Retail News January/February 2018

Retail News JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

Ireland’s Longest Established Grocery Magazine

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Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie|1

Contents News

2018: The Challenges Ahead WHAT will 2018 bring for the Irish grocery sector? There’s little doubt that it will remain just as competitive as recent years, while there is plenty of legislative change coming down the track, with the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill being debated in the Dáil as we go to press, as well as the Sugar Sweetened Drinks Tax and the General Data Protection Regulation, which come into force in April and May respectively. Add in the continuing Brexit negotiations and it should be a fairly tumultuous year.

Arguably the most pressing issue for many retailers, however, is the spiralling cost of insurance premiums, which led to the formation of the Alliance for Insurance Reform (Page 2).

One good news story to emerge already this year was the signing of the Food Waste Charter by five of the biggest retail groups in the country.

Musgrave, BWG Group, Tesco, Aldi and Lidl have agreed a common methodology for the collection of food waste data within their businesses (Page 5).

David Berry, Director at Kantar Worldpanel, looks back over the last 12 months in the FMCG market, as three supermarkets battled for the number one spot, the health and wellness trend continued to shape the market and convenience remained king (Page 12).

We also talk to BWG’s John Moane, Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund President of Appeals, about the continued relevance of the IGBF and what he hopes to achieve during his tenure as President (Page 16) and reveal the NOffLA Off License of the Year (Page 48).

2

New alliance to tackle spiralling insurance costs.

3

BWG Group announces the purchase of 4 Aces Wholesale.

4

Retailers wary of bottle deposit/ return scheme; Irish SMEs lose €1.7 billion annually to bad debt.

5

Major retailers sign Food Waste Charter.

6

Supermarkets get into the Christmas spirit; Local is Vital Irish consumers actively choose homegrown products.

7

Consumer spending for 2017 finishes on a high; Aldi bans sale of energy drinks to under 16s; Lidl to open distribution centre in Newbridge.

Market Overview 12

David Berry, Director at Kantar Worldpanel, looks back over the Irish grocery market in 2017, revealing the winners and losers and the trends that shaped the FMCG sector.

12

Retail Ireland: Monthly Update 22

Energy Management 34

John Moane, Managing Director of BWG’s Wholesale Division, is the 2018 Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund President of Appeals. He discusses the continued importance of the Fund, the challenge of attracting new blood and what he hopes to achieve during his tenure as President.

Food Trends 21

Dr Deirdre Moriarty, food trends expert at Musgrave MarketPlace, on the five key trends and ingredients this year.

Get Solutions can save every retailer up to 30% on their annual utility costs, while helping the environment at the same time.

IGBF Southern Region Gala Ball 36

The 41st annual IGBF Southern Region Gala Ball helped to get 2018 off to a great start, while raising important funds for the charity.

Sponsorship 39

2018 is set to be a record year for sponsorship in Ireland, breaking the €200m mark for the first time.

Personal Care 40

Created to offer easy make-up removal, skin cleansing and care, the Nivea cleansing range delivers the most complete cleansing experience.

NOffLA Off-Licence of the Year Awards 48

The Retail News Interview 16

Public Health (Alcohol) Bill passed

by Seanad Éireann; Irish retailers move to adapt to new age of technology.

Jus de Vine in Portmarnock, Co. Dublin, was the overall winner at the NOffLA Off Licence of the Year Awards.

Focus on HR 58

Losing experienced staff to a competitor can be a disappointing and costly experience.

Workplace Wellbeing 60

The KeepWell Mark is a new Ibec accreditation and award to recognise organisations who look after staff health and wellbeing.

Kathleen Belton, Editorial & Marketing Director.

Regulars & Reports

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Web: www.retailnews.ie Email: kathleenbelton@retailnews.ie

Chief News Reporter: Pavel Barter Production: Ciara Conway Printed by: W&G Baird

Wine Correspondent: Jean Smullen

Graphics: Catherine Doyle

Subscription to Retail News: e95 plus VAT Email: ciara@tarapublications.ie Reproduction without written permission is strictly prohibited.

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Industry News Easter Treats Paper Products Drinks News Vaping What’s New Forecourt Focus: News Shelf Life

2|Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie

News

New Alliance to Tackle Spiralling Insurance Costs

RETAILERS claim the government is prioritising the needs of insurance companies despite the spiralling cost of premiums. Eoin McCambridge, owner of McCambridge’s, a store and restaurant in Galway, said his insurance cost has risen from €27,000 in 2015 to €102,000 in 2017. He described the situation as a threat to his 93-year-old business.

“We've been fleeced,” McCambridge told Retail News. “It's a scandal. The legal profession is saying the insurance companies are overcharging; the insurers are blaming the legal profession for taking too many fraudulent claims. Meanwhile, policy holders are losing out.”

Last month, the Department of Finance Ever rising insurance premiums is a “survival and competitiveness” published its latest report into the cost of insurance. issue for retail businesses, with some businesses threatened with McCambridge believes the report fails to sufficiently closure over the unsustainable cost increases. address the issue: “It doesn't mention policy holders The Alliance wants more transparency from insurance and protecting their interests. To my mind, the main input has companies. “When someone tells us the insurance industry been from insurance companies, Insurance Ireland, the legal is losing money, or blames the size and number of fraudulent professions, and the Law Society.” claims, there is no evidence or data to back that up,” according The Cost of Insurance Working Report was “conscious to Boland. “You're legally obliged to have insurance and yet of the need to ensure that a financially stable and solvent there is no industry data available.” Furthermore, premium insurance sector is maintained”. The newly formed Alliance holders often have no information as to how, when and why, for Insurance Reform described the group's motives as biased. claims are settled.

According to Peter Boland, Alliance spokesperson, “vested The recent Working Report criticised insurers for settling interests - the insurance industry and the legal profession claims without informing policy holders. “Insurers are unwilling - have the ear of the department. Representation for policy to take cases to court - they are immediately inclined to settle,” holders is meagre at best.” said Hanley. Retailers describe this situation as frustrating, Boland, McCambridge, and others, formed the Alliance particularly in the event of misleading or exaggerated claims. as a single issue organisation in frustration over a succession Business groups have called for the law to change in order of government committees, consultations, and reviews. The to prosecute fraudulent claimants. While the Working Report groups make recommendations about insurance reform, but recognised that there were few prosecutions for perjury, it fail to take action, they say. stopped short of calling for a reform to the law.

Tara Buckley, Director General of RGDATA, said that Payout awards, meanwhile, remain high in comparison RGDATA joined forces with the Alliance because the problem with other countries. A minor ankle injury, which can result affects entire communities. “Not just shopkeepers, but people in a €12,554 award in the UK, reaches sums of €54,700 in representing voluntary groups, sports groups, etc.,” she told Ireland. Vincent Jennings, CEO of the Convenience Stores Retail News. “We have to tackle the increasing cost of insurance, & Newsagents Association (CSNA), described the Book of a compensation culture, the cost of claims, and the way they Quantum, which estimates compensation claim awards in are dealt with in the courts and at PIAB [the Personal Injuries Ireland, as a reward system: “The figures in Ireland for injuries Assessment Board]. All these areas need to be reformed.” are out of kilter with other European countries and in particular An Alliance survey of 950 of its members found that since the UK. Irish elbows and knees seem to be four or five times 2013, nearly half (47%) of respondents saw their premiums more valuable here than elsewhere.” rise by over 30%. Over one fifth experienced rises of over 70%.

The Alliance contends the legal system does not have the William Hanley, the owner of a Supervalu store in Dublin, and incentive to tackle the issue, due to profits made by “no win, no an Alliance member, said his premium increased 90% between fee” solicitors.

2016 and 2017.

McCambridge accused the Law Society of failing to “When you add the excess charge, payable on every claim, reprimand a section of the legal profession that advises its it puts the whole business in focus at renewal time every year,” claimants not to take settlements from the Personal Injuries said Hanley. “How do we cover the cost of insurance? Do we Assessment Board in order to gain an increased award at court. look at a larger excess to offset the premium? Where can you “There are no sanctions. I've never heard of a legal company save on cost to stay insured? We want a greater voice for policy getting sanctioned for taking a misleading or exaggerated holders. We always seem to be bottom of the list.”

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News

BWG Group Announces the Purchase of 4 Aces Wholesale

A growing compensation culture is part of the problem, with payout awards high in comparison with other countries. claim,” he said.

Due to a rising number of claims, retailers now struggle to find insurance in Ireland. “The vast majority of our members do not have any choice about insurance cover,” said Buckley.

“They're lucky if one person will quote them. This idea the government has to keep the market competitive and attract new players in insurance is absolute baloney.”

A spokesperson for the Department of Finance denied claims from the Alliance that it was prioritising insurance companies at the expense of policy holders, saying the Insurance Working Group had consulted with businesses that included the retail sector.

“It heard consistently from different businesses how a combination of the very significant increase in business insurance costs and the withdrawal of cover from certain sectors has meant that the issue of insurance has become a survival and competitiveness issue for many businesses in Ireland,” noted the spokesperson. “In addition, a key issue raised related to the uncertainty in the current claims environment, in particular with an inconsistent level of awards, how business policy holders were informed that a claim was being made against them, and a perception of an increased level of fraudulent or exaggerated claims.”

“There is a recognition by most stakeholders that there is no single policy or legislative 'silver bullet' to immediately stem or reverse premium price rises... It will take a certain amount of time to transform the current landscape and in that regard, certain recommendations will take time in order to be implemented,” said the spokesperson.

The Alliance plans to make its concerns heard at the government table. According to the retailers we spoke to, rising premiums disproportionally affect small food retailers.

“Bigger companies can manage it a bit better,” said McCambridge. “Some of the big supermarkets now self-insure.

They can manage it on a corporate level and they're starting to fight more of the claims. It's very difficult to get our insurance company to do that for us.”

According to Boland, it is not difficult to trace the symptoms of Ireland's insurance sickness: follow the money trail. “There are a very small number of companies and individuals making an enormous amount of money out of this at the moment: the legal profession, insurance companies, and the claimants. They have a huge incentive to keep things the way they are. But the vast majority of people in this country, whether they’re retailers, charities, voluntary groups, sports clubs, are paying the price.

Bumping up insurance premiums is not a victimless issue: it has serious consequences for society as a whole.”

For more information, see www.insurancereform.ie.

BWG Group has agreed terms to acquire 4 Aces Wholesale Limited, a well established independent wholesaler supplying the grocery retail, licensed and foodservice trades in Ireland, and a member of the Gala Retail Group, for an undisclosed sum. The transaction is subject to approval from the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission.

BWG Group CEO, Leo As part of the Crawford. transaction, Gala Retail, the independent convenience retailing group established in 1998 with a network of 220 Gala Group stores nationwide and serviced nationally by nine wholesale members, has accepted BWG’s application for membership of the Gala wholesaler network.

4 Aces, which reported a turnover of €57.5m for 2016 and employs 85 staff, is a successful family-led business that is currently owned by its principals, Liam Linden and Pascal O’Brien, who will remain with the company following the acquisition. The company has significant wholesale operations in Portlaoise, Navan and Clonmel, from where it directly supplies over 1,500 independent retail, foodservice and licensed trade customers throughout the midlands, including a network of Gala stores across Meath, Westmeath, Offaly, Laois, Cavan, Monaghan, Tipperary, Kildare and Wexford. The company will continue to trade under the 4 Aces and Better Deal brand names and be run by the existing management team.

“4 Aces Wholesale is an excellent business with a strong reputation for delivering a first-class service to its customers and the management team will make an excellent addition to our business,” said Leo Crawford, Group CEO, BWG Group. “We are delighted that we will be joining the Gala wholesaler network and we look forward to contributing to the continued success of the Gala retailers who are currently well served by 4 Aces.”

Gary Desmond, Gala Retail Group CEO, added: “Gala Retail welcomes BWG to the Gala Group. BWG’s expertise, commitment and investment will help to strengthen the Gala brand as we enter our 20th year in business. The Gala stores that are currently serviced by 4 Aces Wholesale will have continuity in service and supply, and this new arrangement with BWG will have no effect on Gala Retail, with Gala retailers continuing to trade proudly under the Gala name throughout Ireland.”

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News Retailers Wary of Bottle Deposit/Return Scheme RGDATA members are highly supportive of plastic reduction but not a bottle deposit and return scheme. Such was the message recently when RGDATA Director General, Tara Buckley, was before the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment to discuss the Waste Reduction Bill 2017.

Buckley's statement highlights the significant role that local independent shops have played in bringing Ireland's recycling rates from 15% in 1997 to 90% in 2016, with many RGDATA members hosting recycling centres on their sites and proactively working in their stores to follow best practice guidelines, providing staff training on waste management, appointing green champions in their stores and adopting initiatives to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill and to be more efficient in our use of natural resources.

“Many of our members are already trialling initiatives to encourage their customers to use reusable beverage containers,” Buckley said. “The shop owners that RGDATA represents are genuine ‘green grocers’ and take their responsibilities in this area very seriously… Accordingly we are supportive of the general aims and objectives of this Bill.”

RGDATA members are concerned with two elements of the Bill – the banning of non-compostable disposable beverage containers and tableware from 2020 and the introduction of deposit and return schemes for sealed beverage containers from July 2019. In relation to banning non compostable containers and tableware, it is important that consumers and

retailers have ready access to affordable substitutes to the products currently being used typically for food-to-go in shops and other outlets, Buckley argued. “There are concerns within the trade at both the cost and availability of substitutable alternatives which will be available in the numbers likely to meet the anticipated demand,” she said.

RGDATA has “serious reservations” about how the proposed bottle deposit and return scheme will operate. The Director General pointed out that RGDATA members currently pay annual fees of €1,000-€3,500 to Repak, and that a new deposit and return scheme for beverage containers would “undermine the rationale and justification for supporting Repak.. and amount to a form of double compliance with regulatory obligations, with significant extra costs for the smaller retailer”.

There are also concerns that such a scheme would be very expensive to set up and that the design of the scheme would need to take account of the place of sale for particular beverage products, so that a small retailer could find themselves inundated with beverage containers which had been purchased at larger outlets. Buckley also called for clarification of the scope of the scheme to ascertain if it applies to all beverage containers or just those made of plastic.

Irish SMEs Lose €1.7 Billion Annually to Bad Debts IRISH SMEs are losing €13,780, on average, each year due to customer non-payment or insolvency, according to the recent Global Business Monitor published by Bibby Financial Services Ireland, a leading provider of financial support and funding solutions to Irish SMEs. When asked which area is the most problematic in managing their business cashflow, over half (57%) of Irish SMEs cited collecting payment from customers on time. Almost a third of SMEs (32%) suffered from bad debt over the past 12 months. With almost 250,000 SMEs around the country, this equates to a total of €1.7 billion in revenue being lost by Irish businesses every single year.

“It’s shocking that such a large amount is being lost by Irish businesses each year as a result of bad debt,” said Mark O’Rourke, Head of Business with Bibby Financial Services Ireland. “SMEs need to take steps to ensure they don’t fall foul to non-payment such as completing full background checks on all customers before extending credit, diversifying their customer base and ensuring strict payment protocols are enforced.”

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News Retailers Sign Food Waste Charter FIVE of the country’s biggest retail groups have signed the Government’s Food Waste Charter, which commits them to a common and long-term approach to tackling food waste in the sector.

January 25 saw Denis Naughten TD, Minister for Department of Communications Climate Action and Environment (DCCAE), hosting the Retail Action Group as leaders from five major Irish retailers, Tesco Ireland (Andrew Yaxley, CEO), Musgrave (Chris Martin, CEO), Aldi Ireland (Giles Hurley, Group MD), Lidl Ireland (J.P. Scally, MD) and BWG Group (Leo Crawford, CEO) have agreed to make food waste prevention a priority and build awareness of the issue.

The companies have agreed a common methodology for the collection of food waste data within their businesses. This will provide a solid evidence base for prevention measures and monitoring progress in implementing change.

“I believe Ireland can be a world leader in tackling food waste and I would like the retail sector to be part of this,” said Minister Naughten. “I established the Food Waste Action Group in the retail sector last year because the average family throws away €700 worth of food every year in Ireland and half of this discarded food is unused or still in its wrapper. Today is another major step on the road to a more collaborative approach to the prevention of food waste. In signing up to the Food Waste Charter, retailers are showing a willingness to work collectively for the greater good of society by promoting, prioritising and planning for the prevention of food waste in a more collaborative way.”

Pictured are Eamonn Quinn, Chair of the Retail Action Group; Denis Naughten TD, Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment; JP Scally, Managing Director at Lidl Ireland; and Laura Burke, Director General of the EPA. Eamonn Quinn, Chair of the Retail Action Group, welcomed the commitment by retailers to the Food Waste Charter: “Irish food retailing is a hyper-competitive sector, so it is important to recognise the significance of these retailers working together.

I would encourage all Irish retailers and other food businesses to sign the Charter and learn how they too can join the fight against food waste.”

Welcoming the announcement, Iseult Ward, leading food waste expert and FoodCloud CEO, said, “FoodCloud has been an active contributor to the Retail Action Group, advising in the area of measurement methodologies since its establishment,

Iseult Ward, CEO of FoodCloud, pictured at the food distribution's Hub in Tallaght. and therefore, we welcome today’s announcement. As recommended by the Citizen’s Assembly in November, measurement will allow businesses to make smart decisions about how to reduce food waste and take meaningful action.

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12.3 challenges nations, including Ireland, to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030 and the Food Waste Charter will help us to formally identify the key areas where change is needed, and crucially, to make those changes. We look forward to continuing our work with the retailers involved.”

Musgrave CEO, Chris Martin reiterated the company’s commitment “to building sustainable communities and supporting consumers to make better purchasing decisions”.

Sustainability, he said, is “integral to doing the right thing by our people, our communities and our business… We look forward to engaging with the Government on this and other initiatives into the future, as we continue to embed important sustainability principles into our businesses, and to make further positive impact on the communities in which we operate.”

Giles Hurley, Group Managing Director, Aldi Ireland, said: “Aldi is committed to tackling food waste in the retail industry.

For example, through FoodCloud we work with hundreds of charitable groups across the country, providing them with daily donations of surplus food and minimising waste. We have donated over 1m meals to date, helping charities save €1.5m.

We are committed to minimising food waste and have now expanded the FoodCloud programme to all of our 130 stores nationwide, increasing our donations by 60%. Aldi is delighted to support the Food Waste Charter and is looking forward to working with the wider retail industry and the Department to help reduce Ireland’s food waste.”

J.P. Scally, Managing Director at Lidl Ireland, said, “At Lidl Ireland we are extremely proud to be working closely with Minister Denis Naughten and The Retail Action Group for Food Waste. In signing today's Food Waste Charter, we further demonstrate our ongoing commitment to reducing food waste in the Irish retail sector and positively contribute to the communities in which we operate. Last year, Lidl Ireland became a verified member of Bord Bia's Origin Green Programme where food waste, along with 23 additional targets in areas such as waste emissions, energy, water, responsible sourcing of products, health and nutrition and social sustainability, are now key priorities for our business in the coming years. We look forward to working with other retailers across Ireland in prioritising the prevention of food waste.”

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News Supermarkets Get into the Christmas Spirit THE latest grocery market share figures from Kantar Worldpanel in Ireland, for the 12 weeks ending December 31, 2017, Total Take Home Grocery - Ireland Consumer Spend reveal that shoppers spent an extra €90m on groceries over the festive period.

12 Weeks to 01 Jan 2017 12 Weeks to 31 Dec 2017 change** “Over the Christmas period, the %* %* % average household spent a record Total Grocers 100.0% 100.0% 3.6 €1,532 on groceries, an increase of €38 Total Multiples 88.6% 88.9% 3.9 compared to last year,” revealed David SuperValu 22.7% 22.4% 2.0 Berry, Director at Kantar Worldpanel.

Tesco 22.3% 22.8% 5.8 “Much of this increase has been driven by Dunnes 22.7% 23.0% 4.9 staple items, with fruit, vegetables, meat Lidl 11.4% 11.6% 3.8 and poultry posting a combined sales Aldi 10.3% 10.4% 4.8 increase of €28m. Shoppers were also Other Outlets** 11.4% 11.1% 1.0 partial to a Christmas tipple, with sales of alcohol up almost 6% – a boost of €13m. *= Percentage Share of Total Grocers **= Includes stores such as M&S, Boots, Spar, Centra, Greengrocers, Butchers And Cross Border shops Wine was the drink of choice this year, with white wine and red wine sales up an have broken the trend this year. The retailer enjoyed a positive impressive 10% and 12% respectively.” performance over the Christmas period, with market share Among the retailers, Dunnes Stores remained the top rising to 10.4% thanks to sales growth of 4.8%. While Aldi saw Irish supermarket, capturing a market share of 23%, up 0.3 sales rise by 0.9%, this was below the overall market level and percentage points on this time last year, while achieving its led to a slight dip in market share – down 0.3 percentage points strongest sales growth since May 2017, up 4.9%. Dunnes compared to this time last year.”

Stores’ customers remain loyal to the store, with perks such as The trend towards online shopping is showing no signs of the ‘Shop and Save’ campaign encouraging customers to add slowing down. Online grocers experienced impressive sales extra items to their shopping baskets. growth of 24%, which boosted their share of the market to Tesco also performed strongly, achieving its highest sales a record 2.3% over the Christmas period. “Although grocery growth since February 2011, up 5.8%. “The supermarket’s e-commerce shoppers haven’t increased in number, customers impressive growth helped it increase its market share by 0.5 who already shop online have upped the frequency of their percentage points compared to this time last year, and it now purchases with, on average, one extra order placed over this stands at 22.8%,” Berry noted. “SuperValu clocked in sales period,” Berry concluded. growth of 2%, with the grocer encouraging customers to spend Grocery market inflation stands at -0.1% for the 12 week an extra 70 cents every time they shop. period ending 31 December 2017.

“Historically, shoppers have chosen to trade up over the For further information, visit www.kantarworldpanel.com.

Christmas period,” Berry continued. “However, Lidl seems to

Local is Vital: Irish Consumers Actively Choose Homegrown Products decision.

50% of Irish consumers would not “Provenance matters to Irish consumers. knowingly buy meat products that We are increasingly conscious of where our have travelled between 601 and 1,000 food comes from, its quality, and its nutritional miles, and almost 80% would not value and health benefits,” noted John O’Brien, knowingly buy meat products that have Managing Director at O’Brien Fine Foods, owners travelled between 1,001 and 2,000 of the Homebird brand. miles, according to research conducted Homebird published the research findings among 1,000 Irish consumers by Ignite to mark its ‘Food Miles’ campaign, an initiative Research on behalf of Homebird, designed to highlight food origin, the story of Ireland’s newest sliced chicken and Homebird and the low food miles of the brand. turkey brand.

The research found that the majority (56%) of The research revealed that 80% of consumers check the label of meat John O’Brien, Managing Director at Irish consumers believe that for a product to be labelled ‘produced in Ireland’, it should be products that they purchase, with over O’Brien Fine Foods, owners of the both farmed and produced in Ireland. However, half (57%) checking specifically for Homebird brand. according to Safefood, a significant proportion of the country of origin. 56% check if the chicken is in fact imported from farms in mainland Europe and product was produced in Ireland, while almost one fifth check is only produced and packaged in Irish factories. if the product packaging is recyclable.

When asked to rate the importance of factors influencing The Ignite Research found that Irish consumers their food purchasing decisions, 53% of Irish consumers rated overwhelmingly prefer to buy locally sourced meat products, ‘price’ as very important. Freshness and quality ranked higher with 71% of Irish consumers saying it is important to buy than value for money: 69.5% said ‘freshness’ is very important, Irish produce, with the same admitting that a meat product’s and 65% said the same for ‘quality’. country of origin would have an impact on their purchasing

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News Consumer Spending for 2017 Finishes on a High VISA'S Irish Consumer Spending Index, which measures expenditure across all payment types (cash, cheques and electronic payments), pointed to a +4.9% year-on-year increase in spending during December 2017. This followed a +5.1% rise in the previous month, highlighting the continued Philip Konopik, Country expansion of consumer Manager, Ireland, Visa. spending for 10 successive months in 2017.

Household spending in Ireland continued to rise at a solid pace at the end of 2017. Looking at the fourth quarter of the year as a whole, spending was up +3.6% on an annual basis.

This was the strongest rate of expansion seen during 2017. The increase in Irish Consumer Spending for 2017 overall was more modest, with year-on-year growth of +2.5%, compared to 2016.

Data for December signalled a positive Christmas period for retailers on the high street, with face-to-face expenditure up +5.3% year-on-year. Face-to-face spending has now risen in each of the past four months, with December’s growth marking the fastest increase seen since April 2016. It also marked the third successive month where face-to-face spending outperformed growth in eCommerce payments (which saw a solid rise at +3.8%).

Irish households increased their spending on Food & Drink on an annual basis in December, the fourth month running in which a rise has been recorded. At +5.4%, growth was at an eight-month high.

“The December data is another boost for the economy, with a strong finish for the year and positive growth for 2017 overall,” said Philip Konopik, Country Manager, Ireland, Visa. “The increase in Irish consumer spending is reflective of the strides being made in the labour market, with the unemployment rate continuing to fall and average weekly earnings continuing to rise. One particular highlight from our data is the beginning of a recovery for Irish retailers, with face-to-face spending having risen for four consecutive months – showing a +4.1% year-on-year rise for Q4, which we hope marks the start of a trend.”

Obituary: Marie Dowdall IT was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Marie Dowdall recently after a short illness. Marie dedicated over 40 years of her life to Dunnes Stores, working with three generations of the Dunne family. “Those who were lucky enough to work with Marie and those who trained under her will know she was a skilled professional, kind and loyal to Dunnes Stores and to everyone in the company.

Marie was as passionate and driven about the company as she was the first day she started,” read a statement from Frank Dunne, Margaret Heffernan, Anne Heffernan & Sharon McMahon. Retail News would like to express its condolences to Marie’s husband, Kenneth, and son Craig, and all of her extended family.

Aldi Bans Sale of Energy Drinks to Under 16s ALDI Ireland is to restrict the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to anyone under 16 years of age, the first retailer in Ireland to introduce this measure. From March 1, customers buying soft drinks containing more than 150mg of caffeine per litre will be asked to prove their age in all of Aldi’s 130 Irish stores. “We are introducing this age restriction in response to growing concern about the consumption of energy drinks among young people,” revealed Finbar McCarthy, Group Buying Director at Aldi Ireland. All of Aldi’s caffeinated energy drink products will be subject to the agecheck.

ABFI Slams Anti-Business Alcohol Bill ABFI (Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland) has labelled the advertising and labelling measures of the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill as “disproportionate” and “ineffective”, as it goes before the Dáil. Patricia Callan, ABFI Director, called on the Government, in particular, to remove the cancer warning labels from the Bill. “No other country in the world has mandatory cancer labels on ABFI Director, Patricia Callan. alcohol products and we believe that such a measure applies a stigma to products produced in Ireland. It gives a clear advantage to our competitors abroad, who are not required to carry such labels,” she said, noting how “A specific Irish-only label would also result in significant additional costs and logistical difficulties for businesses operating here. This means that products might be withdrawn from the Irish market, or new products might not be introduced.”

Lidl to Open Distribution Centre in Newbridge LIDL has received planning permission for a new distribution centre in Newbridge, Co. Kildare. The 54,000 square metre distribution hub will employ more than 350 people, when complete, including 100 new positions.

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Industry News

BWG Wins Best B2B Award for Shoplink at Eir Spider Awards

BWG Foods was delighted to be named as the best Business to Business IT solution for its recently launched Shoplink platform, a feature rich e-commerce solution, bringing the best of B2C technology to a B2B platform, at the Eir Spider Awards, the longest standing and most prestigious internet awards in Ireland. “A lot of hard work has gone into making Shoplink the best B2B solution for our retailers,” says Chris Donnelly, IT Director, BWG Foods, the mastermind of this project. “Retailers can use Shoplink to place orders 24-7, review the full BWG product range, choose from promotions and avail of deals. In addition, Shoplink is fully integrated with the EPOS system in-store and the BWG warehouses, allowing stores visibility of their own sales and purchase history when making purchasing decisions in Shoplink. It is great to be recognised nationally for our work.” Chris Donnelly is pictured with his team: Fiona Ryan, Emma Gregan and Adrienne McDonald.

Rugby Star Helps Londis to Launch Cycle for Joy LEINSTER and Ireland rugby legend, and Pieta House ambassador, Jack McGrath (pictured) was on hand to help Londis launch Cycle for Joy 2018 in aid of its charity partner Pieta House. This is the third year of this partnership, which has to date raised €200,000 for Pieta House. Following on from the great success of Jump for Joy in 2016 and Climb for Joy in 2017, the retail group are planning a charity cycle for 2018 which will see a group cycle the 43km Greenway from Achill to Westport on May 19 in order to raise more funds for Pieta House. Londis has also pledged to donate 1c to Pieta House every time a customer buys selected Londis own brand products.

Musgrave Celebrates Everyday Heroes THE second annual Musgrave Everyday Hero awards were celebrated at a gala dinner recently, giving colleagues throughout the diverse Musgrave network an opportunity to nominate someone who they feel brings the Musgrave brand values to life every day. “As Ireland’s largest private sector employer, our colleagues are incredibly important to us and the future success of our business,” noted Chris Martin, Musgrave CEO. “These awards were established to recognise colleagues who bring our values to life every day, so I am delighted to be in a position to acknowledge the efforts of this year’s recipients.” Pictured at the gala dinner are Musgrave’s Everyday Heroes with Matt O’Callaghan, HR Director, Musgrave (far left), and Chris Martin, CEO, Musgrave, (far right).

Coca-Cola HBC Employees

Raise Stg£30k for Charity

EMPLOYEES at Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland have spent the last year raising vital funds for its charity partners, MacMillan Cancer Support and the Simon Community. In the second year of partnership with both charities, employees based across Lisburn, Dublin, Cork, Tipperary and Tuam contributed to the success of the fundraising efforts, which were then matched by the business. In total, €72,600 / £65,300 has been donated to the charities over the last two years, with £30,000 / €34,000 raised in 2017 alone.

Pictured with the famous Coca-Cola Christmas Truck are (l-r): Caoimhe O’Connell and Fionn Faherty from Dublin Simon Community; Barry O’Donovan; Matthieu Seguin, and Persida Mocan from Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland; and Joanne Young and Emma Ewings from MacMillan Cancer Support.

Tesco Launch Vegan Ready Meals TESCO has partnered with pioneering chef, Derek Sarno, to create ‘Wicked Kitchen’, a new range of irresistible meals that celebrate everything that’s ‘wicked’ and tasty about plants. Prepared exclusively for Tesco, the new range has launched in approximately 75 stores across Ireland. As former senior global chef at Whole Foods Market, Derek has created dishes that make it easier than ever for people to eat more plants, including Muay Thai Red Curry, Nana’s Mushroom Bolognese, Chana Masala and Gunpowder Potato and Caponata Sourdough pizza. The exclusive range includes seven ready meals perfect for lunch or dinner, priced at €5 per unit.

Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie|9

Industry News

EU Programme Joins With FoodCloud Hubs SOCIAL enterprise FoodCloud Hubs and the Department of Employment Affairs & Social Protection are working together to provide €3m of food to 60,000 of the most marginalised people in Irish society under an EU programme called FEAD (Fund for European Aid to the Most Deprived). This is not surplus food, but procured food, as FoodCloud Hubs evolves to now procuring and storing food for those in need. Through FEAD, FoodCloud Hubs are responsible for procurement, storage and distribution of the non-perishable goods, such as breakfast cereals, porridge, soups, pasta and rice, canned vegetables among others. The foodstuffs are then provided to eligible organisations based on a regular, specified food collection schedule. Pictured are Eimear Delahunty, FoodCloud Hubs, and Ireland South MEP Deirdre Clune, as they tour the EUfunded FEAD Programme warehouse in Little Island, Cork.

Flahavan’s New TV Campaign FLAHAVAN’S is kicking off the New Year with a brand-new TV advertising campaign, the first ever TV commercial to be filmed at the Flahavan’s Mill in Kilmacthomas, Co. Waterford. The new campaign, entitled ‘Not Your Run of The Mill Oats', highlights the quality difference of Flahavan’s porridge and its distinctive rich creamy taste versus other oat products on the market. The commercial is delivered in a tongue-in-cheek style to showcase what is different about Flahavan’s unique milling techniques, continually refined and upgraded through seven generations of the Flahavan family. The heavy weight campaign will feature a 40 second TV commercial, supported by a 10 second teaser, as well as radio, outdoor, PR and digital strategies.

Musgrave Donates €35k to Cork Penny Dinners

THE Musgrave Triathlon Committee recently donated a cheque for €35,000 to food charity, Cork Penny Dinners.

Musgrave’s Triathlon fundraising event raised a total of €205,000 for charities this year, €35,000 was also donated to children’s ambulance service Bumbleance, €35,000 to Pieta House and €100,000 to Breakthrough Cancer Research. Cork Penny Dinners, which was established during the Famine as a soup kitchen, feeds approximately 200 people every day and serves 1,000 meals a week, compared to just 150 meals a few years ago. Edel Bruton and Brenda Fitzgerald from Musgrave are pictured presenting the cheque for €35,000 to Caitriona Twomey from Cork Penny Dinners, with celebrity chef Kevin Dundon.

Keelings Cycle for Pieta House

XL and Ros na Rún Get Creative

THE winners of the Nationwide XL Stores Creative Writing Competition in association with TG4’s Ros na Rún have been announced.

The Creative Writing Competition 'as Gaeilge' was open to primary and secondary school children in the Republic of Ireland between the ages of 7 and 16 years. 11-year-old Callum Ó Gallachóir from Gaelscoil Chluain Meala, in Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, was the winner of the primary school entry and 16-year-old Kevin Foley, Gaelcholáiste Chéitinn, also from Clonmel, won the secondary school prize. Callum has won a €200 Eason’s Voucher for himself and a €500 Eason’s voucher for his school, while Kevin has won a three-week Gaeltacht trip during the summer of 2018. The two winners are pictured with James Scanlon, XL Retail Development Manager; and XL store owner, Brian Connolly, XL Prior Park Service Station Clonmel.

KEELINGS was pleased to raise awareness for Pieta House with a Cyclothon at Dundrum Town Centre recently. To celebrate Januberry, volunteers from Keelings and Pieta House cycled on stationary bikes to raise awareness and generate funds for the charity. “We wanted to support a charity that helps people with mental health issues. Keelings encourages people to have a healthy lifestyle and that encompasses mental health. Since 2006, Pieta House has helped over 30,000 people in crisis so we’re delighted to help this incredibly important charity,” said David Keeling, Managing Director of Keelings Retail, pictured on the bikes with Brian Higgins, CEO of Pieta House, while Penny Breen, 7, from Kimmage samples the strawberries.

10|Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie

Industry News Spar Launch FAI Primary School 5s Programme FORMER Republic of Ireland international Keith Andrews and current Republic of Ireland women’s international Megan Campbell were on hand recently to launch the Spar FAI Primary School 5s Programme with a pop-up training session at Keith’s former primary school, Scoil Mhuire CBS, Dublin. The five-aside school blitzes are open to boys and girls from 4th, 5th and 6th class, and puts emphasis on fun and inclusivity. Spar and the FAI are looking to surpass 2017 participation figures, which saw 1,495 schools and 28,576 children lace up their boots to take to pitches around the country. Keith Andrews and Megan Campbell are pictured with Spar Sales Director, Colin Donnelly, and pupils from Scoil Mhuire CBS and St Vincent de Paul’s Girls NS, at Scoil Mhuire CBS, Clontarf, Dublin.

Bright Ideas from Solus IRISH light bulb company Solus are renowned for bright ideas and innovative marketing initiatives to continuously support the brand and keep it front-of-mind. Consumer led strategies such as the ‘Mood Temperature Gauge’ in January, ‘The Search for the Brightest at Bloom’ in June and the ‘Brightest Boots’ at the National Ploughing Championships’ in September yield strong customer engagement and media coverage. The new Solus Retail Experience displays predict and answer user’s questions in a simple friendly way. The customer is brought on a journey with clear visuals and descriptions from Halogen and LED to the new premium Solus XCross Filament LED range. The interactive ‘try me’ station is a pioneering move and a first for the lighting sector as customers can see exactly what the bulb looks like when lit in a familiar room setting. Stores that have installed the new Solus concept displays are already seeing growth of 53% in sales in the first year.

Nomad Foods to Acquire Goodfella’s Pizza NOMAD Foods Limited has entered into an agreement to acquire Green Isle Foods Ltd (“Goodfella’s Pizza”) from Two Sisters Food Group, a subsidiary of Boparan Holdings Ltd. for approximately €225m on a debt free, cash free basis. The Goodfella’s brand was founded in 1993 and holds number one and number two market share positions within the frozen pizza category in Ireland and the United Kingdom, respectively. The acquisition also includes the San Marco brand. “The acquisition of Goodfella’s Pizza comes at an exciting time for our company,” said Stefan Descheemaeker, Nomad Foods CEO. “Goodfella’s Pizza creates a new and exciting growth avenue into frozen pizza, a strategic category that is both sizable and complementary.”

Paul O’Connell Stars in Aldi Ad

FORMER Ireland, British & Irish Lions and Munster captain Paul O’Connell is the star of Aldi’s latest campaign to drive awareness of and increase participation in Aldi Play Rugby, an IRFU initiative that inspires school children to get active, take part in regular exercise and to eat healthily.

As official supermarket of the IRFU, Aldi brought Paul back to his primary school, An Mhodscoil, O’Connell Avenue in Limerick, to surprise pupils and teachers alike. Created by Sweet, the 40 second advert sees Paul walking the corridors of his former school where he first discovered rugby, being cheered on by pupils in the playground, and passionately speaking about the Aldi Play Rugby programme.“It was a real thrill heading back to my old primary school, An Mhodscoil, to film this new ad for Aldi,” said Paul. “The Aldi Play Rugby programme is free to join and my old school was actually the 1,100th member to sign up! It provides boys and girls all over Ireland with the support and equipment they need to get active and stay healthy!”

Iceland Cuts the Plastic

ICELAND has announced its commitment to the environment by becoming the first major retailer globally to eliminate plastic packaging from all own brand products by the end of 2023. The process starts now and Iceland is challenging itself to complete this within the next five years and came as Iceland opened its 20th store in Ireland, in Ballincollig, Co. Cork. “At Iceland, we are passionate about environmental matters, sustainability and helping to effect change,” noted Ron Metcalfe, Managing Director of Iceland Ireland (pictured). "Customers are relying on retailers to deliver meaningful change and we urge other supermarkets and the retail industry as a whole to follow suit in 2018."

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12|Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie

Market Overview

2017: The Struggles for Market Share

David Berry, Director at Kantar Worldpanel, looks back over the Irish grocery market in 2017, revealing the winners and losers and the trends that shaped the FMCG sector.

(Graph 1) Share of total grocery spend by retailer.

Tesco

Dunnes

Others

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IF you cast your eye back over 2017, at Retailer Share of Total Grocery spend %, 52 w/e 31 Dec 2017, 12 w/e 31 Dec 2017 first glance it may seem that the year has been an easy ride for the grocery 22.3 22.4 22.2 23 22 22.8 sector. Valued at €10.49 billion, up 2.5% year on year, the market remains in good health. SuperValu, Dunnes Stores and 11.3 10.4 11.2 10.3 11 11.1 Tesco are still jostling for position to be crowned Ireland’s largest supermarket, while Aldi and Lidl continue to make their mark, together holding just over one fifth of the market by the end of the year.

Tesco SuperValu Dunnes Aldi Lidl Others Despite continued growth, the (Graph 1) Share of total grocery spend by retailer. grocery market is being forced to fend off challenges on all fronts. A turbulent political climate elsewhere has favoured Retailer Share of Total Grocery spend A Dec Record the euro, knocking the market into %, 52 w/e 31 and spent the majority of 2017 as 2017,High 12 w/e 31 Dec 2017 The year began with a record-breaking deflation, which, while good news for Ireland’s largest supermarket. From 23 22.8 22.3 22.4 22.2 22 high. Festive spirit cheered shoppers shoppers, can prove challenging for March to September, the grocer retained into spending an additional €92m over retailers. Shifting consumer habits are the lead, but despite reaching a market 2016’s Christmas period: 3.8% more upsetting traditional business models share high of 22.8% in April 2017 and than the year before. SuperValu began and online shopping is gathering 11.2 10.3 never11.3 falling below 11 22%,11.1 SuperValu was 10.4 the year in pole position, following a momentum, now a crucial part of any unable to pull decisively away from the (Graph 2) Percentage of holiday Sales onperiod Promotion. particularly successful retailer’s arsenal. competition.

Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie|13

Market Overview

(Graph 1) Share of total grocery spend by retailer.

Retailer Share of Total Grocery spend %, 52 w/e 31 Dec 2017, 12 w/e 31 Dec 2017

Although e-commerce doesn’t look set to overtake bricks and mortar in the long 23 22.8 22.3 22.4 that22.2 22 it’s term, still important retailers keep up the momentum online.

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of spending was on promotion, this proved to be a year of tight competition. figure has since dipped to a five-year At times separated by no more than David Berry, Director at Kantar 11.2 11 11.1 low,10.3 to stand11.3 at 30.2% 0.1 percentage point, 2017 saw the big 10.4 in 2017.

Worldpanel.

In a move to imitate the successful three increasingly fight over a shrinking retail models of Aldi and Lidl, grocers slice of the pie. Beginning the year with have altered their business strategies, a combined market share of 20.9%, Aldi Dunnes Stores remained hot on placing less of an emphasis on and Lidl together achieved a 23.5% high SuperValu’s heels, having claimed the promotions andLidl focusing instead on in July 2017.

Tesco

SuperValu Dunnes Aldi

Others top spot for the first time ever during everyday low pricing.

Aldi and Lidl’s unique business 2016. The run-up to Christmas 2017 models have challenged the traditional saw the retailer capitalise on its historic Deflation approach to grocery retail. By choosing success of performing well over the In March, the Irish grocery sector not to employ discounting strategies and festive period to overtake SuperValu and dropped into deflation for the first time instead ensuring that the first price is clinch first position three months in a in almost two years. Following the UK’s the right price, the supermarkets posed row.

(Graph 1) Share total grocery spend by retailer. decision to begin Brexit negotiations, a realofchallenge to SuperValu, Dunnes With a dedicated following of the subsequent political uncertainty Stores and Tesco. shoppers that remain loyal to the weakened the pound, resulting in a Retailer Share of Total Grocery spend supermarket’s ‘Shop and Save’ %, 52 w/e 31 Dec 2017, 12 w/e 31 Dec 2017 welcome reprieve for Irish shoppers’ Promotions campaign, Dunnes Stores remains the 23 bank balances as prices dropped, due to 2017 also saw22.4 Irish grocery 22.3 22.2 retailers 22 22.8 number one choice for families with (Graph 2) their Percentage of Salesactivity. on Promotion. cheaper UK imports. rein in promotional After children. Over the past three years, Despite price deflation, the grocery discounting peaked in 2015, when 34.4% the grocer has managed to attract an additional €162m from families. Of 11.3 10.4 11.2 10.3 11 11.1 that, 94% has come from shops larger % of Sales on Promotion than €100, which qualifies customers for €20 off their next shop. Ending the 34.4 year with its highest 12-week market 33.8 share of 23%, and as Ireland’s largest 33.7 Tesco SuperValu Dunnes Aldi

Lidl Others supermarket, the retailer looks in a good position to replicate this success in 2018.

Meanwhile, Tesco experienced very 31.4 strong sales growth in 2017: December saw its strongest performance since 30.2 February 2011, up 5.8%. In fact, the supermarket achieved sales growth of more than 4% five months in a row and ended the year with a market share 52 w/e 05 Jan 14 52 w/e 04 Jan 15 52 w/e 03 Jan 16 52 w/e 01 Jan 17 52 w/e 31 Dec 17 increase of 0.4 percentage points year on year. With SuperValu, Dunnes Stores and (Graph 2) Percentage of Sales on Promotion.

Tesco all fighting for the top spot, 2017

14|Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie

Market Overview market remained in growth for the whole of 2017. Fuller wallets translated into larger shopping baskets, but while willing to up the size of their shops, consumers didn’t throw caution to the wind entirely. Retailers’ own-label products continued to experience rapid sales growth and by the end of the year accounted for 53.5% of grocery purchases as supermarkets expanded their offers.

Health Irish retailers have also had to stay sensitive and flexible to consumers’ taste buds and health concerns, as well as their spending preferences.

Irish shoppers are becoming more conscious of the pivotal role food plays in Despite price deflation, the grocery market remained in growth for the whole of maintaining a healthy lifestyle: over two 2017, as fuller wallets translated into larger shopping baskets. thirds are concerned about sugar, and needs 3) willFresh prove key tosales supermarkets’ Looking Ahead to 2018 (Graph produce are on the rise. nearly 60% are actively trying to up their success, focusing investment on new There’s no doubt that in 2018, the intake of vitamins and minerals. product development in the right areas Irish grocery market is going to be With plant-based diets, such and ultimately giving the customer unpredictable. Inflation will remain as veganism, vegetarianism and what they want. dependent on external events and, flexitarianism hitting the news and with the political climate remaining health issues remaining at the fore, Online Shopping as volatile as ever, supermarkets will retailers have seen a €32m increase Valued at €236.4m a year, online need to retain the ability to adapt their year year in sales of sales fresh produce.

(Graph 3)onFresh produce are on the rise. shopping has grown an impressive strategies at the drop of a hat.

To stay relevant, grocers need to think 131.6% over the past five years.

The number one priority for creatively. In August 2017, Lidl launched In the 12 weeks to December 31, supermarkets will remain the customer. its new Healthy Co. line, which includes 2017, the online sector boosted If 2017 has taught supermarkets chickpea pasta and organic coconut its share of the market to 2.3% anything, it’s that to stay on top, they and experienced impressive sales must remain sensitive to consumer growth of 24%. Despite this rapid preferences, picking up on trends as rise, the number of new customers they emerge and reacting with new engaging with e-commerce is starting products that fit these criteria. to slow. Growth has been driven In line with our fast-paced lives, instead by increased spend from the health and convenience of products existing shoppers rather than by new look set to remain important, so grocers customers entering the will need to keep this in mind when (Graph 3) Fresh produce sales are ononline the rise.world.

Although e-commerce doesn’t look developing new lines. Additionally, if set to overtake bricks and mortar the market returns to inflation and in the long term, it’s still important consumer confidence falls, retailers will that retailers keep up the momentum have a new set of challenges to contend (Graph 4) Percentage of shoppers buying online. online. with.

Percentage of Shoppers buying online Penetration (%), Value Sales (€000)

18.8

250000

Graph 3) Fresh produce sales are on the rise.

18.7

18

200000

Percentage of Shoppers buying online Penetration (%), Value Sales (€000)

16

235,009

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oil, to give health-conscious shoppers 13.6 an affordable way to access healthy 150000 9.8 alternatives. SuperValu also recently 9.1 introduced its Good Food Karma and 100000 Let’s Get Ireland Cooking campaigns, which encourage families to cook buying from online.

(Graph 4) Percentage of shoppers 50000 scratch.

Products that are convenient and quick to prepare also driving sales Percentage of were Shoppers buying online 0 52 w/e 05 Jan 14 52 w/e 04 Jan 15 52 w/e 03 Jan 16 52 w/e 01 Jan 17 52 w/e 31 Dec 17 Penetration (%), Value throughout 2017,Sales with (€000) frozen food and chilled convenience meals experiencing Sales (€000s) Penetration (%) growth of 6.3% and 5.3% respectively.

18.8 250000 20 18.7 Remaining responsive to shoppers’ (Graph 4) Percentage of shoppers buying online.

18 200000

20 16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0

About us

“Musgrave MarketPlace is Irelands leading Foodservice Wholesaler. With a nationwide distribution solution and a range of over 18,000 products covering fresh, frozen, ambient, nonfood and alcohol.

At Musgrave MarketPlace our customer is our priority and we have a number of ways that you can buy from us including our 7 MarketPlace branches nationwide in Ballymun, Robinhood, Sallynoggin, Galway, Limerick, Waterford and Cork. Our Food Emporiums in Ballymun and Robinhood branches have an onsite butchers and fishmongers and offer customers a bespoke butchery and fishmonger service for delivery or collection. You can also order online or by calling telesales.”

From our Customer Oliver Byrne is the culinary director of The Press Up Entertainment Group. “The right combination of quality, and value as well as the consistency of products supplied by Musgrave MarketPlace is key for me and the group, add this to the 6 day service, and excellent relationships forged between the sales team and our chef’s, I would highly recommend Musgrave MarketPlace.” The Press Up Entertainment Group buys a range of products from Musgrave MarketPlace, including fresh meat, frozen, ambient non-food and alcohol.

Derry Belfast Lurgan

Ballymun / Head Office Galway

Robinhood Sallynoggin

Limerick Waterford

Telesales: 01 5229212 mfs.telesale@musgrave.ie

@MusgraveMPlace

Musgrave MarketPlace

Musgrave MarketPlace

Cork

Musgrave MarketPlace

Musgrave MarketPlace

www.musgravemarketplace.ie

16|Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie

The Retail News Interview

Appealing to Your Better Nature John Moane, Managing Director of BWG’s Wholesale Division, is the 2018 Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund President of Appeals. He discusses the continued importance of the Fund, the challenge of attracting new blood and what he hopes to achieve during his tenure as President.

John Moane, Managing Director of BWG’s Wholesale Division, and IGBF President of Appeals for 2018.

WHEN John Moane was asked to step up to the plate as Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund President of Appeals, he didn’t think twice about it. “It’s something that you would never consider turning down because it’s a fantastic organisation that does unbelievable work,” he explains.

The Managing Director of BWG’s Wholesale Division does admit to some nerves at the thought of taking on the role, however. “If you look back at the IGBF over a number of years and see the work that’s been done and the list of past Presidents, you think first of all that it’s a great honour to be asked but you realise that you are following a very distinguished roll of honour. My commitment is to do the best that I possibly can, to keep the momentum behind the Fund and to make sure that I pass it on to the next President in rude good health.”

A stalwart in BWG Foods for 18 years, Moane has been to a fair amount of IGBF events over the years, but since taking up the mantle of President, he has been overwhelmed by the amount of work by the various committees across the country that goes into ensuring the IGBF events run seamlessly.

“When you’re not involved in organising an event, I suppose it’s easy to go along without really taking on board everything that goes into the organisation, the commitment of the people involved and even what the event is actually funding,” he admits. “That is something that I am getting a much better insight into: what happens to make the events as successful as they are and the activity of the Fund itself, and how it supports colleagues and people in the trade who have fallen on hard times.”

Promotion Versus Privacy: A Key Concern Promoting the work of the Fund has

Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie|17

The Retail News Interview “When it comes to the IGBF, you have to leave that competitive edge out of the room and realise that this is for a common good,” Moane explains.

“When you see the full trade working together, as you do at some of the events, it is very powerful. Ours is a very competitive industry at all levels, but we all face common challenges, and it’s nice to be able to meet other people from the trade, including competitors, to share stories and to have the IGBF as a common goal, is wonderful.”

Fitting into the New CSR Landscape While the increased importance of Corporate Social Responsibility in recent years means that many big companies have official charity partners, there is still room for the IGBF in the overall CSR landscape, Moane insists: “Most

“ New events like the Grocers Fun Run, introduced in 2017, have proved hugely successful at broadening the appeal of the IGBF. The next Grocers Fun Run takes place on April 8 in the Phoenix Park, Dublin. See www.thegrocersfunrun.com. always proven difficult. While it is important that the wider grocery industry understands the Fund, what it does and why it is important, the IGBF has always respected the privacy of the 250-plus families and 500 individuals it helps, which remains a fundamental tenet of the organisation.

“The Fund is helping a lot of people, supplementing and making a difference to families and individuals across the country and it is very discreet in terms of the people it supports,” Moane muses.

“In terms of raising the profile and the funding, the IGBF has to be very open, energetic and maybe a little less discreet about the need for people in the trade and those associated with the industry to support it. At the end of the day, ours is an industry that reaches into every town, village and community. It is a huge employer and it’s very visible in every single community.”

The FMCG sector is unique in that it is arguably the only such industry with its own charity, looking after those within that trade who have fallen on hard times.

“What’s wonderful about the IGBF is that it is unique,” the President of Appeals

avows. “When people participate in the IGBF, whether it’s voluntarily giving up their time, supporting events, making donations, incorporating the IGBF into their normal business activities, the enthusiasm is fantastic.”

The President of Appeals is aiming to match the commitment of the volunteers nationwide by attending as many of the events taking place across the country as is humanly possible. “Part of the role of the President is to support the fund-raising in the best possible way you can, including showing support for the events around the country by attending them, and also to influence and put your own energy into fund-raising directly, encouraging people to support the Fund, without putting the strong arm on people.

I want to convince people that this is a very worthwhile cause and it should be part of any company’s ongoing activity to support the Fund.”

Another extraordinary fact about the IGBF is that many of the companies and individuals who support the Fund in a unified manner usually compete very strongly with each other on a day-to-day basis.

While the economy is improving, there are an awful lot of people in this industry who don’t make a huge amount of money so therefore, when something unexpected happens, it can push people into financial difficulty quite quickly. So I don’t see the need for the Fund reducing: I think the need will always be there.

”

companies have a number of different activities they participate in and support, and we would see the IGBF being part of that. My own company, BWG Foods, for example, supports a range of different organisations and activities throughout the year, including the IGBF. Supporting the IGBF has the added benefit of companies being able to support individuals from within our own industry, which is an extra attraction.”

With an improving economy and rising employment rates, is the Fund still as important as it has been historically, particularly in recessionary times?

“Absolutely,” Moane stresses.

“During the recent recession, the Fund ran at a deficit, which was a huge challenge for a few years. Thankfully, in recent years, it is back to a surplus. But

18|Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie

The Retail News Interview the need is still very much there. Ours is a big industry, across so many different sectors, so many different communities, that there are always cases who need to be supported. For whatever the reason, individuals and families will always find themselves in difficult circumstances – it could be down to health reasons or financial reasons. While the economy is improving, there are an awful lot of people in this industry who don’t make a huge amount of money so therefore, when something unexpected happens, it can push people into financial difficulty quite quickly. So I don’t see the need for the Fund reducing: I think the need will always be there. If we were of the mindset that the need will not be there as the economy grows, I think we wouldn’t be in touch with the real need.”

The Challenges Ahead Getting new blood on to the IGBF committees across the country has been an aim of the Fund in recent years and remains so today. “It’s challenging,” Moane admits. “What is fantastic about the IGBF is that aside from one paid part-time position, everything else is done on a voluntary basis, and that’s unique: pretty much every cent that comes into the Fund goes out to those in need. The result, however, is that there is a heavy load falling on a relatively small number of people, with perhaps 100 people putting a lot of time into the regional committees, with additional people pulled in for the organisation of events.

“There are more people participating in this industry than ever before, so the challenge is to spread the load from people who have put a huge amount of time and effort into the industry in recent years,” he continues.

“But I’m optimistic on that front. We have seen the introduction of some fantastic new events in recent years, that have a broader or a different appeal. Embracing and developing those events is bringing new people into the IGBF net and raising the profile of the Fund.”

He feels that the ability to communicate directly with an audience is so much easier now than it has been in the past, and perhaps the Fund needs to “leverage those opportunities, whether through social media channels or an email campaign to communicate with people and get them to participate in the IGBF. That’s in no way to detract from the fantastic work that has been done and continues to be done by the existing committees and forms the bedrock of the Fund.”

What more can retailers and suppliers do to help? If they can’t

“

The key to introducing a new event is that it doesn’t take from the events already in the

calendar, that it adds to the Fund and doesn’t merely dilute the support already there, so that is a

”

challenge for us.

contribute financially, they can give of their time, Moane notes. But when it comes to money, no donation is too small, he stresses: “Take the Grocers Fun Run, for example: the cost of accessing it is reasonably modest and we would encourage retailers to support and participate in that. Participation in terms of time and spirit is equally as important as financial contributions.”

He’s keen to point out that attending IGBF events also provides some valuable networking opportunities for individuals and companies: “There are less opportunities for face-to-face networking these days, so the IGBF events’ value in this area shouldn’t be ignored. The new events, in particular, provide networking opportunities in a different environment.”

One of the bigger challenges for the IGBF in recent years has been getting the discounters, Aldi and Lidl, involved in the Fund, a subject the incoming

IGBF Events Calendar Some of the forthcoming IGBF events include: April 8

The Grocers Fun Run, Phoenix Park, Dublin Entry fees: 5k or 10k - €25; Kids (including medal and goodie bag) - €10; Family of 4 (four goodie bags, two adult tee shirts, four medals) - €50; Corporate rate: €350 for 15 people.

For more, see www.thegrocersfunrun.com or email info@popupraces.ie.

May 25

Today’s Women In Grocery (TWIG) Lunch, Intercontinental Hotel, Dublin. To book, contact Roisin Higgins in Hotel Solutions, roisin@hotel-solutions.ie.

May 31

Dublin Golf Outing, Palmerstown House.

For more information, see www.igbf.ie.

June 11

North West Region Golf Outing, Westport Golf Club.

June 21

South Eastern Region Golf Outing, Waterford Castle.

July 12

Musgrave Golf Outing, Mount Juliet Golf Club, Kilkenny.

August 22

North East Region Golf Outing, Ballymascanlon House Hotel & Golf Links, Dundalk, Co. Louth.

August 31

IGBF Sports Lunch, Aviva Stadium, Dublin.

September 6

Western Region Golf Outing, Galway Bay Golf Club.

September 21

Stonehouse Golf Outing, Kileen Castle, Co. Meath.

October (Date tbc)

President’s Ball, Intercontinental Hotel, Dublin 4.

December 7

IGBF Grocers Lunch, Clayton Hotel, Dublin.

Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie|19

The Retail News Interview dedicate the time and get the day job done. This is a very demanding industry, but once I prioritise that, I should be OK. I’m lucky that my job as MD of BWG’s Wholesale Division takes me around the country a lot, so I will attend some of the regional events while I’m in that part of the country with the day-job. When I took on the role of President of Appeals, that is the commitment I made and I’ll make it work. I am honoured to take on this role and I am looking forward to working with everybody who is involved to ensure that we build on the fantastic success of the IGBF.”

First Female Vice Chair of IGBF Named

Pictured are (l-r): IGBF Chairman, Donal O’Shea, and John Moane, President of Appeals.

President is keen to address: “Last year for the first time, Lidl participated by supporting the TWIG event, which is a very welcome and positive development, given the presence they have in the marketplace and the number of employees they have. I would be optimistic that we will see more support this year, along with perhaps some other new format retailers who are operating in the Irish market.”

The Role of the President As to his own tenure, Moane sees his role for the year as being threefold.

“Firstly, I want to maximise the fundraising potential of the events already hardwired into the IGBF programme, including the Southern Region Ball, the Limerick Ball, the Grocers Run, the sports lunch, the President’s Ball, the Grocers Lunch and the golf outings.

“I also want to raise the profile of the IGBF, to reach out to some potential participants that haven’t been involved in the Fund before,” he continues.

Thirdly, he’s planning to introduce at least one more major event into the IGBF calendar. “Events like the Grocers Fun Run, the TWIG networking lunch and the sports lunch have all been successfully introduced in recent years and there is room for maybe another one or two,” he

admits, although he remains steadfastly tight-lipped as to the details of what he has in store, but he hopes to be able to reveal all within the next month.

“The key to introducing a new event is that it doesn’t take from the events already in the calendar,” he warns. “That it adds to the Fund and doesn’t merely dilute the support already there, so that is a challenge for us.”

Maintaining a Disciplined Diary When we spoke, Moane was only a few weeks into the year-long job of President of Appeals, but he doesn’t foresee too many problems with juggling the IGBF role with the day-job, once he’s organised.

“I’m lucky in the sense that BWG has been heavily involved in the IGBF over many years – Leo [Crawford, BWG Group CEO] and Willie [O’Byrne, BWG Foods MD] are ex-Presidents, Frances Higgins [Head of Promotions, BWG Foods, and Vice Chair of IGBF] has been a big driving force behind TWIG, and Joe Wogan [Trading Manager BWG Foods] is a big driving force behind the Grocers Fun Run, so there are a number of people within BWG who are a great help and support. But I have to be disciplined with my diary because it can fill very quickly.

“There is a discipline to ensure I

FRANCES Higgins, BWG Foods’ Head of Promotions, has been named as the first female Vice Chair of the IGBF. A Today’s Women In Grocery (TWIG) committee member, Higgins has been heavily involved with the IGBF over many years.

Her appointment has been warmly welcomed by the current President of Appeals: “Frances has put so much work into TWIG and into the IGBF over the years, she is one of the unsung heroes of the Fund. Being named Vice Chair is a wonderful achievement.”

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Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie|21

Food Trends

What’s Hot for 2018?

Dr Deirdre Moriarty, food trends expert at Musgrave MarketPlace, on the five key trends and ingredients this year.

MUCH like fashion, trends come and go in the food industry. Quinoa, almond milk, kale and avocados, all relatively unknown foods a few years ago, now feature in many shopping baskets, while gluten free and lactose free options are becoming more popular on Irish restaurant menus.

So what new ingredients or trends can we expect to see in the Irish food industry in 2018? Food trends expert at Musgrave MarketPlace, Dr Deirdre Moriarty has put together a list of the five key trends and ingredients we can expect to see coming to a restaurant or bar near you this year.

Breakfast anytime is set to become a key food trend in 2018.

1. The Comeback Carb The last number of years have been dominated by protein packed eating, but carbs are the comeback kid of 2018. Having fallen out of favour, thanks to diets such as Atkins and Paleo, this year, pasta and breads will be making a return to our plates. We can expect to see more restaurants experimenting with bread flavours, as artisanal breads become a more popular option.

2. Waste not, want not: the rise of root to tip cooking Food waste and sustainability was a hot topic in 2017 and it’s set to continue throughout 2018 as chefs look at ways to reduce waste. Root to tip cooking is the practice of using

every part of the vegetable and is actually an old trend which has become popular again. Historically, all parts of the vegetable were used and 2018 will see this style of cooking come back in vogue.

Leftover carrot tops can be made into pesto, leek tops and the outer leaves of romaine lettuce can be used to create stocks and soups, while leftover broccoli stalks can be added to salads.

3. Flower Power This year is set to be a floral affair as chefs, baristas and mixologists ‘say it with flowers’. Whether it’s adding whole flowers and petals to dishes, or infusing the likes of elderflower into cocktails, there will be no escaping this trend.

It’s not just chefs and mixologists

embracing flowers, coffee will also have a floral tribute, so expect to see lavender lattes making their way on to your local coffee shop menu.

4. Turn to the Dark Side Say goodbye to rainbows and unicorn themed food, and be prepared to embrace the dark side in 2018 thanks to activated charcoal. A bi-product of burning coconut shells, wood, or other plant materials, it is safe to eat and is responsible for giving food its dark colour. It’s being used in everything from ice cream cones to hamburgers and this eye-catching trend has been popping up on Instagram over the last number of months.

5. Breakfast Anytime Over the last number of years, brunch as a meal occasion has been embraced with gusto in the Irish market, with high end and causal eateries alike offering brunch menus. This year the breakfast trend will continue but as an eating occasion and we can expect to see breakfast extend in to the evening time as restaurants begin to offer this option as an all-day item on the menu. Chefs will also experiment with breakfast options as they take influence from breakfast foods from around the world.

22|Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie

Retail Ireland: Monthly Update PUBLIC HEALTH (ALCOHOL) BILL PASSED BY SEANAD ÉIREANN IN December, Seanad Éireann passed the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill. The Bill aims to ensure the supply and price of alcohol is regulated and controlled to minimise the possibility and incidence of alcohol related harm.

On behalf of members, Retail Ireland has closely followed the debate around the proposed changes to the sale of alcohol in retail outlets and engaged with a variety of stakeholders, including Senators, to highlight our concerns at previous drafts. The Bill proposes to introduce a legal requirement for the separation of alcohol products in mixed trading outlets and as currently drafted, makes it an offence to sell alcohol where the label does not bear a health warning about alcohol, its ingredients, calories and links to cancer.

products and advertisements for alcohol products will not be visible when the unit is closed, and the unit shall remain closed when not in use.

Under the Bill, as currently composed, it shall be an offence to sell alcohol to a person in the State, where the label does not include:

• •

As agreed in December, retailers will have three options to separate alcohol, these include

•

•

•

•

•

Separating alcohol products from all other grocery products behind a physical barrier of at least 1.2m in height and through which alcohol and advertisements for alcohol products are not visible; One point of sale area in the premises that may indicate it contains alcohol products but shall not contain advertisements for alcohol, shall not be accessible or visible to members of the public when closed and which shall remain closed when not in use; The placing of alcohol in standalone cabinets, where it must not be visible up to a height of 1.5m, and displaying alcohol in no more than three units in a store. Alcohol

•

• a warning that is intended to inform the public of the danger of alcohol consumption; a warning that is intended to inform the public of the danger of alcohol consumption when pregnant; a warning that is intended to inform the public of the direct link between alcohol and fatal cancers; the quantity in grams of alcohol contained in the container concerned; the energy value expressed in kilojoules and kilocalories contained in the container concerned; details of a website, to be established and maintained by the Executive, providing public health information in relation to alcohol consumption.

The Bill also includes measures governing the sale of alcohol online, minimum pricing of alcohol and the advertising of alcohol products.

Retail Ireland will continue, over the coming weeks, to engage with relevant stakeholders as the Bill moves to the Dáil for further debate and ratification.

Irish Retailers Move to Adapt to New Age of Technology RETAIL Ireland Skillnet, the education and training division of Retail Ireland, facilitated almost 70,000 training days in 2017, with over 1,600 retail employees participating in our different courses from progressive retailers who recognise that the key to unlocking new opportunities and riding the wave of change is through the education of their employees.

Retail Ireland Skillnet offers work-based training and education, which is developed by retailers and delivered at a time, place and pace to suit the sector. The courses, which are fully accredited by Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) and part-funded by the State, cover areas as diverse as customer care, communications, merchandising and display, selling skills, security, as well as warehousing and management. A number of Level 7 and Level 8 degree courses are available, along with

our Masters of Business in Innovation and Leadership.

Courses are designed and delivered in conjunction with industry and address the challenges and opportunities faced by employers in today’s dynamic business environment.

In 2018, Retail Ireland Skillnet will launch its eLearning platform to meet the ever-changing demands of the retail industry. Our course offering will also expand to include a suite of digital courses, delivered using traditional book format, eLearning and supported with online lecture notes.

As part of Retail Ireland’s strategy ‘Shaping the future of Irish retail 2020’, we are committed to working with member companies, government and stakeholders to promote and raise awareness of the exciting and rewarding careers paths available within retail. Professionalising the sector will help to promote retail as an attractive and desirable career choice and Retail Ireland Skillnet is committed to up-skilling all employees and new entrants within the sector.

If you would like to find out more about Retail Ireland Skillnet programmes, please call (074) 9176853 or email info@retailirelandskillnet.com.

Tel: 01-6051558 www.retailireland.ie Need more?

For more information about what we do and how your retail business can benefit from our unique services and supports, please visit us at www.retailireland.ie.

Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie|23

Easter Treats

Easter Egg-stravaganza!

Irish consumers’ love affair with chocolate hits fever pitch at the lucrative Easter season.

EASTER is big business, as Irish consumers’ love affair with chocolate reaches fever pitch. Irish people are, per capita, the third biggest consumers of chocolate in the world, behind only the Swiss and the Germans, and this is hugely apparent at Easter, as we munch our way through more than €35m worth of chocolate during the season.

The fact that Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day both occur in spring further boosts confectionery sales, but it is Easter that really egg-cites consumers (ahem). While many consumers are purchasing well-known chocolate branded eggs for children, there are also a host of premium manufacturers, ensuring that adults aren’t forgotten when it comes to treats this Easter.

“Chocolate remains synonymous with spring and Easter, with 73% of households with kids buying chocolate for seasonal occasions (Source: Nielsen 12 weeks to Easter 15/04/17),” notes Levi Boorer, Customer Development Director, Ferrero. “When it comes to choosing what to buy during these events, shoppers are continuing to look

for special and premium products to share or to gift. Treating yourself and others with single serve items during this period is also popular.”

Ferrero Ferrero is helping retailers step into spring with the introduction of new seasonal products, a bespoke on-pack promotion across its Thorntons portfolio, standout merchandising solutions and a €590k marketing campaign. “With Thorntons now firmly under the Ferrero stable, we are able to offer products to suit every need,” explains Levi Boorer, Customer Development Director, Ferrero.

With six in 10 impulsive buyers stating that seasonal packaging is important (Source: Advantage Group Seasonal Research Dec 2016), Ferrero is also introducing bright new seasonal packaging across its portfolio of household favourites, to drive relevancy during the key trading period. To emphasise the premiumisation of Thorntons and create a clearer and better aligned range, the brand has redesigned the products, which has

The hugely popular Thorntons Classic Collection 258g egg.

24|Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie

Easter Treats proven to significantly improve purchase intent.

The premium range of Ferrero Rocher Eggs is worth €188k, growing at +22.9% (Source: Nielsen Ireland 12 weeks to w/e 16/04/17). To keep up momentum and continue to drive relevancy, the Ferrero Rocher Egg range features a new Easter design.

To capitalise on the desire amongst consumers to gift loved ones with something unique and irreplaceable, this year, Ferrero has developed a personalisation campaign across the Thorntons range, bringing the brand’s rich heritage in producing high quality, lovingly crafted chocolates to life.

“In the context of occasion gifting, significant nostalgia exists for Thorntons,” Boorer continues.

“Personalisation is a treasured memory, with recollections of being gifted personalised eggs, or queuing to have eggs personalised. For many, an Easter gift from Thorntons signals premium, good quality chocolate and a thoughtful gift.”

Supported by a marketing campaign spanning TV, digital and social media, the promotion will be live across a range of 14 eggs and novelties, offering shoppers the chance to win hundreds of personalised gifts for their loved ones.

Prizes include 1,000 chocolate speech bubbles, with a personalised message.

The Thorntons range of adult eggs (small and large) is worth €236,000 (up +150% year-on-year), demonstrating the popularity of shelled eggs. To continue to drive growth during the season and encourage shoppers to trade up, Thorntons redesigned range of Favourite Flavours Adult Gift Eggs will also feature

Top Tips for a Successful Spring LEVI Boorer, Customer Development Director at Ferrero, offers these top tips for a successful spring: Range Keep your range simple to avoid confusion and allow your shoppers to buy with confidence. Shoppers are looking to trade up at spring, so offer a good display dedicated to your spring offering which is dedicated to premium brands to encourage shoppers.

Availability Stock up early to make the most of the whole spring season, and keep in mind that some shoppers like to purchase early, whilst others will be looking for a last minute purchase.

Cross-Category Promotions Providing a cross-category promotion, such as chocolates and flowers, increases basket spend for retailers and offers shoppers the chance to purchase multiple items, in a convenient way.

(Source: Ferrero) Kinder Surprise 100g Pink and Blue Eggs are partnering with two new licenses, DC Super Friends and DC Superhero Girls.

The Grand Ferrero Rocher will feature revamped packaging this year to drive greater product clarity.

the on-pack promotion, available in four variants: Thorntons Toffee, Fudge & Caramel Collection 208g, Thorntons Classic Collection 205g, Thorntons Nut & Praline Collection 208g and Thorntons Fruit Collection 210g (MRSP €8).

Thorntons is looking to further drive the appeal of its larger eggs, with the return of its popular Mint Collection variant. Having joined the line-up in 2017 (alongside Thorntons Classic Collection 258g, MRSP €12, Thorntons Classic Dark Collection 258g, MRSP €13.50 and Thorntons Continental 255g, MRSP €12), is already worth €29.7k

(Source: Nielsen Ireland 2017).

Due to the success of the Thorntons Dessert Eggs range in the UK last year, the brand is introducing the product into Ireland for 2018. Available in three variants; Thorntons Chocolate Fudge Brownie 313g, Thorntons Lemon Meringue 319g and Thorntons Pecan Pie 329g, the Dessert Eggs off a premium alternative for shoppers looking to trade up.

In addition, Kinder Surprise 100g Pink and Blue Eggs are getting a spring makeover. After experiencing double digit growth at +12.3% last year, worth over €138k (Source: Nielsen Total Coverage 31/12/16 vs 29/04/17), they will be partnering with two new licenses, DC Super Friends and DC Superhero Girls. To support the new design, Kinder Surprise will be hitting TV screens, as part of the brand’s €401,678 spring marketing investment that will also span digital and social activity.

“With 73% of shoppers buying Boxed Chocolate at Easter, we’d always advise retailers to stock a good selection of seasonal lines alongside the core allyear-round range, as it’s the well-known

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Easter Treats and trusted brands and products that shoppers will actively seek out,” Boorer comments. “We understand the role sharing now plays within the confectionery market and the Ferrero Pralines and Thorntons Boxed Chocolates ranges will be clearly positioned in line with two key shopper missions – to give to share and to give to gift.”

To mark occasions such as Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day, Ferrero will also hero its popular Raffaello Heart and Ferrero Rocher Heart. The Ferrero Rocher Heart is Thorntons will be replacing its well-known Harry available in two sizes, Hopalot Milk Chocolate and White Chocolate Eggs and 50g (MRSP €2.58) and 125g (MRSP €6.34), and novelty characters with a Milk Chocolate Bunny and a White Chocolate Bunny, to reflect the new Masterbrand the Raffaello Heart is available in a larger 140g colours. format (MRSP €7.71). At greater product clarity. The much-loved Valentine’s Day, the two hearts combined Grand Ferrero Rocher is available in two have grown +72.7% in the last year sizes, 125g and 240g, with an MRSP of and are now worth more than €29.9k €7.33 and €12.89 respectively.

Ferrero was a key driver of novelties growth over Easter 2017, partly driven by the continued success of Kinder Joy. Kinder Joy will make a return in 2018 following impressive sales last year, which saw the product continue its lead as the number one brand in novelties (Source: Nielsen Total Coverage Easter 31/12/16 vs Easter 29/04/14). The award winning confectionery will be supported with OOH and digital displays.

To help retailers capitalise on the spring period this year, Kinder have designed a Kinder Egg Hunt Kit 185g, with an MRSP of €9. The Easter products will be available to the convenience channel with the aim of helping retailers share the joy of Easter egg hunts with their local community.

The popular sharing bag from Kinder, Kinder Choco-Bons, will have a new Easter inspired pack design this year, to align the product with the rest Kinder Joy will make a return in 2018, of the range and drive relevancy for the following impressive sales last year. occasion.

Both the Kinder and Thorntons (Source: Nielsen Ireland 3 weeks to w/e brands enjoyed a strong performance 10/02/17). Ferrero Rocher’s seasonal during the spring period last year; lines, such as the Grand Ferrero Kinder seasonal is now worth €1.7m Rocher, offer shoppers an assortment of over the Easter period, making it the premium products. third biggest brand (Source: Nielsen, The Grand Ferrero Rocher continues Total Scantrack, ROI, Kids Seasonal to show strong momentum within the Database, Easter Period, Value Sales. novelties category, and will feature Data 12 weeks to 16/4/17). Meanwhile, revamped packaging this year to drive

Thorntons outperformed what was a flat market, growing at +22% (Source: Nielsen, 12 weeks to 16/04/17). To capitalise on the popularity of the products, both brands will receive new launches and a strong support plan for spring 2018.

Thorntons will be replacing its wellknown Harry Hopalot Milk Chocolate and White Chocolate Eggs and novelty characters with a Milk Chocolate Bunny and a White Chocolate Bunny, to reflect the new Masterbrand colours. The new chocolate bunny novelties will be available in two sizes, 200g (MRSP €6), and 60g (MRSP €3); the Milk and White Chocolate Bunny Eggs will be available in one size, 151g (MRSP €4). In addition, the eggs will also feature the on-pack personalisation promotion.

Lindt On the back of the success of some of Lindt’s biggest brands, the Lindt Easter Egg range proves a key sales driver for retailers at spring time. Growing +13.8% year on year and delivering over €1.57m RSV in 2017 (Source: AC Nielsen Total Scantrack: Sales 16 weeks to w/e 16/4/17 versus 14 weeks to w/e 27/3/16), Lindt Easter Eggs are proving a must stock item for retailers as consumers look to trade up and give a premium Easter gift.

This year, Lindt is bringing more innovation to the segment. From the new smooth melting and blissfully rich Lindor 60% Egg to the magical and endearing Gold Bunny Flower Egg, Lindt will continue to delight shoppers this Easter with an exquisite array of Easter Egg creations to choose from.

The Lindt Easter Egg range includes the new smooth melting and blissfully rich Lindor 60% Egg.

No.1

Boxed Chocolate*

No.1 Easter Bunny*

Add Value this Spring with the No.1 Premium Brand STOCK UP NOW *Nielsen Scantrack Mults Total Performance: Easter 16 weeks ending 16.04.17, Boxed Chocolate MAT to 31.12.17

28|Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie

Easter Treats of +12.3% and a market share of 11.7% (Source: AC Nielsen, 52 weeks to 3/12/17, MAT), Lindt Lindor continues to be a must stock for retailers in 2018.

With a wide range of exciting and delectable flavours as well as formats, Lindt Lindor is the perfect premium chocolate gift for any occasion. From the classic Lindor Milk recipe to the Limited Edition Lindor Strawberries and Cream, the Lindor Cornet range is sure to excite and engage your customers. Also returning this February is the limited edition Lindor Love Heart Box 160g, the same smooth melting Lindor in a seasonal Love Heart Box, making it the perfect gift for Valentine’s Day. Supported by a strong national campaign, Lindt Lindor TV advertising will return to screens this spring with increased activity both in and out of store.

The Lindt Gold Bunny is hopping back into stores nationwide this spring in a variety of sizes and formats.

The Lindt Gold Bunny is hopping back into stores nationwide this spring.

Growing at a rate of +9.1%, the Lindt Gold Bunny is the clear market leader in Easter novelties in Ireland (Source: AC Nielsen Total Scantrack: Sales 16 weeks to w/e 16/4/17 versus 14 weeks to w/e 27/3/16). Made by the Lindt master chocolatiers from the finest Lindt chocolate, wrapped in endearing gold foil packaging and finished with the iconic red ribbon and ringing bell, the Lindt Gold Bunny is guaranteed to bring a smile to the face of your shoppers’ loved ones.

This Easter, retailers can expect to see a heavyweight support plan behind the Gold Bunny brand. Hosting engaging events, in and out of store activity and premium POS, the Lindt Gold Bunny brand is set to go from strength to strength. The Lindt Gold Bunny is available in a variety of sizes and formats and is available in all good retailers nationwide.

Lindt Lindor has strengthened its position as the number one premium boxed chocolate brand in the Irish market. Maintaining double digit growth

Lindt Lindor is the perfect premium chocolate gift for any occasion, from the classic Lindor Milk recipe to the Limited Edition Lindor Strawberries and Cream.

Cadbury Creme Egg Hunting Season!

Cadbury Creme Egg Hunting season is upon us, marking the return of the gooey chocolatey treat. To add to the egg-citement this year, there’s a rare white chocolate Creme Egg to hunt down.

For the first time ever, Cadbury Creme Egg lovers have the chance to get their hands on a limited edition white chocolate version of the much-loved egg – a white chocolatey shell containing the iconic gooey fondant yolk centre in a promotion which runs until Easter Sunday, April 1, 2018.

White chocolate Cadbury Creme Eggs will be up for grabs every single day across participating retailers, camouflaged as a classic Cadbury Creme Egg, so only the most seasoned of Cadbury Creme Egg Hunters will be able to track them down. Those lucky enough to find the ‘highly prized’ egg will also be in with a chance of winning up to €1,000.

Crowned as last year’s number one Easter brand ( Source: IRI, Total market incl. discounter, value sales Full Easter w/e 16/4/17), those looking to hunt down the iconic egg should get out there before they’re goo-ne - remember they’re only available from January to Easter! For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ cadburyireland.

This year, Cadbury Creme Egg lovers will the chance to get their hands on a limited edition white chocolate version of the muchloved egg.

Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie|29

Easter Treats Lir Chocolates Legendary Irish chocolatier Lir is devoted to the magic and craft of turning the finest chocolate from around the world into hand-finished and handdecorated works of art that are based on both traditional recipes and gloriously unfamiliar new combinations.

Following the hugely successful launch of the Lir Discovery collection at Christmas 2017, Lir’s master chocolatier has created a stunning new range of Easter Eggs, which are sure to excite shoppers this Easter. The new range includes Lir Crispy Caramel Egg with Salted Caramel Truffles; Lir Cola and Popping Candy Egg with Milk Chocolate Truffles; and the Lir White Chocolate Egg with Praline Truffles, all of which have an RRP of €9.

The adventurous new range also includes the Belgian Chocolate Egg with a selection of Discovery Chocolates, available in both milk and dark chocolate varieties (RRP €13). Lir’s master chocolatier has used ingredients sourced from around the world to create exciting new flavours within the Easter Egg range, such as The Cranberry and Pistachio Egg with Chewy Pecan Chocolates and the Belgian Milk with Coconut and Almond Egg, which comes with a selection of truffles. At approx.

360g, these two are the largest eggs in the range and have an RRP of €16.

For Valentine’s Day gifting, Lir’s Discovery collection offers luxurious, exciting flavours, such as Persian Lime Truffle, Raspberry and Pistachio Duo, Dark Chocolate Torte and Chewy Pecan Caramel, alongside classic, much-loved favourites like Praline and Coffee. In addition to the Discovery

Lily O’Brien’s The Lily O’Brien’s Easter Egg collection offers something truly distinctive to make any recipient feel special. The Irish chocolatier’s range consists of large and medium hand-crafted eggs of premium chocolate, including the best-sellers; Desserts Collection, Sticky Toffee, Salted Caramel, Crispy Hearts and the Honeycomb Egg.

The stunning new Easter Egg range from Lir Chocolates includes Lir Cola and Popping Candy Egg with Milk Chocolate Truffles. collection, Lir also offers a delightful Dessert Collection and three irresistible flavours of cocoa-dusted Truffles: Salted Caramel, Marc de Champagne and Milk Chocolate. The Discovery Collection has an RRP of €13 (180g) and €24 (360g). The Dessert Collection’s RRP is €9 (145g), while the Truffles (168g) are priced at €9.50.

This latest range of hand-finished Easter Eggs remains true to the Lir company ethos and also demonstrates the excitement and innovation that Lir brings to the category. For more, visit www.lirchocolates.com.

Lir’s cocoa-dusted Truffles are available in three irresistible flavours: Salted Caramel, Marc de Champagne and Milk Chocolate.

The Lily O’Brien’s Easter Egg collection offers something truly distinctive to make any recipient feel special, including the hugely popular Honeycomb Egg. Also for Easter, what better way to share time-honoured skills than baking for or with family? Lily O’ Brien’s has launched a range of Milk and Dark Chocolate buttons for baking that will excite the taste buds of adventurous foodies, cooking professionals and amateur bakers. Easter eggs are available nationwide and baking buttons are available online at www.lilyobriens.ie, from the factory shop in Newbridge and in Kildare Village Outlet. For baking inspiration, see their blog on Lilyobriens.ie.

Lily O’ Brien’s has launched a range of Milk and Dark Chocolate buttons for baking that will excite the taste buds of adventurous foodies, cooking professionals and amateur bakers.

Sweet dreams for Free’ist NORTHERN Ireland based sugar-free food company Free’ist has invested Stg£250,000 into a complete rebrand and supporting growth strategy, aimed at doubling its business within the next two years.

Based in Belfast, Free’ist launched its range of products in 2013 in response to the growing demand for sugar free and no added sugar snacks. Since then, the company has expanded its range to include chocolate bars, cookies, popcorn and marshmallows, and is stocked in many of the major retailers and health food stores across Ireland and the UK. As part of the recent reinvestment, Free’ist has completely transformed its brand identity and packaging, developed innovative new product lines, launched a new e-commerce website and recruited additional sales resource to drive the business at retail level.

“Since launching four years ago, the ‘free from’ market has grown significantly,” explains Gerard McAdorey, Managing Director, Free’ist. “Consumers are more aware of sugar content than ever and we continue to witness a rise in people seeking out sugar free snack options by way of choice, rather than other reasons such as an existing medical condition.”

The demand for this type of product in a convenient format has also increased and so Free’ist has introduced a 30g impulse chocolate bar range, which will be available within food-to-go outlets, vending machines and retail checkout points.

“Our aim is to provide a diverse range of products which contain no sugar or no added sugar and, most importantly, taste great. We have worked hard to achieve that and the results are paying off through a number of significant retail contracts,” McAdorey says. “With a vibrant new brand identity and a targeted sales programme in place, we believe our targets of doubling our turnover by11:40 2020 is definitely crossell-adcopy.pdf 1 18/01/2018 achievable.”

Pictured are (l-r): Steve McDonagh, Marketing CoOrdinator, and Gerard McAdorey, Managing Director, Free'ist, unveiling its rebrand and new packaging.

CROSSELL FIELD MARKETING Contract Sales Teams In Store Merchandising Temporary / Relief Staff Promotional Activation

Blitz / Seasonal teams Tactical Merchandising FMCG Recruitment Retail Audits

Celebrating 21 Years In Business

Unit G7 Centrepoint Business Park, Oak Road, Dublin, D12 XK82, Ireland Tel: (01) 460 3884 | www.crossell.ie | info@crossell.ie

Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie|31

Centra National Conference

Centra To Open 30 New Stores

Centra is to open 30 new stores as part of a €30m expansion this year.

CENTRA has announced plans to open 30 new stores and revamp a further 100, creating a total of 400 new jobs as part of a €30m investment.

The announcement was made at the Centra National Conference, which took place at the Malton Hotel, Killarney.

The expansion forms part of Centra’s ongoing Gary Dunne, Centra Council Chair, Martin Kelleher, transformation as Managing Director, Centra and Ian Allen, Sales Director, the retailer’s healthy Centra, pictured at the Centra National Conference. convenience offering Frank and Honest.” continues to grow, following its brand Centra’s ultimate ambition, repositioning, Live Every Day, two years according to the MD, is “to redefine ago. The continued shift by consumers convenience shopping and we are for healthier options as part of living leading the charge in this respect, as a balanced lifestyle and the rollout demonstrated by Centra Parnell Street of Frank and Honest, the company’s winning IGD Innovative Store of the Year gourmet coffee brand, across the ahead of 700 stores across 50 countries”. store network helped drive Centra’s “We are well-positioned for the commercial performance last year. future with plans to open a further 30 As part of its growth strategy, Centra Centra stores in 2018, highlighting continues to respond to customers’ the attractiveness of the Centra brand demand for healthy convenience through to independent retailers,” Kelleher the introduction of innovative digital solutions. These include the Beat the Queue app, which allows busy lunchbreak shoppers to pre-order sandwiches and avoid waiting. The Beat the Queue service will be introduced to over 100 stores in 2018.

Redefining Convenience Shopping “We are very happy with our performance in 2017 in what is an extremely competitive market,” noted Martin Kelleher, Managing Director of Centra. “Our decision to reposition Centra in response to changing consumer trends, with customers increasingly choosing healthy options, has paid dividends. Similarly, a more discerning taste for coffee has enabled us to double sales through the introduction of our gourmet coffee brand

noted. “Our performance is ultimately testament to the efforts of our retail partners, who live the brand every day and deliver a tailored offer to the local community.”

Centra Store of the Year Deegan’s Centra in Urlingford, Co. Kilkenny, was named the best Centra in Ireland, scooping the Centra Store of the Year award for 2018 at the Conference.

Store owner Joe Deegan paid tribute to the team at Deegan’s and acknowledged that their enthusiasm and dedication were determining factors in Deegan’s Centra being selected as 2018 Centra Store of the Year: “I am delighted to accept this award on behalf of all of our dedicated, hard-working staff members at Deegan’s. They are a super team of professionals who constantly strive to deliver the very best service, healthy convenience offering and value for money to our customers. This award is recognition of the great effort that they give every day.”

Ian Allen, Sales Director of Centra, commended all Centra retailers for their contribution to redefining convenience shopping. “Centra stores, such as Deegan’s in Urlingford, are perfect examples of independent retailers working hard in their local communities to succeed in a very competitive market, by meeting the needs of their customers. They provide choice, value and excellent service within their locality on a daily basis.

Congratulations to the team at Deegan’s Centra, who have gone Pictured are: Martin Kelleher, Managing Director, Centra; above and beyond to Joe and Diane Deegan, Deegan’s Centra, Urlingford, Centra maintain the highest Store of the Year 2018; JF Michel, Account Director, Three; standards across and Ian Allen, Sales Director, Centra. the store.”

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From 30 September 2017, manufacturers can no longer produce branded packs of cigarettes, cigars and roll your own tobacco and the 1 year “Sell through� began.

SEPT 2017

30 Standardised packs will begin to appear in the market. Between this time and 30 September 2018, retailers are permitted to sell both current packs and standardised packs.

SEPT 2018

TRANSITION PERIOD

30 From 30 September 2018 retailers are only allowed to sell standardised packs.

Health warnings cover 65% front and back

Olive green packs

Text warnings cover 50% both sides of pack No reference to taste or flavour and standard size, common font

Merchandising

Point of Purchase

Brand and variant names will be a standard size and common font

Returns

LOG ON TO WWW.SHOWMEID.IE & MAKE SURE YOUR BUSINESS IS PROTECTED Smoking is for adults and John Player believes that children should not smoke. Please be ever vigilant.

If there is any doubt about a person’s age - always refuse the sale. Information for Trade Customers Only.

F o r To b a c c o Tr a d e r s O n l y

34|Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie

Energy Management

Save with the Right Solution Get Solutions can save every retailer up to 30% on their annual utility bills, while helping the environment at the same time.

THE new year’s resolutions that we make at midnight on December 31 are not always the ones we carry on in the new year, as over-expectations and hyperbole can often make liars of us.

Seasoned psychologists recommend that we should take aim carefully and look for measured results. “Don”t say that you want to lose weight in general,” is their stated advice. “Confirm instead that you would like to lose five pounds in two weeks.” That outcome is both measured and measurable.

It’s the same in business. Rather than opting for increasing sales by a general 10%, retailers are advised to look at the bottom line, see what they can shave off by reducing, replacing and reusing. Then look at ways at which sales can be grown. Are there new products that might make the shop more attractive, whether it’s a new, improved deli or the addition of a fresh flower display in-store?

What if you could do both things in one: shave off costs in a measured way and then increase sales? Surely that would be the holy grail for retailers?

Charlie Grendon, Managing Director of Get Solutions, believes he has just the ticket.

“Many of our customers are retail outlets, ranging in size from the tiny corner store to some impressive large shopping outlets,” explains Charlie.

“Either way, increasing sales is tough. It is hard to get extra footfall without a new Luas stop being positioned outside the front door.”

CSNA Affinity Partner Grendon’s company looks at utility costs and how these can be reduced.

Get Solutions is already an affinity partner with the Convenience Stores and Newsagents Association.

CEO of the CSNA, Vincent Jennings explains how the organisation identified the potential benefits for members: “We thoroughly evaluated Get Solutions and their energy savings claims and found them reliable, trustworthy and capable of positively impacting our members’ bottom line. They can and will achieve

savings of up to 30% for every member, savings that cannot be ignored in today’s tough economic climate where every cent counts.”

Charlie Grendon views rising energy costs as a major issue for small business. “Energy costs have roughly doubled in the past decade,” he says.

“But that cost can be swiftly reduced by at least a third if correct equipment is installed and intelligent procurement of energy followed. We offer this to our customers who in turn enjoy dramatic savings. In addition, we can offer a ROI

Pictured are (l-r): Charlie Grendon, MD, Get Solutions; Vincent Jennings, CEO, CSNA; and Joe Mannion, Finance Officer, CSNA.

Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie|35

Energy Management

Daybreak store owner Arthur McGuire, pictured with his team outside his award-winning Galway store. on any investment in less than three years, making it a very compelling argument for any retailer.”

Resource Efficiency and Cost Reduction Get Solutions has worked with energy consultants to quantify the savings.

One such consultant is James Hogan, Programme Manager with the Green Business Programme, a free service for business funded under the EPA’s National Waste Prevention Programme (NWPP). Over the last 10 years, the Green Business Programme has identified over €10m worth of savings for businesses, ranging from €2,000 to €250,000. Regardless of the size of the savings, the impacts of resource efficiency and cost reduction are important for all business sizes.

“Retailers were quick to point out that reducing utility costs by €6,700 per annum was equivalent to increasing sales by €67,000, when there is a 10% profit margin,” explains Hogan.

“Green Business has seen first-hand that retailers and other small business owners are generally too busy managing core business tasks to focus on waste prevention. Many small businesses are not monitoring utility consumption and costs, and therefore are not aware of the opportunities to reduce costs.”

Get Solutions has worked with Green Business to help reduce the bottom line for clients. “We conduct free LED lighting audits for our clients and produce detailed reports outlining the savings,” Grendon reveals. “Typically, our clients save 66% when swapping out traditional lights with LED.” There is also a secondary benefit whereby the new improved lighting actually increases sales, Grendon believes: “Traditional fluorescent lighting can be very harsh. Our shop owners and managers all testify to an increase in sales. Sometimes it can be as simple as lighting up a dark corner or the actual ambient light itself enhancing product on the shelves.”

William Hanley, owner and manager of SuperValu Clondalkin.

Real Stores, Real Savings Arthur McGuire decided to upgrade the lighting at his Daybreak store in the Claddagh area of Galway City last year to 100% LED and saved €2,518 in energy costs as a direct result.

“I was very keen to obtain the financial savings,”

reveals McGuire, “but we quickly discovered another benefit in the change in the lighting. Customers really like the new lighting. For example, the back wall consists of the dairy wall fridge where our diary produce is displayed. The new lighting draws the customers in and we have seen sales improve there as a result.”

Another client, SuperValu in North Clondalkin managed to slash a whopping €50,000 off its energy bills while working with Get Solutions.

“Get Solutions came in and did a thorough audit of the store,” says William Hanley, owner and manager of SuperValu Clondalkin. “The report they produced was very detailed and outlined which lights to switch out, what should replace them, where we could improve our lighting quality and how much we would save. At the end of the day, it was a no brainer.

Every light was replaced with the peace of mind of a minimum five-year guarantee included for all fittings.”

The annual energy bill at SuperValu Clondalkin had hovered around the €120,000 mark. “Aside from the financial benefit, it is better for the environment to use less energy and any future energy cost increases will impact less on the business. This is something that is really important to me. Working with Get Solutions was a great experience and I can totally recommend them,” Hanley ethuses.

Free Business Audit Charlie Grendon and the team at Get Solutions are happy to work with any retail store, large or small. One of their first tasks is to conduct a free audit of the premises to identify the potential savings. Get Solutions also assists the client in applying for any grants or state aid.

“We can also assist in providing the finance,” says Grendon. “Some retailers can afford to pay for the work directly and since the return on investment (ROI) comes in under three years, this can be very attractive.

However, if cash flow is limited, we can offer either ‘green money’ from the pillar banks at a cost effective loan rate of just 4.5% or full finance through a leasing company that does not cost a penny as it is paid for out of savings.

“Imagine if you could effectively reduce costs and increase sales with a single wave of the wand,” concludes Grendon. “That is what we at Get Solutions do: why not book your free audit now?”

36|Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie

IGBF Southern Region Gala Ball

Southern Hospitality Shines in IGBF Ball The 41st annual IGBF Southern Region Gala Ball helped to get 2018 off to a great start, while raising important funds for the charity.

The IGBF Southern Region Gala Ball took place in the Radisson Blu Hotel, Little Island, Co. Cork, on Saturday, January 13, the 41st occasion of this annual event, which is one of the highlights of the IGBF calendar.

Attendees included the Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Tony Fitzgerald, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Simon Coveney TD, and John Moane, IGBF President of Appeals and Managing Director of BWG’s Wholesale Division, who addressed the audience on the night and helped to raise funds for this most worthy of causes.

Main sponsors on the night were Danone Baby Nutrition, Barry Group and Musgrave Retail Partners Ireland, while the list of sponsors also included a veritable who’s who of the Irish FMCG market, including Barry & Fitzwilliam, Heineken Ireland, Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard, Solus, Joan Tierney, M&P O'Sullivan Limited, Gala Retail Services, JTI, Lanchester Wines UK, The Gleeson Group, Ballymaloe Foods, Nestlé Ireland, Mars Ireland, Mondelez Ireland Ltd, Johnson & Johnson, Beiersdorf Ireland, Barry’s Tea, Valeo Foods, Primeline Group, Britvic Ireland, Lucozade Ribena Suntory, Unilever Ireland, Largo Foods, Pladis Goup, HR Foods, and Tennant & Ruttle.

Moving Tribute to Former Chairman Chairman of the Southern Region IGBF Committee, Kevin Flynn spoke to attendees, and paid particular tribute to James O’Sullivan, formerly of M&P O’Sullivan, who served on the Southern Region Committee for more than three decades and sadly passed away last year.

Pictured are the IGBF Southern Regional Committee, including: Liz Griffin, John Player & Sons Ltd; John Ryan, Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard; Nicola Carroll and John Moane, IGBF President of Appeals and Wholesale Director, BWG Group; Carmel and Kevin O’Flynn, Centra, Little Island, Cork; Donal Healy; Ruth and Simon Coveney TD, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade; and Cllr Tony and Georgina Fitzgerald, the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Cork.

“James was a member of our committee for over 30 years, and served as Chairman for many of them,” Flynn recalled. “Under his Chairmanship, the committee organised various events and raised much needed funds for our charity. In 2016 the Cork Civic Trust awarded James the title of Corkonian of the Year in recognition of his charitable and voluntary work.”

A past president and director of the Cork Business Association, James O’Sullivan was also District Governor of the Lions Club of Ireland, and founded the Carrigaline Lions Club cycle classic.

For many years, James helped to raise millions of euros for those in need.

“It is with great pride that we the Southern Committee remember James

tonight,” the Chairman noted. “He was a man of many qualities but above all he was a great and willing friend to all.”

Donal Healy, who served for many years with James both on the IGBF Committee and Cork Business Association, presented a bouquet of flowers to James’ wife, Cathy, herself a keen supporter of the IGBF. The Southern Committee also announced that they are making a contribution to the Marymount Hospice, in memory of James, from the funds raised from the photo booth in the lobby of the Radisson Blu on the night.

All in all, the Ball was a roaring success, which raised much needed funding for the IGBF.

Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie|37

IGBF Southern Region Gala Ball

Kevin Flynn, Chairman of the Southern Region Committee and his wife, Carmel, at the IGBF Southern Region Gala Ball.

The team from Britvic Ireland are pictured at the Ball: Paul Purcell, Adrian Looney, Eoin Tracey, Eddie McGrath, Kevin Donnelly, Nicolas Egan, Sheila Looney, Amy Tracey, Norma Sheehy, Natasha Buckley, Deirdre Donnelly, and Mary Egan.

Pictured are Paul and Catherine Fleming, Telesales Manager, BWG Group, from Glounthane, Co. Cork.

Attending the Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund annual ball at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Little Island, Cork were Maxine Hyde, Sarah Vickery, Rose Callaghan, Fiona Tattan, Paul Callaghan and Ross Byrne, all from Ballymaloe Foods.

Paddy Tierney with his daughters Susan and Regina.

The team from Lucozade Ribena Suntory: Bryan and Miriam Morris, Robert Smyth and Niamh Duggan, and Shane and Alice O'Connor.

38|Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie

IGBF Southern Region Gala Ball

The Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Cork, Cllr. Tony and Georgina Fitzgerald, are pictured with John Ryan from Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard.

Donal Healy is pictured making a special presentation to Cathy O'Sullivan, wife of the late James O’Sullivan, at the IGBF Southern Region Gala Ball.

The late James O’Sullivan, Director of M&P O’Sullivan, who sadly passed away last year, aged just 58.

(Photo: Billy MacGill)

Kevin Flynn, IGBF Southern Region Committee Chairman, is pictured greeting Tánaiste Simon Coveney on his arrival at the Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund annual ball at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Little Island, Cork.

Pictured are Edwina Lucey, Holly Barry, Deirdre Behan, Paul Roche, Dave O'Keeffe and Norman Linehan from the Barry Group, one of the main sponsors of the IGBF Southern Region Gala Ball.

Barry Murphy, Calco Ireland, pictured with Ger White, Jane and John Ryan, Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard.

Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie|39

Sponsorship

Sponsorship to Break €200m in 2018 2018 is set to be a record year for sponsorship in Ireland, breaking the €200m mark for the first time.

WITH eight in 10 sponsors in Ireland considering acquiring new sponsorship rights in 2018, the Irish sponsorship market is set to grow by 12% to a new high of €201m in 2018, according to the annual Onside Irish Sponsorship Industry Survey from sponsorship experts Onside.

2017 saw the Irish sponsorship market grow 10% to an estimated €179m, with two in three sponsors increasing investment in sponsorship during last year, compared with the 55% that had planned to at the start of the year. The Onside annual review estimates that sponsorship is now attracting 21% of total marketing investment, up 7% post-recession.

According to John Trainor, Founder and CEO of Onside (pictured above): “Building on the strong momentum evidenced in 2017, sponsors and rights holders in Ireland are confident that demand will continue into 2018 - despite concerns around forces such as Brexit, ethical issues in sport, and legislative threats regarding certain categories of sponsorship. The upward investment in Ireland mirrors a similar picture we are seeing more widely for sponsorship across the Eurozone, albeit at a higher rate in Ireland.”

Broad Growth The Onside consultants note that while there is no one sector driving the overall strong performance, and the breadth of the expansion footprint is wide; three of the top four sectors expected to increase spend in 2018 are financerelated (banking, insurance and financial

services). Eight in 10 sponsors looking for a new sponsorship in 2018 will be looking for a sports play, with properties in rugby and GAA still seen as top growth opportunities for sponsors. Meanwhile, four in 10 sponsors will be considering sponsorships in the community and cause-related space, now ranked third and fourth strongest opportunity areas this year. Trainor notes that “showcasing community and social responsibility will be a particularly key motivation for companies engaging in sponsorship in 2018.”

The industry voted Vodafone’s partnership with the IRFU as the best sponsorship of the past year, while the IRFU, Live Nation and the GAA continue to be singled out by sponsors as leading role models of professional and innovative partners.

The Big Personalities A huge 95% of sponsorship practitioners see the use of sports personalities to endorse a brand or company as an effective form of sponsorship, although Conor McGregor’s marketability has halved since last year. According to the industry professionals surveyed, Katie Taylor tops the most marketable personality list for 2018. Other ‘high rising sports stars’ in the latest Onside research include GAA stars Joe Canning and Con O’Callaghan, Ireland and Leinster Rugby’s Joey Carberry and in non-sports circles, Saoirse Ronan and Niall Horan.

Globally, sponsors are shying away from the FIFA World Cup to be held throughout Russia later this summer

and this is reflected in Ireland, with just over a third of sponsors seeing it as an opportunity to engage with consumers in Ireland. This has fallen by 9% since Brazil’s hosting of the tournament in 2014, which was seen as a greater opportunity for customer engagement.

Reflecting on rights holders that are capturing sponsors' attention through disruption and change, Trainor notes that: “progressive changes by the Guinness Pro14 expansion to new markets and the GAA new season model, including the transformation of GAA football to include a ‘Super 8’ group, have been well received to date.”

Experiential Marketing Experiential marketing has grown as the area of innovative marketing that Irish sponsorship practitioners believe will provide the best opportunity to activate sponsorships in 2018, increasing by 10% for sponsors and 18% for rights holders.

Other areas of interest are big data and live streaming, while social media marketing still remains key for rights holders.

Trainor concludes: “The big challenge sponsors want to overcome during the coming year is how to achieve cut-through in an increasingly cluttered environment and this needs to result in exciting and innovative activations for consumers. It will also see sponsors exploring existing or new sponsorship rights in a fresh way, with real opportunity in spaces from GAA county boards to hockey and opera, as well as landmark events such as the World Meeting of Families this summer.”

40|Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie

Personal Care

Complete Cleansing Care with Nivea: No Compromise Created to offer easy make-up removal, skin cleansing and care, the Nivea cleansing range delivers the most complete cleansing experience.

THE innovative collection of products from Nivea, Ireland’s number one face brand*, helps to thoroughly cleanse the skin while gently caring and protecting its delicate moisture balance.

The Nivea cleansing skincare line comprises of various formats to suit all cleansing preferences, with products which are dermatologically and Nivea Daily Essentials 3 in 1 Cleansing Micellar Wipes All Skin Types 25 Wipes: winner of the ophthalmologically approved.

Product of the Year 2017.

Nivea is recommended by nine out of ten make-up Water, Nivea Daily Essentials 3 in 1 artists (Source: PiU UK 2016 91% of 100 Cleansing Micellar Wipes cleanse professional make-up artists agreed), and tone in the most efficient and and winner of the Product of the Year effective way by trapping even the (POTY) in the UK and Ireland 2017 for smallest particles of dirt and makeNivea Daily Essentials Cleansing Wipes up like a magnet. The superior Micellar Wipes. cleansing technology allows oil, The Nivea collection is now available dirt, and even waterproof makein pharmacies and grocery stores up to be easily absorbed without nationwide. harming the skin’s natural barrier and simultaneously protecting the • Nivea Daily Essentials Sensitive eyelashes and skin. Infused with 3 in 1 Micellar Cleansing Water Vitamin E, the wipes leave the skin This award winning product has an feeling deeply cleansed, nourished, innovative formula which cleanses and the smooth texture further and removes make-up from the face ensures that the product does not and eyes, while moisturising the irritate even the most sensitive skin. skin in one simple step. It respects the skin’s natural balance, requires • Nivea Daily Essentials Double no rinsing and is free of perfumes, Effect Eye Make-Up Remover colourants and parabens. Thanks This wonder product benefits from to the special micellar technology, a gentle bi-phase formula which it is an especially mild yet effective effectively dissolves eye make-up, cleanser suitable for sensitive skin. while caring for eyelashes and the delicate skin around eyes. The • Nivea Daily Essentials 3 in 1 ‘oil phase’ is designed to remove Cleansing Micellar Wipes waterproof mascara and eye Soaked in Nivea’s Caring Micellar

Nivea Daily Essentials Double Effect Eye Make-Up Remover benefits from a gentle bi-phase formula which effectively dissolves eye make-up, while caring for eyelashes and the delicate skin around eyes. make-up without irritating the sensitive eye area. The ‘aqueous phase’ is formulated to protect and care for lashes without leaving any oily residue. The highly effective yet caring formula is also enriched with cornflower extract, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Dermatologically and ophthalmologically approved, it is suitable for all skin types and contact lens wearers.

* Source: Euromonitor International Limited; Nivea by umbrella brand name in the categories Body Care, Face Care and Hand Care; in retail value terms, 2015. Beiersdorf UK Ltd calculation based on data reported by Nielsen through its Retail Index Service for the Female Face Category (Beiersdorf UK Ltd defined) for the 52-week period ending 05.11.2017 for the Irish market.

(Copyright © 2017, The Nielsen Company.)

Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie|41

Paper Products

Paper Buoyed!

A revitalised paper products market looks set for a super 2018, with new products and convenient formats driving growth.

FOR a category that is extremely mature, the paper products market has enjoyed reasonable growth in recent years.

Manufacturers are investing in premium products and segmentation in order to compete, while brands are encouraging consumers to move towards more convenient value-added retail tissue products, according to the latest report into the sector by Euromonitor International.

While demand for paper products is relatively steady, Euromonitor predict annual growth rates of 2% in both value and volume terms in the coming years, as pressure on unit prices subsides. The growth in foodservice has led to a growth in away-from-home tissue and hygiene, which looks set to continue as this category continues to expand.

According to figures from Kantar, the paper category in Ireland is worth €159.2m and seeing value growth of 1.1% & +€1.7m TY. This is driven by Toilet Tissue (+2.3%, +€2.7m), while the kitchen towel category is in decline, reducing by -2.6%, -€984K (Source: Kantar data to w/e December 31, 2017).

Regina A number of clear trends are driving consumption in the Irish paper products market, according to Regina. “In toilet

tissue, we are seeing retailers rely heavily on bulk pack promotional offers, which is impacting volume sales and frequency of purchase in the category.

The abundance of Premium 24 Roll offerings is also having Regina Blitz household towel has the highest level of loyal shoppers a negative of any brand in the marketplace. effect on Super category, driven by Regina, maintains Premium lines,” explains Adam Gray, Gray.

Trade Marketing Manager, Regina.

Interestingly compared to other The kitchen towels category has FMCG categories, brands are performing seen the emergence of dual purchasing, ahead of private label in the paper with many shoppers opting to pick up category, driven by the unbeatable both a Household Towel and Multiquality that consumers expect and have purpose towel during one shopping come to rely upon, according to Gray. “As trip. The market has pulled away from the category leader, Regina is a brand bulk pack offerings and moved towards that has specialised in providing high Jumbo Rolls. Single Roll has become quality products that consumers trust,” the fastest growing format in the he noted. Recent research has shown

42|Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie

Paper Products is the only brand to compete in both the Kitchen Towel and Toilet Tissue categories in Ireland,” stresses Gray.

“As the category leader in Kitchen Towel, we are proud that Regina is the number one brand, and we believe this is driven by our dedication to providing high quality products, but also products that meet genuine consumer needs,” he continued. “For example, the larger roll format of Regina XXL means consumers need to replenish supplies less frequently; Regina Wish helps consumers waste less; and the extralarge sheets of Regina Blitz with its

Thirst pockets multi cloth is a fantastic paper towel that cleans like a cloth. that Regina Blitz household towel has the highest level of loyal shoppers of any brand in the marketplace (Source: Neilsen Homescan, 12 w/e 07/07/17).

Regina claims leadership of the Kitchen Towel category, according to the Trade Marketing Manager: “We have successfully educated customers about the different benefits and uses for each product in the range. We frequently see both Regina XXL and Regina Blitz in the one trolley, being purchased for different needs in the home. Regina Wish seems particularly popular with families, as the format allows for less waste.”

The Regina Toilet Tissue brand has also benefited from the popularity of Regina Kitchen Towel, with a halo effect from its brand familiarity and loyalty in the market. “This effect is amplified further versus the competition as Regina

Single Roll has become the fastest growing format in the paper products category.

triple layer strength, means less effort and less paper needed for spills.”

2018 will see Regina continue to focus on delivering the best quality products their loyal consumers have come to know and trust. “We are always looking for new ways to improve the range to meet both consumer and retailers’ needs, so NPD will always be a key focus for the Regina brand,” Gray stressed. “This, along with maintaining our marketleading strategy to provide product differentiation, drive category value and develop products with our consumers at the forefront of our mind Regina Wish is particularly popular with families, as the will be a huge priority format allows for less waste.

in 2018.”

Competition between branded and private pabel products will continue to be aggressive in 2018, particularly with more copycat SKUs emerging. “That said, we are proud of the strength of the Regina brand as the number one Kitchen Towel Brand in Ireland and the loyalty it attracts, so will continue to invest and support it in this competitive environment,” Gray noted.

The Regina brand continues to grow YoY and claims leadership in the category (Source: Nielsen Scantrack Data 26 w/e December 2, 2017), driven by growth in penetration of 14% TY, now reaching a quarter of Irish households (Source: Kantar data to w/e December 31, 2017).

“This success can be attributed to the brand loyalty we see on a daily basis, but also to the success of new formats such as 1 Roll. 1 Roll is the fastest growing format in the category, growing by 50% YoY, which in value terms is an actual gain of +€711K YoY,” Gray added. “The format now accounts for an 11% share of the category; an increase of 3.7ppts on LY. Regina is the dominant brand in the format, with a 39.4% share and is largely responsible for driving format growth of +221% (Source: Nielsen Scantrack Data 52 w/e December 2, 2017).”

Essity Ireland Cushelle from Essity Ireland (formerly SCA) is now the number one brand in the toilet tissue market over 12 weeks, claiming 17.7% value share in the toilet tissue category (Source: Kantar Worldpanel, 12 week Data to December 31, 2017). Cushelle has the most valuable shoppers in the category,

Cushelle has exciting brand plans for 2018, with the launch of a new Quilted Cushelle pack supported with a new advertising campaign for TV, digital and cinema, featuring the brand icon Cushelle Koala.

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gives you more

44|Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie

Paper Products key householders with kids, builds on 31, 2017). The brand focus is the brand’s heritage as a household on its product quality, while hero with the evolution of much loved offering shoppers value across brand ambassador Juan Sheet – into its wide variety of different ‘Super Juan’! pack sizes. For instance, to Essity Ireland (formerly SCA) is suit all shoppers, Velvet has a leading global hygiene and health a core range that includes company, with operations in Ireland both four and nine roll pack based in Dublin. The group develops sizes, appealing to both the and produces sustainable personal basket ‘top up’ and trolley care, tissue and forest products. Sales shoppers. For those shoppers are conducted in about 150 countries who prefer to make a larger under many strong brands, including purchase, Velvet has a range of the leading global brands Tena and Tork, larger sized packs to cater for and regional brands such as Cushelle, them, whilst also encouraging Plenty, Velvet, Bodyform and Demak’Up. trade-up with the smaller pack The company has its headquarters in shoppers Stockholm, Sweden, and is listed on Plenty claims to be Nasdaq Stockholm. Essity used to be Ireland’s number one part of the SCA Group. More information household towel brand with at www.essity.com. value sales of over €6m Velvet toilet tissue is a must stock brand in the (Source: Kantar toilet tissue category with value sales over Worldpanel, 52 almost €3m. week Data to Dec 31, 2017). spending €8.70 on average per trip The focus for the brand and the Cushelle brand grew shopper in 2018 is to continue numbers by 79,000 this period versus to drive category last (Source: Kantar Worldpanel, 12 week innovation through the Data to Dec 31, 2017). launch of longer rolls, Over 52 weeks, the Cushelle brand offering consumers claims 12.4% value share in the toilet double the number of tissue category and has value sales of superior quality sheets over €15m (Source: Kantar Worldpanel, on every roll. Whether 52 week Data to Dec 31, 2017). Cushelle you're mopping, wiping, has exciting brand plans to continue this polishing, shining, growth in 2018, with the launch of a new cooking or cleaning, Quilted Cushelle pack, supported with a Plenty's superior new advertising campaign for TV, digital performance and longer Andrex is encouraging consumers to buy into the and cinema, featuring the brand icon rolls are even more ‘clean routine’ of dry and moist toilet tissue.

Cushelle Koala. perfect for every task Velvet toilet tissue is a must stock around the home.

Kimberly-Clark brand in the toilet tissue category with Plenty will continue to invest in Whether it is blowing our nose, caring for value sales over almost €3m (Source: driving awareness of this discretionary our skin, a gesture for someone in need, Kantar Worldpanel, 52 week Data to Dec category with a heavyweight marketing or wiping away tears in moments of high campaign across TV and digital VOD emotion, tissues play a much bigger role throughout 2018. The new TV campaign, in our daily lives than we realise. Often, which will continue to see Plenty reach we just don’t think about it.

The focus for Plenty in 2018 is to continue to drive category innovation through the launch of longer rolls, offering consumers double the number of superior quality sheets on every roll.

Kleenex is transforming the tissue category from just tissues, to recognition as an intrinsic part of people’s daily cleansing and nurturing routine.

Performance that matters

Driving growth with the launch of NEW Cushelle Quilted

Plenty, the No.1 household towel brand, WINS Product of the Year 2018 3

Discreet Performance range WINS Product of the Year 2018 1

Heritage brand delivering quality at a great price

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Paper Products

Kleenex Mansize, one of the star performers in KCC’s Kleenex range.

Kleenex, part of the KimberlyClark Corporation (KCC) portfolio, are leading a change in the tissue category, by strengthening these connections and making the benefits clearer for the consumer. This is key to transforming the category from just tissues, to recognition as an intrinsic part of people’s daily cleansing and nurturing routine. This is supported by a comprehensive marketing programme in and out of store.

Also part of the KCC range, Andrex has taken on the challenge of repositioning toilet tissue from household essential to ‘Intimate Care’, in a consistent strategy which aims to drive value back into the category.

Andrex is on a mission to elevate the standard of clean across the Irish and UK markets, by encouraging consumers to think about what feeling clean means to them. By transforming the way consumers view the category and encouraging them to buy into the ‘clean routine’ of dry and moist toilet tissue, Andrex is helping to unlock the category’s growth potential. This is supported by the multi-channel ‘How Andrex Do You Feel?’ campaign.

Homestead The Homestead paper range continues to be one of the strongest categories within the Homestead portfolio.

2017 was an extremely competitive year in this category and the sales of Homestead Tissue continue year on year to be extremely positive.

The paper range, which includes a variety of toilet rolls, kitchen towels and man-size tissues, is produced to the highest quality using 100% virgin pulp paper sourced from well managed forests. The selection rivals any market leader while remaining well priced in order to compete successfully in the private label market.

In 2017, Homestead’s Comfort 16 Roll on-pack support for the Marie Keating Foundation generated €25,000 for their Comfort Fund, which provides financial support to families affected by cancer all over Ireland.

2018 will see the continuation of Homestead’s toilet tissue price mark packs to ensure continued day to day value for the consumer.

New Homestead Absorb Jumbo 2 Roll Kitchen Towel will see a stronger, more absorbent kitchen towel introduced to the Homestead portfolio.

Homestead’s paper range is produced to the highest quality using 100% virgin pulp paper sourced from well managed forests.

2018 will see the continuation of Homestead’s toilet tissue and man-size tissue price mark packs to ensure continued day to day value for the consumer. The launch of Homestead Absorb Jumbo 2 Roll Kitchen Towel in quarter one, 2018, will see a stronger, more absorbent kitchen towel introduced to the Homestead portfolio, which will replace their current Splash Kitchen Towel.

“As demand from consumers grows for stronger more absorbent kitchen towel in larger roll formats, the launch of Homestead Absorb Jumbo 2 Roll Kitchen Towel means we provide our customers with a product they want at very competitive price, ensuring Homestead continues to Bring Value Home,” notes Homestead Brand Manager, Janice Gibney.

Homestead Logo for Reproduction on White or light coloured background

Pantone Reflex Blue

Process - C100 M73 Y0 K2

For further information please contact Janice Gibney, Homestead Brands Ltd., 12 Dundrum Business Park, Dublin 1

Contact your local Stonehouse Depot for further details

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NOffLA Off-Licence of the Year Awards

Portmarnock Store Crowned Off Licence of the Year Jus de Vine in Portmarnock, Co. Dublin, was the overall winner at the NOffLA Off Licence of the Year Awards.

JUS de Vine in Portmarnock, Co. Dublin, was crowned National Off Licence of the Year at the annual NOffLA Off-Licence of the Year Awards 2018, which took place at the Honorable Society of King’s Inns, Dublin, recently.

Now in their twenty-second year, the awards recognise and showcase excellence in the independent off licence sector, which represents 315 specialist businesses throughout the country. The awards highlight those retailers that offer exceptional service to customers and demonstrate excellence in retail standards.

“The annual NOffLA awards highlight the expertise of the independent off-licence sector, showcasing the benchmark of personal service in our industry, as well as the top-quality products offered by our highly trained, specialist members,” said NOffLA Chairman, Gary O’Donovan on the night.

The awards, which included 40 finalists, also saw O’Donovan’s OffLicence Group, Cork, being named Responsible Retailer of the Year 2018, and Conor McGrath, McHugh’s OffLicence, Kilbarrack, won RTC Online Trainee of the Year 2018.

All 40 finalists were awarded certificates of either ‘Merit’ or ‘Excellence’ and a Customer Service Award based on their performance and other awards on the night included:

Winners of the National Off-Licence of the Year Award 2018 are (l-r): Julie Cullen, Tommy Cullen, Paul McGrath & Paul McKenna (Jus de Vine)

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NOffLA Off-Licence of the Year Awards The Montes Best First Time Entrant 2018 – Lilac Wines; The NOffLA Food Retailer Off-Licence of the Year 2018 – Donnybrook Fair, Dublin 4; The El Coto Customer Service Award of the Year 2018 – The Vintry; The Redbreast Spirit Specialist of the Year 2018 – Mitchell & Son CHQ; The Hop House 13 Beer Specialist of the Year 2018 – Baggot Street Wines; The Dona Paula Wine Specialist of the Year 2018 – Gibney’s of Malahide; The Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin Connaught/Ulster Off-Licence of the Year 2018 – McCambridge’s of Galway; The NOffLA Leinster Off-Licence of the Year 2018 – The Wine Centre, Kilkenny; The Hennessy Dublin Off-Licence of the Year 2018 – Martin’s Off-Licence; The NOffLA Munster Off-Licence of the Year 2018 – O’Donovans Off-Licence, Bandon, Co. Cork; The NOffLA RTC Online Trainee of the Year 2018 – Conor McGrath, McHugh’s Off-Licence, Kilbarrack, Dublin 5; The NOffLA Responsible Retailer of the Year 2018 – O’Donovans Off-Licence Group, Cork; The NOffLA National Off-Licence of the Year 2018 – Jus de Vine, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin.

Pictured at the presentation of the Responsible Retailer of the Year Award 2018 are (l-r): Anita Gilmore, NOffLA, and Edwin O’Callaghan, O’Donovans Off-Licence Group.

Judging for the awards began in June 2017, with the ongoing judging process culminating in a blind wine tasting which involved participants answering questions about the unidentified wines.

Final awards were allocated following this process.

Jus de Vine Tommy Cullen, who together with his wife, Julie, owns Jus de Vine in Portmarnock, was surprised to be named National Off Licence of the Year.

“We are open 20 years this year, and we won Off Licence of the Year in 1999 and 2000,” Tommy recalls. “In most of the intervening years, we won an award – we were named Wine Store of the Year 10 times, and we also won Spirit Store of the Year and Dublin Off Licence of the Year, but we’ve been trying for the national title every year. We thought, with the advent of the new kids on the block that maybe our day had passed, so we got the surprise of our lives when we won this year.”

Winning the award means a lot to Jus de Vine. First of all, it brings publicity, as the awards receive a lot of media attention, and it also resonates with customers.

“We have a fairly large sign outside the shop, advertising the win, which

RTC Online Trainee of the Year 2018 Award winner Conor McGrath, from McHugh’s Off-Licence, Kilbarrack, with Gary Mahon, Enovation Solutions.

Pictured at the presentation of the Best First Time Entrant Award, sponsored by Montes, are (l-r): Joy Coyle, Liberty Wines, Padraig Sweeney and the team at Lilac Wines.

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NOffLA Off-Licence of the Year Awards isn’t going to do us any harm with people passing by,” Tommy reveeals. “We have a lot of goodwill from the people of Portmarnock and hopefully we’ll have even more now: maybe those people passing who think ‘I must drop in there sometime’ might just decide to come in and have a look around.”

Customer Service When asked how can an independent off licence compete with the larger stores and multiples operating in the market, Tommy is unequivocal.

“Customer service is key,” he avows. “If you go to any of the larger chains now, you are just another number: you pick your own product and take it to the checkout. Whereas, when people come in here, they tell us they’re going to a party or hosting a party and ask us for advice on what to buy. Maybe it’s somebody’s birthday and they want to give them something a little bit different: we’re able to advise them on what to buy. That is how the independent off licence is surviving.”

Independent off licences also carry a wider range than most supermarkets. “We carry the guts of 800 different wines,” says the store owner proudly, admitting that he’s confident about the future both for Jus de Vine and the independent off licence sector in general. “We are very positive. If you try to do things as well as you possibly can and put as much as you can into it, you will survive. Customer service, customer service, customer service: that’s what it’s all about.”

Public Health (Alcohol) Bill At the Awards ceremony, NOffLA called on the Government to expedite the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill through all stages of the legislative process in the coming weeks.

“As socially conscious independent retailers, NOffLA welcomes the passage of the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill through the Seanad, as it seeks to ensure the highest standards around the purchase, and thus consumption, of alcohol.

That said, NOffLA is concerned by any and all amendments made to the Bill which do not have consumer protection at the core. As such, we are calling on Government to pass the Bill in full at the earliest possible opportunity.”

With Health Minister, Simon Harris TD, planning to delay the introduction of Minimum Unit Pricing pending the formation of a Northern Irish Assembly, NOffLA called on Government to introduce a ban on below invoice cost selling as an interim stop-gap measure.

“The repealing of the Groceries Order in 2008 has resulted in the promotion of irresponsibly discounted branded alcoholic products, driving footfall in multiples where the losses are recouped through the sale of other goods, as well as reclaimed by retailers through VAT, costing the Exchequer €24m per annum,” O’Donovan stated. “A ban on below cost selling would therefore also augment Minimum Unit Pricing in the long-run, and so should be seen as a complementary rather than substitute measure.”

Pictured at the presentation of the Food Retailer Off-Licence of the Year Award 2018 are (l-r): Daragh Cassells; Indre Bikulcyte, Donnybrook Fair, D4; Anita Gilmore, NOffLA; and Chris Gifford, Donnybrook Fair, D4.

Pictured at the presentation of the Customer Service Award of the Year 2018, sponsored by El Coto, are Leslie Williams, The Vintry, and Robert Smith, Mackenway Distributors.

Pictured at the presentation of the Spirit Specialist of the Year Award 2018, sponsored by Redbreast, are (l-r): Ronan O’Neill, Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard, Amy Hemphill & Peter Dunne, Mitchell & Son CHQ.

Pictured at the presentation of the Beer Specialist of the Year Award 2018, sponsored by Hop House 13, are (l-r): Catherine Noakes, Baggot St. Wines; Chris King, Diageo Ireland; Garret Connolly and Alison Noone, Baggot St. Wines.

Pictured at the presentation of the Wine Specialist of the Year 2018 Award, sponsored by Dona Paula, are (l-r): Darlene Wigham, Siobhan Gibney, Gibney’s of Malahide; Tom Gaskin, Santa Rita Estates; and Ann Moran, Gibney’s of Malahide.

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Drinks News New Chair of Irish Spirits Association

BEAM Suntory’s Senior Director of Public Affairs, Aoife Clarke has been appointed chair of the Irish Spirits Association (ISA), the representative body responsible for promoting the interests of the Irish spirits industry. Clarke, who was previously vice-chair of the ISA, will be the first female chair of the Association in its 20-year history. She takes over as chair from John Harte of Donohoes Drink Company. Clarke has extensive experience working in the drinks industry and in public affairs, both in Ireland and internationally. Prior to her current role, she was a senior executive at Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland (ABFI) for over five years. She also worked for the Irish BioIndustry Association and PharmaChemical Ireland. Pat Rigney of the The Shed Distillery, the makers of Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin, has been appointed vice-chair of the ISA.

Guinness Opens the Gate to Non-Alcoholic Lager

THE Brewers at St James’ Gate have introduced Open Gate Pure Brew, a new, full flavoured, non-alcoholic lager. “Consumers shouldn’t have to compromise on taste on occasions when choosing not to drink or to moderate their alcohol intake, so we are excited to be offering more choice with our latest innovation from the Open Gate Brewery,” said Mark Sandys, Global Head of Beer, Diageo. “With Pure Brew, our brewers have developed a great tasting, fully brewed and fully fermented non-alcoholic lager that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with our other great beers. We’re proud to offer beer-drinkers and publicans more choice and we cannot wait for consumers to taste it.” Such is the great taste of the beer, in independent taste tests, over seven in 10 people were surprised to learn that ‘Open Gate Pure Brew’ was a non-alcoholic beer (MMR research, December 2017). With an ABV of 0.5% ‘Open Gate Pure Brew’ is available in 330ml bottles.

New Wine from Brancott Estate Takes Off BRANCOTT Estate is introducing a new lighter New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, Brancott Estate Flight, that’s 20% lighter in calories and 26% lighter in alcohol, but retains the freshness and ripe flavours that are synonymous with Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. Brancott Estate Flight is made using grapes harvested earlier in the season when their sugar levels are naturally lower. Retaining quality and flavour was a key focus when crafting this wine and Brancott Estate Flight has clearly achieved this. Since its first vintage, Flight has won gold medals at international wine competitions against full strength wines. Brancott Estate Flight is available in retail stores throughout country and retails at €15.28 RRP.

Irish Whiskey Renaissance Continues IRISH Whiskey remains the fastest growing spirits category in the world. According to recent CSO figures, the value of whiskey exports from Ireland in the first three quarters of 2017 were up 14% to €412m. The value of Irish Whiskey exports to the US and Canada increased by 15.8% and 21.5% respectively in this period. The number of working distilleries in Ireland has risen from four to 18 in a few years, and during 2017 the Irish Whiskey Association organised five regional whiskey tourism launches to highlight this stunning growth. “We now have distilleries operating in every region of the country, and a growing number of them are opening visitor centres,” said William Lavelle, head of the Irish Whiskey Association. During the last year, a strategy has also been devised to develop branding and digital channels for an All-Island Irish Whiskey Tourism product, which will be rolled out next year.

IWA Opposes Labelling Proposal in PHAB THE Irish Wine Association (IWA) has strongly opposed the labelling proposal in the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill, stating that the draconian measure will have a devastating effect on Ireland’s wine importers. Mandatory cancer warning labels, along with other labelling requirements, will effectively mean an ‘Irish only’ label for all alcohol products sold in the Republic of Ireland, including imported alcohol. The association says that the prospect of wine importers and possibly wine producers printing a label specific for the Irish market, while operating within the free trading block of the European Union, would become a logistical nightmare. The legislation will mean that all Irish bound wine will have to be labelled differently and stored separately in warehouses across the world. This will add to the business costs for wine importers, which might result in higher prices for consumers.

Contains paracetamol.

Always read the label/leaflet.

CHGBI/CHPAN/0089/17

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Vaping

Vape Culture With 150,000 users and growing, the vaping sector looks set for continued expansion in the coming months and years. Are you stocked up on the leading vaping and e-cigarette brands?

IRELAND has approximately 150,000 vapers, according to estimates from Vape Business Ireland (VBI), Ireland’s largest vaping trade association, who believe that the market has the potential for further growth, as many more Irish smokers consider vaping and e-cigarettes as viable alternatives to tobacco products.

Independent academic research has shown vaping products are primarily used as an alternative to smoking, Vape Business Ireland argue. The Healthy Ireland Survey of 2016 showed that 99% of people who use vaping products are former smokers. It also shows just 0.1% of those who never smoked use vaping products.

A HIQA report also acknowledged that 29% of adult Irish smokers who successfully quit smoking used vaping to do so, falling to 18% for nicotine

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Vaping replacement therapies such as gums and patches.

Vape Business Ireland is committed to an open debate about vaping products in Ireland. According to a statement on their website, they believe that “the manufacture, supply, distribution and sale of vaping products must be regulated in a responsible manner, while upholding the principles of consumer choice for adults, particularly for adult smokers who wish to find an alternative to tobacco products”.

“We want to engage with the European Commission to ensure that regulatory and fiscal measures neither unduly restrict the development of this market nor create unfair competition between SMEs active in Ireland and those selling online to Irish consumers from other Member States,” the statement continues.

They estimate that the vaping sector already employs about 300 people directly in Ireland, with many more indirectly employed (retailers etc.).

"We are keen to ensure that regulatory measures – such as a licensing system linked to a fee – neither unduly restricts the development of this market nor creates unfair competition between SMEs active in Ireland in this sector and those selling online to Irish consumers from other jurisdictions," say VBI. A new peer-reviewed clinical trial to be published in the February edition of Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology has shown that the health of people who used e-cigarettes on a regular basis was not impacted negatively.

The 24-month Dutch study, named ‘Evaluation of the Safety Profile of an Electronic Vapour Product Used for Two Years by Smokers in a Real-life Setting’ found that of the 209 individuals that took part, no serious health concerns were reported. The study also showed that nicotine withdrawal symptoms were reduced with the continued use of vaping products.

“The results of the study are very positive and they reaffirm VBI’s position that the HSE needs to start looking at vaping as a viable tool for smoking cessation,” noted Michael Kenneally, director of Vape Business Ireland.

“International studies increasingly prove that the regulation of vaping products must be looked at separately to tobacco regulation. VBI continue to call on the Department of Health and HSE to provide Irish adults looking for an alternative to smoking with factual and clear information on all alternatives to smoking, specifically on Quit.ie”.

In the 2017 Healthy Ireland survey,

the third such report on the health of almost 7,500 people over the age of 15 and living in Ireland, it was found that 37% of Irish people successfully used vaping products to quit smoking, up from 32% in 2016.

Logic In Ireland, e-cigarette sales are continuing to grow, with sales expected to reach €48m in 2017, up 4% versus 2016 (Source: JTI Internal Forecast based on Nielsen Extended Scantrack Jan-Dec 17.

The growth of the vaping category is projected to continue. Importantly, retail will be the key channel for vapers over the next three years, with the obvious benefit of driving footfall in stores. It is critical to know the category so you have the right products available for your customers – see separate panel for advice on maximising your store’s potential.

JTI are continuing to expand their range to meet consumer needs with the launch of a new vanilla flavour for Logic Pro, Orchid Autumn.

JTI is committed to this category.

In 2015, JTI changed the shape of the e-cigarette market, firstly by launching Logic Curv, providing vapers with a superior and convenient vaping experience, with extra reassurance on e-liquid quality.

In 2016, JTI introduced Logic Pro, the new advanced vaping system with no mess, no fuss technology. Logic Pro combines the power and performance of open tanks with the simplicity and convenience of rechargeable, and is

Logic Pro combines the power and performance of open tanks with the simplicity and convenience of rechargeable, and is most suitable for existing adult smokers and vapers with high expectations for performance. most suitable for existing adult smokers and vapers with high expectations for performance.

Last year, JTI entered the growing open tank segment with Logic LQD. Adult vapers demand quality, so Logic LQD has been developed by flavour experts to give existing adult smokers and vapers an enhanced taste experience that meets their expectations and gives you more satisfied customers.

JTI are continuing to expand their range to meet consumer needs and are proud to introduce their new vanilla flavour for Logic Pro; Orchid Autumn.

“We believe life’s too short for boring flavours. That’s why even our vanilla flavour isn’t ‘vanilla’. It has a refined, subtle and creamy taste,” notes a company spokesperson.

The focus on quality, breadth of range, and investments made by JTI has yielded unprecedented success for the brand, with Logic becoming Ireland’s number one electronic cigarette brand in less than 18 months since launch (Source: Nielsen Scantrack Value Share, December 31, 2017).

JTI’s salesforce and customer services team is on hand to provide expert support and advice to help you maximise sales. Orders can be made through JTI Engage, your local JTI trade marketer, cash and carry or you can place an order by calling JTI customer services on (01) 4040200.

ANYTHING BUT VANILLA. LIFE’S TOO SHORT FOR BORING FLAVOURS. THAT’S WHY EVEN OUR VANILLA FLAVOUR ISN’T ‘VANILLA’.

NEW ORCHID AUTUMN FROM LOGIC PRO. Now available in 9 flavours.

IRELAND’S NO.1 E-CIGARETTE BRAND.* *Source: Nielsen Scantrack Value Share 31st December 2017 (Copyright © 2017, The Nielsen Company)

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Vaping Hale Vaping E-liquids and vaping products continue to grow in popularity, now representing a significantly profitable retail category.

According to Vape Business Ireland, around 150,000 people in Ireland use e-cigarettes. The resulting increase in demand for vaping products is driving footfall across the retail sector, with a knock-on effect on sales in other categories.

Hale is one of the leading Irish producers of e-liquids and vaping devices, outselling international brands by 5:1 where choice is available, according to the company. Hale have over 50 dedicated vape shops throughout Ireland, with further locations in the UK and Europe and this number is set to grow to in excess of 200 by 2020.

How to Maximise Your Return on E-Cigarettes Merchandise Correctly Visibility is key: ensure e-cigarettes are located prominently in store, so existing adult smokers and vapers are aware of the choice and range on offer. It is important to keep a clear and tidy display.

Stay Stocked Up It is vital that your merchandising unit remains well stocked to help guarantee repeat visits from loyal customers and maximise profit.

Remember to re-stock each morning and prior to peak traffic times.

Think About your Customers Offering an e-cigarette range alongside traditional tobacco will ensure the store is a one-stop destination for existing adult smokers and vapers.

Education is key to success, maintain Hale Vaping.

Keith Flynn, Hale Vaping Sales Director, pictured with tailor-made POS material.

Hale products are already listed in more than 700 Musgrave, BWG and Barry Group stores nationwide, including SuperValu, Centra, Spar, Mace, Costcutter, QuikPick and Carry Out Off Licences, as well as many independent retailers. Hale offers three different display units to the retailer, accompanied by a large suite of marketing material to enhance their in-store presence.

In addition to product quality and presentation, Hale’s dominance in the market is due to the comprehensive educational plan provided to retailers, supporting conversion of customers – and profits – from tobacco to vaping.

Guided by customer feedback and sales, Hale produces a wide variety of liquids in different strengths and flavours. This facilitates those moving from smoking to vaping, who find they use lower liquid strengths once their nicotine dependency reduces.

“People who want to stop smoking are looking for an excellent tasting,

Educate Your Staff Make sure your staff are well trained on how to educate existing adult smokers and vapers about the e-cigarette category and range stocked in store and stay up-to-date with market information and new product launches.

(Source: JTI Ireland)

Attractive in-store units are available from Hale Vaping.

refined, quality product,” stresses Keith Flynn, Hale Sales Director. “Retailers benefit by offering customers an Irish product that encourages them to reduce smoking, while delivering a healthy cash margin to stockists. We see great growth potential for our products, both in Ireland and abroad and are continually looking for opportunities to expand.”

Smokers are 60% more likely to report success quitting smoking when using e-cigarettes, rather than willpower or nicotine replacement therapies, such as patches or gum, according to a University College London survey (Source: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/ news/news-articles/0514/200514-ecigarettes-help-smokers-to-quit). So it makes sense to use Hale, made in Ireland under the good manufacturing code, with all products EU 2016 compliant. See halevaping.com for more information.

Choose a new flavour...

Hale is 100% Irish-made and owned, delivering the great quality and taste you expect from a Market Leader.

Profit from our experience and generate higher margins as well as increased footfall.

Make the change, today.

Unit 4D, Avonbeg Industrial Estate, Dublin 12. Tel: 01 450 4642

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Focus on HR

Retaining Your Most Valuable Asset: Your Staff

Losing experienced staff to a competitor can be a disappointing and costly experience. The HR Suite provide guidelines to ensuring staff are happy in your organisation.

“I HAVE had a number of key people from my team leave for better paid positions with bigger companies that I just can’t compete with. I’m finding it really difficult to replace them. How can I prevent this from becoming an ongoing problem?”

As we are now fast approaching a state of full employment right across the country, there are many challenges that business owners are certain to have come their way.

As the labour market becomes more competitive, it becomes increasing difficult for companies to attract talented, skilled workers. This, simply, is due to the fact that when we are at or near full employment, it’s a candidate’s market. Candidates can, to a large extent, pick and choose the positions that suit them best, and will consider factors such as pay, benefits, location, development opportunities and work/life balance. This is likely to become a big headache for many employers.

Why Are You Losing Staff?

It’s important for every business to get to the root of why they are losing staff.

Exit interviews are a really good way of collecting this valuable information.

Conducting exit interview with all departing staff will provide you with a wealth of feedback on all aspects of their experience in your organisation and will help you to identify the preventative measures you need to take.

There are a number of side effects to losing valuable staff. The most obvious one is the cost of replacing them.

Advertising, interviewing and assessing can be costly, not to mention the cost of then getting them inducted into the organisation and trained into the role.

There is likely to be, through no fault of the new or replacement employee, some element of a reduction in productivity as the new person gets to grips with the role.

High turnover of staff can have

other negative impacts on a business.

Customers get to know your staff and will no doubt have grown familiar with particular members of your team. This perceived inconsistency may have a negative impact on how your customers engage with your business.

So, in order to avoid this issue as best we can, it is vital that employers invest time and resources in their current staff.

Retaining Staff: Ensuring Consistency Retaining the talented, experienced staff within a company is key to ensuring consistency in your business and continuity of service to your customers.

Easier said than done? Perhaps, but there are some proactive steps that employers can take to retain the team in place, and

There are a number of ways to get buy-in from your employees to remain with you long-term which are often perceived as more valuable to employees than monetary benefits, including performance management, staff development and staff engagement.

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About the Author

THIS advice is provided by The HR Suite, which offers specialist tailored and effective human resources and business solutions to clients throughout Ireland. Caroline McEnery, Managing Director of The HR Suite is a member on the Low Pay Commission and is an Adjudicator in the Workplace Relations Commission. She is also author of 'The Art of Asking the Right Questions', a manager’s toolkit to all HR related tips to proactively manage your team.

For more information, please contact The HR Suite on (066) 7102887 or (01) 9014335 or email info@thehrsuiteonline.com. Website: http://thehrsuiteonline.com.

again are communication and feedback.

Employees want to get feedback on how they are performing. They want to be clear on what is expected of them. They want to hear when they are doing a good job.

An appraisal is an extremely valuable opportunity for an employee to have one-to-one, uninterrupted, undivided attention from their manager to discuss how everything is going and to set goals for the coming period.

Appraisal meetings and appraisal forms can be as simplified or as detailed as you like – you decide what works for your business. They key purpose of appraisals is getting the lines of communication open and setting goals.

Employees who have an input into their own goals for the coming year will be more engaged.

Staff Development Some employers have a perception that providing development opportunities for employees means spending lots of money on training and making big financial commitments in relation to college courses or external certification. This isn’t always the case.

Having a culture of learning, development and promotion doesn’t have to come with a heavy price tag.

You do have to ensure that there are pathways for development within your organisation and room for growth in the company. If there are senior people in your organisation who have worked their way up in the An appraisal is an extremely valuable opportunity for an company, make employee to have one-to-one, uninterrupted, undivided sure they share attention from their manager to discuss how everything is their story. going and to set goals for the coming period.

“

Focus on HR There are a number of side effects to losing valuable staff. The most obvious one is the cost of replacing them. Advertising, interviewing and assessing can be costly, not to mention the cost of then getting them inducted into the organisation and trained into the role.

”

not all are costly ones.

Of course, companies should, where possible, look at introducing benefits where finances allow. These can include benefits such as sick pay, additional annual leave or health insurance cover, which are a valuable factor for employees to take into account when choosing to remain with your company or not.

Outside of these monetary benefits, there are a number of ways to get buy-in from your employees to remain with you long-term. Often, these are perceived as more valuable to employees than monetary benefits.

Performance Management If you don’t already have a formal annual or bi-annual appraisal system in place, you should introduce one. In employee surveys across a multitude of sectors, two things that come up time and time

Staff Engagement Try to engage with staff more. The more your staff are involved with your organisation, the more they feel part of it. This can be done in a number of ways and it’s something that may need a few attempts, as one size will not fit all.

There are a number of initiatives that employees will get on board with. It could be getting involved in a charity event together or even organising an event together. Initiatives such as a group fitness or yoga class or an art

Retaining the talented, experienced staff within a company is key to ensuring consistency in your business and continuity of service to your customers. class can be a great way of getting everyone involved. It’s good to get a good mix of ideas for these initiatives to ensure that they appeal to all of your team. The key thing is to ensure that your staff are engaged with your business in more ways than just simply working.

Before you invest time or money in any staff initiative, you should do your research and consult with staff to ensure that what you are planning will be of value to them. An employee’s perception of value in relation to benefits will depend on a lot of factors such as their age, their family status, their interests, their career goals or their particular needs at that time.

Trying to predict the future labour force will be dependent on a host of factors, many of them external factors out of your control, but by embracing and implementing these approaches, it can pose less risk to you and your organisation.

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Workplace Wellbeing

Employee Wellbeing a Top Priority The KeepWell Mark is a new evidence-based accreditation and award from Ibec to recognise and celebrate organisations who look after the health and wellbeing of their staff.

RESEARCH conducted recently by Ibec amongst 1,000 employees found that 60% of employees are more likely to stay long-term with an employer who shows an interest in their health and wellbeing. It also found that nearly half of those surveyed would leave a job where they perceive an employer not to care about their wellbeing. This data further cements what we already know about the importance of investment in, and a strategic approach to, employee wellbeing.

offers a structured, all-encompassing approach to corporate wellbeing and is the first national set of standards and formal accreditation focusing solely on the health and wellness of staff, and it's backed by business.

A Key HR Tool The accreditation is designed to act as a key tool for your HR and management team, identifying the strengths and weaknesses in your existing approach, and mapping out the way forward, all in line with a national set of standards for Evidence Based Accreditation best practice.

The KeepWell Mark is an evidence-based In the Ibec Autumn 2017 HR survey accreditation and award from Ibec, update, three in five respondents rated designed to recognise and celebrate employee wellbeing as 'very important' the fantastic work that organisations all in their organisation, with 55% over Ireland are doing to look after the highlighting investment in employee health and wellbeing of their people. It wellbeing as a key initiate for retention of staff. While this is indeed positive, the approach in many cases lacks clear direction, as indicated by the fact that only 27% of respondents confirmed that they have a formal strategy in place that relates specifically to employee wellbeing.

Without having a formalised, consistent Minister for Health, Simon Harris TD, is pictured at the approach across the launch of The KeepWell Mark with Ibec’s KeepWell organisation, businesses Team, Sophie Moran, FDI Executive; Kevin McPartlan, are missing out on Director of Prepared Consumer Foods; and Dermot the chance to identify Doherty, Project Manager for the FDI Health Initiative. key trends and areas

of weakness which will inform more meaningful engagement with staff.

A Core Workplace Value “A healthy workforce is vital for us to create a healthy Ireland, so it’s great to see a business representative organisation like Ibec making a significant commitment to promoting wellbeing in the workplace,” noted Minister for Health, Simon Harris TD, at the launch of the KeepWell Mark in September 2017. “We look forward to working in partnership with all stakeholders to make health and wellbeing a core value of workplaces in Ireland.”

Cathriona Hallahan, Managing Director Microsoft Ireland; Minister for Health Simon Harris TD; Danny McCoy, CEO of Ibec; and Olympian athlete Jessie Barr at the launch of The KeepWell Mark.

Speaking about The KeepWell Mark, Ibec CEO Danny McCoy said, “It is really positive to see that workplace wellbeing is high on the agenda of Irish employers and that future increased investment in this area is in the pipeline for a large majority of organisations.”

With talent attraction and retention so key to the continued success of Irish employers, it's crucial that employers remain competitive and maintain an employer of choice status.

Ibec is encouraging companies of all sizes in all sectors to participate in this initiative. For those wishing to get involved, visit www.thekeepwellmark.ie or contact info@thekeepwellmark.ie.

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What’s New NESTLÉ CEREALS SPONSORS GYMNASTICS IRELAND

COCA-COLA LAUNCHES FUZETEA ICED TEA

NESTLÉ Cereals have announced a three year sponsorship deal with Gymnastics Ireland. The sponsorship will help support the Gymnastics Ireland development programme which caters for all ages and levels of abilities. “We are very pleased to become the official sponsor of Gymnastics Ireland. This sponsorship is further confirmation of our belief in supporting an active lifestyle,” said Aisling Curran, Associate Marketing Manager at Nestlé Cereals, pictured with Ciaran Gallagher, CEO of Gymnastics Ireland, and European Medallist, Rhys McClenaghan from Bangor, Co. Down, and National Junior Gymnast, Meg Ryan from Douglas, Co. Cork, at the National Indoor Arena, Blanchardstown.

COCA-COLA has launched the globally successful, premium iced tea brand Fuzetea in Ireland, an exciting fusion of fruit flavours, botanicals and tea in two low sugar variants.

Already established in 40 markets and one of the fastest growing brands in The Coca-Cola Company portfolio, Fuzetea is a unique fusion of tea extracts, fruit flavours and botanicals which deliver a fresh, contemporary taste, offering a refreshing alternative within the iced tea category. Launched with an investment of €500,000, including significant outdoor and online media promotion, two new blends are now available on the Irish market in 500ml PET bottles: Fuzetea Peach with a touch of Hibiscus and Fuzetea Lemon with Lemongrass.

€500K BRAND REFRESH FOR JAVA REPUBLIC JAVA Republic, one of Ireland’s leading coffee suppliers, has invested €500,000 in reinvigorating its brand as it approaches 20 years in business. The company is also investing in several positions across departments including sales, marketing, HR and operations to strengthen and grow its team for the next phase of growth. Java Republic’s brand refresh was conducted to appeal to a new generation of coffee and tea consumers, and stand out amongst an increasingly crowded and competitive market. The significant investment in the business’ look and feel was spent on positioning strategy, brand development, strategic brand review and third party spend. “Even though we have a fresh look, the important things aren’t changing. We’re still Java Republic – a fiercely independent and proudly Irish company,” stressed Managing Director of Java Republic, Grace O’Shaughnessy (pictured).

KITKAT LAUNCHES MUG PROMOTION NESTLÉ’S flagship brand, KitKat has kicked off 2018 in Ireland with a fun promotion introducing a new character: Joe the Mug, a mug who is looking for the perfect partner to spend his drinks break with. Joe the Mug links confectionery and hot drinks as the perfect break partners and features in a new media campaign as well as an on-pack promotion, which gives KitKat consumers the chance to win one of 50,000 thermochromic Joe the Mugs. Each mug has a face on one side and when hot water is poured in, a message from KitKat on the other side of the mug reveals Joe’s favourite kind of break. A code found on the inside of each promotional KitKat wrapper can be entered online to discover if it is a winner.

INNOVATIVE MEATLOAF FROM NI PROCESSOR A NEW meatloaf has been developed and is being launched

by Doherty’s, one of Northern Ireland’s leading producers of chilled and frozen meat products, for retail customers in the Republic of Ireland and the UK. The new 580g meatloaf comes in an oven-ready tray and cooks in 45 minutes for a delicious meal. It’s the most recent in a series of innovative products developed by the family business, based in Derry.

“The main ingredients of the new product are beef (60%) and pork (20%) with herbs and spices. The meat is sourced from longstanding suppliers and is fully traceable,”’ notes Sales Manager, Brian McQuaid.

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Forecourt Focus: News Applegreen January Fuel Sale APPLEGREEN joined the January Sale trend last month, with their ‘Biggest Fuel Sale Ever’! In a bid to help customers beat the January blues and ease their motor fuel expenses after the expensive Christmas season, fuel prices were slashed by 4c per litre on petrol and diesel at all Applegreen stores nationwide, from January 7-9, the first time they’ve held a nationwide fuel sale at all 177 of their forecourts and dealer stations simultaneously.

“At Applegreen, we are committed to providing our customers with ‘Low fuel prices, always’ and we know that January can be a tough time, following the expensive Christmas period and the long wait to get paid at the end of the month, so we wanted to make things a little easier for the motorist thanks to our ‘Biggest Fuel Sale Ever’,” noted Conor Lucey Head of Operations at Applegreen.

Topaz Winner to Bite the Big Apple!

Sandwich Firm Strikes Multi-Million Deal with Forecourt Giant A Newry-based sandwich firm has signed a Stg£5m contract to supply its convenience food range to Topaz forecourts throughout Ireland. Around Noon, which was set up 25 years ago, will now supply its selection of sandwiches, wraps, salads Gareth Chambers, CEO, and fruit pots, Around Noon. under its Scribbles brand, to the fuel giant's Re.Stores in the Republic.

“We are delighted to be working with Topaz to launch a fresh new grab and go range of artisan food,” said Gareth Chambers, CEO, Around Noon.

This new partnership comes shortly after Around Noon announced that it had acquired Londonbased company Chef-in-a-Box in September.

Around Noon, which began as a kitchen table project, now employs over 300 staff, who produce over 60 products.

TOPAZ has revealed that Drogheda’s Tom Griffin is the December 2017 winner of Topaz Play or Park. Tom chose to play his points at his local Topaz in Boyne, Drogheda, and was announced as the lucky winner of an all-expenses paid trip to the city that never sleeps – New York!

Pictured is Richard Pollock, Topaz Loyalty and Tom and his wife, Insights Manager (right) with Sharon and Tom Sharon, will spend Griffin from Drogheda, Co. Louth, the winners of seven nights soaking the December 2017 Topaz Play or Park giveaway up everything that of a trip to New York. the Big Apple has to offer, including return limousine transfers from the airport to the hotel, two tickets to an event at renowned concert venue Madison Square Garden, and a delicious dinner for two at the rooftop restaurant, Gallow Green. They will also experience a spectacular helicopter tour of New York City that will take in the sites of the city from above and enjoy €2,000 spending money to use as they please.

Commenting on his Play or Park win, Tom said: “I couldn’t believe it when I heard that I was the December Play or Park winner! My wife, Sharon, and I flew to New York last summer to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary and now, with thanks to Topaz, we will get to celebrate our 21st wedding anniversary in the Big Apple too. Who knows, at this rate we might have to make it an annual celebratory trip! We are looking forward to the whole experience, but we are particularly excited about the helicopter tour and taking in a show at Madison Square Garden.”

Always FRESH MILK

and the SAME BEANS as our coffee shops

Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie|63

Forecourt Focus: News Topaz Drives Funding for Jack & Jill TOPAZ has revealed the details of a new car raffle that will see much-needed funds raised for its charity partner, the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation. Over a two-month period, customers can pledge their support by purchasing raffle tickets for €5 each and, in turn, will be in with a chance of winning the award winning all-new Seat Ateca SUV, worth approximately €30,000. All proceeds raised via the raffle will go directly to The Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation.

Tickets for the car raffle are available to purchase from sites across the Topaz network and at all 23 Seat dealerships nationwide since February 1. The initiative aims to fund the provision of thousands of home nursing hours much needed by Jack & Jill children and families. The winner of the raffle will be announced in mid-April.

The launch of this initiative coincides with Topaz announcing that it has raised €250,000 to date for the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation, through various fundraising initiatives by Topaz staff and customers, including Small Change for Big Change, The Lego Exchange and Raise a Teacup, along with multiple fundraising events held internally for staff. These campaigns have resulted in the provision of over 15,000 hours of home care nursing to date for the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation.

Pictured are Hugo Jellett, CEO of The Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation, and Judy Glover, Market Director of Topaz (Circle K Ireland), at the launch of Topaz’s car raffle, which will see much needed funds raised for the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation.

“Not only is this car raffle one of our biggest fundraising drives for the Jack & Jill partnership to date, but we are also celebrating the news that €250,000 has been raised to date across the network in support of this vital charity,” said Judy Glover, Market Director, Topaz (Circle K Ireland). “Thanks to Topaz staff and customers for their continued support - the funds that have been raised will enable the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation to continue providing invaluable services to families nationwide. I would like to extend my thanks to our car partner, Seat Ireland, for coming on board at this juncture, enabling us to accelerate towards our fundraising target of €400,000 through the winter raffle incentive.”

Valero Goes ‘On Air’ to Promote Texaco Art Competition A FOURWEEK long television campaign, scheduled to air on RTE, UTV, Channel 4, Sky, TG4 and other channels in the Republic and Northern Ireland, is being undertaken

by Valero Energy (Ireland) A colourful artwork entitled Limited to ‘Tom – Summer’ by Laois student promote Lucy Deegan, the overall winner this year’s in 2017, is one of 10 pieces Texaco chosen to illustrate a campaign Children’s being screened over the coming Art Competition, weeks aimed at attracting entries to this year’s Texaco now in its Children’s Art Competition.

64th year.

Intended to alert parents, students and teachers to the closing date for entries, fixed for Wednesday, February 28, it will be illustrated with artworks by students from locations across Ireland as diverse as Bandon, Belfast, Carlow, Castlewellan, Cork, Galway, Randalstown, Limerick and Waterford.

Available for viewing also on www.texacochildrensart.com, the campaign is described by Valero Energy Ireland Limited Director of Operations, James Twohig, as “one that gives appropriate national recognition to the talent of young artists in this country, in a way that will hopefully attract countless others to enter this year.”

To find out what Costa Express can offer you contact: ROI tel: 021 500 3526 NI tel: 02892 580207

64|Retail News|January / February 2018|www.retailnews.ie

Shelf Life COUNTRY Crest, the north Dublin based family owned agri-business, and Tesco Ireland have confirmed a further extension of their almost 20-year relationship until 2020. Owned by Gabriel and Michael Hoey, Country Crest will continue to supply all potatoes, onions and sweet potatoes to Tesco Ireland’s 149 stores and via online shopping in a deal worth over €60m.

Sheila Gallagher, Commercial Director, Tesco Ireland, is pictured with Michael and Gabrial Hoey, Country Crest.

PRO14 Rugby, The Sunday Times and The Times, Ireland Edition have launched their partnership ahead of the first ever Guinness Pro14 Final at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium on May 26, 2018. The Sunday Times and The Times, Ireland Edition will act as the official media partners for all six games in the Guinness Pro14 Final Series for 2018. Fans of the Guinness Pro14 as well as readers and subscribers of The Sunday Times and The Times, Ireland Edition, will benefit from exclusive offers, bespoke events and premium content as the anticipation intensifies ahead of this season’s showcase game at Aviva Stadium. Meanwhile, ROS Nutrition have become the latest addition to the Guinness Pro14 sponsorship family after their appointment as the Official Nutrition Partner for the Championship for the next two seasons.

KOELNMESSE had a record-breaking year in 2017. At over €350m, the trade fair company’s turnover surpassed that of the previous record year of 2015 by around 10% and once again far exceeded expectations. “We achieved our ambitious growth targets as promised and even added a bit on top,” says Koelnmesse CEO, Gerald Böse, for whom this latest success is symbolic of the “turnaround and sustained growth that the company has achieved in recent years as a result of hard work.”

TAYTO’S core crisp impulse bags have had an Irish upgrade!

Ireland’s No.1 crisp and snacks brand is now showing the flavours ‘as Gaeilge’, including Cheese & Onion - Brioscáin Phrátaí Faoi Bhlas Cáise & Oinniúin; Salt & Vinegar - Brioscáin Phrátaí Faoi Bhlas Salainn & Finéagair; Smokey Bacon - Brioscáin Phrátaí Faoi Bhlas Bagúin Dheataithe; and Prawn Cocktail - Brioscáin Phrátaí Faoi Bhlas Manglaim Cloicheán. The change has come following two years of promotional campaigns featuring the Irish language and now this Irish upgrade to packs is here to stay!

WILLOWBROOK Foods, a leading Northern Ireland company specialising in pre-packed vegetables and convenience meals, has strengthened its position in the Republic of Ireland by securing Stg£2.2 million worth of additional business for 2018, including increasing sales with existing customers and winning new business within the foodservice and retail sectors.

“Strengthening our presence in the Republic of Ireland is central to futureproofing Willowbrook Foods' success, as the market represents a major percentage of our business and huge growth potential," noted Willowbrook Managing Director, John McCann (pictured). As part of the ambitious growth plans, Willowbrook is preparing to open a new state-of-the-art production site in the coming weeks in county Down.

MARY KATE Kelly, aged five, from St Sylvester’s Infant School in Malahide, Co. Dublin, is pictured helping to launch the national GIY and innocent Drinks Big Grow initiative. The GIY and innocent Drinks Big Grow project enables school children across Ireland to grow their own food in the classroom this spring using free growing packs which will be distributed by GIY and innocent. To register for a free pack see https://innocentbiggrow.com.

IRISH gin is expected to go global this year, with exports set to rise significantly, according to Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland (ABFI), which recently released its outlook for 2018. While 2017 marked a breakthrough in term of exports for Irish gin producers, 2018 is set to see Irish gin going global, with exports expected to grow significantly in the US, Canadian, UK and German markets.

TESCO Ireland and its grower, TJ Sheehan from Cork, is set to divert 29 tonnes of red cabbage from waste by temporarily changing the specification to accommodate a bumper crop. The Irish grown red cabbage crop has seen changes to traditional growth patterns as a result of recent weather conditions. Almost three quarters of the red cabbage crop grown by Sheehan’s, Castletownroche, Co. Cork, have reached beyond the regular 1.5kg specification. A temporary specification change saw increased size cabbage heads and altered cabbage portions of the perfect quality crop in stores and online, as a result. Commenting on the bumper growth crop, Sarah Leonard, Fresh Produce Quality Manager, Tesco Ireland, said, “We have no time for waste so we’re constantly looking at ways of helping suppliers avoid good quality, edible food from going to waste.”

PIONEERING healthy food brand Wheyhey is making significant inroads in its mission to revolutionise the way we eat, by securing major funding to drive forward exciting plans for further innovation in 2018. Working with like-minded members of the Adjuvo network, Wheyhey has secured not only Stg£3m of investment but the support of a group of high profile, experienced individuals who have recognised the company’s enormous potential to change the face of food forever, including Giles Turrell, the former CEO of Weetabix, Lance Batchelor, the CEO of Saga and former GM of Amazon, Alan Parker CBE. Founder and CEO of Whenhey, Damien Kennedy (pictured) says: “Receiving such significant backing at this stage in our journey is testament to not only the strength and uniqueness of our products, but also the fact that we are relentless in our pursuit to transform the face of food for the better.”

It’s your Call‌ You

At the IGBF we assist the families of over 300 of your colleagues every month. These families are more unfortunate than ourselves and without your support such assistance would not be possible...

But we still need your help to continue making the difference.

To Donate: ww.igbf.

For Assistance: ww.igbf.ie/help/our_help.html For Queries: info@igbf.ie

Registered Charity No: 6577 Registered Friendly Society No: 1775

l

IRELAND IS MOVING TO PLAIN PACKS BRANDED

PLAIN PACKS

NOW – 28TH SEPTEMBER 2018 Branded products can continue to be sold at retail up to and including 28th September 2018. Both branded and plain packs will be available at the same time during this period.

NEED TO KNOW • Plain packs will appear at various points over the coming months • Both branded and plain packs can be sold up to and including 28th September 2018 • ONLY THE PACKS WILL CHANGE. JTI TOBACCO PRODUCTS WILL STAY EXACTLY THE SAME • We are here to support

FROM 29TH SEPTEMBER 2018

PLAIN PACKS

Only tobacco products in plain packaging can be sold from this date.

JTI IS YOUR KEY PARTNER

For more information, speak to your JTI contact, call 01 404 0240, email customerservices.ireland@jti.com or visit jti.com/ireland This document is for tobacco retailers only and should not be made available to the public nor should it be displayed in any area where it is visible to the public.