Retail News November 2023

NOVEMBER 2023

NEW 100g BUTTER S TICKS

The new game from the National Lottery Draws Mondays & Thursdays Prize limits apply. €2.50 per line. See lottery.ie for Game Rules.

Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie|1

Contents News

That festive feeling IT only feels like weeks since we were talking about the summer time essentials and yet Halloween has to come and gone and all over the country, retailers and their customers are thinking about the Christmas season.

With this in mind, we present our annual Retail News guide to Christmas Stocking, as we reveal the ‘must stock’ items guaranteed to fly off your shelves in the coming weeks across a host of categories, from confectionery to batteries (Page 30), and of course the drinks sector, where we focus on Spirits (Page 44), Beer & Cider (Page 48) and Wine (Page 50).

We also talk to Heineken Ireland’s Off Trade Director, Bart Wijn, about the changing nature of the Irish off trade, the trends driving that change and the continued strong performance of the Heineken Ireland portfolio, as we approach the key festive season (Page 26).

Elsewhere, we report from the Gala Conference and Awards, where the retailer celebrated their 25th anniversary (Page 14), and we reveal the winners of the ECR Ireland Shopper Awards (Page 62), while Linda Hynes, Employment Partner at Lewis Silkin Ireland, looks at the the benefits and challenges for retail employers in deploying AI tools in the workplace and managing employee use of AI tools (Page 76).

Kathleen Belton Editorial & Marketing Director

2

Can convenience retailers learn from Killarney’s ban on single use coffee cups?

3

Aldi announce record sales and customer numbers.

4

Gala reveal Virtual Reality store layout simulator; New guidance for influencers from CCPC and ASAI.

5

Elavon data reveals Ireland spending habits; Abbeyleix wins SuperValu TidyTowns title.

6

Grocery inflation drop drives Irish shoppers in-store; Senior Sustainability Manager at Bord Bia.

7

Retail and FMCG leaders launch LEAD Network in Ireland; SuperValu partner with Too Good To Go.

7

National Lottery

13 EuroDreams is a new game from the

National Lottery, offering a top prize of €20,000 every month for 30 years.

Gala Conference & Awards

14 Gala Retail celebrated their milestone 25th year at their annual conference, which also saw stores and suppliers rewarded at the Gala Excellence in Retailing Awards.

Kerrygold

17 New from Kerrygold, a handy 100g butter stick with the same great Kerrygold taste.

Blas na hÉireann

19 The 2023 Blas na hÉireann Awards

celebrated the very best in Irish food and drink products over a three-day event in Dingle.

Retail News

Waste Management

24 A toolkit designed to take the

uncertainty out of waste segregation in the workplace is now available from MyWaste, Ireland’s official guide to waste.

Retail News Interview

26 Bart Wijn, Off Trade Director, Heineken Ireland, discusses the challenges and opportunities facing Ireland’s off trade as we head into the busy Christmas season and beyond.

Christmas Stocking 30 The annual Retail

News guide to Christmas Stocking, including Essentials for your shelves (Page 30), and our Christmas Drinks guide to the best in festive Spirits (Page 44), Beer & Cider (Page 48) and Wine (Page 50).

30

Irish Wine Show Star Awards

60 The National Off-Licence Association

recently awarded their Irish Wine Show Star Awards to 54 wines.

ECR Ireland Conference & Shopper Awards

62 The ECR Ireland Conference and

Shopper Awards saw some of the most successful FMCG campaigns of the last year recognised for their effectiveness.

Payment Solutions

74 Delia Pedersoli, COO of MultiPay Global

Solutions, advises retailers how new payment systems can help to bring cost savings, while improving Customer Experience in-store.

Employment Law

76 The benefits and challenges for retail

employers in deploying AI tools in the workplace and managing employee use of AI tools.

Regulars & Reports

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Drinks News

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Tobacco Products

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Forecourt Focus: News

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What’s New

2|Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie

News

Can convenience retailers learn from ban on single use coffee cups?

THE organiser of a scheme to ban the use of single-use coffee cups in Killarney has encouraged convenience stores and retail groups to get on board. Since disposable coffee cups began to be phased out in the Kerry town in July 2023, “over 50 businesses” have joined the scheme and consumers are “highly supportive”, according to Killian Treacy of Luna Deli and Wine in the town.

“From what I've heard [from grocers and supermarkets] over the last few weeks and months since we started this project, there's definitely an appetite to get on board,” Treacy told Retail News. “The sooner the better, because once supermarkets and convenience stores are on board, that's another tailwind for the project and it supports the independent coffee shops who are making this brave step.”

The Killarney Coffee Cup Campaign began following the annual county cleanup by KWD, a municipal and commercial waste disposal company in the region.

Treacy participated in the voluntary clean-up alongside his sister, Ciara Treacy, and Louise Byrne, both of whom work for local hotels. The three were “shocked” to discover that out of all the litter they found, “coffee cups were the highest proportion”.

According to the campaign, the Kerry town was going through over a million single use coffee cups a year. “I'm not saying that Killarney or Kerry was flooded with litter, but of the litter we found, coffee cups and lids were a high proportion,” said Treacy. “So we thought an easy solution would be to get rid of the paper cups. Then you are stopping it at the source.”

The campaigners were galvanised by the Government’s incoming latte levy and the legislative end goal to entirely phase out single use cups. The so-called latte levy, part of the Circular Economy Act, will add 20 cents on single-use cups for hot drinks. A spokesperson for the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications explained: “An environmental levy on single use cups is being introduced to incentivise people to choose to re-use and to help reduce single use waste. Customers who choose to purchase their hot drink in a single use cup will be charged the levy. Customers who purchase their hot drink in a reusable cup

Killian Treacy of Luna Deli and Wine, Killarney, one of the instigators of the move to ban single use cups in the Kerry town.

will not be charged.”

Treacy and the other campaigners raised their idea among other coffee shop business owners in Killarney and then held a town hall meeting in May. On July 31, following a two-week campaign, the ban on single use coffee cups began. Consumers who wish to take away coffee in the town must either bring their own cup or pay a €2 deposit for a 2GoCup (which can be rebated for €2 in any participating business or swapped for a clean cup).

Three months into the campaign, Treacy said it has been a success: “Over 50 businesses are now involved. That's a range of coffee shops, restaurants, hotels.

There's even a manufacturing company in Killarney who decided people working there are not allowed to bring in single use cups. Customers and locals here in Killarney are rowing in behind us as well.

They're supportive and they know why we're doing this. They know that it makes sense and they're really proud of it, I would say, which is great to see.”

Convenience stores, symbol groups and supermarkets have yet to sign up, which Treacy puts down “to the fact these are huge national companies and unlike individual, independent coffee shops and hotels here in Killarney, they can't make a

decision overnight like independents can.

They have hoops and chains of command to jump through. We're confident they're going to see the advantages of this in the medium to long term.”

Treacy told Retail News that alongside the campaign’s environmental imperative, it has led to a cost reduction for participating businesses. “Supermarkets or convenience stores have bins that fill up with paper cups and there's a cost to that. The paper cups themselves are a significant cost to a coffee shop every year, whether they're supplied by the chain or not. So we're advocating a good cost saving in the long run.” The campaign, he insists, also enhances the town’s brand: “I'm on the till here in Luna most days and locals love it. They're so proud of us.” Visitors to Killarney, he said, are in agreement.

The wider grocery industry, however, is sceptical of the Killarney campaign.

The Irish Paper Packaging Circularity Alliance (IPPCA) recently produced a report assessing the proposed levy on single use cups. The levy and ultimate banning of coffee cups would, according to economist Jim Power, lead to job losses, increased costs and the closure of businesses.

But Treacy insisted that none of these effects have been seen in Killarney: “We're

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News

Killarney’s not seeing any reduction in sales.” The plastic bag levy, he pointed out, did not stop people shopping. “People thought no one would go to pubs any more when we introduced the smoking ban. We've shown time and time again we're adaptable and we can get on board with most things. Something as logical as this - people are keen on it.”

Tara Buckley, Director General of RGDATA, suggested the campaign would face stumbling blocks if rolled out on a national stage: “It’s fine when you take the businesses in one town, but remember the fierce competition between everyone in the convenience sector. You're not just dealing with individual shops; you're dealing with multiples and symbol groups. Getting them all on the one page is going to be a very big challenge.”

Buckley called for a thorough report on the Killarney Coffee Cup Campaign, which would include consumer research as well as retailer perspectives. “Did consumers like it?

Did they engage with it? Did they complain?

Did it make them change their practices?

Sometimes when you do something just in one town, it might give you a slightly skewed view as to how possible it would be to do it nationwide on a voluntary basis.”

Vincent Jennings, CEO of CSNA, said his association had signed up to the Cup Collective, a mass paper cup recycling scheme in which disposable cups are collected on-site in a dedicated collection bin, sorted and sent to a recycling facility to be made into new paper products.

However, it is unlikely this scheme will escape the latte levy in its current form. A Department of Environment spokesperson said the Government is currently working with the Revenue Commissioners “to agree a collection model and alternative approaches are being considered for the collection of the levy”. The levy, he said, “will apply to all single use disposable cups, including those described as recyclable, biodegradable or compostable.”

The Killarney Coffee Cup Campaign, noted Treacy, bypasses the legislation “and provides a solution to customers that keeps the cost of coffee the same. We wanted to take this matter into our own hands. There will be no levy on single use cups here in Killarney - because there will be no single use cups here.”

Aldi announce record sales and customer numbers ALDI revealed their financial results for 2022, outlining another year of record sales and customer numbers, despite overall profitability for the period being down as the company’s price shielding strategy and increased cost base impacted margin.

This is the third successive set of annual results Aldi have published in Ireland, becoming the first supermarket to do so in 2021. In the 12 months to December 2022, Aldi’s turnover in Ireland grew by 1.1% to €2.032 billion, up €24 million on 2021.

The company said their profit reduction in 2022 reflects the retailer’s ongoing focus on balancing the considerations of colleagues, customers, over 330 Irish suppliers and the company.

During the trading period, inflation increased by an unpreceded 15% in 2022, which is reflecting rising wages, higher energy costs, and rising input prices among suppliers (Source: Kantar, 12-week data, December 25, 2022 v December 26, 2021).

The retailer’s footprint increased again in 2022 with six additional stores opened in Caherciveen, Clonakilty, Ballina, Tuam, Mountbellew and Ardee, while store refurbishments Niall O’Connor, Group Managing Director, Aldi were completed in Dungloe, Ireland.

Blessington, Greystones, Killorglin and Elysian Cork. Their number of stores nationwide now stands at 160, with plans continuing to increase this further.

Highlighting changing customer behaviours over the trading period, Aldi referenced independent analysis which identified a number of notable changes in consumer purchasing trends as shoppers sought to manage the challenges presented by inflation.

People are shopping around more regularly, but buying less, with more consumers choosing to purchase own label brands rather than eliminating the product entirely from their shop. The retailer notes that there has been a 7% swing in favour of own label products during 2022, which complements the discounter, as over 95% of Aldi's range is own label (Source: Kantar, 4-week data, January 22, 2023 v January 23, 2022.

“2022 was the year that solidified the changing nature of how we shop,” noted Niall O’Connor, Group Managing Director, Aldi Ireland. “Households, gripped by higher living costs, now buy more own label and smaller pack sizes, shop more often but buy less, and with an even greater emphasis on value. In this climate, Aldi’s ‘we won’t be beaten on price’ commitment continued to resonate, reflected in our rising sales and customer numbers in 2022.”

He went on to note how research indicates that “families are struggling with higher costs on multiple fronts, making it more important than ever that we stay shoulder-to-shoulder with them. Through the ongoing expansion of our store footprint, we remain committed to offering the best value convenient to shoppers in every part of the country. In a community where an Aldi store opens, shoppers benefit from €78,000 each month in grocery savings, while our suppliers benefit monthly to the tune of €1.7 million.”

Meanwhile, Aldi were named ‘Retailer of the Year’ at the FreeFrom Awards for the second year running and took home a total of 44 awards across 21 categories, including 13 gold awards, seven silvers, 17 bronze awards and six merits.

4|Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie

News Gala reveal Virtual Reality store layout simulator GALA Retail have announced the unveiling of a pioneering virtual reality store layout simulator, believed to be one of the first in Europe.

Representing a first-of-its-kind initiative within the convenience retail industry in Ireland and Europe, Gala Retail have invested almost €100,000 in cutting-edge technology to enhance the store planning experience for retailers, maximising every square foot of retail space. The technology also enables new Gala retailers to have an immersive experience when visualising what their future Gala store could look like.

“At Gala Retail, we are committed to providing our retailers with tools that help empower their success. This groundbreaking simulator not only showcases the potential of Gala stores but also underpins Gala Retail's commitment to fostering innovation within the convenience retail sector,” comments Gary Desmond, CEO at Gala Retail.

The technology was first available for Gala retailers to try out at the annual Gala Conference, where the Gala group celebrated their 25th year in business and outlined their steadfast commitment to retail excellence.

The new VR simulator, developed in collaboration with Irishbased technology group, Mersus Technology, allows retailers to step into the future via a simulated Gala store environment. This state-of-the-art technology has been designed to breathe life into new store layouts, enabling retailers to visualise and navigate a Gala store right from the initial planning stages. By leveraging this innovative simulator, retailers gain valuable insights into their store’s potential, demonstrating how strategic refurbishments can boost turnover and profits through intelligent space utilisation and the integration of advanced concepts.

"Our virtual reality simulator goes beyond conventional planning methods,” explained Siobhan Grimes, Retail Operations Manager, Gala Retail. “It offers a transformative experience, allowing retailers to explore the future of their Gala store in a remarkably immersive way. By embracing this cuttingedge technology, we aim to revolutionise the way our retailers conceptualize and plan their stores, driving growth and innovation within the Gala family.”

Pictured from Gala Retail are Aoife Finn and Gary Desmond, CEO at Gala Retail, and front row, Siobhan Grimes, Retail Operations Manager.

New guidance for influencers from CCPC and ASAI THE Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) and the Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland (ASAI) have published fresh guidance for Irish influencers on the clear labelling of ads on social media. The comprehensive and accessible guidance addresses paid promotion, items ‘gifted’ by brands or PR agencies, and the advertising of own-brand products and services.

The joint guidance has been developed following extensive research, including experiments with eye-tracking technology and a survey of 500 social media users. A number of influencers were also asked to review the new guidance and provide feedback to the CCPC. Key points of the new guidance include: • Use the hashtag #Ad; • Hashtags must be instantly visible to consumers; • Posts about own brands must also be labelled as advertising; • A number of different hashtags (#IWorkWith, #OwnBrand) are currently used by influencers to indicate advertising. For the avoidance of confusion, all commercial content should now be labelled #Ad (or #Fógra for Irish-language posts).

“Our research found that consumers consistently overestimated their ability to identify influencer advertising,” revealed Kevin O’Brien, Member of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission. “This guidance will support influencers to comply with their obligations under the law so that consumers know when they are being advertised to. It is in everybody’s interest for influencers to be honest with their audience and transparent about their advertising.

CCPC research found that many consumers felt misled after purchasing an item on the advice of an influencer, and that levels of trust in influencers generally are very low. Clear labelling benefits everyone. It is an offence to mislead a consumer, and influencers who fail to comply with Ireland’s consumer protection legislation may be subject to enforcement action up to and including prosecution.”

Orla Twomey, Chief Executive at the Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland, said: “Consumers shouldn’t have to question if and when they are being advertised to – it should be instantly clear. The guidance takes account of developments in influencer marketing and provides clear and straightforward guidance for influencers and brands they work with, on how to correctly and clearly label and disclose advertising content on their social media channels, to ensure that consumers are not misled.”

The publication of this guidance coincides with a major month-long review of influencer content conducted by the European Commission and national authorities including the CCPC, which began on October 27.

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News

Elavon data reveals Ireland's spending habits 85% of people in Ireland mainly still shop in-store for groceries, while only 8% do their grocery shop online, according to new data commissioned by Elavon Merchant Services, a leading global payments provider.

The data also reveals about the same percentage of people (83%) also mainly buy their household products in-store, while almost seven in 10 get their furniture and home decorations (69%), and more than half the population purchase beauty products (52%) mainly in-store.

Conversely, more than a third of those in Ireland (37%) mainly shop online for toys and games, while about the same number (36%) shop for those products mainly in-store, and just over a quarter (27%) wherever is convenient.

“Elavon’s data reveals people in Ireland still prefer to shop for a lot of products mainly in-store,” says Hemlata Narasimhan, Elavon Merchant Services President in Europe. “It’s essential for merchants to understand how their customers want to shop and pay, and to meet those needs. That’s where Elavon can help – with

online, in-store, or both.”

1082 people in Ireland were asked in an online survey “Which of the following best describes the way you regularly shop for the following items for different items over the last 12 months.”

Research commissioned by Elavon, undertaken by Yonder Consulting from March 8-14, 2023.

Abbeyleix wins SuperValu TidyTowns title ABBEYLEIX, Co. Laois was named as Ireland’s Tidiest Town as well as Ireland’s Tidiest Small Town, at the SuperValu TidyTowns Awards 2023.

Over 600 TidyTowns volunteers were present at the SuperValu TidyTowns awards ceremony at Croke Park in Dublin with the event live-streamed to thousands more online.

This year, 887 towns were competing for the prestigious awards, demonstrating the continuing huge national interest in the SuperValu TidyTowns competition, which has been running since 1958.

SuperValu have been the competition’s main sponsor for over 30 years, and Ian Allen, Managing Director of SuperValu, announced the results with Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD. Some of the other big winners on the day included Geashill, Co. Offaly, which was awarded Ireland’s Tidiest Village; Killarney, Co. Kerry, which was named Ireland’s Tidiest Large Town; and Ballincollig, Co. Cork, which was awarded Ireland's Tidiest Large Urban Centre.

“SuperValu have been a loyal supporter and sponsor of the competition for over 30 years and continue to champion

sustainability through their supportive network of retailers countrywide,” noted Minister Humphreys. “Their team has worked very closely with my Department to make sure that this competition continues to be a success.”

Ian Allen, Managing Director of SuperValu, noted: “As a community retailer, it is a source of great pride for us at SuperValu to be involved in such an incredible initiative.

For more than three decades, our teams and dedicated local SuperValu retailers have worked hand in hand with the Department of Rural and Community Development to develop and grow the SuperValu TidyTowns competition. The competition has become a powerful and uniting force, bringing together people from communities all over the country, working towards a common cause, and, critically, caring for our environment.”

The SuperValu MD stressed how the competition has succeeded in not only making our towns and villages more attractive but more sustainable too: “This is evident in the increased focus on initiatives that have a powerful impact on biodiversity, such as the development of pollinator friendly corridors and rewilding outdoor areas.”

Pictured are Ian Allen, Managing Director of SuperValu; Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD; and the Abbeyleix Tidy Town committee celebrating winning the Overall Ireland’s Tidiest Town for 2023 as well as the Ireland’s Tidiest Small Town at the SuperValu TidyTowns awards 2023.

6|Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie

News Grocery inflation drop drives Irish shoppers in-store TAKE-home grocery sales in Ireland increased by 8.5% in the four weeks to October 1, 2023, according to the latest Kantar data. Shoppers visited stores more often, up 5.9%, and made an average of 20.5 trips. As consumers look for ways to manage household budgets, volumes per trip continued to decline compared to last year, down 7.3%, with shoppers picking up on average one pack less per month.

Grocery price inflation, which stands at 10.5% in the 12 weeks to October 1, is the main driving factor behind the rise in value sales rather than increased purchasing. Over the latest 12 weeks, average prices rose by 8.7% year-on-year. “It’s more welcome news for shoppers that inflation has fallen for the fifth month in a row – from last month’s 11.3%.

Although there is promise in the current trajectory and this marks the lowest level of inflation we have seen since September 2022, the fact is that inflation still remains high,” explained Emer Healy, Business Development Director at Kantar.

She pointed out that the level of products sold on promotion is down 3.3% since 2020: “Back in 2020, 27.7% of sales were on promotion versus 24.4% this year.”

Own label goods remained popular in the latest 12 weeks, with sales up 11.5% compared to brands, which have grown by 5.1%.

Value own label ranges continue to see the strongest growth at 13%, with Irish shoppers spending an additional €7.7 million yearon-year in a bid to save money and control how much they are spending. Own label holds 47.9% share, with branded value share at 46.8%, the highest share seen for branded products since June 2022.

Warmer than usual weather meant purchases of winter staples were put on hold for another month, according to Emer: “Barbecues stayed out longer than usual and, as a result, Irish shoppers spent an additional €860k on chilled burgers and grills, €538k on chilled prepared salads, and €2.4 million on ice cream.

But with Halloween fast approaching, shoppers were unable to avoid supermarkets filled with seasonal treats and spent an additional €3.9 million on take-home confectionery.”

Online sales remained strong over the 12-week period, up 25.2% year-on-year, with shoppers spending an additional €36.1

million online year-on-year. The period saw more frequent trips, up 5.6%, and a boost of new shoppers venturing to the online platform, which is a 1.83 percentage points increase, with 18% of Irish households now purchasing their groceries online.

Dunnes Stores claim 23.3% of the market, with growth of 10.5% year-on-year, driven by a strong boost in new shoppers, up 3.24 percentage points year-on-year, which is the biggest increase in new shoppers amongst all the retailers.

Tesco hold 22.5% of the market, with growth of 11.3% yearon-year. Tesco saw the strongest frequency growth amongst all retailers again, up 15.8% year-on-year, which contributed an additional €94.1 million to overall performance.

SuperValu maintain 20.6% of the market, with growth of 4.5% which is a 0.5 percentage point increase versus last month.

SuperValu shoppers make the most trips in store compared to other retailers, an average of 21.7 trips, and pick up more volume per trip, contributing an additional €5.9 million to their overall performance.

Lidl claim 13.5% share and growth of 11% year-on-year. More frequent trips contributed to an additional €43.2 million to overall performance. Aldi hold 12.3%, with growth of 4% year-on-year. A strong boost in new shoppers and more frequent trips contributed an additional €27 million to overall performance.

Senior Sustainability Manager at Bord Bia BORD Bia have announced the appointment of Martin Hofler to the position of Senior Sustainability Manager.

In his new role, Martin will be responsible for overseeing and managing the company/ manufacturing portion of the Origin Green programme, the national programme driving sustainable improvement in the Irish food and drink sector. As Senior Sustainability Manager, he will continue to drive Origin Green’s ambition to enable the manufacturing industry to set and achieve measurable sustainability targets that respect the environment and serve local communities.

“I’m excited to commence my new role as Senior Sustainability Manager at Bord Bia and continue working with teams across Bord Bia to guide businesses towards sustainable practices and reducing their environmental footprint in an important time for climate action,” Martin noted. “I would like to thank the team in Bord Bia for their support and I look forward to continuing the development of greater sustainable practices in the Irish food, drink and horticulture industry.”

Martin Hofler, Senior Sustainability Manager, Bord Bia.

Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie|7

News Retail and FMCG leaders launch LEAD Network in Ireland INDUSTRY leaders and competitors across the retail and FMCG sector have come together for an inspirational cause, to launch the first Ireland Chapter of the Leading Executives Advancing Diversity (LEAD) Network. Coming to Irish shores for the first time, LEAD’s goal is to attract, retain and advance women in the retail and consumer goods industry through education, leadership and male allyship.

Since originally being established in 2011, LEAD has grown astronomically to more than 18,000 members, 10 country chapters, with 200+ manufacturers and 100+ retailers all working to bring about gender equality at all levels of the industry.

Membership of LEAD is free and members are invited to join a host of events, networking opportunities and best practise sharing designed to support peer-to-peer learning, as well as ultimately achieving gender balance in the sector.

LEAD’s new Ireland chapter committee involves representatives from across the industry working together, including Kellanova (formerly Kellogg’s), Musgrave, Lidl, Unilever, P&G, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Nestle, Kraft Heinz, Bank of Ireland, Haleon, Danone and Valeo Foods.

The LEAD Ireland chapter launch event took place on November 14, hosted

by LinkedIn, and included key speakers like Grainne Seoige, Allyson Zimmerman (CEO, LEAD), Deborah Somorin (People & Experience Lead, EY), Nelofar Pazira (Journalist & Filmmaker) and David McRedmond (CEO, An Post).

“The LEAD Network organisation has had an incredible impact across Europe so far, and I’m excited about the prospect of building upon the wonderful work that is already in place in Ireland,” said Allyson Zimmerman, CEO from LEAD. “I know that together we can continue to serve as the voice of the industry and achieve our vision of a gender-equal future.”

Speaking about the launch of the Ireland chapter, LEAD Ireland Co-Chair and Head of Kellanova Ireland, Sarah Ferguson, commented: “This is such an exciting moment as we collectively come together across the Irish FMCG and retail industries to drive the advancement of women. We want to create a network that effects change at an individual, company and industry level, resulting in a sector that represents the population that we serve, across all levels.”

Jane McEvoy, LEAD Ireland Co-Chair and Multichannel Manager, Musgrave, added: “It's a real privilege to be involved in launching the LEAD Network Ireland

Pictured at the launch of the first Ireland Chapter of the LEAD Network are LEAD Ireland Co-Chairs: Sarah Ferguson, Head of Kellanova Ireland, and Jane McEvoy, Multichannel Manager, Musgrave.

Chapter. It's a brilliant opportunity for companies and brands to come together and embrace the power of women in retail and FMCG and drive real tangible action.

I'm excited by what’s possible and really looking forward to leveraging best-in-class international practices and leading the way with a programme of innovative events and initiatives to help individuals to rise and lobbying industry leaders to commit to change targets.”

For more information visit www.lead-eu.net.

SUPERVALU have announced a partnership with food waste management company Too Good To Go, in a bid to tackle food waste, while also offering value to customers. Initially, the partnership will see 33 SuperValu stores take part, before being rolled out nationwide over the coming months.

Through thehave Too Good To Go partnership, will have the chance to purchase a Surprise Bag of surplus food from SUPERVALU announced a partnershipcustomers with food waste participating SuperValu at aTo lower price.

Surprise Bag will include fresh products approaching their use-by date, and can management companystores, Too Good Go, in a bidThe to tackle food waste, include a selection of chilled meats, dairy, fruit and vegetables, salads, sandwiches, ready meals and bakery items, which can be easily while also offering value to customers. Initially, the partnership will see ordered for collection select number of rolled SuperValu stores through 33 SuperValu storesfrom takeapart, before being out nationwide over the Too Good To Go app. The Surprise Bag is available at two price or €5.99 and includes a range of products at a third of the price. thepoints, coming€4.99 months.

“AtThrough SuperValu committed to bringingcustomers sustainability every thewe Tooare Good To Go partnership, willinto have the area of our business and making it easier for our shoppers to make more Allen,food Managing Director of SuperValu. “We are continuously enhancing our practices to reach chance tosustainable purchase a choices,” Surprise noted Bag ofIan surplus from participating ourSuperValu targets. Food waste something we are continuously to minimise and bring awareness to through SuperValu’s Local Action, stores, at aislower price. The Surprise Bag willtrying include fresh Global Impact campaign. their SuperValu’s partnership Too Good To Go of will help reduce food waste from our network while also ensuring products approaching use-by date, and canwith include a selection quality products can still reach shopperssalads, who can obtain products chilled meats, dairy, fruit and our vegetables, sandwiches, ready at great value. We look forward to expanding this partnership across fullbakery footprint over the coming mealsour and items, which can be months.” easily ordered for collection from a select number of SuperValu stores through the Too Good To Go app.

The Surprise Bag is available at two price points, €4.99 or €5.99, and includes a range of products at a third of the price.

“At SuperValu we are committed to bringing sustainability into every area of our business and making it easier for our shoppers to make more sustainable choices,” noted Ian Allen, Managing Director of SuperValu. “We are continuously enhancing our practices to reach our targets. Food waste is something we are continuously trying to minimise and bring awareness to through SuperValu’s Local Action, Pictured are Philip McDonough, SuperValu, Patrick Global Impact campaign. SuperValu’s partnership with Too Good To McKinney, Too Good To Go, and Rachel Murphy, Go will help reduce food waste from our network, while also ensuring Duty Manager, SuperValu Blessington, as SuperValu quality products can still reach our shoppers who can obtain products announce their partnership with food waste at great value. We look forward to expanding this partnership across management company Too Good To Go. our full footprint over the coming months.”

SuperValu partner with Too Good To Go

8|Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Industry News SuperValu Togher opens after €7.5 million revamp LIAM Ryan’s new look SuperValu store in Togher, Co. Cork, has opened following a significant investment of €7.5 million.

Ryan’s SuperValu currently employs 85 people, and the store revamp will create an additional 20 jobs in Togher and the surrounding areas. The new look SuperValu, which launched on October 27, offers an extended range of top-quality produce, including brand new, expertly-led deli, butcher and fishmonger counters, an expanded bakery range, and Ryan’s own prepared meal range ‘The Supper Pot’.

The state-of-the-art store also offers a more modern and spacious shopping experience, as well as a much anticipated new in-store café. “We are delighted to be opening our new look store after significant investment and much hard work from the team,” noted delighted store owner, Liam Ryan (pictured). “The new state-ofthe-art store will be a shining example of the best that SuperValu has to offer and has been designed to be as environmentally friendly as possible.”

Lidl sign €1.5 million deal with Begleys LIDL Ireland are thrilled to announce a new deal with Irishbased fresh fruit and vegetables supplier, Begleys Fresh Produce Group, valued at €1.5 million. This new deal has resulted in Begleys growing their workforce by eight full-time workers as the supplier expands their sprouts and pumpkins supply to Lidl stores nationwide this autumn. Begleys grew a range of vibrant pumpkins and gourds, from small to extra-large, just in time for the Halloween season at Lidl. Pictured are James O’Regan, Commercial Director at Begleys, with Kyle Carrick and Brian Carrick, growers at Begleys, based in Rush, Co. Dublin.

Centra gets Snappy on home delivery SNAPPY Group, the technology business behind Snappy Shopper, the fast-growing grocery and convenience store delivery app, have announced a new strategic partnership with Centra which will see Snappy develop and power the new home delivery app, Centra Go. The Centra Go app will offer shoppers a complete in-store shopping experience from the convenience of their own home, with unique features including bespoke categories, deli counter ordering and updated order alert preferences, connecting Centra stores and their customers like never before. “Shoppers will be able to order from thousands of grocery and deli product lines, from chicken fillet rolls to kitchen rolls, all now available as part of the online delivery trial,” noted Ian Allen, Centra Managing Director (right), pictured with driver Paolo Di Giovambattista, and Breda Cahill, owner of Centra Ballinteer.

Ireland’s Fittest Family back on TV IRELAND’S Fittest Family is back on RTÉ One since Sunday, October 29, proudly sponsored by leading community retailer, Londis. Now in its 11th season, veteran coach and co-creator of the hit television show, Davy Fitzgerald, is teasing the most competitive season so far. The added competition for Davy’s crown as the residing champion coach is the addition of former World Champion and Olympic silver medallist Sonia O’Sullivan to the roster, alongside Davy Fitzgerald, Nina Carberry and Donncha O’Callaghan this season. She is joined in making her debut on the show by new host, RTE 2FM presenter, Laura Fox. “It’s great to be back with such an amazing lineup of coaches and with our longstanding partner, Londis,” noted Davy, while Conor Hayes, Londis Sales Director, explained how “The show is a great fit for our values at Londis, with its focus on family and communities nationwide, as well as the platform it provides us to promote a healthy and active lifestyle.”

Folláin celebrate €1.8 million Aldi partnership ALDI Ireland have agreed a new €1.8 million contract extension with Folláin, a leading Irish supplier of preserves, currently supplying Aldi Ireland with a range of relish, chutney and sauces. Folláin, a family-owned company in West Cork, trace their roots back to 1983 when they first introduced their batch of grapefruit marmalade using a 100-year-old recipe that had been passed down through family generations. “The products we create for Aldi are specifically developed with the tastes and preferences of Irish shoppers in mind, ensuring that the finished product is the absolute best it can be,” noted Pat O’Farrell (left), Commercial Manager at Folláin, pictured with Laurence Kelly, Buying Director at Aldi Ireland.

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Industry News Lucy Kennedy & Benecol to test the nation’s cholesterol BENECOL, the heart-loving food brand, relaunched its ‘What’s Your Number?’ campaign for the second consecutive year, with Lucy Kennedy at the forefront as brand ambassador. The campaign aims to support heart health and raise awareness of the issue of high cholesterol, which affects one in two Irish adults and, if untreated, can contribute to coronary heart disease. Benecol ran a free cholesteroltesting day on October 17 in selected Hickey’s and AllCare pharmacies nationwide, while for those who don’t have a participating pharmacy location nearby, free home tests were available via post. The full range of Benecol products, spreads, drinks and yogurts, are available in all major Irish retailers.

Monster appearance by World Superbike Champion

COCA-COLA HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland, alongside their partner Monster Energy, recently officially opened a new £17 / €20 million canning line at their production facility in Knockmore Hill, Lisburn. World Superbike Champion, Jonathan Rea (pictured), who is a Monster sponsored athlete, was onsite to officially cut the ribbon and celebrate the achievement with employees. The new canning line represents the single largest investment since the production facility opened in 2008, with 35 new permanent roles created as part of the expansion. The extension adds an additional 4,597 square metres to the facility, covering manufacturing, warehousing and logistics.

Lidl and Bewley’s join forces to create the perfect cuppa LIDL Ireland have announced a collaboration with Bewley’s which will see the iconic tea makers supply Lidl stores nationwide under the retailer’s award-winning own brand, Fallon’s Tea. Bewley’s have worked closely with Lidl Ireland to reformulate the taste, flavours and aromas of Lidl’s own brand tea blends, creating the perfect range of Fallon’s tea bags at an affordable price. The reformulation and redesign of the Fallon’s range not only offers great taste and quality, but it also makes Fallon’s teabags biodegradable when placed in the food-waste bin. Pictured (L-R): Rebecca Buchanan, Senior Buyer, Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland, and Mary McBride, Head of Retail, Bewley’s Tea and Coffee Ltd.

Wexford Spreads to Northern Ireland AWARDwinning jam, marmalade and preserves brand Wexford Home Preserves has announced that it is now being distributed in Northern Ireland through Marketing Services. “Our customers know they can rely on us to deliver the very best to them – products that will delight customers and that are good for business. We are happy to say that Wexford Home Preserves meets our criteria and we look forward to a flourishing working relationship with them,” noted Simon Cooke of Marketing Services NI. “We are delighted that our little family business has now reached all of the island of Ireland,” said Laura Sinnott, co-owner of Wexford Home Preserves, pictured with Kieran Sloan of Sawers.

Health pioneer launches multinutrient drink

THE visionary founder of MyProtein, Oliver Cookson, has launched Verve V80, a pioneering new product that makes it easy to transform your daily health habits with a simple multinutrient drink. Verve V80 is set to shake up ‘greens’ nutrition supplements in the vitamins and minerals category, delivering all your daily nutritional needs in one. Verve’s V80 combines a wide range of ingredients that work in synergy to provide an easy and convenient way to supercharge your well-being by keeping your energy up, strengthening your immune system and balancing your gut health. According to nutritionists, V80 is a nutritional powerhouse with a massive 214 health & wellness benefits. Naturally infused with real fruit to offer a clean refreshing taste, a single daily scoop takes care of your nutrient needs in one simple drink.

For more information, visit www.vavaverve.com.

Don’t get left in the dark

Since 1st September 2023, the EU has banned the sale of fluorescent lighting. This may directly affect your business. With a fully funded lighting upgrade from Energia, you can get your old fluorescent lighting replaced, while also reducing your lighting consumption by up to 80%. We’ll make it easy by managing the entire process from start to finish.

Find out more at energia.ie/lighting

12|Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Industry News Aldi reveal Ireland’s favourite products NEW data released from Aldi has revealed Ireland’s favourite products, and highlights changing customer behaviours and shopping trends. The data, which analyses sales from Aldi’s 160 Irish stores, based in every county in the country, shows that mini banana packs, bananas and fresh milk are the three biggest selling products nationwide. Key household essentials such as butter and bread are also among the most bought products at Aldi stores.

“The figures we are revealing are a valuable roadmap for Aldi to continue delivering on our promise,” noted John Curtin, Group Buying Director, Aldi Ireland (pictured). “They show us the staple products that Irish shoppers value, the trends and behavioural shifts that we need to take account of to ensure that we continue to deliver unbeatable value and a range of quality products that our customers expect.” The 20 biggest selling items in Aldi (April – September 2023) also included Eco Loop bags, Pure Irish Creamery Butter, fresh white sliced bread, carrots, salad tomatoes, cucumber, white standard tissue, instant noodles, scallions, strawberries, milk chocolate digestives, dog trays, yogurt and mushrooms.

Coca-Cola reach key sustainability milestone AS part of their journey towards a World Without Waste, Coca-Cola in partnership with their strategic bottling partner, Coca-Cola HBC, recently announced that all plastic bottles across their soft drinks’ portfolio in Ireland and Northern Ireland are now made with 100% recycled plastic.

The new 100% recycled plastic bottles, which are also 100% recyclable, will be used across the full range of Coca-Cola products, such as Coca-Cola Original Taste, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, and for other beverage brands owned by the company, including Fanta and Sprite. This is a key sustainability milestone for Coca-Cola on the island of Ireland and will lead to the elimination of an additional 7,100 tonnes of virgin plastic from circulation annually. “We are proud to be making the move to 100% recycled plastic across our entire soft drinks range,” noted Agnese Filippi, Country Manager, Coca-Cola Ireland. “As the biggest beverage brand on the island, we have a clear responsibility and opportunity to contribute to a circular economy – our actions make a big difference.”

Parkside by Lidl sponsors The Salvage Squad on TV VIRGIN Media Television’s brand-new series The Salvage Squad is being sponsored by Parkside by Lidl. In the show, Brian Dowling and his squad are on a mission to transform Ireland’s tired old rooms into trendy spaces using second hand, free-cycled, salvaged, up-cycled, homemade or pre-used furniture, materials and accessories to create dream rooms in just three days, with a maximum spend of €1,000.

“Parkside by Lidl tools have already impressed many customers with high quality, unbeatable price-performance ratio, a convincing range and attractive design,” revealed Orlaith McIvor, Senior Media Manager at Lidl Ireland. “We really wanted a partner to embody all of these aspects to the nation of Ireland to allow everyone to tackle things yourself, at a low cost with high quality. We want to give people the security that they can do it themselves at any budget.

Parkside is proud to be part of the Salvage Squad team.”

Appointments at ASAI THE Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland (ASAI), the independent self-regulatory body committed to promoting the highest standards of marketing communications in Ireland, has appointed Mary Behan (left) as Marketing and Communications Manager and promoted Seóna Parker (right) to Senior Services Manager. Mary, who has almost a decade of experience in the marketing and communications industry, will lead the ASAI’s digital media strategy, developing and maintaining the ASAI’s digital reach and presence.

Seóna Parker has a vast and in-depth knowledge of the ASAI, with a career spanning over 25 years with the organisation. She has extensive expertise in self-regulation and the Code of Standards for Advertising and Marketing Communications.

Pepco launch ninth Irish store

PEPCO are celebrating the opening of their newest store in Artane, Dublin, on November 4.

The latest opening comes after Dealz completely revamped eight of their Irish stores, giving them top-to-bottom makeovers, converting them to the Pepco brand. “We’re delighted at the initial reaction to our Pepco stores in Ireland and we’re extremely excited to be opening our newest Pepco store in Artane,” said Olivia McLoughlin, Trading Country Operations Manager for both Pepco and Dealz in Ireland. “We know purse strings are tight for many families throughout Ireland and that’s why we also know the value we offer will matter.”

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National Lottery

The stuff that EuroDreams are made of…

The National Lottery have announced the launch of EuroDreams, a brand new annuity game, offering a top prize of €20,000 every month for 30 years.

THE National Lottery have announced details of ‘EuroDreams’, an exciting new draw-based game that offers an annuity top prize of €20,000 every month for 30 years.

Tickets for the new game cost €2.50 per line and went on sale on Monday, October 30, ahead of the first draw on Monday, November 6.

The first annuity type game in Ireland The EuroDreams game, which is the first annuity type game of its kind in Ireland, is a joint venture with Ireland’s National Lottery and seven other European countries. Draws will be held every Monday and Thursday.

Players will pick six main numbers from 1-40 and one bonus number (called ‘Dream’ number) from 1-5 to make up their combination.

The EuroDreams game comes almost 20 years after the EuroMillions was first launched in Ireland in 2004. Unlike other lottery draw-based games, the annuity top prize, which is worth €7.2 million, will be paid in monthly tax-free payments of €20,000 spread over 30 years.

Tickets for the EuroDreams game will be available at usual National Lottery retail agents nationwide, as well as at www.lottery.ie and the National Lottery App. Tickets for the EuroDreams game can be purchased before the 7.30pm cut-off

The National Lottery are one of eight countries across Europe to launch the EuroDreams game, the very first annuity type lottery of its kind in Ireland. Andrew Algeo (centre), Chief Executive Officer of the National Lottery, is pictured at the launch at the Gustave Eiffel Hall on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. each Monday and Thursday. Similar to the EuroMillions game, draws will take place in Paris, France, at approximately 8pm (Irish Time) on draw nights.

A unique, life-changing prize Speaking at a launch event for the new EuroDreams game in Paris, France, Andrew Algeo, National Lottery Chief Executive,

said: “We’re very excited to be launching the EuroDreams game, which offers a unique, life-changing annuity prize, the likes of which has never been seen in Ireland before. This kind of annuity game has proven incredibly popular in other countries, such as the UK and the US, and we think it will prove incredibly popular with our players, some of whom like the

EuroDreams is a lottery numbers game in which players from participating European countries play to win a top prize which is paid in regular instalments over a 30-year period. idea of winning such a prize which is paid in EuroDreams Prize Value (expected Average) Approximate odds of regular instalments over the long term.

Prize Tier winning 1 in “We are constantly striving to develop our games and continually excite our Match 6 + 1 €20,000 per month for 30 years (€7.2 19,191,900 players by having a mix of draw-based million) games that offers something for everyone,” Match 6 €2,000 per month for 5 years (€120,000) 4,797,975 he continued. “I believe that EuroDreams Match 5 (Parimutuel - Average Prize) €103 18,815.59 will be a real compelling offering for a strong cohort of our players, which is vital Match 4 (Parimutuel - Average Prize) €40 456.14 for the sustainability of the National Lottery Match 3 (Parimutuel - Average Prize) €5 32.07 and the thousands of community groups, Match 2 (Fixed Prize) €2.50 5.52 32.07 projects and individuals for whom National Lottery Good Causes funding is so crucial.”

EuroMillions prize tier odds.

14|Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Gala Conference & Awards

Gala: 25 years a-growing!

Gala Retail celebrated their milestone 25th year at their annual conference, which also saw stores and suppliers rewarded at the Gala Excellence in Retailing Awards.

CONTINUING the celebrations of their milestone 25th year in business, Irish convenience group, Gala Retail, held their 2023 conference at The Great Southern Hotel in Killarney, Co. Kerry. The focus of the conference centred around the group’s continued success in community retailing, the growth of the Gala brand and the future vision for Gala.

Welcoming in excess of 350 guests, the Gala Retail Conference and Excellence Awards were attended by Gala retailers, wholesalers, suppliers, Gala employees and friends of the group, and were hosted by Irish television presenter, Lucy Kennedy.

A look back at the growth and milestones of the Group since it was founded in 1998, highlighted how Gala Retail’s focus on ‘local’ and ‘community’ values, combined with ongoing innovation, continues to deliver success for the Group and their retailers, of whom there are in excess of 200, throughout Ireland.

CEO of Gala Retail, Gary Desmond (right), pictured with awards host, Lucy Kennedy, and Chairman of Gala Retail, Donald Williamson

Trade show: an integral part of the conference Earlier in the day, guests attended the annual conference trade show in Killarney, where they viewed new products and services from suppliers, discussed solutions that can be incorporated in-store and sampled the delicious product range from Gala’s in-house concepts – Baker’s Corner, The Deli, Galato, Distill and the new look and superior offering from Coffee Junction.

The trade show is an integral part of the annual Gala conference, as Gary Desmond, Gala Group CEO, explained: “Our suppliers are an intrinsic part of the Gala Jason O’Brien, Director of O’Brien Ingredients, receives the Supplier of the Year mix, supporting Gala stores in the delivery of great value, quality produce and excellent Award from CEO of Gala Retail, Gary Desmond.

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Gala Conference & Awards

Gary Desmond, CEO of Gala Retail, pictured with the Gala Retail Council at the Gala Conference. Pictured are (back row): Gary Desmond, Paul Harkin, Hilary Duffy, John McDermott, Siobhan Grimes, Retail Operations Manager of Gala Retail, and Kevin Bracken; (Front row): Irene Murphy, Donald WIlliamson, Chairman of Gala Retail, and Majella Hennessy. service to our customers. The trade show provides a fantastic opportunity for Gala retailers and suppliers to meet face-to-face, avail of exceptional offers and see firsthand the latest innovations, one of which is the new, superior Coffee Junction. It was great to see the warm reception to the new coffee offering, which will ensure Gala stores become a destination for coffee.”

Virtual reality store layout simulator At the event, Gala Retail announced the unveiling of a pioneering virtual reality store layout simulator, believed to be one of the first of its kind in Europe. This stateof-the-art technology has been designed to breathe life into new store layouts, enabling retailers to step into the future and visualise and navigate a Gala store, right from the initial planning stages.

This groundbreaking simulator not only showcases the potential of Gala stores but also underpins Gala Retail's commitment to fostering innovation within the convenience retail sector.

Marketing: focused on community Community continues to be at the core of Gala Retail’s values, and this is reflected in the brand marketing activities the group undertakes throughout the year.

This year, Gala focused on rewarding customers through the ‘Gala Gifts For All’, ‘Gala Getaways’ and later this month will be launching a new festive in-store promotion with Smyths Toys, with all activations targeted at driving footfall to Gala stores

and generating goodwill within local communities.

Touching on the Group’s sponsorship of national children’s summer camps, Starcamp with Gala Retail, and the group’s continued support of Special Olympics Ireland, now in its eighth year, Gary Desmond highlighted Gala Retail’s commitment to supporting Irish organisations and celebrating the inspirational sporting achievements from individuals across Ireland.

Excellence in Retailing Awards That evening, it was time for Gala retailers to celebrate excellence in retailing with the presentation of the Gala Retail Excellence Awards.

Presented to stores that are deemed ‘outstanding’ following a comprehensive and independent assessment process, the annual awards recognise quality retailing throughout the Gala Group.

64 Gala stores from across the country picked up an award in recognition of their excellence in retailing, with an additional 13 Category Awards presented on the night.

O’Brien Ingredients were named as Gala Supplier of the Year and commenting on the win, Director, Jason O’Brien, stated, “It’s a real privilege to have been named supplier of the year, especially in this, the start of Gala Retail’s 25th celebrations.

We have been involved with the group for many years, watching as it has grown from strength to strength, and are proud to have played our part in introducing new products that are loved by Gala customers.”

Category Award winners The Category Awards saw stores from right across the country rewarded for excellence.

Winners included Stephanie Sweeney, from Gala Kilmeaden, Co. Waterford, who picked up the Store Manager of the Year title, while Gala in Mohill, Co. Leitrim, picked up the Customer service Award, Harkin’s Gala in Raphoe Co. Donegal, won the Community Initiative Award, and O’Shea’s Gala in Blennerville, Co. Kerry, took home the Brand Champion Award.

John Colclough, Senior National Account Manager, Kerry Foods, and Audrey Kelly, Chilled and Logistics Manager, Gala Retail, pictured presenting John McDermott, McDermott’s Gala with the Fresh Food Award.

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Gala Conference & Awards Retail Excellence Award Winners Kane's Gala, Carlow Hegarty's Gala, Carlow Munnelly's Gala, Carlow Gala Ballyhaise, Co. Cavan Crowe's Gala, Sixmilebridge, Co. Clare Curtin's Gala, Dunmanway, Co. Cork

“We are honoured to have so many excellent and passionate retailers, and teams, within the Gala Group,” noted Gary Desmond. “Our retailers go above and beyond and this has never been more evident than in recent years. It is our pleasure to recognise the retailers

who embody the ethos and values of Gala Retail in their service to their communities with these awards. It is their successes, both tonight and the wins in-store every day, that make the Gala Group better, stronger and able to thrive.”

Camier's Gala, Ballydehob, Co. Cork Gala Ovens, Co. Cork Minihane's Gala, Clonakilty, Co. Cork Cooney's Gala, Coachford, Co. Cork Harkin's Gala, Raphoe, Co. Donegal Harkin's Gala, St. Johnston, Lifford, Co. Donegal Browne's Gala, Manorcunningham, Co. Donegal Duffy's Gala, Terenure, Dublin Egan's Gala, Dunmore, Co. Galway Cliffords's Gala, Oak Park, Tralee, Co. Kerry Clifford's Gala, Mounthawk, Tralee, Co. Kerry O'Shea's Gala, Blennerville, Tralee, Co. Kerry Daly's Gala, Waterville, Co. Kerry Noonan's Gala, Athy, Co. Kildare King's Gala, Maganey, Co. Kildare Nolan's Gala, Ardnore, Loughboy, Co. Kilkenny Dempsey's Gala, Portarlington, Co. Laois Dowling's Gala, Killenard, Portarlington, Co. Laois Bracken's Gala, Portlaoise, Co. Laois King's Gala, Ballylinan, Co. Laois

The Mulrooney Group presented with the Coffee Junction Award 2023.

Kieran's Gala, Carrick on Shannon, Co. Leitrim Gala Mohill, Co. Leitrim Gala Rooskey, Co. Leitrim McDermott's Gala, Patrickswell, Co. Limerick Moynihan's Gala, Adare, Co. Limerick Gala Kilmallock, Co. Limerick Gala Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick Gala Parnell Street, Co. Limerick Corrigan's Gala, Moyne, Co. Longford Hanlon's Gala Longford Gala Achill, Co. Mayo McGloin's Gala, Foxford, Co. Mayo Gala Bonniconlon, Co. Mayo Tuffy's Gala, Louisburgh, Co. Mayo Mulhern's Gala, Crossmolina, Co. Mayo Walsh's Gala, Kiltimagh, Co. Mayo Tuffy's Gala, Ballina, Co. Mayo King's Gala, Ratoath, Co. Meath Farrell's Gala, The Brink, Navan, Co. Meath Darcy's Gala, Mount Lucas, Co. Offaly Mulrooney's Gala, Birr, Co. Offaly Henry's Gala, Ballymote, Co. Sligo Mulrooney's Gala, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary

Pictured at the Gala conference are Mario Rosenstock, Lucy Kennedy and Gary Desmond, CEO of Gala Retail.

Mulrooney's Gala, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary

Category Winners:

Mulrooney's Gala, Templemore, Co. Tipperary

2023

Fresh Food Award: McDermott's Gala, Patrickswell, Co. Limerick

Mulrooney's Gala, Lorrha, Portumna, Co. Tipperary

2023

Baker's Corner Award: Nicholson’s Gala, Achill, Co. Mayo

Larkin's Gala, Ballina, Co. Tipperary

2023

Special Merit Award: Gala Rooskey, Co. Leitrim

Gala Golden, Co. Tipperary

2023

Store Manager of the Year: Stephanie Sweeney, Gala Kilmeaden, Co. Waterford

Hurley's Gala, Borrisoleigh, Co. Tipperary

2023

Coffee Junction Award: The Mulrooney Group

Hennessy's Gala, Kilmeaden, Co. Waterford

2023

Chilled Retailer Award: Clifford's Gala, Mounthawk, Tralee, Co. Kerry

Gala Raheen, Co. Wexford

2023

Customer Service Award: Gala Mohill, Co. Leitrim

Murphy's Gala, Kilanerin, Gorey, Co. Wexford

2023

Off Licence of the Year Award: Tuffy's Gala, Louisburgh, Co. Mayo

Gala Clonroche, Co. Wexford

2023

Marketing Initiative Award: Dowling's Gala, Killenard, Co. Laois

Gala Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford

2023

Community Initiative Award: Harkin's Gala, Raphoe, Co. Donegal

Cullen's Gala, Adamstown, Co. Wexford

2023

Social Media Champion: Kane’s Gala, Co. Carlow

Gala Bunclody, Co. Wexford

2023

Supplier of The Year: O’Brien Ingredients

Gala New Ross, Co. Wexford

2023

Brand Champion Award: O'Shea's Gala, Blennerville, Co. Kerry

Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie|17

Kerrygold

Kerrygold launch butter stick in Ireland

New from Kerrygold, a handy 100g butter stick with the same great Kerrygold taste.

IRELAND’S leading butter brand, Kerrygold, has announced the extension of its product range with the launch of the Kerrygold Butter Stick. The handy 100g format offers butter lovers greater variety for a host of usage occasions, while delivering the unmistakable great taste that Kerrygold fans across the globe know and love.

Made from the milk of Irish grassfed cows, the new format maintains Kerrygold’s rich, creamy, real butter taste, while responding to the evolving needs of diverse household sizes by offering more convenience and increased choice for Irish consumers. With 25g markings on the pack, the Kerrygold Butter Stick is made for every cooking occasion, from indulgent buttery potatoes to a rich flavourful sauce for your favourite fish. It’s also perfect for a delicious dessert oozing with toffee sauce or a simple vanilla cupcake with irresistibly smooth buttercream icing.

A new convenient and versatile format “We are very excited to introduce a new addition to the Kerrygold line-up of products available here in Ireland in the form of our new Kerrygold Butter Stick,” said Daniel Kelly, Head of Ireland, Foods International. “Consumers choose Kerrygold for its unrivalled taste and premium quality and the new 100g size enables us to bring these hallmarks to

the table in a convenient and versatile format to match a diverse range of needs and lifestyles. As the Kerrygold brand continues to grow from strength to strength in markets around the world, we are proud to expand our offering for Kerrygold lovers here at home in Ireland, where the Kerrygold journey began.”

Kerrygold 100g butter sticks are available nationwide in most major supermarkets, convenience stores and independent retailers.

Kerrygold’s growing popularity around the world has seen the brand grow its global home at Kerrygold Park in Mitchelstown, where it can now produce up to one million packs each day!

Multi-channel advertising campaign Last month saw Kerrygold unveiling a major new global multi-channel advertising campaign that is set to reach over 150 million consumers globally in the coming 12 months. The campaign, ‘May your table always be full’, aims to illustrate the power of reconnecting with friends and family at mealtimes amid the fast-paced pressures of everyday modern life. “‘May your table always be full’ is a timeless, powerful brand adage that we believe everyone can relate to,” said Brian Cleere, Global Creative Director, Kerrygold. “Kerrygold’s rich tasting butter and cheese are meant to be savoured and shared. This platform connects with people by reminding them of how good the little moments in life can be when you take the time to be present, cook meals with one

The little things make life golden NEW 100g BUTTER S TICKS

The new 100g Kerrygold Butter Stick offers more convenience and choice for Irish consumers. another and even just sit down at a table enjoy a meal, connecting with friends and family.”

Since launching over 60 years ago, Kerrygold has travelled the world, finding its place in the hearts and homes of consumers all across the world, while becoming Ireland’s most successful food export. The new creative campaign lands at an exciting time for Kerrygold as the brand continues its strong growth trajectory towards €2 billion in annual sales globally.

A still from the Kerrygold’s major new global multi-channel advertising campaign, ‘May your table always be full’.

18|Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Retail Ireland: Monthly Update IN September, the European Commission proposed new rules which aims to bring down payment terms in commercial transactions between businesses (B2B) and between public authorities and businesses to 30 days. While not yet approved, these have the potential to fundamentally alter the contractual arrangements that retailers have with their suppliers. For many, it will present very significant challenges.

The proposals aim to speed up payment to SMEs in particular.

However, the knock-on consequences could be very negative for many businesses that rely on longer payment terms to finance their operations and support efficient cash flow.

Under this proposal, the period of 30 days to pay the invoice would start from the date of the receipt of the invoice or an equivalent request for payment by the debtor, provided that the debtor has received the goods.

An example following the Commission proposal would be if the buyer receives the goods and one week later, the invoice arrives, the 30 days would start from the receipt of the invoice (so 30 days + 1 week from the receipt of the goods). However, if a buyer receives an invoice but not the goods, the 30-day period does not start. In the case of a verification period, the 30-day period to pay starts at the end of the verification period.

As currently envisaged, the way this legislation will be enforced at national level will largely be left up to our government to decide.

Details such as who the national enforcement authority will be, who will set the maximum level of financial penalties for late payments and how complaints will be dealt with will be a decision that every Member State will take at a national level.

Image from RawPixel.com.

European Commission adopts proposal on late payments

If this proposal is adopted as is, it will cause major disruption in the retail sector and involve a major transfer of cash towards suppliers. While the proposal is unlikely to be fully approved before European Parliament elections in June next year, it is likely that policy-makers will want to make this a priority ahead of elections.

Retail Ireland is working through our umbrella European federation, EuroCommerce, in Brussels and through Ibec’s EU network to highlight retailer concerns and seek changes in the approach. Over recent weeks, this has involved meetings with senior EU officials, along with work to quantify the impact of the measure on the retail sector across Europe.

Cautious optimism as we approach key Christmas trading IT has been a mixed year for retailers, with cost of living increases dampening sales and consumer sentiment during the first half of the year. As we enter the key Christmas period, trends are moving slowly in the right direction, but many customers remain cautious.

Consumer sentiment lifted as we moved through the year, but it has yet to recover to the level we saw at the start of last year.

Inflation remains high by recent standards, even if it has fallen significantly during the year, and interest rate hikes continue to bite.

Data from the Credit Union Consumer Sentiment Index survey over the last few months suggests that many Irish consumers remain cautious about their household finances, particularly facing into seasonal spending pressures such as higher heating and electricity bills.

However, the tax cuts and other cost of living supports that Government brought in as part of this year’s Budget should support sentiment and retail spending over the coming weeks.

The employment outlook remains positive, with record numbers of people at work. Thankfully, job security is not a major concern for most employees. Pay increases have also begun to off-set cost of living increases, meaning that people are starting to feel better off.

We can be cautiously optimistic as we approach Christmas, even if many still see challenges ahead.

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For more information about Retail Ireland and details of how your retail business can benefit from our unique services and supports, please visit us at www.retailireland.ie.

Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie|19

Blas na hÉireann

Bia blasta The 2023 Blas na hÉireann Awards celebrated the very best in Irish food and drink products over a three day event in Dingle.

Blas na hÉireann 2023, the Irish food awards, celebrated another bumper year this year. From September 28-30, the winners were announced during a threeday celebration of the best of Irish food and drink in their home in Dingle, Co. Kerry.

Morelli Ice Cream were crowned as Supreme Champion for their Morelli’s Mango Sorbet, while Miena’s Nougat was announced as Best Artisan Producer.

A previous finalist and gold medal winner at Blas na hÉireann awards for their sensational ice creams, frozen yogurts and sorbets, Morelli Ice Cream took home

Miena Rust, founder of Miena's Nougat, winner of the Best Artisan Producer Award.

Marino, Dario and Arnaldo Morelli celebrate Morelli Ice Cream being crowned as Supreme Champion for their Morelli’s Mango Sorbet. the Supreme Champion Award for their Morelli’s Mango Sorbet, a sorbet that uses real mango puree and no dairy or lactose products.

Based in Coleraine, the Morelli name is famous when it comes to ice-cream.

Five generations after Peter Morelli left Italy by foot to start a new life, ending up in Northern Ireland, setting up cafés and parlours across the county, his great nieces and nephews, Marino, Romeo, Tania, Arnaldo & Daniela Morelli, are now at the helm, expanding the business overseas as well as establishing Morelli’s across Ireland. Their story of hardship, emigration, romance and family has been well documented and they are extremely proud of their humble beginnings from their great uncle’s little café on the cobbled streets of Coleraine into what is now Ireland’s most famous Italian Ice Cream and Blas na hÉireann 2023 Supreme Champion.

“We are delighted to be named Supreme Champion at this year’s Blas na hÉireann,” said Arnaldo Morelli, MD at Morelli Ice Cream. “Our grandparents and parents would be ecstatic and we are all very proud to carry on their legacy. Our focus is on quality ingredients and great tasting ice cream and there really is no better award than this among Irish food and drink producers, so to be crowned Supreme

Champion is the cherry on top of our Mango Sorbet!”

Winner of Best Artisan Producer, Miena’s Nougat are producers of handmade nougats used with the freshest ingredients they can source. Miena Rust started making nougat in 2012 at her Wicklow home, and 10 years later, she is still making nougat in a small production unit right next to her original base. Miena and her small team are constantly experimenting with new flavours and ingredients, using the very best of what is around them in the ‘Garden of Ireland’, with a keen focus on sustainability.

“After 10 years dedicating my career to something I am so passionate about, it is an honour to be awarded Best Artisan Producer at the 2023 Blas na hÉireann awards." said Miena Rust, founder of Miena's Nougat. “This really is something I wake up and feel driven by every morning.

When we come up with a new recipe that tastes delicious and people enjoy, that’s what gives me a kick and keeps me going.

We have just been awarded our Origin Green Gold Membership for 2023 after achieving our five-year sustainability plan, so to have this on top just makes it all the more worthwhile. I want to thank Artie and his amazing team, the impact of these awards is huge and has been so beneficial to my company; I can’t thank them enough.”

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Blas na hÉireann Speaking as the winners were announced, Blas na hÉireann Chairperson, Artie Clifford said, “We are thrilled to see such deserving winners and finalists again this year at Blas na hÉireann 2023. Looking back on 16 years of Blas, it’s fantastic to see the standard of food and drink in Ireland go from strength to strength year-onyear. It’s a real privilege for myself and the whole Blas family to bring these products, and the amazing producers who make them, to a wider audience.”

Now in its 16th year, Blas na hÉireann saw the highest number of entries, with almost 3,000 products, including many new producers entering the awards for the first time. Products from every county in Ireland were entered to win bronze, silver or gold awards in over 150 food and drink categories, as well as key awards like Supreme Champion and Best Artisan Producer. As the competition ramps up every year, securing that Blas badge is a huge achievement and means those producers who are short-listed as finalists and the final winners really are the crème de la crème of Irish food and drink.

Tesco Ireland celebrate success Tesco Ireland were delighted to receive no fewer than 45 awards at this year’s Blas na hÉireann Awards in another hugely successful year for the retailer and their producers.

Tesco products almost doubled their tally from last year, receiving awards across several medal classes, including beef, lamb, and bacon, cured meats, ready meals, prepared foods, soups, ice cream, dairy, cheese, breakfast cereal and preserves categories.

Tesco were awarded 15 gold medals, including Tesco Finest Certified Irish Angus Sirloin Steak with Creamy Pepper Sauce, Tesco Lamb Rack with a Mushroom & Herb Crumb, and Tesco Sicilian Lemon Luxury Yogurt 150g.

Tesco Finest Blackcurrant Conserve and Tesco Finest Gherkin and Mustard Relish also won gold awards, while their Finest rooster potatoes received a prestigious Chef’s Larder award.

“The Blas na hÉireann awards are always a wonderful occasion, and we are especially thrilled this year to come away with 45 awards for Tesco own label and Finest products,” revealed Joe Manning, Commercial Director, Tesco Ireland. “We are delighted to have the quality of our Irish-produced products

Winner of the Love Irish Food Blas na hÉireann Bursary 2023 announced THE winner of the Love Irish Food Blas na hÉireann Bursary 2023 was revealed as BiaSol, a family-run company which creates zero-waste food products. The Bursary, worth almost €7,000, will encompass a one-year free membership to Love Irish Food, together with promotional support.

Based in Tullamore, County Offaly, BiaSol strive to make highly nutritious, zero-waste food products easily accessible in Ireland. They repurpose food waste to produce a range of products, including breakfast bars, grains and baking kits. Led by brother and sister team, Niamh and Ruairi Dooley, the company was born in 2020 as a way to combat food wastage and improve nutrition.

Tesco Finest rooster potatoes received a prestigious Chef’s Larder award. recognised at such a prestigious event, and to have received 15 gold medals, as well as 14 silver and 15 bronze, is an achievement that we are all extremely proud of. None of this would be possible without our outstanding suppliers, who show such dedication and passion for their work. We’ve been working with some of them for over 25 years now, and year after year they continue to provide the best quality products for our customers. Congratulations to all involved.”

A triumph for SuperValu Producers of SuperValu took home a remarkable 94 Blás Na hÉireann Awards in another winning year for the retailer and their local producers. SuperValu own brand and their Food Academy producers picked up 94 awards, winning 26 gold, 24 silver, 30 bronze, five Chef’s Larder and nine speciality awards.

SuperValu Signature Tastes won five gold awards, highlighting the exemplary quality across the top-tier range. This brings the total number of awards won

by SuperValu and their suppliers over the last three years up to an incredible 303 awards across SuperValu own brand, SuperValu Signature Tastes, Food Academy and The Happy Pear.

SuperValu award winners included a prestigious Chef’s Larder Award for Oliver Carty for their Signature Tastes Hampshire Easy Carve Gammon. Food Academy producers took home four of these highly coveted awards,

Kieran Rumley, Executive Director of Love Irish Food, presents the Love Irish Food Blas na hÉireann Bursary Award, to Ruairi Dooley, BiaSol, with Fallon Moore, Blas na hÉireann.

BiaSol collect spent grains from four breweries around Ireland to make Super Milled Grains, a nutritional supplement made from light malt, dark malt and whole grains. Their products are stocked in stores in Westmeath, Mayo, Waterford, Kildare and in Avoca in Wicklow.

“I’d like to congratulate Niamh and Ruairi from BiaSol on winning the Love Irish Food Blas na hÉireann Bursary, and welcome BiaSol as a new member brand,” said Kieran Rumley, Executive Director, Love Irish Food. “We are very impressed by the innovation and dynamic persistence shown by BiaSol. They have an incredible belief in sustainability and bring that into a practical application. As a new member, BiaSol will share the many advantages of Love Irish Food membership in joining with over 100 other Irish-produced food and drink brands.

This bursary is designed to bring opportunities to new and emerging brands, and we are delighted to support BiaSol on their journey.”

Winner winner all kinds of dinners.

Congratulations to our amazing local suppliers at the 2023 Blas na hÉireann awards.

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Blas na hÉireann

Loretto Kieran and Sarah Donnelly from Oliver Carty, Athlone, with Deirdre O’Brien, Product Developer, Musgrave. including Cherry Orchard Community Garden’s Mixed Salad Leaves, Clonmore Farm’s Mixed Salad Leaves, Dainty Greens Microgreens Medley, and Roll It Pastry’s All Butter Puff Pastry. This highly regarded title is awarded for ingredients, specialist products or recipe staples that a chef would find to be a valuable part of their larder. Another key highlight was for SuperValu Food Academy producer Achill Island Sea Salt, taking home the Best New Product for Achill Island Sea Salted Nougat with Cashew Nuts.

SuperValu Signature Tastes & Own Brand took home a total of 10 gold awards, including SuperValu Natural Kefir from Clóna Dairy Products Ltd, a West Cork based manufacturer of 100% Irish fresh milk and cream products, and SuperValu Rapeseed Oil from Newgrange Gold.

Also included in the gold award line up was SuperValu Signature Tastes Irish Hampshire Smoked Rack of Bacon (exclusive to SuperValu), produced by Oliver Carty. The business is owned and run by Ted Carty, whose foresight, innovation and love of the business has led Oliver Carty to become one of Ireland’s largest pork and bacon producers.

SuperValu’s Food Academy producers picked up a phenomenal 48 awards: 13 gold, eight silver, 14 bronze, four Chef’s Larder, one Best New Product and eight Best in County, including a gold award for Ballykilcavan Brewing for their Blackwell Irish Stout. David and Lisa Walsh-Kemmis established Ballykilcavan Brewing

Company on their family's historic farm in 2016, spanning 13 generations since 1639.

They founded an on-farm brewery, sourcing 100% of barley from the estate and introduced hop gardens, while committing to sustainability and maintaining their Origin Green Sustainability status for 2023.

With a dedication to preserving the farm's legacy, each beer is named after a specific location on the farm, showcasing full

ingredient traceability and emphasising the unique terroir of Ballykilcavan.

Ian Allen, Managing Director, SuperValu, described 2023 as “another stellar year for SuperValu at the prestigious Blas na hÉireann awards. This year SuperValu took home a total of 94 awards, including 48 awards for our talented Food Academy producers. We are incredibly proud of our local producers as they receive the recognition they deserve. SuperValu has been supporting sustainable Irish food & drink producers for many years now, helping to deliver a more sustainable range for our customers, as well as creating jobs within our communities.

“Along with supporting sustainable food producers, we are committed to helping our customers make sustainable choices,” he continued. “We recently launched our ‘Local Action, Global Impact’ initiative, which showcases the small actions we can all take to make a global impact. Local Irish producers are certainly making an impact. This was another fantastic, awardwinning year for our producers, and we are incredibly proud of our local producers as they receive the recognition they deserve.”

Centra celebrates with 28 awards Centra’s Irish food producers claimed 28 awards at this year’s Blas na hÉireann Awards, including seven gold awards for products including Inspired by Centra Overnight Oats, Centra Rapeseed Oil, Centra Streaky Smoked Rashers, Centra

Gerry Sheridan and Lisa Clarke from Moon Ice Cream Treats, Cavan, with Rachel Gearey, Assistant Trading Manager, Musgrave, and Majella Moynihan, Product Development Manager, Musgrave.

Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie|23

Blas na hÉireann Mango Kefir and The Happy Pear Hummus.

Centra producers also took home 13 silver and eight bronze awards. The big wins included 11 products from the Inspired

by Centra range, expertly created to bring consumers a range with value in mind without compromising on taste or quality.

Award winners within the Inspired by Centra range include mouth-watering favourites such as Inspired By Centra Irish Angus Sirloin Steak with Peppercorn Butter and Inspired By Centra Italian Napoli Salami, Spicy Piccante Salami & Roasted Red Pepper Pizza.

Other key award winners from the Centra range included Centra Hi Fibre Rolls, Centra Tomato & Basil Soup and Centra Irish Creamery Butter.

“As the leading Irish convenience retailer, we pride ourselves on offering quality Irish produce for our customers to enjoy. Our trusted suppliers scooping 28 accolades at this year’s awards demonstrates this,” noted Ian Allen, Managing Director, Centra. “The Blas accreditation is a testament to Centra’s quality products from trusted Irish suppliers available across our network of 494 Centra stores nationwide.”

Artisan butchers excel at Blas Members of the Irish Butchers’ Guild shone bright at the Blas na hÉireann awards in Dingle for their exceptional products, reflecting the expertise, craft and topquality products available in local butcher shops throughout the country and their unwavering commitment to delivering excellence to their customers.

Five Farms win gold FIVE Farms, the premium Irish cream liqueur, was awarded a gold medal in the Spirits & Liqueurs - Cream Liqueurs category at the Blas na hÉireann Awards for the third year. Made with fresh Irish cream from five family-owned farms along the Wild Atlantic Way in West Cork, Five Farms takes its name from these farms, and prides itself on using fresh and local ingredients to create an indulgent and delicious drink to be enjoyed over ice.

“We are delighted to have won this award as they are the biggest within the Irish produce market,” noted Johnny Harte, co-founder of Five Farms. “It is our third year collecting first place in the Spirits & Liqueurs - Cream Liqueurs category, which is a great accolade for us and testament to the taste, quality and provenance of Five Farms.”

Five Farms premium Irish cream liqueur is made with fresh Irish cream from five family-owned farms along the Wild Atlantic Way in West Cork.

Jim and Bernadeta Murphy, helped by their daughters Mia and Sophia, are presented with the Irish Butcher's Guild Award by John Molloy, IBG.

Murphy Craft Butchers, based in Tullow Co. Carlow, traditional butchers with a heritage dating back to 1909, were awarded a gold award for their Traditional Spiced Beef, while also taking home the Best in Carlow Award and the prestigious Irish Butchers’ Guild Award for their exceptional Spiced Beef. “We are truly honoured to receive these awards for our Traditional Spiced Beef,” said Jim Murphy, Master Butcher. “It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, our commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients and our passion for delivering the best to our customers.”

Also amongst the winners were McCarthy’s of Kanturk, artisan butchers with a heritage dating back to 1892, who were awarded with a bronze award for their Traditional Pork Sausages, while Furlong’s Foodhall, artisan butchers in Gorey whose heritage dates back to 1621, were awarded a Gold Award for their Steak and Guinness Pie.

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Waste Management

Workplace waste made easy!

A toolkit designed to take the uncertainty out of waste segregation in the workplace is now available from MyWaste, Ireland’s official guide to waste.

A Government-funded initiative provides a free and extensive suite of signage and training materials to help workforces make accurate recycling decisions. This will assist Irish businesses achieve greater circular economy performance through increased recycling and composting rates.

A recent waste characterisation study carried out by the Environmental Protection Agency found that 74% of waste placed in the general commercial waste bins should be placed in either the recycling or food waste bins (Source: EPA National Municipal Waste Characterisation Project, September 2023). Food waste, paper and plastics are the top three wastes in commercial general waste bins and over 70% of food waste generated by the commercial sector is placed in general waste bins, with only 25% placed in food waste bins. mywaste_Toolkit_publication.pdf

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MANAGE workplace WASTE BETTER C

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INCREASE RECYCLING RATES COMPLY WITH NEW LEGISLATION PROMOTE A CIRCULAR ECONOMY

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Go to mywaste.ie/business to download a FREE TOOLKIT designed to help you better manage your business waste.

This toolkit includes posters, bin labels and a step-by-step guide to better business waste management.

Printed copies are also free to order while stocks last.

#circularworkplaces

Waste segregation Action on reducing the amount of food waste in commercial bins throughout the county is now required, as food waste has not only economic consequences, but environmental and social consequences as well. Therefore, all food waste should be source-separated and placed in dedicated food waste bins, which will ensure that it can be processed correctly, further aiding Ireland’s transition to a circular economy.

Proper waste segregation means more waste materials can be diverted to the circular economy, which in turn reduces the need for new raw materials and resources. Following the guidance within the Commercial Waste Toolkit can significantly improve the quality and quantity of recyclable and compostable waste generated in Ireland.

Empowering you to improve waste management Speaking on behalf of the Regional Waste Management Planning Offices, Kevin Swift, Connacht Ulster Region Waste Office, said: “This initiative will empower small and medium sized businesses, particularly those in the retail, hospitality, manufacturing and corporate sectors, to further improve how their waste is managed. With clear language and visuals, the materials will make it easy for staff to quickly understand what waste goes in what bin and should significantly increase the amount of recyclables and food waste diverted from the general bin and correctly placed in the recycling and food waste bins.”

Assets include posters, bin labels, brochures, checklists, training

animations and testimonials, and materials are available to order (while stocks last) or download free of charge from www. mywaste.ie/business/. In addition to using the assets linked, tips to help maximise recycling include visually checking your bins to identify incorrect segregation, colour coding, ensuring bins are placed in accessible designated locations and continuously increasing awareness and knowledge within the workforce.

Incentivised waste charging To further support waste segregation in Ireland, incentivised waste charging and other changes for waste collection in the commercial sector have been introduced through the introduction of the Waste Management (Collection Permit) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2023, which came into effect on July 1, 2023.

Measures in this piece of legislation include: •

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All waste collection companies are now required to provide a residual, mixed dry recyclable and food waste bin to all their commercial customers; Waste collection companies must ensure that all business customers are placed onto a price plan that ensures that the cost to the customer for mixed dry recyclable or food waste is less than the cost of disposal for municipal waste; All waste collected must be weighed, with details on the weights of the individual bins communicated to customers; Waste collection companies will be required to at least collect the recyclable waste materials as specified on mywaste.ie; Collection of recyclable waste and food waste must occur at least fortnightly.

The various measures outlined, in addition to the toolkit resources, will assist in improved waste segregation, environmental sustainability and will also contribute to Ireland’s transition to a more circular economy.

For more information, visit www.mywaste.ie/business or www.mywaste.ie/contact.

Made Easy Go to

FREE toolkit

This toolkit includes posters, bin labels and a step-by-step Free to order while stocks last.

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Retail News Interview

The beer necessities Bart Wijn, Off Trade Director, Heineken Ireland, discusses the challenges and opportunities facing Ireland’s off trade as we head into the busy Christmas season and beyond.

BART Wijn has been Heineken Ireland’s Off Trade Director since September 2022.He joined from Alken-Maes, the Heineken subsidiary in Belgium, and prior to that he held multiple roles in sales and marketing over different markets with Heineken, growing market share and helping to expand businesses.

In a wide-ranging interview, Bart discusses the changing nature of the Irish off trade, the trends driving that change and the continued strong performance of the Heineken Ireland portfolio in the off trade.

How has the Irish off trade performed over the course of the last year?

We are glad to see that in general our off trade customers were able to grow the value of the category. Of course, increasing costs have seen prices rise but overall the beer and cider market shows healthy growth despite the cost-of-living pressure that is in the market.

What sectors have been driving growth?

The premium segment is growing despite the cost-of-living impact as consumers look for ways to elevate the at-home beer experience. The Low and No Alcohol sector growth comes from a consumer desire for healthier choices, while still enjoying a great tasting beer.

2023 marks 150 years of the Heineken brand.

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Retail News Interview Simple Pleasures’ building on the brand’s Italian heritage.

In cider, we see that Orchard Thieves is driving the highest penetration, and is ranking as the most relevant brand amongst the Gen Z audience.

It’s not only our portfolio that does very well, but also our people. Everyone at Heineken Ireland are super proud to be recognised as the number one supplier in this year’s Advantage survey. It is great to see that putting the customer at the centre of our decision-making and closely collaborating with our customers, helps to service their needs.

How important is innovation to the Irish off trade?

The Irish consumer is quite loyal to their oyal to their chosen brand but with innovation, we keep the category fresh and relevant and grow choice. At Heineken Ireland, we have a strong track record on innovations driving entire category growth, with Birra Moretti building premium and Heineken revitalising the 0.0 segment in the last decade.

Heineken Ireland engage with the off trade customers to create impactful promotions in-store.

How has the craft beer sector impacted on the mainstream beer market?

Craft beer plays an important role in offering choice to our shoppers. The craft market in Ireland to date has not seen the growth experienced in other markets. The Irish shopper has shown a long lasting affinity to both Irish and global beer brands.

How has Heineken Ireland’s portfolio performed?

We have a strong portfolio across lager, stout and cider to meet all consumer tastes. The lager portfolio is well served with Heineken, Coors and Birra Moretti.

Heineken has had a great year, especially around the Heineken Cup final in Dublin earlier in the year; we were able to paint Ireland green and during the other rugby events, we still see that it is the beer brand of choice. Birra Moretti is the most important brand in premium, owning that space with great positioning of the ‘Life’s

Bart Wijn explains how Heineken Ireland are actively pursuing and reporting their sustainability targets since 2010 across social, environmental and responsible commitments, captured in their Brewing a Better World strategy.

As you celebrate 150 years of Heineken, how do you reflect on the history of the company and its continued success?

We are all very proud to celebrate 150 years of the Heineken brand in 2023. Any milestone like this gives you a moment to reflect on what has helped us remain relevant for so long. For us, we feed off the pioneering spirit of the Heineken family, whose dream it was to serve a beer enjoyed by the people of Amsterdam back

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Retail News Interview in 1873. This spirit has helped the brand cross many borders since then, and it is now a beer loved by people in over 190 countries worldwide. Closer to home, to think that Heineken has been Ireland’s number one lager brand since 1989 is a huge achievement. For a generation of consumers, Heineken has been a brand that offers unrivalled quality, combined with a passion to bring people together to enjoy world class experiences. This is what has underpinned our success not only in Ireland since 1989, but around the globe since 1873 – and we look forward to passing this mantra onto many new generations to come, for the next 150 years.

Sustainability has become one of the biggest issues for the entire business community. Heineken has been to the forefront of sustainability in Ireland and across Europe. Why is this so important to the company?

If you talk to younger colleagues or consumers, they will even be surprised by such a question as they believe sustainability should be an integral part of any business or society. We share this belief, actively pursuing and reporting our sustainability targets since 2010 across social, environmental and responsible commitments captured in our Brewing a Better World strategy. In Ireland, we have made great progress; one example is reducing waste by operating a zero waste to landfill site and also reusing all byproducts from brewing for agriculture use.

At consumer level, we have removed all consumer facing plastics from our portfolio.

Heineken Ireland’s big brands are an important footfall driver into the Irish off trade.

We also focus on Carbon reduction and are excited to announce that 60% of our drivers are moving to EV vehicles, with others to follow over the next two years.

We also recognise that there is more to do, so we keep investing and pushing targets with a huge focus for us to transform our 167-year-old brewery into a zero emission site before 2030.

More and more consumers are discovering Heineken 0.0, as the brand enjoys impressive growth.

What are the other big issues and trends affecting the industry, particularly the off trade?

After the alcohol act and Minimum Unit Pricing that was introduced this year, 2024 will see the introduction of a Deposit Return Scheme. This will mean a deposit is added to each can and PET bottle purchased, to be reimbursed when the empty container is returned to be recycled. The set-up of this system has seen huge collaboration from producers and retailers, working with the newly established Re-Turn not for profit organisation. Delivering a successful

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Retail News Interview scheme requires all stakeholders to play their part, including consumers, who should return their empty containers to the store to ensure the waste is captured and they receive their deposit!

Premiumisation and moderation will continue to drive performance for the premium and Low and No Alcohol sectors above the category average. Another important area for shoppers will be value for money; we need to ensure the right price and promotional strategy to deliver for our shoppers and retail partners.

The NA/LA market has grown hugely in recent years, particularly with the introduction and subsequent success of Heineken 0.0. Why do you think this is and can it continue to grow?

Health and wellness has been a trend for a number of years and while it has evolved, it is not going anywhere. Shoppers want to enjoy a great tasting beer and sometimes that means a beer without alcohol. With the launch of Heineken 0.0, we have proven that it can be a really good-tasting alternative.

More and more consumers are discovering Heineken 0.0 and we are behind other European countries on market penetration so there is ample room to grow. The great thing is that you are able now to enjoy a beer during lunch or any other occasion you choose.

What impact has MUP had on the off trade?

MUP significantly changed shopper behaviour; there was a significant shift from larger pack sizes to medium and smaller packs. This also created an opportunity for HIL to review its pack size offerings and bring new and relevant pack sizes to meet the change in shopper demand.

Has the pandemic changed the way Irish consumers purchase and consume alcohol?

The pandemic has had a pretty disruptive effect on how consumers engage with the alcohol sector. We can all remember the examples of people at home making cocktails or even getting pints delivered from the local pub to our doorsteps! It was also noticeable during the pandemic that consumers gravitated towards beer and cider brands that they had already built up trusted relationships with. This is to be expected to some degree, as consumers are looking for trust in a time of uncertainty. This has slightly evolved, the further we have moved away from the pandemic, where consumers are increasingly looking for brands that address a specific consumer need, whether

that relates to a sense of exploration, luxury or even belonging.

Consumers tend to be more knowledgeable about what they are drinking than ever before. How has this affected the market?

These days, there is much more emphasis on ‘conscious choices’ than before. Irish consumers were always much more knowledgeable about the alcohol category in general, but they now look at the market more critically than before, understanding how brands and experiences can deliver value to them. For example, younger consumers are now more focused on ‘living their best lives’, whether that’s hiking or sea swimming etc, so they seek to balance all the competing activities in their full lives. As such, Low & No Alcohol brands play a major role in helping consumers solve this potential tension.

Ireland’s punitive excise duties are a huge concern for the drinks industry. Should the Government do something to alleviate this pressure?

Ireland has the second highest excise duty in Europe and as such the drinks industry has been calling on the Government to revisit the excise rates for some time, in particular now against the backdrop of increasing rising costs and the rise in the VAT rate. The call is for a collective refocus on how we approach rates, looking at how that is impacting the overall industry and also tourism, as other European markets have a competitive advantage.

What other issues do you see affecting the off trade going forward?

As mentioned, DRS is an important step for the off trade market. We fully support the programme as it aligns with our own sustainability values, as well as meeting targets for waste collection; however, it will bring some disruption in HY1 next year.

How important is the Christmas market to the Irish off trade?

December is a very social month, so for beer and cider it is a crucial month. Last year, we saw consumers waiting for a while before purchasing and MUP drove a later peak in beer sales as shoppers anticipated deep beer pricing promotions that are no longer permitted. This year, we expect that consumers will spread their buying across November and December as an impact of the cost-of-living.

How do you see the future of the sector over the next 12 months?

Ireland has a famous pub culture but equally in a post-Covid world, Irish consumers are continuing to enjoy socialising at home, enjoying a cold beer at the end of the day or hosting a get-together with friends and family. Off trade in Ireland is very strong. You have beautiful stores, great brands and very knowledgeable people. It is something everyone in the off trade business should be extremely proud of and whilst there will be plenty of challenges coming for the industry, together with our customers, we are ready.

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Christmas Stocking: Essentials

The best of festive fare

Our annual guide to the ‘must stock’ items for the festive season.

CHRISTMAS is coming and all over the land, Irish shoppers are planning for the festive season. New research reveals that Irish consumers are set to shell out up to €1,500 this Christmas.

Despite cost-of-living concerns, over 45% of shoppers will be spending the same this Christmas, with 33% spending more, according to the research from local gift card champions Town & City Gift Cards.

25% of Irish shoppers say they’ll be spending €1,251-1,500 this Christmas, with the need to purchase gifts for friends and family given as the reason for Christmas spend staying the same or increasing.

But choosing the right present isn’t always easy, with 73% of people worrying about finding the perfect gift. The research also revealed a move towards more ‘useful’ gifts that offer choice, with 89% planning to buy at least one gift card this Christmas.

92% prefer giving a gift card to cash, with 77% saying this is because it encourages the recipient to treat themselves.

Support for local is higher than ever, with 98% keen to support local this

Christmas and 87% saying supporting local businesses helps to keep them open.

60% say shopping local offers a better experience.

“The research revealed changing attitudes towards gifting with a greater emphasis on gifts that can be used in a practical way and offer the recipient choice,” noted Colin Munro, Managing Director of Miconex, the firm which provides the technology for the Town & City Gift Card programme. “There’s also a really strong awareness of the need to shop local because people realise the impact it has on their community. Local gift cards wrap up choice and support for local in one gift card, reducing the pressure and worry of finding a perfect gift as the recipient can choose exactly what they want from all types and sizes of local businesses.”

Lindt Lindt Lindor have strengthened their position as the number one boxed chocolate brand in the Irish market. €1 in every €5 spent on a box of chocolates in Ireland is

spent on a Lindor box, proving that Lindt Lindor continues to be a must stock for retailers in 2023 (Source: Nielsen, Total Market. Ttl Scantrack ROI (excluding discounters) data to 10/09/2023).

Lindt Lindor success comes not only from the much-loved classic Lindor milk recipe but also through their continual innovations to the market that are guaranteed to excite and delight your shoppers.

Gifting couldn’t be easier this Christmas with new Lindor Festive Edition Milk and Assorted chocolate truffles. It’s the same iconic Lindor boxes and taste, but with a new enchanting, sparkly and festive packaging. These seasonal special edition boxes are the ideal addition to any gathering for sharing and gifting.

Discover an irresistible selection of smooth milk, decadent white, rich extra dark and crunchy hazelnut chocolates in the Lindor Assorted box or choose Milk Chocolate for that creamy, melt-in-the-mouth smooth chocolate experience; it’s total bliss.

Consumers can get into the festive

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Christmas Stocking: Essentials QR code, consumers can join Teddy on a new adventure behind every door; a heartwarming and enchanting tale that encapsulates the magic of Christmas.

The Lindt Teddy Lindt Lindor: a surefire winner this festive season, AR Advent Calendar available in Milk, Assorted and new Irish Cream will include 24 of the varieties. finest Lindt milk chocolates, including the iconic Lindt Teddy 100g with spirit with new limited-edition Lindor his unique and magical heart charm.

Irish Cream truffles. Their creamy filling The Lindt Teddy AR Advent Calendar contains the finest milk chocolate with is the must-have festive gift this season, an irresistibly smooth melting Irish spreading joy, creating memories, Cream filling, which provides the ultimate experiencing an enchanting story, and of indulgence. course, enjoying chocolate.

As market leaders, Lindt will deliver a Lindt will continue to give the gift of massively up-weighted national support bliss, this Christmas with the Lindor Milk plan this Christmas behind the Lindor brand, with Lindor TV advertising returning Selection Box 234g and Lindor Assorted Selection Box 227g. Discover a selection to screens from October and a strong push of the most iconic Lindor products, from in-store with premium point of sale and display.

With a format for every occasion, give your shoppers the gift of bliss this Christmas: Lindor from Lindt!

Also new from Lindt this festive season, shoppers can bring Teddy to life with Lindt’s new and innovative Teddy Augmented Reality Advent Calendar 250g. Through the use of a

Lindt’s new and innovative Teddy Augmented Reality Advent Calendar 250g is sure to grab consumers’ interest for the festive season.

Lindt will excite consumers this Christmas with the Lindor Milk Selection Box 234g and Lindor Assorted Selection Box 227g. tempting truffles and heavenly hearts to irresistibly smooth chocolate bars, all made by Master Chocolatiers using the finest ingredients. It’s the perfect gift to delight your loved ones, or yourself, this Christmas.

Nestlé Ireland Nestlé Ireland have announced their Christmas 2023 confectionery line-up, made up of classic holiday treats and brand-new winter wonders. With delicious flavours and textures that capture the spirit of the season, the range offers something for everyone.

Quality Street has introduced a new bar on the block for Christmas 2023. Two favourite flavours have been fused together to create something extraordinary. The new Quality Street Collisions Hazelnut & Caramel Chocolate Sharing Bar brings together indulgent caramel, a smooth hazelnut filling and crunchy hazelnut pieces, all encased in milk chocolate.

In the world of After Eight, a new treat is arriving in time for the festive season, the After Eight Winter Fondant bag is made up of iconic landmark shaped mint fondant sweets. Returning once more is After Eight Gin & Tonic & Mint, featuring a gin and

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Christmas Stocking: Essentials Confectionery Marketing Manager at Nestlé Ireland. “From the indulgence of our Quality Street Collisions Hazelnut & Caramel Chocolate Sharing Bar to the festive fun of the new Smarties Candy Cane Giant Tube, these delights are sure to make the holiday season sweeter!”

Nestlé Ireland have a host of seasonal confectionery available to tantalise consumer taste buds for Christmas. tonic-flavoured mint fondant enrobed in rich dark chocolate.

The seasonal team has also been preparing to spread some holiday cheer with Nestlé's new Smarties Candy Cane Giant Tube and Aero Candy Cane Bubbles, featuring a unique mix of red and white candy cane-themed treats that are perfect for stocking fillers, festive bakes and sharing with loved ones.

Smarties Candy Cane Giant Tube contains a special mix of red and white milk chocolate Smarties, while Aero Candy Cane Bubbles have a delicious, aerated vanilla flavour centre and half red and half white shell.

Rowntree’s Randoms Festives are also new for 2023. Wrapped in winter wonderland-themed packaging, the new sugar pouch contains festive and random jelly shapes in delicious fruity flavours.

White chocolate fans will be keen to try the new Milkybar Speculoos, available in Tesco; it’s the creamy-tasting smooth white chocolate that fans know and love, dotted with crunchy caramelised biscuit pieces.

“Our Christmas 2023 confectionery

Toblerone Toblerone, the famously triangular chocolate, has expanded its iconic range with the addition of new Toblerone Truffles.

The sweet new addition comes in a quirky diamond shape, reinforcing that indulgence is truly never square.

The premium product features individually wrapped diamond-shaped truffles made with Toblerone chocolate around a velvety centre, with tiny pieces of crunchy honey & almond nougat.

After Eight Winter Fondant bag, new from Nestlé Ireland for Christmas. range is a delicious combination of classic favourites with exciting new creations to capture the spirit of Christmas in every bite,” revealed Maria McKenna, Toblerone has launched new Truffles for the Christmas season.

The hugely popular After Eight Gin & Tonic & Mint returns for Christmas 2023.

Toblerone Truffles allow consumers to experience indulgence from every angle. This exciting new product will bring shoppers the iconic high quality of a classic Toblerone product in the form of deliciously different bitesize truffles, perfect for gifting.

Toblerone Truffles aim to recruit younger adult shoppers who have shown an appetite for a slice of indulgence within the premium chocolate segment and in turn help grocers grow the Toblerone premium

7up free is now 7up zero sugar FRESH NEW NAME SAME UPLIFTING TASTE

Join Ireland’s leading family-owned forecourt & convenience retailer.

Ready for an exciting new retail challenge? Maxol is seeking applications for Licensees for a number of service stations in the Dublin City & Leinster region.

These fantastic newly refurbished Maxol forecourts offer state-of-the-art convenience experiences that include: • • • • • •

Modern internal fitout and fixtures Maxol Deli ROSA Coffee A fresh neighbourhood grocery offer New look off-licence / wine section And bags more!

If this opportunity excites you, we want to hear from you!

Download your application pack: www.maxol.ie/business-opportunity

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Christmas Stocking: Essentials gifting offering, with Christmas being the perfect time of year for shoppers to trade up and treat themselves and their loved ones.

The new Truffle gift box (180g) is deliciously different, with each truffle offering a deceptively angular outer shell of iconic Toblerone chocolate before revealing an indulgent smooth and nougatty centre, meaning it is well-positioned to give a decadent touch to the festive season this year. Packed in a gold & red box, it delivers the iconic quality of classic Toblerone products consumers know and love.

“Toblerone Truffles have arrived, and we are delighted to help brand fans celebrate those special moments, whether treating yourself or your loved ones,” noted Maighread Lynch, Brand Manager for Toblerone at Mondelēz. “Toblerone Truffles are the perfect seasonal gift for those who enjoy a slice of indulgence within the premium chocolate segment.”

Gem Pack Foods Gem Christmas Fruit Mixes include a selection of the finest dried fruits that your customers need for making that all-important Christmas Cake or Pudding.

The pack contains the perfect amount, so there’s no need to stock up individual items, saving up space on shelf. It’s so much more convenient for your customers also as there’s no waste.

The Christmas Cake mix contains all the fruit needed for a perfect Christmas cake!

Includes sultanas, raisins, cherries, diced apricots, golden raisins, currants and mixed peel.

Do More in Store this Christmas with PostPoint POSTPOINT is a wholly owned subsidiary of An Post, offering retailers the opportunity to provide a comprehensive range of convenient and essential services in-store.

Do More in Store this Christ mas

Sell Christmas stamps and One4all gift cards Top of the list for PostPoint retailers this Christmas are stamps and One4all gift cards. These products, exclusive to An Post, encourage impulse purchases and drive additional footfall to your store. Christmas stamps are on sale since November 2. Email your order to aprs.orders@anpost.ie or call 1800 300 150.

Place Email: aprs. orders@anp you order by or Call us ost.ie at 1800 30 0 150

PostPoint have a range of stamp packs available for the festive season.

Enter a Christmas Draw with every stamp order Christmas will come early this year for some lucky retailers. PostPoint are giving retailers the opportunity to enter various competitions in the lead-up to Christmas.

They have the latest iPhone 15, PlayStation 5 and €500 One4all gift cards up for grabs. Keep an eye out for correspondence from PostPoint and follow them on social media to find out how you can win.

TFI Leap services TFI Leap was added to the PostPoint range of services in May of this year. Customers can now purchase tickets and top-up Leap cards in PostPoint outlets nationwide.

Customers everywhere can now avail of the convenience and savings to be made on Ireland’s urban and rural link transport network with TFI Leap.

Destination stores Transform your store into a destination hub and offer customers the facility to pay their bills, top-up their phone or Leap card and even pick up and return their online shopping. All Postpoint services are backed up with comprehensive marketing support throughout the year.

PostPoint would like to wish all their retailers a happy and busy Christmas season and thank them for their support throughout the year.

Gem Christmas Fruit Mixes include a selection of the finest dried fruits that your customers need for making that all-important Christmas Cake or Pudding.

Kodak Max Alkaline Batteries Whether it's lighting up the Christmas tree or animating a beloved Santa Claus figurine, shoppers will need reliable batteries to keep the holiday cheer going this year. Kodak Max Alkaline Batteries are the perfect companions for Christmas gadgets, with Kodak Max Alkaline AAs having up to 15 times more power than Zinc batteries. Shoppers can ensure Kodak Max will keep their devices powered with more than just festive cheer this Christmas.

Whether consumers are illuminating a Christmas tree or creating a warm ambiance in their home, Kodak Max Alkaline AA batteries are ideal for string lights and light-up ornaments.

With up to a 10-year storage guarantee when stored correctly, shoppers can enjoy peace of mind, knowing their

Kodak Max Alkaline Batteries are the perfect companions for Christmas gadgets.

Do More in Store this Christmas

One4all Gift Cards

Postage Paid Gift Boxes and Bags

Place you order by Email: aprs.orders@anpost.ie or Call us at 1800 300 150 Retailers, watch out for correspondence from PostPoint detailing competitions we are running in the lead up to Christmas

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Christmas Stocking: Essentials season, make sure you have a stock of Kodak Max Alkaline Batteries ready to infuse your shoppers’ Christmas with the power of enchantment and joy!

Kodak Max Alkaline AAs have up to 15 times more power than Zinc batteries.

Kodak Max Alkaline AAA batteries are up to eight times more powerful than the Zinc equivalent.

batteries are designed to remain useable for many years to come.

Kodak Max Alkaline AAA batteries will help animate Christmas figures like Santa Claus and reindeer. These batteries ensure that festive figurines come to life with smooth and precise movements, delighting both young and old. Max AAAs are also up to eight times more powerful than the Zinc equivalent, meaning you can depend on them when you need them most.

Kodak Max Alkaline Batteries offer the perfect solution for all Christmas needs. So, as you prepare for the holiday

Nivea Shoppers can make someone’s day with this fabulous Nivea Happy Dreams gorgeous gift set (RRP €16). It has The Feel Totally Sensitive Gift Set from Nivea Men has all everything the the sensitive skincare essentials you need for a complete recipient needs to grooming routine. give their skin a beauty-boost ready for the party season, along with a super stylish cosmetic bag.

The full gift set contains Nivea Love Sunshine Shower Gel, Nivea Soft Moisturising Cream, Nivea Pearl & Beauty Anti-Perspirant Deodorant Spray and Nivea Peach Shine Caring Lip Balm, plus the stylish cosmetic bag Shoppers can conquer the five signs of skin irritation with the five-piece Sensitive Gift Set from Nivea Men (RRP €23). This collection has all the sensitive skincare essentials you need for a complete grooming routine, leaving your skin feeling soothed and calm. This is the perfect gift for the man who likes to take care of his skin.

The full gift set includes Nivea Men

Nivea Men Feeling Protected has everything users need to feel fresh and protected for the day ahead.

The Nivea Happy Dreams gorgeous gift set has everything to give skin a beautyboost ready for the party season, along with a super stylish cosmetic bag.

Sensitive Shower Gel, Nivea Men Sensitive Protect Anti-Perspirant Roll-On, Nivea Men Sensitive Face Wash, Nivea Men Sensitive Shaving Foam and Nivea Men Crème.

Nivea Men has got you shoppers covered with the Nivea Men Feel Protected gift set (RRP €11.50), the perfect gift to give someone special this Christmas. It has everything users need to feel fresh and protected for the day ahead. The full gift set includes Nivea Men Protect & Care Deep Cleaning Face Wash, Nivea Men Crème and Nivea Men Cool Kick Anti-Perspirant.

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Christmas Stocking: Essentials

Nicky: a brand for everyone NICKY, which is a part of the Sofidel Group, offers customers and consumers a wide range of products catering to all household requirements, providing gentle everyday toilet tissue in all pack formats, catering to larger and smaller households.

Shoppers can buy larger mega packs, saving time and stocking up on great value. Nicky also offers a great range of kitchen towel ideal for everyday use, either a multipurpose towel for the difficult tasks or a unique lemon scented towel, adding a touch of freshness to the kitchen.

Sustainable packaging Nicky also offers sustainable packaging, whether the product is wrapped in paper or recycled plastic, a more eco-friendly decision.

“Nicky is a brand for everyone, for all households and for all buyers,” says Shane Cassidy, Nicky Ireland’s Country Sales Manager. “It offers great quality products at great value.”

For more information please contact your local sales representative or visit nickytissue.ie.

Nicky offers Irish shoppers a wide range of paper products, catering to all household requirements.

Dont forget your KODAK Batteries!

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Christmas Stocking: Essentials

Think One4all for end-of-year rewards Business owners can reward employees up to €1,000 per annum in One4all Gift Cards, free of tax, PRSI and USC charges.

AS the holiday season approaches and the anticipation of Christmas fills the air, it's time for businesses to take a moment to reflect on the year's accomplishments and recognise the dedication of their staff.

Demonstrating appreciation through rewards and recognition becomes especially crucial during this festive season.

“Through the Small Benefit Exemption Scheme, you can now gift an employee up to €1,000 tax-free, thanks to the increase in the BIK limit,” explained Adrian Krajnik, Senior Sales Development Representative at One4all Rewards. “This means businesses can reward their employees with up to €1,000 per annum in One4all Gift Cards, exempt from tax, PRSI and USC charges, potentially saving up to €1,313.54 per employee (based on giving €1,000 net to an employee on the 40% tax band paying full PRSI and USC). The maximum reward of €1,000 can be split across two payments in one financial year.”

The BIK limit marks a significant opportunity for business owners to boost employee morale and reduce costs simultaneously. “As Christmas approaches, seize this moment to demonstrate your appreciation for your employees and their unwavering dedication,” Adrian urged.

shopping experiences.

The One4all Digital Gift Card is a contactless alternative to traditional gift cards. It can be customised, purchased and sent online through the One4all website. These digital cards are accepted at numerous outlets nationwide, offering a wide range of options for recipients. They are convenient and easily delivered via text or email, making them an excellent choice for rewarding and engaging staff or for personal gifting.

Providing peace of mind One4all aim to provide customers with peace of mind when purchasing their rewards products. “When it comes to financial security, we've got you covered,” Adrian insisted. “All funds on One4all Gift Cards are held in a segregated account, and we're regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Your employees' money is protected, and you can trust us to handle it with care.”

“Watch as your workforce continues to excel in achieving your business objectives, knowing that your investment in their well-being pays dividends in the form of a happier, more engaged and motivated team.”

Supporting Irish retail One4all are proud of the fact that when you choose One4all Gift Cards, you're not just rewarding your employees, you're also supporting Irish retail. The closedloop gift card system ensures that the funds can only be spent in Ireland through Irish retailers, which helps boost the local economy and is great for Irish jobs.

“When you reward with a One4all Gift Card this Christmas, you're bestowing the gift of choice with access to 13,000 outlets nationwide and participating online retailers,” Adrian emphasised. “You can select from renowned brands, as well as options for travel, dining and experiences, delivering true trophy value.”

The One4all Chip & PIN Gift Card allows for higher value loads above €150.

This card complies with EU directives for consumer protection, requiring photo verification for gift cards with values over €150 to prevent online fraud. Recipients can use this card in the same way as a traditional One4all Gift Card for in-store and online purchases, ensuring convenient

Adrian Krajnik, Senior Sales Development Representative at One4all Rewards.

As you prepare to close out the year, ensure your employee rewards are well in hand. The opportunities provided by the increased BIK limit, the versatile One4all Gift Cards and the secure options offered are not to be missed. By choosing One4all, you're not only recognising your employees but also supporting Irish retail and contributing to the local economy. It's an investment in both your team's well-being and your business' success and you'll be set to finish the year on a high note.

For more information, email corpsales@one4all.ie or visit www.one4allrewards.ie to place your order today.

Just BIK-cause...

Daily draw worth over €100 for early orders

Supporting Irish retail

Reward your staff and spread some cheer this Christmas.

Save up to €1,313.54 per employee* Tax-Free gift cards from €15 up to €1,000. Can be spread across 2 gift card payments per calendar year. Accepted in over 13,000 outlets | Physical or digital formatOrder online or at your local Post Office | Fast delivery Place your order before Friday 1st December and you’ll be entered into a Daily Draw to win a hamper and One4all Gift Card worth over €100. Use promo code HAMPER online to enter the draw. Terms and conditions apply, see online for details.

Scan QR code to place your order today

T: 01 870 8181

E: corpsales@one4all.ie

W: one4allrewards.ie

*Employers can give up to €1,000 per employee per annum in One4all® Gift Cards free of any Tax, PRSI & USC Charge. Save up to €1,313.54 per employee. Figures are based on giving €1,000 net to an employee on the 40% tax band paying full PRSI and USC. The maximum reward of €1,000 can be split across two payments in one financial year. The One4all Gift Card is issued by GVS Prepaid (Europe) Ltd. GVS Prepaid (Europe) Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Registration Number: C189313 Marketing Ref:

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Christmas Stocking: Essentials

London Essence: the essence of mixability London Essence, from Britvic Ireland, is a premium range of mixers, designed to accentuate the finest spirits.

FOLLOWING the rise in the popularity of consumers drinking less but better quality liquids, and the long-term trend of lighter, lower calorie and lower sugar drinks, there has been a need for brands to broaden their product offering to include ‘healthier choices’ that strengthen consumers’ overall drinking experience in terms of taste, serve and enjoyment.

At the forefront of this evolving category and lighter drinking movement is London Essence, a premium drinks brand producing elegantly distilled mixers designed to accentuate the finest spirits. Each expression is delicately light at under 20kcal per 100ml, low in sugar at under 4g per 100ml and is crafted without the use of artificial sweeteners, thanks to its unique use of distilled essences.

A premium option “Following the long-term trend towards sugar reduction across the world, and being consumers of premium drinks ourselves, we found that many ‘premium’ options focused on natural credentials but were also very high in sugar,” noted Brian Greer, Marketing Manager at Britvic Ireland. “It’s important to deliver light, natural options that also have great taste to ensure overall enjoyment.”

Through its relationship with the trade experts and conversations with world-leading bartenders, London Essence also recognised that high sugar mixers often overpowered the characteristics of the spirit partner, instead of enhancing them.

With that in mind, the brand took inspiration from its heritage in creating distilled essences which capture the flavour of the finest ingredients to deliver aromatic signature notes and great taste, with only a dusting of sugar.

London Essence is designed to bring out the best in gins, vodkas and dark spirits.

A sophisticated mixer “Thanks to the growing mixer market and continual product innovation, curious consumers now have plenty of options in terms of flavour and pairing,” Brian added.

“However, it is important to offer quality, taste and versatility first and foremost. A sign of a sophisticated mixer is when they

can be enjoyed in any form – with or without a spirit – to satisfy all drinking occasions and preferences. Therefore, not only do we have a fantastic range of tonics and gingers, but also a delicious selection of crafted sodas including our Pink Grapefruit brand.”

The London Essence range is designed to bring out the best in gins, vodkas and dark spirits through mixer varieties, including Original Indian Tonic Water, Grapefruit & Rosemary Tonic, Blood Orange & Elderflower Tonic, Pomelo and Pink Peppercorn Tonic Water and Pink Grapefruit Soda in 6x150ml can packs, as well as their iconic 500ml glass range that includes the Original Indian Tonic Water, Grapefruit & Rosemary Tonic, Blood Orange & Elderflower Tonic, a delicate Ginger Ale and White Peach & Jasmine Soda

7Up: Taste that lifts you up

7UP is the lemon & lime twist that refreshes like no other, helping us enjoy life’s uplifting moments. “At 7UP, it’s tough to get us down,” reveals a 7Up spokesperson. “Whatever comes our way, we keep our head up and stay optimistic.

We believe life’s about enjoying those little everyday moments. Because we know there’s always an UPside. We just have to choose to see it.”

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Christmas Stocking: Essentials

Get your Christmas wiiings PROMISING to vitalise body and mind, Red Bull Energy Drink, alongside its expanding range of editions, will make for the ultimate Christmas 2023 party companion, with wiiings for every taste.

Red Bull Sugar Free serves the no sugar category trend, while the colourful editions, including Tropical, Red (Watermelon), Green (Cactus Fruit), Apricot and Juneberry, provide wiiings for every taste. Red Bull Energy Drink, and now the Tropical and Watermelon editions, are also available in super convenient four-packs, perfect for Christmas get togethers.

Expanding range Available in over 170 countries worldwide, with more than 11.5 billion cans of Red Bull consumed last year, its expanding range of editions and beyond the ordinary marketing strategy see Red

Bull continue to win its way into Irish consumers’ hearts, minds and shopping baskets this Christmas.

Founded in 1987, Red Bull established the energy drinks product category, promising to vitalise body and mind. It is appreciated worldwide by top athletes, students and in highly demanding professions, as well as during long drives.

Giving wiiings to people and ideas, Red Bull is proud to champion Irish sport, supporting Irish athletes in rugby player Mack Hansen, hockey goalkeeper Ayeisha McFerran, surfer Conor Maguire, downhill mountain bike athlete Greg Callaghan and drifter Conor Shanahan.

Visit www.redbull.ie for more inspiring content and follow @RedBullIre on Instagram and TikTok to stay up to More than 11.5 billion cans of Red Bull were date with the latest action and events. consumed last year.

READY FOR THE HOLIDAY HUSTLE?

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12/10/2022 09:50

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Christmas Stocking: Spirits

The festive spirits Christmas is a peak selling period for spirits, both for gift-giving and entertaining at home.

CHRISTMAS is a key selling period for spirits across the country, as consumers stock up on their favourite tipples, both for gift-giving and for entertaining at home.

The last few years have seen a huge rise in cocktail culture, both in the on- and offtrade, as consumers aim to replicate the bar experience in the comfort of their own homes.

According to the latest report into the spirits category from Euromonitor International, the gin bubble appears to have burst in Ireland, with volume sales of the juniper-based spirit having declined sharply in 2022, but they note that vodka could serve as a suitable replacement.

Irish Whiskey too is in sharp growth, as the number of distilleries in the country continues to grow, with the result that the Irish Whiskey category is one of the fastest growing, not just domestically but internationally too.

Non-alcoholic spirits have also witnessed strong growth in recent years, driven by the health and wellness trend, notably amongst young consumers but also older consumers trying to cut back on their alcohol consumption, according to Euromonitor.

O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey Stafford Bonded are proud to share details of their first release, O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey. Crafted by the direct descendants of the O’Driscoll clan, O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey is a tribute to their famous pirate ancestors from Baltimore, West Cork, who patrolled Ireland’s wild Atlantic coast.

The were men of the sea. They were pirates and smugglers who built castles and harbours and by the fifteenth century were one of the strongest clans in Ireland.

It was the wild Atlantic Ocean that was their real domain. O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey is a tribute to those famous men of the sea and encapsulates that wild Atlantic spirit of adventure, bravery and survival.

O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey is an exceptional blend of golden grain and malted barley, triple distilled and aged in bourbon casks for a minimum of three years, giving the signature smoothness of Irish whiskey. Maturation of whiskey is an art form. The influence of 100% bourbon cask maturation beautifully enhances the sweet vanilla profile of O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey.

“We wanted to create an exciting new, pitch perfect - in name, quality, price and

O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey is an exceptional blend of golden grain and malted barley, triple distilled and aged in bourbon casks for a minimum of three years. provenance - Irish whiskey, for people who always seek the best,” said Michael Stafford, Managing Director, Stafford Bonded. “O’Driscolls is a beautifully blended exceptionally smooth Irish Whiskey, inspired by my Grandfather, Diarmuid O’Driscoll, and the O’Driscoll clan, the pirates from Baltimore, West Cork.

O’Driscolls is currently the only Irishowned Irish Whiskey in the standard blend category.

CRAFTED BY THE DIRECT DESCENDANTS OF THE ANCIENT O’DRISCOLL CLAN. A TRIBUTE TO THEIR FAMOUS PIRATE & SMUGGLER ANCESTORS FROM BALTIMORE, WEST CORK WHO PATROLLED IRELAND’S WILD ATLANTIC COAST PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY

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Christmas Stocking: Spirits “In terms of sales. Irish whiskey is the second biggest spirit in Ireland,” he added. “With O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey, our ambition is to introduce people to a premium Irish alternative to the industrially produced multinational Irish whiskey brands. We make it in traditional timehonoured fashion, but our exciting new brand speaks to the modern consumer.”

O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey enters the Irish Whiskey market as a competitively priced brand within the standard Irish Whiskey category.

“Irish whiskey is in a renaissance and the category is becoming more premiumised”, noted Michael Stafford. “Given O’Driscolls positioning within the Irish whiskey market, we can provide a high quality, competitively priced challenger brand to the category leaders. Our desire is to penetrate the mainstream Irish whiskey category by giving distributors and retailers the opportunity to drive a category exclusive offering.”

O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey is produced in Dundalk, with an ABV of 40%, and an RRP of €30. istil 38 Ireland has a new homegrown premium vodka – introducing istil 38, a pure spirit made by traditional methods for a modern era Now more than ever, sustainability, supporting local businesses, and the

sourcing of ingredients nearest to home is something more and more of us aspire to. And while vodka may not be the first spirit that comes to mind when one thinks of Ireland, it is among the most popular among Irish consumers.

Produced in Ireland in a traditional 500-litre copper pot still using grain spirit and natural spring water, istil 38 is slow distilled four times, which leaves the vodka so pure that it needs no further filtration, resulting in a highly finessed quality and a soft, velvety mouthfeel. istil 38 (38% ABV) has three expressions in its range: a classic vodka and two flavours, Pink Berries and Vanilla.

And while the distillation method may be traditional, each istil 38 iteration is designed to be enjoyed with thoroughly modern serves, whether mixed into a long drink or blended into one of the world’s most beloved cocktails.

The classic istil 38 Pot Still Irish Vodka is smooth and rich enough to enjoy neat but also works wonderfully mixed with soda and fresh lime. istil 38 Pot Still Pink Berries Vodka is flavoured with Irish berries to give it a fruity sweetness that pairs beautifully with citrus tonic waters.

And istil 38 Pot Still Vanilla Vodka is crafted with Madagascan vanilla and its recipe was specifically formulated to be the ideal base for two of the world’s most popular cocktails – the Espresso Martini and the Pornstar Martini.

Irish vodka brand, istil 38 has three expressions in its range: a classic vodka and two flavours, Pink Berries and Vanilla.

Cointreau has been given a redesign, with bottles now made from twothirds recycled glass.

Cointreau Cointreau, distributed by Barry & Fitzwilliam, has launched a redesigned version of its liqueur bottles, which are now made from two-thirds recycled glass.

Describing the brand refresh as the “most momentous of its kind in 140 years”, both the bottle and the label have been altered.

As well as looking to boost its sustainability credentials by using recycled glass, convenience and practicality were also considerations when redesigning the bottle.

The bottle has been made four millimetres taller to facilitate its grip and make it easier to hold. Similarly, the newly textured cap provides better grip for an easier twist-off, while simulating the skin of an orange.

However, the bottle still displays traditional design features such as the Cointreau medallion.

Spirit lovers, both past and present, recognise Cointreau as a core building block in premium cocktails creation.

Cointreau is the cornerstone of more than 350 internationally renowned cocktails such as the Margarita, Sidecar and Cosmopolitan. It enhances cocktails with its perfect balance. Check out cointrau.com for some cocktail ideas.

For more than 30 years, the finest orange peels are carefully selected by Master Distiller, Carole Quinton, to create the definitive orange liqueur.

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Christmas Stocking: Spirits Disaronno Disaronno enjoys cult status as an Italian style icon: smooth taste, unmistakable aroma, unique and distinctive design of the bottle, original square cap and the golden label that adds a sense of contemporary elegance and style.

Disaronno, an Italian icon that enjoys cult status here in Ireland.

Disaronno is the proud ambassador of the ‘Endless Dolce Vita’, telling a story through the iconic postcards of the Italian beauty, thanks to a new world of reference.

La Dolce Vita, the endless pursuit of pleasure, is an attitude, a lifestyle ascribed to the Italians. The “contemporary dolce vita” lifestyle is full of worldly immersive pleasures. Disaronno Amaretto captures the senses with its amber colour, rich aroma and incomparable taste, which has made it the world's favourite Italian liqueur.

Consumers can enjoy Disaronno their way, in a cocktail or even with cola & a slice of lemon, this festive season. In fact, Disaronno can be part of more than 100 perfect mixes, including the Disaronno Sour, a unique and refreshing drink in which the distinctive notes of Disaronno blend with the scent of freshly-squeezed lemons.

Tia Maria Tia Maria, distributed by Barry & Fitzwilliam, has been designed for the Espresso Martini. It is the must-have ingredient for this classic cocktail. The Espresso Martini is the seventh most popular cocktail sold in the world. The Tia Espresso Martini has been the classic evening pick-me-up since its creation in the 1980s. It’s as delicious today as it’s always been.

The combination of Cold Brew Coffee & Hot Espresso Coffee enhances the true coffee taste in your Espresso Martini.

Made with Madagascar vanilla, Jamaican rum and 100% arabica coffee, Tia Maria has a classic roasted, full-bodied and

rich taste. An exclusive cold brew extraction process gives it its distinctive intense coffee aroma, which is followed by notes of chocolate and pipe tobacco, caramelised cane sugar and vanilla.

Hendrick’s The perfect gift for a loved one, Hendrick’s gin is a deliciously Made with Madagascar super premium vanilla, Jamaican rum gin, made with and 100% arabica coffee, Tia Maria has a number of unusual twists. a classic roasted, fullbodied and rich taste.

To deliver a most curious and delightfully unique flavour, Hendrick's combines a distinct blend of eleven botanicals, as well as the signature infusions of cucumber and rose petals, producing a wonderfully refreshing gin with a delightfully unique aroma.

Hand crafted in Scotland in miniscule batches by William Grant & Sons, Hendrick's is the only gin that uses a marriage of spirits from both Carterhead and Bennett Copper Pot Still, a combination that produces a Hendrick’s Gin divinely smooth Christmas gift box gin that has both is now available in the required leading retailers character and nationwide with an balance of subtle RRP of €38. flavours.

Distributor Richmond Marketing are encouraging shoppers to ‘Put A Little Hendrick’s in Your Holidays’ with their ‘maestro of the gin and tonic’ Christmas gift box, now available in leading retailers nationwide with an RRP of €38.

Fercullen Distillery Select The Powerscourt Distillery have announced a distinct and exclusive offering, Fercullen Distillery Select, a 17-year-old Single Malt, matured to perfection and uniquely finished in Apple Brandy Quarter Casks. With an RRP of €150, this strictly limited release is available while stocks last directly from the Distillery Visitors Centre or online: powerscourtdistillery.com/product/ distilleryselect.

This 17-year-old whiskey was bottled in September 2023 and springs from the distillery's quest for innovation. The distillery, always pursuing unparalleled flavour profiles, sourced these specialised quarter casks from Riverdrive Cooperage in Maine, USA. With a size of roughly 60 litres, these casks, due to their wood-towhiskey ratio, offer accelerated maturation, enveloping the whiskey in rich undertones in a shorter duration.

But what sets this release apart? Apple Brandy - a double distilled elixir made from fermented apple juice, boasting a luminous amber hue and a robust, full-bodied flavour profile. Known also as 'Apple Jack', American apple brandy, matured in charred fresh oak barrels, imparts a delightful sweetness reminiscent of bourbon.

New from the Powerscourt Distillery: Fercullen Distillery Select, a 17-year-old Single Malt, matured to perfection and uniquely finished in Apple Brandy Quarter Casks.

This Distillery Select is the first release from Powerscourt Distillery utilising quarter casks for finishing. The outcome: a limited edition of 258 individually numbered bottles, bottled at 46% ABV, non-chill filtered and true to its natural colour.

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Christmas Stocking: Beer and Cider

Liquid gold Beer and cider sales are set to soar for the festive season.

BEER and cider enjoy strong off-trade sales over the festive season as shoppers stock up on their favourite brands for at-home entertaining and yuletide parties.

Most of the country’s biggest brands will have festive packs available, with high profile POS material available to highlight these to your customers.

Sales of non-alcoholic beer too continue to grow, as more consumers choose to drink alcohol-free alternatives at least some of the time.

Craft beers and ciders have also captured consumers’ imagination, with the Irish Craft Beer & Cider Report, released in September, showing that consumption of beer declined in Ireland by 2.1% since 2017, while that of Irish craft beer rose by 13.5%. There was also an increase in market share of the 79 independent microbreweries that are currently in operation in the Republic of Ireland, as consumption of craft beer rose from 2.9% in 2017 to 3.4% in 2022.

In recent years consumers have embraced independent beverage options. There are currently 12 craft cider producers in Ireland, and craft cider production accounts for 2.2% of total domestic cider consumption.

Highlighting the importance of local business, Irish cider producers generated over 50% of sales within 50 kilometres of the producers’ premises. On average 52.9% of apples and pears used in craft products are sourced from the producers’ own orchard.

James Dunne, Board Director at Independent Craft Brewers of Ireland and Operations Director at Galway Bay Brewery, said: “It’s reassuring that the craft beer market is growing, albeit at a low rate. It’s also reassuring that we see that exports are growing strongly and that’s a key focus for Irish craft beer companies. In particular, the focus on the green economy and sustainability is always key for exports.”

Jennifer Wallace of Drinks Ireland commented: “Growth in the craft beer and cider categories brings great choice for consumers and exciting innovations. These businesses, spread throughout the country, are important local employers and catalysts of economic activity in their locality. Many too are developing their tourism offering.”

Pictured at the launch of the Irish Craft Beer & Cider Report are Michael Jacob, Drinks Sector Manager at Bord Bia; Jennifer Wallace, Director of Drinks Ireland | Beer and Drinks Ireland | Cider; and James Dunne, Operations Director at Galway Bay Brewery and Board Director at Independent Craft Brewers of Ireland.

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Christmas Stocking: Beer and Cider

Rí-Rá Irish Lager from Rí-Rá Brewing Co. in North Wicklow.

Guinness Nitrosurge: the perfect gift for the Guinness lover in your life.

Guinness Nitrosurge We all have a Guinness lover in our life.

Someone who loves the ritual of the twopart pour. The sight of a smooth, domed head peeking over the rim of the glass.

The iconic taste of a cold satisfying pint of Guinness. It may even be you! This festive season, shoppers can bring the magic home and share the gift of Guinness Nitrosurge.

This device uses innovative ultrasound technology that connects to the top of the Guinness Nitrosurge can, resulting in a pint of beautiful Guinness with a smooth, domed head and that iconic, satisfying surge. The technology puts the craft of the famed twopart pour in the user’s hands, no matter where they are. It’s the perfect gift for a friend or even for yourself, and ideal for hosting at home this Christmas!

The Guinness Nitrosurge device, which is reusable and rechargeable, delivers an incredible 100 perfect pours per charge and is available from retailers at a recommended retail price of €29.99.

Just in time for hosting this Christmas, the new Guinness Nitrosurge 10 x 558ml can refill pack is available in stores nationwide from November. To find out more, visit nitrosurge.guinness.com.

Madrí Excepcional Madrí Excepcional, the Mediterranean style lager, brought ‘El Alma de Madrid’ or the soul of Madrid to Tucker Reilly’s on Camden Street, Dublin, in early November, celebrating Spanish culture with a Dublin twist.

A key brand within the Molson Coors portfolio, Madrí Excepcional goes from strength to strength and is one of the leading brands in the premium world beer category. The category has tripled in size in Ireland since 2019 (MAT data, June 2023),

buaille.

“We named ourselves Rí-Rá because we think it sums up that unpredictable divilment that Irish people are so good at,” said the team behind the brand. “That uniquely Irish streak of misneach is the antithesis to a data-driven world. Our ruaille buaille turns good moments into savage memories."

Molloy’s offer hamper selection for Christmas

Madrí Excepcional brought the soul of Madrid to the capital, celebrating Spanish culture with a Dublin twist. and within this category, Madrí Excepcional is now the fastest growing brand in Ireland and the UK. Madrí Excepcional has seen particularly positive growth in off trade.

In Q2 2023 (April - June period), the brand grew by 200%, outperforming the value growth of the off trade world beer category by more than ten-fold.

“Madrí Excepcional was born through a collaboration with Molson Coors and La Sagra brewery, combining our brewing experience,” explained Sophie Mitchell, Senior Brand Manager at Madrí Excepcional.

Rí-Rá An independently owned Wicklow brewing company has raised the bar with its brandnew Irish lager, created in collaboration with a former Master Brewer at Guinness.

Brewed In North Wicklow, Rí-Rá Irish Lager from Rí-Rá Brewing Co. aims to infuse every occasion with rí-rá agus ruaille

MOLLOY’S have a range of decadent Christmas hampers available this festive season. With over 90 years of experience, the Irish family business are celebrating their 90th anniversary this year. Molloy’s are experts in all things wine, beers & spirits, so they can help shoppers with whatever they need this Christmas, whether planning a special gift or hosting a Christmas soirée.

Molloy’s import many wines direct from the vineyard, allowing them to pass on these savings to their customers, while they also have one of the largest selections of craft beer in Ireland. Add in spirits, mixers and cocktail shakers, they can help customers to host the perfect Christmas party!

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Christmas Stocking: Wine

A sparkling success Jean Smullen highlights some of the finest Champagne, sparkling wine and Christmas specials to stock for the festive season.

DRINKS Ireland – Wine, part of the Ibec business association, released their Irish Wine Market Report 2022 last month, highlighting data pertaining to wine sales in Ireland for that year. During 2022, 8.8 million cases of wine were sold on the Irish market, down by -17% from the market peak of 10.1 million cases during the Covid lockdown.

Wine now accounts for 26.7% of alcohol consumption by category. The 2022 figures show wine sales decreased by -8.9%, reflecting the re-opening of the on-trade and the expected post-pandemic softening of retail sales. Beer increased its category share by +8.2% in 2022 to 43.5% of the total market, which means beer remains Ireland’s most popular alcoholic beverage.

63.5% of all wines sold on the Irish market come from the New World, with 36.5% coming from Europe. Chile, with 25%, remained the most popular country of origin in 2022, followed by Spain on 14%, Australia with 13.6%, France at 11.6%, and Italy with 10.4%.

Sales of sparkling wine increased significantly during 2022, driven primarily by the popularity of wine styles such as Prosecco and Crémant, as well as Cava and Champagne. Following years of steady increases, sales of Rosé dropped to 6% of

the total market, down from 7% the previous year. White wine accounts for 48% of all still wines sold in Ireland and red wine has a 45% share of the market (Source: Drinks Ireland Wine Report 2023).

With sales of Champagne and sparkling wine showing strong growth, it’s time to look at what to stock in the run-up to the busy pre-Christmas selling season.

Barry & Fitzwilliam Celebrity wines are notching up the sales now and there are a lot of them. Since launching in 2020, Kylie Minogue Wines have sold 9 million bottles, which means over 43 million glasses Kylie Minogue Wines have evolved into a of Kylie Minogue Wines have worldwide phenomenon with a glass of Kylie been poured globally in the last three years. Kylie Minogue Wines Minogue Prosecco Rosé sold every six seconds. have evolved into a worldwide Cotes des Provence, Signature Rosé phenomenon with a glass of and Alcohol Free Sparkling Rosé. This Kylie Minogue Prosecco Rosé sold every Signature range comprises of two wines 6 seconds. [source: Nielsen EPOS volume from France, including the delicate pale-dry sales- Total UK Off Trade to 11th March rosé made from Cabernet and Carignan 2023] grapes, and a light and zesty Sauvignon Kylie Minogue now has five Rosés in Blanc from Gascony. her wine portfolio - Sparkling Prosecco This Christmas season, make sure you Spumante, Sparkling Prosecco Frizzante,

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Christmas Stocking: Wine

Villa Maria is Ireland’s number one New Zealand wine brand.

stock Kylie Minogue Frizzante Rosé RRP €15. Produced in the heart of the Prosecco region, this pale pink Rosé comes in a very distinctive decorative bottle that highlights the wine’s saleability. With floral aromas and lots of red apple flavours, this lightly sparkling wine is bound to hold appeal for the Christmas celebration market.

Another rising star of the wine world is the Graham Norton range of wines, now featuring strongly in the annual Retail News Top 20 Wine Brands. Graham Norton’s Own Frizzante Bianco and Rosé Prosecco will be on offer in Super Valu for €11.49 during November & December. Prosecco DOC Rosé was granted production approval

by Italy’s Ministry of Agriculture just over four years ago. Today, the range is gaining more and more followers and has become enormously popular. The GN Rosé Prosecco is made from Glera and Pinot Noir, has light bubbles and tonnes of strawberry fruit flavours.

Graham Norton has really captured the heart of the Irish wine consumer since he first joined the illustrious ranks of the Irish wine diaspora in 2014 with his first vintage of Graham Norton’s Own Sauvignon Blanc. A decade on, there are now nine wines in the range, all very popular wine styles. Make sure you have the popular GN Frizzante Prosecco; with lots of pear flavours and lightly sparkling bubbles, it is the perfect Prosecco to recommend for Christmas celebrations.

Also from Barry & Fitzwilliam, Villa Maria is Ireland’s number one New Zealand wine brand. Villa Maria's extensive portfolio is one of the most geographically and stylistically diverse and highly-awarded ranges of premium wines by any New Zealand producer, fuelling consumer adoration and success across the globe.

In Ireland, we have the Private Bin range available, most famously known for the Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, yet other varietals are available, such as Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Riesling and Pinot Noir.

The McGuigan Zero range offers an unparalleled alcohol-free experience.

Villa Maria wines have a fresh new look for the Private Bin range, with the same outstanding quality in a new contemporary pack. The high tier Cellar Selection Pinot Noir and the Reserve Wairau Sauvignon Blanc are also available in the Irish market.

The most recent launch from Villa Maria is the beautiful Sauvignon Blush, Sauvignon Blanc with a hint of Merlot. Delivering the taste experience of New Zealand’s favourite white wine with a playful fun factor that opens up a whole new occasion for Sauvignon Blanc, it’s 90% Sauvignon Blanc, caressed with 10% Merlot for a beautiful ‘Provence-like’ blush. Looks like Rosé, tastes like Sauvignon Blanc.

McGuigan wines continue to outperform the market as the number one Australian Wine brand in Ireland. The Black Label range comprises a Cabernet, Shiraz, Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Rosé and Malbec. McGuigan Frizzante is a light style of sparkling, full of lively yet delicate bubbles that give a crisp and refreshing sparkle.

The latest addition to the McGuigan Portfolio is McGuigan Zero, offering unrivalled taste, zero alcohol – for everyone, everywhere. The McGuigan Zero range offers an unparalleled alcohol-free experience both on the nose and palate.

Launched with Shiraz, Chardonnay, Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc and Sparkling, McGuigan Zero is created using state-of-the-art spinning cone technology. By drawing the wine into super fine layers for efficient vaporisation, alcohol may be removed at lower temperatures than ever before, thus resulting in a truly beautiful tasting product.

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Christmas Stocking: Wine Bibendum Ireland Make sure you stock the Bottega Prosecco Gold and Rose Glamours twin gift packs, a sparkling addition to the Bibendum Ireland Christmas range, with three eyecatching seasonal packaging formats; Bottega Prosecco Spumante Gold, Bottega Spumante Rose Gold and Bottega snipe twin pack featuring both the Gold and Rose Gold.

The Medalla Real brand was created in 1983 to honour Francisco Garcia de Huidobro, ancestor of the founding family of Santa Rita and Marques of Casa Real, who established the first money house in Chile. The brand logo shows this ‘Royal Medal’ with the symbol of the royal Spanish Crown. In 1987, before the Maipo Valley gained global recognition, a bottle of the 1984 vintage of Medalla Real Cabernet Sauvignon changed the history of Chilean wine. Defeating over 35 participants, including wines from France, Spain, and California’s Napa Valley, Medalla Real became the first Chilean wine to win a gold medal in the Olympiades du Vin hosted by Gault & Millau in Paris. This recognition positioned Chile and the Maipo Valley

Perfect for Christmas: the Bottega snipe twin pack featuring both the Gold and Rose Gold. as one of the best places in the world to produce Cabernet Sauvignon. Look out for FSDU displays of the Santa Rita Medalla Real Reserva range, highlighting the Casablanca Sauvignon Blanc and the Maipo Cabernet Sauvignon in Next Door outlets in the run-up to Christmas.

Santa Rita Reserva wines are young, fruity, dynamic and well-structured. The winemaker’s objective is to create wines that best reflect the characteristic aromas and flavours of each variety. These wines also have the complexity, concentration, elegance and balance that provide a well-

Santa Maria Medalla Real: one of the standout ranges from the top-selling Chilean brand. rounded, long-lasting expression.

Santa Rita were among the big winners at NOffLA annual Irish Wine Show Star Awards, where Santa Rita Estate Reserve Semillon won Best New World White Under €12. The Semillon has an elegant golden colour. Its shows soft aromas of pear, cantaloupe and a touch of banana, nicely complemented with white roses and honey caramel. Is balanced and has a smooth mouth-feel, it is fresh and has a lingering finish.

Santa Rita 120 is the number one selling wine brand on the Chilean home market and is also one of the top wine brands in 12 key global markets, including China, the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada. Here in Ireland, Santa Rita 120 has remained Ireland’s top selling wine brand for nine consecutive years. The Santa Rita 120 range will be on promotional offer in Applegreen in November and December 2023 for €11.

[Yellow Tail] is an Australian classic that was voted “world’s most loved wine” for the sixth year in a row by Wine Intelligence.

Named after the yellow-footed rock wallaby, the fruit-forward style of their varietal range has long been a firm favourite with Irish wine drinkers. Look out for it on offer in November in SuperValu and in Dunnes Stores in November and December.

Casillero del Diablo ‘Wine so special it is protected by the Devil’: the tag-line from the iconic TV ad. I recently attended a tasting in a converted

railway arch in central London to taste the Casillero del Diablo range with their wine maker, Marcello Papa, and a large turnout from the UK wine press. The story centres around the premise that over 130 years ago, Don Melchor de Concha y Toro kept thieves away from his private wine collection by spreading rumours that the devil himself haunted the cellar; and thus, Casillero del Diablo was born.

Today their global advertising campaign is fronted Chilean/American star, Pedro Pascal, Casillero del Diablo’s global brand ambassador, who was recently voted as one of the Top 100 influential people of the year by Time magazine. The Casillero del Diablo wine brand was originally launched in the 1960s and today is one of the world’s biggest wine brands. Owned by Concha y Toro, they sell 7.2 million cases of their wines globally every year. Casillero del Diablo comes in number one in its native Chile and here in Ireland is in second place in terms of volume sales.

This Christmas, they are introducing Casillero del Diablo Reserva Especial, the tier up from the well-known Reserva range, and the perfect trade-up to treat family

Casillero del Diablo Reserva Especial Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc, a tier up from the hugely popular Reserva range. and friends over Christmas. Make the best of every festive moment with Casillero del Diablo Reserva Especial Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc.

The Casillero del Diablo Reserva range is priced at €14 and is available across Tesco and Dunnes Stores nationwide.

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Christmas Stocking: Wine Comans Beverages Dada is one of the fastest growing brands on the Irish wine market, having entered the top five in the Retail News Top 20 Wine Brands this year, up from ninth position in 2020. The success story of this wine brand, since it was first launched five years ago, is phenomenal. The range is made up of Dada 1, made from a blend of Malbec and Bonarda, Dada 2 Merlot and Dada 3 Cabernet/Shiraz.

Mionetto Prosecco is Italy’s favourite brand of Prosecco. The winery was founded in Valdobbiadene in 1887 by master winemaker Francesco Mionetto, where today the wine is still produced on the original site. On international markets, Mionetto Prosecco achieves the highest volume sales where it outperforms many other leading Dada, one of Prosecco brands. Mionetto the fastest growing wine Prosecco, a global name in Prosecco, has become brands in a firm favorite with Irish Ireland.

consumers.

Comans have expanded their Mionetto range to include two new products, the Bio Organic DOC Brut Prosecco (RRP €18-20) and the Non-Alcoholic Frizzante Prosecco (RRP €10), which join the Spumante, Spumante Rosé and Frizzante to complete the range.

The wines of Perelada were first produced in the 14th century in a monastic settlement in the DO Empordà, located close to the French border near the

Mama Chianti DOC and Colombaio di Cencio Chianti Classico, two new Chiantis from Comans Beverages.

The Mionetto range now includes two new products: the Bio Organic DOC Brut Prosecco and the Non-Alcoholic Frizzante Prosecco.

The Perelada Brut Cava and Perelada Rosé: quality wines at a competitive price point.

Costa Brava. The climate in Empordà is Mediterranean and influenced by the nearby Pyrenees mountains. This Perelada Brut Cava is made from a blend of Macabeo (30%), Xarel·lo (45%), Parellada (25%). The Brut is aged for 15 months in bottle before disgorgement and is a complex Cava, made to go with food. The Perelada Rosé is made from a blend of Garnatxa (70%), Pinot Noir (15%), Trepat (15%) and spends a minimum of 12 months in bottle before disgorging.

Comans are hoping to capitalise on the recent resurgence in the popularity of Cava with these quality wines at a competitive price point; look out for the Brut at €18-20 and the Rosé priced €19-21.

Comans also have two brand new Chiantis from Tuscany. Chianti is still the dominant focus in Tuscan viticulture. It is the great wine of the central Tuscan hills and the delimited areas stretches from south of Florence to north of Siena in what is today the Classico district. The grape mix varies greatly in Chianti, depending

on the style of wine required. In Classico, most estates make their wines from 100% Sangiovese. The Mama Chianti DOC (RRP €20-22) is worth a look; Sangiovese is the real soul of this wine. The climate and the soil of Certosa di Belriguardo give this wine a strong personality.

The Colombaio di Cencio Chianti Classico (RRP €25-28) comes from Monticello, where the fruit is grown in the estate-owned vineyards in Loc. Cornia, Montelodoli and Vinci. A premium wine, this will appeal to the wine enthusiast as the perfect Christmas gift.

Delegat Wines The philosophy of Oyster Bay New Zealand is to produce fine, distinctively regional wines that are elegant and assertive with glorious fruit flavours, wines that drink well within a year or two of the vintages, yet possess the balance of structure to reward keeping. Oyster Bay New Zealand is owned

by Delegat Limited, who for 60 years have been one of New Zealand's largest familyowned wine companies.

New Zealand wines are enormously popular and Oyster Bay is Ireland’s top selling New Zealand wine brand. Their wines are always a firm favourite at Christmas. There are six wines in the Oyster Bay range: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and two sparkling wines.

In the run-up to Christmas 2023 look out for the Oyster Bay Sparkling

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Christmas Stocking: Wine

Oyster Bay is the top-selling New Zealand wine brand in Ireland.

(25%) for the floral notes and mouth-feel.

Other production techniques include night harvesting (to keep the fruit fresh), dry ice to keep the fruit containers chilled and then the chilled fruit goes directly into the press, whole.

Whispering Angel is now owned by LVMH and this is the Provençal Rosé that created the wine trend that changed the face of the global wine market. The 17th vintage was released this year and is a ‘must stock’, especially for the Christmas market. Whispering Angel Côtes de Provence 2022 is now available with an RSP of €26.65.

Moët Imperial Brut (RRP €61), the signature expression of the housestyle, Moët Impérial, brings together an accomplished assemblage of the three main grape varieties of Champagne and the ancestral winemaking tradition that has made the global success of the Maison. Or why not stock the Moët & Chandon Imperial Brut Rosé (RRP €68.45) to add some sparkle to festivities this year with the ideal gift for champagne lovers?

wine range, which are guaranteed to be in demand. Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvée Rosé (RRP €18-22) is a blend of 20% Pinot Noir and 80% Chardonnay, while Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvée Brut (RRP €18-22) is made from 100% Chardonnay. Both are worth stocking, good examples of good quality new world fizz. Dunnes will have these on price offer during November and December this year.

Edward Dillon & Co. Château d’Esclans lies in the centre of the Department of the Var where the majority of Provence AOP rosé is produced. The primary grape grown here is Grenache, followed by Vermentino (Rolle).

The Château is known for its old Grenache vines which produce grapes with greater concentration of flavour.

Whispering Angel, the flagship wine, is a dry Rosé with almost minimal residual sugar but with a broader fruit profile. The house style is a blend of Grenache (85%) for the red berry fruit flavours and Vermentino/Rolle

Whispering Angel is the Provençal Rosé that created the wine trend that changed the face of the global wine market and is a ‘must stock’ for the Christmas market.

Diablo Wines Diablo wines are perfect for festive gatherings this Christmas. Priced at €14 per bottle, Diablo Dark Red and Diablo Crystal Sauvignon Blanc are not only an ideal gift for the host this season, but also the perfect wine to serve to friends over dinner or at a cosy family get-together.

The Diablo Dark Red is intense with its deep red colour and seduces with its attractive touch of black fruits and delicate notes of mocha and

creamy vanilla.

The Crystal Sauvignon Blanc has a paleyellow colour and surprises from the outset with its freshness and delicate touches of white peach.

Diablo wines: perfect for Christmas gatherings.

Ampersand For wine retailers looking to stock up on Champagne and sparkling wine this Christmas season, Ampersand Wines have recently added the Prestige des Sacres Champagne to their portfolio. Prestige des Sacres is deeply rooted in the history of France, with its origins dating back to the coronation of 33 French kings in Reims, in the heart of the Champagne Appellation area.

Look out for another recent addition from Arthur Metz, a range of Crémant d ’Alsace wines that are guaranteed to be popular. Ampersand Wines have also added to their portfolio a selection of sparkling wines from Calvet, with a very attractive bottle and packaging offering. Retailers should also consider non-alcoholic options, by stocking Ampersand’s award-winning Faber Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Wine.

Ampersand Wines have a few new offerings from their still wine portfolio that offer good value from a classic wine region.

Chateau Bouquey Grand Cru St-Emilion, is a great addition to their premium range. Look out too for Jardins de Loire Sancerre, from the Loire Valley, a wine style that always sells well during the holiday season.

Cassidy Wines Most Cava is produced in Catalonia in Northern Spain. This Christmas, make sure you stock the NV Marqués de Cáceres Cava (RRP €24.99), made from 50% Xarel.lo, 30% Macabeo, 20%. Cassidy Wines distribute this premium Cava and it will be on offer in the run up to Christmas at a reduced price of €21.99.

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Nivea

Winter skin saviours from Nivea NIVEA, Ireland’s number one skincare brand, has the best winter skin saviours to give shoppers’ skin the boost it needs to stay nourished, moisturised and glowing all winter long. With winter around the corner, it’s time to think about protecting your skin from harsh winter conditions; skin can become dry in the winter months as wind, cold air and heating affect the skin’s natural moisture balance.

Nivea Rich Nourishing Body Lotion, 400ml (RRP €8.25) Transform dry skin into deeply moisturised and noticeably smoother skin with Nivea Rich Nourishing Body Lotion.

The formula contains Nivea Deep Moisture Serum, natural Almond Oil and Vitamin E to lock in moisture, leaving you

with noticeably smoother skin for 48 hours.

With a rich and creamy texture, the Nivea Rich Nourishing Body Lotion reduces the roughness of dry to very dry skin after the first application and offers long lasting relief from dry skin, an effect you can not only feel but also see.

Nivea Intensive Moisture Hand Cream, 100ml (RRP €5.25) Nivea Intensive Moisture Hand Cream, enriched with Almond Oil, provides superior performance and deep nourishment for your hands. The gentle, vegan formula with a unique Nivea scent leaves hands smooth and soft for 24 hours, offering the best of Nivea, just for your hands. Offering a fast absorption with a rich and intensive moisture, the Nivea Intensive

Moisture Hand Cream nourishes dry to very dry skin, ensuring hands are protected from the stress of dry skin.

Nivea Soft Tube 75ml (RRP €4.45) Nivea Soft has been described as the ultimate multi use cream, for everyday use. Nivea Soft is ideal for anyone who prefers a low maintenance approach to skincare or better yet, the perfect dupe if you are after a cost effective but quality moisturiser.

Effective as cold cream, for prepping the skin ahead of fake tanning, softening dry cuticles, relieving itchy or flay skin or for topical use as a foot cream or beard moisturiser – its uses are limitless.

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60|Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Irish Wine Show Star Awards

Top cellars!

The 2023-2024 Irish Wine Show Star Award Winners have been announced.

THE National Off-Licence Association (NOffLA) recently awarded their Irish Wine Show Star Awards to 54 wines. The annual event, now in its 22nd year, was hosted at the Morrison Hotel in Dublin, with the winning wines available to consumers from NOffLA outlets across Ireland in the busy run-up to the festive season and beyond.

“We are excited to honour the outstanding wines that NOffLA members sell across the country and that our wonderful customers enjoy,” noted Cathal McHugh, Chairman of NOffLA. “I want to congratulate all of the winners this evening and thank everyone who submitted an application this year.”

Ideal Christmas gifts In excess of 600 wines were submitted to the Star Award adjudication panel of NOffLA judges and independent wine journalists. Points were awarded on the basis of appearance, smell, taste and value for money criteria, and the winning 54 were selected as the best wines from key suppliers across a number of price categories.

Each of the winning wines will be sold in NOffLA member outlets across the country and will be recognisable by distinctive Award symbols on each bottle. In the preChristmas period, NOffLA members will promote the Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2023-2024 Collection as ideal Christmas gifts, in a variety of special gift packs.

Punitive excise levels At the event, NOffLA also expressed their members’ disappointment that Ireland continues to levy the highest excise on wine across the EU and UK. NOffLA hoped

All the winners at the 2023-2024 Irish Wine Show Star Awards.

to see a reduction in excise duty as part of Budget 2024, and along with the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI), had called for a 7.5% reduction in alcohol excise levels, supported by a further 7.5% reduction next year, to bring Ireland’s alcohol excise regime in line with European levels and to also help protect the commercial viability of businesses within the Irish drinks sector in an increasingly challenging trading environment.

“Unfortunately, Irish drinks sector businesses are burdened with the highest levels of alcohol excise in the EU and UK, and excise increases from a decade ago remain in place and continue to impact these small, independent businesses,” noted Cathal McHugh at the event. He argued that “with Minimum Unit Pricing coming into effect early last year, which now safeguards against the retailing of alcohol at dangerously low prices, Ireland’s punitively high excise levels are no longer justified from a public health perspective.”

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Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2023-24 Gold Star Award Winners Category

Wine

Vintage

Company

Old World White under €12

Hans Baer Riesling

2022

Ampersand Wines

Old World White under €15

Remy Pannier Cepage de Loire Sauvignon

2022

Ampersand Wines

Old World White under €20

Gabel Riesling Trocken Organic

2022

Febvre Wines

New World White under €12

Santa Rita Estate Reserve Semillon

2017

Bibendum Ireland

New World White under €15

Growers Touch Sauvignon Blanc

2022

MCM Spirits & Liqueurs

New World White under €20

KONO Sauvignon Blanc

2022

Mackenway Wines

Old World Red under €12

Rioja Vega Semi Crianza

2022

Ampersand Wines

Old World Red under €15

El Perdiguero Crianza

2020

Mackenway Wines

Old World Red under €20

Portia Crianza Tempranillo

2019

Richmond Marketing

New World Red under €12

Carmen Premier 1850 Cabernet Sauvignon

2015

Bibendum Ireland

New World Red under €15

Nuevo Mundo Cabernet Sauvignon, Organic

2020

Febvre Wines

New World Red under €20

Cabernario No.8 Cabernet Sauvignon

2017

Bibendum Ireland

Rosé under €15

Alpha Zeta 'R' Rosato Veronese

2022

Liberty Wines Ltd.

Sparkling under €25

Villa Conchi, Cava Brut NV

NV

Tindal Wine Merchants

Champagne under €60

Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brut NV

NV

Liberty Wines Ltd.

Non-Alcoholic Red Under €15

Zero-Point-Five Pinot Noir

NV

Mackenway Wines

Non-Alcoholic White Under €15

Leitz Eins-Zwei-Zero Riesling

NV

Mackenway Wines

Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Under €15

Faber Sparkling Rosé

NV

Ampersand Wines

White Wine of the Year 2023-2024

Gabel Riesling Trocken Organic

2022

Febvre Wines

Wine of the Year 2023-2024

Portia Crianza Tempranillo

2019

Richmond Marketing

Gold Medals for Santa Rita Estates

WINES from the Santa Rita Estates portfolio picked up no fewer than three awards, with Santa Rita Estate Reserve Semillon named Best New World White Under €12, Carmen Premier 1850 Cabernet Sauvignon winning the Best New World Red Under €12 and Cabernario No.8 Cabernet Sauvignon being named Best New World Red Under €20.

Shelly O'Neill, Richmond Marketing, with the Wine of the Year Award for Portia Crianza Tempranillo

Eoin McConville, Febvre Wines, pictured with the White Wine of the Year Award for Gabel Riesling Trocken Organic.

Two of the winning wines: Carmen Premier 1850 Cabernet Sauvignon (Best New World Red Under €12) and Cabernario No.8 Cabernet Sauvignon (Best New World Red Under €20).

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ECR Ireland Conference & Shopper Awards

Rewarding excellence in shopper engagement The recent ECR Ireland Conference and Shopper Awards saw some of the most successful FMCG campaigns of the last year recognised for their effectiveness, as they highlighted the very real benefits for the brands involved.

THE 2023 ECR Shopper Conference & Awards took place in the Guinness Storehouse on Thursday, October 5, and the event featured a host of world class projects from the FMCG sector, as well as an exceptional array of speakers to share their insights about the latest developments in marketing trends and technology.

There were revealing economic insights from Danny McCoy, CEO of Ibec, and a total focus on the shopper from Edel Russell, Insight & Innovation Director, Musgrave, and Toby Desforges, engage - Integrated Brand and Retail Strategy and Capability Building.

The Awards saw a host of nominees battle it out across three categories: Shopper Award, Digital Award and Category Management Award.

“The standard of presentations & collaborative projects surpassed all expectations and highlighted extraordinary expertise and innovation in the retail and FMCG sector all throughout the day, leading to extremely close voting,” revealed Declan Carolan, Director, ECR Ireland.

Shopper Awards nominees The Shopper Award was hotly contested, with a number of high profile campaigns vying for the overall award.

The Bird’s Eye ‘Add a Little Magic to Mealtime’ campaign was nominated and Brand Manager, Rachael Madill, explained how the campaign came together: “During Covid we saw a big uplift in a category that had been struggling and we wanted to capitalise on that by targeting a younger, mainly professional / pre-family consumer in order to drive sales.”

She explained how Birds Eye “used a fully integrated approach with TV, social, influencer, podcast and in-store activity, all designed to put our messaging in front of the right audience at the right time. We enjoyed extremely strong results, with 137% uplift in penetration and a remarkable 79% uplift in retail sales value and year-on-year growth of over 12%. Our top tip is to keep things simple and monitor the impact of everything you do on an ongoing basis.”

Britvic and advertising agency Oliver Ireland were nominated for their work on the ‘Any Time is MiWadi Time’ campaign. Ciara

ECR Ireland Director Declan Carolan addresses attendees.

Michelle Brennan, Group Account Director, Goosebump, presents the overall Shopper Award to Lesley Pregnall, Sales & Marketing Specialist, Molson Coors.

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ECR Ireland Conference & Shopper Awards Farrington, Britvic’s Shopper Marketing Manager, and Amber Torpey, Assistant Brand Manager, explained how they achieved some very impressive results. “As the leading squash brand in Ireland, we sought to grow the category in order to grow our own brand and we did so by targeting occasion uses for MiWadi,” Ciara noted. “By increasing the number of use occasions for MiWadi, we knew we could grow the category and the brand.”

Amber explained how Britvic used “the ‘any time’ proposition and strong messaging through TV, radio, social and influencers to connect with our audience and present the idea that MiWadi can be consumed at any time and at any age. By using this occasion proposition, we were able to drive a 6% increase in sales value by increasing the number of consumption occasions for our brand. Our top tip is to always remember to link back to your core messaging and the occasions that you want your customers to consider for your product.”

O’Donnell Crisps and Oliver Ireland were nominated for the ‘Taste Above All Else’ campaign to support the premium crisp brand. Lee Douglas, Creative Director, Oliver Ireland, and Karen Hurley, Marketing Manager for O’Donnells with Tayto Snacks, presented their project. “We used an always-on comms plan employing TV, VoD, OOH advertising and social in order to connect our premium proposition with our audience,” Karen revealed. “We brought the campaign in-store as well, with colourful and highly visible take-overs that were able to deliver us an 11% increase in sales value, an 8% increase in sales volume and 7% increase in market share over the course of the campaign.” O’Donnells top tip is to keep your product’s USP central to your campaign and messaging across all platforms.

The Denny ‘Win on the Double’ campaign was also nominated in the Shopper Awards and Shauna Moran, Brand Manager, Pilgrim’s Food Masters, explained how they “used a very traditional tactic of an on-pack offering where consumers could win with Denny purchases. We employed a 360̊ campaign featuring OOH advertising, a Late Late Show appearance, radio partnerships, online and social activities to deliver a 4% increase in penetration and to place Denny as the number one brand for awareness and consideration in the category.” Shauna revealed their top tip as: “always keep your shopper and their needs at the heart of your campaign.”

Britvic and marketing company Dunnhumby were nominated for their Retail Media & Modern shops collaboration. Claire Mulhall, Senior Campaign Manager at Dunnhumby, and Ciara Farrington, Shopper Marketing Manager at Britvic, provided details of the collaboration. According to Claire, Dunnhumby “wanted to work with Britvic to invigorate the retail space with digital advertising displays to bring movement, colour and excitement in-store and maximise the impact of the of products on shelves.”

The resulting campaign featured Pepsi, 7UP and Club brands on digital screens in-store “to create an extremely impactful experience for customers when shopping in-store,” Ciara revealed. “By choosing to test this in seven new stores, we were able to determine that these digital tools delivered a 16% sale uplift in

The Tesco & Unilever partnership on the Persil Sustainable Packaging and Cold Wash campaign took home the Digital Award.

Pictured are: Carla Mooney, Shopper Marketing Manager, Unilever; Eoghan Phelan, Managing Director, V360; and Ciarán Dorney, Senior Buying Manager, Tesco Ireland.

Karl O’Rourke, Category Manager, Heineken Ireland, accepts the Category Management Award from Colm Rooney, Country Manager, Shopper Intelligence.

Toby Desforges, Engage, addresses the ECR Ireland Conference.

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ECR Ireland Conference & Shopper Awards

Members of the ECR Conference Organising Group: Ann Marie Kelly, Valeo Foods; Eoghan Phelan, V360; Ruth Hanjin, Heineken Ireland; Declan Carolan, ECR Ireland; Dee Cunniam, Britvic Ireland; and Colm Rooney, Shopper Intelligence.

Tesco shops featuring the displays and brought 26,000 new buyers to the brand across just seven outlets.”

Britvic and Dunnhumby’s top tip was “to create a strong occasionbased proposition for your campaign and communicate that in the strongest possible way in-store.”

Shopper Award winner Molson Coors won the overall award in the Shopper category on the day for their Madrí Excepcional launch.

Lesley Pregnall, Sales & Marketing Specialist, presented the details of the through-the-line campaign: “With this launch, we wanted to offer a new beer to the very competitive Irish market and grow at scale to build a strong omni-channel brand identity for the beer in the Irish market.”

According to Lesley, Molson Coors “used all the tools we could in order to create awareness of the product and our identity, from high level sponsorships such as a sponsorship of the Irish Rugby team in the 2023 World Cup through to more intimate events such as live music, street food events, colourful murals, aisle take-overs in-store, and we enjoyed tremendous results.”

The campaign was certainly effective, as Lesley revealed: “We saw a 54% uplift of sales in Tesco, with a 122% uplift year-on-year and we have become the fifth most popular world beer in just 18 months; we were delighted with the results of the launch. Our top tip for success is to make sure get the collaboration right with all your relevant partners.

By doing that, you can magnify the results of all your hard work and make sure your launch is as successful as it can be.”

From Molson Coors are Glen Murphy, Customer Business Manager; Lesley Pregnall, Sales & Marketing Specialist; and Stuart MacDougall, Customer Marketing Executive.

Digital Award nominees The Digital Award was another tight call, with two top campaigns fighting it out for the overall accolade.

Birds Eye were nominated for their Goodfellas Ready Meals launch and Julie Rowan from Birds Eye explained how they approached the launch campaign: “We used a three-pronged approach featuring social,

partnerships and retail collaboration and we created over 4.5 million impressions on YouTube, 5.4 million impressions on TikTok and 8.4 million impressions on Meta platforms to drive awareness of our Ready Meals launch.

This all resulted in an extremely strong launch for a new product in a very competitive category.”

Julie’s top tip was simple: “Collaboration,

From Birds Eye Ireland: Scott Dunne, Rachael Madill, Rebecca Drew, Julie Rowan and Abigail Kuyebi.

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ECR Ireland Conference & Shopper Awards

Aisling Twomey, Marketing Manager, Green Isle Foods; Helen Kenny, Innovation & Portfolio Manager, Green Isle Foods; Rosanne Aylward, Head of Commercial, Dunnhumby; and Ger Foley, Head of Client Services, Dunnhumby. collaboration, collaboration; make sure to find strong partners to work with and work closely with them in order that everyone involved can add the most value to your efforts.”

The winner of the Digital Award was the Tesco & Unilever partnership on the Persil Sustainable Packaging and Cold Wash campaign. Ciarán Dorney, Senior Buying Manager, Tesco Ireland, and Carla Mooney, Shopper Marketing Manager, Unilever, explained how the campaign was a real partnership. “We used data and insights from Dunhumby, Unilever and Tesco to understand how to create and deliver a campaign that leveraged online, email and social, all tied to strong in-store activations to bring consumers on a journey that started in the digital sphere and brought them in-store to conversion,” Ciarán explained.

Carla explained how Unilever were “delighted by the strength of the results we recorded. We achieved over nine million impressions across all platforms, which translated into a +27% like-for-like sales volume and a +42% like-for-like sales value.

We were delighted with the uplift we saw in Persil product purchases and it was great to see such a strong return from all our hard work.”

Carla’s top tip was to always make sure to fully integrate all aspects of your campaign, explaining how “only then will you be able to create a journey for your customers that brings them to a sale conversion for your products”.

Category Management Award The Category Management Award saw a host of big names up for selection, and the key take-away from all the nominees was the importance of collaboration and engagement.

Unilever and Tesco Ireland were

Pictured are Sam Watkins, Category Director, Tesco Ireland; Ger Foley, Head of Client Services, Dunnhumby; Ciarán Dorney, Senior Buying Manager, Tesco Ireland, and Michael Donohoe, Senior Buying Manager, Tesco Ireland.

nominated in the Category Management category for their in-store Beauty Bay fixtures project. Niamh Moran, Shopper Marketing Manager at Unilever, explained how the pandemic “hit health & beauty very hard as it really changed how people were living. We wanted to reinvigorate the category in-store with exciting and impactful one-, two- and three-bay variants to introduce excitement and get people back into the aisle.”

Ciaran Dorney, Tesco Ireland’s Senior Buying Manager, revealed how Tesco “were very keen to work with Unilever to grow a category that had been suffering and we worked very closely together to introduce these new bays into key stores, which delivered very strong sales growth across every test store.”

Birds Eye were nominated for their efforts to reinvigorate a brand that had been “impacted quite severely by inflation”, according to Birds Eye’s Category and Insights Manager, Rebecca Drew, who admitted that the brand had been losing market share due to soaring inflation levels: “To mitigate this, we looked to reduce costs and work closely with retail partners to help our brands reassert themselves.”

According to Scott Dunne, Revenue Growth Manager, Birds Eye, “Over the course of the project we managed to address a variety of cost issues in the supply chain and we managed to get our average price down by 9%, which created a +2.8% increase in sales value, which was a huge win for us.”

V3600 and PepsiCo were nominated for their ‘Glocal’ category growth strategy.

According to Ciaran McAlrey, Category & Insights Manager, PepsiCo, “Like other multinationals, we have a huge volume of data collected globally. While looking to grow Crisps, Snacks and Nuts in Ireland, we looked to synthesis global data with a

deep dive into the local market to see how Irish consumers were interacting with our products and what we could to boost sales.”

Robert Flavin, Director of Strategic Planning at V360, said, “We were able to provide PepsiCo with very detailed local insights that could help the brand tailor its actions to precisely fit the Irish consumer and deliver growth in the local market that was based on very local insights.”

Category Management winner The winners of the Category Management Award were Heineken Ireland for their Shopper Occasions & Pack Architecture project. Category Manager Karl O’Rourke explains why and how the project was executed: “Price and value have been very strong purchase motivators in the sector, but the category has been severely impacted by legislation, especially Minimum Unit Pricing. We had to completely reassess our approach to value and changing our packaging played a big role in this. We redesigned our packaging, including retiring the six-pack variant, which had been our most popular SKU, because we redesigned our packaging with occasion usage at the forefront of our minds.”

Karl admits that Heineken Ireland “had expected to see up to a 15% decline in sales after the introduction of Minimum Unit Pricing here, but as a result of this project, our sales saw no fall, which was a huge success for us.”

Unsurprisingly, Kark’s top tip was to “get comfortable making uncomfortable decisions because sometimes you have to take big risks to get big rewards.”

As with every year, the ECR Shopper Awards & Conference was a day filled with fantastic examples of best practice in the FMCG sector and fascinating insights for attendees to digest on the day and to use to inform future projects.

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Drinks News Edward Dillon to expand into Northern Ireland LEADING distributor of premium spirit and wine brands in the Republic of Ireland, Edward Dillon, have announced plans to take over the distribution of the Moët Hennessy portfolio in Northern Ireland from Dillon Bass from January 1, 2024. “At Edward Dillon, we’ve been lucky to represent Moët Hennessy’s exceptional brands in the Republic of Ireland,” noted Andy O’Hara, Edward Dillon CEO. “Our talented and dedicated team has built market share by creating award-winning activations, innovative launches and much more for both established brands and those new to the portfolio.

We would like to thank and congratulate Dillon Bass for their time and commitment representing Moët Hennessy in Northern Ireland and we wish Greg Elliott and his team the best of luck and every success for the future.”

Liquid Death lands in Ireland

LIQUID Death, one of the fastest growing non-alcoholic drink brands of all time, has arrived in Ireland, having securing listings with SuperValu, Centra and Daybreak stores across the country.

Liquid Death is a US drinks brand that has amassed a huge cult following on both sides of the Atlantic, thanks to its distinct water-ina-beer-can packaging, viral video content and outrageous celebrity partnerships, including their collaboration with Blink182's Travis Barker. A mixture of four 500ml single-can SKUs will be sold across the Irish stores: Liquid Death Mountain Water and Sparkling Water will launch at an introductory price of €2 (RRP: €2.29/500ml), while Mango Chainsaw and Severed Lime will be on offer at €2.50 (RRP: €2.89/500ml) Mike Cessario, co-founder & CEO at Liquid Death, said that they are “thrilled to be launching in Ireland and rolling out with Musgrave Group”.

Findlater celebrate 200th anniversary ON September 26, Findlater & Co celebrated their 200th anniversary with a spectacular event in Dublin’s RDS, with 200 guests from a mix of colleagues, customers, suppliers and media. The theme of the night was ‘The Past and The Future’ and guests were encouraged to wear something with a ‘Vintage Twist’. The event centred around a purpose-built tasting area, where 100 wines were available to taste from the current portfolio. “Wine had to be at the centre of the party, and it certainly was,” explained Marketing Director, Richard Moriarty (pictured with the Findlater & Co team). “We handpicked wines from our portfolio that truly showcased what we are all about; world-famous wines that are revered across the globe to new innovations around packaging and taste.”

Amber Beverage Group to invest €35m in new Irish whiskey distillery

AMBER Beverage Group (ABG) have signalled their intention to become one of the major global producers of Irish whiskey by investing up to €35 million in the construction of one of the largest distilleries in the category.

Subject to planning approval, the new Walsh Whiskey Distillery at Dunleckney will be located on a historic 18th century site by the banks of the River Barrow in County Carlow. “This is ABG’s second major investment in the fast-growing Irish whiskey category following our acquisition of Walsh Whiskey and its super-premium Irish whiskey brands, Writers’ Tears and The Irishman, in 2021,” noted Jekaterina Stuge, CEO Of Amber Beverage Group. “In keeping with our growth ambitions as a rapidly growing global spirits company, once commissioned our distillery will enable ABG to become one of the major global producers of Irish whiskey and to leverage the exceptional growth the category is predicted to continue to experience for the foreseeable future.”

Appointment at Drinksology Kirker Greer RAPIDLY growing global premium drinks pioneer, Drinksology Kirker Greer (DKG), have appointed Ali Pickering as their new Chief Marketing Officer, completing their Executive Team line-up. Ali brings over two decades of invaluable marketing experience to the DKG team; as Marketing Director at Molson Coors, she amassed a wealth of strategic and brand-building expertise, working with some of the most iconic beer and cider brands across more than 50 markets worldwide. “I am truly excited to join the DKG family as the Chief Marketing Officer,” noted Ali. “DKG has assembled an Executive Team comprising industry experts, each bringing their unique talents to the table. Together with Steven Pattison, Richard Ryan, Donal McAteer, and Ryan McFarland, we are well-poised to drive DKG's strategic direction and growth strategy.”

If you are buying a security service your provider must be licensed by the PSA even if their primary business is not security.

Electricians, Property & Facilities Management Companies, and others providing security services must be licensed.

Using unlicensed providers puts your business at risk as you could: •Face Prosecution •Invalidate your insurance cover •Compromise the safety of your staff and customers To ensure that your security provider is licensed with the PSA visit www.psa-gov.ie

68|Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Tobacco Products

Illicit trade impacting on legal tobacco market A new survey confirms Revenue findings that a third of tobacco products in this country are illegal or non-Irish Duty Paid.

ONE third of Irish smokers are prepared to purchase illegal tobacco, according to a new poll commissioned by Retailers Against Smuggling. The representative body’s poll findings highlight the impact of Ireland’s record levels of illicit trade.

This poll confirms Revenue’s findings (Illegal Tobacco Products Research Survey) that 30% of tobacco products consumed in Ireland are either illegal or Non-Irish Duty Paid. This showed a dramatic rise of 43% compared to 2021, and represented a loss to the Exchequer of €384 million last year.

The poll, carried out by Ireland Thinks from September 21-25, looked to gauge people’s willingness to purchase illegal tobacco. The poll also sought to understand what the appetite was among the panel surveyed to report those selling illegal tobacco to the relevant authorities.

• •

•

•

The main findings of the poll include: 33% of smokers would purchase illegal tobacco; 50% of those aged 18-34 would purchase illegal tobacco – the highest among all of the age cohorts; Only 13% of those aged 65+ would do the same – the lowest among all of the age cohorts; 70% of smokers said they would not report illegal tobacco sellers if they encountered them. This figure was highest among students, with 94% saying they wouldn’t report illegal tobacco sellers, and it was also high among those in full time employment at 79%. Only 48% of retirees said they wouldn’t report illegal tobacco sellers.

Illegal tobacco sales have soared over the past year, with Retailers Against Smuggling (RAS) describing the issue as a chronic challenge, as they argue that Ireland’s streets are awash with non-Irish

duty paid tobacco thanks to increases in international travel and increased smuggling. They pointed to major seizures of illegal cigarettes this year as indicating the size of the illegal tobacco market in Ireland, with upwards of 18 million cigarettes seized by Revenue at Dublin Port in May and June of this year.

Under the Public Health Bill, the new licensing system will require a retailer who wishes to sell tobacco products or nicotine inhaling products to apply for an annual licence for each outlet with a yet unspecified fee, instead of a once-off fee of €50 in the current registration system. This new system will add further unnecessary administrative burden and cost on retailers.

RAS is calling for at least 30% of the funds collected from the licence fee to be ringfenced for initiatives that will meaningfully deal with the growth of smuggling activities in the country.

Currently, Revenue has 23 detector dog teams and three mobile x-ray scanners.

With more than 1.2 million freight vehicles and trailers passing through the three main Irish ports last year, Retailers Against Smuggling describe Revenue’s challenge as “a mammoth task” to detect contraband being smuggled into the country and are calling for meaningful resources to be allocated to help them.

“It’s no surprise that the illegal cigarette trade has grown in recent years,

following a cost-of-living crisis and lack of enforcement at our borders,” argued Benny Gilsenan, National Spokesperson for Retailers Against Smuggling. “With one of the highest prices for tobacco in Europe, you can see why Ireland has become a destination for criminals to sell tobacco.

This new licence fee will put a strain on already squeezed retailers. Government must use at least a third of this money to help protect us against the black market and support Revenue with more scanners and personnel at entry points across the country.”

Amber Leaf Amber Leaf have been helping existing adult smokers to craft their perfect moment by adding value and convenience through innovation in recent years. The addition of ‘ZipSeal’ technology to all Amber Leaf 30g products in 2021 ensures that lasting freshness is sealed into every pouch.

In 2022, Amber Leaf 30g pouches upgraded their existing format to include filters, meaning that each pouch now comes equipped with rolling papers, filters and 30g of tobacco, in one simple, complete ‘3-in-1’ kit.

In addition to these upgrades, the brand continues to provide the same high-quality, distinctive Amber Leaf taste in every pouch, ensuring they retain the number one RYO brand status in Ireland year-on-year

DISCOVER THE BRANDS Place your order today at B2B.PJCarroll.ie Scan the QR code to order online.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PJ CARROLL REPRESENTATIVE OR CALL 1800 604 500 Visit b2b.pjcarroll.ie to order these products. It's an offence to sell tobacco to person under 18 years old age.

For tobacco trade use only. Not to be left within sight of consumers.

Branded packs are for illustrative purposes only. All packs sold will be in plain packaging.

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Tobacco Products

Innovation has helped Amber Leaf to remain Ireland’s number one RYO brand.

(Ireland’s number one RYO brand. Correct at time of printing, NielsenIQ ROI extended Scantrack, 71.1% RYO SOM, YTD October 10, 2023).

Silk Cut Not all Tobacco brands are cut from the same cloth; that’s why Silk Cut is Ireland’s number one cigarette brand (Source: NielsenIQ ROI extended Scantrack, 20.6% RMC SOM, YTD October 10, 2023).

Silk Cut continues to be defined by excellence; producing consistent, highquality products to give valued existing Irish adult smokers the smoothest and most sophisticated experience possible, allowing them to enjoy their moments to the fullest.

It’s exactly this premium quality that has led the brand to its number one accolade, with over 20% share of the premium cigarette market in Ireland (Source: NielsenIQ ROI extended Scantrack, 20.6% RMC SOM, YTD October 10, 2023).

Silk Cut is available in Purple, Blue and Silver, in both King Size & 100s formats with variety of box formats including 20s and 26s. As well as this, Silk Cut is also

Benson & Hedges are celebrating 150 years of distinctive, uncompromising quality this year, offering a range of amazing prizes through the year. available in Silk Cut Choice Green & Silk Cut Choice Super Line Green and Silk Cut Red King Size 20s.

Silk Cut’s extensive range of products continues to grow with the addition of Silk Cut 33s last year, offering existing adult smokers an even larger format with 33 sticks, filled with the same quality Silk Cut cigarettes that the brand has become renowned for.

Stay a cut above the rest, stock up on Ireland’s number one cigarette brand.

offering valued trade members the chance to win amazing prizes throughout the year, as a thank you for their continued support that has helped to make Benson & Hedges the iconic brand that it is today.

There’s still plenty more to come from Benson & Hedges in 2023, with an exciting update just around the corner. Keep your eyes peeled for a festive promotion coming very soon to wrap up the year of celebrations. Look out for more to come in 2023, and stock up today!

Benson & Hedges This year marks a momentous milestone for Benson & Hedges, who are celebrating 150 years of distinctive, uncompromising quality.

Benson & Hedges’ illustrious journey in the Irish market represents the brand’s genuine heritage with an international reputation for leading the way, achieving and retaining the accolade of Ireland’s number one SKU since 1990 (Source: NielsenIQ ROI extended Scantrack, 15.5% RMC SOM, YTD October 10, 2023).

To celebrate the occasion, the brand is

Mayfair When existing adult smokers want value and quality combined, they know they can rely on Ireland’s number one value cigarette brand to deliver (Source: NielsenIQ ROI extended Scantrack, 15.8% RMC SOM, YTD October 10, 2023).

The brand’s ever-growing portfolio offers variation and value for all types of existing adult smokers; available in King Size and Superkings, Big Box and Giga-Box formats, as well as Sky Blue and Sea Green; Mayfair truly do have all bases covered.

This year alone, Mayfair launched their new Giga-Box format, containing a remarkable 40 sticks of Mayfair Original King Size cigarettes. The rise of bigger box formats has become a popular choice amongst existing adult smokers in recent years (Source: NielsenIQ ROI extended Scantrack, 40.0% Value RMC SOS, YTD October 10, 2023), and the latest addition to Mayfair’s portfolio aims to deliver even more convenience.

The innovative Giga-Box offering means that existing adult smokers now have a format that provides even better value without compromise (versus 2 x 20 Mayfair Original King Size 20 Packs); with each stick containing the same affordable quality tobacco that continues to make Mayfair

Silk Cut 33s offer existing adult smokers an even larger format, filled with the same quality Silk Cut cigarettes that the brand has become renowned for.

STILL IRELAND’S BEST VALUE BRAND IRELAND’S CHEAPEST CIGARETTE

NEW JPS BLUE 30s

s KS

JPS Blue 30

€21.30 30

* FOR

JPS Gold KS

JPS Gold 100

€14.00* 20

For Tobacco Retailers Only. Not to be placed in view of the public.

Pack for illustrative purposes only. 18+. www.showmeid.ie www.johnplayer-ignite.ie *Price correct at time of going to print, November 2023.

FOR

s KS

72|Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Tobacco Products

Mayfair from JTI Ireland; a modern expression of affordable quality across an ever-growing portfolio.

Riverstone, plus accessories brands Rizla and Blas, their portfolio is varied in terms of blends, formats and value offerings, ensuring choice across the full range.

However, the jewel in the John Player crown and their fastest growing brand family is JPS. Since 1970, JPS has provided an expansive range of blends and pack sizes for all adult smokers. Since its relaunch in 2015, coupled with continuous product innovation, the brand has gone from strength to strength with current market share sitting at 13.17% (Source: Imperial Brands internal data, September 2023).

Each JPS product is unique in terms of blend and feature technology. From the Firm Filter offering on full flavour Blue & Red, the fresh blend of Cool Green to the smooth blend of Gold, JPS caters for the many differing tastes of adult smokers. JPS Gold KS and 100s are still the best-priced cigarettes on the market, retailing at €14

Ireland’s number one value brand.

Stock up today on Mayfair, the value hero and Ireland’s number one cigarette brand in the value segment.

John Player Ireland Imperial Brands John Player Ireland are proud to provide adult smokers with both quality and value when it comes to their extensive range of cigarettes, Roll Your Own tobacco products and accessories.

Whether it be premium or value brands, American or Virginia blend, big box, compact or combi formats, John Player have a product to meet the continually evolving preferences of Irish adult smokers.

From John Player Blue, a premium Irish brand with over 45 years in the market, to Superkings, a distinctive 100s format cigarette, L&B and Players Navy Cut to RYO brands such as Golden Virginia, Drum and

Riverstone Tobacco is a unique value offering in the Irish market, namely due to its unique cutting process, which produces an expandable tobacco and in turn creates more rolling potential. for 20 sticks.

JPS internal consumer research shows that both quality and value remain top priorities when it comes to purchasing tobacco products. JPS’ Big Box range delivers on quality, convenience & value all in one. JPS Blue 30s KS was launched in September and is proving popular, due

The JPS brand has provided an expansive range of blends and pack sizes for all adult smokers since 1970.

to its convenience for consumers and its competitive price point, retailing at €21.30.

Similarly, Riverstone Tobacco is a unique value offering in the Irish market, namely due to its unique cutting process, which produces an expandable tobacco and in turn creates more rolling potential. Riverstone 30g pack is competitively priced, retailing at €21, including papers and tips (prices correct at time of print, November 2023).

By stocking a full range of Imperial Brands John Player tobacco products & accessories, you can meet the varied needs of your value-seeking adult smokers.

For further detail or to stock up on any John Player’s brands, please visit www.johnplayer-ignite.ie, contact your local sales representative or call (01) 2434900.

BAT Ireland Pall Mall is one of BAT’s most recognisable brands globally and in Ireland, PJ Carroll (BAT Ireland) are proud to include Pall Mall as part of their tobacco offering. They continuously review their offering, update existing products and introduce new solutions to maintain the highest quality and tailor their products to their consumers’ needs.

Pall Mall is emblematic of this mission, and they have innovated within Pall Mall is the range to deliver available in the best blend and a wide range packaging quality that of product their consumers have formats, come to know and trust from the Pall Mall tailored to their consumers’ name. The Pall Mall needs. product is available in a wide range of product formats, including King Size, Super Kings, bigger content packs, Full Flavour and NonFull Flavour.

At BAT, they take pride in their strong working relationships with Irish retailers, enabling them to deliver a high quality portfolio at an affordable price. There is no one size fits all for the Irish consumer, which is why they offer variety, value-for-money and an RRP that meets the needs of their diverse audience. Please contact your PJ Carroll/BAT Ireland representative if you have any questions about the range of Pall Mall products.

Food safety training.

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Scan the QR code to sign up for food safety training and get access to online resources

Learn more at safefoodbusiness.com

74|Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Payment Solutions

How every retailer can get payments right Delia Pedersoli, COO of MultiPay Global Solutions, advises retailers how new payment systems can help to bring cost savings for your business, while improving Customer Experience in-store.

THESE are turbulent times for Irish retailers. Despite a surge earlier in the year, the Credit Union Consumer Sentiment Index fell to its weakest level in six months this September, with higher interest rates and rising energy costs dampening the mood of Irish consumers. Bank of Ireland also reported that September spending dropped by 8% compared to August, with social spending down 16% and supermarkets down by 10%. Now, more than ever, retailers need to contemplate where efficiencies can be made, and how they can encourage consumers to spend.

Price cutting only goes so far. Retailers must examine where true operational efficiencies can be made, especially where the savings can be passed on to customers.

Payments are a good place to start. Done right, new payment systems, which both enable retailers to make savings and simultaneously enhance the customer experience (CX), can go a long way to encouraging consumers back through the doors time and time again.

Use data to put customers first Any new retail initiative should have CX at its heart. In fact, customers demand it.

Leading customer-relationship management company Salesforce indicates that 66% of customers expect companies to understand their unique needs and expectations. This is the same with payments too.

MultiPay Global Solutions are a payments technology company that enables large merchants to accept any payment, through any channel, anywhere.

To do this, retailers must focus on gathering insights from their payments data to create a full picture of their customers’ payment habits. Working with the right partner, retailers can use this data to create a seamless experience by anticipating what shoppers will need at every step of their journey - whether it’s a growing preference amongst a certain set of customers for a certain payment type or tailoring the shopping experience through the offer of discounts and push notifications to drive further sales and revenue.

Furthermore, retailers should think carefully about what payment options

they offer consumers, and how adaptable their systems are towards accommodating changes in methods and expectations over time.

Importantly, to avoid frequent and costly upgrades, a long-term sustainable payment strategy should make provisions for the acceptance of new payment methods as they become available and more popular. For example, many payment terminals only process transactions via credit and debit cards and cannot handle increasingly popular alternative payment methods (APMs) such as cryptocurrency or Pay By Bank.

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Payment Solutions

Many multinationals are willing to accept cryptocurrencies due to their low or zero-cost transaction fees, while the blockchain technology behind cryptocurrencies also offers enhanced transparency and security for cross-border transactions.

Not only is it essential that retailers work with payment partners that help arm them with the insights needed to understand their customers, but ones that can also deploy future-proofing technologies to accept the latest payment types.

Getting in front of alternative payment methods According to the Central Bank of Ireland, contactless payment methods accounted for 84% of total card payments at physical point-of-sale systems in the first half of 2023. Interestingly, mobile wallet payments – those made using mobile apps such as PayPal and Apple Pay – made up almost a third of these.

This increasing preference for mobile wallet payments indicates a growing appetite for APMs - non-cash payment methods excluding traditional credit or debit cards. The proliferation of smartphones and technologies like NFC, QR codes and biometrics has spurred enormous APM innovation in recent years.

Two stand out as particularly advantageous for consumers and businesses alike: • Cryptocurrencies – already embedded in popular imagination, the rise of stable coins – cryptocurrencies which have their price pegged to a specific fiat currency such as the euro or dollar – which have far lower volatility is fuelling renewed interest in their use by both retailers and shoppers. Many multinationals such as Microsoft, Tesla and Starbucks have disclosed their willingness to accept cryptocurrencies.

One reason is the very low or zero cost transaction fees. For growing international brands, the blockchain

About the author: DELIA Pedersoli is Chief Operating Officer of MultiPay Global Solutions.

An enthusiastic and outstanding entrepreneur, she has been involved in a number of successful Fintech startups in the card payments industry.

Delia started her career in the IT sector, having completed her MBA at Henley Management College and worked for blue-chip companies including IBM, Xerox and Canon. After working for Barclaycard, Delia was cofounder of EPS, the first company in the world to be P2PE certified, and in 2021 launched MultiPay Global Solutions, a payments technology company that enables large merchants to accept any payment, through any channel, anywhere.

technology behind cryptocurrencies also offers enhanced transparency and security for cross-border transactions.

•

Pay By Bank - where consumers have the option to pay for items by scanning a QR code and opening their mobile banking app to complete a transaction - is growing in appeal to consumers thanks to its simplicity.

By removing the use of credit and debit cards from the transaction, it’s also more convenient and costeffective for businesses too as there are zero interchange and scheme fees – meaning substantial savings on every transaction. Furthermore, there’s no need to clutter payment devices with third-party apps as no additional downloads are required for Pay by Bank to work. App-based, Pay

By Bank can also easily be linked to loyalty schemes and tailored offers to encourage shoppers to make repeat purchases.

Facing up to payment challenges for panEuropean retailers It’s not just at home that Irish retailers need to focus. Many also successfully operate overseas – especially in continental Europe and vice-versa. From navigating the acceptance of different currencies, payment preferences and acquirers in each region, an international network of stores adds additional challenges when it comes to payments.

Managing transactions across multiple countries can be particularly complex. Each region has its preferred acquirers, and directing payments to the most suitable ones is crucial for efficient processing.

Furthermore, retailers must cater to the

payment preferences of customers, as well as local debit and credit card schemes, within each country they operate.

New forms of technology can help bridge operations in different regions and drive down expenditure whilst maintaining, or even improving, CX. For example, the best acquiring routing technologies can intelligently route transactions to the optimal acquirers based on various factors such as transaction type, currency and geographic location. In addition, by working with a payments provider using an API that can act as a single point of integration between any payment method and any acquirer, retailers can seamlessly accept local debit cards within each new market they enter, ensuring frictionless payment experiences.

Navigating the current economic climate is no easy task for any retailer, whether operating locally, nationally or internationally. However, rethinking payments is essential to help make efficiencies and savings. Not only this, but by deploying future-proofing technology and applying learnings about their customers from their insights and data, retailers can boost CX to help encourage repeat spending and loyalty hopefully far into the future.

76|Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Employment Law

AI in the workplace: what retail employers need to know

Linda Hynes, Employment Partner at Lewis Silkin Ireland, looks at the use of AI and highlights the benefits and challenges for retail employers in deploying AI tools in the workplace and managing employee use of AI tools.

ARTIFICIAL Intelligence (AI) is one of the most talked about topics in recent months, with Chat GPT and its kind grabbing the headlines. In a previous article in Retail News, Matthew Forde, Partner at Lewis Silkin, examined the opportunities and risks for retailers and consumers in the use of generative AI in the retail industry. In this article, Linda Hynes, Employment Partner at Lewis Silkin Ireland, looks at the use of AI in the workplace context, highlighting the benefits and challenges for retail employers in deploying AI tools in the workplace and managing employee use of AI tools.

In the fast-paced landscape of the modern workplace, a silent, yet revolutionary, transformation is underway, and it goes by the name of Artificial Intelligence. As we step further into the 21st century, AI is not just a buzzword; it's a dynamic force reshaping the way we work, collaborate and innovate. From streamlining operations to augmenting human capabilities, AI is leaving an indelible mark on the workforce of today and tomorrow. In this article, we delve into the captivating world of AI in the workplace, exploring its profound implications, remarkable applications and the opportunities and challenges it presents for individuals and organisations alike.

We asked Chat GPT to write us an introduction to this article and the above

paragraph was what was generated. Not bad, and a good example of how AI could be used in the workplace. Need help writing sales materials, content for customer newsletters, aid with the best way to approach an in-store offer or competition?

AI can help you and it can help you quickly.

A recent OECD survey of employers and workers in the manufacturing and finance sectors of seven countries, one of which was Ireland, provides an interesting insight into the impact that AI is already having on the workplace.

The findings suggest that both workers and their employers are generally very positive about the impact of AI on performance and working conditions.

However, there are also concerns, including the potential for job losses as roles are gradually replaced by AI. The survey found that: • •

• •

•

Most AI users report that it assists with decision making; Workers are overwhelmingly positive about the use of AI to support decision making; Workers who use AI are generally positive about its impact on their skills; Of the seven countries surveyed, AI users in Ireland and the US are most likely to say that their company has provided or funded training; Consultation with workers’

•

•

•

•

representatives appears most prevalent in the UK, Ireland and Germany; A quarter of employers have adopted AI or engage in AI-related data collection in the workplace; AI-related data collection appeared to be most prevalent in the UK and Ireland; Workers express worries about AI-related data collection, increased pressure to perform and concerns regarding their privacy; Use of AI to assess worker performance, to decide what training workers should receive and to monitor worker well-being in the interests of tackling workplace stress gathered less opposition, although more than one in five still supported a ban on AI use in the workplace.

What is AI and how might it be used in the workplace?

McKinsey describes AI as “a machine’s ability to perform the cognitive functions we usually associate with human minds”.

AI learns and changes its behaviour in response to what it has learned, meaning it is constantly evolving and improving.

Automated decision-making tools don’t require any human intervention. The technology is developing at pace and regulators are struggling to keep up with

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Employment Law this advancement.

AI is already being deployed in the workplace with the use of customer service chatbots, HR analytic tools, customer and sales data analytic tools, workflow automation tools, recruitment and hiring decision tools, performance review tools, diversity monitoring tools and employee well-being monitoring, to name just a few.

Smart AI-powered robots are working alongside employees in stores, factories and warehouses.

How to prepare for AI use by employees According to a recent Think Business article, a Microsoft Irish Work Trends Index found that almost one fifth of Irish workers are already using AI tools to carry out their jobs, with 61% of those who currently don’t use AI to do their jobs confirming they were interested in doing so. So your employees may already be using it and you may not even realise it. People are using it to write their CVs, analyse data, prepare presentations and draft emails.

The key to successful AI use in the workplace starts with building employees’ trust in it. Educating employees about the technological changes and benefits of AI will help build a culture of positivity around it. Retail employers should take time to identify where AI can be utilised effectively in their business and where it is worth investing in to reduce any mundane or repetitive tasks, or tasks that tend to result in employee error.

It is important that retail employers themselves understand the AI technology and consider mechanisms for recording uses of AI and ensuring human oversight where necessary. They then need to prepare their employees, with AI training and upskilling, educating them on the benefits it can bring to their roles and the workplace generally.

Equality legislation. A claim was heard by the Workplace Relations Commission last year relating to whether a job applicant who received an automated rejection by email had been subject to racial discrimination. While the claim was not upheld based on the particular facts of the case, the Adjudicator noted that this type of claim is more than likely going to increase in the future. We are seeing similar cases from employees in the UK, involving the use of facial recognition software.

Where employees have concerns about AI-related decision making, it could form the basis for making a protected disclosure to their employer.

A major risk faced by employers in the use of AI tools is the potential for data protection breaches and difficulties with ensuring compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). It may not always be clear how a particular AI tool or algorithm processes employees’ personal data and this could create difficulties for employers in demonstrating compliance with the transparency and accountability provisions of the GDPR. Where the processing involves fully automated decision making or profiling pertaining to employees, this could create legal difficulties for an employer.

Retail employers will also have to be able to show a lawful basis for any personal data processing carried out by an AI tool and will need to undertake Data Protection Impact Assessments to assess any risks before implementation.

Employees must be given clear and easy-to-understand information about how their personal data, including sensitive personal data (such as health data), is being processed by their employers. This could be difficult where the technology carrying out that processing is complex and difficult to

understand or explain. Employee privacy notices will need to be reviewed and regularly updated to take account of new AI technologies being used in the workplace. There are also potential copyright infringement risks for employers where their employees may use copyright materials suggested by AI tools as part of their work.

Importance of AI training and awareness: managing the risks It is key that retail employers consider whether they will allow their employees to use AI tools in their daily work and for what purpose. Policies outlining acceptable use of AI need to be introduced. Employees using AI technology should understand what its purpose is and need to be trained on the risks associated with these tools, including the potential for bias and inaccuracies. Existing policies may already deal with some of the risks posed by the use of AI in the workplace, but acceptable usage policies, bring your own device policies, IT policies, recruitment policies and data protection policies will all need to be reviewed to ensure they are fit for purpose when

Potential risks for retail employers While the workplace opportunities are vast and exciting, there are significant risks when using AI in the workplace.

There is potential for bias in recruitment, performance and promotion decisions using AI which could lead to discrimination or unfair dismissal claims by employees. Facial recognition technology is known to have inherent biases that won’t take account of an employer’s obligations not to discriminate AI learns and changes its behaviour in response to what it has learned, meaning it is constantly under the Irish Employment evolving and improving.

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Employment Law

Irish workers and their employers are generally very positive about the impact of AI on performance and working conditions. considering AI use in the workplace.

In relation to recruitment, retail employers should be alive to the fact that many candidates will now use AI to prepare their CVs and applications. Employers may want to consider if they will adopt a policy of not accepting applications that have been prepared in this manner and make this clear in their recruitment processes.

What’s next?

Well, the sky is the limit for AI use in the workplace but at present, there are no rules or regulations that apply specifically to its use by employers in Ireland. In July 2021, the Government launched a National AI strategy, ‘AI – Here for Good’, to promote and support the development and adoption of AI in Irish business and society. The Data Protection Commissioner also recently highlighted in the media the need for increased focus on AI and the importance of complying with data protection obligations in its use.

Regulating AI is a key focus at EU level, with the proposed Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) currently under negotiation between the European Parliament and Council. This will significantly bolster regulation on the use of AI, with noncompliance subject to potentially substantial fines. The AI Act proposes a categorisation system which determines

the level of risk different AI systems could pose to fundamental rights and health and safety. Restrictions depend on which of the four risk tiers - unacceptable, high, limited and minimal - the technology is placed in.

Among the list of high risks uses are some recruitment and employment use cases. Examples of this might be a CV scanning tool or AI-driven performance management tools. Such uses would then be subject to a range of more detailed compliance requirements, including the need for: • • • •

a comprehensive risk management system; relevant, representative and accurate data to train and validate the system; transparency; human oversight.

This creates significant obligations for employers looking to use these tools in the workplace context.

It’s clear that retail employers will need to carefully consider their use of AI in the workplace on a number of different fronts. While this technology can enhance many aspects of the workplace, any employer looking to use AI, particularly for recruitment or performance management, should be aware of the risks associated with it, and the need to ensure that AI-

supported decisions are explainable, transparent and retain an appropriate level of human oversight.

Putting an AI policy in place and keeping it under regular review will be an integral part of the retailer’s employment toolkit for managing the risks posed by AI in the workplace, while also reaping the many benefits of the technology. One thing that is certain is that AI is coming to a store near you – soon.

About the author FOR further information on this topic, please contact Linda Hynes (Linda.

Hynes@lewissilkin.com) from Lewis Silkin. This article is for general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. Legal advice should be sought in any given set of circumstances.

Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie|79

Forecourt Focus: News Top Oil helping to ‘Fuel the Care’

Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin patient, four-year-old Izzy and her Mum Emma Hayward in Wicklow celebrating Top Oil’s Fuel the Care Programme and partnership with Children’s Health Foundation.

CHILDREN’S Health Foundation is delighted to celebrate Fuel the Care Day with Top Oil as part of a partnership launched in 2022 to support sick children and their families attending Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin, Temple Street, Tallaght and Connolly.

Top Oil’s Fuel the Care programme provides fuel gift vouchers to families to help lessen the financial burden of travelling to receive medical care for their children. Since launching last year, in collaboration with Children’s Health Foundation and the Children’s Health Ireland Medical Social Work Departments, Top Oil’s Fuel the Care initiative has bridged the distance between home and hospital for more than one family with a sick child each day in Ireland.

To further support this meaningful programme, Top Oil provides a Fuel the Care pump at select sites, where one cent from every litre purchased is donated to the Children’s Health Foundation “We are thankful for the generous support of our customers over the past year that has allowed us to help families in Ireland through Fuel the Care and our

partner hospitals,” said Top Oil Senior Manager, Clíona Ní Mhurchú. “Our team is proud of what was accomplished this past year to support families that need it the most.”

In addition to the fuel gift vouchers and to celebrate Fuel the Care, Top Oil also paid for all patient parking in Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin on October 16, with volunteers from the company onsite to let families know the parking fee was on Top Oil. “Top Oil have been so generous since the beginning of our partnership and their continuous donation of fuel vouchers has made a huge impact on the lives of families attending Children’s Health Ireland hospitals and urgent care centres,” noted Hugh Kane, Children’s Health Foundation Interim Chief Executive. “This has helped ease the pressure of travelling from all around the country to appointments with their sick children. Top Oil and their customers are helping provide these supports for sick children and their families.”

For more information, visit www.top.ie/fuelthecare.

Maxol in Wexford sells €1 million winning ticket CELEBRATIONS were underway recently in a local community on the outskirts of Wexford town after the National Lottery held a special event at a family run service station to celebrate the October 14 Lotto Plus 1 top prize win of €1 million.

Ireland’s latest National Lottery millionaire purchased their life-changing Lotto ticket at Maxol Killeens on Newline Road in Wexford Town. Tony and Sarah Butler who operate the store were overjoyed to find out that Maxol Killeens had sold the winning ticket

worth €1 million: “It’s just brilliant for absolutely everybody in the community. It’s especially sweet for us as the business has been a part of our family for over 30 years and to get a big lottery win for one of our customers is just the icing on the cake.”

Pictured celebrating selling the winning ticket for the Lotto Plus 1 draw on October 14 are staff from Maxol Killeens in Wexford Town: Catriona Walsh, Rachel Murphy, store owners Tony and Sarah Butler, Tina Flynn and Mary Quirke.

80|Retail News|November 2023|www.retailnews.ie

What’s New DANONE UNVEIL HIGH-PROTEIN RANGE

NEW LOOK FOR TAYTO POPCORN

DANONE Ireland have launched GetPro, a range of high-protein dairy snacks designed for people who want to get more out of their workouts, and enjoy a great tasting, healthy snack.

Containing 15-25 grams of protein per serve, GetPro’s range of delicious products includes high-protein yogurts, mousses, puddings, and drinks (both fresh and long life). Each product in the range is high in protein, with great tasting flavours and textures, the most delicious way to follow a workout and support consumers on their fitness journey. With no added sugars and low or 0% fat, GetPro is launching with a 360 marketing strategy spanning shopper marketing, OOH, social, digital, ecommerce, earned and influencer marketing, as well as strong retail activations.

TAYTO are delighted to announce some exciting new updates to the Tayto Popcorn range. Tayto Popcorn packs are sporting a new look on the shelves nationwide, as Tayto have revealed brand new packaging for the range.

This exciting re-launch also includes the release of a new sharing bag.

Now shoppers can enjoy Tayto Popcorn with their family and friends or savour it by themselves; Mr. Tayto won’t tell. Tayto Popcorn is available in a 30g pack, a 65g sharing pack and a 6x20g multipack. Find them in stores now.

LINDT LAUNCH LUXURY NEW BAR DISCOVER the sumptuous combination of crunchy and creamy with the nutty Lindt Nocciolatte Milk Hazelnut Bar. Since 1845, the Lindt Master Chocolatiers have combined their expertise with the highest quality ingredients from around the world to produce the finest chocolates. Delight in a truly unique taste and texture experience as you peel back the deep blue wrapping to reveal whole roasted hazelnuts enrobed in a layer of smooth Swiss milk chocolate and hazelnut filling, sealed with a final layer of velvety milk chocolate. The perfect on-the-go chocolate indulgence. Simple but elegant, chocolate and hazelnuts, what more could you ask for? The Lindt Nocciolatte bar is available in all supermarkets and retailers nationwide (RRP €1.50).

NEW SHAPE FOR LYONS TEA BAGS LYONS Tea is hitting store shelves with a complete brand refresh that includes a striking new logo, improved sustainable packaging, and, brace yourselves, square tea bags. The award-winning blend has been adapted to provide the best-ever flavour release, meaning that the rich, full-bodied flavour and much-loved Lyons essence, which has been putting the talk into tea since 1902, is still at its heart. The decision to move away from the pyramid to square tea bag design was made to improve both material and quality, champion an eco-friendly approach with less packaging required from field to shelf, as well as to deliver the quality Lyons experience that consumers know and love.

NORDIC SPIRIT WATERMELON STRONG RELAUNCH THOUGHT the taste of summer was gone? Nordic Spirit Watermelon Strong is back again for a limited time only! Experience the refreshing taste of the tropics while available. Nordic Spirit are 100% tobacco-free nicotine pouches, the more convenient and discreet way to enjoy nicotine with no smoke or vapour. They can be used anytime, anywhere. So stock up now to discover the unseen with Nordic Spirit Watermelon Strong, available for a limited time only! 18+. This product contains nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive substance.

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THAN EVER