Retail News Magazine October 2024

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Contents News 2

Celebrating the season AS we wrap up another successful Irish Quality Food Awards, Retail News as official media partner, highlights the big winners and some of the many success stories across the FMCG sector in Ireland this year.

Now, as we transition into the Halloween and Christmas season, we have a unique opportunity to carry that energy forward. At this time of year, our goal is to create a seamless experience for our customers. We’ll be introducing festive themes, seasonal promotions and special features to help highlight the categories and products that will inspire your customers to indulge in-store over these vital shopping periods.

Let’s work together to create memorable experiences that inspire our customers to celebrate with us. I’m excited for the journey ahead and can’t wait to see the magic we’ll create as we embrace the festive spirit!

Brian Clark Advertising & Marketing Director, Retail News

The Retail News Interview

3

Finalists announced for 2024 Pakman Awards.

4

Over half of Irish consumers claim to shop sustainably; New CEO at NDC.

5

Show Me ID reveals participation numbers; SuperValu and Centra reach over 125 million containers returned via DRS.

6

Back-to-school spending boosts grocery sales; BAT responds to vaping legislation.

7

Guaranteed Irish Business Awards launched for 2025; Food Matters Live coming to Dublin; Government spending boosts Irish seafood industry.

Barry Group Conference & Awards

12 Barry Group

recently held their annual conference and revealed the winners of their retail and Supplier of the Year awards.

16 With the festive season fast approaching, Sellotape continues to be a must-stock brand for Irish retailers.

Shop Profile

18 Ed Cleary’s Nenagh forecourt has been part of the Daybreak group since its inception.

22

Oreo

28 The recipe for the iconic Oreo black and white cookie has been given a delicious update.

Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards 30 The winners of the 2024 Irish Quality

Cully & Sully

40 As the Cully & Sully soup brand turns 20, it is partnering with the Alone charity on a special winter promotion.

Personal Care: Nivea

45 Julie Woodward, Marketing Manager

Ireland and Insights, Nivea, reveals the importance of innovation within the skincare category.

NOffLA Irish Wine Show Star Awards

54 The winners of the 2024-2025 Irish Wine show Star Awards are revealed.

Employment Law

Dairy

20 The NDC Guarantee appears on some 340 milk and cream products in the Republic of Ireland.

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Advertising Director: Brian Clark

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Editor: John Walshe

be much further along in its sustainability journey if there was more collaboration between government and industry on how best to proceed, argues Jonathan Diver, Senior Director – Fuel, Circle K.

Food and Drink Awards were revealed at a black tie event in Dublin’s Mansion House, where there were big wins for NI producers.

Retail News Managing Director:

22 Ireland would

Budget 25: a mixed bag for small business?

Milly Burke Cunningham

milly@tarapublications.ie

Subscription to Retail News: e95 plus VAT

Wine Correspondent:

Jean Smullen

Email: milly@tarapublications.ie

Graphics: Catherine Doyle

Printed by: W&G Baird

Reproduction without written permission is strictly prohibited.

56 A recent Supreme Court ruling has

repercussions for mandatory retirement ages in Ireland.

Regulars & Reports 8 Industry News 27 Retail Ireland: Monthly Update 42 Frozen Foods 48 Fuels: Flogas 50 Security 60 Drinks News 61 What’s New 62 Forecourt Focus: News 64 Shelf Life

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Budget 25: a mixed bag for small business?

THE National Off-Licence Association (NOffLA) has expressed its “disappointment” at the government’s decision in Budget 2025 to maintain the current levels of alcohol excise duty, which the association stresses are amongst the highest in Europe. NOffLA and the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI) had called for the government to reduce excise tax on alcoholic beverages in the budget.

A recent study by DIGI suggested Ireland charges €3,458 of excise tax per 100 litres of alcohol. Spain, in comparison, charges €380 for the same volume.

Cathal McHugh, NOffLA chairman, told Retail News: “Since the introduction of Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP), the association believes that excise is no longer necessary as a public health tool and that its reduction would have provided muchneeded relief to businesses and consumers

Cathal McHugh, Chairman, NOffLA. alike.”

The headlines around Budget 2025 focused on infrastructure, cost-of-living concerns, and family supports. But despite the tax cuts, electricity credits and rise in tax credits, retailers believe the Government failed to adequately consider the challenges facing their sector.

“In terms of specifics for the convenience retail sector, we're not seeing much in this budget,” said Tara Buckley, Director General of RGDATA. Arnold Dillon, Retail Ireland Director, also voiced his concerns: “While the wider economy is performing well, many retail businesses are grappling with major labour market cost increases. The Government signalled its intention to put in place a more realistic timeframe for the introduction of key labour market reforms. It is important this is followed through.”

“Unfortunately, issues relating to increasing business costs, particularly

labour related costs, remain unaddressed following Budget 2025 and continue to be a source of great concern for retailers,” stressed John Moane, Chief Retail and Commercial Officer, BWG Foods.

“Employment costs are spiralling, as are associated compliance requirements, and we will continue to engage the Government with the aim of better balancing the needs of employees with their employers.”

Jonathan McDade, public affairs lead at the Small Firms Association (SFA) described the budget as “a mixed bag for small businesses”, while Neil McDonnell, ISME CEO, was blunter in his appraisal: “I'm very disappointed, very annoyed”.

To the fore of retailer concerns is the cost of doing business. Budget 2025 increased the minimum wage by 80c to €13.50 per hour, to commence on January 1, 2025.

This comes on the back of a 12% rise in the minimum wage in 2023 and a further 6% hike in 2024. “It’s too much too soon,” said McDade. “Small businesses are looking for a little more time to adjust to all these increases, which have been coming thick and fast.”

The 80c rise amounts to an increase of around €1,424 per employee per annum, which will put “additional pressure on smaller businesses in particular”, according to RGDATA, who called on the Government to adjust Employer’s PRSI to assist increased wage bills. RGDTA, ISME, CSNA and other groups have joined forces to petition the Government to

John Moane, Chief Retail and Commercial Officer, BWG Foods.

reform the national minimum wage. The calculation of the wage, insist the SME Alliance, should consider that “48% of the workforce are employed by public service or multinationals, which enjoy far higher wages than the rest of us.”

In Budget 2025, the Government announced an energy subsidy scheme which grants €4,000 to hospitality and retail businesses, to a total tune of €170 million. But retailers question whether short term grants - such as the former Increased Cost of Business (ICOB) scheme or Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (TBESS) – are effective. ICOB, for example, excluded retailers who paid more than €30,000 in rates. “And TBESS in its final iteration had a compliance manual that was a hundred and thirty pages long,” said Neil McDonnell of ISME. After accounting charges were taken into consideration, the scheme was hardly worth it, he said.

Will the energy subsidy scheme grant, which breaks down to €77 a Tara Buckley, Director week, assist General, RGDATA. struggling retailers? The jury is out. “It sounds a lot like the ICOB in that it’s going to be attached to the commercial rates bill,” McDonnell continued. “Loads of [ISME] businesses don’t pay rates and they will be exempt.”

Tara Buckley argued that “The Government should not go for these one-off grants. The wage bill [increase] is happening every year, so a one-off grant doesn’t provide much solace. We would prefer a significant move on PRSI.” Certain sectors of retail – shops with delis, for example – wanted the VAT rate reduced to 9% in Budget 2025. This wish was not granted. But the off-sales sector was pleased to see excise relief for some producers of alcohol products. Cathal McHugh, NOffLA Chairman, explains: “The extension of excise relief for independent small producers of alcohol, including

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News

Arnold Dillon, Director, Retail Ireland. higher-strength products and innovative beverages like mead and elderberry wines, is a welcome support to the craft beverage industry.”

Tobacco retailers were not so fortunate.

Following a 50c levy imposed on cigarettes in Budget 2024, this year sees the price of a packet increase by €1, bringing the average price up to €18.05. Retailers Against Smuggling (RAS) described themselves as “extremely disappointed” at the decision.

In 2023, they said, 19% of cigarette packs in Ireland were illegal and 15% were legal but non-Irish duty paid. Budget 2025’s hike will speed the drive “towards illicit market activity” and remove more profit from the Exchequer, said RAS. Policing and crime is a major issue facing many retailers in Ireland in 2024.

The provision of funding in Budget 2025 for the recruitment of up to 1,000 new Gardaí has been welcomed and “should make a meaningful difference into the future”, according to Arnold Dillon. “It is crucial that short-term measures are also taken to ensure a visible Garda presence in urban centres in the run-up to Christmas.”

John Moane described the Garda funding as “good news for the retail industry

and follows significant engagement with Government to highlight the scale and nature of crime experienced at store level, while advocating for greater resources to be made available to An Gardaí Siochána to support retailers. We look forward to further engagement to highlight how these new resources, along with other important initiatives, could be best leveraged to address the current challenges.”

Other retail groups were more cynical about the state’s ability to tackle the scourge of shoplifting and retail crime.

“A retailer recently told me how the local superintendent apologised to him,” said Neil McDonnell. “The superintendent said he couldn’t find Garda to work overtime at the weekend. So it is not just about the total number of Garda we have - it's about efficient and effective use of that resource.”

SFA’s Jonathan McDade said future budgets need to consider the increasing threat of cybercrime, which can impact retailers of all sizes. “Ireland is an Englishspeaking country which makes us more vulnerable. Small businesses don't have the resources that larger businesses or the public sector has. It can happen to anyone. Nobody prepares for the issue of cybercrime until you're a victim.”

Jonathan McDade, public affairs lead at the Small Firms Association.

Budget 2025 included a few incentives for retail SME’s. The annual limit of the Small Benefit Exemption has been increased from €1,000 to €1,500. The food and drink sector, meanwhile, has welcomed the Government’s announcement to unlock €1.5 billion from the National Training Fund for investment in apprenticeships and technologies.

Cost of living measures in Budget 2025 should encourage more consumer spending.

Neil McDonnell, CEO, ISME. “Personal tax changes and other cost of living measures announced in Budget 2025 have the potential to sustain and potentially stimulate greater spending in the domestic economy in the short term,” noted John Moane.

“Tax cuts and other cost of living measures will benefit household finances,” said Arnold Dillon. “This should support consumer sentiment and retail spending as we approach the Christmas trading period.”

Cathal McHugh regretted the “missed opportunity” to reduce excise duty on alcohol but he welcomed the Budget’s cost of living and tax relief measures: “NOffLA remains optimistic about the positive effects of the broader support for small businesses and individuals.”

Finalists announced for 2024 Pakman Awards REPAK have announced the finalists for the 2024 Pakman Awards, Ireland’s leading environmental and sustainability awards. The Pakman Awards recognise and celebrate recycling and waste management excellence across businesses, organisations and community groups.

Finalists this year include Lidl Ireland, Aldi Ireland, Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company, Britvic Ireland, Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard, WeCan, Soltec, Eco-Friendly Cups, Rehab Recycling, Native Events, Novelplast, Bridgestone Europe, Clean Ireland, Limerick Polymers Production, Swords Pavilions, NR Rubber Products, and Thorntons Recycling.

Community projects by Tramore Eco Group,

Dawn Farm Foods Ltd, and Global Action Plan CLG have also been shortlisted, alongside University College Cork, Tesco Ireland and Green Generation waste prevention and awareness initiatives.

This year’s Awards will be announced at a ceremony at The Shelbourne Hotel on Thursday, October 24.

“This is a very exciting time for Repak, as we celebrate a significant milestone with our 10th annual Pakman Awards,” noted Zoe Kavanagh, Repak CEO. “This year’s awards also introduce two new categories: Best Deposit Return Initiative Award and Best Single Use Plastic Initiative Award."

Zoe Kavanagh, Repak CEO.

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Over half of Irish consumers claim to shop sustainably 51% of Irish consumers now claim to actively look for and purchase sustainably produced food products, with almost nine in 10 (87%) believing producers should be supported to be as sustainable as possible.

The findings were revealed in research as part of Nestlé’s KitKat Breaks for Good campaign in Ireland, spotlighting the importance of quality production and the integral role of cocoa farming families in the iconic KitKat chocolate treat - conducted by Empathy Research through an online survey across a nationally representative sample of 1,000 adults aged 18+ in July 2024.

The research findings show a difference among the generations, with sustainability front of mind for almost half (48%) of 25-34 year-olds. It finds that this cohort attribute greater enjoyment of a favourite chocolate treat with how sustainably it is produced, in contrast to a little over a fifth (21%) of 65+ year olds. Those aged 18-35 years (63%) said the provenance of items in their grocery basket was important, in contrast to over one in 10 of those aged 45-54 years (16%).

A little over seven in 10 (71%) say they take small, practical, everyday actions such as seeking out ethically sourced goods as part of personal environmental commitments.

“For Irish people, it's clear from the research findings that trying to be a more ‘conscious consumer’ is front-of-mind,” noted Maria McKenna, Confectionery Marketing Manager, Nestlé Ireland.

“The research shows that Irish people are attuned to the impact of committing to taking sustainability actions daily and how this contributes in a positive manner to the environment. Over eight in 10 Irish consumers (85%) believe that being aware and informed of the environmental sustainability of the products they use is a key element of living sustainably.

“Consumers also want brands to support producers to be as sustainable as possible. At Nestlé UK&I, we are using fully

Nestlé’s Income Accelerator Programme is supporting cocoa farming families by closing the living income gap of farm families and reducing child labour risk. traceable and responsibly sourced cocoa in all our Nestlé Ireland chocolate brands as part of the Income Accelerator Programme, something we know resonates strongly with our consumers.”

To date, over 30,000 cocoa-farming families are supported through Nestlé’s Income Accelerator Programme, which builds on the longstanding work of the Nestlé Cocoa Plan. The global sustainability initiative aims to close the living income gap of cocoa farming families through four main pillars – school enrolment, good agricultural practices, agroforestry and income diversification. By 2030, it aims to reach an estimated 160,000 cocoa farming families in Nestlé’s supply chain.

New CEO at National Dairy Council THE National Dairy Council (NDC) has announced the appointment of Emma Walls as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Emma has spent the last 16 years working with organic dairy producer, Glenisk as Commercial Director and takes up her new role on November 1.

On behalf of the Board of the NDC, Eamon Carroll, chairperson, congratulated Emma Emma Walls, incoming CEO at the on her appointment National Dairy Council. and said that she will be an outstanding ambassador and advocate for the dairy sector: “The NDC plays a

key role in advocating on behalf of the 17,000 Irish dairy farming families that supply consumers at home and abroad with worldclass premium products from Ireland's grassland dairy farming system. I am confident that the NDC now has a superb leader in place to continue to enhance the reputation of our excellent dairy sector.”

On her new appointment, Emma Walls said: “I am delighted to be joining the NDC at a defining moment for Irish dairy. The challenges are significant but so too are the opportunities: this island nation is unlike any other place in the world for its climate, its small family farms and its pasture-based system.

I am looking forward to working with, and on behalf of, the remarkable community of dairy farmers who protect our land and preserve our heritage for the generations to come, as they continue to produce the best quality, most nutritious food available.”

Eamon Carroll also expressed sincere gratitude to Mark Keller for his excellent service as Interim CEO over the past nine months: “Mark’s commitment and leadership have been invaluable during this time, ensuring stability and continued progress for the NDC. We are pleased that Mark will continue to contribute to the NDC in his ongoing role as Strategic Operations Director.”

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Show Me ID reveals participation numbers SHOW Me ID Be Age OK, Ireland’s largest responsible retail training programme, has released the participation numbers for 2024 to date.

With two out of the four campaigns completed in 2024, there have been 382 completions of the Show Me ID training module from retail stores around the country. This exceeds the total number for 2023, which saw 368 completions. The top three participants in the training are Musgrave Group, BWG and Circle K. Show Me ID’s online training module quizzes users on potential situations they are likely to encounter in a trading environment.

This includes questions on what best practice is when somebody looks underage, when a minor attempts to buy an age-restricted product or when an unacceptable form of identification is provided at the point of service. Retail and hospitality staff are encouraged to do the training all year round - it can be easily completed on a computer, phone or tablet. It is a valuable tool to assist retailers in refusing underage sales, especially given the recent ban on underage vape sales. Breaching this new legislation can result in fines of up to €4,000 or up to six months in prison.

Alan O’Donnell, store manager at Regan’s SuperValu Firhouse, said that Show Me ID has been “important in ensuring our staff maintain their high standards of vigilance around all age-restricted products."

Alan O’Donnell, Store Manager at Regan’s SuperValu Firhouse, and Cllr Alan Edge, Mayor of South Dublin, launching the 2024 National Show Me ID Campaign in March 2024.

Show Me ID is encouraging the Irish retail and hospitality sectors to increase uptake of the module and make themselves aware of the seriousness of the laws on age-restricted products.

For more information about Show Me ID and to access the free training module, please visit the Show Me ID website, www.showmeid.ie.

SuperValu and Centra reach over 125 million containers returned via DRS SUPERVALU and Centra have announced the return of over 125 million eligible single-use containers through the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) within its first eight months, becoming the first retailers in Ireland to reach this milestone. This achievement represents the largest number of returns in the country and highlights a significant shift in the nation’s recycling habits. It also reflects the retailers' commitment to sustainability, offering the most extensive network of Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) across Ireland, promoting waste reduction and a circular economy.

Public engagement has surged in recent months, according to the retailers, with more than 91 million containers returned since June alone, resulting in a return rate of over 95% for that period via Reverse Vending Machines in SuperValu and Centra stores nationwide, relative to total container sales.

SuperValu and Centra invested €28 million in Reverse Vending Machines across their store networks nationwide, as part of their continued focus to build more sustainable communities. SuperValu and Centra have installed 686 Reverse Vending Machines in 549 stores across all 26 counties in Ireland, the largest deployment

by any retailer, and a number of stores have ordered larger and additional machines to facilitate demand.

“As a result of offering the largest number of Reverse Vending Machines in convenient locations across every county in Ireland, we are delighted to see such a high level of interaction from our customers with the Deposit Return Scheme in our stores, with over 125 million containers returned in total since its introduction in February,” noted Luke Hanlon, Managing Director of SuperValu and Centra. “This is a testament to our loyal customers embracing the scheme, which benefits not only them, but also the wider environment.

Our data indicates that since June, over 95% of eligible cans and bottles we sell have been returned through our RVM machines nationwide. This is a significant increase in the average nationwide recycle rate for these items, which was estimated at 60-70% before the scheme’s introduction.”

He specifically thanked SuperValu and Centra retailers for the effort and investment that has gone into rolling out the scheme: “We and our retailers understand the important role we play in caring for the environment and ensuring that we make the implementation of the

Pictured at SuperValu Midleton’s newly opened Deposit Return Point is Tommy Grimes, Store Manager, Hurley's SuperValu Midleton.

DRS scheme as easy and convenient as possible for our customers. Customers are increasingly sustainability focused and it’s essential that as community retailers, SuperValu and Centra are able to empower more eco-friendly recycling habits. This demonstrates the positive benefits of our ‘Local Action Global Impact’ initiative, showing that small, community-based efforts can contribute to the broader fight against environmental challenges.”

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Back-to-school spending boosts grocery sales TAKE-home grocery sales increased by 5.4% in the four weeks to September 1, 2024, according to the latest data from Kantar, as Irish households prepared for the new school year. Shopping frequency increased by 0.7% in September, along with an increase in average prices of 2.4%.

Volumes per trip were up slightly by 0.4%, after six months of decline.

Despite inflation rising again and sitting at 2.8% over the last 12 weeks compared to the same period last year, it is still the lowest inflation level since March 2022 and is down 8.5 percentage points from September 2023.

“As summer comes to an end, many shoppers prepared for the back-to-school routine, with more packed lunches and after-school meals to prepare,” noted Emer Healy, Business Development Director at Kantar. “Shoppers continue to take advantage of promotional offers from retailers, with spending on promotions up 9.6% compared to this time last year.”

Shoppers are also being drawn to retailers' own label ranges. Sales of own label products performed strongly, up 4.5% year-on-year, holding a value share of 47%, with shoppers spending an additional €66.8 million year-on-year on these ranges.

Premium ranges also continued to do well, with shoppers spending an additional €14.2 million on these lines, up 10.2% compared to this time last year. However, with major retailers heavily promoting brands in their recent advertising campaigns, branded goods outpaced total market growth, increasing by 8.4%, with shoppers spending an additional €121 million compared to last

year. Over 60% of branded products were purchased on some form of promotion, a 9.8% rise from the same period last year.

As summer ends and the back-toschool season approaches in late August and early September, parents begin preparing for the return of school routines, including packed lunches. This led to increased spending, with an additional €2.1 million on biscuits, €1.3 million on cheese and €460k on bread. As busy schedules take hold, shoppers also turned to quick meal options, resulting in an extra €2.6 million spent on chilled convenience foods compared to August.

Online sales were up 10.7% as shoppers spent an extra €18.2 million year-on-year.

A boost in the frequency of online trips contributed a combined additional €17.5 million to the overall platform.

Dunnes hold 23.6% market share, with growth of 9.4% year-on-year. They had the strongest growth in trips amongst all retailers, up 12% year-on-year and contributing an additional €83.6 million to their overall performance.

Tesco claim 23.5% of the market, up 10.4% year-on-year. Tesco’s growth stems mainly from more frequent trips, which contributed an additional €32.9 million to their overall performance.

SuperValu hold 19.9% of the market with growth of 2.5%. SuperValu shoppers make the most trips in-store when compared to all retailers, 21.8 trips on average, up 2.5% year-on-year, which contributes an additional €15.5 million to their overall performance.

Lidl maintain 13.7% share, with growth of 6.9% year on year. More frequent trips in-store, alongside new shopper recruits, contributed an additional combined €27 million to their overall performance. Aldi hold 11.8% market share with growth of 1% year-on-year. More frequent trips contributed an additional €9.4 million to their overall performance.

BAT responds to vaping legislation BAT Ireland has welcomed the recent introduction of fines for those selling tobacco or vaping products at events for children.

However, BAT Ireland Country Manager David Melinn argued that to “truly restrict the use and appeal of vapes among the underage, a licensing and retail regime needs to be in place”.

“We urge Government to develop secondary legislation and roll out this long awaited system, which was promised as part of the Public Health (Tobacco Products and Nicotine Inhaling Products) Act, adopted last December, which will allow the HSE to revoke licences and apply penalties if tobacco or vaping products are found to be sold to those underage,” he said. “As part of the bolstering of the licensing system, retailers should also have to demonstrate to HSE Environmental Health that they observe Challenge 25 protocols or new age verification technologies at point-of-sale, such as facial recognition cameras.”

The BAT Ireland Country Manager argued that regulation to

David Melinn, Country Manager, BAT Ireland. ensure that “the right balance is struck between promoting harm reduction and diminishing the risk of unintended underage use offers the best chance of meeting the Government’s ambitious smoke-free targets, an ambition we share.”

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News Guaranteed Irish Business Awards launched for 2025 THE Guaranteed Irish Business Awards, sponsored by PTSB, have been launched for 2025. The awards will showcase the best of Irish enterprise, honouring companies that continue to make a big impact in our economy, in communities, and within the Guaranteed Irish eco system.

With over 2,500 members, these awards are all about recognising those who go above and beyond to support local jobs, and each other, whatever the sector.

The awards ceremony will take place in the Round Room at the Mansion House, Dublin, on March 20, 2025, shining a spotlight on excellence across a range of categories including Sustainability,

Construction, Food & Beverage, Technology, Pharmaceuticals and Leadership.

This year will be extra special for one Guaranteed Irish member business with over 50+ employees, as Guaranteed Irish are offering a €50,000 communications and marketing package to one lucky winner.

“Our members are the heartbeat of Ireland’s success,” noted Bríd O’Connell, CEO of Guaranteed Irish. “91% of consumers agree that by buying from Guaranteed Irish businesses, they are supporting local jobs. We are committed to keeping the spotlight on ‘supporting local while looking global’.”

Pictured at The Round Room at The Mansion House at the launch of the Guaranteed Irish Business Awards, proudly sponsored by PTSB are: Mario Rosenstock, MC; Emma Walls, Commercial Director, Glenisk - Business of the Year 2024; and Bríd O’Connell, CEO of Guaranteed Irish.

Food Matters Live coming to Dublin FOOD Matters Live is coming to Dublin.

Following its success in the UK over the last number of years, Food Matters Live recently announced details for the Dublin chapter of the event, which will take place in Croke Park over two days on November 5 and 6.

The showcase will feature an exciting and varied programme focused on sustainable sourcing, positive nutrition, emerging technology and how megatrends are impacting food ingredient innovation.

The audience, comprising of food manufacturers, brands, retailers, foodservice, QSRs, R&D and academia, are invited to attend a series of panels, case studies and roundtables across three main stages, which will play host to over 80 influential speakers, sharing thoughtleadership, key insights and best practice in food and ingredient innovation.

Pictured are Thomas Hahlin Ahlinder, President & CEO, Kerry Europe; Albert McQuaid, Chief Science and Technology Officer, Kerry; and Briony Mansell Lewis, Managing Director, Food Matters Live.

Among the confirmed speakers at the event are: Thomas Hahlin Ahlinder, President & CEO, Kerry Europe; Albert McQuaid, Kerry’s Chief Science and Technology Officer; Barbara Bray MBE, PhD

Research in Healthy Aging Diets, Queen’s University, Belfast; Emma Keller, Head of Sustainability, Nestlé UK&I; and Professor Eileen Gibney, Director, UCD Institute of Food and Health Running alongside the speaker programme, product development and innovation teams are invited to explore the application, taste, texture and mouthfeel of innovative solutions at an exclusive ‘Taste of Better’ event hosted by lead partners, including global ingredients companies such as Kerry, IFF and AAK. “Food Matters Live offers an important platform for those involved in making nutrition sustainable to come together to discuss the ways we can work together to solve current and future innovation challenges,” said Thomas Hahlin Ahlinder, President & CEO, Kerry Europe.

For more information, visit foodmatterslive.com/dublin1124.

Government spending boosts Irish seafood industry in 2023 THE Irish seafood economy faced a challenging year in 2023, with a 2.9% decline in GDP from 2022 to a total value of €1.2 billion, according to data in the Business of Seafood report by Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) published recently.

The impacts from Brexit continue to challenge the industry by limiting access to fishing opportunities and disrupting trade flows and market access. However, in response, there was an unprecedented level of government investment in the industry, demonstrating a strong commitment to the future growth and sustainability of the

sector. This investment, combined with Brexit Adjustment Reserve (BAR) funding, helped the sector achieve significant growth of 12%, bringing the total value to over €1.4 billion, despite the initial decline of 2.9% in GDP from 2022, which valued the sector at €1.2 billion.

The sector also faced challenges from the cost-of-living crisis and high inflation, further affecting the economic environment.

Consumption of seafood in 2023 increased by 9% to €515 million. The sales value of salmon grew by 9% to €130 million, and the seafood foodservice sector grew by 13% in

2023 to €189 million, just 3% off its peak in 2019. Foodservice operator purchases of seafood increased by 14%.

“The seafood industry plays a vital role in the sustainable, social and economic viability of our rural coastal communities and its importance is again evident in this year's Business of Seafood report,” said Charlie McConalogue TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine. “Government’s unprecedented level of investment, demonstrating its commitment to supporting the seafood industry through the challenges of Brexit, is reflected in the BIM analysis.”

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Industry News Aldi open new Ennis store PAUL O’Connell, Aldi Play Rugby Ambassador and former Irish rugby captain, cuts the ribbon with Store Manager, Tomas Darela, and Aldi Ennis store staff at the opening of Aldi’s new store in Ennis, Co. Clare.

Located in Westpoint Retail Park, the store becomes Aldi’s fifth store in County Clare, creating up to 30 new permanent jobs and representing an investment of over €4 million in the local area. The store has been designed to be as environmentally friendly as possible and features Aldi’s brand new self-service checkouts. Aldi is celebrating 25 years in Ireland in 2024, and now operates a network of 162 stores nationwide.

“I’m proud to officially open Aldi’s new store in Ennis,” said Paul O’Connell. “Working alongside Aldi, I know the significant impact that Aldi stores have on local communities like here in Ennis and across Clare.”

Centra launch Simple Savers offers CENTRA Simple Savers is the new initiative from the convenience retailer, designed to make on-the-go shopping easier, quicker, and more cost-effective for customers across the nation. Lighting up Centra stores nationwide, Simple Savers offers a surge of mega value deals that help customers save time, money and effort. Centra are also introducing Simple Savers Tips & Tricks, a social series sharing practical advice for saving money, time and effort in everyday tasks. Leading the content series online is teacher Tadgh O’ Donovan, who is showcasing the best tips for everyday life. Be it Back to School or snacking, these tips are designed to help customers make the most out of their days and their shopping experience at Centra, ensuring that they get maximum value with minimal effort.

As part of Simple Savers, Centra will also be offering a selection of prizes across the campaign via Instagram.

Galway forecourt sells EuroMillions raffle ticket worth €1,005,000 A FAMILY-run shop in Galway is celebrating a monumental moment after selling a winning ticket worth €1,005,000 in the September 13 EuroMillions Ireland Only Raffle Draw. Monaghan's Centra and Circle K store, located on Seamus

Quirke Road, Westside, sold the Quick Pick ticket to Ireland’s newest millionaire.

“We’re absolutely thrilled that one of our customers has become a millionaire!

Our store is located on one of the busiest roads in Galway, connecting to Knocknacarra, one of the most populated areas in the city. We're really hoping it's one of the locals who has landed this incredible win,” said store owner Simon Monaghan, pictured with Leah Guidera, Shruti Pol, Sarah Ruane, The National Lottery, Ann Monaghan, and Mark Collins.

MiWadi and Children's Health Foundation Host Monster DJ Daytime Disco BROADCASTER Alison Curtis, Méabh (aged 4) and DJ Callum with Hypeman Jack are pictured at the launch of Trick or Treat for Sick Children 2024, a fundraising campaign for Children’s Health Foundation Ireland (CHF), proudly supported by MiWadi. CHF and MiWadi are encouraging people to host a Trick or Treat for Sick Children party by signing up for a free party pack at www.childrenshealth.ie/trickortreat to raise vital funds for CHF hospitals and urgent care centres. To get families

into the Halloween spirit, a ‘Monster DJ Daytime Disco’ took place at The Bernard Shaw on September 28, where kids danced to DJ Alison’s tunes, with a special performance by DJ Callum.

Flahavan’s seek Ireland’s most Oat-standing oats FLAHAVAN’S have announced their ‘Oat Grower of the Year Award’ competition for 2024, recognising the outstanding efforts and dedication of both conventional and organic oat growers in producing top-quality oats. The Waterford-based family food business, who have been producing Ireland’s favourite porridge for more than 200 years, will evaluate their growers based on overall grain quality, considering factors such as kernel content, bushel weight, moisture levels, aroma, flavour, colour and cleanliness. Johnny Flahavan, Operations Manager, Flahavan's, and agronomist and competition judge Ciaran Collins from Teagasc are pictured at Flahavan's Mill, Kilmacthomas.

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Industry News Benecol helping consumers to ‘Fill Your Heart’ BENECOL have launched their new campaign ‘Fill Your Heart’ with Irish TV Presenter Elaine Crowley (pictured). The campaign encourages people to take care of their heart by actively managing their cholesterol. Benecol recently found that up to half of Irish adults have high cholesterol, which if untreated can contribute to coronary heart disease. Benecol products contain plant stanol ester which has been shown to lower cholesterol. Throughout Irish Heart Month in September, Benecol encouraged Irish people to take small steps to ‘Fill Their Heart’. The campaign invited the public to pledge to take on a healthy intention to look after themselves or a loved one at fillyourheart.ie For each pledge made, Benecol will donate €10 to Croí, their charity partner dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke, up to €5,000. Benecol also continues to sponsor the Croí Night Run in October.

Sky Mobile launches in Ireland SKY Mobile has officially launched in Ireland and to celebrate its arrival, Sky Mobile has introduced a ‘Price for Life’ launch plan including Unlimited calls, texts and 5G data for €15 – meaning customers will pay just €15 per month, for life. In addition to this, Sky Mobile offers a 10GB plan from as little as €10 for customers who don’t want or need an unlimited plan. “Our Sky Mobile proposition has been built with our customers at its core – providing a service that is fair, flexible and transparent. We believe Irish mobile consumers deserve better than what is currently in the market, and we have launched

Sky Mobile to fill that gap,” noted JD Buckley, Sky CEO, pictured with Sky’s Director of mobile, Aideen Chambers, at the Sky offices.

Lidl Ireland and Kerry Dairy Ireland sign supply deal LIDL have announced a new strategic partnership with Irish food giant Kerry Dairy Ireland to develop a brand-new infant formula range under the retailer’s private label, in a new supply deal worth €2 million. Suitable for both

combination with breastfeeding and bottlefed only babies, Lidl’s infant formula range is available now in Lidl’s 223 stores across the island of Ireland. “We know that cost is a significant challenge for many parents choosing to include formula within their baby’s feeding routine. That’s why Lidl has developed its ownbrand infant formula range, to offer parents greater choice and accessibility to infant milk and follow on milk at market-leading value,” said Kevin Duffy, Chief Commercial Officer, Lidl Ireland & Northern Ireland (right), pictured with Tim Gault, Commercial Director, Kerry Dairy Ireland.

Majority of consumers fail to store pineapples correctly 81% of consumers have admitted that they don’t know the correct way to store pineapples, inadvertently eating them later than ideal, according to research from Fyffes, as they launch new ‘crownless pineapples’ to Europe.

Only 19% know that the best way to store a pineapple is to chop it up and put it in the fridge, with almost a third (31%) leaving a pineapple to ‘ripen’ in a fruit bowl, a common misconception as Fyffes pineapples are always ready to eat.

“At Fyffes, we have been delivering on our sustainability targets since we set our baseline

in 2020, and we are keen to support retailers to meet this growing demand, while reducing waste and carbon emissions through innovations like the launch of our new crownless pineapple,” said Ciarán Sweeney, Managing Director at Fyffes Ireland.

Kerrygold Park sponsors Mitchelstown Community First Responder group KERRYGOLD Park, the flagship home of the Kerrygold brand, has announced its support of the Mitchelstown Community First Responder (CFR) Group through a new sponsorship. The newly established group will provide members of the local community with immediate emergency support in the event of a 999/112 call being placed. Made up of 18 volunteers from the local community, members of the Mitchelstown CFR group are first aid trained and equipped to respond to emergencies within an agreed radius. Pictured at Kerrygold Park, Mitchelstown are members of the Mitchelstown Community First Responder group Marian Ahern, Mairead Lynch, Pamela Hanna, Deborah O'Flynn, with Sean McHugh, General Manager, Kerrygold Park, and Cesar França, Managing Director, Ornua Global Foods.

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Industry News Centra host Big Pink Breakfast for Irish Cancer Society

CENTRA are encouraging people to support patients affected by breast cancer through an array of fundraising initiatives in aid of the Irish Cancer Society in Centra stores nationwide. Centra have been a key supporter of the Irish Cancer Society for 14 years and kicked off this year’s partnership with a Big Pink Breakfast on October 2. Customers will experience an array of charity initiatives taking place in their local Centra store, where they can choose to add €2 at the till, by tapping to donate to this worthy cause. Centra is selling Irish Cancer Society four-pack cupcakes for €3, with €1 of the proceeds going directly to the charity, perfect for a Big Pink Breakfast. On October 5, over 150 Centra stores nationwide hosted a local fundraising activity such as a pink breakfast or 5km community walk.

Pictured at the launch are Alison Reynolds, Claire Bowman, Maria Mueller, Sinead Gillespie, Jennifer Owens and Laura Larkin.

Mace store sells €5.5 million Lotto Jackpot ticket STORE owners Jim and Carol Mulcair are pictured celebrating alongside staff with a little help from Simon Reenan of the National Lottery after it was announced their Mace store sold the wining €5,501,086 winning ticket in the September 25 Lotto draw. Carol Mulcair, owner of the Mace store in Kildimo, Co. Limerick, was delighted with the news: “We’ve had a couple of small wins over the years but nothing of this size! It’s great for the area and will definitely create a buzz around the place. The staff are thrilled too. We’re a very rural, local shop with the same people coming in every day, so I hope it’s one of them. Whoever it is, we’re absolutely delighted for them!”

Spar celebrate National Tree Day 2024 THE Tree Council of Ireland, in partnership with Spar, encouraged primary schools across Ireland to connect with nature and plant a tree on Spar National Tree Day on October 3. The campaign, themed “Trees are MagicDraíocht na gCrann” called on children, teachers and parents to take the pledge and plant one of the 2,000 Native Irish Hawthorn tree saplings that are free to primary schools on www.treeday.ie. For the month of October, participating Spar stores are home to a fairy who is inviting local children to leave a wish at their door. Each fairy door will have a QR code for parents to scan, share their child’s wish and be in with the chance of seeing their child’s wish brought to life. Pictured are (l-r): Colin Donnelly, Spar Sales Director; Cormac Downey, President of the Tree Council of Ireland; and Helen Lalor, Spar Marketing Manager.

Lidl launch Legendairy competition LIDL were on the search to find Ireland’s fastest milker as the retailer showcased their innovative Lidl Farm experience at the National Ploughing Championships. Located at Lidl’s Regional Distribution Centre in Newbridge, County Kildare, the Lidl Farm is a free educational farm-to-fork experience developed in partnership with Agri Aware for school pupils to tell the farm-to-fork story and educate kids on food provenance and best practices in farming. Visitors to Lidl Ireland’s stand were given a taste of the Lidl Farm experience, hosted over the three days by Daithí Ó Sé, with a very special guest appearance by Late Late Toy Show star and young farmer Sheamie Garrihy (pictured).

Aldi unveil renovated Sandyford store ALDI’s Sandyford ‘Project Fresh’ store has reopened its doors to customers, following an extensive renovation project investment of over €1 million, which has seen the store interior completely refurbished. The updated Sandyford store now features the new layout that includes a wide selection of fresh food at the front of the store, hi-spec fixtures and fittings throughout the store, plus new product category signage that provides an effortless shopping experience. Aldi have begun the installation of self-service checkouts at select stores, including the updated Sandyford store. The trial of these new checkouts opened to the public in May, with Aldi committed to retaining this service for customers, while continuing to innovate with new initiatives.

Training and Development Programs

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Together, We Achieve More Our experienced team is always on-site to support you in growing sales and providing great customer service.

Benefit from bespoke plans, training programs, open communication, and effective problem-solving.

Join a trusted, established brand that supports your success and rewards your hard work. Choose Costcutter.

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Find out more about becoming a Costcutter Retailer Contact Hugh O’Donnell, New Business Recruitment Manager on 086 199 2822.

12|Retail News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie

Barry Group Conference & Awards

Celebrating excellence in retail and supply Barry Group recently held their annual conference and revealed the winners of their retail and Supplier of the Year awards in the Lyrath Hotel, Kilkenny.

TRUE to Barry Group’s purpose of ‘Growing Together’, their retail partners, suppliers and team recently celebrated their annual conference and awards in the Lyrath Hotel, Kilkenny.

Built on a key pillar from their business strategy, ‘Winning in Retail’, this event not only uncovered key insights from guest speakers and suppliers to aid their ambitious endeavors, but also celebrated their winners in retail during their awards ceremony, which celebrated top performing stores across the Costcutter and Carry Out symbol groups, along with their Supplier of the Year category.

Headlined by Fulfil founders Tom Gannon and Niall McGrath who shared their experiences on building winning brands, the conference covered key topics including retail leadership, wealth management,

category management, retail execution and store management.

In addition, the event sponsors Diageo, Mondelez, Coca-Cola Hellenic, JTI, Aryzta and the National Lottery, facilitated the ‘Retail Expert Series’, where they gave insights into their businesses and shared key actions with attendees on how to win in retail.

Investing in retailers “While a large proportion of retail success happens at execution level, there is so much more to be accounted for,” revealed Jim Barry, Managing Director, Barry Group.

“We believe that the retailers themselves play an integral role and require investment, just like the store.”

To support this viewpoint, conference sessions were hosted by Richard Collins,

Fitzpatrick’s Costcutter, Kilmihil, Co. Clare, won both the Overall Costcutter of the Year award and also took home the Forecourt award. Pictured are (l-r): Barry Filgate, Head of Sales Convenience/ Wholesale, Tayto Snacks; Michael Fitzpatrick and Josephine Fitzpatrick, Costcutter Kilmihil; and Jim Barry, Managing Director, Barry Group.

Managing Director of Walfrid Private, a leading wealth management service, as well as Stephen Doyle, Managing Director of Mazza Management Consulting.

“Outside of it being our conference theme, winning in retail is a mindset, and one that we foster and nurture in Barry Group,” Jim Barry explained. “However, we cannot achieve this alone and it does require partnership between our Barry Group team, our retail partners and suppliers. The value of days like today is that we can share our insights and start a conversation, which will fuel growth and success as an outcome for all parties.”

Barry Group Awards Following the conference, the Barry Group Awards celebrated the high standards across the Costcutter and Carry Out symbol

Reynolds’ Carry Out, Clongriffin, Dublin 13, were named the Carry Out Store of the Year, as well as winning the Carry Out North East Region award. Pictured are (l-r): Brendan Drea, Take Home Retail Account Manager, Diageo; Peter Reynolds, Carry Out Clongriffin; Jim Barry, Managing Director, Barry Group; Shane Davis, Carry Out Clongriffin; and Caoimhe McCabe, Commercial, Revenue & Category Director, Diageo.

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Barry Group Conference & Awards groups, along with the top scoring suppliers vying for Barry Group Supplier of the Year.

“While our conference is a fantastic opportunity for our retailers to refine their skills and learn of new opportunities to implement, our awards ceremony is a vital ingredient to the day as we highlight the successes which have been achieved,” said Edwina Lucey, Sales Director. “These successes are no small feat. Across both the retail and supplier awards, they acknowledge retail excellence across many disciplines.”

Notably, Jim Barry revealed on the night that the independent auditing process results had the tightest margins to date between stores, the result of a rise in standards right across the group.

Deservingly winning the overall Costcutter Store of the Year award, Fitzpatrick’s Costcutter, Kilmihil, Co. Clare, represent the very best in the Costcutter estate.

Their longstanding commitment to excellence in customer service, store standards and their local involvement in bringing the brand to life were acknowledged by the auditors and were ultimately key factors which made them successful.

Continuing the celebrations, Reynold’s Carry Out, Clongriffin, Dublin 13, was awarded Carry Out Store of the Year. Worthy winners of this award, Reynold’s Carry Out were selected for their comprehensive service offering and continuous dedication to

Barry Group Awards Winners Supplier of the Year Awards Best Ambient Supplier

Mondelez

Best Alcohol Supplier

Diageo

Best Chill & Fresh Supplier

Pilgrim Foods

Best Chill, Fresh & Frozen CB Supplier

Aryzta

Best Innovation from a Supplier

Suntory for Blue Lucozade

Best Ambient Central Billing Supplier

Tayto Snacks

Sustainable Supplier of the Year

Britvic

Costcutter Marketing Supplier of the Year

Pladis

Carry Out Marketing Supplier of the Year

Diageo

Overall Supplier of the Year

Mondelez

Carry Out Awards Carry Out Customer Service Award

Heffernan’s Carry Out, Tipperary Town

Carry Out Regional Awards

South West Award: Galvin’s Carry Out, Carrigaline North West Award: Heffernan’s Carry Out, Tipperary Town South East Award: Downey’s Carry Out, Barrack St. North East Award: Reynold’s Carry Out, Clongriffin

Carry Out Best Spirit Store

Keller’s Carry Out, Nenagh

Carry Out Best Beer Store

O’ Brien’s Carry Out, Tyrrelstown

Carry Out Best Wine Store

Downey’s Carry Out, Barrack St.

Carry Out Best Whiskey Store

Fleming’s Carry Out, Muckross Rd.

Carry Out Own Label Champion

McCarthy’s Carry Out, St. John’s Square

Carry Out Express Store of the Year

Rodger’s Carry Out, Scariff

Carry Out Store of the Year

Reynold’s Carry Out, Clongriffin

Costcutter Awards Costcutter Deli Awards

Doherty’s Costcutter, Ballybofey

Costcutter Forecourt Award

Fitzpatrick’s Costcutter, Kilmihil

Costcutter Best Bakery Award

Tierney’s Costcutterm Tulla Road

Costcutter Wine Store of the Year

Kelly’s Costcutter, Foynes

Costcutter Best POS Execution

Stafford’s Costcutter, Clonard

Costcutter Local Initiative Award

Behan’s Costcutter, Castledermot

Costcutter Best Impulse Offering

Costcutter Windy Arbour, Dublin

Costcutter Off Licence of the Year

Doherty’s Costcutter, Carndonagh

Costcutter Stores up to 2,500 sq. ft Award

Fitzpatrick’s Costcutter, Kilmihil

Costcutter Stores 2,501 - 3,500 sq. ft Award

Wallace’s Costcutter, Wellington Bridge

Costcutter Stores 3,501 sq. ft + Award

Doherty’s Costcutter, Ballybofey

Costcutter Store of the Year

Fitzpatrick’s Costcutter, Kilmihil

enhancing customer experience.

In the Barry Group Supplier of the Year awards category, notable winners included Diageo for Best Alcohol Supplier, Pilgrim Foods for Best Chill and Fresh Supplier, and Tayto Snacks for Best Ambient Central Billing Supplier. However, the Overall

Supplier of the Year was awarded to Mondelez for their outstanding application and service to every facet of the Barry Group account.

Barry Group would like to take the opportunity to thank their retail partners, suppliers and event sponsors for their ongoing support and partnership.

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Barry Group Conference & Awards

Jim Barry, Managing Director, Barry Group, presents the award for Costcutter Best Bakery, to John Tierney, Tierney’s Costcutter, Ennis, with Barry Cogavin, Head of Ireland, Pladis.

Diageo were named Best Alcohol Pictured presenting the Costcutter Supplier. Jim Barry, Managing Director, Store of the Year, Medium award Barry Group, is pictured (second from to Wallace’s Costcutter, Wellington left), with Diageo’s Brendan Drea,Take Bridge, Co. Wexford, are (l-r): Edwina Home Retail Account Manager; Caoimhe Lucey, Sales Director, Barry Group; McCabe, Commercial, Revenue & Dallan Walsh, National Account Category Director; Shannan McLoughlin, Executive, Reckitt; Joe Wallace, Key Account Executive; and Rory Costcutter Wellington Bridge; and Paul McHugh, Head of Commercial IOI – RTM. Roche, Head of Costcutter.

Eoin Kellett, Managing Director, Mondelez Ireland (right) with Kevin O’Sullivan, Field Sales & Channel Director, and Tony Costigan, National Account Manager, accept the Supplier of the Year award from Jim Barry, Managing Director, Barry Group.

Tayto Snacks were named Best Ambient Central Billing Supplier. Pictured are (l-r): Niall Hartnett, Buying Director, Barry Group; Jonathan O’Connor, National Account Manager, Tayto Snacks; Barry Filgate, Head of Sales Convenience/ Wholesale, Tayto Snacks; and Niall O’ Leary, Buying Manager, Barry Group.

Carry Out Nenagh, Co. Tipperary was named Carry Out Best Spirit Store. Jim Barry, Managing Director, Barry Group, and Michelle Tracey, National Account Manager, IDL (right), present the award to Jospehine Keller, Carry Out Nenagh.

Stafford’s Costcutter, Clonard, Co. Wexford, were winners of the Costcutter Best POS Execution. Pictured are (l-r): Philip Dalton, Channel Director, Unilever; Michael Power and Jennifer Martin from Costcutter Clonard; with Edwina Lucey, Sales Director, Barry Group; and Paul Roche, Head of Costcutter.

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Britvic were named Sustainable Supplier of the Year. Jim Barry, Managing Director, Barry Group, is pictured with Britvic’s Allen Lynch, Account Manager; Kevin Donnelly, Managing Director; and Peter Slattery, Head of Sales, Convenience Wholesale.

Aryzta were winners of the Best Chill, Fresh and Frozen Central Billing Supplier award. Aryzta’s Keith Bradshaw, Key Account Executive, Stuart Meikle, Commercial Director, and PJ Shevlin, Commercial Sales Manager, accept the award from Jim Barry, Managing Director, Barry Group.

Carry Out Tyrrelstown, Dublin 15, won the Carry Out Best Beer Store award.

Pictured are (l-r): Kevin O’ Brien, Carry Out Tyrrelstown; Elaine Kellegan, Channel Manager, Heineken Ireland; Paul Dunne, Carry Out Tyrrelstown; and Jim Barry, Managing Director, Barry Group.

Downey’s Carry Out, Barrack Street, Waterford, won the Carry Out Best Wine Store award. Pictured are (l-r): Stephen Flanagan, Senior National Account Manager, Findlater & Co; Declan Downey, Carry Out Barrack Street; and Jim Barry, Managing Director, Barry Group.

Jim Barry, Managing Director of Barry Group, presents the Carry Out Express Store of the Year to Michael and Marian Rodgers from Rodger’s Carry Out, Scariff, Co. Clare.

Pictured at the presentation of the Costcutter Store of the Year, Large Format award to Doherty’s Costcutter, Ballybofey, Co. Donegal, are (l-r) John Page, Account Manager, Costcutter; Mark Cullen, Customer Business Manager, Suntory; Edwina Lucey, Sales Director, Barry Group; Michael Doherty, Costcutter Ballybofey; and Paul Roche, Head of Costcutter.

The Costcutter Best Off Licence winner was Doherty’s Costcutter, Carndonagh, Co. Donegal.

Pictured are (l-r): Jim Barry, Managing Director, Barry Group; Caoimhe McCabe, Commercial, Revenue & Category Director, Diageo; Michael Doherty, Costcutter Carndonagh; and Brendan Drea, Take Home Retail Account Manager, Diageo.

Costcutter Windy Arbour in Dublin won the Costcutter Best Impulse Offering award. Store owner Aaron Massey is pictured receiving the award from Jim Barry, Managing Director, Barry Group.

Pictured at the presentation of the Carry Out Best Whiskey Store award to Fleming’s Carry Out, Muckross Rd, are Jim Barry, Managing Director, Barry Group; John Fleming, Carry Out Muckross Road; and Michelle Tracey, National Account Manager, IDL.

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Sellotape

Sellotape wrapping happiness With the festive season fast approaching, Sellotape continues to be a must-stock brand for Irish retailers, particularly with consumers embracing new Sellotape Zero Plastic.

ESTABLISHED in West London in the 1930s, Sellotape has been a popular household name for more than 80 years.

Originally created by applying natural rubber resin to cellophane film, the brand has introduced a number of innovations in the intervening decades, including the latest product development, Sellotape Zero Plastic.

Whatever the occasion, Sellotape has been at the heart of popular culture.

From helping people celebrate life’s precious moments through gift wrapping to sticking windowpanes throughout The Blitz, Sellotape has brought people together for decades.

Following the creation of Original Golden Tape, the brand built a reputation as the nation’s favourite sticky tape, and the Sellotape brand continues to grow from strength to strength, with the word ‘Sellotape’ even making its own entry into the English Dictionary in 1980.

A festive must-stock Generous gifts, moreish mince pies and stuffed stockings: some aspects of the

Sellotape’s Original Golden Tape, a perennial favourite with Irish consumers.

everyone wraps in their own way. Although everyone’s style of wrapping may never change, the message behind it will.

Sellotape Zero Plastic With Sellotape Zero Plastic, consumers can take the next step to becoming more sustainable through this plant-based alternative, whether at home, school or even in the office. A must have in all shops!

Reflecting on the history and evolution of Sellotape, it becomes clear why their plant-based alternative stands as the ultimate solution for festive wrapping, all while being gentle on our planet.

Sellotape Zero Plastic, a plant-based alternative which allows consumers to take the next step to becoming more sustainable, whether at home, school or even in the office. holiday season never change. The same is true for festive wrapping. With Christmas approaching, as an iconic brand, Sellotape recognises the importance of wrapping happiness, sharing the joy within every gift given.

Not only does the season exhibit the magic of Christmas but it also inspires the creativity within individuals; whether consumers are wrapping a gift or creating their own personal crafts, Sellotape continues to present ways to delight and excite shoppers.

Preparing wrapping in advance or hastily the night before,

Sellotape continues the tradition to be the ‘must have’ for everyone’s shopping list.

Continuing with the sustainability theme Sellotape are shifting from plastic to paper wrappers, marking a remarkable step towards environmental friendliness. Opting for paper packaging over plastic helps cut down on waste and promotes sustainability.

At a time of magic and joy, Sellotape continues the tradition to be the ‘must have’ for everyone’s shopping list. Share the love in being a part of someone’s journey to wrapping happiness this festive season.

18|Retail Retail News| News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie

Shop Profile

Daybreak shines in Nenagh Ed Cleary’s Nenagh forecourt has been part of the Daybreak group since its inception. Two recent investments have transformed the shop to the latest Daybreak image.

ED Cleary, owner of Cleary’s Daybreak in Nenagh, Co. Tipperary, has enjoyed a wonderful working relationship with Daybreak and the wider Musgrave organisation for a quarter of a century.

The business was started by Ed’s father as a car dealership in 1951. In 1967, they moved across the road and added fuel sales to the dealership. By the mid-1980s, a small shop was added to the forecourt and the business traded successfully as a fully independent shop for many years.

With the rise of the symbol group in the 1990s, Ed began to think that working with a strong retail partner could help grow the business to a new level. Ed and his father had built up a very good working relationship with Musgrave over the years, so for his first move into the symbol space, it was a natural choice for Ed to partner with a Musgrave brand, deciding at the time to join the Day-Today group.

His next big move came in 2006, when Musgrave Wholesale Partners launched the Daybreak brand. Ed adopted the new format eagerly, incorporating it into the shop and continuing to grow the business. In fact, Cleary’s was one of the very first shops in the country to join the Daybreak brand and it has continued to thrive in the intervening years.

Over the course of 2020 and 2021, the forecourt shop played a vital role in the

community during the pandemic, providing a vital grocery service to local shoppers and further strengthening the long-lasting bond between the store and the community it serves.

Two major investments Recent years have seen some major developments, with two large projects changing the interior and exterior of the Nenagh store. “We have made some significant investments in the shop over

the last two years,” Ed explains. “The first development involved some significant building work, which saw us integrate the off-licence into the main body of the shop and also allowed us to introduce a sit-down area into the shop.”

The second, more recent, project, saw Ed introducing the revamped Daybreak store design throughout the store. “We introduced the latest Daybreak image into the shop to keep it looking fresh, and it also allowed us to really push our fresh food

The Nenagh store recently upgraded to the latest Daybreak store image throughout the shop.

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Shop Profile Fact File: Owner: Ed Cleary Location: Limerick Road, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary Retail Space: 2,475 square feet Number of Staff: 15 full time & 17 part time Opening Hours: 06:00-22:30, Monday-Friday; 07:00-22:30, Saturday; 08:00-22:30, Sunday

Cleary’s Daybreak has a full off licence and a wide selection of tempting offers to entice their local customers. and food-to-go offering,” the store owner reveals. “We now have a superb Munch & Co deli, which allows us to offer great deli and sandwich offerings and also products such as perfectly pressure cooked breaded chicken and fresh pasta offerings at lunch, which have proven really popular. We also have the 9 Grams coffee dock, which includes iced coffee offerings, and the delicious range of Lickety Split ice creams, which taste great even during a summer like the one we just had.”

Ed’s Daybreak store is located close to a large multiple supermarket, but that has

never hampered them when it comes to footfall, as Ed explains: “A business like this is never going to undercut a competitor like that on price, but the great thing about working with a group like Daybreak is that they are able to advise you on the best place to position your business in order to drive growth. We differentiate ourselves on our fresh food and food-to-go offering and that is an area where our larger neighbour cannot compete with us now.”

Repeat local custom While the shop does attract a regular flow

The 9 Grams coffee dock has proved a real draw for customers.

of passing trade, the majority of its footfall is made up of repeat local customers. There is a good mix of local workers and people living in the area who take advantage of the wide range of products and services offered by the shop; with a full off licence, fuel and top quality fresh food and food-togo, Cleary’s offers many reasons to stop in and to keep coming back.

The shop also offers a selection of ambient grocery products and thanks to the significant buying power of Musgrave and the regular value cycles offered by Daybreak to its partner retailers, Ed is able to offer a selection of key value items to basket shoppers who need to restock their shelves between weekly shops.

“I have a lot of experience working in grocery retail,” Ed admits. “Over the years, the role of the local shop has changed very dramatically in some ways, with the rise of very high quality food-to-go offerings.

But in other ways, things have stayed very much the same. The local shop needs to serve the needs of the local community and as and when those needs change, the shop must adapt to those changes in order to prosper.”

Enthusiastic staff Another key ingredient in any shop’s success is the staff who run it, and Ed is extremely cognisant of this fact. He recently appointed a new manager, Hugh Casserly, who is proving a real asset: “Hugh has lots of ideas and enthusiasm and has started off really brightly. We have a great team here already and although it is quite a large team, everyone knows their job really well.

There is great support from Daybreak in terms of training and development and it is yet another area where the group helps me to keep my business successful.

“We have a great shop here and I’m delighted with the result of the latest investment,” Ed concludes. “Our relationship with Musgrave and Daybreak has helped this shop to be a success for decades and it will continue to do so for decades to come.”

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Dairy

Ireland’s dairy best The NDC Guarantee ensures the milk and cream products on your shelves have been produced to the highest quality standard and sourced from local dairy farmers and processors.

THE NDC Guarantee appears on some 340 milk and cream products in the Republic of Ireland, ranging from brand leaders to ‘private label’ or ‘own label’ products which are on sale in Ireland’s top multiples, including Tesco, SuperValu and Centra.

“Origin and quality are top of mind for consumers when it comes to food safety and in the context of the heightened awareness of the need to support our local economy,” explains Mark Keller, Interim CEO of the National Dairy Council (NDC) – incoming CEO Emma Walls begins her tenure in November. “There is also a growing appreciation for the superb pasture basis for dairy farming, which is a very natural environment for cows.

Local dairy farming represents a style of sustainable dairy farming that consumers are also increasingly interested in.”

Growing trust in Irish dairy New data from the NDC, the farmer-funded, consumer-facing organisation promoting Irish dairy products and production, shows that 71% of Irish people now trust Irish dairy farmers to take care of the environment.

The results, which are up 6% on May 2023 and 1% on February 2024, imply a greater public recognition of farmers’ actions to achieve environmental targets and are supported by recent EPA figures showing a 4.6% reduction in agricultural emissions in 2023.

Mark Keller believes the figures are an indicator of genuine public support for the Irish dairy industry, its 17,500 family farms, the 55,000 jobs it supports and the €6.3

billion export revenues it delivers to the Irish economy each year.

“Ireland’s dairy farmers are committed to improving their environmental sustainability and are employing new farming practices and technologies - such as soil sampling, low-emission fertilisers and GPS-guided fertiliser spreading - to achieve those goals,” Mark explains.

“That the measures are having an effect is demonstrated by the reduction in agricultural emissions seen from the EPA report.”

Part of a healthy, balanced diet At the same time, and against a background of heightened interest in and awareness

71% of Irish people now trust Irish dairy farmers to take care of the environment, according to new data from the NDC.

of plant-based alternatives, 83% of Irish people believe that dairy products are part of a healthy, balanced diet, tallying with the Irish government’s recommendation of three servings of milk, cheese or yogurt a day. This figure is 4% up on May 2023 and 2% on February 2024.

Since 2009, the NDC Guarantee has proudly adorned Irish dairy products on dairy aisles across Ireland, giving consumers the confidence that their milk and cream purchases have been produced to the highest quality standard and sourced from local dairy farmers and processors.

The NDC issues a provenance trademark to co-ops/dairy producers that guarantees end-to-end production and processing in the Republic of Ireland. This gives consumers the reassurance that milk bearing the quality trademark comes from grass-fed herds on family farms in Ireland, supporting jobs in their community.

How does the Guarantee Mark work?

The NDC trademark is given to all products farmed and manufactured within the Republic of Ireland that are fully traceable.

The NDC is responsible for the registration and maintenance of the trademark. Once an entity is a member of the NDC, pays its levy and complies with the terms of an executed trademark licence, it is permitted to use the mark, with a small annual administration contribution. The NDC appointed a Trademark Monitoring Committee to monitor and control the use of the trademark and to ensure conformance to the rules and regulations of the licence agreement.

Thank you for supporting local farms and jobs The National Dairy Council, on behalf of Irish dairy farmers and processors would like to thank SuperValu, Centra and Tesco for their continued support in stocking Irish dairy with the NDC Guarantee – a guarantee for locally sourced dairy in Ireland.

National Dairy Council Farmed and produced here in the Republic of Ireland

22|Retail News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie

The Retail News Interview

Fuelling change

Ireland needs more joined-up thinking when it comes to the transition from fossil fuels, argues Jonathan Diver, Senior Director – Fuel, Circle K, who calls for more collaboration between government and industry to speed up the process.

CIRCLE K are at the forefront of the transition from traditional fuels, diesel and unleaded petrol, to more sustainable options, but Ireland as a whole would be much further along in its sustainability journey if there was more collaboration between government and industry on how best to proceed, according to Jonathan Diver, Senior Director – Fuel, Circle K Ireland.

He cites the example of Norway, where Circle K have a sizeable business, as an example of how the state can incentivise consumers to take bold steps on the sustainability journey and speed up the transition from fossil fuels.

“One of the key things in the Norwegian business has been the government incentivisation, not just around the price of the vehicle, although they did reduce taxation rates for people buying EVs, but they also introduced other incentives, like allowing EVs to drive in bus lanes, to avoid tolls, offering free parking, to really encourage people to switch to EV, particularly in the city areas,” Jonathan explains. “I’d love to see more of that here.

There are lots of customers who want to buy EV, but they're just not sure if now is the right time. So I think more could be done to incentivise these customers.”

Ireland’s fuel industry has already

proven its ability to work closely with Government, he stresses, with two concrete examples from recent years: “During Covid and shortly after the invasion of Ukraine, when the management of fuel supply was challenged, we saw a real collaborative approach between Government and the industry in how we addressed some of those challenges that worked really well. I would like to see something similar when it comes to the move to lower carbon fuels.”

While acknowledging that there has been some engagement, the Circle K Director believes that industry and state can do far more: “We can work better together on areas like the roll-out of EV. Companies,

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The Retail News Interview Investing in new business The Circle K business in Ireland has continued to expand in recent years, as the company continually invests in both new sites and upgrading existing forecourts.

“We're continuing to grow and develop,” Jonathan notes. “Key for us has been to try and expand our footprint, particularly into parts of the country we haven't been in before.”

He cites the example of Circle K’s recent purchase of nine forecourt sites from convenience retail group Pelco, seven of which are in Dublin, with one in Meath and another in Westmeath. “These are excellent stores, with a number in the Dublin area, that help to improve our customer offering, with many of these sites giving us the added opportunity to develop our alternative fuel offering; EV chargers, HVO pumps etc,” Jonathan reveals. “As a company, we are very much reinvesting in our business each and every year and we continue to do that, so that we can keep growing and developing our offer to consumers.”

The fuel business, and that of Circle K, is changing “at a speed that we probably haven't seen before,” according to the Fuels Director. “If you look historically at the retail business over the last 10 or 15 years, it's been a real transformation in-store, where the food offer, the coffee offer and the range of services are unrecognisable

like ours, are willing to invest in EV infrastructure and if we work more collaboratively together, we will get more done sooner. Likewise, when it comes to some of the lower carbon fuels solutions, if we can combine our expertise, we can incentivise customers to make that shift sooner.

“Our industry can really help in this space because we have the supply chain and if Government can work with us, we can deliver better solutions for people, and make a real difference.”

from where they once were, and that will continue to grow and develop. But we are now seeing a real transition in the forecourt for the first time in quite a while, with the roll-out of EV and other sustainable fuels as well.”

He predicts that we are going to see a very different forecourt in the next 10 to 15 years as the sustainable revolution continues and new technologies make an impact. “This evolution is already happening and will continue, not just in Ireland, but right across Europe, where you're seeing a wider offering on the forecourt as we need to move our transport fuels offering to a far lower carbon solution that's built for the future and more sustainable than heretofore.”

Embracing the sustainability journey Circle K have embraced the sustainability journey and the role that they can and will play in the transition. “On the car side of things, we are principally focused on EV and we are driving that agenda,” he insists.

“We were one of the first forecourt service operators to get into the EV space; we put in ESB EV car chargers many years ago when no one was even talking about EV. Now we are rolling out our own Circle K EV chargers. When it comes to heavy goods vehicles, EV will come there as well, but for now the focus is on transitionary fuels like Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil; we want to

Circle K are helping to provide an alternative to fossil fuels and reduce fuel carbon emissions through the introduction of their sustainable biodiesel milesBio HVO100.

24|Retail News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie

The Retail News Interview

Circle K launched their own branded EV chargers in 2023 and will continue to roll these out across their network.

make that available to as many customers as we can, customers that have probably already set their own carbon reduction budgets. Many of these set mandates across their company to get to a zero carbon footprint; they're the companies who are pushing hardest at the moment and they're the companies that are talking to us about products like HVO and BioCNG.” Most vehicles that use diesel do not need to be modified to run on HVO. “You do need to check with your engine manufacturer, but the vast majority of vehicles that run on diesel should be suitable to take HVO,” Jonathan notes.

Circle K signed up with Gas Networks Ireland on a pilot scheme for CNG, opening the first publicly accessible, fast-fill CNG station at Circle K’s Dublin Port forecourt in 2019, and now have four pilot sites open, two of which are in Dublin. All four sites offer bio-CNG, “which is 100% renewable now and totally carbon free”, according to Jonathan.

“There was some momentum actually gathering in that space a few years ago, which got knocked a little bit by Covid,” he admits. “We were starting to see more people embrace CNG but that has slowed a little bit.”

However, for large hauliers, particularly those keen to pilot a number of more sustainable fuel types, CNG remains an option: “Some companies may not want to put all their eggs in one basket; they may have some trucks with CNG, some with HVO and they will more than likely have some EV.” More joined-up thinking When it comes to more sustainable biofuels, like HVO and CNG, Jonathan is calling for “more joined-up thinking” on the taxation policy and clearer guidance from government.

“You've got some of the lower carbon fuel products like HVO with the same VAT rates as standard products and we would love to

“EV will be the dominant transport element when it comes to car traffic. It's more a question of when rather than if.” see more done in that space to encourage our customers to buy more biofuels,” he stresses.

He also notes how grant supports for upgrading EV capability in parts of the country where it is proving “more challenging from an investment point of view” could make a huge difference. A lot of the west coast, for example, wouldn’t have the same numbers of electric vehicles on

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The Retail News Interview the road as the east coast, which means the cost of investing in an EV charging hub could be prohibitively expensive. “Targeted grant support in these areas could help us provide a better offer and make it easier for people to switch,” he says. “We have always said, as an industry, that taxing people on fossil fuel in some of those parts of the country where they don't really have alternatives isn’t the ideal way to do things. We'd rather see a better, more collaborative approach, and we can play our part, for sure.”

He confesses that the fuel industry as a whole may have “some frustration” when it comes to this area: “We feel we could make a lot more progress sooner if there was a bit more collaboration and joined-up thinking.”

Another area that could help to push change would be in government contracts themselves, whereby it could be made mandatory for those tendering for state projects to use low carbon alternatives.

The tech revolution Changing technology too will play its part, with innovations driving change and hopefully affordability. Hydrogen is widely considered to be the likely next generation of sustainable fuels. The issue with new

“We have the supply chain and if Government can work with us, we can deliver better solutions for people, and make a real difference.” tech is often about finding that sweet spot of having the right technology and making it affordable enough for people to invest in.

“For companies like us, we're prepared to actually invest in some of this infrastructure, even if the business isn't currently there,” Jonathan insists. “We are willing to try alternatives, get the solution ready and then if things do take off, we're already in position. So, for example, we expect to pilot truck charging in some of our sites no later than the next 12 months, even though there are very few truck EVs in Ireland yet. But it’s important to pilot it, to get the solutions right, get the IT right and get the equipment right to make sure it's working. Then when things start to move, you're in a much better position to move quickly and meet the customer

demand; if you're starting to roll-out the infrastructure only when there is sufficient customer demand, you're a little on the back foot.”

There was a point where there was a fear that if one invested heavily in EV charging on a forecourt today, the technology was moving so fast that in a couple of years’ time the charger would be almost obsolete.

Jonathan contends that the level of change has levelled out somewhat.

“Three or four years ago, the price of chargers and the speed of charge was changing very quickly. But now that has stabilised in terms of price and the ability of chargers; there is less risk in that space now," he says.

Gridlock: the quest for power There are, however, a number of challenges facing Circle K and other fuel companies in the transition away from fossil fuels. In the area of EV, some of the issues have been well documented, including a report in the March 2024 issue of Retail News into delays in getting EV charging hubs up and running across the country.

“We've been quite vocal on some of the challenges we face on EV in terms of cost and grid access, which are linked to each other,” Jonathan says. “The cost of getting

Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) is an excellent way of helping HGV and fleet customers to reduce their emissions by up to 90%.

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The Retail News Interview Fuels: the new generation •

•

•

•

Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) is an alternative fuel to standard diesel and an excellent way of helping HGV and fleet customers to reduce their emissions by up to 90%. Circle K are helping to provide an alternative to fossil fuels and reduce fuel carbon emissions through the introduction of their sustainable biodiesel milesBio HVO100.

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is 100% renewable and carbon free. Circle K is already supporting the commercial freight and haulage sectors, being the only forecourt to offer CNG with refuelling stations at Dublin Port, Cashel, Clonshaugh, and Ballysimon in Limerick. HGVs operating on 100% BioCNG can achieve zero carbon emissions.

E10 - Circle K supported the move from E5 to E10 in petrol products in the Irish market from July of last year, which has increased the level of ethanol in petrol from 5% to 10%, thus significantly reducing carbon emissions.

EV - Last year, Circle K launched their own branded EV chargers, which enhances their existing network, which is already the most extensive across the Irish forecourt and convenience retail industry, through its strategic partnerships with ESB, Ionity and Tesla.

access to the grid can vary quite sizably from one location to another. For an organisation like us, if it's cost prohibitive to go to one of our company-operated locations, we'll just move to the next one. But I think there's a real challenge here when it comes to the independent space where someone runs one service station in a particular town and if the cost is prohibitive for them to put an EV in that location, they’re stuck. That really needs to

be addressed, whereby costs should be more consistent to make it more equitable.”

Another major concern is that there are some national routes and motorways that do not currently have the infrastructure to allow for the kind of grid access required to power a modern EV charging hub.

“These are some pretty important locations in some cases, where demand is really high,” he says.

Delays in the process of getting set-up remain a key issue across the board: “The whole process is far too slow from applying for a grid connection to a site getting energised.”

While acknowledging that there has been “a change in terms of the willingness to push on and try and help resolve issues, particularly from the ESB network side of things, the entire process is too slow.”

He feels that allocating more resources to the area would help, and that more could be done to streamline the process: “We're not subject matter experts when it comes to how everything works in the grid access side, but we would think there have got to be better ways of making this process work faster.”

Dominant transport element Looking ahead, he is confident that “EV will be the dominant transport element when it comes to car traffic. It's more a question of when rather than if. For us, it's about continuing our investment in EV.” At the same time, Circle K will continue to push ahead with their sustainable biofuel offering, particularly for the HGV market. “We're seeing more and more of our commercial customers who really don't have an immediate alternative, certainly not one that is easy or cost-effective, so Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil is as a solution.

We're improving our infrastructure, both in our fuel terminals and in our service stations. HVO has a real transitionary role to play, particularly with Heavy Good Vehicles. We're not saying biofuels are going to be the be-all-and-end-all but until viable new technologies are developed, like electric trucks, this is a great alternative that has pretty much an immediate effect when it comes to reducing carbon emissions, that if properly incentivised could make a difference, really quickly.”

The Circle K business in Ireland has continued to expand in recent years, as the company continually invests in both new sites and upgrading existing forecourts.

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Retail Ireland: Monthly Update

Positive consumer outlook as we approach key trading period

IRELAND’S economy is performing well, with strong employment levels and tax returns, but much of the retail sector has yet to feel the full effects of the positive economic backdrop.

While consumer sentiment has improved incrementally over the past two years, it remains below historical averages. This cautious sentiment is reflective of a broader and abiding nervousness among Irish consumers.

Over recent months, food inflation has dipped towards 2%, marking the lowest level of food inflation in three years. While this drop is positive, the cost pressures of recent years are still evident in consumer behaviour.

Throughout 2023 and into early 2024, many consumers adjusted their shopping patterns to cope with rising prices, opting for

smaller basket sizes, switching to private labels, and choosing more affordable products. These trends are likely to persist, even as cost of living concerns ease further.

Recent Irish League of Credit Union consumer surveys suggest that many consumers have found 2024 tougher than anticipated. While roughly one in five consumers (21%) say their financial circumstances have been better than expected, one in three (32%) say 2024 had proven tougher than anticipated.

Shortfalls in income and higher than expected living costs have both been key features of consumers’ experience of their household financial circumstances so far this year.

However, real income growth, the return to low inflation, falling interest rates, and tax cuts in the budget are likely to support a stronger consumer outlook in the run-up to Christmas. The consumer outlook is broadly positive.

Despite positive news for consumers, businesses continue to face pressure from rising operational costs, particularly in the labour market. Managing cost pressures will remain a key focus for businesses over the coming months.

Safety and security key election issues THE problem of retail crime, anti-social behaviour and the harassment of retail workers has grown significantly over recent years. It is crucial that additional steps are taken to urgently address the problem. This must include a more visible Garda presence in town and city centres and improved response times, but we also need a longer-term approach.

We should look to see what is working elsewhere. Retail crime

has been a big issue on the UK political agenda over the last year.

A year ago, the UK government launched a new Retail Crime Action Plan. The plan includes a police commitment to prioritise urgently attending the scene of shoplifting instances involving violence against a shop worker, where security guards have detained an offender or where attendance is needed to secure evidence. Police also reaffirmed their pledge to follow up on any evidence that could reasonably lead to catching a perpetrator.

In April this year, the UK government set out new measures, including: • The introduction of a new offence for assaulting a retail worker; • Expanding the use of electronic monitoring for prolific shoplifters; • Maximising the use of new technologies for the prevention and detection of retail crime; • Making it easier to report crime and share information between businesses and police.

It is vital that tackling retail crime is central to the work of the next government here. Retail Ireland is currently talking to political parties to make sure it forms part of the Programme for Government after the next election.

Tel: 01-6051558 |

www.retailireland.ie

Need more?

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.

28|Retail News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie

Oreo

Oreo launches its tastiest cookie ever The recipe for the iconic Oreo black and white cookie has been given a delicious update set to tantalise taste buds.

OREO, the beloved cookie brand, is excited to launch its brand new recipe, filled with even more cocoa, to create the tastiest Oreo cookie yet.

Guaranteed to delight tastebuds, the newly crafted recipe captures the perfect balance between the famous crème vanilla filling with an intensified cocoa flavour cookie.

Oreo has enriched its original recipe with more cocoa to deliver a more balanced experience, in line with the changing tastes of consumers. Whilst dialling up Oreo’s taste credentials, the recipe renovation sees a reduction of sugar content to cater to evolving consumer preferences.

The new cookie maintains the popular crunchy texture that has made Oreo a fan-favourite, ensuring that the well-loved signature twist and dunk experience remains.

New packaging design Alongside the recipe update, Oreo is getting a new look, with refreshed packaging across the whole Oreo range.

The new design will incorporate simple and bold graphics, a more vibrant blue

Oreo logo and an updated cookie shot, all whilst emphasising Oreo’s sustainability credentials.

“We are incredibly excited to introduce our tastiest Oreo cookie yet,” reveals Violaine Menard, Innovation Manager for Oreo at Mondelēz International. “Oreo lovers are at the heart of everything

we do, and this new recipe reflects our commitment to refine our products to meet the evolving tastes and preferences of consumers, whilst remaining true to our Oreo brand heritage. We hope that consumers will enjoy the elevated Oreo experience.”

The new and improved recipe is being rolled across the Oreo portfolio and supported by an ATL/BTL campaign across Europe, to get as many consumers as possible to taste it!

About Oreo Oreo is the world's favourite biscuit, enjoyed by families and friends in more than 100 countries around the world.

Oreo is the best-selling biscuit of the 21st century, with $4 billion in global annual revenues. The Oreo biscuits' ‘Twist Lick Dunk’ ritual has become the signature way to enjoy this iconic biscuit in many different cultures around the world. Oreo has a Facebook community of more than 40 million Oreo lovers around the globe, representing 200+ countries and dozens of different languages. Oreo ranks among the top five brand Facebook pages in the world.

The new recipe Oreo, with even more cocoa, also has a new look, with refreshed packaging across the whole Oreo range.

30|Retail News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie

Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards

Quality rewarded at prestigious awards ceremony

The winners of the 2024 Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards were revealed at a black tie event in Dublin’s Mansion House.

THE prestigious Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards (IQFDA) have unveiled their 2024 winners, highlighting the pinnacle of excellence in Ireland’s food and drink industry. This year’s awards showcase the finest products from producers, wholesalers and retailers across Ireland, celebrating innovation, quality and dedication to exceptional standards.

This year’s much-anticipated awards ceremony on Tuesday, September 10, took place at the iconic Round Room at The Mansion House, Dublin, and was hosted by renowned content creator and comedian Garron Noone, who entertained the crowd with his comparisons between Dublin and his home county of Mayo. The event was sponsored by ABP, Aldi, Dunnes Stores Simply Better, Invest NI, and VPK Packaging.

“It’s been another fantastic year for Irish produce,” enthused Beth Treleaven, Brand Director of the IQFDA. “We have been

delighted to see the innovation, quality and variety of products on offer, and the standard really gave our judges a run for their money in awarding. Congratulations to all the finalists and winners, and we look forward to seeing how you can top that in 2025!”

Independent judging panel Now in its 11th year, the IQFDA is dedicated to recognising and celebrating the finest food and drink products on sale each year across Ireland.

Entries are evaluated by an independent judging panel of over 100 industry experts during an extremely rigorous judging process. All entrants receive detailed feedback from the esteemed panel of judges, and winners also benefit from receiving a recognised accreditation that helps to facilitate new business.

Small producers, those with under 10 staff and €1 million turnover, are

automatically entered into the Small Producer of the Year Award, sponsored by Dunnes Stores Simply Better. This year’s winner, Bia Bona Dea, joins the likes of Wildberry Bakery, Meere’s Pork Products, Sage Restaurant and more in winning the prize of an opportunity to create a Simply Better product with support from the team.

Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Mixed Berry Preserve was named Product of the Year, while Dunnes Stores also took home the Drinks Product of the Year for their Dunnes Coteaux Du Vendômois Blanc, which also won in the White Wine category.

Lidl Ireland were named Retailer of the Year and Drinks Retailer of the Year, and the Lidl Deluxe range also took home the Own Label Range of the Year award.

“Being awarded Retailer of the Year at this year’s Irish Quality Food Awards is an incredible milestone and achievement for us at Lidl Ireland,” said Kevin Duffy, Chief Commercial Officer at Lidl Ireland

Winner of Ireland's Retailer of the Year

You can proudly call us the winner of the Irish Quality Food and Drinks Retailer of the Year.

The judge’s tastebuds don’t lie, with more than 100 wins, including Drinks Retailer of the Year AND Best Own-Label Range of the Year with Deluxe.

That Left A Great Taste In Our Mouths… And The Judges’!

IRISH QUALITY FOOD AND DRINK AWARDS

®

OWN LABEL RANGE 2024-2025

IRISH QUALITY FOOD AND DRINK AWARDS

IRISH QUALITY FOOD AND DRINK AWARDS

® DRINKS RETAILER OF THE YEAR 2024-2025

SILVER

®

2024

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Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards and Northern Ireland. “It is a testament to the incredible work of our team, who work hard behind the scenes to bring Lidl customers the highest quality products at the best possible prices. Our unbeatable value means customers can shop without compromise on price to get amazing quality products. We would also like to thank our Irish suppliers for continuing to ensure Lidl shoppers are getting the very best when they shop with us.”

Lidl also secured a record 104 award medals at the prestigious event, including 29 Gold, 35 Silver and 40 Bronze medals.

Proving the retailer’s fresh offering is going from strength to strength, key products that secured medals included a number of Lidl’s quality beef steaks, including their Deluxe Irish 32 Day Aged and 30 Day Aged Angus Striploin Steaks. New to Lidl’s everyday range, their private label sushi was awarded an incredible four Gold medals for Sushi Ichiban & Matsu, Sushi Prawn & Surami Poke Bowl, Sushi Salmon Poke Bowl and Sushi Zen & Sakur.

Supplier of the Year, sponsored by Aldi, was Crust and Crumb Bakery, from Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh.

The IQFDA stands as a testament to the

exceptional talent and creativity within Ireland’s food and drink sectors. This year’s winners have demonstrated remarkable quality, innovation, and dedication, setting new benchmarks for excellence.

For a full list of winners and detailed insights into this year's awards, please visit irish.qualityfoodawards.com.

Performance Award Winners Christmas Product of the Year: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Sticky Toffee Pudding Christmas Retailer of the Year: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Drinks Product of the Year: Dunnes Coteaux Du Vendômois Blanc

Retailer of the Year: Lidl Rising Star of the Year: David Hartigan, Hemp Heroes Small Producer of the Year, sponsored by Dunnes Simply Better: Alternative Christmas Pudding Company Supplier of the Year, sponsored by Aldi: Crust and Crumb Bakery Own Label Range of the Year, sponsored by VPK Packaging: Lidl Deluxe

Foodservice Product of the Year: Sysco Irish Nature T-Bone Steak, ABP Cahir

Gold award winners (All Year Round categories) Bacon: Lidl Deluxe Outdoor Reared Dry Cured Streaky Rashers, Crowe Meats Lidl Glensallagh Thick Cut Applewood Smoked Irish Rashers, Honeyvale Foods

Product of the Year: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Mixed Berry Preserve

Baked Breakfast Products: Applegreen Bakewell Héritage Butter Croissant

Drinks Retailer of the Year: Lidl

All the winners at the 2024 Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards in the Mansion House, Dublin.

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Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards Braeburn Sicilian Lemon Croissant, Delifrance Dromod Potato Bread Beef: Dunnes Stores Cook at Home Cook in the Bag Slow Roasting Sweet & Sticky BBQ Irish Beef Brisket, Kepak Vintage Reserve French Dressed 2 Bone Rib of Beef, Dawn Meats Beef Steaks - Fillet: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Irish Angus Fillet Steaks, Tender Meats Beef Steaks - Other Cuts: Vintage Reserve T-Bone Sharing Steak, Dawn Meats Beef Steaks - Ribeye: Dunnes Stores Extra Matured Irish Beef Thick Cut Rib Eye Steaks, Kepak Pictured are Ella Jackson, Marketing Manager, Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards, presenting the Retailer of the Year Award to Kevin Duffy, Chief Commercial Officer, Lidl Ireland.

Beef Steaks - Sirloin: Aldi Butchers Selection Sirloin Steak, ABP Cahir Beef Steaks - Striploin: Aldi Specially Selected Irish Black Angus Striploin Steak, ABP Cahir Lidl Deluxe 2 Irish Angus Striploin Steaks 32 Days Matured, Liffey Meats Burgers and Meatballs: Aldi Specially Selected Irish Wagyu Beef Meatballs, ABP Cahir Butter: Connacht Gold Pure Irish Butter, Aurivo Consumer Foods North Cork Creameries Ór Real Irish Butter Chocolate and Confectionery: Aldi Roisin's Salted Caramel Filled Bar, Lir Chocolate Condiments: Blarney Bees Raw Irish Hot Honey & Irish Black Butter Crisps: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Hand Cooked Crinkle Cut Sea Salt & Vinegar Crisps, Glens of Antrim Keogh's Crinkle Cut Flame Grilled Irish Steak Crisps Keogh's Crinkle Cut Irish Atlantic Sea Salt Crisps O'Donnells Crinkle Cut Cheese & Red Onion Crisps

Pictured accepting the Product of the Year Award for Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Mixed Berry Preserve were: Margaret O’Reilly and Derek Gallagher from Dunnes Stores, with Garron Noone (left), event MC, and celebrity chef Jeeny Maltese.

Dairy Spreads: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Cream Cheese, Killowen

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Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards High steaks!

Garron Noone, MC at the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards.

Eggs: Dunnes Farm Pastured Eggs

ABP took home no fewer than 17 awards at the prestigious annual Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards (IQFDA), including six Gold Awards, seven Silver Awards, and four Bronze Awards for their meat products across nine different categories.

ABP received Gold Awards across the categories of Beef Steaks Sirloin, Beef Steaks Striploin, Burgers and Meatballs, Reduced Fat Meat, and Foodservice Meat for the following products: Sirloin Steak, Irish Black Angus Striploin Steak, Irish Wagyu Beef Meatballs, 5% fat lean Irish Beef Burgers Chipotle Chili Seasoning, Irish Nature Mohawk Steak, and Irish Nature T-Bone Steak.

“We are extremely proud and honoured to continue our success at the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards,” noted Kevin Cahill, Managing Director, ABP Ireland & Poland.

“It's truly remarkable to have our products recognised alongside the outstanding food and drink from top Irish producers across the sector. These awards highlight the best of what the Irish food and drink industry offers. Receiving 17 awards in various product categories are a testament to the dedication, innovation, and hard work of both our team and our farmer suppliers.”

Sysco partnered with ABP for three wins in the Foodservice category, being awarded Joint Gold in the highly competitive Foodservice Meat Category for two of its standout products, Irish Nature Mohawk Steak and Irish Nature T-Bone Steak, which was also recognised as the 'Foodservice Product of the Year', underscoring the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of both companies’ offerings in the foodservice sector.

“We are delighted to have won three gold awards at the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards. Working alongside our meat processing partners ABP, it is an honour to have our speciality, artisan beef products recognised for their exceptional quality, cut and taste,” said Marian Cahill, Merchandise Director, Sysco Ireland. “For the past 35 years we have been working in partnership with ABP and together we are committed to producing the highest quality, sustainable and perfectly aged steaks that not only meet but exceed our customers’ expectations. These awards are a testament to that commitment and to the hard work and dedication of the wider Sysco family and our partners.”

Food To Go: Lidl Oishii Sushi Ichiban & Matsu, Oishii Foods Lidl Oishii Sushi Prawn & Surami Poke Bowl, Oishii Foods Lidl Oishii Sushi Salmon Poke Bowl, Oishii Foods Lidl Oishii Sushi Zen & Sakur, Oishii Foods Free From Allergens: Mór Taste Tiger Treat Free From Gluten: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Double Chocolate Brownies, Wildberry Bakery, Grásome! Orange Chocolate Brownies Grásome! Original Chocolate Brownies Fruit: Aldi Specially Selected Strawberries, Greenhill Fruit Farm Game: Lidl Deluxe Duck Breasts with Garlic & Pepper, Silver Hill Hard Cheese: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Austrian Organic Glockner-Taler, Traditional Cheese

Pictured at the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards ceremony are (l-r): John Walsh, ABP Ireland Commercial Director; Kristina Campion, ABP Ireland Marketing Manager; Eleanor Russell, Sysco Centre Plate Category Manager; and Mark Dobbie, Sysco Merchandising Category Specialist.

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Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards

Bia Bona Dea was the Small Producer of the Year winner, sponsored by Dunnes Stores Simply Better: pictured are (l-r): Garron Noone, event MC; Sadhbh and Niamh Cosgrove, Alternative Christmas Pudding Company; and Brian McDermott, celebrity chef.

Hot Beverages: Bro38 De Bro Swiss Water Decaf Whole Bean Lidl Deluxe Premium Guatemalan Roast & Ground Coffee, Melitta Lidl Fallon's Gold Blend Tea, Bewley's Lamb: Aldi Specially Selected Lamb Guard of Honour with Rosemary, Garlic & Sea Salt Rub, Dawn Meats Lidl Deluxe Lamb Rump Roast with Garlic, Sea Salt and Rosemary Rub, Dawn Meats Lidl Deluxe West of Ireland Whole Lamb Leg, Dawn Meats Loaves: Celtic Crumb Country White The Daily Apron Bakery Charcoal Sourdough Meal Accompaniments: Lidl Deluxe Potato Gratin, Daily Bake Holdings Meat Antipasti and Sliced Meats: Brady Family Master Butcher Dry Aged Glazed Ham Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Irish Chorizo, Corndale Farm Pasta, Rice and Grains: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Italian Burrata & Basil Pesto Cappellacci, Bertagni Prepared Fish: Aldi Specially Selected Salmon Sensation,

Dunn's of Dublin

Mór Taste Raspberry Jam

Prepared Meat: James Whelan Butchers Breakfast Roulade Glenhaven Gold Original Recipe Irish Chicken Fillet Tenders Glenhaven Gold Sizzler Hot & Spicy Irish Chicken Fillet Tenders

Reduced/Low Meal Kits: Slims Healthy Kitchen Chinese Style Chicken Curry Slims Healthy Kitchen Korean Style Chicken with Jasmine Rice Slims Healthy Kitchen Soy & Ginger Chicken with Hoisin Noodles

Preserves and Sweet Spreads: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Mixed Berry Preserve, Wexford Home Preserves Lidl Maribel Smooth Peanut Butter, Intersnack Mór Taste Chocolate & Hazelnut Spread Preserves and Sweet Spreads - Honey: Blarney Bees Beechwood Smoked Raw Irish Honey Holywell Honey Quiches, Pies and Savoury Pastries: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Irish Ham & Vintage Irish Cheddar Quiche Lorraine, Zanna Cookhouse Reduced Fat Meat: Aldi Butchers Selection 5% Fat Irish Beef Burgers with Chipotle Chilli Seasoning, ABP Cahir Mallons Light Chicken Sausages Mallons Light Turkey Sausages Reduced/Low: Irish Yogurts Clonakilty O% Natural Kefir Lidl Crownfield No Refined Sugars Coconut, Cashew and Almond, Life Health Foods

Salad: McCormack Family Farms Irish Watercress Morning Fresh Living Butterhead Lettuce Sausages: Lidl Deluxe Caramelised Onion Pork Sausages, Sean Loughnane Lidl Deluxe Outdoor Reared Dry Cured Jumbo Sausages, Crowe Meats Lidl Deluxe Three Chilli Pork Sausages Infused with Exotic Chillies, Sean Loughnane Savoury Biscuits: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Italian Rosemary Grissini, Retail Outsource Solutions Dunnes Stores Simply Better Italian Sea Salt & Olive Oil Organic Bruschetta, Retail Outsource Solutions Savoury Snacks: Blanco Niño Chilli & Lime Tortilla Chips Mushroom & Love Umami Delight Shellfish and Seafood: Lidl Deluxe Irish Mussels in White Wine Sauce, Bantry Bay Mussels

36|Retail News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie

Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards

Rebecca Buchanan (centre), Senior Buyer, Lidl Ireland, celebrates Lidl’s successes at the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards with event MC, Garron Noone, and Jeeny Maltese, celebrity chef.

Small Cakes: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade All Butter Mixed Berry Puddings, What's for Pudding?

Dunnes Stores Simply Better & Handmade Irish Raspberry Bakewell Slices, Carleton Cake Company

Store Cupboard - Other: Crawfords Rock Seaweed Salt Fox Covert Farm Hemp Hearts

Sysco Irish Nature T-Bone Steak, ABP Cahir

Sweet Biscuits: Lidl Deluxe Shortbread Original, East Coast Bakehouse

Champagne: Aldi Veuve Monsigny Champagne, Champagne Warehouse

Soft Cheese: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Irish Farmhouse Wicklow Ban Double Cream Brie, Artisan Cheese

Vegan and Vegetarian Meal Centres: Sons Of Butchers Jalapeno Bluff Burger, Loughnanes Of Galway Sons Of Butchers Sweet Potato and Chilli Burger, Loughnanes Of Galway

Gin: Aldi Boyle's Gin, Blackwater Distillery

Soft Drinks - Carbonates, Cordial and Presse: Moocha Kombucha Cola Kombucha Naturally Cordial Strawberry & Raspberry Soft Drinks - Juice and Cold Pressed: Aldi Mango Gut Health Juice Shot, Frubaca Aldi Specially Selected Pressed Cloudy Irish Apple Juice, P. Mulrine and Sons Lidl Deluxe Apple Pressed Juice, P. Mulrine & Sons Soups: Lidl Deluxe Sri Lankan Chicken Soup, Galmere Fresh Foods Speciality Cheese: Lidl Deluxe French Roquefort, Renard Gillard Store Cupboard - Baking: Jinny's Bakery Aimee's Chocolate Brownie Mix Jinny's Bakery Irish Stout Bread Mix

Vegan and Vegetarian Sweet Items: Crawfords Rock Dandelion Honey Yogurt: Aldi Specially Selected Farmhouse Yogurt Lemon Curd, Greenvalley Farms Aldi Specially Selected Greek Style Luxury Yogurt Apple and Cinnamon Clandeboye Estate Apple & Cinnamon Crumble Greek Style Yogurt Foodservice Gold Award Winners Foodservice - Cakes and Desserts: Treats by Sylvia Banoffee Cheesecake Foodservice - Fresh Produce: McCormack Family Farms Premium Seasonal Edible Flowers Mix Foodservice - Meat: Sysco Irish Nature Mohawk Steak, ABP Cahir

Drinks Gold Award Winners

Liqueurs, Speciality Spirits and Fortified Wine: Lidl Bitterol Aperitif, Casoni Lidl Deluxe Irish Cream Liqueur, Terra Lidl Deluxe Salted Caramel Irish Cream Liqueur, Terra Ready to Drink: Lidl Bitterol Spritz, Bimmerle Red Wine: Aldi Malvasia Nera Puglia, North South Wines Lidl Ermita Rioja Crianza, Classic Drinks Sparkling Wine: Aldi Castellore Organic Prosecco, Casa Vinicola Corvezzo White Wine: Aldi Castellore Organic Pino Grigiot, Casa Vinicola Corvezzo Dunnes Coteaux Du Vendômois Blanc Rapaura Springs Rohe Dillons Point Sauvignon Blanc 2023

Northern Ireland Bringing our world-class food and drink to your table.

Congratulations to all of the Northern Ireland Food and Drink producers who secured a place in the final of the 2024 Irish Quality Food Awards, celebrating the best of retail, wholesale and foodservice food and drink products available in Ireland.

Many other NI companies were recognised for their innovation and hard work. You are all winners!

For more information on the NI finalists wide range of quality and innovative NI food and drink products, contact Jen Guiney

Northern Ireland food and drink producers took home thirty-one awards including seven Bronze, eight Silver and fifteen Gold awards this year.

T:+44 (0) 7985 111024 E: jen.guiney@investni.com

It is particularly encouraging that Crust and Crumb Bakery, Ireland’s largest manufacturer of ambient, chilled, and frozen dough-based products, including gluten-free options, scooped one of the most prestigious Performance Awards - the ‘Supplier of the Year’ Award.

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Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards: Invest NI

Northern Ireland scores at IQFDAs There were big wins for NI producers at the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards, including the overall ‘Supplier of the Year’ Award.

IT was an unprecedented year for Northern Ireland food and drink producers at the recent 2024 Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards held in the Round Room in the Mansion House, Dublin.

Crust and Crumb Bakery, Ireland's largest manufacturer of ambient, chilled, and frozen dough-based products, including gluten-free options, scooped one of the most prestigious Performance Awards, having been named ‘Supplier of the Year’.

Crust and Crumb’s expertise spans private-label pizza bases, topped pizzas, garlic breads, wraps and flatbreads, which they craft in close collaboration with leading retail and foodservice partners.

With six advanced BRC 'AA' accredited production facilities across Counties Fermanagh, Armagh, and Cavan, including a specialised Free-From site, Crust and Crumb are globally recognised for their leadership in flatbread and garlic bread production.

Huge variety of awards In addition to Crust and Crumb taking one of the most prestigious awards on the night, Northern Ireland food and drink producers were awarded 31 awards, including seven Bronze, eight Silver and 15 Gold awards.

Slim’s Healthy Kitchen scored a hat-trick, taking three Golds for their Chinese Style Chicken Curry, Korean Style Chicken with Jasmine Rice and Soy & Ginger Chicken with Hoisin Noodles in the Reduced/Low Meal Kits category. Cooked from scratch, never frozen, Slim’s Healthy Kitchen convenience meals are available in stores throughout Northern Ireland. These macrobalanced meals come in an array of world flavours and are ready in minutes.

Glens of Antrim dominated the ‘Crisps’ category, winning Gold, Silver and Bronze awards for their Hand Cooked Crinkle Cut Sea Salt & Vinegar Crisps, Hand Cooked Crinkle Cut Pickled Onion Crisps, and their Hand Cooked Crinkle Cut Whiskey Smoked

Crust and Crumb took home the prestigious ‘Supplier of the Year’ Award. Pictured are (l-r): event MC Garron Noone, with Jack Coulter, Crust and Crumb, and Padraig Barry, Director of Communications and Public Affairs, Aldi Ireland.

Bacon Crisps, produced for Dunnes Stores Simply Better range.

Highly acclaimed Awards Now in their 11th year, the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards are highly acclaimed within in the Irish food and drink Industry.

Entries are evaluated by an independent judging panel of more than 100 industry experts, during an extremely rigorous judging process. The Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards have become a well-recognised badge of excellence amongst customers and the food and drink community across the island of Ireland.

Speaking of the importance of its longterm partnership with the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards, key sponsor, Jen Guiney from Invest Northern Ireland said, “Invest NI greatly values the relationship we have with the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards and recognise the importance of celebrating the best of retail, wholesale and foodservice food and drink products across the island of Ireland.”

Award-winning retail and foodservice solutions According to Jen, “Retailers and foodservice operators in the Republic are increasingly recognising that Northern Ireland epitomises clean, quality food from producers dedicated to excellent customer service. Likewise, year on year at the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards, Northern Ireland food and drink producers are successfully demonstrating successful collaborations and the ability to produce award-winning retail and foodservice solutions on behalf of their customers.”

She described it as “tremendously important and encouraging” to see so many Northern Ireland food and drink companies winning at the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards. “Their outstanding achievements demonstrate that Northern Ireland is now an international hub for innovative, creative and quality food and drink,” Jen concluded.

“Success also offers a springboard for sales to leading retailers in the Republic of Ireland, our biggest export market.”

For more information on the NI finalists' wide range of quality and innovative NI food and drink products, contact Jen Guiney T: +44 (0) 7985 111024, Email: jen.guiney@investni. com or visit www.buynifood.com.

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Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards: Invest NI Northern Irish winners at the 2024 Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards Performance Award – Supplier of the Year – Crust and Crumb Bakery Ltd Condiments Gold: Irish Black Butter Silver: Blackfire Food x En Place Foods Ghost Pepper & Black Lime Ketchup Silver: Marshall Beekeeping Northern Irish Hot Honey

Jen Guiney, Invest NI, pictured at the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards.

Crisps Gold: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Hand Cooked Crinkle Cut Sea Salt & Vinegar Crisps, Glens of Antrim Silver: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Hand Cooked Crinkle Cut Pickled Onion Crisps, Glens of Antrim Bronze: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Hand Cooked Crinkle Cut Whiskey Smoked Bacon Crisps, Glens of Antrim

Reduced/Low - Meal Kits Gold: Slim's Healthy Kitchen Chinese Style Chicken Curry Slim’s Healthy Kitchen Korean Style Chicken with JasmineRice Slim’s Healthy Kitchen Soy & Ginger Chicken with HoisinNoodles

Free From Gluten Silver: Green Fingers Family Lemon & Turmeric Energy Balls

Small Cakes Silver: Deli Lites Cinnabun Cake

Hot Beverages Gold: Bro38 De Bro Swiss Water Decaf Whole Bean Silver: Belfast Coffee Roasters Ethiopia Bale Mountain

Moocha Kombucha’s Cola Kombucha took Gold in the Soft Drinks - Carbonates, Cordial & Presse category. Pictured are event MC Garron Noone with Bronagh and Michael Quail of Moocha Kombucha and Fiona Staunton, Fiona’s Food For Life.

Crawford’s Rock Seaweed Salt took home the Gold award in the Store Cupboard – Other category. Pictured are (l-r): event MC Garron Noone with Michelle Crawford, Crawford’s Rock Seaweed Co., and Ciara Daly, Conquer Digital.

Meat: Pork Silver: Lidl Deluxe Irish Stuffed Pork Fillet with Apricot &Raisin Stuffing, Karro Foods Bronze: Lidl Deluxe Irish Stuffed Pork Fillet with Apple andRosemary Stuffing, Kar-ro Foods Bronze: Lidl Deluxe Pork Fillet Medallions with a Creamy AppleCider Sauce, Karro Foods

Ice Cream and Lollies Bronze: Glastry Farm Mango and Passionfruit Sorbet Loaves Gold: The Daily Apron Bakery Charcoal Sourdough

Savoury Snacks Bronze: Lidl Deluxe Flavoured Irish Atlantic Sea Salt Popcorn, Golden Popcorn

Soft Drinks - Carbonates, Cordial & Presse Gold: Moocha Kombucha Cola Kombucha Store Cupboard - Other Gold: Crawford’s Rock Seaweed Salt Vegan and Vegetarian Sweet Items Gold: Crawford’s Rock Dandelion Honey

Meal Accompaniments Gold: Lidl Deluxe Potato Gratin, Daily Bake Holdings

Yogurt Gold: Clandeboye Estate Apple & Cinnamon Crumble Greek Style Yogurt

Meat: Beef Gold: Vintage Reserve French Dressed 2 Bone Rib of Beef, Dawn Meats

Foodservice Categories (Foodservice) Food to Go Bronze: Deli Lites Peshwari Chicken Flatbread

Beef Steaks - Other Cuts Gold: Vintage Reserve T-Bone Sharing Steak, Dawn Meats

Drinks Categories Cider Bronze: Aldi Armagh Craft Cider

Meat: Antipasti and Sliced Meats Gold: Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Irish Chorizo, Corndale Farm

Low/No Alcohol Silver: Jackson Roze Extra Strength Ginger Wine

40|Retail Retail News| News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie

Cully & Sully

Soup-er stars The Cully & Sully soup brand is turning 20 this winter, and is partnering with the Alone charity on a special winter promotion.

Cullen Allen, AKA Cully, agrees: “We really wanted to use this milestone as an opportunity to give back to our customers and to those most in need in Ireland during these colder months.”

Charity campaign with Alone To celebrate turning 20, Cully & Sully are asking the nation to ‘Share Your Warmth’ this winter for the charity Alone. Over the winter, Cully & Sully are calling out for donations on their soup lids for the charity.

Alone is a nationwide charity that helps older people age at home. Cully & Sully have pledged to match the nation's donations up to €20,000 for Alone’s winter campaign, ‘Share Your Warmth’. Moreover, the campaign encourages people to give the soup to an older friend or family member and spend some time together over lunch.

Cullen Allen, AKA Cully of Cully & Sully, with Seán Moynihan, CEO, of Alone and Alone Walk residents.

IRELAND’S favourite soup, Cully & Sully, is turning 20 years old this winter and the beloved brand feels honoured to be growing older.

Cully & Sully began as a humble pie range in 2004 and has grown to become a portfolio of over 20 convenience food products, available in most retailers nationwide and across the waters in the UK. Ongoing customer support When asked about how he feels about Cully & Sully turning 20, founder Colum O’Sullivan, AKA Sully, responds: “Turning 20 is something we aren’t taking for granted. The marketplace is becoming a harder landscape to survive in and we are so appreciative of our customers’ ongoing support. It really comes down to keeping our customers at the heart of what we do. What matters to them and us alike is keeping the quality of our food consistently good. This is not an easy feat when we are dealing with so many fresh, seasonal ingredients. It takes a lot of care and expertise to maintain the standards we’ve set for our range of soups, broths, risottos and pies.”

Seán Moynihan, CEO of Alone, and Cullen Allen, AKA Cully of Cully & Sully.

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Frozen Foods: Chicken with Attitude

Poultry in motion…

The outrageously tasty Chicken with Attitude range continues to move up in the pecking order with hungry consumers.

THE Chicken with Attitude brand has been growing from strength to strength in recent years and the brand has just launched its latest product, new Tempura Real Chicken Dippers.

“This is yet another year when more and more consumers have moved to our premium quality range,” explains Jim Mahon, Commercial Director at Vista Foods, the company behind Chicken with Attitude. “It looks like we are expanding the entire category for frozen cooked chicken. People who previously would not have considered frozen cooked chicken tenders are amazed at how good they taste.”

Five quality variants Vista Foods have a strong track record of supplying the Irish restaurant and bar trade with chicken goujons in recent years and the launch of Chicken with Attitude in 2020 has seen the brand excel in the FMCG trade.

“Busy mums and dads are happy to buy the best quality option for their families,” Jim notes.

There are five variants in the range, including Crispy Golden Tenders, Sizzler Tenders, Southern Style Tenders, Popcorn Chicken Bites, and the latest addition, New Tempura Real Chicken Dippers.

New Tempura Real Chicken Dippers, the latest addition to the popular Chicken with Attitude frozen chicken range.

Popcorn Chicken Bites from Chicken with Attitude, hugely popular, especially with younger consumers.

Crispy Golden Tenders and Southern Style Tenders from Chicken with Attitude.

Outrageously tasty “All of the products come in 500g family size bags. All are created from hand-cut whole chicken fillet with outrageously tasty coatings,” reveals Jim. “They are fully cooked and ready to enjoy in 12 minutes from either the air fryer or oven.”

The Chicken With Attitude range is available in the frozen aisle in leading supermarkets. To order or for more information contact Jim at (087) 7434052 or email info@chickenwithattitude.ie.

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Frozen Foods: Glenhaven

Glenhaven strike Gold!

THIS summer, Glenhaven made Fillet Tenders won Gold, and the a significant leap in frozen food Sizzler Hot & Spicy variant took innovation with the launch Bronze. Handcrafted in Wicklow of their premium retail tier, using natural Irish chicken Glenhaven Gold. Focused on breast fillet and their signature restaurant-quality products, crispy coatings, these awardthe first offerings are the winning products exemplify Glenhaven Gold Irish Chicken Glenhaven's commitment to Fillet Tenders, available in setting new standards in the Original Recipe and Sizzler Hot frozen food industry, while & Spicy. meeting evolving consumer Glenhaven identified a demands for quality and growing consumer trend for convenience. high-quality, locally produced frozen foods catering to the Supporting local Glenhaven Gold Irish Chicken Fillet Tenders, available in rise of in-home dining and Glenhaven believe that having a Original Recipe and Sizzler Hot & Spicy flavours, won gold at “fake-aways”. By collaborating family story behind their brand closely with retailers, they filled the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards. resonates with customers. “Irish a key gap in the frozen food consumers are keen to purchase sector with a focus on Irish provenance and further highlighting Glenhaven’s innovative Irish products and many now recognise approach to frozen convenience without quality. that a lot of other frozen poultry brands are sacrificing quality.

Building on decades of success in the being imported directly from Thailand and foodservice industry, Glenhaven seamlessly China,” says Emma Cahill, Brand Director.

Award winning taste transitioned their expertise to retail with “Our family story serves as a reminder Their dedication to taste and innovation Glenhaven Gold. The foodservice line has of the real people behind our products, was recently recognised at the Irish Quality long been synonymous with premium and of all the Irish jobs and families who Food and Drinks Awards 2024, where quality for restaurants, so expanding into are supported when you purchase locally Glenhaven Gold Original Recipe Chicken the retail market was a natural evolution, produced food products.”

NEW IRELAND’S 1ST SERUM-INFUSED MICELLAR WATER

+5%

SERUM

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Nivea

Skin deep Julie Woodward, Marketing Manager Ireland and Insights, Nivea Ireland, explains the importance of innovation within the skincare category, the differences between the men’s and women’s market, and the new products that Nivea expect to fly from your shelves in the coming weeks.

NIVEA have long been leaders in the skincare industry, with a production line of new innovations and exciting product developments ensuring that consumers continue to engage both with the brand and the wider category. Julie Woodward, Marketing Manager Ireland and Insights, explains how they manage to stay on top of consumer trends, why Irish consumers are different to those in other markets and why Nivea continue to deliver skincare solutions for customers, male and female.

How has the skincare market (male and female) performed over the last year?

“The skincare market in Ireland continues to grow, showing that Irish consumers continue to see skincare as an important part of their daily routines and keeping their skin looking healthy.”

How important is innovation and NPD to the skincare category?

“Innovation and NPD play an important role in the skincare category, generating both interest and excitement. Irish consumers continue to look for products that will benefit their skin. Innovation is not only limited to completely new products, but also continuously refining our existing products to enhance skincare benefits and improve our packaging designs to be more planet-friendly.

“An example of this is the relaunch of our Nivea Body lotion portfolio with an improved formula and sustainable futureready packaging; Nivea Rich Nourishing Body Lotion now contains 100% pure Hyaluronic Acid and a deep nourishing serum, moisturising the skin for up to 72 hours. The inclusion of Hyaluronic Acid has proven to be a game changer for moisture retention. By refining our existing range and innovating in this way, we are providing greater value to our consumers on products they already know and love.

“Further to this, Nivea have introduced future-ready packaging, reinforcing

Julie Woodward, Marketing Manager Ireland and Insights, Nivea Ireland.

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Nivea the tin.

“For men looking for a more advanced skincare product, we launched the Nivea Men Anti-Age Power range with a light serum and SPF 30 moisturiser to reduce dark spots and deep wrinkles. The products include Hyaluronic Acid as well as our patented Luminous630 ingredient for younger looking skin in just two weeks. For those looking for a more entry level or core

New Nivea Men Anti-Age Power is designed to reduce dark spots and deep wrinkles.

Nivea Rich Nourishing Body Lotion now contains 100% pure Hyaluronic Acid and a deep nourishing serum, moisturising the skin for up to 72 hours.

Beiersdorf’s commitment to Care Beyond Skin. The new modern and convenient design is a great step in the brand’s sustainability journey, saving more than 2,500 tons of virgin plastic by 2025, and reducing its carbon emissions impact by approximately 5,000 tons.”

Is innovation as important in the area of male skincare as in the female market?

“Yes and no. Whilst for some men, they want to see more advanced ingredients and product formats that are available in the female skincare market, there is still a high proportion of men that are looking for more accessible products that do as they say on

skincare product, we have our Protect & Care and Sensitive ranges, with a selection of cleansing and moisturising products to meet all their skincare needs.”

How do Nivea manage to continually innovate across skincare?

“We dedicate a significant amount of resources and attention to R&D, combined with a rich understanding of the consumer, to drive innovation with new-to-market products that meet untapped and emerging consumer needs.

“A great example of this is the recent launch of our two new Serum infused micellar waters, Skin Glow & Regenerating.

These new products achieve the perfect balance of cleansing and elevating the skin’s complexion by combining our trusted micellar technology with an innovative formula with amino acid complex and a

Nivea’s two new Serum infused micellar waters, Skin Glow & Regenerating, are a standout advancement for those that seek additional performance in their cleansing products.

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Nivea 5% serum concentration that infuses key trending skincare ingredients such as panthenol, squalene, vitamin C and vitamin E to boost the skin healthy credentials of micellar waters.

“As Ireland’s first serum infused micellar water, this innovation will be a standout advancement for those that seek additional performance in their cleansing products.

These are rolling into stores at the moment and are something we are very excited about.”

What products have you introduced in recent months and how have they been received?

“Nivea have launched a number of fantastic products into the Irish market.

Earlier this year, we launched the Nivea Q10 Targeted Wrinkle Filler Serum that visibly fills wrinkles in just five minutes and provides a long-term anti-ageing effect with continuous use.

The Q10 Power Targeted Wrinkle Filler Serum features a fast-absorbing and highly effective formula, containing an advanced 5% active complex. It is made up of pure Q10 and Bioxifill peptides, which are strings of amino acids that work to build and repair damaged cells.

These highly powerful and skin-friendly anti-age actives penetrate the skin 10 layers deep, in upper epidermal layers, whilst Coenzyme Q10 stimulates the production of collagen to fight even the most stubborn of wrinkles effectively from the inside out.

“We’ve also had some great launches for men including the Nivea Men Sensitive SPF15 Moisturiser, that contains SPF to enable consumers to stay sun safe every day and protect them against harmful UVA rays. Furthermore, we launched the Nivea Men Skin and Stubble Gel Moisturiser, a fantastic gel moisturiser that absorbs quickly on both skin and stubble.

“Each product is an exciting example of innovation within Nivea that caters to the needs of our consumers and these have been successful launches, received well by consumers.”

One important category within skincare is sun protection, where Nivea remain a leader. Can you still innovate within sun-care or is this a mature market?

“Absolutely! There will always be opportunities to innovate in sun protection, whether it be through improved formulas or new formats.

However, the biggest task we take on as a leader is to drive education and awareness around regular usage and reapplication of sun protection throughout the year, not just on a sunny day.

“Recently, we hosted the Nivea Sun Bus in Dundrum Town Centre to educate consumers on the importance of sun safety. We engaged with consumers, offering them suncare advice, while also handing out free Nivea Sun samples.”

Nivea Q10 Power Targeted Wrinkle Filler Serum features a fast-absorbing and highly effective formula, containing an advanced 5% active complex.

Can you tell us about any innovations you have in the pipeline?

“Nothing specific yet but keep your eyes peeled, as you can rest assured that our R&D colleagues are working hard to bring exciting new launches that are answering Irish consumers’ needs.”

“Our success is largely down to keeping a close eye on what consumers are looking for.

In addition, we prioritise continuous reviewing of our portfolio to assess ways of improving on existing product lines, whether that be through ingredients and skin benefits or from a sustainability perspective.”

What differences do you see in the Irish market versus other markets that you operate in?

“There are lots of differences but also many similarities. The channels used and way people shop are probably the biggest differences. Irish consumers tend to do more in-person shopping in retail stores, rather than online. In addition, we have also seen an increased presence in pharmacies, proving their popularity as a key retailer.”

How have Nivea managed to remain at the forefront of the skincare market for so long?

“After decades in the Irish market, our success is largely down to keeping a close eye on what consumers are looking for. In addition, we prioritise continuous reviewing of our portfolio to assess ways of improving on existing product lines, whether that be through ingredients and skin benefits or from a sustainability perspective.”

How do you see the skincare market evolving in the future?

“Consumers will likely continue to want products that give them great skin and that fit in easily and conveniently to their lifestyle and routines.”

48|Retail News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie

Fuels: Flogas

Be winter ready with Flogas Flogas Superser heaters and butane cylinders can help customers to spot heat their homes as the cold weather approaches.

AS the seasons shift and temperatures begin to drop, finding an efficient and costeffective way to heat your home becomes a priority for consumers. One option that stands out for its convenience, portability and affordability is the Flogas Superser heater, paired with a butane gas cylinder.

This dynamic duo offers an ideal solution for spot heating, making it a popular choice for households looking to stay warm without breaking the bank.

warming up specific areas of your home rather than the entire space. This method can be especially beneficial for those who spend most of their time in one or two rooms and want to avoid the high energy costs associated with central heating systems. With spot heating, users can create a cozy environment in their living room, home office or any other frequently used space, while keeping energy consumption low.

The benefits of spot heating Spot heating refers to the practice of

Why choose the Flogas Superser?

The Flogas Superser heater is a standout choice for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s designed with user convenience in mind. Its compact and portable nature allows users to easily move it from room to room, ensuring warmth wherever they need it most.

Whether you’re reading a book in your bedroom or enjoying a movie night in the living room, the Superser can be positioned nearby to provide immediate and effective heat.

Safety is another key consideration, and the Superser does not disappoint. Equipped with a flame failure device and an oxygen depletion system, the heater is designed to shut off automatically if it detects a drop in oxygen levels or if the flame goes out unexpectedly. This gives users peace of mind, knowing that their safety is prioritised.

Butane gas, which powers the Flogas Superser, burns cleanly, producing a significant amount of heat energy with minimal waste.

The economical edge of butane Butane gas, which powers the Flogas Superser, is a highly efficient fuel source.

It burns cleanly, producing a significant amount of heat energy with minimal waste.

This efficiency translates to lower running costs, making it an economical choice for households looking to manage their heating expenses.

Using a Flogas butane cylinder is straightforward and swapping out an

empty cylinder for a full one is a simple process. With butane’s energy efficiency, a single cylinder can provide hours of continuous heat, making it a reliable and budget-friendly option.

The compact and portable Flogas Superser heater is designed with user convenience in mind.

Versatility and practicality One of the greatest advantages of using a Flogas Superser with a butane cylinder is its versatility. Unlike fixed heating systems, this set-up is not tied to a single location.

Whether you’re staying in a guest house, setting up a cozy spot in your garage workshop or adding warmth to a holiday home, the Superser is ready to go wherever you need it.

Additionally, the heater operates independently of electricity, making it a valuable asset during power outages.

It provides a dependable source of heat when users need it most, ensuring that their home remains comfortable, even in challenging conditions.

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

50|Retail Retail News| News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie

Security: Private Security Authority

Securing

your livelihood When deciding on a security service, you must choose one that is licensed by the Private Security Authority or risk prosecution, with fines of up to €4,000.

THE security and protection of your business, staff and customers is important to you. It is equally important that when choosing a security service, you pick one that is licensed by the Private Security Authority (PSA).

The PSA, an agency of the Department of Justice and Equality, is responsible for regulating the private security industry.

Their primary role is to ensure that the public is protected through a standards and qualifications based licensing system. The PSA is mandated, under the Private Security Services Act 2004, to regulate the following industry sectors: • • • •

Door supervisor Enforcement guard Installer of security equipment Locksmith

• • • • •

Private investigator Providers of protected forms of transport Security consultant Security guard Supplier and installers of safes

There are over 33,000 employee and 1,450 contractor licences in circulation.

If you use one of the above services, they must be licensed by the PSA. This includes electricians, property management companies and others providing any of these services.

By using an unlicensed service to carry out security work, you put your business at risk and may invalidate your insurance policy. More importantly, you could face prosecution, with fines of up to €4,000.

Security check on your contractor When buying security services, you should check the following: •

•

•

•

That your provider is licensed. The PSA website, www.psa-gov.ie, provides a register of licensed contractors and individuals. You can also contact the PSA at info@psa-gov.ie.

That they have a tax clearance certificate. All licensed contractors are required to be tax compliant.

That risk assessments, design proposals and other documents are specific to your premises. Never accept generic documents.

That you receive a certificate of completion for all installation and maintenance work carried out on your

Retail News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie|51

Security: Private Security Authority ◊

How many keys have you had made for your business? Do you know where they all are?

If you cannot account for all the keys for your business, you should consider the potential security risk and think about changing your lock. A PSA licensed locksmith can advise you on the best lock for your entrance and install same to ensure maximum security.

CCTV cameras can be an effective tool in the fight against retail crime.

•

premises.

That you receive a compliance statement confirming that the contractor has all relevant insurance in place, that all equipment complies with the machinery directive and that all Health, Safety and Welfare at Work legislation is complied with.

If your provider cannot meet these simple requirements, you should ask yourself what are the consequences for your business if something does not work or if there is an

incident involving an employee or customer.

Security Matters ◊ Choosing the right intruder alarm There are many types of intruder alarm available, each having different characteristics. A PSA licensed intruder alarm installer will undertake a security survey of your premises, evaluate the security needs of your property and help you select the most appropriate intruder alarm for your premises.

The PSA website, www.psa-gov.ie, provides a register of licensed contractors and individuals.

If you cannot account for all the keys for your business, you should consider the potential security risk and think about changing your lock. ◊

How safe is your powered gate?

Automatic gates are powerful machines which can pose a risk to both children and adults alike. Automatic gates must be installed by trained PSA licensed installers and regularly maintained for optimum safety and security.

◊

Selecting an alarm monitoring service Monitored alarms deter burglars.

Consult your PSA licensed alarm installer about the best alarm and monitoring service for your business.

A PSA licensed monitoring centre ensures that somebody will respond quickly to your alarm.

◊

Licensed door staff and security guards.

All door staff and security guards are required to be PSA licensed and to display their licence card when on duty.

52|Retail News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie

Security: Cash Management

Brink’s lead the way in digital retail solutions Efficiency through automation: the gamechanger Automation is a powerful way to optimise cash management. From receiving cash at the till to secure storage in the back office, automation streamlines every step. Brink’s offer a range of solutions that help reduce manual work and improve efficiency.

Brink’s are a global leader in cash management, and have been serving Irish customers for over 50 years.

BRINK’S are global leaders in total cash management, secure logistics, payment solutions, cash-in-transit and ATM services.

Their customers include retailers, financial institutions, government agencies and other commercial operations around the world. Brink’s have been providing Irish businesses with cash management services since 1969. Brink's Cash Services Ireland provides cash management solutions for retail, hospitality and cash processing for financial institutions. Brink’s have continually evolved to stay competitive and successful in the market.

Their cash centre in Dublin is the largest of its kind in Europe, providing unmatched security in all aspects of cash management and trusted by more than Brink’s automated 2,000 customers cash recyclers reduce across Ireland. time spent counting, In addition allowing staff to focus to traditional on customers. cash-in-transit

services, Brink’s are leading the way in digital retail solutions, offering customers enhanced security and eliminating the need for trips to the bank.

Optimising cash management in retail In today’s fast-paced retail environment, efficient cash management is essential for the success of any retail operation. Even with the rise of digital payments, cash remains vital for millions of customers.

Without the right tools and processes, managing cash can quickly become costly and time-consuming.

Brink’s specialise in transforming cash management. Their innovative digital solutions streamline operations, reduce risk, and free up valuable resources, all while protecting your profits.

Cash management involves much more than counting money. Every step collection, storage, transport, reconciliation, and reporting - can expose inefficiencies, errors and even theft. Without a strategy, retailers waste time and money on manual tasks that can be automated.

In today’s market, optimising cash handling is essential to remain competitive.

By improving cash management, retailers can: • Reduce operational costs • Increase employee productivity • Minimise the risk of fraud • Gain better visibility of cash flow • Deliver faster, smoother transactions

How automation can transform your operations: Save time: Automated cash recyclers and tills reduce time spent counting, allowing staff to focus on customers.

Increase accuracy: Automated reconciliation ensures every penny is accounted for, eliminating discrepancies.

Monitor cash flow in real time: Brink’s systems provide instant cash flow data, reducing unnecessary bank trips.

Enhance security: Automated safes and smart deposits protect cash from theft, giving you peace of mind.

Why partner with Brink’s?

Whether you operate a small shop or a large chain, Brink’s scalable solutions help you optimise cash handling with minimal effort. The future of retail cash management lies in smart automation and optimisation. Brink’s bring years of expertise in helping retailers achieve greater efficiency and control over cash handling.

For more information, visit www.brinks.ie.

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54|Retail Retail News News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie

NOffLA Irish Wine Show Star Awards

Irish Wine Show Star Award winners The 2024-2025 Irish Wine show Star Winners have been announced by NOffLA. THE National Off-Licence Association (NOffLA) has awarded its annual Irish Wine Show Star Awards to 55 wines at an event in the Morrison Hotel, Dublin.

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

All the winners at the NOffLA Irish Wine Show Star Awards.

Crippling excise duties At the event, NOffLA expressed the disappointment of its members that Ireland continues to levy the second highest excise on wine across the EU and UK. NOffLA had hoped to see a reduction in excise duty as part of Budget 2025, which would have helped to ease the high cost burdens experienced by many independent off-licences in the last year.

“Unfortunately, Irish drinks sector businesses are burdened with the second highest Conde Valdemar levels of alcohol Finca Alto Cantabria excise in the EU Blanco Viñedo and UK, and excise Singular 2021 from increases from Febvre Wines, a decade ago winner of the Old remain in place World White under and continue to €30 Award and the impact these overall Wine of the small, independent Year 2024/25.

businesses,” noted Cathal McHugh.

NOffLA also raised their concern around the upcoming Alcohol Labelling regulations, which will come into force in May 2026 and require alcohol products to be labelled with cancer and health warnings and alcohol retailers to display health warning notices.

“We are also highly concerned about the planned implementation of the Alcohol Labelling regulations under section 12 of the Public Health (Alcohol) Act 2018, which will cause unnecessary and serious

repercussions for both our members and the wider drinks industry,” said Cathal McHugh. “We, along with other industry groups, will continue to oppose this unilateral decision and campaign for a common EU approach to the introduction of alcohol labelling.”

Winners of this year’s Star Awards In excess of 600 wines were submitted to the Star Award adjudication panel of NOffLA judges and independent wine journalists.

Febvre Wines took home the overall Wine of the Year Award for their Conde Valdemar Finca Alto Cantabria Blanco Viñedo Singular 2021. Pictured are (l-r): Aidan Farrell and Rachel Coogan, Febvre Wines.

Retail News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie|55

NOffLA Irish Wine Show Star Awards Category

Wine Name

Vintage

Company

Old World White under €12

Parlez Vous Sauvignon Blanc

2023

Ampersand Wines

Old World White under €15

Paparuda Reserva Chardonnay Fetească Regală, Cremele Recas

2022

Febvre Wines

Old World White under €20

Casal de Ventozela Alvarinho

2023

Cassidy Wines

Old World White under €30

Conde Valdemar Finca Alto Cantabria Blanco Viñedo Singular

2021

Febvre Wines

Old World Red under €12

Imprudente

2022

Grace Campbell Wines

Old World Red under €15

Domini del Leone Veneto Rosso

NV

Mackenway Wines

Old World Red under €20

Casa Relvas Argonez

2022

Grace Campbell Wines

Old World Red under €30

Herdade De Peso 'Trinca Bolotas' Tinto

2021

Liberty Wines

New World White Under €12

Antares Sauvignon Blanc

2024

Ampersand Wines

New World White Under €15

Nika Tiki Marlborough Sauvignon 2023 Blanc

Grace Campbell Wines

New World White Under €20

Massey Dacta Sauvignon Blanc

2023

Ampersand Wines

New World White Under €30

Framingham Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc

2023

Liberty Wines

New World Red under €12

Doña Paula Estate Malbec

2022

Bibendum Ireland

New World Red under €15

Doña Paula 1100 Malbec

2016

Bibendum Ireland

New World Red under €20

Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz Cabernet

2022

Bibendum Ireland

New World Red under €30

Kaiken Disobedience By Francis Mallman

2020

Liberty Wines

Rose Under €20

Bardolino Chiaretto (Rosé) DOC, Monte del Frà

2023

Febvre Wines

Sparkling Under €30

Crémant de Limoux Rosé Brut, Cuvée Françoise

NV

Febvre Wines

Champagne Under €80

Champagne Prestige Des Sacres - Brut

NV

Ampersand Wines

Orange Wine Under €30

Domaine Lafage 'Taronja'

2022

Mackenway Wines

Non-alcoholic Red Under €15

Santa Rita 120 De Alcoholised Cabernet Sauvignon

2021

Bibendum Ireland

Non-alcoholic White Under €15

Santa Rita 120 De Alcoholised Sauvignon Blanc

2023

Bibendum Ireland

Non-alcoholic Sparkling Under €15 Leitz Zero Sparkling Riesling

NV

Mackenway Wines

Old World Red under €30 RED WINE OF THE YEAR

Herdade De Peso 'Trinca Bolotas' Tinto

2021

Liberty Wines

Old World White under €30 WINE OF THE YEAR

Conde Valdemar Finca Alto Cantabria Blanco Viñedo Singular

2021

Febvre Wines

Shane Boyce, Head of Sales, Liberty Wines, pictured celebrating winning the Red Wine of the Year Award for the 2021 Herdade De Peso 'Trinca Bolotas' Tinto.

Points were awarded on the basis of appearance, smell, taste and value for money criteria, and the winning 55 were selected as the best wines from key suppliers across a number of price categories.

Each of the winning wines will be sold in NOffLA member outlets across the country and will be recognisable by distinctive Award symbols on each bottle.

In the pre-Christmas period, NOffLA members will promote the Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2024-2025 Collection as ideal Christmas gifts, in a variety of special gift packs.

NOffLA was established in 1991 and represents independent specialist off-licences across Ireland, with the sector representing 5,900 jobs in 26 counties. For more information visit www.noffla.ie.

Ampersand celebrates major wins AMPERSAND Wines enjoyed another stellar performance at the Irish Wine Show Awards 24/25. With 12 wines shortlisted, Ampersand secured an impressive nine medals, including four coveted Gold Star Awards, further reinforcing their reputation for importing high-quality wines across a diverse range of categories.

Among the top winners was the Prestige des Sacres Champagne (€50), which claimed Gold for Best Champagne Under €80. Sourced from the historic Champagne region of Reims, this elegant bottle not only delivers on taste but also boasts rich heritage, making it a standout for holiday celebrations and luxury gifting.

Ampersand also saw success with Massey Dacta Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand’s Marlborough region, which was awarded Gold for Best New World White Wine Under €20. With vibrant notes of lemon, lime and passionfruit, this Sauvignon Blanc offers exceptional value at €16, appealing to both wine connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.

Additionally, Parlez Vous Sauvignon Blanc and Antares Sauvignon Blanc each secured Gold in the Best New World and Old World White Wine Under €12 categories. Both wines, priced at just €9.99, combine fresh, crisp flavours with unbeatable value, making them ideal choices for festive gatherings.

As the holiday season approaches, Ampersand Wines offers retailers an award-winning selection that balances quality with affordability, ensuring their customers enjoy premium wines at every price point.

For further information or to place orders, please contact your Ampersand Wines representative or call (01) 4130100.

GOLD STAR AWARD-WINNING WINES

56|Retail News||October 2024|www.retailnews.ie

Employment Law

Managing retirement ages amongst employees A recent Supreme Court ruling has repercussions for mandatory retirement ages in Ireland. Síobhra Rush and Rachel Jones from Lewis Silkin advise on what retail employers need to know.

THE issue of retirement is one which comes up regularly for employers and has come under increasing scrutiny in recent years, particularly in cases before the Workplace Relations Commission and the Labour Court. Many employers still set a contractual retirement age, as is permitted under the Employment Equality Acts, where it can be objectively justified. One challenge often facing employers is understanding how the concept of objective justification is to be applied.

A decision which was handed down by the Supreme Court over the summer has been widely welcomed by employers and provided much needed clarity on whether the setting of a blanket mandatory retirement age can be objectively justified.

In its decision, Seamus Mallon v The Minister for Justice, Ireland and the Attorney General [2024] IESC 20, the Supreme Court upheld the mandatory

retirement age of 70 for sheriffs and, in doing so, confirmed that mandatory retirement ages can be lawful if they are objectively justified (by a legitimate aim, and the means of achieving that aim are necessary and appropriate).

Crucially, the Supreme Court held that no individual assessment was required when setting a retirement age and that such mandatory limits can be set in relation to defined groups based on general probabilities of age, health and competence.

While this case pertains to a retirement age in the public sector, it is still very useful for private sector employers who still set a contractual retirement age.

What is a mandatory retirement age?

Mandatory (or contractual) retirement ages are set according to the terms of the employment contract. In Ireland, employees in the public sector are subject

to a statutory mandatory retirement age, whereas in the private sector, mandatory retirement ages will be discriminatory unless the employer can show that they have a contractual basis which are (a) objectively and reasonably justified by a legitimate aim, and (b) the methods employed to achieve this aim are appropriate and necessary. To meet this criteria, employers typically use the following examples of legitimate aims: a. Health and safety (generally more safety critical occupations); b. Intergenerational fairness (allowing younger workers to progress); c. Preservation of personal and professional dignity by avoiding capability issues with older employees; d. Succession planning; e. Creating a balanced age structure in the workplace.

It’s important to remember that if the only reason for requiring an employee to retire is their age, without having regard to other objective criteria to justify it, then employers are at risk of claims for age discrimination. As such, employers need to justify mandatory retirement age properly.

If not, they could face having to pay compensation to aggrieved employees of up

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Employment Law to two years' remuneration, or they might even have to reinstate the employee, which is what happened in one such case before the Workplace Relations Commission earlier this year.

The Supreme Court decision In the Mallon case, Seamus Mallon, a solicitor and revenue sheriff for Cavan and Monaghan since 1987, contested the mandatory retirement age of 70 which was specified in statute. He argued that the mandatory retirement age of 70 was discriminatory based on age and claimed there were no sufficient objective and reasonable grounds to justify it, making it contrary to the Employment Equality Acts and incompatible with the EU Employment Equality Directive.

He sought to have this age raised, but the Minister for Justice refused, on the basis that most public service roles have a retirement age of 70. It should also be borne in mind that this is also beyond the State pension age of 66.

In the High Court, the State argued that the retirement age was justified

by legitimate aims, such as promoting efficiency in the public service and ensuring a predictable and orderly turnover of staff.

The High Court affirmed that the mandatory retirement age was justified and proportionate. The Court emphasised that the policy served several legitimate aims, including achieving intergenerational fairness and avoiding difficulties within the workforce occasioned by health and capacity issues. Mr Mallon appealed to the Supreme Court, which focused on a number of issues, the most relevant being: a. Whether the statutory provision setting the retirement age aligned with the EU Employment Equality Directive;. b. The criteria for assessing the validity of mandatory retirement ages; c. The appropriateness of setting mandatory age limits based on general factors as opposed to individual characteristics on an individualised assessment.

The Supreme Court recognised several legitimate reasons for having mandatory

retirement ages, including: a. Promoting the employment of younger workers; b. Promoting the access of young people to the professions; c. Balancing workforce age structures; d. Avoiding possible disputes over employees’ fitness to work beyond a certain age; e. Avoiding employers having to dismiss employees on the ground that they are no longer capable of working, which may be humiliating for the employee; f. Standardising retirement ages.

The Supreme Court concluded that the relevant statutory provision setting the retirement age pursued legitimate aims, such as effective succession planning and maintaining intergenerational fairness.

It found the mandatory retirement age of 70 appropriate and necessary, and rejected the proposal that there was a need for individual assessments in setting that age. The Court emphasised that requiring individual assessments would, in fact, undermine the consistency

Where an employee makes a request to continue working beyond the mandatory contractual retirement age, employers are expected to handle these requests thoughtfully and based on clear, objective criteria.

58|Retail News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie

Employment Law

WRC’s Code of Practice on Longer Working advises employers to notify employees about their upcoming retirement six to 12 months in advance and suggests they offer support like pre-retirement courses, flexible working options and counselling to help with the transition.

and predictability provided by a general retirement age rule and substantially negate the benefit of having such a rule in the first place.

A departure from individual assessments It was in the 2008 case of Donnellan v Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform and Others [2008] IEHC 467, that it was suggested that individual assessments would be preferred over blanket age rules where possible. There had been a growing number of age discrimination cases before the WRC since Donnellan, where the WRC emphasised the importance of considering mandatory retirement on an individual basis in determining whether the imposition of the mandatory retirement age was proportionate.

One such case of note from earlier this year was Thomas Doolin v Eir Business Eircom Limited [ADJ-00045261], where the complainant’s request to continue working beyond the company’s mandatory retirement age was rejected by his employer. Despite both parties acknowledging the existence of a companywide retirement age which had been communicated through the retirement policy, the complainant challenged his compulsory retirement under the

company's retirement policy. The objective justification relied upon by the employer was intergenerational fairness among staff and safeguarding of career pathways. The WRC held that a retirement age should be individually assessed on a case-by-case basis and that the objective justification relied upon by the company did not apply to the complainant who, as a junior staff member, would not impede others’ career progression. The complainant was ultimately reinstated into his position, which was a particularly stark reminder to employers of the difficulties in justifying a mandatory retirement age.

What is significant about the Supreme Court decision in Mallon is that it has now clarified that an employer is not, in fact, required to justify the application of a general retirement age to an individual employee. The Supreme Court pointed out that recent CJEU rulings did not support this approach and that avoiding individual assessments can be a legitimate way to prevent disputes and maintain dignity, marking a notable shift from the Donnellan approach.

The decision emphasises that a mandatory retirement age is acceptable if the policy is justified by legitimate aims and is applied proportionately.

What does this decision mean for retail employers?

Going forward, this means that employers can set a mandatory retirement age without needing to conduct individual assessments for each employee. As long as the retirement age is justified by legitimate aims, it will be considered lawful.

This simplifies the process for employers and provides clear, predictable rules for employees about when they will retire.

However, it also places an onus on employers to ensure their retirement policies are fair, justified and proportionately applied. It also does not remove the requirement to consult individual employees who are approaching their retirement age to determine their plans in accordance with the WRC’s Code of Practice on Longer Working (the Code).

What happens if an employee requests to work beyond the mandatory retirement age?

Where an employee makes a request to work beyond the mandatory retirement age, retail employers still need to refer to the Code. The Code advises employers to notify employees about their upcoming retirement six to 12 months in advance and suggests they offer support like pre-retirement courses, flexible working

Retail News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie|59

Employment Law options and counselling to help with the transition.

Where an employee makes a request to continue working beyond the mandatory contractual retirement age, employers are expected to handle these requests thoughtfully and based on clear, objective criteria.

Any employee seeking to work beyond their retirement date should make the request in writing at least three months before the intended retirement date to enable an appropriate consultation process to be undertaken.

If the employer agrees to extend the employee's work period with a fixedterm contract, the contract's duration and legal basis should be clearly outlined. If the employee’s request is denied, the employer should meet with the employee to explain the decision, provide the reasons for refusal and offer a right to appeal.

While the Code isn’t legally binding, it is likely to have evidential value in any cases dealing with compulsory retirement and failure to adhere to it will cause difficulties when defending claims by employees for unfair and/or discriminatory compulsory retirement.

Other developments In 2024, a number of measures have been introduced, or plans to introduce them have been announced, by the Government in response to recommendations from the Pension Commission. These include maintaining the State Pension age at 66 but introducing a new flexible pension age model.

Since January 1, 2024, employees now have the option to continue working up until the age of 70 and defer claiming the State Pension in return for a higher pension rate at the later age. This change also has the effect of allowing people to improve their social insurance record and potentially increase their pension rate when they retire, along with allowing those who started working later in life to make additional contributions to qualify for a pension.

While there is no corresponding obligation on employers to allow employees to continue working up to the age of 70, there will no doubt be an increase in the number of requests from employees to do so. Many retail employers, particularly those who still have a mandatory contractual retirement age, may find this challenging.

The Government also announced plans to introduce legislation allowing employees to work until the State pension age, if they wish. The proposed legislation aims to bridge

the gap between contractual retirement ages and the State pension by providing that, in general, an employer cannot set a compulsory retirement age below the State pension age if the employee does not consent to retire. This element of consent reflects the fact that many employees may still want to retire at the contractual retirement age. While only at the heads of bill stage, retail employers will need to review their retirement ages once this is eventually implemented.

For further information, please contact one of our team at Lewis Silkin.

About the authors FOR further information on this topic please contact Síobhra Rush, Partner (Siobhra.Rush@lewissilkin. com) or Rachel Jones, Associate, (Rachel.Jones@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.

Intergenerational fairness, allowing younger workers to progress, is regularly cited as a reason for mandatory retirement ages.

60|Retail News|October 2024|www.retailnews.ie

Drinks News Hennessy reveal limited Founder’s Edition bottle

Heineken Collabs: unleashing creativity

HENNESSY have unveiled the iconic Founder’s Edition bottle, created by Irish artists Maser and Conor Harrington to celebrate 300 years since the birth of company founder, Richard Hennessy. The striking design embodies the enduring influence of the Corkonian who emigrated to Cognac and created the globally iconic brand. Both artists’ work resonates perfectly with the Hennessy VS brand’ character: vibrant, artistic and street! This collaboration is a significant investment and one with global significance. It celebrates the house Richard Hennessy founded, crafting the very best cognac in the world, steeped in Irish legacy.

The original artwork will hold pride of place upon the walls of Killavullen, the Cork home of Richard Hennessy, after the official launch in Dublin in October.

HEINEKEN have launched ‘Heineken Collabs’, a new campaign which sees the brand partner with some of Ireland's most creative and culturally rich spots around the country; where innovation, community, craft and good times are central. The three cultural partners teaming up with Heineken as part of Heineken Collabs tap into different types of craft, spread across three different cities around Ireland, with their own unique brand identity and subculture: Nine Crows, a fashion forward, sustainable vintage clothes store with landmark stores on Cork’s Church Street and in Dublin's Temple Bar; Square Coffee specialises in local micro roast coffee and has three stores across Ireland; Heartbreak Social Club is a tattoo and piercing parlour, barber and jeweller home to ‘Chained’ permanent jewellers, ‘The Barbershop’ and ‘The Coffee Shop’, on Drury Street in Dublin. Each partner, in collaboration with Heineken, has created a limited edition bottle design that represents both brands in an authentic and innovative way, with 300 Heineken bottles of each design produced.

Kirker Greer Spirits expand in Tesco Ireland

BELFAST-based Kirker Greer Spirits are thrilled to announce a new partnership with Tesco Ireland, which will see two of their premium gin brands, Jawbox Irish Gin and Ukiyo Japanese Gins, available in Tesco stores nationwide. Jawbox Small Batch Gin, renowned for its authentic heritage and unique flavour profile, will appeal to consumers seeking provenance and quality in their spirits. Meanwhile, the Ukiyo Japanese Gins, with their delicate floral notes and sophisticated taste, will offer Tesco customers a distinctive and innovative drinking experience. “Ireland is a key market for our business and our brands, so securing a listing with Tesco Ireland is a significant benchmark in our expansion plans,” noted Ryan McFarland, Chief Commercial & Strategy Officer, Kirker Greer Spirits.

Cider exports increase as domestic sales hold

WHILE overall cider sales at home remained stable last year, they were still nearly 12% below pre-pandemic levels, according to the most recent report from Drinks Ireland | Cider. Irish cider’s share of the alcohol market decreased from 6.6% to 6.2% and per capita consumption fell by 3%, reflecting a broader trend in Ireland, where alcohol consumption has decreased by nearly one-third over the past two decades. In contrast, according to international research, the emerging non-alcoholic cider segment is expected to grow by 5% over the next five years, reflecting shifting consumer preferences toward non-alcoholic options. Irish cider exports grew by 5%, reaching almost €77 million, with the UK accounting for 90% of these exports.

Teeling release third bottling of Rising Reserve

TEELING have released the third bottling of Rising Reserve, their limited edition, super premium series of unique 21-Year-Old Irish Single Malts. The third edition of the Rising Reserve series consists of 21-Year-Old Single Malt that was initially aged in ex-Bourbon casks for over 18 years, before being finished in high quality Ruby Port casks for three years. This dual maturation, and in particular long finishing time in the Ruby Port casks, imparts distinctive dark fruit notes, milk chocolate and orchard fruit, married with brown sugar and a soft oak spice. Limited to just 6,000 bottles, the resulting Single Malt is then bottled at 46% with no chill filtration.

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What’s New NEW TAYTO CORNADOS MR. Tayto has been working hard, crafting yet another irresistible treat for snack lovers everywhere, Tayto Cornados. This crunchy, corn-based snack comes in two mouth-watering flavours: Nacho Cheese and Zingy Prawn Cocktail flavours. With its unique twisted, tornado-like shape, Cornados delivers a satisfying crunch that maximises the bold flavour in every bite. Perfect for sharing, Tayto Cornados are an ideal choice for cosy nights on the couch or chilling with friends. Don’t just snack, get caught up in a flavour tornado, take your tastebuds on an unforgettable journey. Tayto Cornados, a whirlwind of flavour and crunch! Tayto Cornados are available in 110g sharing bags.

O’DONNELL’S LAUNCH NEW CRINKLE CUT PRAWN COCKTAIL FURROWS O’DONNELL’S, the makers of Ireland’s best-selling handcooked crisp, are introducing the latest the latest addition to the Crinkle Cut Furrows family, Classic Prawn Cocktail Flavour.

“We are thrilled to introduce the newest member of the Crinkle Cut Furrows range,” said Ed and Kate O’Donnell, the siblings behind the brand. “The Classic Prawn Cocktail flavour combines sweet and savoury flavours perfectly, resulting in a true taste sensation. We are so excited for our customers to embark on this culinary journey with us; we hope they love it as much as we do.” O’Donnell’s Crinkle Cut Furrows are now available in five mouth-watering flavours: Ballymaloe Relish & Cheddar Cheese, Sour Cream & Onion, Mature Cheddar & Red Onion, Irish Cider Vinegar & Sea Salt, and Classic Prawn Cocktail.

KITKAT RELAUNCHES COOKIES AND CREAM TWO FINGER BAR KITKAT is relaunching KitKat Two Finger Cookies and Cream biscuit bar, a two-toned bar covered with smooth cookies & cream flavoured milk chocolate and white coating. “We are so excited to re-introduce this family favourite flavour to the KitKat range,” noted Maria McKenna, Confectionery Marketing Manager, Nestlé Ireland. “Loved by households, the great taste of cookies and cream makes for the perfect break to be enjoyed by yourself or with your family in the comfort of your home. KitKat is constantly looking for new and innovative flavours to bring to shop shelves, and we hope this fantastic addition to the range will excite our fans.” The household favourite flavour comes in a pack of nine bars and all packaging can be recycled with plastic bags, as KitKat packaging is made up of 75% recycled plastic.

B&H: ‘NOTHING LESS THAN GOLD WILL DO’ BENSON & Hedges continues to set the standard in Ireland with exceptional quality in every stick, thanks to a genuine commitment to perfecting the art of tobacco. For over 150 years, B&H’s unwavering dedication to delivering a premium smoking experience has become synonymous with the brand's iconic values, fostering loyalty among adult smokers. This loyalty has made B&H Gold KS 20s the top-selling cigarette SKU in Ireland since 1990 (correct at time of printing, NIQ Scan Track, INC, SOM, MAT, September 8, 2024). Remember, B&H offers uncompromising quality across its entire portfolio, from B&H Select to Gold. Stay well-stocked with B&H products to meet consumer expectations. Benson & Hedges never settles for second best, because nothing less than gold will do!

PRINGLES REVEAL PAPER-BASED TUBE A MORE eco-friendly Pringles tube, which is 90% paper, has been launched to allow snackers to more easily pop the tube of their favourite crisps in with their household recycling. Now available nationwide, the paper-based tubes will replace the iconic Pringles can, originally launched in the 1960s, which had a steel base. The paper-based tube has been rigorously tested by the company’s packaging experts to make sure it protects the iconic saddle-shaped crisps and keeps them fresh for 15 months, just like the original can. “We’ve worked hard to develop and test a more recyclable Pringles paper-based tube and we made significant investment in new technology to enable our factories to produce it,” said Ann Rose Eng, Senior Brand Activation Manager, Pringles Ireland. “Not only is it widely recyclable but it keeps the chips fresh and tasty and protects them from breaking, which helps to reduce food waste.”

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Forecourt Focus: News

Certa first to open 10 HVO sites as demand rises CERTA, which is part of DCC plc, have become the first fuel operator in Ireland to make HVO available at 10 of their forecourts, as demand for the renewable fuel continues to rise among motorists nationwide.

One in five of Certa’s network of 49 unmanned, pay@pump forecourts now offers HVO alongside other fuels, as Certa continues to make the biofuel more widely available to motorists seeking a renewable alternative to diesel.

Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) is produced from waste plant matter and can be used as a direct replacement for diesel, without any need for vehicle or engine modifications, to help motorists lower their carbon emissions by up to 90%.

Last November, Certa began the process of upgrading their network to make HVO available alongside diesel and unleaded petrol and they have achieved the milestone of opening their 10th HVO site, after introducing HVO pumps at their forecourt in Corofin, Co. Clare.

HVO is now available at the Certa forecourts in Liffey Valley, Dundrum, Clarehall and Finglas (Clearwater) in Dublin, Lee Tunnel in Cork, Ballyhaunis in Mayo, Maynooth in Kildare, Trim in Meath, Moyne in Longford and Corofin in Clare.

Certa has provided the new HVO pumps alongside diesel and petrol pumps and the fuel is distinguished through the use of a pink nozzle to stand out from the traditional black diesel and green petrol nozzles.

“Certa are leading the way in making HVO more widely available to motorists across Ireland,” said Orla Stevens, Managing Director, Certa Ireland. “Our goal is to make it easy for

motorists to transition to HVO as a renewable alternative to diesel to help them to lower their carbon emissions.

“Our success in upgrading our network to offer HVO at 10 sites is an important milestone for Certa and our customers. The demand for HVO has grown as we have opened each new site, and our plan is to complete the upgrading of our entire network into next year as we continue our journey towards a net-zero future.”

Certa have also helped a growing number of businesses and events to decarbonise and to transition to HVO as a renewable fuel, including Amazon Web Services (AWS), John Sisk & Son Ltd, Dublin Airport, Dublin Port, The National Ploughing Championship, the Irish Open and Bloom.

Certa have already transitioned their entire fleet of 100 delivery vehicles from diesel to HVO in line with the company’s commitment to reduce its carbon emissions to net zero by 2050 or sooner. They are also installing Solar PV panels across their network to enable Certa forecourts to generate their own power from solar energy.

Certa were one of the first HVO suppliers in Ireland to be awarded International Sustainability Carbon Certification (ISCC), which provides full transparency and traceability throughout the supply chain. This certification enables Certa to create and assign Proof of Sustainability (POS) certification to the businesses that it supplies with HVO. Certa’s work to make HVO more accessible and more widely available to motorists and businesses was also recognised when it received the prestigious Green Award at the 2024 UK and Ireland Fuel Distributors (UKIFDA) Awards.

Pictured are Laura Byrne, Head of Sustainable Fuels, and Grace Cunningham, Interim Head of Retail Unmanned at Certa.

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Forecourt Focus: News

Circle K announce Kits for Clubs Campaign to support grassroots football CIRCLE K, who are title sponsors of the FAI Club Mark programme, have launched Kits for Clubs, a competition for grassroots clubs across the country to win new football kits for their teams.

Between now and May 2025, Circle K Kits for Clubs will see 18 lucky clubs each win four brand new sets of Circle K branded kit in their club colours, worth €30,000. At the end of the competition,

Ireland Men’s and Women's senior football managers Heimir Halgrímsson and Eileen Gleeson, pictured with Circle K Managing Director, Ciara Foxton, and kids, Indie Dixon and Leo Brennan, at the launch of the Circle K Kits for Clubs Campaign.

one lucky club will win a meet-and-greet with the players at a men’s national team training session.

This is the latest grassroots football initiative from Circle K, who last year gave €100,000 to clubs across the country as part of their Circle K Grassroots Giveaway. Circle K Kits for Clubs is open to all clubs who are Circle K FAI Club Mark accredited. The Circle K FAI Club Mark programme aims to provide clubs with a road map to good governance, reward clubs for achieving and maintaining high standards, recognise clubs for their commitment and achievements, and help grow football in communities across the country.

Kits for Clubs will run in three-week cycles on six regional radio stations across the country (Galway Bay FM, Live 95FM, FM104, Cork’s 96FM, WLRFM and LMFM) between now and May 2025, with further promotion of the competition taking place at Circle K sites and on social media in each region, giving clubs in all 26 counties the opportunity to enter and win.

“Circle K is very proud to play a role in supporting grassroots football through our partnership with the FAI,” said Ciara Foxton, Managing Director of Circle K Ireland. “Following on from the huge success of our Grassroots Giveaway initiative last year, we’re very excited to announce Circle K Kits for Clubs. Not only will it offer clubs the chance to win fabulous new kits, but one lucky club will win the opportunity to watch a training session and meet with the Irish men’s national team.”

Ger McDermott, FAI Grassroots Director, added, “The pride and enjoyment that pulling on your club jersey brings is the most important part of a player's experience in our game. This great initiative from Circle K will help clubs to bring that to our game.

With over 70% of our clubs on the journey to achieving their Club Mark Award, the programme continues to grow, thanks to the partnership with Circle K.”

Castrol returns to Irish motorsport after 25 years CASTROL has announced its return to Irish motorsport after 25 years, as the new title sponsor of Turn 1 at the Mondello Park International Race Circuit in county Kildare. Under the sponsorship, the iconic Turn 1 at Mondello Park, will be renamed and branded as ‘Castrol Corner’. The sponsorship is part of a new strategy to build and grow the Castrol brand in Ireland following the appointment of Certa, part of DCC plc, as Castrol’s sole country partner for Ireland and Northern Ireland.

“Castrol was one of the first brands to sponsor Mondello Park when it opened in 1968, a sponsorship that endured for over 30 years,” said Niamh Gaffney, Retail Sales and Marketing Manager with Certa. “The new sponsorship was therefore a natural fit for Castrol. We are thrilled to return to Irish motorsports as part of our wider strategy to build and grow the Castrol brand in Ireland.”

Pictured at ‘Castrol Corner’ at Mondello Park are Niamh Gaffney, Retail Sales and Marketing Manager, Certa, and Roddy Greene, Managing Director at Mondello Park.

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Shelf Life SUPERVALU pumpkin supplier Martin Gaffney pictured at Donnelly’s Fresh Produce, Lusk, Co. Dublin. Since 1979, Donnelly Fresh Produce has supplied SuperValu with high-quality, Bord Bia-approved fruit and vegetables.

Farming in North Dublin, Donnelly Fresh Produce offers a variety of pumpkins, including the vibrant orange Boomer, Flynn, and Harvest Moon varieties, as well as the distinctive white Ghost Pumpkin, also known as the albino or snowball pumpkin. These pumpkins are perfect for carving and decorating this Halloween. The expected sales volume for this October is 97,000, showcasing the ongoing success of this partnership and Donnelly Fresh Produce’s dedication to sustainable, Irish-grown produce.

SLICEY, the world’s first air fryer pizza slice, is changing the snacking game as it hits supermarket shelves across Ireland. The exciting new product is bringing the delicious taste of Sicily to our shores to be enjoyed from the comfort of your own home, in a matter of minutes. Slicey is the first pizza in the world that has been specifically created to cook perfectly in an air fryer. The sourdough base is double fermented at two different temperatures to ensure the texture cooks evenly to deliver absolute perfection in every bite, while the pizza is conveniently shaped to slot into an air fryer basket. With Slicey, consumers simply pop their preferred flavour (Margherita, Pepperoni or Diavola) into the air fryer and enjoy restaurant quality pizza in just eight minutes.

ORNUA and the National Dairy Council have announced the Kennedy farm from Cahir, Co. Tipperary, supplying Dairygold Co-operative, as the overall winners of the 2024 NDC & Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards.

The prestigious annual awards programme, now in its 15th year, saw 11 farming families from six counties and 11 dairy co-operatives, celebrated for excellence in milk production and sustainable dairying at a special ceremony hosted at Lyrath Estate Hotel, Co Kilkenny. Aidan and Derval Kennedy, along with their children, Nickolas and Galina, and farm team, were recognised for demonstrating the highest standards of excellence in dairy farming and were presented with the 2024 NDC & Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards perpetual cup.

A DONEGAL fishing company, McBride Fishing, has been named Seafood Exporter of the Year at this year’s Irish Exporters Association (IEA) Export Industry Awards. The Downings-based family-run business is focused on year-round supply of premium live and processed crab to European and other international markets. Sponsored by Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), Ireland’s Seafood Development Agency, the award recognises the achievements of seafood exporters with a focus on innovative product development or market access initiatives. Pictured are Peter and Luke McBride, McBride Fishing Co. Ltd, Downings, Co. Donegal.

FRIDAY, October 4, 2024, marked Bord Bia’s annual National Potato Day celebration, as consumers were encouraged to revisit traditional Irish potato recipes in a modern way. New Bord Bia recipes encouraged people to use an air fryer and tasty ingredient combinations sure to impress friends and family. Bord Bia once again teamed up with the King and Queen of air fryer cooking in Ireland, Karol and Gina Daly, who spent time in The Boxty House restaurant in Temple Bar, Dublin, under the expert guidance of owner and chef, Pádraic Óg Gallagher, to learn how to cook classic potato recipes using an air fryer, and to shine a light on the traditional recipes that have stood the test of time. See www.instagram.com/bordbia for more information.

HUEL, the leading provider of nutritionally complete food, has launched in Ireland. Huel (Human + Fuel) is a nutritionally complete food, which contains a balance of 27 essential vitamins and minerals, protein, essential fats, carbs, fibre and phytonutrients in a single product. Huel is made from plantbased sustainable ingredients like oats, peas, rice, flaxseed, coconut and sunflower, contains no lactose and is gluten-free, making it suitable for most to enjoy. Each Huel bottle contains 400 calories of high-quality complex carbohydrates that release energy slowly and helps keep you full and your digestive system healthy. Huel Ready-to-drink has a deliciously smooth texture, and it currently comes in five flavours: Chocolate, Vanilla, Berry, Banana, Iced Coffee Caramel.

A FAMILY- run store in Mountnugent, Co. Cavan, was revealed as winning location of the €1 million Daily Million win on September 9! Shop owner Annette Smith was delighted to hear that her shop sold the life-changing ticket: “We’re a family-run shop here in the village and this actually marks the biggest win that our store has ever had so it’s huge news all round. We are just over the moon for the winner, and we can’t wait for the good news to spread as we are hoping the winner comes forward to claim their prize soon. Here’s hoping for more calls from the National Lottery in the future!”

Pictured celebrating the win are Imelda Finlay, Natasha Smith, Caroline Mullen, Bridget Reihill, Eithne Eiffe, and Anetta Smith (store owner), with David Woods from the National Lottery.

CORK’S Mahon Point Shopping Centre was recognised at the Business Energy Achievement Awards recently, where it won the Best Energy Achievement in Retail award. This award acknowledges Mahon Point's ongoing commitment to reducing energy consumption, lowering carbon dioxide emissions, and adopting forward-thinking environmental strategies. By transitioning to renewable energy resources and implementing a zero-waste-to-landfill policy, Mahon Point has successfully reduced its environmental footprint, proving that retail businesses can adopt sustainable practices while maintaining operational excellence.

Breakfast just got better! The beloved Superquinn sausage takes centre stage in Centra’s new must-try breakfast offering, The Egg Muffin, available now in selected stores nationwide for just €4 each. The Superquinn sausage and Egg Muffin is the first time the Superquinn sausage has been turned into a patty, and makes a delectable addition to Centra’s already renowned deli offering. To celebrate the launch, Centra has collaborated with content creator Mick ‘The Muffin Man’ Medeiros (pictured), who took to the streets of Dublin to get first handreactions from the public.

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