protect staff hours and service levels,but with labour costs climbing another 5%,alongside ongoing increases in insurance,utilities, and compliance,many are finding their hands are tied,” Murran adds

Salary advice

Will the increase in the minimum wage change how she advises her clients on salary benchmarking and workforce planning?

“Absolutely,”Murran asserts.

“Many of our clients rely on us for market analysis and salary benchmarking,and looking ahead to next year,here’s what I’ll be recommending:

• Adopt deliberate, value-driven hiring - ensuring every new addition genuinely strengthens performance and delivers a return on investment

• Refresh salary bands now so they still ladder above €14.15 in 2026. It’s essential to protect pay differentials and avoid compression between entry-level and supervisory roles.

• Use the widened USC 2% band to communicate net pay clearly to staff - a full-time minimum-wage earner will now sit fully within that band, so it’s worth showing employees their true take-home improvements

• Lock in structured progression so trainee and duty manager roles don’t collapse into the new floor as it rises.A clear development pathway protects morale and retention.

• Invest in in-house training to upskill and empower these now-more-expensive new hires. Increasing

This puts particular strain on independent retailers and smaller symbol groups, who already face higher recruitment costs and lower brand leverage than the big multiples. For them, entrylevel is fast becoming an expensive level.”

capability and productivity across entry-level teams will help offset higher wage costs.

• Leverage non-monetary rewards - recognition, flexibility, career growth, and positive culture - to drive engagement and retention, rather than joining an endless bidding war for talent.

“The goal for 2026 won’t just be to manage higher payroll costs,but to maximise output per euro spent.Retailers who plan early and take a structured,data-led approach will be in the best position to absorb this latest increase without compromising service or profitability.”

Wage compression

No doubt,the wage increase could influence wage expectations across other roles beyond the minimum wage level.

“This is perhaps the most underestimated part of the conversation - wage compression.When the minimum wage rises,it doesn’t just lift those on the lowest rung; it pulls the entire pay structure up behind it,”she points out.

“Let’s take an example: In 2020,a typical sales assistant might have earned €10.50/hour,while a duty manager earned €13.50/hour - a €3.00 differential.

“By 2026,with the base rate at €14.15/hour,that same

duty manager will need to earn €17 - €18/hour just to maintain that same gap.

“That’s a €4/hour increase,or roughly €8,000 extra annually for one mid-level employee Multiply that across an entire management team,and you can see how the“ripple” quickly becomes a wave

“The result is that even roles never intended to be linked to the minimum wage; trainee managers,assistant managers, fresh food supervisors all require upward adjustments to preserve internal equity and morale.Otherwise,you end up with new hires earning nearly as much as their supervisors, which is demotivating and destabilising.

“In practice,this means a 5% minimum wage increase often translates into 8 - 10% increases across total payroll costs once knock-on adjustments are made.Retailers can’t simply freeze those higher-level salaries without risking turnover. ”

Team values

Murran highlighted that that every retailer that she works with truly values their teams and wants to see staff paid fairly and rewarded for their hard work

“Nobody in this industry is arguing against fair pay,”she points out

“If this were the only recent cost increase,it would be far easier to shoulder

“But this latest wage hike comes on top of so many other pressures: continuous rises in insurance premiums,the cost and complexity of implementing the Deposit Return Scheme, still escalating retail crime that remains largely unaddressed, the recent increase in employer PRSI,and the imminent rollout of pension auto-enrolment Each one adds another layer to an already heavy cost base.

“And yet,despite all of that,we still have an army of incredible,motivated,and dedicated retailers showing up day after day,delivering exceptional standards and outstanding customer service.Their resilience,passion,and pride in what they do are what keep the Irish grocery sector running strong,” Murran concludes.

USC increase

The increase in the 2% USC rate band to €28,700 is a notable change for low- to middle-income earners,potentially offering modestrelief byreducingtheportionof incomesubjecttohigher USC rates.However,its overall impact may be limited when weighed against ongoing inflation and recent wage increases.

“It helps at the margin for lower earners A full-time minimum-wage worker at €14.15 earns about €28,696, which neatly fits under the new €28,700 ceiling (once they are on 39 hours or less).That prevents them tipping into the higher USC rates in 2026,which is sensible But it doesn’t offset the full employer cost increase; it just limits the employee’s USC exposure,”she explains.

These Budget measures raise important questions about whether they strike the right balance between supporting workers and managing employer burdens in the retail sector

“Protecting low earners is important,and aligning the USC band is logical,”she maintains.

“But with wage floors advancing by around 40% since 2020,many grocers operating on slim margins are absorbing a lot of structural cost with limited offset elsewhere.Without parallel measures that lower operating costs or raise productivity,such as insurance relief,targeted employment supports,or genuine red-tape reduction,this keeps pushing stores toward tighter margins,asking how much is really left to squeeze. ” ■

The recent Londis Conference “Achieving together towards 2027” was a wonderful opportunity to pay homage to those Londis retailers who received Londis Retailing Excellence Awards 2025. The event recognised stores that demonstrated exceptional standards in areas such as fresh food quality, customer service, and store presentation. The awards, independently assessed by Solution Management Associates (SMA), highlight the commitment of Londis retailers to excellence in convenience retailing.

Conor Hayes, Londis Sales Director, praised the winners, saying:

Honours Top Retailers at Annual Retailing Excellence Awards Ceremony

“The Londis Retailing Excellence Awards celebrate retailers who go above and beyond in delivering quality, service, and innovation. These awards shine a spotlight on the passion and professionalism that define our Londis network. Their recognition is richly deserved.”

Londis was delighted to celebrate those Londis retailers who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to maintaining operational excellence in their stores and providing outstanding customer service in receiving their Londis Retailing Excellence Awards 2025

Andrew Brodigan, Joanne Brodigan, Brodigan’s Londis Quay Street, Dundalk, Eric Rocks, Ailse Rocks, Stephanie Rocks, Rocks’ Londis Castletown Road, Dundalk alongside Tommy Devlin, Londis RDM.

Minde Vasilauskas, Victoria Vasilauskas, Danielle McKenna, Ciaran McKenna, McKenna’s Londis Ballymacarry, McKenna’s Londis Drung, Ciara Bonner, Carmel Bonner, Bonner’s Londis Convoy, Marc Brown, Foley’s Londis Drumlonagher alongside Shane Hopkins, Londis RDM.

Mohammad Chishty, Chishty’s Londis Adamstown, Paddy Patterson, Patterson’s Londis Foxrock, Mim Rahaman, Mijanur Rahaman, Shajibul Islam, Londis Golden Lane alongside Declan Boyle, Londis RDM.

Evan Corridan and Steve Watson, Watson’s Londis Duagh.

Aidan Flynn, Elaine Flynn, Flynn’s Londis Clara, alongside Declan Boyle, Londis RDM.

Harry Kelly, Denis Heffernan, John Cronin and Seamus Kelly, Kelly’s Londis Rathmore, Kelly’s Londis Milltown.

Philly Cullen, Larissa Zaharia, Sharon Cullen, Dolores Bent, Hanrahan’s Londis Wexford Town, with Nora Cousins and Caroline Doyle, Canavan’s Londis Inch and Raymond Still and Michael Hanrahan, Hanrahan’s Londis Piercetown, alongside Dermot O’Neill, Londis RDM.

Jim McConnon McConnon’s Londis Old Cross Square, Monaghan, Caitlin Kearney, Dara Daly, Noeleen Cassidy, Melissa Kieran, Karen Fitzpatrick, Sorcha Hardy, Cassidy’s Londis Carrickmacross, Brendan McCleary, McCleary’s Londis New Terrace, Monaghan Town alongside Declan Boyle, Londis RDM.

Alan Lifely, Kellie Burke, Ray Sheehan, Eileen Sheehan, Caoilinn Sheehan, Sheehan’s Londis Parkgate Street, alongside Terry O’Brien, Londis RDM.

Gyan Gautam, Shamas Ashraf, Londis Newcastle Road, Galway and Sophie Bailey and Inga Latuskeviciute McGreal’s Londis Renmore alongside Shane Hopkins, Londis RDM.

Gillian Aherne, Éanna Burke, Stella Aherne, Liam Aherne, Aherne’s Londis Smith O’Brien Street, Aherne’s Londis Thurles, Martin Burke, Maher’s Londis Cashel Road, Clonmel, Bill Aherne, Aherne’s Londis Smith O’Brien Street, Aherne’s Londis Thurles, alongside Dermot O’Neill, Londis RDM.

Emma Rossiter, Caroline Howlin, Shauna Bail, Deirdre Carty, Londis Castlebridge and Daria Chabros, Hillary O’Brien, Jimmy O’Brien, Ellen O’Brien, Lauren Kinsella and Caroline Rochford, O’Brien’s Londis Larkin’s Cross, alongside Declan Boyle, Londis RDM.

Michelle McNamee, Kevin McNamee, Kayleigh Honeywell, Debbie Aherne, Grainne Griffin, McNamee’s Londis Kilkee, Londis Darragh, Londis Kilmaley, Londis Miltown Malbay, alongside Ger Greaney, Londis RDM.

Niall Doolan, Doolan’s Londis Clane, Caoimhe O’Haire, Aisling O’Haire, Cully’s Londis Prosperous, Gerry Casey, Katie Casey, Casey’s Londis Newbridge, Shajibul Islam, Londis Main Street, Maynooth, Clare Raleigh, Aggarwal’s Londis Rathangan, Ann-Marie Rath, Rath’s Londis Castledermot, alongside Declan Boyle, Tommy Devlin and Dermot O’Neill Londis RDMs

Niall Clarke, Clarke’s Londis Dublin Road, Dundalk alongside Tommy Devlin Londis RDM.

Londis Adare

Londis Quay Street, Dundalk

Londis Rathmore

Londis Duagh

Londis Ennis Road, Limerick

Londis Lixnaw

Londis New Terrace, Monaghan Town

Londis Wexford Town

Londis Dublin Road, Trim

Londis Granard

Londis Kilmaley

Londis Kilcormac

Londis Heuston Station

Londis Darragh

Londis Our Lady’s Island

Londis Killorglin

Londis Breaffy Road, Castlebar

Londis Old Cross Square, Monaghan

Londis Convoy

Londis Clarinbridge

Londis Mervue

Londis Castledermot

Londis Malahide

Londis Athenry

Londis Maynooth

Londis Castletroy

Londis Doneraile

Londis Moneen Roundabout, Castlebar

Londis Mountmellick

Londis Carlow

Londis Carrickmacross

Londis Gorey

Londis Rathangan

Londis Castletown Road, Dundalk

Londis Boyle

Londis Clongeen

Londis Collon

Londis Dublin Road, Dundalk

Londis Castleblayney

Londis Templemore

Londis Tramore

Londis Blanchardstown

Londis Kentstown

Londis Drumlonagher

Londis Renmore

Londis Maynooth Students Union

Londis Milltown

Londis Castleknock

Londis Thurles

Londis Newbridge

Londis Fethard-on-Sea

Londis Aughrim

Londis Rosscarbery

Londis Castlebar

Londis Crossmolina

Londis Tralee

Londis The Mater Hospital

Londis Cleveragh Road

Londis St James’s Hospital

Londis Dublin City University

Londis Larkin’s Cross

Londis Navan

Londis Inch

Londis Piercetown

Londis Athlone Road, Roscommon

Londis Rosslare

Londis Castlebridge

Londis Sandyford Industrial Estate

Londis Dock Road, Limerick

Londis Balla

Londis Crushrod Avenue, Drogheda

Londis Foxrock

Londis Clane

Londis KCR

Londis Smith O’Brien Street, Thurles

Londis Ardee Road, Dundalk

Londis Parkgate Street

Londis Prosperous

Londis Ballymacarry

Londis Bawnogue

Londis Clara

Londis Miltown Malbay

Londis Lugduff

Londis Golden Lane, Dublin

Londis Circular Road Ballina

Londis Drung

Londis Cleaboy

Londis Kilkelly

Londis Adamstown

Londis Athboy

Katie Casey, Gerry Casey, Londis Ballina, Londis Castlebar, Londis Balla, with Bradley O’Donnell, Higgins’ Londis Kilkelly and John Mulroy, Londis Breaffy Road, Castlebar and Londis Moneen Roundabout Castlebar alongside Shane Hopkins, Londis RDM.

Mairead Donegan and Declan McCrann Londis Cleveragh Road, Sligo alongside Shane Hopkins, Londis RDM.

Seamus Griffin and David Bridgette, Griffin’s Londis Heuston Station, Londis Sandyford Industrial Estate, Londis St James’s Hospital, Londis The Mater Hospital and Londis Bawnogue, alongside Terry O’Brien Londis RDM.

Jim Casey, Maria Casey, Londis Athlone Road, Roscommon alongside Shane Hopkins, Londis RDM.

Gerry Casey, Katie Casey, Londis Ennis Road, Limerick and Londis Dock Road, Limerick, with Karen Curtin and David Curtin, Londis Adare alongside Gerard Greaney, Londis RDM.

Nick Ye, Londis DCU, Aisling Shiel, Krista Shiel Londis Malahide and Jonathan Gillan, Londis Castleknock, alongside Terry O’Brien Londis RDM.

Caolac Monaghan, Jennifer Monaghan and Teresa Kennedy, Londis Kentstown, Linda Merriman and Louise Jordan, Gillen’s Londis Dublin Road, Trim, alongside Tommy Devlin Londis RDM.

Joe McCormac, Londis St John’s Park, Waterford, Edgar Kolodziek and Kevin Jephson, Londis Cleaboy, alongside Dermot O’Neill, Londis RDM.

Fiona Tierney, Jana Simunekova, Maeve Farrell and Brian Torley, Londis Maynooth Students Union alongside Declan Boyle, Londis RDM.

Johnathan Conway and Thomasina Conway, Doyle’s Londis Coolcotts and Brendan Bernes, Bernes’ Londis Gorey alongside Dermot O’Neill and Declan Boyle Londis RDMs.

Ann-Marie Rath, Bridget Rath and Willie Rath, Rath’s Londis Carlow, alongside Dermot O’Neill, Londis RDM.

Seamus Griffin and David Bridgette, Griffin’s Londis Crushrod Avenue, alongside Terry O’Brien Londis RDM.

Caoimhe Byrne and Teresa Byrne, Londis Aughrim, Rita Keating and June Persson, Londis Lugduff, alongside Terry O’Brien Londis RDM.

Val Boggan and Paul Boggan, Londis Rosslare, Emily Gleeson and Eimear Whelan Londis Fethard on Sea and Marguerite Sinnott and Anne Sinnott, Londis Clongeen, alongside Dermot O’Neill Londis RDM.

Noel O’Donovan and Natasha Burke, O’Reilly’s Londis Rosscarbery alongside Gerard Greaney, Londis RDM.

Londis Shrule

Londis Campile

Londis Cashel Road, Clonmel

Londis Bellurgan

Londis Drogheda Road, Ardee Londis Newcastle Road, Galway

Londis Enniskeane

Londis Newcastle, Clonmel Londis St John’s Park, Waterford

Londis Kilkee Londis Enniscorthy Londis Coolcotts

Elevating retail strategy

Modern cash & carry stores have evolved into vibrant hubs serving retailers, foodservice professionals, and small business owners. ShelfLife reports

Today’s cash & carry model is a far cry from the no-frills warehouses of the past.

In 2025, these outlets are vibrant, streamlined, and deeply customer-focused— offering smart store layouts, tailored promotions, and seamless, tech-enabled B2B service. Gone are the days of cluttered aisles and purely transactional experiences. Modern cash & carry stores now function as dynamic business hubs for independent retailers, foodservice operators, and small enterprises. They provide not only a vast range of competitively priced products but also

Stonehouse Fact File

Name: Janice Gibney, chief operations officer

Company: Stonehouse Marketing Ltd

Number of branches nationwide: 22

Number of lines in product listing: +36,000

Tagline: ‘Ireland’s leading Independent Wholesaler & Distributor Group’

Ordering options (website, telephone orders etc): On-line / Telesales / Cash & Carry

Typical opening hours: 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday

Q: Tell us a bit about yourself and your current role. What does a typical day look like for you?

A: I joined Stonehouse over 19 years ago and was appointed as chief operations officer in April 2023.

As chief operations officer my role is to implement and execute the company

essential value-added services such as digital ordering, real-time inventory tracking, business consultancy, and flexible delivery or click-andcollect options.

These outlets are increasingly data-driven, using advanced analytics and AI to forecast demand, optimise stock levels, and personalise the buying journey. AI-powered inventory management systems streamline operations, while targeted promotions help customers maximise margins. Loyalty programs, mobile apps, and intuitive interfaces further enhance convenience.

strategy as outlined by the board of directors.

We are a small team in Stonehouse Central office so it is essential I oversee all areas of the business ensuring processes are efficient and effective which in turn ensures the team can work at an optimal level.

As well as managing our central office I provide support to our members on all areas of their business, keep them up to date with ever changing legislation and requirements to ensure compliance across the group Stonehouse central office brings members together to secure competitive pricing and enable collaboration to assist individual member growth which ensures total group growth.

Sustainability is also a growing priority, with brands investing in energy-efficient lighting, eco-friendly packaging, and responsible sourcing. Many operators now promote local suppliers and reduce waste as part of broader ESG commitments.

With the wholesale sector more competitive than ever, staying agile and informed is essential. Explore the latest innovations from leading cash & carry brands to uncover new opportunities, sharpen your retail strategy, and position your business for long-term success in an evolving market.

No day is the same in this ever-changing fast-moving industry so it is essential to be able to re-prioritise my workload on a daily basis.

A typical Monday for me starts with working through e-mails, followed my our weekly office meeting, the team work a >>

Janice Gibney, chief operations officer, Stonehouse

Stonehouse Celebrating 25 Years

>> hybrid model, working from home and in the office so we always ensure we are all in the office on a Monday, this fosters a good team environment and everyone gets to share their priorities for the week which in turn allows us establish if anyone requires additional resources or support in the week ahead.

I then work on the key strategic items required for completion in the period, which includes consulting with the team in the central office on an ongoing basis, as well as daily interactions with members and suppliers on various parts of the business.

Q: What’s been the standout moment for your business so far in 2025? Any highlights or milestones you’re particularly proud of?

A: 2025 is an incredibly special and important year for Stonehouse as we celebrate our 25th year in business. This quarter of a century milestone is an amazing achievement for the group, but 25 years is only a fraction to the existence of Stonehouse members.

April this year marked the 25th Anniversary of the merger of Nation Wholesale Grocers Alliance established in 1961 and Keencost founded in 1971 so while

Cash & Carry CATEGORY FOCUS

Stonehouse is in existence 25 years our members have been trading so much longer this year one of our founding members M&P O’Sullivan are celebrating 120 years in business.

With so much change in the Irish market as well as continuing consolidation we are very proud to add so many new members to the group over the past three years and this year we welcomed Seery’s of Athlone, who are a perfect fit and great addition to the Group

Q: How do you keep your business ahead of the competition in such a fast-moving market?

A: Our relationships with our suppliers and customers are key to doing business. Continued collaboration with suppliers and working together as a group allows us to ensure we bring the best value to our customers on a daily basis.

Q: The cost-of-living crisis continues to impact businesses and customers alike. What steps are you taking to offer strong value, pricing, and promotions right now?

A: We continually work together with suppliers to ensure we are competitive in the market. Increasing legislation is having a considerable

impact on the cost of doing business in Ireland so we watch our costs closely to ensure no unnecessary costs impact our customers.

Q: Can you talk us through your sustainability approach?

A: We are currently at the start of our sustainability journey, executing our sustainability strategy is now part of our ongoing agenda and assisting our members on their sustainability journey plays a major part in this.

Q: Looking ahead to 2026, what innovations or plans are in the pipeline that your customers should be excited about?

A: Our plan for 2026 and beyond is to continue to grow our membership, maintain our strong retail business and develop our foodservice, fresh & frozen offering ensuring Stonehouse members become the one stop shop for all our customer’s needs. We will continue to collaborate with suppliers and customers, maintaining our personal approach, continued value for money and extensive customer reach, all with sustainability at the forefront of our minds.

44 CATEGORY FOCUS Cash

Musgrave MarketPlace

Q: Tell us a bit about yourself and your current role. What does a typical day look like for you?

A: In my role I oversee strategic sales initiatives across the Republic of Ireland, particularly focused on Musgrave MarketPlace and foodservice channels. A typical day for me includes reviewing sales performance dashboards and KPIs; connecting with our team leads to align on priorities and addressing any urgent issues; as well as meeting with key accounts or partners to maintain relationships and explore growth opportunities.

We will spend time evaluating market trends and competitor activity to inform our sales strategy – this can include strategic planning sessions or cross-functional meetings with marketing, supply chain, or finance. My role is all about collaborating with the team on broader commercial initiatives constantly striving to bring innovation and solutions to our customers. I also like to take time to walk the floor to understand what the challenges are and to talk to customers – to see how we can make business that little bit easier for them.

Q: With your customers juggling busy schedules, how have you made it quicker and easier for them to place orders when they need to?

A: At Musgrave MarketPlace, we are always looking for new and innovative ways to improve our customer service. We appreciate the challenging environment that our customers operate in therefore, we are focused on building the strongest service proposition in the market – whilst providing the most extensive range at the best value Our strapline, Business Made Easy, embodies this commitment to building trusted relationships with our customers while delivering exceptional service.

Our branches are open seven days a week with extended opening hours and delivery routes. Nationwide delivery (six days a week) and a 24/7 online ordering system are available, allowing customers to shop at a time that suits them.

We invested significantly in our online ordering system, and we continue to see order numbers grow Making it as simple

and user friendly as possible was critical – and it has proven successful with almost 80% of orders now going through online The digital space is a core part of our overall business strategy, and we are committed to innovating in this space further to ensure we deliver a world-class customer experience.

Q: How have you enhanced the experience within your physical locations to make visits both enjoyable and efficient for your customers?

A: As a business, we are committed to redefining Irish food and beverage wholesaling and a huge part of that is a focus on delivering a best-in-class experience for our customers. The reimagination of our Ballymun Food Emporium ensures that we are providing the most extensive food and beverage range at the best possible value – all with a market leading service proposition.

Now with over 1,000 additional products, upgraded food and beverage zones, a revamped and extended Butchery offering and walk-in chill room, our customers can enjoy all that the revamped branch has to offer We also have introduced an extensive Fruit & veg range of whole and prepped products.

Declan Flood, director of Foodservice and MarketPlace sales

Q: Strong value is obviously critical – how are you working to ensure customers receive the best pricing and promotions?

A: We have invested significantly in our own-brand offerings, circa 300 lines, and our customers can get up to 50% savings by shopping these ranges which are over 33% cheaper than the branded equivalent. This year, we have cut the prices on over 250 products that matter most to our customers as well as committing to low everyday prices on over 500 products.

Q: Can you talk us through your sustainability approach? What initiatives or credentials set your company apart in this area?

A: Across the Musgrave Group, we have a strong commitment to carry out our business in the most sustainable fashion and, through our ‘Growing Sustainably Every Day’ strategy, are proud of the steps we have taken on this journey.

At Musgrave MarketPlace, we are committed to doing everything possible to build a more sustainable future. Whether that is through our partnership with Foodcloud, which continues to deliver a substantial reduction in food waste or through the installation of solar panels at our locations around Ireland. All focused on making a difference and positive impact on the environment.

Q: Looking ahead to 2026, what innovations or plans are in the pipeline that your customers should be excited about?

A: 2026 is set to be another exciting year with plans to invest in a number of our MarketPlace food emporiums building on the success of Ballymun. Customer service will remain at the heart of all we do – we will continue to develop our own brand range to bring more value and innovation, and our digital platform will remain at the forefront to enhance the customer experience even further

Digital signage inside Musgrave MarketPlace

Spirits zone at Musgrave MarketPlace

Musgrave MarketPlace entrance

Musgrave MarketPlace Business Made Easy

Value offerings in-store

Value Centre

BWG Foods’ Value Centre Cash & Carry network is driving wholesale excellence across Ireland

The continued success of Value Centre reflects the strength and strategic vision behind BWG Foods’ nationwide Cash & Carry network. With 21 branches strategically located across Ireland, BWG delivers true national coverage: serving every town and major hub with consistency, reliability, and a deep understanding of local business needs.

This network is more than a distribution model. It’s a dynamic wholesaler built on nearly six decades of industry leadership Through ongoing investment in infrastructure, technology, and customer experience, BWG has transformed the traditional Cash & Carry model into a modern, efficient, and customer-focused operation.

Customer engagement that goes beyond transactions

At the heart of BWG’s success is its exceptional and experienced sales team, led by Cash & Carry Sales Director Paul Bealin. This passionate group, both in-person and telesales, offers more than service; they provide trusted advisory support, helping customers stay ahead of market trends and product innovations.

Whether serving XL retailers, independent stores, licensed trade, or hospitality outlets, Value Centre’s sales team delivers personalised solutions that build loyalty, foster strong relationships to help drive growth.

The passion of the team is, for Paul, the most defining element of differentiation between BWG Foods and competitors. His team is one of the largest sales team in the industry and their experience and passion are unmatched and, certainly, unrivalled.

“It is a very talented and dedicated team, and each member is truly passionate about what they do,” agrees Paul. “They are hugely committed to helping our customers succeed and pride themselves on the valueadded service they provide those customers. The local knowledge they

possess is invaluable and really sets us apart from other Wholesalers.

“We take great satisfaction in seeing our customers prosper and their businesses perform.”

Competitive pricing and promotions delivering value

Value Centre’s dedicated team work tirelessly to ensure their customers have access to the best and most competitive offers. National promotions run every three weeks, complemented by seasonal campaigns that deliver exceptional value year-round.

Each Value Centre branch also offers localised deals tailored to the needs of its customer base

This commitment to value is why independent, non-branded retailers consistently choose BWG, which is a clear endorsement of BWG’s pricing competitiveness and trusted service.

“These independent retailers and industry operators have a choice to make regarding whom they do business with and where they purchase their goods. That they consistently choose to rely on Value Centre is the strongest endorsement we could ask for,” explains Paul.

Technology empowering customers

BWG’s award-winning e-commerce platform, ShopLink, is a game-changing ordering platform for customers. Available 24/7, 365 days a year, ShopLink integrates with EPOS and the supply chain, giving customers realtime access to stock availability, promotions and pricing. Customers have the ability to order online directly, through their dedicated Sales Rep, via Value Centre’s Telesales Team,

or by visiting their local depot, which ensures flexibility and convenience.

With a 97% service level and expert customer support, Value Centre ensures all clients are able to stay competitive and meet their customers’ daily needs.

Sustainability at scale

BWG is committed to reducing its environmental footprint through initiatives such as:

• CNG-powered and electric delivery vehicles

• Surplus food donations in partnership with FoodCloud

• The addition of Solar Panel energy capture throughout its nationwide network

These efforts reflect BWG’s dedication to sustainability while supporting local communities.

Looking ahead

Despite the challenging landscape, BWG’s Value Centre Cash & Carry nationwide network delivered strong year-on-year growth for 2025. With continued investment, strategic acquisitions, such as the recent addition of Perry’s Wholesale in Carlow and a relentless focus on customer success, BWG is poised to elevate the wholesale experience even further in the year ahead. ■

‘So much more for much less’

Paul Bealin, Cash & Carry Sales Director, BWG Foods

Turning up the heat

Cost-effective winter heating solutions, including firelighters, coal, and briquettes, help households stay warm affordably, ShelfLife reports

With energy costs still a top concern in 2025, cost-effective home heating solutions remain essential. Firelighters, coal, briquettes, and other solid fuels continue to play a vital role in helping households stay warm without breaking the bank. Retailers can make a real difference by offering a well-curated range of reliable, value-for-money heating products.

According to recent research by Bord Bia, 62% of Irish consumers cite affordability as their primary consideration when purchasing heating fuels, with reliability and ease of use close behind. This highlights the ongoing importance of stocking trusted brands and products that deliver consistent performance at an accessible price point.

The latest trends and in-demand winter fuel

ZIP leads the way with natural firelighters and fuel

There is a clear and growing shift towards eco-friendly products in Ireland, driven mainly by concern over climate change, government initiatives, and businesses adopting more sustainable practices like packaging, supply chains and energy use This shift is also evident in firelighter and fuel sales. While the market remains relatively small, sales of natural firelighters have seen a significant increase—almost doubling within a year*.

ZIP is leading the way with natural firelighters and fuel with its new and innovative ZIP Great Bags of Fire and the ZIP 100% Natural Heat Briquettes. Similar to the new ZIP Great Bags of Fire the ZIP Heat Briquettes are also made using sustainably sourced willow, which is compressed, producing high heat efficiency and a long clean burn. A perfect replacement for those switching from turf/peat – the Heat Briquettes are available now in Tesco’s and Tesco Express.

While an eco-friendly offering is important to ZIP, the core range is not forgotten about. ZIP offers a wide range of firelighters and fuel for all needs.

ZIP’s original High-Performance All-Purpose Firelighter for those who are into the classics; the ZIP Individually Wrapped Firelighters for those who like a powerful firelighter but also want to keep their hands clean and ZIP’s Starterlog, for those who want an ambient fire

options, from eco-friendly briquettes to compact firelighters and high-efficiency coal, providing retailers with insights on how to tailor their offering, to support customers through the cold season.

By understanding consumer priorities and promoting value-for-money solutions,

in minutes or a super-powerful firelighter ZIP also recognises that an efficient wood burning stove can not only be more cost efficient but is better at heating the home.*** According to ZIP, consumers have said that they feel like a stove is better for heat retention with one commenting “it warms the bones of the house”, which is why it also offers a range of fuels to accompany the firelighters. This includes low moisture Kiln Dried Firewood & Irish Kiln Dried Kindling, 100% Natural Heatlogs, Smokeless Coal and, as previously mentioned, the new ZIP Heat Briquettes.

ZIP remains committed to supporting consumers with products that deliver both performance, efficiency and environmental responsibility Whether it’s embracing innovative natural solutions like the new ZIP Great Bags of Fire and the 100% Natural Heat Briquettes, or relying on trusted favourites from the core range, ZIP ensures there’s a firelighter and fuel for every need and every home Keeping Ireland cosy and warm this winter #giveyourfiresomezip

Q&A with… Frank Cahalan, commercial controller Ireland, ZIP

Q: How is Ireland’s transition away from traditional peat and turf fires influencing innovation in the firelighter market?

A: Although the Natural firelighter segment is still relatively small, compared to more

retailers can not only drive sales but also build lasting customer loyalty during the highdemand winter period.

With careful planning and a strong product mix, solid fuels remain a crucial part of keeping homes warm, safe, and affordable throughout the 2025 winter season.

traditional formats, we have seen that demand has increased on ZIP lines with our Natural Firelighters almost doubling in unit sales M.A.T. 6 September 2025 vs YA*. We plan to continue to grow the segment as a whole with our new product lines that are made in Ireland.

Q: What impact have recent regulations around solid fuel emissions had on consumer demand for cleaner fire-lighting solutions?

A: We have seen a big shift towards woodbased fuels. Wood was just over a quarter (26%) of the fuel market two years ago but is now just under half (49%) in € / 29% 2YA to 50% in units*. Heat briquettes particularly are growing in popularity with their enhanced burn time and heat output vs natural wood solutions.

Q: What inspired the development of ZIP Great Bags of Fire, and how does it differ from your existing firelighter products?

A: The inspiration for the NEW ZIP Great Bags of Fire reflects our commitment to future proofing our product range in response to ever evolving government regulations, shifting consumer expectations, and the growing demand for environmentally conscious solutions. As our consumers continue to change its important that we are offering products that are not only effective but also sustainable and, where possibly, locally made

and proven efficacy. Our customers trust the brand to get the job done - they know our firelighters will light first time, every time, even with hard-to-light fuels.

Our complete range of fuels and firelighters caters to everyone from traditionalists to time-poor convenience shoppers and the ecoconscious. All our products are simple and easy to use, making them accessible to all.

We are proud to be Ireland’s No.1 branded firelighter*

Sources:

*NielsenIQ ROI Data 52wks to 07.09.2025.

Fuel CATEGORY FOCUS

**https://www.allirelandsustainability.com/sustainablebusiness-practices-in-ireland

*** References - The

Our vision was to produce a natural firelighter that delivers the same trusted performance as our world-class kerosene firelighters, while meeting the needs of today’s eco-conscious consumer We didn’t just want to create any natural firelighter we set out to develop something truly innovative, sustainable, and proudly Irish-made Cinnamon, one of the key ingredients, is a natural material with properties that help with fast ignition, enhancing the firelighter’s performance without compromising its environmental credentials.

ZIP Great Bags of Fire offer a powerful, natural alternative for consumers who want a cleaner, greener choice of firelighter without sacrificing quality or convenience. It’s a product born from consumer insight, environmental responsibility, and home-grown innovation.

Keep an eye out in-store and try it for yourself

Q: What makes your firelighter range stand out in the market?

A: The ZIP firelighters range offers Irish consumers high performance, long burn time,

Calor launches Ireland’s first vending machine service for gas cylinders

The new Calor Gas2Go service provides for 24/7 reliable access to gas cylinders for customers which launched as a pilot project in October The Calor vending machines will be available at selected service stations to allow customers to refill a gas cylinder at their convenience – day or night – and includes Calor BioLPG, a renewable gas

Calor has recently unveiled Calor Gas2Go, Ireland’s first vending machine system which gives domestic customers a brandnew way to access Calor gas cylinders on demand. The new, innovative vending machines are stand-alone, solar-powered units and provide secure, self-service access to Calor cylinders, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

For almost 90 years, Calor has ensured that homes and businesses across Ireland –particularly rural communities in Ireland –have access to clean, reliable and lower carbon energy, regardless of location. The introduction of new vending machines for gas cylinder products modernises the way cylinders are supplied and reinforces the return-and-reuse sustainable model for Calor cylinders.

The first Calor Gas2Go vending machines have been installed at Kilcock, Co Kildare and Loughrea, Co Galway

The benefits of the new vending machines include:

• 24/7 access: collect or return cylinders at any time day or night

• Return and reuse: a greener and more sustainable alternative to disposable supply models, with BioLPG renewable gas blend available in the Patio Gas option

• Safety and security: purpose-built vending units for secure cylinder storage, helping make sure that customers can be sure of high-quality and reliable Calor gas

• Ease of use: a simple, automated system designed with household users in mind

• Commenting, Marc van Huet, chief financial officer, Calor, said: “Calor is really proud to lead the way in bringing this innovative, customer-focused service to the Irish market. We are partnering with key local outlets to bring Calor Gas2Go to service stations in Co Kildare and Co Galway With this new pilot launching

this October we hope to bring improved convenience to our customers.

“At Calor, we are always looking to continually offer our customers the best and most convenient service possible We saw a successful launch of this new vending machine service in France by our sister SHV Energy company, Primagaz, and we are pleased to now bring this new technology here to Ireland. We have listened to our customers and the new Calor Gas2Go service will make sure that access to our quality products is simple, convenient and more flexible With the touch of a button, Calor customers can now avail of quality Calor gas cylinder whenever they need them.”

Johnny Browne, owner of Browne’s Centra in Kilcock, Co Kildare, added: “We’re delighted to partner with Calor to be the first location in Ireland to offer this kind of service. We’re always looking for new ways to provide more convenient options for our local community and the new Calor Gas2Go vending machine is a great addition to our service offerings.” ■

Calor Gas2Go vending machine, Kilcock

ZIP Kiln Dried Kindling Bag

NoLo alcohol in high demand

Irish consumers are embracing no/low alcohol drinks for health and lifestyle reasons, with brands offering sophisticated, flavourful alternatives, ShelfLife reports

The no/low (NoLo) alcohol trend is firmly established in 2025, with Irish consumers embracing alcohol alternatives as part of a more balanced lifestyle Whether it’s for health, mindfulness, or simply a change of pace, demand continues to rise across all age groups. Brewers and drinks brands have responded with increasingly sophisticated options that rival their alcoholic counterparts in both flavour and experience.

Brewers and drinks brands have responded with a new generation of sophisticated options that rival their alcoholic counterparts in both flavour and overall experience. Products now feature complex taste profiles, innovative packaging, and premium positioning,

Research reveals moderation is becoming the ‘new normal’ in Irish society

‘Zebra Striping’ among many new trends uncovered Irish social life is evolving, and moderation is increasingly at the heart of that evolution.

Heineken Ireland today unveiled a new report, Always a Choice: How Socialising is Changing in Ireland, which highlights how attitudes and behaviours around alcohol in this country are shifting, and how the nation is embracing greater freedom of consumption choice.

The new research sheds light on moderation trends in Ireland today:

• Acceptance is rising: 80% of adults believe there is more cultural permission to say “I’m drinking less” compared to five years ago

• Moderation is mainstream: Over half (56%) paced themselves at recent social occasions, while nearly a third reported abstaining.

• The joy of moderation: 87% said some of their most enjoyable social moments happened while moderating or not drinking at all.

appealing to discerning consumers who seek choice without compromise Market research from International Wines and Spirits Record (IWSR) Drinks Market Analysis shows that the global no/low alcohol market grew by 7.5% in 2024, with Ireland seeing one of the fastest adoption rates in Europe Consumers cite health, lifestyle and social moderation as key drivers behind the shift.

• Normalisation: Nearly one in three (29%) say that it’s ‘just as good’ as socialising with alcohol - reinforcing how mainstream moderation is becoming.

It is clear now the category is no longer a niche segment; it has become mainstream, with bars, restaurants, and retailers expanding their offerings to meet evolving consumer expectations. Brands that innovate while maintaining taste integrity are best positioned to capture this growing market, ensuring that low - and no-alcohol options continue to thrive in Ireland and beyond.

• Stigma remains: 53% admitted drinking when they didn’t want to, while 31% find it difficult to moderate because they feel obliged to explain themselves.

New habits, new opportunities

The study also uncovers the creative ways people are reshaping drinking habits. From “zebra striping” (alternating alcoholic drinks with water or 0.0 options) to speaking up during pub rounds, Irish consumers are finding new ways to make moderation fit seamlessly into their social life. These habits are not just practical, they’re empowering. They help people navigate social pressure and reduce the stigma around choosing not to drink.

Women are more likely to moderate with 0.0 drinks or soft drinks, while men tend to abstain entirely Younger adults are leading the charge, with 41% of 18–27-year-olds now regularly choosing 0.0 drinks, up 21% year-onyear

Social occasions matter

Irish adults report that, on average, ‘first dates or romantic settings’ are the least difficult social occasions to moderate alcohol consumption. Big group nights out (39%), weddings and family celebrations (33%), and pub rounds (28%) are the occasions where people find it more of a challenge to moderate.

Since launching Heineken 0.0 in 2018, Heineken Ireland has invested more than €30 million in the alcohol-free category, now holding over 43% market share. Draught systems are available in more than 3,000 outlets nationwide Michelle Rowley, senior brand manager at Heineken Ireland, highlights that moderation in alcohol consumption is becoming more popular among Irish adults: “The new research shows that this trend is not just temporary, as more people are choosing to drink less and want to continue doing so in various social situations. Heineken Ireland sees potential for further growth in promoting a vibrant social life without compromise The company aims to build on its leadership in the 0.0 alcohol category and support new cultural norms around moderation, including breaking down the stigma that still surrounds it.”

As part of its research, Heineken Ireland gathered feedback and insights from a wide range of people, including Laura Willoughby MBE, co-founder at Club Soda (a social impact business that exists to help people drink more mindfully and live well) Ali Dunworth, author of A Compendium of Irish Pints: The Culture, Customs and Craic and Greg O’Shea, Irish olympian and sevens rugby star

“Patterns are definitely changing. People are being more deliberate in how they approach moderating their drinking. Zebra Striping is just one example that’s growing significantly in popularity People are getting really creative and smart about how they adopt new habits so that they always have a choice,” commented Willoughby.

“Irish rounds are a particular thing; a ritual intrinsically linked to our drinking and pub culture. There are unique rules, peculiarities and complexities. When it comes to moderation, people are becoming more confident in speaking up at the beginning of a round - making sure that people aren’t making presumptions for them,” said Dunworth

“For me, moderation is about balance. It lets me enjoy a night out, still get up for training the next morning, and not feel like I’m missing out on anything,” added O’Shea.

Santa Rita 120: Meeting seasonal demand in the NoLo alcohol segment

The NoLo category continues to gain momentum across global markets, driven by consumers seeking balance and moderation without compromising on taste or quality Within this growing segment, Santa Rita’s 120 brand stands out as an established and trusted choice, offering both 120 Zero Sauvignon Blanc and 120 Zero Cabernet Sauvignon, alongside its classic Pinot Grigio and Merlot.

The Santa Rita 120 Zero Sauvignon Blanc demonstrates how innovation in dealcoholisation can preserve varietal character Bright citrus and tropical fruit notes, along with a crisp finish, make it an excellent choice for consumers looking to moderate alcohol intake and it is particularly appealing as a festive aperitif Its red counterpart, the 120 Zero Cabernet Sauvignon, combines ripe berry fruit, gentle tannins, and smooth balance, delivering the depth and authenticity consumers expect from a Cabernet Sauvignon, without the alcohol. Together, these wines offer retailers and the on-trade a compelling opportunity to engage with the expanding NoLo audience.

As households prepare for the Christmas season, demand for inclusivity and variety at the table grows. NoLo wines enable hosts to cater for all tastes while allowing retailers to capture incremental sales during a key trading period.

Beyond the Zero % range, the wider 120 portfolio continues to perform strongly The 120 Pinot Grigio offers a versatile refreshing white suited to festive

gatherings, while the 120 Merlot provides a soft, fruit-forward red that pairs beautifully with traditional Christmas roasts.

With the NoLo category forecast to sustain double-digit growth, Santa Rita 120 combines brand heritage, quality, and innovation-positioning it as both an everyday favourite and a seasonal leader in the evolving No/Lo alcohol space.

Santa Rita 120 Zero Cabernet Sauvignon

Santa Rita 120 Pinot Grigio

(L-R) Laura Willoughby, co-founder at Club Soda, Ali Dunworth, author, Greg O’Shea, Irish sports & TV star

Cheershave NO RULES anymore

Our new 120 ZERO.4 line is here to be part of every special moment, bringing the same flavour with no restrictions. Discover the freedom to always celebrate

Own every moment — no pauses, no excuses, just full flavour.

Shaker & Co. ‘redefining’ the zero-alcohol experience

Shaker & Co is ‘redefining’ the zero-alcohol experience with a new range of premium G&T pre-mixes in sleek 250ml slim cans. Crafted by Ireland West Distillery, Shaker & Co make its gin “the old-school way,” using traditional steam distillation methods to capture the best of the botanicals. These include juniper, cardamom, coriander and citrus.

Shaker & Co creates its own tonic water

Kylie Minogue Wines zero alcohol, 100% ‘Magic’

Kylie Minogue continues to lead and innovate the wine industry with her and Sparkling Rosé, contributing to more than half of the entire growth of the Zero Alcohol Sparkling category in the UK alone Kylie Minogue Sparkling Blanc will hit the shelves later this year*.

from carefully sourced Mediterranean ingredients - with no artificial sweeteners or flavourings. At just 2.4% sugar and only 26 calories per can, it’s a crisp, refreshing choice for every social moment, in convenient 250ml slim cans.

The launch collection features four standout flavours: The Classic, Lemon, Blood Orange, and Berry Pink.

With the rapid growth of the no- and lowalcohol movement, Shaker & Co offers consumers exactly what they’ve been waiting for: great-tasting, stylish, and sophisticated alcohol-free G&Ts in a convenient 250ml RTD format, perfect for surging consumer demand.

Distributors: Barry & Fitzwilliam

All of the flavour, none of the alcohol

BrewDog is on a mission to prove that alcohol-free does not equate to taste free They’ve taken alcohol free to the next level. Without compromising on quality, they’ve dialled down the alcohol, not the flavour

In December 2022, Kylie Minogue Wines launched its first 0% alcohol Sparkling Rosé in The UK and Ireland, with flavours and acidic balance mirroring that found in wine Through a blend of Organic European grapes and green tea selected from the Liu-Mountains of Yunnan province in China, Kylie Minogue Wines’ 0% alcohol production process provides maximum development of wine attributes without generating any alcohol. The careful selection of ingredients is reflected in the extraction process of the tea, with one bud and two leaves individually hand-plucked at a time Brewed into a strong infusion and added to the grape ferment, the result is an additional mouthfeel and finish, rounded off with dried tannins to present a complex and finely balanced Sparkling Rosé, minus the alcohol.

Commenting, Kylie, said: “Wine is such a historic part of our gatherings and celebrations, romantic evenings and afterwork winddowns. I talk about this a lot with all my wines and is part of why I wanted to start this venture - the ‘experience’ of wine The importance of the moment, whether it is for yourself or sharing it with others, can still be cherished with a non-alcoholic wine Our 0% tastes like the wine you may be accustomed to but without the calories you would expect. The colour is gorgeous, the bubbles shimmer away in a champagne glass and it’s delicious. It still feels utterly celebratory.”

Kylie Minogue Wines’ Alcohol-Free Sparkling Rosé contains just 22 calories per 100ml which is around 80 less calories per glass than a standard glass of prosecco**, making it a delicious, lighter alternative. Distributed by Barry & Fitzwilliam.

‘Kylie 0% Alcohol Sparkling Blanc is an elegant non-alcoholic Sparkling with delicate notes of jasmine and a refined finish, offering a sophisticated and refreshing experience for any occasion.

Produced with premium European grapes and hand-picked green tea from the Liu-Da

These re-engineered beers deliver everything you’d expect from their range, quality, drinkability and a craft flair

While their one-off and seasonal brews come and go, their Headliners will dependably be on tap all year round, giving you everything from lager, pales, grapefruit infused IPAs and stouts whenever you need them most.

Introducing the Alcohol-Free Mixed Pack –the first of its kind has landed in the market. Including the alcohol-free version, of all

BrewDog alcohol-free beers range

Mountains of Yunnan. The innovative fermentation method reduces sugars by up to 30%, generates no alcohol yet delivers all the subtle flavours and characteristics of a traditionally fermented wine.’

*(Source: Nielsen EPOS Total Grocery Mults 52Wks to 18 May 2024)

** (Source: DrinkAware.co.uk 125ml glass of 12% ABV Prosecco contains around 108 calories).

Kylie Minogue holding a bottle of Kylie 0% Alcohol Sparkling Blanc

Kylie Minogue with her Alcohol-Free Sparkling Rosé

Shaker & Co. premium G&T pre-mixed The Classic, Lemon, Blood Orange, and Berry Pink flavours

BrewDog’s headliners - Punk AF, Hazy AF, Elvis AF and the first time we have seen it –Wingman AF Because a good wingman won’t let you have a hangover. All the altitude of our Maverick Session IPA Wingman, with none of the alcohol. Fly steady Land safely Make it to work tomorrow

No-alcohol just got Punked up And Punk AF lives up to its billing. All the attitude, all the flavour of Punk IPA but none of the alcohol. Say hello to the ‘Punkest’ alcohol free beer in town. Juicy tropical fruit mixes it up with grassy and pine notes. All sitting on a solid malt baseline Full flavour, no alcohol, all Punk. Punk AF – Punked up alcohol free beer

Hazy AF is a full tilt fruit machine All the attitude, all the flavour but none of the alcohol. Say hello to the juiciest alcohol-free beer in town. Tropical fruits and grassy notes mix it up Oats and wheat unite for a smoother ride Full flavour, no alcohol, all out New England. Hazy AF – is what Brewdog refers to as its ‘crushable crush’.

Elvis AF - it’s Elvis Juice, but the alcohol has left the building. It’s fruity it’s citrusy, its alcohol free! The King of AF beers is here to give you all the showmanship with none of the alcohol. Grapefruit, orange, pine and citrus hits the perfect notes while supported by a solid malt baseline Rock up to the bar and be able to roll out of bed the next day. Great beer that won’t leave you feeling all shook up

For when you want a good tasting beer but none of the booze No corners cut; no time saved. They’ve dialled down the alcohol, not the beer

Brewdog is proudly distributed by Barry & Fitzwilliam.

FLUÈRE unveils innovative non-alcoholic gins in Ireland

FLUÈRE, a pioneer in the non-alcoholic spirits industry, is thrilled to present FLUÈRE Original blend & FLUÈRE Raspberry Designed to meet the surging demand for premium nonalcoholic options, FLUÈRE Original blend & FLUÈRE Raspberry is a nod to the timeless appeal of classic cocktails, offering a rich tapestry of flavours derived from a handpicked assortment of botanicals and natural essences. Its exceptional quality has been recognized with the prestigious Luxury Awards and Spirits Business Low & No Masters.

FLUÈRE Original blend & FLUÈRE Raspberry provide an excellent base for sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktails, like a non-alcoholic Basil Smash, Gimlet, Dry Martini, Raspberry Collins or the well-known easy to make Gin & Tonic. Just add 50 ml FLUÈRE Original or Raspberry in a glass filled with ice. Top with

100 ml tonic water. Garnish with a sprig of Rosemary and enjoy.

FLUÈRE Original blend and Raspberry are now available in Ireland.

About FLUÈRE

FLUÈRE is a leading non-alcoholic spirit brand made with the same complex distilling techniques used for spirits and high-end perfume houses. Fluère’s range comprises five products, each in a stunning bottle design: Original, Spiced Cane, Raspberry, Smoked Agave and the Bitter apéritif Available in over 20 countries, including Europe and the US. The no- and lower-alcohol market is a rapidly

A true trailblazer

Delivering an unrivalled taste with zero alcohol, McGuigan Wines ‘pledges to make great quality wine accessible to everyone around the world for every occasion’. The company has subsequently been named IWSC International Winemaker of the Year a record breaking four times and its commitment to alcohol-free wines is no different.

McGuigan Zero is a trailblazer in its category The range offers an unparalleled alcohol-free experience both on the nose and palate, launching with Shiraz, Chardonnay, Rosé and Sauvignon Blanc. It is created using state-of-the-art spinning cone technology By drawing the wine into super fine layers for efficient vaporisation, alcohol may be removed at lower temperatures than ever before, thus resulting in a truly beautiful tasting product. The fruit has been sourced and selected specially for McGuigan Zero from premium vineyards in Southeastern Australia.

The quality of the fruit and its adaptability to the alcohol removal process ensures that customers are drinking the best possible alcohol-free wines.

McGuigan Wines, Ireland’s ‘number one’ Australian wine brand, is distributed by Barry & Fitzwilliam.

growing category: health consciousness and mindful drinking continue to be on the rise Using Fluère as an accelerator, it is our vision to create one integrated cocktail menu in the bar scene that offers a wide range of options to consumers when it comes to alcohol intake. Consumers should be able to choose a cocktail at its original strength, but also a lower- or no-alcohol variant, depending on their desire and the occasion.

FLUÈRE is Proudly distributed by Barry & Fitzwilliam.

BrewDog Alcohol-Free Mixed Pack

FLUÈRE Original blend

FLUÈRE Raspberry

McGuigan Zero range selection

Fierce Mild Wins ‘The Pitch 2025’ - one of Ireland’s

‘most

high-profile’ entrepreneurial competitions

Fierce Mild, Ireland’s first pure-play nonalcoholic brewery, has been named the winner of ‘The Pitch 2025’, one of Ireland’s most high-profile entrepreneurial competitions, run by IMAGE Media in partnership with Samsung. The prize package, valued at €150,000, includes media, mentoring and technology support to accelerate the growth of Ireland’s most ambitious startups. This national recognition caps a breakthrough year for Fierce Mild, also winning the inaugural Love Irish Food & Sky Media ‘Taste of TV’ Fund in 2025, earning a €50,000 national TV campaign, as well as securing a place with Food Works 2025 (accelerator program by Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc for high potential, globally scalable food and drink start-ups), winning the only gold medal in the low/no alcohol category at the 2025 Irish Quality Food and Drink awards and named a finalist in the Blas na hÉireann Food & Drink Awards (results announced October 2025).

“Winning ‘The Pitch’ is a huge moment for us,” said Fergal Carroll of Fierce Mild. “For too long, non-alcoholic beer has meant settling for less. Fierce Mild proves you don’t have to Recognition like this, alongside Taste of TV and our participation in Food Works, shows that Ireland is ready for an independent, flavour-first alternative in a category dominated by global giants.” Fierce Mild has grown rapidly since launching its flagship extra pale ale Fierce Mild Non-Alco in 2024

The brand has sold more than 200,000 bottles and is available in 250+ venues nationwide Unlike most multinational competitors, who brew regular beer and then strip out the alcohol (taking flavour with it), Fierce Mild is brewed differently from the start. Using a specialised yeast that naturally limits fermentation, the brewery produces non-alcoholic beer that retains full flavour and character - with no compromise

The wider non-alcoholic beer market is also on the rise According to the latest Drinks Ireland / IBEC Beer Market Report, sales of

NoLo: A very impulsive purchase

non-alcoholic beer in Ireland grew 25% in 2024, making it one of the fastestgrowing segments in drinks.

With support from The Pitch - including a tailored suite of Samsung technology, a bespoke media and marketing campaign with IMAGE Media, and invaluable mentorship from leading entrepreneurs

Bobby Kerr and Áine Kerr - Fierce Mild plans give people of Ireland more choice when it comes to non-alcoholic beer

About Fierce

Mild

Founded in 2022 by childhood friends and brothers-in-law Fergal Carroll and Cathal Byrne, Fierce Mild is Ireland’s first pureplay non-alcoholic brewery Using premium, locally sourced, natural ingredients and a unique brewing process that preserves full flavour Fierce Mild is redefining what non-alcoholic beer can be ‘Proudly independent, proudly Irish’, and uncompromising on taste

Website: www.fiercemild.com

Instagram: @_fiercemild ■

We measured No and Low (NoLo) Alcohol in our annual study for the first time in 2025 and it has thrown up some interesting shopper behaviours. The infographic below looks at all NoLo categories combined (we can report them individually) and we can see that it is very unplanned/impulsive, so having it outside the off licence is key It is important to have at least some of the range ‘chilled’ as it is the #13 ranked category for being purchased for Immediate Usage And we need to play up new flavours/brands/range and make the fixture enjoyable to shop’.

Colm Rooney, managing director, Shopper Intelligence Ireland

Staples for uncertain times

With shoppers actively seeking pantry essentials - from canned goods to non-perishables - now is the time for retailers to stock up. ShelfLife reports

Few could have imagined that governments around the world would one day urge citizens to stock up on essentials - yet during the COVID-19 pandemic, that became our reality

Retailers witnessed this shift firsthand. During and after lockdowns, demand for household paper, over the counter medication and long-shelf-life food staples surged as consumers prioritised convenience, reliability, and preparedness. This change in behaviour presents a unique opportunity for brands.

With rising global tensions and growing fears of war, consumers are becoming more focused on preparedness and self-sufficiency. In times like these, household staples with long shelf lives become more than convenience - they become essentials.

With shoppers actively seeking pantry essentials - from canned goods to non-perishables - now is the time for retailers to position these products as must-haves for busy households and forward planners. Brands that step up to meet this need can drive sales, increase in-store visibility, and build long-term trust with loyal consumers.

Biona sees soaring demand for organic essentials

Carmen Ferguson, brand manager at Windmill Organics: “At Biona, we are the number one organic food supplier to leading UK retailers, and one of the most innovative brands in grocery We have a huge portfolio of over 450 products, many of which are considered pantry essentials. The most popular would be our organic canned beans and pulses, our coconut oils and coconut milk, our rye breads,

our tomato range (whether it be passatas, purees or tins of chopped tomatoes), along with our organic olive oils. All Biona’s products are naturally grown on organic farms without the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides. They are better for you and the planetuniquely positioned to address growing demand for health and sustainability

“In these challenging financial times, traditional store cupboard essentials like canned foods have become even more appealing to consumers as they are cost efficient, have longer shelf lives and limit wastage This is further evidenced by the fact that sales of our canned beans and pulses were up 45.7% in 2024 compared to the previous year We attribute this not only to their accessible price point but also to the movement towards plant-based foods that has shifted from ultra processed meat alternatives to more natural options.

“Finally, it’s increasingly recognised by consumers in Ireland that canned food is not limiting and actually provides a variety of exciting flavour options, such as our Black Bean Chilli, our Baked Beans or our Green Curry Coconut Milk, which is the perfect ingredient for Thai curries. Biona’s organic canned range is not only convenient but is also naturally preserved using heat, with no added artificials preservatives and comes with great sustainable benefits too, as it’s one of the most frequently recycled packaging and is BPA free, which is something more and more consumers are looking for.”

Don Carlos launches new Triple Action Extra Virgin Olive Oil Spray

Don Carlos has recently unveiled its brandnew Extra Virgin Olive Oil Triple Action Spray, which is about to become the ultimate multiuse kitchen essential.

The new bottle is designed to be multifunctional and versatile as it lets you spray, drizzle, or pour with ease, making it ideal for everything from drizzling on salads to spraying your airfryer meat or vegetables [RF1] or pouring on your pan for frying. Whether you’re hosting, or preparing quick everyday meals for lunch or dinner, this brandnew bottle suits every meal, no matter what you have on the menu.

The Extra Virgin Olive Oil uses the finest quality olives hailing from Andalucía in Spain,

Biona Organic range

Biona Organic Chopped Peeled Tomatoes 4x400g

>> with every bottle filled with the best of the country’s finest harvest. For over thirty years, Don Carlos has partnered with the same family-run farm, making sure that each product in the range captures the authentic taste and spirit of Andalucía, where the olive oil is grown, pressed, and bottled, embodying centuries of expertise and passion.

The new spray bottle is the latest addition to the Don Carlos range, which includes a ‘delicious’ selection of premium quality Spanish olives, capers, wine vinegars and sea salts.

Don Carlos Extra Virgin Olive Oil Spray is propellant-free, made with 100% pure olive oil and contains no artificial colours, flavours, or additives. It is also suitable for the airfryer ensuring an even spray on all your favourite foods.

The Don Carlos Extra Virgin Olive Oil Triple Action Spray is available in retailers nationwide in 200ml bottles, RRP €4.95.

Bens Streetfood Noodle range: Ireland’s new pantry essential

Irish households are embracing a new era of convenience and global flavour with the launch of the Bens Streetfood Noodle Range As pantry essentials become increasingly vital in busy homes, these noodles offer the perfect blend of taste, versatility, and long shelf life— making them a must-have for modern kitchens across Ireland.

The Bens Streetfood Noodle Range brings authentic streetfood-inspired flavours right to your pantry, allowing families and individuals to enjoy quick, satisfying meals without sacrificing quality Whether it’s a speedy lunch, a comforting dinner, or a creative snack, these noodles are ready in minutes, catering to the fast-paced demands of today’s lifestyles.

With the ongoing shift toward reliable, easyto-store staples, Bens Streetfood noodles stand out as a smart choice for those who value preparedness and culinary adventure. Its convenient packaging and extended shelf life ensure that delicious options are always on hand, supporting both everyday routines and spontaneous cravings.

By positioning the Bens Streetfood Noodle Range as a pantry essential, retailers and brands can meet the ‘evolving needs’ of Irish consumers, driving both sales and brand loyalty Discover the new standard in pantry convenience - where global taste meets everyday practicality

Fused by Fiona: The Asian pantry range customers are seeking

Transform everyday meals with Fused by Fiona, the premium range of sauces, spice mixes, and ingredients inspired by Fiona

Uyema’s time living in Japan and travelling across Asia. Born from a passion for simple, healthy cooking, Fused products are crafted with high-quality, natural ingredients - free from artificial additives, preservatives, and zero refined sugars - delivering flavour and integrity in every bite.

From quick stir-fry sauces to essential spice mixes and marinades, Fused is the best choice for Asian cuisine offering delicious, nourishing products that everyone can cook and enjoy effortlessly Customers are now actively seeking Fused in stores, making it a range that’s sure to drive sales and increase basket spend.

Trusted by home cooks, Fused by Fiona combines convenience with quality Its honest and creative approach continues to strengthen its reputation as a leader in the “better-foryou” pantry category

Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or elevating everyday cooking, Fused by Fiona brings bold, balanced flavour to every dishproving that great taste begins with great ingredients.

Your ’Favourit’’ meals fast

Back-to-school means alarm clocks ringing earlier uniforms laid out, homework battles and that daily dilemma: “What’s for dinner?”

Northern Ireland’s oldest herbs and spices provider, Favourit, which celebrates its 110th anniversary this year, is on a mission to make mealtimes stress-free and full of flavour

“With tighter schedules and busy routinesfrom parents on the school run to students starting university and teachers balancing lesson plans - cooking can quickly become overwhelming,” explained Laimis Minelga from Favourit. “We all start the week with the best intentions of a home cooked meal, but sometimes life gets in the way Favourit can be your secret helper in the kitchen, transforming everyday ingredients into nourishing meals in minutes.”

From speedy breakfasts before the school run, to hearty dinners after a long day, Favourit’s herbs, spices, and air fryer seasonings add instant flavour and variety to any dish.

Olivia Gough, mum of two, former primary school teacher and content creator behind Liv Plus Two (https://www.instagram.com/ livplustwo), knows just how hectic September can be

Olivia said: “As a former teacher, I saw every September how families struggled to juggle school routines and mealtimes. Now, as a mum with a child going into P2 and another starting playgroup I feel it myself I also have ADHD so I really need meals that are quick, simple, and tasty - or the overwhelm creeps in. That’s where Favourit is a game-changer Its herbs and spices lift even the plainest ingredients so

my kids clear their plates, and I can get dinner done without the stress It’s a win for all of us.”

Trusted for more than a century by home cooks and professional chefs alike, Favourit’s range includes family favourites like Italian Herbs, Crushed Chillies, and air fryer essentials such as Salt & Chilli, Chip, and Chicken seasoning. Available across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, the collection has been designed to help families eat well without the fuss.

Laimis, concluded: “Back-to-school doesn’t have to mean back to stress With Favourit, you can keep mealtimes simple, delicious, and full of togetherness.”

Visit www.favouritfood.com for food inspiration and recipes, and follow them at www.instagram.com/favouritfoods/, www facebook.com/favouritfoods/ and www.tiktok.com/@favouritfood.

Chef sauces remain an Irish classic

Chef has been an Irish favourite since 1921, proudly produced in Cabra, Dublin.

From zingy Tomato Ketchup for burgers, smooth Brown Sauce which makes char-grilled sausages taste great, tangy Barbecue Sauce with Chicken and Beef and Salad Cream which is the ‘perfect’ salad accompaniment at 60% less fat than standard mayonnaise (leaving more room for dessert). Not forgetting pickled onions, vinegar and the Irish salad must-have, Chef Beetroot.

Irish consumers ‘love’ Chef because of the distinctive taste, one which they have grown up with and which is easily recognisable Taste is the key differentiator that Chef has versus the competition.

Boyne Valley launches new Hot Honey

Boyne Valley Honey, an Irish favourite honey brand for generations, is turning up the heat with its latest launch – Boyne Valley Hot Honey. Delivering a balance of sweet and spicy, this new product is perfect for drizzling, dipping and marinating.

Housed in a convenient squeezy bottle, Boyne Valley Hot Honey can be a new go-to condiment for adding a fiery kick to your favourite foods. Try it on pizza, chicken wings, and cheese boards, or stir it into marinades and even drizzle it over ice cream for a ‘delicious’ sweet-heat combo

Whether you’re a spice lover or simply looking to elevate your everyday meals, Boyne Valley Hot Honey is the perfect finishing touch – ideal for BBQs, summer snacks, and experimental chefs alike.

Available now in major retailers nationwide, this is one fiery flavour not to miss. ■

Fused by Fiona Uyema range

Favourit range

Don Carlos Extra Virgin Olive Oil Spray

Biona Customer, UK

Souperfood

Soup has evolved from humble broths to a versatile, health-conscious meal option. Ryan Brennan reports on the latest trends shaping the soup market

Soups have undergone significant transformations over time, adapting to changes in culture, technology, and taste Early versions, dating back to ancient civilisations, were simple broths made from boiled meats and vegetables. As time passed, soups became more complex, including ingredients and seasonings from around the world. The introduction of new cooking techniques, such as pureeing and thickening like flour or cream, allowed for greater variety and richness. Today, soups range from stews to delicate bowls, reflecting both traditional flavours and modern innovations, and are often tailored to dietary needs and preferences. The evolution of soup reflects both societal changes and an appreciation for the comfort and versatility that a bowl of soup can provide

In 2025, the global soup market is projected to reach $25.96 billion (€22.2 billion) by 2033, up from $19.48 billion (€16.6 billion) in 2024, with an annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.24% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is driven by increasing consumer demand for convenient, nutritious, and on-the-go meal options, with soups being a popular choice.

Cully & Sully continues to deliver a strong performance

As Ireland’s No 1 soup brand, Cully & Sully continues to deliver strong category performance by combining convenience, quality, and authenticity Values that resonate deeply with today’s shoppers.

lunch or meal or as the perfect base for soups and sauces.

to brands products option retailers

As shoppers continue to prioritise trusted ands and real ingredients, Cully & Sully oducts remain a must-stock option for tailers looking to drive repeat purchase and build basket value

range that combines the comfort of a warming bowl of soup with the added benefit of 16g18g of protein per pot.

It’s core soup range remains a firm favourite, offering reliable year-round sales, but retailers are also seeing increased demand for its Rocking Risottos, a gluten-free range designed to bring wholesome, restaurant quality meals to the table in minutes. Made with premium Arborio rice and natural ingredients, they provide shoppers with a quick and satisfying solution that aligns perfectly with current trends toward betterfor-you, gluten-free, and cleaner-label foods.

Cully & Sully has also seen strong growth across its natural broths range, which cater to consumers seeking more natural and filling products. Slowly simmered for depth of flavour, these broths serve as a nourishing

From its comforting soups to our convenient risottos and versatile broths, Cully & Sully is oud’ to offer a range that keeps shelves relevant and shoppers coming back for more.

From its to our convenient and versatile broths, Cully Sully ‘proud’ to coming

At Cully & Sully, it believes simple ingredients don’t just make great food, they make sense for its consumers and business.

Avonmore boosts winter sales with protein soups

As the clocks go back and the evenings draw in, soup season takes centre stage in Irish households. For retailers it’s the ideal time to spotlight Avonmore’s High Protein Soups, a

Available in Chicken Masala, Chicken & Veg and a Vegan Red Lentil Dahl the range delivers on both taste and functionalityexactly what today’s health-conscious consumers are seeking as they move into the winter months. As the popularity of highprotein rich foods continues to rise, Avonmore’s soups stand out in the chilled aisle They appeal not only to those focused on fitness but also families or individuals looking for a wholesome, filling option during the colder months.

Positioned to capture both the traditional seasonal uplift in soup sales and the ongoing demand for protein-rich foods, Avonmore’s High Protein Soup range offer retailers a timely opportunity to drive footfall and basket spend this Autumn and Winter

Avonmore High Protein Soups

Cully & Sully Chicken & Vegetable Soup

fiid redefines ready meals with purpose

At fiid, it believes convenience should never come at the cost of nourishment. Since launching in 2018, it has been on a mission to reinvent ready meals - moving away from the bland, ultra-processed options that have dominated shelves for decades. Instead, its ambient bowls are made with real vegetables, legumes, herbs, and spices - designed to be heated in 90 seconds and enjoyed anywhere.

Julia Kessler fiid’s newly appointed CEO explains: “fiid was founded on the idea that fast food can be good food. We want to give people that moment of comfort in the middle of a busy day - a meal that’s delicious, filling, and nourishing, without compromise.”

and Sundried Tomato & Lentil Ragu, fiid has grown from kitchen-table beginnings to a presence across international markets. In Ireland and the UK, the bowls are popular with health-conscious consumers seeking cost-effective, plant-rich options that still feel like comfort food.

2025 marks an exciting chapter for fiid, with a refreshed look, re-certified B Corp status, and a continued commitment to creating meals that are both convenient and good for you.

Find fiid in Dunnes Stores, SuperValu, Spar Centra, Ocado, Booths and many more retailers across Ireland and the UK.

With bestsellers like Smoky Black Bean Chilli

& withA

For sales enquiries, contact: aloha@eatfiid.com or +353 83 020 1665 www.eatfiid.com | @eatfiid

John Casey, CEO Galmere Fresh Foods, Q&A on SOOP Mug

Q: SOOP Mug’s packaging is clearly a standout feature - how important was sustainability in the design process, and do you see potential for expanding this packaging innovation to other product categories in future?

A: Sustainability was the key consideration in the development of the SOOP Mug design. We selected recycled plastic, optimising its use in the production (achieving 65%) to reduce the amount of virgin plastic in the mug. The use of plastic is integral to providing shelf-stable, safe food products. The challenge for the food industry is to ensure that it’s made of recycled materials where possible and help to ensure that the packaging is recyclable after use Having achieved the high recycled content with SOOP, it certainly gives us a platform to test and promote the recycled and recyclable principles in other parts of our product range

Q: You’ve successfully soft launched in select Irish cafés and Maxol forecourts—what has been the most valuable feedback from consumers and retailers so far, and how is that shaping your national and UK rollout strategy?

A: We were able to track the customer journey in real time during the trial and learned a lot about the most effective way of communicating our new concept to consumers. By developing a POS video to play on the screens in select Maxol forecourts, we showcased SOOP and how to open and heat their Mug. Additionally, we were able to adapt other POS materials as the trial progressed. We also discovered a new avenue for sales, as customers wanted to take chilled SOOP away with them to heat and eat at home or the office. While at the beginning our main communication strategy involved the innovation of the Mug itself, upon talking with retailers and consumers who tried the product, it is the fantastic taste of the flavours that are frequently highlighted. Social media is a great platform for adapting and refining our messages. These are all elements that have refined our rollout strategy, which is adaptable across other markets in combination with market research.

Q: Can you tell me about the process behind creating your healthy, on-the-go meals and snacks, particularly the creative flavours like the ‘Plant-Based Indonesian Style Chickpea’?

A: Market research and industry knowledge provided the insights which led to the selection and development of our first four flavours. We developed great versions of firm favourites including Proper Roast Chicken and Tomato and

Basil Pesto but have seen consumer demand increase for both vegetarian and plant-based options. The vegan Indonesian Style Chickpea is a great example of the globally inspired flavours that we have seen consumers respond very well to in other areas of our business. We are continuously researching trends and sales patterns across the market to help to guide us towards recipes which will excite consumers and fulfil their demand for flavours from across the culinary landscape

Q: With consumer demand growing for both health-conscious and convenient food options, how do you plan to keep SOOP ahead of evolving trends—are there new flavours, formats, or functional benefits in development?

A: First and foremost, SOOP is made from a range of natural ingredients - no additives, no preservatives and no thickeners. Natural, healthy ingredients are the foundation for healthy food. We then cook the ingredients gently to lock in flavour and goodness. Each recipe contains at least one of your five a day and contains between 160 and 205 calories allowing consumers to manage their consumption while still having a delicious fresh soup SOOP specifically addresses the difficulty of having healthy food on-the-go, a key area for growth as consumers look to find healthier food choices. Eating well on the move is a real challenge that we all face in our busy lives. We plan to evolve the range to reflect consumer preferences, with other flavours having already been developed. ■

SOOP range

John Casey, CEO, Galmere Fresh Foods

fiid Hearty Chickpea Tagine Bowl

Homegrown talent

Donna Ahern looks at some of the most exciting and innovative Irish brands currently making waves on retail shelves

In 2025, Irish produce continues to enjoy strong support from both consumers and retailers, as the demand for locally sourced, sustainable food reaches an all-time high. From family-run farms to small-batch artisans, Ireland’s food landscape is rich with quality, traceability, and flavour Consumers are increasingly aware of where their food comes from, choosing Irish-grown fruit and vegetables, locally reared meat, and handmade pantry staples over imported alternatives.

This shift reflects not only a growing appreciation for freshness and sustainability but also a desire to support the national economy and rural communities. Seasonal eating has made a strong comeback, encouraging people to reconnect with traditional food cycles and celebrate the natural rhythm of Irish agriculture.

Irish consumers are increasingly loyal to household Irish brand staples, choosing trusted local names that reflect quality and familiarity There’s a quiet confidence in products that have stood the test of time in Irish homes. As awareness of local sourcing grows, these everyday brands continue to earn their place in kitchens across the country

Donegal Catch launches new fish range

Donegal Catch is the number one frozen fish brand and has been a family favourite in Irish Households for almost 40 years. The mission at Donegal Catch is to help everyone eat more fish and it believes it is one of nature’s most versatile foods. Naturally high in protein and easy to prepare,

Irish food and drink exports

The value of Ireland’s food, drink and horticulture exports increased by 5% last year to a record €17 billion, according to Bord Bia’s Export Performance and Prospects Report for 2024/25.

This performance marks a milestone year for Irish food and drink exporters, despite enduring global trade challenges caused by geo-political instability, fluctuating inflation and on-going high trading costs.

making it a favourite for all to enjoy.

It knows that shoppers are looking for tasty, nutritious meal ideas and it is really excited about the recent launch of its new Donegal Catch fish goujons range and Asian salmon fillets.

The fish goujons are made with 100% handcut fish fillets and high in protein, they are a perfect alternative to chicken or meat. Simply choose your favourite flavour - Crunchy Breaded or Chip Shop Battered, and make the most delicious wrap, taco, add to a salad or a home-made spice box for that fake-away experience. The options are endless, these are perfect to share, quick to prepare and perfect for the air-fryer

The Asian salmon is 100% natural, marinated with delicious Asian spices. Ideal to pair with your favorite stir fry mix, flake into your Asian noodle salad to take to work or add to your Ramen.

All these new products were developed with busy professionals, couples and families in mind and are sure to help with different meal occasions.

Made in Ireland using responsibly sourced fish and the packaging is fully recyclable

Quality and trust

Now more than ever, it’s time for retailers to champion Irish produce and give homegrown brands the shelf space they deserve. By stocking more Irish products, retailers not only meet the growing consumer demand for local and sustainable options but also play a vital role in supporting jobs, communities, and the wider Irish economy. Investing in Irish brands means investing in quality, trust, and a food culture that continues to thrive.

Bulmers launches nationwide campaign to celebrate landmark 90 years

Bulmers is celebrating 90 years of cidermaking in Clonmel with a nationwide anniversary campaign that honours its heritage, people, and continuing innovation. The campaign spans OOH, digital, social, and >>

Bulmers and O’Neills limited edition 90th anniversary jersey

The fish goujons are made with 100% handcut fish fillets and high in protein

>> PR activity, reinforcing Bulmers’ position as Ireland’s number one cider brand and a category leader for nine decades.

As part of the celebrations, Bulmers has partnered with O’Neills to launch a limitededition 90th anniversary jersey. The retroinspired collaboration utilises the William Magner Signature - heroing the entrepreneurial visionary who founded the brand 90 years ago as well as the original VATs from Bulmers’ first location, Dowds Lane The jersey brings together two iconic Irish brands and is available online at oneills.com.

Alison Perry, marketing manager at O’Neill’s, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Bulmers as they celebrate their 90th anniversary with the launch of this special collaboration jersey. Bringing together two proud Irish brands, this jersey combines our shared heritage with a classic, retro-inspired design. It has been fantastic working alongside the Bulmers team to bring this design to life. The jersey will be available online at oneills.com. We look forward to seeing it worn by fans across the country

“The campaign will also be brought to life through creative partnerships with leading Irish talent, including a creative team of Paddy Kirk, John Brow and James O’Connor Working with long-standing Irish icons and new creative voices, Bulmers is reflecting its heritage while staying connected to modern culture - showing how a brand that has been successful for 90 years remains just as relevant today.

“Founded in 1935, Bulmers has grown from a small cidery in Clonmel to a brand with international reach. Its success reflects a balance of heritage and innovation: rooted in orchards and craft, yet evolving to meet consumers’ changing tastes, most recently through the relaunch of Bulmers 0.0, a standout success in the growing no/low alcohol category

“At the heart of the anniversary are the people who have pressed on through generations. Declan Ryan, regional sales manager, represents a three-generation Bulmers family: his grandfather helped plant the original orchards, his father worked as a maintenance fitter at Dowds Lane, and his brother now works at the Clonmel site. Declan said:

“My family’s connection to Bulmers spans more than 70 years, from planting the first apple trees to maintaining the facilities and now to my own role in sales. Few brands can say they have that depth of history What makes Bulmers special is that it has always stayed true to its roots while evolving to meet new generations. That balance is why it continues to thrive after 90 years.”

Commenting, Siobhán Casey, senior brand manager, Bulmers, said: “Bulmers created the cider category in Ireland and remains the standard-bearer today. Our heritage runs deep, but our success comes from innovating to meet consumers’ needs. From our original cider to Bulmers 0.0, we’ve shown that evolution and authenticity can go hand in hand. Partnering with O’Neills and working with some of Ireland’s most exciting creative talent is a fitting way to mark the occasion, celebrating the best of Irish craft and culture. Looking ahead, Bulmers will continue to invest in innovation and sustainability, ensuring the next 90 years are as impactful as the first.”

Hale Vaping e-liquids still No. 1

The vaping market in Ireland is facing many changes, but one thing remains constant –the dominance of Hale Vaping. Hale is more than just a distributor It is a ‘proud manufacturer with deep roots in Ireland’s vaping industry’.

As an Irish-owned business, it produces its own premium e-liquid range at its stateof-the-art facility in Carlow. With over a decade of experience, it has built its reputation on delivering trusted, highperformance products that meet the highest standards, it gives the company complete control over quality, consistency, and compliance while allowing it to support local industry and employment.

All of Hale eliquids use three base ingredients: Monopropylene Glycol, Vegetable Glycerine and Pharmaceutical grade Nicotine, all of which carry full CoA (Certification of Analysis) and QA (Quality Assured) certification and are only sourced from certified and approved European suppliers. Every Hale e-liquid is produced to

from the same timeless recipe since 1935, Bulmers is made from a variety of Irish apples and a dedication to nature’s four seasons. Crisp and refreshing, Bulmers has grown from local orchards to become a household name synonymous with good times, shared moments, and raising a glass to life’s wins big and small. Visit bulmers.ie to learn more about the brand’s 90th celebrations.

O’Donnells award-winning crisps

O’Donnells crisps have had another awardwinning year in 2025 with recent wins at the Blas na hÉireann, Irish Food Awards 2025.

O’Donnells Mature Cheese & Red Onion flavour secured a Silver award while O’Donnells Crinkle Cut Ballymaloe Relish and Cheese flavour achieved Bronze. This follows O’Donnells’ recent success at the Great Taste Awards 2025, where the brand secured seven accolades – including two coveted two-star honours – making it the most awarded Great Taste crisp brand across Ireland and the UK this year

the highest standard to meet the expectations of Irish consumers and retailers alike.

The e-liquids market is 11.6% of the vaping market with over 54% of that volume by Hale e-liquids. With tax of 50 cent per ml on vaping liquids confirmed for 1 November 1 now is the time to stock up on your customers number one choice for eLiquids.

Speak to your Hape representative today.

Backed by a farming tradition spanning seven generations and more than 300 years, the O’Donnell family has truly perfected the art of potato cultivation to bring you exceptional tasting crisps.

Now celebrating 15 years in business, O’Donnells Crisps were the original hand cooked crisps in Ireland using local food producers for great flavours. First launching in 2010 with just two flavours, Mature Cheese & Red Onion and Irish Cider Vinegar & Sea Salt, the range has now grown to include a broad selection of winning flavours.

Building on this success, O’Donnells has recently launched its latest flavour sensation: O’Donnells Hot Honey Fusion.

O’Donnells Hot Honey Fusion taps into the growing popularity of the hot honey flavour trend, expertly blending fiery spice with smooth, natural honey sweetness. Each crisp offers a bold, tantalising kick followed by a rich, mellow finish of the honey, creating a truly memorable flavour experience. Designed for sharing, this snack brings friends and family together with every satisfying, crunchy bite.

Alongside the launch of the highly anticipated Hot Honey Fusion flavour, O’Donnells are proud to spotlight the inspiration behind this bold new addition, a Tipperary neighbour and Michelin star-trained chef Declan Malone of Rívesci. Taking cues from the rich, spicy-sweet profile of Dec’s Hot Honey from Rívesci, Hot Honey Fusion offers a unique snacking experience that pays homage to Irish innovation and flavour As fellow members of the Tipperary Food Producers Network, O’Donnells and Rívesci celebrate the spirit of Irish craftsmanship, supporting local producers and delivering high-quality, culinary creations to customers across the country

Lovingly crafted in Clonmel, Co Tipperary,

“We’re incredibly excited to launch this bold new Hot Honey Fusion flavour, which brings something truly different to our crisp range,” said Ed and Kate O’Donnell. “Partnering with Declan and Shannon from Rívesci, being fellow

Hale Vaping Tobacco, Menthol and Strawberry flavours

O’Donnells Hot Honey Fusion and Rívesci Dec’s Hot Honey

Delicious flavours modelled on the extraordinarily popular Elf Bar range, redesigned for open systems. Produced in world-class e-Liquid production facilities ensuring consistency and quality throughout all batches.

A range of 24 exciting flavours across 3 nicotine strengths to cater for all customer preferences and requirements.

A more cost-effective, less environmentally impactful alternative to disposables, without compromises.

>>

members of the Tipperary Food Producers Network makes it even more special. As a family-run business rooted in Irish soil, it’s important to us that we champion local producers who share our passion for quality and craft, and we can’t wait for people to try it.”

O’Donnell’s crisps remain proudly glutenfree and vegetarian-friendly, made without artificial colours, flavours, MSG, or GM ingredients.

The Hot Honey Fusion flavour is available nationwide in 44g and 125g sharing bags.

Tayto: Ireland’s No. 1 Crisps and Snacks brand

As we enter the final stretch of 2025, Tayto, Ireland’s No 1 crisps and snacks brand shows no signs of slowing down. This year has been packed with exciting moments across the brand, delighting Tayto fans nationwide

Rívesci, keeps front of mind

One of the standout highlights was the launch of the new Tayto Cornados TV ad, featuring Mr Tayto heroically rescuing a first date gone wrong in a way only he can!

Alongside this, savoury snack lovers have had plenty to smile about with the arrival of several new products, including Jonnie Onion Rings multipacks, Cornados Spicy, and most recently, Cornados Nacho Cheese and Spicy in a convenient single-serve format.

Now, as the Christmas season approaches, it’s time for the much-loved Tayto Christmas ad to return to our screens. To support the return of this iconic Christmas advert, Ireland’s most emotionally connected brand** will be bringing festive cheer to stores across the country with a vibrant range of seasonal point-of-sale materials, adding theatre and excitement to the in-store experience for shoppers.

Tayto and in particular the Tayto Christmas box is a must-have this Christmas - the true taste of home for those returning from abroad, and for everyone else the perfect crunchy companion for every festive occasion.

After all, it wouldn’t be Christmas without Tayto.

*Based in part on data reported by NIQ through NielsenIQ Database for Crisps & Snacks for 52 week period ending 7th September 2025, for Ireland Multiples and Retail Channels. Copyright © 2025

**Red C brand reaction Index 2025

Hunky Dorys; big flavours, bigger bags!

You know what they say: “Go Hunky Dorys or go home!” And Hunky Dorys is doing exactly that. Known for its big, bold flavours and big eat crisps, the brand is going all in with the recent launch of extra-large sharing packs, bursting onto shelves at just €3 RRP These 200g bags of flavour-packed, crinkle-cut crisps will be available in the brand’s top four best-selling flavours and are guaranteed to

Global trends, sustainability and addictive flavours are three elements that Declan Malone, head chef and co-founder of Rívesci, keeps front of mind. Cashew Chilli Crush, recently awarded Gold at Blas na hÉireann 2025 and three Stars at Great Taste Awards in 2020 is a product that has also produced Smoked Chilli Oil Supreme Champion at Blas na hEireann 2024 and their most recent launch Dec’s Hot Honeya product which inspired O’Donnells Crisps to collaborate with Rívesci and launch their most recent flavour Hot Honey Fusion. In the early days of producing Cashew Chilli Crush when everything was jarred by hand, there wasn’t a drop to spare but upgrading to a jarring machine and getting used to the mechanics of it Declan was sometimes left over with extra rapeseed oil - this then became Smoked Chilli Oil. And when Smoked Chilli Oil is now being produced there is leftover miso paste which gave Declan his eureka moment and added this miso to honey with some habanero and this then became Dec’s Hot Honey! If only product development was as easy as this may read!

The sustainable growth of not only the product range at Rívesci but their team and production kitchen including coffee shop premises in Clonmel, Co Tipperary, hometown of co-founder Shannon Forrest, has led them on a path to ‘where sticking to your core values and keeping consisten’ enabled some of the country’s top retailers to come knocking at their door Rívesci currently do not have a distributor and are looking to partner with the right one, but this hasn’t stopped them. They recently launched their full range in Donnybrook Fair and are also available in Avoca, Asia Market, selected Supervalu stores, independent bakeries, deli’s, butchers and more across the country Declan and Shannon thrive on collaboration, and they have more in the pipeline so keep your eyes peeled for what lies ahead for this young and ambitious company from Clonmel!

designed to make healthy snacking exciting, approachable, and fun.

engage and excite shoppers. The new sharing format doesn’t just deliver on taste; it delivers on value and is perfectly timed for key sharing occasions. Whether it’s a night in watching the Champions League the final stages of the GAA club championship, or simply gathering with friends and family, Hunky Dorys 200g packs are made to be shared.

Bold, flavourful, and made to bring people together; these new packs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser

Absolute Nutrition introduces Joella healthy snacking

Absolute Nutrition Ireland’s award-winning producer of healthy snacks and treats, has introduced Joella, a lively new character

Joella is more than just a character – she’s the ‘spirit’ of Absolute Nutrition.

Cheerful, adventurous, and relatable, Joella represents everything the brand stands for: delicious, nourishing, and full of energy

Founder Joanne Davey describes her as: “Joella is someone we see growing with the brand. She’s fun, relatable, and full of energy As Absolute Nutrition reaches new markets, Joella will help us connect with people everywhere in a way that feels personal and inspiring.”

Joella is thought to be a little bit of Joanne’s alter ego – colourful, confident and always ready for adventure.

Hunky Dorys sharing range for the ultimate night in

It wouldn’t be Christmas without Tayto

Rívesci Cashew Chilli Crush

Declan Malone, head chef and co-founder of Rívesci

Jo’s Absolute Nutrition

SuperValu

Irish producers celebrate 96 wins at the 2025 Blás

na hÉireann Awards

SuperValu, Irish Producers secured a remarkable number of wins across multiple categories at the 2025 Blás na hÉireann Awards.

This brings the total awards achieved by SuperValu producers to 96 spanning across SuperValu Own Brand, SuperValu Signature Tastes, Food Academy and The Happy Pear ranges.

Among this year’s accolades were multiple gold, silver, and bronze awards, along with recognition in a variety of speciality categories including Chef’s Larder & Best Start Up

These wins highlight the outstanding quality and innovation of SuperValu’s Irish producers and reflect the breadth of products proudly sourced from communities across the country

Commenting, Luke Hanlon, managing director, SuperValu, said: “2025 has been a remarkable year for SuperValu’s Irish producers at the Blás na hÉireann awards, where our local suppliers were celebrated once again for their quality, innovation, and diverse offering.

“Supporting homegrown talent has always been at the core of SuperValu, and it’s inspiring to see these producers receive the recognition they truly deserve. We remain committed to championing the very best of Irish food.”

Signature Tastes and Own Brand

SuperValu’s Signature Tastes and Own Brand ranges stood out once again, with a strong showing across several award categories.

There were 12 Gold medal winners which included standout products such as Signature Tastes Irish Organic Salmon Darnes, Signature Tastes Irish Whiskey BBQ Sauce, Signature Tastes Allenwood Cheese & Signature Tastes Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice

>> She reflects the company’s ‘belief’ that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring – it can be vibrant, tasty, and full of joy.

Joella will soon appear across product packaging, social media, and marketing campaigns.

By creating Joella, Absolute Nutrition is making a statement: that healthy snacks can be fun, exciting, and bursting with personality

Joella represents:

• Trust – a familiar, reliable figure people can connect with.

• Positivity & energy – embodying the uplifting spirit behind the brand.

• Global growth – a relatable face to carry Absolute Nutrition into new markets.

“Joella reflects my own spirit – approachable and full of life – but in a way that connects across every generation,” Davey added.

Food Academy producers were once again outstanding winners, with producers securing 51 awards in total, with golds for Valentia Island Vermouth and Coffee House Lane’s Aikenhead blend.

One of Food Academy’s newest producers starting in 2025, Nice Ice Cream from Roscommon, won The Blás na hÉireann Best Start Up as well as silver & bronze.

Julia & Alexander from Odesa, have combined their passion for organic fruits and premium ingredients with high quality organic Irish milk, to create a range of exquisite ice creams & refreshing sorbets.

The Happy Pear won six awards with The Lovely Basil Pesto and Sweet Beet Hummus winning Golds, along with three Silver for The Happy Hummus, Tomato Ketchup, Sweet Potato & Squash Soup and one Bronze award for Spicy Red Pepper Pesto.

Artie Clifford, Chairperson at Blás na hEireann, commented: “Every year the standard rises, and 2025 has been no exception.

“To see the talent from Irish producers from right across the island is wonderful, it is a real testament to the skill, creativity and resilience of Ireland’s food producers.

Britvic Ireland: Making iconic Irish soft drinks since 1799

Britvic Ireland, part of Carlsberg Group, is the largest Soft Drinks Manufacturer in the Republic of Ireland. With a proud heritage which can be traced back to the 1700s, Britvic Ireland has developed a portfolio of Iconic Irish Brands which remain consumer favourites

Making it to the finalist stage alone is a huge achievement, and to win at Blás is something of which to be incredibly proud. Irish food and drink producers continue to go from strength to strength, and it is a joy to celebrate that strength and that community here in Dingle.”

Supporting local SuperValu has long championed locally, Irish-sourced food and drink, working with more than 1,800 suppliers, and this year’s wins further emphasise the variety and excellence across all categories: from meats and dairy to innovative new products.

Now in its 18th year, the Blás na hÉireann awards celebrates the very best food and drink from across the island of Ireland.

With thousands of entries spanning over 180 categories, it is recognised as an industry gold standard, where products are blind tasted by expert chefs, restaurateurs, academics, and journalists.

SuperValu’s continued success at the awards underscores the retailer’s commitment to championing the highest quality Irish food and drink.

today including Club, Miwadi, Ballygowan, Energise, TK and Cidona.

Club Orange is Irelands #1 Citrus CSD With a refreshing real fruit taste and authentic Irish roots Club is the soft drink to refresh with Irish realness.

Launched in 1927, Miwadi is Irelands #1 Dilute Brand. Every bottle of MiWadi is fortified with B Vitamins and Zinc and with lots of flavours to choose from this is a family favourite for good reason.

Ballygowan Natural Mineral Water is bottled at source in County Limerick and has been the leading water brand in Ireland since its launch in 1984. Ballygowan Hint of Fruit has proven to be a huge hit with Irish consumers, becoming the #1 Flavoured Water within three years of its launch.

Britvic Ireland is proud to represent the best of Irish beverages as a founding member of Love Irish Food and has achieved Gold membership accreditation with Origin Green.

Britvic Ireland Origin Green Ireland Sustainability Programme Gold Member 2025

(L-R) Mark Bergin, Coffee House Lane; Leigh Kelly, Zaeire; John Casey, Galmere Foods and Luke O’Donnell, Sunshine Juices. Pic: Manuela Dei Grandi

Irish Brands CATEGORY FOCUS

Ampersand brings Irish snacking innovation

CheeseO’s to market

Ampersand has recently introduced CheeseO’s, a homegrown snacking innovation produced in Fermoy, Co Cork, to its growing portfolio of Irish brands. Unlike many other snacks, CheeseO’s are simply 100% Irish cheddar cheese – cut into cubes, baked and seasoned to create a light, crunchy bite that delivers on both taste and nutrition.

Snacking continues to be one of the fastest-growing categories in FMCG, with consumers seeking products that balance indulgence with better-for-you benefits. CheeseO’s meet this demand head-on, offering a healthier alternative to crisps that is high in protein and big on flavour Each 20g pack contains 40% protein, less than 120 calories, and is gluten-free, high in calcium and suitable for vegetarians.

Fercullen Irish Whiskey: Smooth, layered elegance

For years, whiskey has been boxed in as a fireside sipper, but Fercullen Irish Whiskey is helping rewrite that narrative - one glass at a time

Crafted by the skilled team at Powerscourt Distillery, Fercullen 15 is a masterclass in smooth, layered elegance. Its rich vanilla, soft spice, and honeyed grain character shine equally well served neat, on the rocks, or as the base of a winter cocktail. In fact, its creamy finish and refined balance make it a standout in highballs, whiskey sours, or even a bold take on a whiskey spritz.

The rising interest in lighter whiskey expressions and creative serves is no coincidence. Consumers are looking for heritage and quality, but also for flexibility Fercullen Irish Whiskey offers just that: a heritage rooted in the Wicklow mountains, a commitment to quality, and a forward-thinking approach to how whiskey can be enjoyed.

Fercullen invites you to look beyond the traditional and explore whiskey in a whole new light.

Fercullen 15 and the entire Fercullen range of whiskeys are available through Barry and Fitzwilliam or directly from Powerscourt Distillery

Fercullen 15

Crunchy CheeseO’s Baked Cheddar Bites range

>>

Available in flavours inspired by Ireland’s favourite crisp seasonings – including Original Cheddar, Cheese & Onion, Pickled Onion and Salt & Vinegar – CheeseO’s tap into familiar taste profiles while offering something completely new. With an RRP of €2, they represent value in the protein snacking space.

For retailers, CheeseO’s deliver strong consumer appeal and require no refrigeration. They are available on clip strips for easy merchandising or in an outer case, with FSDU units also available to drive in-store visibility A distinctive Irish-made brand, CheeseO’s present a real opportunity to bring innovation and excitement to the savoury snacking aisle

Retailers can contact Ampersand on 01 413 0100 for orders.

New food & drink producers join Food Academy 2025 as programme sales top ¤260m

SuperValu in partnership with the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), has recently welcomed a wave of new food and drink producers into the 2025 Food Academy Programme who will have the opportunity to be on SuperValu shelves 52 weeks of the year

Since its inception in 2013, Food Academy has supported more than 1,000 producers, generating over €260 million in sales through SuperValu stores nationwide Food Academy products are projected to generate €30 million in retail sales in 2025 alone Household names such as The Happy Pear, Pizza Sorrento and SynerChi Kombucha are among the programme’s many success stories.

Fresh research insights* from SuperValu highlight a powerful consumer shift towards provenance, sustainability, and seasonal eating:

Almost half (48%) actively prioritise purchasing Irish-made products.

62% make an effort to buy fresh produce that is in season.

These insights underline the growing importance of initiatives like Food Academy, now in its 12th year, which has become a launchpad for local food and drink entrepreneurs, equipping them with retail expertise and industry knowledge to grow sustainable businesses while meeting evolving shopper expectations.

This year’s intake reflects the breadth and creativity of Ireland’s food and drink sector, spanning everything from premium Irish honey, Lebanese breads and cheeses to seaweed-based pestos, hummus, and innovative electrolyte powders. The line-up also features alcohol-free cocktails, artisan puddings, organic produce and contemporary sweet treats. Together, the 2025 entrants showcase the innovation and variety shaping Ireland’s evolving food landscape

Centra named number one convenience retailer for Blas na hÉireann

Centra’s Irish food producers have claimed 23 awards at this year’s Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards. The awards, announced on Friday, 3 October, saw Centra producers take home the most awards in the convenience market.

Celebrating and recognising the finest Irish food and drink products, Blas na hÉireann awards are the largest blind tasting event of quality Irish products on the island, with producers nationwide competing for the prestigious accolades.

The big wins include six products from the Inspired by Centra range, including Inspired By Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice

Food Academy is the only accredited producer development programme, offering participants a Certificate in Entrepreneurship from TU Dublin, which recognises and accredits the skills gained through this unique programme Participants on the programme receive tailored training in branding, marketing, finance, social media, food safety and quality, alongside one-to-one mentoring from food and retail experts, including Musgrave personnel.

Carmel Biggane, Food Academy manager, SuperValu, said: “SuperValu has proudly championed the Food Academy Programme for more than a decade, and it’s incredible to see the continued energy, creativity and ambition of Ireland’s food and drink producers. Each year, the standard of applications rises, making the selection process tougher than ever – a true reflection of the innovation happening across the country

“I want to warmly congratulate the new producers joining the Food Academy this year and look forward to seeing their ideas flourish into the household names of tomorrow.”

Tomás Hayes, head of food, Local Enterprise Office, added: “The Network of Local Enterprise Office has engaged with SuperValu over many years in the delivery of the Food Academy Programme This programme continues to deliver food innovation and entrepreneurship The Irish food sector is crucial to the nation’s economy, serving as its largest indigenous export sector, supporting significant employment, and bolstering rural and coastal communities. Sustainable food production is critical to our wellbeing and the support for early-stage producers through the Food Academy Programme supports this

by Sunshine Juice (Gold). Inspired By Centra Berry Coulis with Yogurt and Granola by Freshcut Foods (Silver) and Inspired By Centra Yule Log by Couverture Desserts Ltd (Silver). The Inspired by Centra range is expertly created to bring customers a range with value in mind without compromising on taste or quality

Key award winners from the Centra range include Centra Streaky Smoked Rashers by Oliver Carty Ltd (Silver), Centra Sriracha Quick Fry Steak by Dawn Meats (Silver) and Centra Strawberry Kefir by Clona Dairy Products Ltd (Silver).

Speaking about the awards, Luke Hanlon, managing director, Centra, stated, “As Ireland’s leading convenience retailer we are proud to bring customers the very best of Irish produce. The success of our trusted suppliers, who have earned 23 accolades at this year’s awards, is a strong reflection of this commitment. The Blas accreditation is further recognition of the quality behind Centra’s products, sourced from trusted Irish suppliers and available across our nationwide network of Centra stores.”

Now in its 18th year, Blas na hÉireann, The Irish Food Awards sees competition from a range of top-quality Irish producers across 32 counties.

action. Many of these businesses will grow creating valuable localised employment with an ambition of growing into export markets.”

Crop to crisp

The Keogh’s true family story and brand resonates strongly with Irish consumers. The Keogh family have been farming the rich fertile lands of North County Dublin for over 200 years and today Keogh’s are renowned for their fresh potatoes, premium crisps and delicious Popcorn. Keogh’s work in collaboration with local Irish ingredient suppliers to source its amazing crisps and popcorn flavours which millions of people around the world have come to know and love Keogh’s select only the best potatoes for superior quality and taste

In the last 12 months, Keogh’s has experienced strong growth across its range of premium snacks. growing eight times ahead of

SuperValu Food Academy

Liz and Dermot Skehan, Fresh Cut Foods. Photograph: Manuela Dei Grandi

A selection of Keogh’s crisps and popcorn

>>

the market*, with unique flavour profiles and quality being key drivers of the grá for the Irish brand in the hearts and minds of consumers.

While the overall Irish crisp market saw a modest 1.8% rise, Keogh’s recorded a significant 17% increase The brand’s momentum has only strengthened as the year progressed, up 27% in the last six months and 29% over 12 weeks*. Keogh’s now holds an impressive 12% share of the total crisp market, driven by its commitment to real Irish ingredients and crop to crisp transparency.

Its limited-edition Roast Turkey & Secret Stuffing crisps is returning just in time for Christmas. Each Christmas Keogh’s gently seasons a limited amount of its potato crisps with a combination of its secret stuffing and succulent roast turkey ’If you Keogh, You Know!’

*Source: Nielsen 22/06/25

Are you Ireland’s next food, drink or ingredients entrepreneur?

Ireland’s leading accelerator for high-potential food and drink start-ups, Food Works, has recently announced the call for applications to its 2026 programme Backed by Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc, the statefunded initiative has already helped over 130 ambitious companies to launch, scale or secure investment since its launch in 2012.

The programme has been instrumental in the success of brands such as All Real Nutrition, Grá Chocolates, Chimac, Valentia Island Vermouth and Wicklow Wolf, proving its role as a launchpad for some of Ireland’s bestknown innovators.

Food Works 2026

Food Works runs annually from February to November Participating companies take part in workshops with national and international industry experts across various disciplines such as strategy, finance, sustainable manufacturing and marketing. Successful applicants are supported to get investor-ready by developing a comprehensive business plan focussed on scaling internationally They also receive customised support from business advisors, facilitated peer-to-peer learning and the opportunity to avail of feasibility grant funding of up to €30,000

The three state agencies, Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc, work jointly to deliver the Food Works programme

If you want to be the next successful food, drink or ingredients entrepreneur, make sure you apply by the closing date of the 28 November 2025. Full details and an application form are available at FoodWorksIreland.ie

Roll It Pastry unveils fresh new look following BrandBite training programme

Roll It Pastry, the award-winning all-Irish butter pastry brand founded by Mairead Finnegan in 2013, has officially unveiled its vibrant new branding at Roll It HQ in Co Meath. The rebrand marks a bold new chapter for the company, inspired by its participation in the inaugural BrandBite training programme, an initiative by The Art of Grate

Quality, community and craft: McCabe’s Coffee toasts three-star Great Taste success

McCabe’s Coffee, the speciality roastery based in County Wicklow, is celebrating a prestigious three-star award at this year’s Great Taste Awards. The accolade was awarded to Blend 15, making it one of Ireland’s most highly recognised coffees of 2025.

The award is the latest milestone in a journey that began in 1997 when founder Clive McCabe set up a small roastery in the family garage Today, under the leadership of Stephen McCabe, the business has grown into a trusted name in Irish speciality coffee Each batch is carefully roasted at the Wicklow roastery, ensuring freshness and flavour are delivered to customers nationwide

Hero products aside from the awardwinning Blend 15 include the popular Mocha Java and the Organic Blend, each available through McCabe’s direct-to-consumer online store as well as in a host of hospitality venues. Coffee lovers can enjoy McCabe’s blends at Zest Bang Restaurant, Enso, Lolly n Cooks and The Martello, among some 450 others.

Sustainability is central to McCabe’s ethos. The company sources responsibly grown beans, invests in recyclable packaging and has implemented energy-conscious roasting methods. Community is also a core focus, with McCabe’s supporting local initiatives and sharing coffee knowledge through education programmes that benefit both customers and growers.

Speaking on the win, Stephen McCabe, managing director, said: “This recognition means the world to us. Our goal has always

Food in association with Blas na hÉireann, and Taste 4 Success Skillnet, one of 70 Skillnet Business Networks nationwide

BrandBite is a 15-week programme designed to help Irish food and drink producers build a strong, resonant brand that connects emotionally with customers. Through expertled workshops and one-on-one training, participants learn how to refine their brand identity, strengthen market presence, and achieve sustainable growth.

For more information, stockist details and recipe inspiration, visit www.rollitpastry.com

Subh

Fraoc ˙

Bán triumphant in the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards 2025

Subh Fraoc˙ Bán based in Ballinode, Co Monaghan, received a Gold award for its Mango Chutney award at the recent Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards ceremony, which was held in The Mansion House, Dublin, on Wednesday 10 September

It also secured the Product of the year 2025 and the Small Producer of the Year awards.

The esteemed panel of judges, including recipe developers, chefs, buyers, and other industry professionals, put each entry through a rigorous judging process, so being shortlisted for a Q is a huge achievement.

For more information about Subh Fraoċ Bán, visit their website: www.subhfraocban.ie

been to make outstanding coffee more accessible while staying true to our values of quality, care and sustainability The fact that customers can order directly from our roastery in Wicklow and enjoy these blends at home makes the achievement even more rewarding.”

With demand for speciality coffee continuing to rise across Ireland, McCabe’s Coffee is proud to combine award-winning blends with a commitment to craft, community and sustainability The threestar accolade is both a celebration of the team’s dedication and a recognition of the growers, customers and partners who make each cup possible

For more information on McCabe’s Coffee, where you get a cup or how to buy some for at-home use, visit www.mccabecoffee.com and keep up to date with them on social media @mccabecoffee

Love Irish Food and Applegreen join forces

Love Irish Food (LIF) has recently announced a new three-year partnership with Applegreen that will see a number of its member brands showcased in approximately 90 Applegreen stores nationwide starting this month.

Love Irish Food, a non-profit organisation, aims to highlight the potential of Irish products, promote their future in the Irish food and drink sector and encourage consumers to support homegrown brands. Irish retailer Applegreen began as a single service station in Ballyfermot, West Dublin, in 1992.

Customer offer

Today, it has more than 430 sites across Ireland, the UK and the United States, with food at the heart of its customer offer

This new collaboration demonstrates both organisations’ commitment to supporting Irish producers and promoting local brands.

The partnership will involve an in-store activation next year to help customers identify Love Irish Food member products in Applegreen stores.

Well-known Love Irish Food members such as Butlers, Nomadic, Mi Wadi, Everest, Club, Cadbury, Boyne Valley, Tic Tac, Keelings, O’Donnells, Ballygowan, King, Hunky Dory and Tayto will be available in a number of Applegreen locations nationwide

McCabes Coffee Wicklow Organic

>> They will be highlighted utilising the Applegreen digital media assets, as well as in store on designated display units for at least a 6-week period annually

LIF member brands including Avonmore, Couverture, Freshcut Foods, Flahavans Oats, Jos, Folláin, Ballymaloe will also be featured in selected Applegreen outlets within its Braeburn Coffee Café locations and in their in-house deli/food counter Bakewell sections.

Commenting on the partnership, Applegreen’s trading director Deborah Howell said: “As an Irish business, Applegreen has always championed local suppliers and homegrown brands.

“This partnership with Love Irish Food strengthens that commitment, giving us a fantastic opportunity to highlight the quality and diversity of Irish products across our network.

“We’re proud to support Irish producers and bring even more locally made favourites to our customers.”

Love Irish Food, executive director Conor Kilduff said: “We are delighted to announce the launch of our partnership with Applegreen.

“This collaboration marks a significant step forward in our ongoing commitment to champion Irish brands.

“By working together, we aim to make it easier for consumers to identify Love Irish Food member products, empowering them to make informed choices that support local businesses and celebrate the very best of Irish brands.”

The partnership launched on 1 October 2025 marking the beginning of a three-year long partnership

Thanks to this collaboration, customers will be able to support Irish brands through Applegreen’s sites.

Convenience without compromise

The Retail Convenience sector is evolving rapidly, and for over 35 years, Cuisine de France has continued to lead in the food-togo and the In-Store Bakery markets. Today’s consumers crave convenience without compromise, seeking freshly baked breads, pastries, and sweet treats that deliver both taste and quality in fast-paced lifestyles. Health, nutrition, and sustainability are now central to purchasing decisions. Retailers and

suppliers are responding with products that are responsibly sourced, nutritionally balanced, and aligned with evolving consumer values. Cuisine de France is committed to creating freshly baked goods that combine indulgence with wellbeing, while embracing environmentally responsible practices in sourcing, production, and packaging.

To remain at the forefront of the market, agility and innovation are essential. Cuisine de France continues to develop products that not only meet today’s consumer needs but also anticipate the trends of tomorrow, supporting retailers with high-quality, sustainable, and commercially successful fresh-baked products. ■

The importance of Irishness

Out of 198 categories, we just look at the Top 15 here for a) ‘how important’ Irishness is and b) how satisfied they are with how ‘Irish’ the category is. No surprise that ‘fresh’ categories dominate both lists (Meat, Fish, Dairy Veg). Baby Food is an interesting one – ranks #6 for Irishness being important but outside the Top 15 for how satisfied shoppers are on this metric (actually ranks #61…not a bad score but not meeting shopper expectations). Get in touch to see where your category ranks on each metric and understand if you are meeting shopper expectations on Irishness or not.

Colm Rooney, managing director, Shopper Intelligence Ireland

Cuisine de France Christmas inspired sandwich

(L-R) Deborah Howell, trading director, Applegreen, Conor Kilduff, executive director, Love Irish Food, Andrea Murray, marketing manager, Love Irish Food

75 MARKET MOVERS

The Happy Pear

Introducing Donegal Catch Fish Goujons

The Happy Pear Lucozade

Lucozade

Seriously tasty, high protein, perfect in the air-fryer

Donegal Catch, Ireland’s leading frozen fish brand for almost 40 years, is thrilled to announce the launch of their new Donegal Catch fish goujons range

Made with 100% hand-cut fish fillets and high in protein, they are a perfect alternative to chicken or meat and a great way to get more fish into your diet.

Designed with busy professionals, couples and families in mind, these convenient new goujons are sure to elevate any meal occasion at home Simply chose your favourite flavour - Crunchy Breaded or Chip Shop Battered, and make the most delicious wrap, taco, add to a salad or a home-made spice box for that fake-away experience. The options are endless, these are perfect to share, quick to prepare and perfect for the air-fryer

Made in Ireland using responsibly sourced fish and the packaging is fully recyclable

The Happy Pear is excited to re-introduce its well-known and much-loved Hummus pots and new Organic Super Greens Pesto in brand-new, eyecatching packaging. The award-winning products are now ideal for delicious snacking, speedy lunches and tasty meals. Made with the best-quality ingredients, each hummus in the range is bursting with flavour, packed with goodness and ready to be enjoyed! Dip, dunk, devour

In addition to their delicious Lovely Basil Pesto, Sundried Tomato Pesto, Spicy Red Pepper Pesto and Black Olive Tapenade, The Happy Pear have also launched a brand new addition to the range - the Organic Super Greens Pesto, a delicious blend of leafy greens and cashew nuts, packed full of fresh good-for-you ingredients.

The Happy Pear Red Pepper Hummus, Happy Hummus, Reduced Fat Hummus, Moroccan Style Hummus and Sweet Beet Hummus are now available in new packaging with the same great taste, alongside the New Organic Super Greens Pesto, Lovely Basil Pesto, Sundried Tomato Pesto, Spicy Red Pepper Pesto,and Black Olive Tapenade all available in SuperValu and Centra stores nationwide Pick up a tub of your favorite flavour today.

Lucozade brings the energy to a renewed partnership with Irish Rugby

*Lucozade Sport has renewed its long-standing partnership with the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU), continuing as the Official Hydration Partner of the Irish Rugby teams through to 2028.

This renewed agreement reflects Lucozade Sport’s commitment to supporting athletes at all levels – from grassroots all the way up to the elite stage, embodied by Irish Men’s Captain and Lucozade brand ambassador Caelan Doris. For decades, Lucozade Sport has been part of athletes’ routines across all levels of sport and fitness, delivering scientifically enhanced hydration when it matters most*.

As part of this partnership, Lucozade Sport will continue to support all Irish Rugby teams, including the Men’s and Women’s Senior Teams, helping players stay at their best and inspiring the next generation of fans and athletes.

To celebrate the partnership renewal, Lucozade Sport will launch a major in-store competition this Autumn, offering fans the chance to win a trip for two to see Ireland take on France in Paris in next year’s Six Nations.

*LZS provides carbohydrates and electrolytes to enhance hydration and help maintain performance during prolonged endurance exercise

Donegal Catch Fish Goujons Breaded Crunchy and Golden

Lucozade Sport Raspberry

The Happy Pear Happy Hummus and Red Pepper Hummus

Donegal Catch Fish Goujons Battered Chip Shop

Lucozade Sport Orange

2025-2026 Irish Wine Show Star Award winners announced

The National Off-Licence Association (NOffLA) has awarded its annual Irish Wine Show Star Awards to 55 wines this evening. Now in its 24th year, the event was hosted at the Hilton Charlemont in Dublin. The winning wines from the Irish Wine Show Star Awards will be available to consumers from NOffLA outlets across Ireland.

High alcohol excise putting Irish retailers at risk

At the event, NOffLA expressed the strong concern of its members that Ireland continues to levy the second highest excise

on wine across the EU and UK. They emphasised that they hope to see a reduction in excise duty as part of Budget 2026, which will help ease the high cost burdens experienced by many independent off-licences in the last year NOffLA, along with the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI) has called for a 10% excise rate reduction in Budget 2026 to bring Ireland’s alcohol excise regime in line with European levels and to also help protect the commercial viability of businesses within the Irish drinks sector, particularly during a time of global economic uncertainty

Speaking at the Awards, Gary O’Donovan, ex-chairman of

World White under €20 Vanidade Albarino

Old World Red under €12Paparuda Cabernet Sauvignon,

Old World Red under €15Principe De Viana Crianza

Old World Red under €20 Larga Historia Garnacha

Irish drinks sector at risk as Ireland continues to be a European outlier on alcohol tax

said: “We are delighted to honour the outstanding wines that NOffLA members sell across the country and that our wonderful customers enjoy. I want to congratulate all of the winners this evening and thank everyone who submitted an application this year.”

“Unfortunately, Irish drinks sector businesses are burdened with the second highest levels of alcohol excise in the EU and UK, and excise increases from a

decade ago remain in place and continue to impact these small, independent businesses. This is particularly disappointing given that Minimum Unit Pricing, which ensures alcohol cannot be sold at dangerously low prices, has been in place for several years meaning that Ireland’s punitively high excise levels are no longer justified from a public health perspective.

We are calling for an excise reduction to be included in >>

Old World White under €30 Lopez de Haro Blanco Reserva2018Spain

Old World Red under €30 Chateau Peybonhomme Les Tours 'Majeure' Bordeaux

New World White under €12Porcupine Ridge Sauvignon Blanc

New World White under €15Nau Mai Sauvignon Blanc

New World White under €20 Lubanzi Chenin Blanc

New World White under €30 Montes Outer Limits Albariño

New World Red under €12Barramundi Shiraz

New World Red under €15Callia Malbec

New World Red under €20 Malbado Malbec

New World Red under €30 Kaiken Ultra Malbec

Rose Under €20 Museum Rosé

Wines

Africa Mackenway Wines

Liberty Wines Ltd

Coman's Beverages

Mackenway Wines

Grace Campbell Wines

Liberty Wines Ltd

Spain Mackenway Wines

Sparkling Under €30 Valdo Aquarius Rosé Spumante Brut NV Italy Febvre Wines

Champagne under €80 Champagne Deutz Brut Classic NV FranceFebvre Wines

Orange Wine under €30 Bedoba Orange

Georgia Liberty Wines

Non-alcoholic Red under €15Villa Noria 'Levin' Pinot Noir, (Organic /Sulphite Free)2024FranceTindal Wine Merchants

Non-alcoholic White under €15Torres Natureo White 0.0% Alcohol

Spain Findlater & Co

Non-alcoholic Sparkling under €15Leitz Zero Sparkling Rosé NV GermanyMackenway Wines

White Wine of the Year 2025-2026 Lopez de Haro Blanco Reserva2018Spain Findlater & Co Wine of the Year 2025-2026 Larga Historia Garnacha

Spain Findlater & Co

Gold Star Award winners

Gold Star Award winners

NOffLA,

Budget 2026 next week to recognise the pressures and increasingly uncertain economic conditions these businesses now face.”

Renewed call for an EU approach to labelling regulations

NOffLA also addressed the government’s recent decision to postpone the implementation of mandatory alcohol health warning labels, which had been due to come into effect in May 2026 under section 12 of the Public Health (Alcohol) Act 2018. While NOffLA welcomed the postponement, they also renewed their call for Ireland to align its approach with the EU to avoid placing unnecessary burdens on the Irish drinks industry O’Donovan added that “we welcome the delay to the implementation of the Alcohol

Labelling regulations under the Public Health (Alcohol) Act that was announced earlier this year However, we continue to call for the Government to follow a harmonised EU approach to alcohol labelling. A coordinated European framework would prevent Irish businesses being placed at a competitive disadvantage compared to their European counterparts and ensure consistency across the Single Market.”

Winners of this year’s Star Awards

In excess of 600 wines were submitted to the Star Award adjudication panel of NOffLA judges and independent wine journalists. Points were awarded on the basis of appearance, smell, taste and value for money criteria, and the winning 55 were selected as the best wines from key suppliers across a number of

price categories. Each of the winning wines will be sold in NOffLA member outlets across the country and will be recognisable by distinctive Award symbols on each bottle In

the pre-Christmas period NOffLA members will promote the Irish Wine Show Star Awards 20252026 Collection as ideal Christmas gifts, in a variety of special gift packs. ■

Jameson reveals fresh new family line-up

Jameson, the world’s bestselling Irish whiskey, has recently revealed its latest evolution of the Jameson family line up Following the redesign of Jameson Original, the latest pack updates now unfold across superpremium+ whiskeys including renamed Jameson Distiller’s Batch and Jameson Crested. A modern take on whiskeys so distinctive, they must be a Jameson.

The roll out of the Jameson family new look began with Jameson Black Barrel in 2024 which has since experienced double digit growth in the US, followed by Jameson Original in July 2025, drawing Jameson’s most iconic elements into sharper focus, giving them stronger meaning across the range, in partnership with independent brand and design agency JDO The new portfolio structure encourages loyal fans to explore and trade up, while new recruits are welcomed into a world that feels both familiar and fresh.

It’s now time to introduce Jameson Distiller’s Batch, previously known as Jameson Single Pot Still. This award-winning single pot still liquid remains the same, carefully crafted by master distiller Kevin O’Gorman and masterfully aged in five different types of oak casks hand-selected by the team at Midleton for a whiskey that is equal parts complexity and smoothness.

29 SuperValu stores named as finalists in the Edward Dillion & Santa Rita Estates SuperValu Off Licence of the Year Awards

On Thursday 20 November, the annual Edward Dillion & Santa Rita Estates SuperValu Off Licence of the Year Awards will take place at The Ormonde Hotel, Kilkenny. From over 220 SuperValu stores across the country, 29 have been selected as finalists and will battle it out to be named the winners in four categories.

The winners of this year’s Edward Dillon & Santa Rita Estates SuperValu Off Licence of the Year Award will enjoy an exclusive trip to Nashville to visit home of Jack Daniel’s.

The categories of the awards are:

• Overall Winner SuperValu Off Licence of the Year

• Performer of the Year Award

• Large Store Off Licence of the Year

• Small / Medium Store Off Licence of the Year

The 29 finalist stores include:

• SuperValu Arklow

• SuperValu Ballincollig

• SuperValu Ballisodare

• SuperValu Bantry

• SuperValu Blanchardstown

• SuperValu Carrigaline

• SuperValu Castlerea

• SuperValu Castleisland

• SuperValu Castletownbere

• SuperValu Castletroy

• SuperValu Clonakilty

• SuperValu Corbally

• SuperValu Dingle

• SuperValu Dundalk

• SuperValu Enniscorthy

• SuperValu Glanmire

• SuperValu Kanturk

• SuperValu Listowel

• SuperValu Midleton

• SuperValu Moycullen

• SuperValu Mullingar

• SuperValu Oranmore

• SuperValu Palmerstown

• SuperValu Strokestown

• SuperValu

St Aidan’s Wexford

• SuperValu Sutton

• SuperValu Swords

• SuperValu Togher

• SuperValu Tralee

Trapiche joins the Findlater & Co. Portfolio in Ireland

Findlater & Co has recently announced the addition of Trapiche, Argentina’s most awarded winery, to its prestigious portfolio in Ireland.

Founded in 1883 at the foothills of the Andes in Mendoza, Trapiche has built an international reputation for crafting wines that combine tradition, innovation, and excellence. Today, Trapiche is Argentina’s leading winery in both production and exports, with a presence in more than 80 countries worldwide Its philosophy, “where there is soil, the sky is the limit,” reflects a pioneering spirit and commitment to showcasing the country’s diverse terroirs.

With 1,200 hectares of estate vineyards and the support of 300 independent producers, Trapiche produces wines of character balance, and authenticity This dedication has earned Trapiche recognition as the most awarded winery in Argentina, as well as international acclaim, including New World Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast in 2019, and multiple listings among The World’s Most Admired Wine Brands.

Chief winemaker Sergio Casé commented: “My passion is to transform the grape into wine, and this leads me to explore new terroirs constantly Wine is family, friends, and new experiences.”

Through this exciting partnership, Findlater & Co is proud to bring Trapiche’s awardwinning wines to Ireland, strengthening its portfolio with one of the world’s most admired wine brands. ■

Jameson’s Distiller’s Batch

Trapiche Oak Cask

CORONA, THE WORLD’S MOST VALUABLE BEER BRAND

IS PROUDLY CELEBRATING ITS 100-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

A remarkable milestone for the iconic brand that has been synonymous with the beach and enjoyed by consumers worldwide for the past century. Since 1925, Corona has cultivated a deep association with the beach; fully embodying a lifestyle connected to nature and relaxation

In honor of the occasion, Corona invites everyone to live their “beach side” – a.k.a. their best side – at top-tier beach locations across the globe The Corona 100 platform includes a film highlighting 100 years of beach culture, a definitive list of the top 100 beaches in the world to visit, and a signed multi-year sponsorship of a renowned concert at Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro all offering people across the globe opportunities to connect with their beach side

“For 100 years, Corona has fully embodied the ‘This is Living’ spirit

of the beach lifestyle inspiring people to disconnect from their everyday routine and reconnect with nature and each other,” said Clarissa Pantoja, Global VP of Corona. “Enjoyed by millions around the world today and still growing, Corona will always remain unwavering in its commitment to the beach. This anniversary is not just a celebration of our legacy, but also a call for everyone to embrace their best side – the beach side – both now and for the next 100 years to follow.”

100 Years, 100 Iconic Beaches

To honor a century of beach side living, the brand has created its Corona Beach 100 list: a curated guide of the world’s most iconic beaches that best represent Corona’s “This is Living” expression. From hidden coves to legendary coastlines to remote paradises, these beaches aren’t just destinations; they’re places where people have traveled for centuries to disconnect from the real world and reconnect with nature.

The guide includes sandy beaches from famed hotspots within South Africa, Mexico,

and Brazil, as well as showcases some closer to home shorelines, such as Rossnowlagh in Donegal, Ireland.

Additionally, Corona offered consumers the chance to visit the iconic beaches featured on the Beach 100 list. Anyone of legal drinking age could enter to win a chance to tap into their beach side at one of the 100 crowned coastlines, Corona Island by simply by purchasing the special edition 100 Anniversary pack and scanning the QR code Other instant win items included Corona merchandise, coolers, towels, and digital vouchers. Competition ended 31.08.2025. ■

1 2

3 ONES TO WATCH

5

TOP 6

From gooseberry jam to banoffee cheesecake here’s our top pick of new and diverse products that Irish food and drink producers have to offer

EDITOR’S PICK

4

6

1 Andrea’s Kitchen Gooseberry Jam, available from select SuperValu’s and independent retailers nationwide 2 Treats by Sylvia Banoffee Cheesecake, €5, available from selected SuperValu, Centra, Fresh stores nationwide 3 Second Street Bakeshop, Gourmet Toffee Popcorn, RRP €3.49, available from Lidl Kickstart Range (for a limited time) and stockists nationwide 4 Noble Artisan Mango Sorbet, Noble Artisan Chocolate Ice Cream, RRP: €7.90, available from selected SuperValu stores and local artisan food shops across Co Roscommon, Co Galway, Co Mayo, Co Leitrim and Co Sligo. 5 Hytropics, Salty Raspberry & Elderflower, Salty Lime & Grapefruit, Salty Lime & Grapefruit, RRP: €3.50, available from SuperValu, Spar, EuroSpar, Centra, Donnybrook Fair, Nolans of Clontarf, Down to Earth, Horans Health Food Stores. 6 Warty Goblin Pumpkin, RRP €3, available from M&S nationwide.

Clarification:

In our August 2025 edition of ShelfLife on page 38, in the Category Focus feature on Symbol Groups, a photo of Monney’s MACE Holycross, Co. Waterford was featured. However, the caption incorrectly stated the location as Co. Tipperary. We would like to apologise for the error and any inconvenience caused

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

QUICK QUESTIONS WITH

GRAEME SLATTERY senior managing director, Teneo

Graeme Slattery is an expert consumer brand strategist with more than 20 years’ experience working with major international corporations across multiple markets.

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

Drops of God. It’s kind of like a wine version of The Queen’s Gambit.

2. Best place for coffee?

I typically grab a coffee from my local Circle K on my way to work. Coffee snobs might be aghast at that, but they’re missing out!

3. Top movie recommendation?

It’s an old one but my favourite movie is still Rushmore, and I watch it once a year… at least.

4. Top book recommendation? Yellow Face by R. F. Kuang.

5. Which social media platform do you use most? I spend way too much time on TikTok.

6. Favourite influencer/content creator if you have one? Josh Pugh @joshpughcomic

7. Best advert on TV?

I loved the Sky - Roy Keane ad.

8. Worst advert on TV?

That Aviva Insurance ad where the child says Geneva instead of Aviva kind of grates on me.

9. Favourite grocery shop? Dunnes Cornelscourt.

10. If you had to live in another country, where would you choose? On a Greek island.

11. Greatest achievement to date? My three daughters.

12. Do you prefer working from home or in the office/on-site? I like to mix it up, but being around colleagues is invaluable.

13. Best piece of advice you ever received?

Keep it in the day. It’s a mantra I revisit every morning, so I don’t have to stress about the future.

14. Biggest fear?

Losing my hearing - because music means so much to me. A few years ago, I couldn’t hear properly for a couple of days after a particularly loud gig but thankfully it came back.

15. City or beach break? Beach.

16. Top restaurant recommendation? Little Forest in Blackrock.

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

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

Samsung. In my view they’re always ahead of the game in consumer technology but I don’t think they get enough credit compared to Apple.

19. Best customer service you ever received? Center Parcs – their people are amazing, so welcoming and helpful.

20. What’s the last compliment you received? I can’t remember the exact words, but it was something about my ability to stay very calm during moments of adversity. ■

Graeme Slattery, senior managing director, Teneo