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Contents News
Awards season in full swing WELCOME to the October edition of Retail News , packed with the latest insights, trends and innovations in the retail industry. We report on reaction to Budget 2027 (Page 4) from the retail trade, with many commentators feeling that retail’s voice has not been listened to at the highest levels of Government. In a wide-ranging interview, retiring RGDATA Director General Tara Buckley and incoming head of the organisation, Roseanne Regan, discuss the feeling amongst independent grocers in the wake of the Budget (Page 12), as well as the other major challenges facing the sector going forward. Also inside, we reveal the big winners at Ireland’s Food & Drink Quality Awards (Page 24), showcasing some of the worthy winners, while we also report from the Gala Retail (Page 20) and the Inver (Page 34) conferences, which also saw the presentation of both groups’ annual awards. Indeed, awards season is in full swing, with the NOffLA Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2026 (Page 38) and the Irish Cheese Awards (Page 48), also covered. As the retail trade gears up for its busiest time of the year, next month’s Retail News will feature our annual Christmas Stocking guide – watch this space! Brian Clark Advertising & Marketing Director Retail News
24 Ireland’s Quality Food & Drink
2
Newspaper delivery surcharge imposed on retailers.
3
National Organic Award winners revealed.
4
Mixed reaction to Budget 2027.
5
Teagasc hosts food waste and circular economy event.
6
Grocery sales up 5.8% for back-toschool season; RGDATA receives confirmation of 6% commission for National Lottery games.
7
LEAD Network Ireland chapter announces People of the Year winners; Wages expected to increase by 3.1% in 2027: Ibec.
12 Retail News Interview
12
15 Sellotape
Sellotape is the unsung hero of Christmas.
20 Gala Retail Conference 2026
Gala Retail recently held their Retail Conference in the Great Southern Hotel, Killarney, which also hosted the presentation of the Gala Excellence Awards.
34 Inver Retail Conference &
Awards
Inver recently celebrated their partners at the Inver 2026 Retail Conference & Awards, which highlighted the exceptional standards across the forecourt network.
38 Irish Wine Show Star Awards
2026
A Spanish rioja and Chilean pinot noir were the overall winners at the Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2026.
42 Protein Products: Grenade
Grenade have launched new a soft centred protein bar range that tastes so good, consumers won’t believe it’s protein.
44 Great Taste Awards
A sour cream brand from Donegal has been announced as the winner of the Great Taste Golden Fork Award from Ireland.
48 Irish Cheese Awards
Four major Irish retailers were amongst the big winners at the CÁIS 2026 Irish Cheese Awards.
50 Employment Law
A practical overview of what retailers need to do to ensure that they are meeting their obligations under immigration and employment law.
Regulars & Reports @retailnews1
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31 Red Bull
Red Bull has launched new limited edition Red Bull Winter Edition: Pistachio & Berries.
Tara Buckley is retiring after 22 years as RGDATA Director General. Together with incoming DG, Roseanne Regan, they explain why Ireland’s independent grocers are the envy of the world, while remaining cognisant of the challenges ahead and the role of RGDATA in meeting them.
Retail News
Awards 2026
The winners of the 2026 Ireland’s Quality Food & Drink Awards were announced at a gala event in the Mansion House recently.
Milly Burke Cunningham
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8
Industry News
19
Retail Ireland: Monthly Update
32
Forecourt Focus: News
46
Tobacco & Nicotine Products
54
Drinks News
56
What’s New
2|Retail News|October 2026|www.retailnews.ie
News
Newspaper delivery surcharge retailers NEWSPREAD have imposed a temporary 5.5% fuel surcharge on their fee to retailers for delivering newspapers and magazines. In an email to retailers, the distributor apportioned their surcharge on Carriage Service Charges (CSC) to the rise in fuel prices due to the Iran conflict. “Over the past number of weeks, we have absorbed these additional costs in order to avoid passing any costs on to our customers,” the distributor wrote. “However, as prices continue to escalate, it is simply not possible to continue to do this.” The surcharge, which came into effect from October 4, 2026, appears as a separate charge on retailer invoices. “The full value of this increase will go directly to our drivers,” wrote Newspread. At a time of increased energy and wage costs, some retailers believe they have been left to soak up the cost. Roseanne Regan, RGDATA’s new Director General, described the surcharge as self-defeating: “Independent retailers are already facing significant cost pressures and cannot continue to absorb additional charges.” Valerie Boggan, proprietor of Boggan’s Londis in Rosslare in Co. Wexford, described the surcharge as “grossly” unfair. “How am I going to reclaim this 5.5% back? I can't because it's a direct cost on the retailer. Newspapers are already assigned an RRP.” Newspapers, agreed Regan, are a fixed-price product, “so retailers cannot simply pass an additional distribution charge on to customers. Instead, it adds directly to the cost of selling newspapers at a time when print sales are already under significant pressure.” Newspread calculates its CSC around a
Vincent Jennings, CEO, CSNA.
tiered banding system based on the value of the retailer’s weekly inventory order. Retailers fall into nine different bands, calculated from recent weeks of sales. CSC for retailers in seasonal areas – small seaside towns, for example – is calculated over a wider period. If a retailer is paying a lower band of €75 a week for deliveries, the 5.5% surcharge will add an extra €4.12 to overheads per week. Vincent Jennings, CEO of CSNA, described the temporary 5.5% fuel surcharge as “unwelcome” and takes issue with the notion of the carriage charge. “CSNA will never, ever accept the concept and the principle of a delivery charge. You have to question its long-term viability. With diminishing newspaper sales, [newsagents are] carrying out an important part of the publisher's requirement that the paper is available in shops around the country. When there is a temporary additional cost like this, publishers should consider improving or increasing the margin [for retailers] to offset that.” In March 2026, following the outbreak of war in Iran and subsequent rising fuel prices, Newspread introduced a 4.5% surcharge on CSC. In a letter issued to retailers that month, the distributor wrote: “We are committed to removing it when the average price of diesel stabilises for a period of 3 weeks at less than €1.98 per litre, which is still 15% higher than the February average.” After maintaining the surcharge for a few months, Newspread removed it. The distributor’s October note includes a similar pledge: “As demonstrated earlier this year, [the surcharge] will be
removed once the price of diesel returns to more sustainable levels.” Newspread did not respond to a query from Retail News about what baseline fuel price will prompt them to repeal the surcharge this time, but Jennings said Newspread informed CSNA it will again be €1.98 per litre or below. As of October 10, prices remained over €2. Jennings gives Newspread credit for being “true to their word. Some suppliers of foodstuffs and services increase their prices and don't give any explanation. In this instance, because the publishers have not changed Roseanne Regan, Director the price of General, RGDATA. the product, and Newspread need to pay their carriers, you're seeing it in a more transparent fashion.” For some retailers, transparency means little. Valerie Boggan recently spoke to another Londis retailer “who owns a substantial shop in north Dublin and he said that, as of two week’s time, he is not selling magazines. So his magazines will be completely gone, which is very unusual for him because he inherited the shop from his father.” Boggan stopped dealing with
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News
imposed on EM News (another distributor of print media products around Ireland) earlier in 2026 to save costs and avoid two delivery charges. “Newspread risks making newspapers increasingly unattractive for retailers to sell and pricing newspapers out of the market,” noted RGDATA’s Roseanne Regan. “A significant number of retailers have decided to stop selling newspapers due to increased costs, declining sales, and the additional administrative burden around returns. If more retailers individually decide it is no longer worthwhile stocking newspapers, that will only further erode print sales.” Boggan now gives consideration to her stock of publications such as Ireland's Own and the RTE Guide. “‘How many am I actually selling?’ Is it worth it? Newspapers have been part of the business from the very beginning. It would be like giving up bread. How could we possibly give up bread? That's the level newspapers are at in a lot of shops.” Vincent Jennings does not recommend CSNA members get rid of or diminish the category. “I understand if people choose to go to one distributor rather than both, but I don't understand Valerie Boggan, proprietor of Boggan’s somebody reducing the overall product or not making it available. Londis in Rosslare in Co. Wexford. The customer loses out, but the shop loses out as well because there are still people who are very fond of newspapers - particularly weekend papers, regional papers or specialist ones like the Racing Post. If you don't have them in a shop, a customer will go elsewhere or just go digital.” In an age of social media misinformation, the position of newspapers as a cornerstone of democracy is more important than ever before. Should there be some form of government intervention to assist retailers around the sale of print media? Vincent Jennings believes so. He also believes that publishers need to take more responsibility. “Publishers should not be blind to the fact they need to protect the sources of availability for their products, rather than ignoring them and thinking ‘We have a distributor - that's their problem.’ It's not. It's everyone's problem,” he insists. “It is industry's problem. It is the retailer's problem. It is the distributor's problem. It's the carrier's problem and it's the publisher's problem.” RGDATA said they received no communication from Newspread about the surcharge and will be urging the distributor to reconsider the fee.
National Organic Award winners revealed BORD Bia, in association with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, recently announced the winners of the National Organic Awards 2026 at a ceremony held in the Bord Bia Global Hub, Karin and Jörg Müller, Co-Founders of Dublin. Solaris Botanicals, winners of Best Irish The National Organic Brand Award for their Solaris Organic Awards celebrate excellence, Botanicals – Loose Leaf Tea. innovation and leadership across Ireland's organic food and farming sector and recognise the producers, farmers, retailers, exporters and food businesses helping to drive the continued growth of organic production in Ireland. This year's awards come at a time of strong momentum for the sector. Research from Bord Bia shows that the Irish market for organic produce has experienced significant growth in recent years, with organic market value increasing by 12.5% in 2025 compared with 2024. "The National Organic Awards provide an important opportunity to recognise the excellence, innovation and commitment demonstrated across Ireland's organic sector,” noted Noel Grealish TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with responsibility for Food Promotion, New Markets, Research and Development. “The quality of this year's finalists reflects the continued development of organic farming and food production in Ireland, and the growing opportunities available both at home and in export markets.” The winners included: Best Irish Organic Brand Award Winner: Solaris Botanicals – Loose Leaf Tea Best Irish Organic Farmer Award Winner: Burren Beef & Farm Best Irish Organic Retailer Award Winner: Dunnes Stores Best Irish Organic Exporter Award Winner: Irish Seaspray / Oileán Mara Teo – Organic Salmon Best New & Innovative Irish Organic Product Award Winner: Coghlan's Artisan Bakers – Rosemary and Olive Oil Foccacia Best Irish Organic Foodservice & Impact Initiative Award Winner: Airfield Estate – Education Speaking at the event, Bord Bia Organic Sector Manager, Ryan George, said, “The standard of entries received for the National Organic Awards 2026 demonstrates the depth of talent, innovation and commitment that exists throughout Ireland's organic sector. From farmers and food producers to retailers, exporters and foodservice operators, today's winners represent the very best of Irish organic food and farming. Their achievements highlight both the quality of Irish organic products and the significant opportunities that exist for future growth. "
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Mixed reaction to Budget THERE was a mixed reaction from retailers and their representative organisations to Budget 2027. RGDATA argued that the Budget Statement was the first formal indication employers received that the National Minimum Wage would increase by an amount far in excess of inflation. “Thousands of independent shop owners around the country will be deeply disappointed by Budget 2027,” said Roseanne Regan, RGDATA’s new Director General. “The highest business cost increase they have been dealing with – the cost of employment – will go up again as a result of the increase in the National Minimum Wage by an amount in excess of inflation.” She argued that for an employer with a full-time employee working 39 hours on the minimum wage, the increase will add approximately €1,750 a year in wages and employer PRSI: “Multiply that across a workforce and the impact is significant. Where does Government expect these businesses to find this extra money?” See page 12 for an in-depth interview with the new RGDATA Director General. Retail Ireland welcomed measures in Budget 2027 that will support household incomes, consumer spending and workforce skills, but warned that the increase in the National Minimum Wage will add significant costs to a sector already facing acute cost pressures. “Measures that put more money into consumers’ pockets are welcome and will help support spending across the economy,” noted Arnold Dillon, Director, Retail Ireland. “However, today’s increase in the National Minimum Wage adds further cost pressure to a sector that is already operating under considerable strain. Retailers are dealing with sustained increases in labour, energy, logistics and regulatory costs, while competing in a market where consumers remain highly price conscious.” Retail Ireland welcomed the Budget’s focus on supporting disposable incomes through personal tax measures, as well as investment in skills, training and AI readiness through the National Training Fund and wider workforce development initiatives. These measures will help support consumer demand and improve the long-term competitiveness of the economy. However, rising business costs remain
the key concern for retailers across the country. The increase in the employer PRSI threshold will provide some offset to the minimum wage increase, but it is not sufficient to address the cumulative cost burden facing retailers. “Retailers are committed to providing quality employment and investing in their people, but there is a limit to the costs businesses can absorb,” Dillon continued. “For many retailers, particularly smaller businesses, margins are under severe pressure and every additional cost has consequences for investment, expansion and job creation. While businesses are committed to supporting their employees, the cumulative impact of rising employment costs is becoming increasingly difficult to absorb, particularly for smaller retailers operating on tight margins.” Retail Ireland also welcomed measures aimed at simplifying administrative requirements for employers and acknowledged the continued focus on public safety, skills development and town centre investment, all of which are important to maintaining vibrant retail communities across the country. Food Drink Ireland, the Ibec group representing the food and drink sector, has welcomed measures announced in the Budget including the new €1 billion Scaling Fund to support Irish SMEs to scale and
grow and improvements to the R&D tax credit. These measures will help to boost investment in the sector and improve its competitiveness. However, Linda Stuart-Trainor, Deputy Director of FDI, said that significant input cost inflation in energy, transport, raw materials and labour continues to challenge the sector. It is critical that Government focus on reducing the cost of
Arnold Dillon, Director, Retail Ireland.
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2027 doing business by minimising Government imposed charges and overregulation. Retailers Against Smuggling contend that the €1 excise hike on tobacco will drive more consumers to the black market (see full story on Page 46), while Responsible Vaping Ireland (RVI), argue that the 20c per ml increase in E-Liquid Products Tax announced in Budget 2027 will add further pressure to businesses already facing spiralling operating costs.
Roseanne Regan, Director General, RGDATA. “Vaping products are an important part of the business for many independent and rural retailers,” noted an RVI spokesperson. “These are people who are playing by the rules, ensuring age checks, selling safe, regulated products and doing everything they can to operate responsibly. They should not be the ones punished while rogue sellers continue to operate outside the rules. “Government needs to understand that every extra cost makes it harder for legitimate retailers to compete with illegal sellers. If you make regulated products more expensive while failing to properly enforce the rules against rogue operators, you risk pushing more consumers towards a ballooning illegal vape market.”
Teagasc hosts food waste and circular economy event TEAGASC welcomed primary producers, food manufacturers, policymakers and other stakeholders to the Teagasc Food Research Centre, Ashtown, recently to explore practical ways to prevent food waste and support circular food innovation. Organised as part of the Horizon Europe Rosetta project, the mutual learning and demonstration mission event brought together key actors from across the food value chain to exchange knowledge, share experiences and explore practical solutions that prevent food waste and speed up the transition towards a circular food system. The event focused on the Irish Rosetta pilot case, which aimed to add value to Irish fruit and vegetables that do not meet marketing standards. It provided participants with the opportunity to learn from this experience and discuss how innovative approaches to food waste prevention can be adapted and implemented in different organisations and regional contexts. Through collaborative discussion and peer-topeer learning, participants explored opportunities to strengthen cooperation and accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices across the agri-food sector. “Thinking a bit differently gives us real opportunities to prevent food waste,” noted Professor Maeve Henchion, Principal Research Officer at Teagasc. “By looking at vegetables that may not meet aesthetic standards as a resource, and building circular thinking into new product development, we can deliver practical solutions. That is at the heart of the Rosetta project at Teagasc.” Participants were also introduced to the Teagasc National Prepared Consumed Centre (NPCFC) Systematic Food Valorisation Framework. The framework, developed by Angelo Galatolo, technologist at Teagasc, underpins the scientific approach used in the Irish Rosetta pilot.
Pictured are Shay Hannon, Manager of the National Prepared Consumer Food Centre at Teagasc; Angelo Galatolo, technologist at Teagasc; and Professor Maeve Henchion, Principal Research Officer at Teagasc. “What is particularly exciting is the wide range of products we have developed, from everyday bread and fermented carrot stalks, reflecting growing interest in fermentation and gut health, to premium chocolate bonbons,” said Angelo Galatolo. “This shows how a humble, rejected carrot can be transformed into innovative, high-value food products. Engagement at the National Ploughing Championships and Airfield Estate demonstrated real consumer interest and excitement, with many people keen to see these products reach the market.” The event concluded with a showcase and tasting of foods developed from out-ofspec vegetable ingredients, allowing participants to experience first-hand how such resources can be transformed into innovative, high-value food products. Speaking during the event, Shay Hannon, Manager of the National Prepared Consumer Food Centre at Teagasc, said: “Preventing food waste is not without challenges, but this project has shown that vegetables which fall outside marketing specifications can still have real value. From bread to chocolate bonbons, we have demonstrated how these ingredients can be transformed into appealing food products that consumers value.”
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News
Grocery sales up 5.8% for back-to-school season TAKE-HOME grocery sales in Ireland increased by 5.5% over the four weeks to September 6, 2026, compared to the same period last year, according to the latest data from Worldpanel by Numerator. Grocery inflation rose this month, with like-for-like grocery prices up 4.28% from last month’s 3.87%. This figure is up 0.41% versus the same period last year. The end of August’s warm weather continued into the backto-school season, as Irish shoppers geared up for the return to routine. That preparation drove more frequent shopping trips, up 2.4% year on year, and increased volume on these trips, up 1.8%, as they stocked up for the new term. “Irish shoppers made 44.6 million trips in the four weeks to September 3, 1.65 million more than last month, as this summer's warm weather and back-to-school routines clearly put a spring in their step,” noted Emer Healy, Business Development Director at Worldpanel by Numerator. “With trips, volumes and spend all climbing, it's positive news for Ireland's grocers.” Despite the uptick in trips and volumes, value remains front of mind for Irish shoppers, who spent €820 million on promotional lines over the latest 12 weeks, giving promotions value share of nearly 20.7%. “Shoppers have kept a keen eye on value throughout the summer, with promotional sales now accounting for nearly a quarter of spend, up 8.5%. It's clear that even amid the good weather and busier trolleys, Irish shoppers haven't lost sight of getting the best deal for their money,” said Emer. Branded goods had a strong period, growing 13% in value and adding €216 million as shoppers stocked up on back-to-school staples, with biscuits, savoury snacks, breakfast bars, sliced cooked meats and yoghurts all seeing a lift. This marked an extra €38 million spent on those categories alone versus last year. Value share for brands now stands at 50.4%. Own label grew more modestly at 3.6%, adding €60 million. Premium own label ranges held their own, up 11.2% in value, with shoppers spending an additional €15.6 million on retailers’ premium own ranges. Online proved to be another beneficiary of the return to routine. More shoppers opted to get their shopping delivered to their front door, with the channel up 3.8% versus this time last year. Irish shoppers made nearly eight online orders per household on average over the 12 weeks, an increase of 7.8% on the same period last year. This led to online sales jumping by 24.1% over the
latest 12 weeks and shoppers spending an additional €48.9 million compared to the same period last year. Over the latest 12 weeks, Dunnes hold 24.3% market share, with year-on-year sales growth of 8.2%. Dunnes shoppers visited more often, with trips up 5.6% versus last year, while the grocer also welcomed new shoppers to store. More frequent trips and new shopper recruits boosted the retailer’s performance, contributing a combined €54.3 million. Tesco maintain 24.1% of the market, with year-on-year value growth of 7.8%. Tesco saw a boost of shoppers returning to store more often in the latest 12 weeks, up 2.5%. Alongside more frequent trips, new shoppers to Tesco stores contributed an additional combined €28.4 million to overall performance. SuperValu claim 19.2% share and grew this by 4% on the previous 12 weeks. They lead all major retailers on trip frequency, averaging 23.1 visits per person over the latest 12 weeks. Larger trips, alongside welcoming new shoppers to store, contributed an additional combined €42.9 million to overall performance. Lidl’s market share stands at 14.7%, up 9.6% versus last year, meaning the discount retailer has seen the highest growth over the latest 12 weeks. Lidl saw existing shoppers return to store more often, as well as an influx of new shoppers, who picked up more packs per trip. This contributed an additional combined €44 million to overall performance. Aldi maintain 10.8% market share. New shopper arrivals alongside more frequent trips drove an additional €4.6 million in sales.
RGDATA receives confirmation of 6% commission for National Lottery games RGDATA has been advised by the National Lottery that all new games will pay retailers 6% commission, after RGDATA raised concerns over the 5% commission applying to Pick &Play. RGDATA raised the issue directly with the National Lottery after members queried why Pick &Play, recently rebranded from the former 54321 game, was operating at 5% commission. In response, National Lottery CEO Cian Murphy confirmed that Pick &Play has operated at 5% commission since it was introduced in the 1990s and that all other National Lottery games currently pay retailers 6% commission. He stated that the Pick & Play game was not a new game, but merely a rebranding of the 54321 game. In all other respects it remained the same. “I can further assure you and your members that any new
National Lottery game will be offered at the 6% commission rate,” said Cian Murphy, CEO of the National Lottery. “For instance, Pick &Play (formerly 54321) has to date only been offered on the Lotto draws. However we will be expanding it into Euromillion draws from early next year and will commit to applying a 6% commission to that new game.” Roseanne Regan, Director General of RGDATA, said: “This is a welcome commitment for independent food and convenience retailers. Our members raised a concern with us, we took it directly to the National Lottery and we now have clear confirmation that the 6% commission will apply to all new games, including EuroMillions Pick &Play next year. Retail agents are hugely important to the National Lottery and we will continue to make sure their interests are represented.”
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LEAD Network Ireland chapter announces People of the Year winners LEAD Network Ireland Chapter has officially announced the winners of its People of the Year Awards 2026. The non-profit, volunteer-run organisation dedicated to attracting, retaining, and advancing women across the retail and consumer goods industry, hosted the awards to celebrate leaders across Ireland who actively champion workplace gender equality and inclusion. Originally established in 2011, LEAD Network has grown to more than 22,000 members across 10 country chapters, partnering with over 200 manufacturers and 100 retailers to drive gender balance at every level. The Ireland Chapter committee brings together representatives from major industry brands, including Kellanova, Lidl, Musgrave, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Kraft Heinz, Irish Distillers, and FMI. The 2026 awards recognised outstanding individuals across two categories. Ruth Hughes, Kellanova, was named Inspirational Leader of the Year. Recognised by colleagues as a trusted problemsolver and role model, Hughes has demonstrated exemplary leadership by facilitating life-changing sabbaticals, acting as a formal mentor across multiple countries and functions, and stepping up personally to support team members through severe hardship. Owen Clifford of Bank of Ireland was named Ally of the Year for his proactive and sustained commitment to female leadership. Clifford actively supports female leaders within his organisation and the broader sector, frequently speaking on the importance of gender balance and setting a strong industry standard for practical allyship. “The LEAD Network People of the Year Awards shine a light on the individuals making a lasting difference through their actions, influence and commitment to developing others,” noted
Pictured are (l-r): Laura Canavan, LEAD Network Ireland Chapter Co-Chair and Head of Culture & Engagement at Lidl Ireland; Ruth Hughes, Kellanova, Inspirational Leader of the Year; Owen Clifford, Bank of Ireland, Ally of the Year; and Sarah Ferguson, LEAD Network Ireland Chapter co-chair and general manager, Kellanova. Laura Canavan, LEAD Network Ireland Chapter Co-Chair and Head of Culture & Engagement at Lidl Ireland. “Whether through mentoring emerging talent, championing inclusive workplaces, or demonstrating exceptional leadership, these awards celebrate the diverse ways people contribute to a more equitable industry. Huge congratulations to our winners, Ruth and Owen, whose daily efforts help shape stronger teams, better businesses, and a more inclusive future for all. "
Wages expected to increase by 3.1% in 2027: Ibec THE average employee can expect a pay increase of about 3.1% in 2027, with 83% of businesses expected to increase pay in 2027, according to Ibec’s annual Pay and Resourcing Forecast. The research, part of the annual Talent, Trends and Pay Survey report conducted with over 330 senior HR professionals, reveals that 85% of businesses increased pay in 2026, with respondents reporting an average increase of 3.5% across all sectors. Over a third of companies (35%) plan to increase their headcount in 2027, down from 37% forecasted for 2026 and 41% for 2025. Most new hires will continue to be for permanent roles, rising to 92% in 2026 from 89% in 2025. The primary drivers of additional headcount are increased production and demand for services (81%), business expansion into new markets (74%), and building a future pipeline of talent (56%). "While we are seeing a continued softening in headcount growth expectations, overall workforce resilience remains very strong,” said Maeve McElwee, Ibec's Executive Director of Employer Relations. “Even with a slight labour market cooling, employers continue to prioritise permanent recruitment and talent development to maintain competitiveness despite ongoing global volatility. “The report shows that recruiting necessary skills - both domestically and internationally - remains the primary focus for HR leads right now. Feedback in recent months from businesses indicates that attracting international workers into key sectors is
Maeve McElwee, Executive Director of Employer Relations, Ibec. hindered by overly burdensome visa and work permit procedures. Ireland remains unlike most EU countries that have adopted the Single Permit Directive (SPD), which ensures international talent deals with a single system. Employers are also reporting delays of up to 17 weeks for IRP cards, which is impacting business travel. Attracting international workers easily is a critical component of meeting our labour market needs, most notably in sectors facing skills shortages such as hospitality, construction, and care.”
8|Retail News|October 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Industry News Aldi launch trolley token campaign for Barnardos ALDI Ireland have announced the return of their annual Trolley Token charity campaign in partnership with Barnardos Ireland – it’s as easy as ABC. The €2 Trolley Tokens are available to purchase at all 167 Aldi stores nationwide, every cent raised going directly to Barnardos children’s charity. Building on the success of last year ’s fundraiser, which raised more than €31,000, adding a small donation at the till can be a simple and manageable way to give back for those customers who wish to get involved. Aldi Ireland customers can also choose to donate their Re-turn deposit cans and bottles in stores nationwide to support children in Ireland who need it most. Pictured are Fiadh Foley (age 4) and Boux Hickey (age 4), pre-school children, with John Curtin, Head of Commercial at Aldi Ireland; Mary Gamble, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Barnardos Ireland; and Paul O’Connell, Irish Rugby Forwards Coach and Aldi Ireland ambassador.
Steaks are high for Irish meat IRELAND has once again been crowned the top-performing country at the World Steak Challenge, taking home a record-breaking 82 medals at this year's competition in Amsterdam. With 29 gold medals, the most of any nation, Ireland finished ahead of Australia and England to retain its position as the world's leading grass-fed beef producer. Tesco Ireland took the title of World's Best Grass-Fed Sirloin for their Angus Cross steak, supplied by ABP, while Lidl Ireland and Dawn Meats secured a consecutive World's Best title this time with their Grass-Fed Ribeye for the Aberdeen Angus Cross entry. "Once again, Ireland's grass-fed beef has been recognised as the best in the world,” said Joe Burke, Bord Bia's Senior Manager for Meat and Livestock. “These results are testament to the dedication of our farmers and processors, and to the quality that comes from producing beef from pasture-based, sustainable systems under the Origin Green programme.”
Bananas: top choice for babies
Ornua graduate programme opens
IT’S official: bananas are top of the list for Irish parents when it comes to choosing a snack food for their baby or toddler. That’s according to the results of the National Parenting Product Awards competition, who, based on research conducted amongst parents and industry experts, awarded top spot to the popular pre-packed bananas, ‘Freddy Fyffes’ in in both the ‘best baby / toddler snack’ and ‘best baby/toddler snack for on the go’ sections. Pictured receiving the award are Fyffes marketing executive, Áine McElroy, and their Head of Marketing UK & Ireland, Emma-Hunt Duffy.
ORNUA, Ireland’s leading dairy cooperative and proud owner of Kerrygold, have announced the launch of their 2027 graduate programme. The two-year programme provides talented graduates with the opportunity to kick-start their professional careers by joining a leading global foods business which operates at the forefront of the thriving FMCG and dairy sectors, bringing the very best of premium dairy to international markets. “This programme, which has been running for over a decade in its current form, has been a hugely successful and vibrant part of our emerging talent development strategy, providing newly qualified graduates the opportunity to create their Ornua story by building rewarding careers, learning from experienced colleagues, and honing the skills to make a real impact in our business,” said Conor Galvin, Chief Executive Officer, Ornua.
Aramark showcase best of Irish food at Irish Open MORE than 70,000 visitors experienced a taste of Ireland's finest food and hospitality during this year's Irish Open, as Aramark Ireland successfully delivered one of the largest hospitality operations in Irish sport. As official catering, hospitality and food services provider for the championship, Aramark oversaw the complete food and beverage programme across the event, including hospitality catering, public food villages, venue bars, media catering, staff dining and catering for security and event support teams. "Most people experience the hospitality areas and food outlets operating seamlessly throughout the week, but behind that success was months of preparation and an extraordinary team effort,” noted Rúairí Boyce, Executive Chef at Aramark Ireland and Head Chef for the Irish Open.
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Industry News Moriarty’s SuperValu celebrates 30 years in Skerries MORIARTY’S SuperValu Skerries is celebrating 30 years at the heart of Skerries, marking three decades since the Moriarty family opened its Church Street store in 1996. A €500,000 redevelopment in 2010 enhanced the store's fresh-food offering and created 10 jobs, followed by a major €3.25 million expansion in 2016, which increased the supermarket from approximately 14,000 to 18,000 square feet, delivered substantial improvements to the store and staff facilities, and reduced energy consumption by up to 30%. Investment has continued in the years since, including a complete upgrade of the fresh-food departments, improvements to the store entrance, and further modernisation of the shopping environment. “When we opened in 1996, we believed strongly in the future of Skerries, and we are very proud of what the store has become,” said store owner Luke Moriarty. “We have invested more than €4 million in the business over the past three decades, ensuring our customers have a modern, vibrant supermarket and our staff have a great place to work.”
Brevato Café in Dublin turns one THE Brevato Café in Dublin celebrated its first year in business with a birthday bash recently, inviting customers to join the celebrations and enjoy half price on all coffees at the North Wall premises. Brevato Coffee is now available in over 100 Spar, Eurospar, Mace and Londis stores nationwide but the Brevato Café in Dublin was where it all began. Its location along the red Luas line at the George’s Dock stop means it’s the perfect spot for a breakfast meeting, a catch-up coffee with a friend, or to fuel up ahead of a day of shopping in Dublin.
Fyffes launch new sustainability strategy
FYFFES have launched their Sustainability Strategy 2025-2035, setting out a series of long-term commitments across climate, agriculture, packaging, food loss and waste, human rights and community impact, including a target to achieve gender parity in senior leadership and at least 30% female representation in supervisory operational roles by 2035 in their own operations. "The challenges facing global food systems require long-term thinking and collaboration across supply chains,” said Caoimhe Buckley, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Fyffes. “Through this strategy, we are establishing clear, measurable targets across the areas that are most material to our business and stakeholders. We will continue to monitor and report on our progress as we work towards these commitments.”
Lidl Ireland move into mobile market
LIDL Ireland have entered the Irish mobile market with the launch of Lidl Connect, a new premium mobile offering designed to bring the retailer’s focus on value, simplicity and customer experience to mobile customers. Lidl Connect launched with a limited offer of €8.99 per month at ‘Price for Life’, available to the first 100,000 customers. Lidl Connect is available exclusively through the retailer's Lidl Plus app, allowing for a seamless sign-up and ongoing management of the mobile plan in the app. Customers choose between picking up a physical SIM in any Lidl store nationwide for €0.99 or selecting an eSIM and complete registration via the Lidl Plus app. “Value has always been at the heart of what we offer our customers, and with Lidl Connect we are taking that same approach into the mobile market,” noted Robert Ryan, CEO of Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland, pictured with and cookbook author and food content creator Gina Daly at Lidl Tallaght to mark the launch of Lidl Connect.
Strong growth at Mash Direct NORTHERN Irish food producer, Mash Direct, has reported sales of £32.8 million (€38.7 million) and EBITDA of £3.4 million (€4 million) in 2025, as the sixth-generation family business continued to grow across retail and foodservice. The County Down-based prepared vegetable and side dish brand, which is owned by the Hamilton family (pictured) recorded an EBITDA margin of 10.4%, with profit after tax reaching £1.46 million (€1.7 million). “We have been focused on growing the business in a disciplined way, improving margins at the same time as expanding distribution, and strengthening the brand,” noted Jack Hamilton, CEO of Mash Direct. “The result gives us a solid platform to continue investing in innovation, manufacturing capability, and the customer partnerships that will drive the next phase of growth.”
10|Retail News|October 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Industry News Retail Minister urges businesses to step-up age checks RETAIL Minister Alan Dillon TD has urged businesses to remain vigilant when selling agerestricted products and to ensure staff are confident in carrying out robust age-verification checks to help prevent underage sales. Minister Dillon was speaking at the launch of the latest Show Me I.D. – Be Age OK campaign at Mulroy’s Londis on the Moneen Road Roundabout in Castlebar, Co. Mayo. “Retailers and their staff have an important responsibility when it comes to preventing young people from accessing age-restricted products. Robust age checks are one of the most practical ways businesses can help prevent underage sales and ensure these products are sold responsibly,” said Minister Dillon, who encouraged retailers to make use of the free training available. Minister Dillon is pictured with Alan Mulroy, Mulroy’s Londis, Castlebar.
Tesco launch festive recruitment drive
TESCO Ireland have launched their 2026 festive recruitment drive, with 1,725 temporary roles available across stores nationwide as the retailer prepares to help customers across the busy Christmas shopping period. Tesco are increasing the number of festive roles available by over 600 compared with last year, with the increase reflecting the expansion of Tesco’s store network and online operations across Ireland this year. These roles will support the existing 13,500 permanent colleagues in Tesco stores, with those colleagues working less than full-time hours having the opportunity of availing of additional hours, helping Tesco provide customers with a great shopping experience at one of the busiest times of the year. Tesco colleagues Shane Connolly and Fatou Nyang are pictured getting into the festive spirit to launch Tesco Ireland’s Christmas recruitment drive.
Applegreen support Wexford Festival Opera
WEXFORD Festival Opera has announced a new corporate partnership with Applegreen, which will see the forecourt operator become the Official Sponsor of the Festival’s popular Pocket Opera Programme. The partnership aligns closely with Applegreen's commitment to community wellbeing and positive social impact by creating opportunities for more people to experience the benefits of live performance. "This is a really appropriate partnership for us, as Pocket Opera brings opera out into the wider community, while Applegreen is at the heart of communities across Ireland,” said Bob Etchingham, Applegreen Executive Chairman, pictured with Suzanne Nance, Executive Director, Wexford Festival Opera.
Tiernan’s SuperValu unveil Louth’s first Bulk Reverse Vending Machine TIERNAN’S SuperValu in Dundalk’s Fairways Centre has become the first supermarket in Louth to launch a high-capacity bulk reverse vending machine, enabling customers, local clubs and charities to conveniently recycle larger quantities of plastic containers and aluminium cans in a single visit. Supported by Re-turn, the new machine can process up to 100 containers per minute, enabling local Louth clubs and charities to return containers more efficiently, with local groups already utilising the service to maximise fundraising. “The installation marks an important step forward in achieving our sustainability goals, with the capacity to now process over 3.5 million containers annually,” noted Richard Tiernan, Tiernan’s SuperValu Fairways. “What makes this milestone even more meaningful is the benefit it brings to local clubs and charities, who can now return containers at a faster rate, raising much needed funds.”
New National Sales Manager at Yakult YAKULT have appointed Joe Gailani as National Sales Manager for the UK & Ireland, to help drive the next phase of commercial growth, with a focus on deepening retailer partnerships and broadening distribution across key channels. In his new role, Gailani will lead Yakult’s sales strategy across the UK & Ireland, focusing on strengthening existing retail partnerships, supporting sustainable category growth, and increasing the brand’s availability across a wider range of channels and more consumption occasions. Gailani brings more than 18 years’ experience building and scaling food and drink brands, with expertise spanning national accounts, commercial strategy, customer development and channel growth across retail, wholesale, foodservice and e-commerce.
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Retail News Interview
Passing the torch
September 7 saw Roseanne Regan take up the role of RGDATA Director General, taking over from Tara Buckley, who is retiring after 22 years in charge of the representative organisation for Ireland’s independent grocery and convenience retailers. Together, they extol the virtues of the Irish independent grocery sector, while remaining cognisant of the challenges ahead and the role of RGDATA in meeting them. ROSEANNE Regan, the new Director General of RGDATA, has had something of a “baptism of fire” since taking up her new role on September 7. She was only in her second week in the job when she had a sit-down meeting with Peter Burke TD, Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment, alongside other representative groups, to discuss the key challenges which are facing the SME sector, including independent food and convenience stores. “I announced I was there from RGDATA and I could feel all the heads turn from the other associations there, wondering ‘Where's Tara?’” she laughs. Tara Buckley has been at the helm of RGDATA, the Retail Grocers, Dairy and Allied Trades Association, representing the
voice of independent grocery retailers for 22 years, before announcing her retirement during the summer. Tara is staying on in an advisory capacity until December, however, to help Roseanne settle into the Director General role, “for which I am extremely grateful,” Roseanne acknowledges. “Roseanne has taken to it like a duck to water,” Tara smiles. “Although she’s been so busy.” For her own part, Tara had no idea when she took on the role of Director General in 2004 that she would be there so long. “I had transitioned from journalism into public affairs, where I had worked in two big companies,” she recalls. “This was my first opportunity to lead an organisation. And I suppose I had thought I was on a career
path that may have led me somewhere else eventually, but I found that I really enjoyed it and I think it fitted my skill set. I feel quite passionately about the issues relating to independent grocers, family-owned businesses, and vibrant town centres, so I really enjoyed my 22 years.” One accusation that could never be levelled at the Irish grocery trade is that it’s boring, and certainly during Tara’s two decades-plus leading RGDATA, the industry has gone through massive change, from the growth of the discounters to the global recession of 2008, the Covid pandemic, and the impact of global conflicts on the supply chain. “I'm not the sort of person who picks over old coals,” she smiles, “because, when
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Retail News Interview you're representing the likes of independent grocers, you have to keep your eyes looking forward.” However, much like Roseanne in 2026, Tara’s first weeks in 2004 also saw her thrown in at the deep end. “My first big task was to fight the battle on the repeal of the Groceries Order, but I am a realist and I suspect that particular issue was done and dusted before I had arrived, as the government and Minister of the time had already made their minds up. But the trade moved on from that and there certainly were plenty of other issues,” she admits. “The most challenging are usually to do with red tape regulation and governmentimposed costs. But if you ever needed to lift your spirits, to remind yourself that this was an important job and one well worth doing, a trip to visit members in their stores was always a great way to incentivise yourself.” Putting town centres first Tara confesses that the area she found particularly rewarding was her work on town centre regeneration: “I’m very proud of our involvement in the whole area of town centre vibrancy, in creating town centre health checks, and maintaining those vibrant communities throughout Ireland with an independent grocer at their centre.” She believes that RGDATA’s continued advocacy for Irish town centre regeneration was key to the Government’s introduction of their Town Centre First policy in February 2022, a major cross-government policy that aims to tackle vacancy, combat dereliction and breathe new life into our town centres. “A lot of our members are now operating in towns where there is investment in town teams, town plans, regeneration and public realm projects, and all of these are very important for a community,” Tara notes. “Having a local independent shop in the middle of it all is part of the X factor that makes those towns the ones that people want to live in, want to visit, want to shop in.” She acknowledges that RGDATA worked with a number of other representative organisations on town centre regeneration, as well as other issues, becoming regular contributors to the Government’s Retail Forum, for example, while Tara joined the National Council of ISME, the organisation representing Irish Small and Medium Enterprise (and Roseanne will shortly take up the same role). “Times have changed in the way public affairs and lobbying happens, so RGDATA had to build relationships with other associations and representative bodies,
Tara Buckley, pictured leading an RGDATA delegation to the Department of Enterprise. while also building our credibility with trade and particularly how new legislation government and civil servants,” Tara impacts on their bottom line and their notes. “We were involved with the Gardaí ability to continue as local employers. from the very beginning with the Strategic “When government economists were Retail Crime Forum, while we are also looking at the impact of the various heavily involved with both the retail and legislative measures on the cost of enterprise forums. Working with these business, RGDATA members provided different government bodies has meant that important qualitative information to the you learn to work in a more collegiate and department, which I think allowed them, collaborative way with others.” for the first time, to fully understand Of course, there are certain issues that what the impact was of increasing the are specific to the retail grocery sector, minimum wage, pension auto- enrolment, and here too Tara believes that RGDATA mandatory sick days etc in terms of the has made a huge difference. She cites the actual cost implications for a business like a importance of getting store owners faceconvenience store or a supermarket,” Tara to-face with those at the highest levels of reveals. government to explain the issues facing the Roseanne agrees that one of the
Roseanne Regan, incoming Director General of RGDATA.
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Retail News Interview
Tara Buckley is retiring after 22 years as RGDATA Director General. strongest powers RGDATA has in its arsenal is to put actual retailers in front of Government “to explain the realities on the ground, that there is no limitless pot of money for them to pay for cost increase after cost increase”. Roseanne cites the example of one convenience store retailer she spoke to who has seen a €30k increase in his wage bill in the last year due to auto-enrolment, sick pay and the rise in the minimum wage. “I think RGDATA and our members can bring that reality to the government and to the civil service that the knock-on, unintended consequences of some of these measures are impacting small businesses, which will have a huge detrimental impact on communities across Ireland,” she insists. National Lottery commission Another achievement that stands out for Tara is the fact that RGDATA was instrumental in maintaining the retail agents’ commission with the National Lottery, when the organisation was sold in 2023, which she describes as a very good win: “RGDATA were the first out of the traps,” she recalls. “We were straight into the Minister directly, once the announcement was made that the licence was going to be sold, and we were name-checked by the Minister in the Dáil that afternoon and given a commitment that they would maintain the retail agents’ commission at 6% across the suite of National Lottery products.” While our current Government have made the right noises about supporting
SMEs and reducing unnecessary bureaucracy and red tape for retailers, the proof is in the pudding, according to both RGDATA chiefs. “There are still a huge amount of issues that need to be addressed,” Tara says. “We've had a lot of promises from government and the first test was Budget 2027 because we definitely needed on our members’ behalf to see significant commitments to some of the proposals and recommendations in the Cost of Business Forum’s report, but unfortunately they were not implemented. They can make the speeches and statements, but if they don't actually take the action and ensure that the recommendations are followed through on and are delivered, they won't be making much of a difference to the cost of doing business.” In the wake of the Budget, RGDATA has called for the Cost of Business Forum to be urgently reconvened after the government “effectively ignored” its recommendations, according to Roseanne. “Thousands of independent shop owners around the country will be deeply disappointed by Budget 2027. The highest business cost increase they have been dealing with – the cost of employment – will go up again as a result of the increase in the National Minimum Wage by an amount in excess of inflation,” she says. While welcoming the decision to raise the employer PRSI threshold from €552 to €600 per week, Roseanne argues that “in reality it will only cushion some of the considerable additional employment costs associated with the increase in the National Minimum Wage. A reduction in the employer PRSI contribution rate would have had a more meaningful and direct impact on employment costs and RGDATA will push for this to be introduced now as an urgent response to the NMW increase.” RGDATA also criticised the absence of meaningful measures to address rising energy costs: “Refrigeration, lighting, ovens and other essential equipment have to run regardless of what happens to energy prices. Yet there is no meaningful relief in this Budget from the day-to-day electricity costs facing these businesses,” says Roseanne. “Fewer than four in 10 of the independent retailers we surveyed expect to make a profit this year. Government cannot continue to add to the costs of businesses operating on tight margins and simply expect them to find the money. Just where do Simon Harris, Jack Chambers and Peter Burke expect retailers to find this money to fund these additional costs?”
The role of RGDATA The role of RGDATA remains important, Tara stresses: “We represent independent grocers and convenience retailers at the highest level and we make sure we put in considered research and submissions when we're making our representations, so we are taken seriously.” Roseanne believes that the key to representing the interests of retailers effectively is to listen to their concerns, regularly. While crime remains a key concern, and independent retailers are always cognisant of planning issues in their communities, the biggest issue for retailers is the rising cost of doing business here. “The most important job I can do right now is get out and listen to retailers," Roseanne stresses. "Without a doubt, the message is coming back loud and clear that the cost of doing business is the biggest challenge they're facing right now. We’re talking about rising employment costs, energy, insurance and regulatory costs. The cumulative impact of that is particularly difficult on a sector like ours, where it is so labour-intensive and margins are so tight.” She reveals that for many members the “fear of the unknown” is a real concern: “You make a plan for a year ahead, and you might factor in a 5% increase on a particular cost, when suddenly you're faced with a 20-25% cost increase across the board. That makes it impossible to not only to thrive, but to stay viable. Independent retailers are best in class at adapting, being innovative, finding ways to cut down on extra costs in terms of energy saving and coming up with innovative products like their bakery offerings. But so many of these costs are outside their control. “That's where RGDATA has to step in for the years ahead and ensure that a single decision in Leinster House isn't going to have a detrimental impact on the viability of businesses across the country.” A career that comes full-circle For Roseanne, taking up the role of Director General of RGDATA has seen her career come full circle in a way – she previously worked at the organisation as Communications and Public Affairs Manager in 2013 and 2014, following which she held senior roles at Walsh PR, Ryanair, and Liberty Mutual Insurance, remaining with the business through its acquisition by Generali and rebrand to RedClick. The opportunity to return to RGDATA was one she grasped with both hands, she reveals: “It's such a unique role in terms of advocacy and representation. What’s
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Retail News Interview perhaps very unique is that the outcomes and the impact the work has on businesses and communities across Ireland are so very tangible. Because independent retailers have such a huge impact on the viability of communities right across the country, this role can have a massive knock-on impact across Ireland.” Roseanne admits that she “always kept an eye on RGDATA” throughout her career. “Even when I was working with big corporations, I would always think back to the feeling I got working with retailers,” she smiles. “I used to go into independent retail shops to record our members’ tips of the month about different topics that we were covering. And that stayed with me throughout my career, hearing about different ideas from retailers and the passion they have for that business. So, to now have an opportunity to represent those retailers is really special.” Roseanne grew up watching her parents run their own family business, which she feels gave her an early understanding of the realities of running an SME. “Having seen first-hand what it's like to have a small business and to be an employer, the highs and the lows that come with that, I think will really stand to me in this role.” For her part, Tara is convinced that Roseanne is the right person to take over from her. “I’m absolutely delighted that Roseanne has come in. She's going to bring a whole new energy and dynamism to RGDATA. She has the passion that's required, and she has loads of skills that are necessary to drive RGDATA forward in the digital age, to guide and represent the independent retail sector.” Uniqueness of Irish grocery Tara has “thoroughly enjoyed my 22 years. I can look back fondly at my time in RGDATA, but I am also looking forward to a whole set of new challenges in my life.” She hasn’t quite gone yet, however, and Tara’s enthusiasm for the job shines through when she reveals the news of a forthcoming piece of research from RGDATA and economist Jim Power on the Irish independent grocery sector. “There is a uniqueness about the Irish grocery sector that really isn't replicated anywhere else,” she enthuses. “Irish independent grocers have around one third market share out of 3,000-3,500 convenience stores, supermarkets, and speciality food stores across the country. We are seeing that passion, that handson approach transferring from fathers to daughters and mothers to sons, as a whole new generation of independent
Roseanne Regan, pictured with Peter Burke TD, Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment. retailers take over the reins of their family businesses. “These retailers have strong community links and they have a real love of fresh food retailing; because you have to love it to deliver on all the demands that it asks of you. This research that we are working on highlights how special the Irish grocery market is, and that it's something that we all should be ensuring continues to thrive because it makes for a better shopping experience across the board. “Independent retailers make the multiples pull up their socks and deliver a better offer to their customers in towns and villages right across Ireland. So, what we'll be saying to government is this is a sector that is well worth not just protecting but supporting. Grocery retail is one of the areas that we're the best at in the world; people come from all over the world to visit our shops. We should be proud of our independent grocers and we should support them and ensure that what government does doesn't impinge on them in a negative way. “Convenience and supermarket retailing is quite a complicated, hands-on business, involving lots of feet on the ground,” Tara adds. “Customers sometimes enter a shop, where they see this wonderful, smooth operation, but they don't realise the huge amount of work and effort that goes in in the background.” She cites the example of one store she visited recently where the first staff member arrives at 1.30am for the store to open its doors at 7am. “Many stores now are practically 24-7 because of the amount
of work in the background that you have to do to present that wonderful shopping experience to your customers.” Setting the standards One thing that hasn’t changed over the 22 years that Tara has been with RGDATA is the fact that Irish independent retailers continue to be the flag-bearers for international retailing standards. “They have faced the challenges from the biggest global retailers - some of the top food retailers in the world are operating here - and the independent sector has adapted, invested, and changed so it can continue to compete with them,” Tara says. “The next generation of Irish retailers is coming through and they are taking on these global giants every day and beating them at selling fresh food, at customer service, at the presentation of their stores, at the customer experience.” Roseanne agrees: “It really struck me in my first few weeks in the role just how highly regarded the quality of Ireland’s independent grocery sector is across Europe and the UK. Consumers in Ireland perhaps don't even realise that the offering that we're experiencing as customers is so high and we have to support the unique offering that we have.” For now, though, we will leave the final word to Tara on the quality of our independent grocery sector: “The people who live in towns with an independent grocer at the centre of that town are the happier customers in terms of the choice they have, the convenience they have, the vibrancy of their town and the investment in their town.”
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Sellotape
Sellotape: sealing festive moments for over 80 years The iconic Sellotape brand has been a consumer favourite since the 1930s. IN a world where brands come and go, Sellotape has remained a quiet constant, a trusted companion in homes for over eight decades. From last-minute fixes to the magic of Christmas morning, Sellotape has been holding things together since the 1930s. Born in West London, it quickly became a household name, so iconic, in fact, that it earned a place in the English Dictionary in 1980. Today, it’s still the nation’s favourite sticky tape, with a legacy built on reliability, familiarity, and a touch of festive sparkle. Wrapping happiness, the Sellotape way Would Christmas morning feel the same without the joy of unwrapping? That satisfying tear of paper, the suspense, the sparkle; it’s all part of the magic. And behind every perfectly wrapped gift is the tape that holds it all together. Sellotape is more than just tape; it’s part of the tradition. Whether it’s wrapping awkwardly shaped presents or sealing a child’s handmade card, families continue to rely on Sellotape to make festive moments stick. This year’s campaign celebrates the joy of giving with a charming visual: two sheets of wrapping paper joined by the iconic golden tape, forming the shape of a Christmas tree. The tagline ‘Wrap with Love, Seal with Sellotape’ captures the sentiment beautifully. And there’s a little design detail to note; the ‘O’ in Love is highlighted in yellow, a subtle nod to the unmistakable roll of Sellotape that’s been part of gift-wrapping traditions for generations. Retailers take note As shoppers gear up for the holidays, Sellotape remains a must-stock item. With
Sellotape is more than just tape; it’s part of the tradition of Christmas. strong brand equity, seasonal relevance, and a sustainability story that resonates, it’s the kind of product that drives both impulse and planned purchases. From supermarket aisles to stationery shelves, Sellotape continues to seal its place as a festive essential, sparking spontaneous pick-ups and remaining a go-to choice for seasonal shopping lists. It brings joy and nostalgia to homes everywhere. Key highlights: • Heritage & trust: Sellotape has been a household name since the 1930s, earning a place in the English Dictionary in 1980. • Emotional connection: Sellotape continues to play a central role in family traditions, from wrapping gifts to crafting festive memories. • Festive campaign: This year’s creative features two sheets of wrapping paper sealed by Sellotape in the shape of a Christmas tree, with the tagline ‘Wrap with Love, Seal with Sellotape’. • Visual identity: The campaign highlights the iconic golden tape roll, with the ‘O’
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in Love called out in yellow, a nod to Sellotape’s timeless presence in gift wrapping. Retail opportunity: A proven seasonal essential, Sellotape drives both spontaneous pick-ups and planned purchases across grocery and stationery channels.
Iconic brand Sellotape is one of the UK & Ireland’s most iconic stationery brands, known for its Original Golden Tape and innovative adhesive solutions. A part of Henkel’s consumer portfolio, Sellotape continues to evolve while staying true to its heritage of quality, reliability, and emotional connection. Sellotape is the unsung hero of Christmas.
18|Retail News|October 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Retail Ireland: Monthly Update
Creating Pathways for Retail Careers
RETAIL offers careers across a wide range of disciplines, from customer experience and store operations to merchandising, supply chain, marketing, digital commerce, and senior management. As retail businesses continue to adapt to changing consumer behaviour, new technologies, and evolving business requirements, access to education and training remains an important part of developing skills and supporting career progression within the sector. For more than 25 years, Retail Ireland Skillnet has provided industry-focused training and education programmes for retail employees and employers. Established in 2000 and promoted by Retail Ireland and Ibec, the network has worked with more than 1,000 retail businesses and supported over 20,000 employees. Today, its programmes range from frontline retail qualifications and apprenticeships to degree programmes, executive education, and leadership development. Some of its flagship programmes include:
Retail Occupational Training (Level 5) Designed for frontline retail employees, this programme helps participants build core retail skills, customer service expertise, and operational knowledge. It provides a strong foundation for those looking to establish a long-term career in the sector. Apprenticeship in Retail Supervision (Level 6) Launched in 2019, the Apprenticeship in Retail Supervision offers retailers a practical way to develop future supervisors and managers from within their existing workforce. The two-year programme combines workplace learning with formal education, allowing participants to apply their learning directly in-store, while earning a nationally recognised qualification. More than 700 retail businesses have participated, with over 1,100 applications received since launch. Micro-Credentials In Retail Management and Retail Operations Retail Ireland Skillnet plan to launch eight new micro-credentials in areas related to retail management and operations in early 2027. Programmes include Managing Sales Strategies, Digital Marketing for Retail, Business and Financial Acumen in Retail, Spreadsheets for Retail Managers, Leadership in the Experience Economy, Retail Workforce Management, Leading with Integrity, and Coaching, Mentoring and Performance Management. Each of these new programmes involves four days of face-to-face delivery (delivered in Dublin and Galway) and the target audience is retail managers, leaders and small business owners. Executive and Leadership Development Retail leadership has become increasingly complex, requiring managers to balance commercial performance, people leadership, innovation, and organisational change. Retail Ireland Skillnet supports leadership teams through advanced development opportunities designed to strengthen strategic capability and business performance.
Tel: 01-6051558 |
Flexible learning for a changing sector Retail businesses need training that works around operational demands. For this reason, Retail Ireland Skillnet delivers programmes through a blend of online and in-person learning, ensuring accessibility for retailers across the country. Courses are designed in partnership with industry and delivered by experienced practitioners, ensuring that learning remains relevant, practical and immediately applicable in the workplace. In addition to its accredited programmes, the network offers a wide range of short courses and workshops, covering areas such as customer service, sales, communications, leadership and operational excellence. These programmes enable retailers to respond quickly to emerging skills needs, while supporting ongoing professional development. Supporting retail's sustainability journey Sustainability is becoming a growing priority for retailers and their customers. Through collaboration with the Skillnet Climate Ready Academy, Retail Ireland Skillnet also highlights funded upskilling opportunities that help businesses build climate resilience and improve environmental performance. Programmes such as the Energy Leaders Programme, Sustainability Leaders Programme, and Transport Leaders Programme provide retailers with practical tools to reduce costs, improve efficiency and support long-term sustainable growth. With programmes spanning frontline retail, management, leadership and sustainability, Retail Ireland Skillnet continues to support the development of retail talent across the country. For more information on programmes and upcoming course intakes, visit www.retailirelandskillnet.com.
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.
20|Retail News|October 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Gala Retail Conference 2026
Celebrating excellence at the Gala Retail Conference 2026 Gala Retail recently held their Retail Conference in the Great Southern Hotel, Killarney, which also hosted the presentation of the Gala Excellence Awards. GALA Retail brought retailers, wholesalers, suppliers and partners from across Ireland together at the Great Southern Hotel in Killarney for their 2026 annual conference, celebrating another successful year for the Group and setting out their plans for continued growth in 2027. The two-day event put retail development, fresh thinking and investment firmly on the agenda, while recognising the
retailers delivering high standards across Gala’s network of more than 220 group stores nationwide. The day started with a packed conference programme, focused on the trends and innovations shaping the future of retail. Discussions covered changing consumer and shopping behaviour, the transformation of retail, and the role of cutting-edge technology in driving retail
transformation. Hosted by Alan Shortt, the morning session featured business speakers Paul McNeive and Ken Hughes, who shared their perspectives on business, consumer behaviour, and the evolving retail landscape. This was followed by Gala’s supplier trade show, bringing retailers and suppliers together to explore new products, opportunities and ideas for the year ahead. Speaking at the conference, Gary Desmond, CEO of Gala Retail, reflected on a busy year for the group, with continued investment from retailers in new stores, refurbishments, technology, fresh food, and the roll-out of Gala Retail concepts. “2026 has been another year of investment and progress across the Gala Group,” Gary noted. “Our retailers continue
Gary Desmond, CEO, Gala Retail, is pictured at the Gala Retail Conference with event MC, Jacqui Hurley, and sporting legends Niall Quinn and Anthony Daly.
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Gala Retail Conference 2026
Gala Category Award winners: Pictured at the Gala Retail Conference are (l-r): Donald Williamson, Chairman of Gala Retail; speaker Ken Hughes; Gary Desmond, CEO, Gala Retail; and speaker Paul McNeive.
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Event MC Jacqui Hurley is pictured with Eoin Kellet, MD, Mondelez Ireland, winner of the Supplier of the Year Award, and Gary Desmond, CEO, Gala Retail.
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Pictured are (l-r): Darren Savidge, O’Brien Ingredients; Simon Atkins, Daly's Gala Lifford, winner of the Bakers Corner Award; and Audrey Kelly, Frozen Trading Manager & Chilled Logistics Manager, Gala Retail. to invest in their stores, their customers and their communities, and that ambition is strengthening the Gala brand nationwide.” Gala continued to support retailers through a broad programme of marketing, consumer promotions and community initiatives. This included their
12th year as Platinum Sponsor of Special Olympics Ireland, national consumer campaigns such as ‘Spring Stays with Gala Retail’, their partnership with Virgin Media Television for Ireland’s Best Baker and Junior Baker of the Year, and further activations planned in the lead-up to Christmas, both in-store and a new
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Gala Baker’s Corner of the Year, sponsored by O’Brien Ingredients: Daly’s Gala, Lifford, Co. Donegal. Gala Chilled Retailer of the Year, sponsored by Aryzta Food Solutions: Daniel’s Gala, Derrinturn, Co. Kildare. Gala Store Manager of the Year, sponsored by K&K Produce: Jennifer O’Sullivan, O’Shea’s Gala, Blennerville, Co. Kerry. Gala Community Initiative Award, sponsored by BAT Ireland: McDonagh’s Gala Cill Chiarán, Connemara, Co. Galway. Gala Fresh Food Award, sponsored by Tirlán: Manor Forecourts Gala, Clonroche, Co. Wexford. Gala Off-Licence of the Year, sponsored by Comans Beverages: Hanlon’s Gala, Longford. Gala Marketing Initiative of the Year, sponsored by JTI: McKenna’s Gala, Milford, Co. Donegal. Gala Customer Service of the Year, sponsored by Britvic: M&P O’Sullivan’s Gala, Leemount Cross, Carrigrohane, Co. Cork. Gala Social Media Champion, sponsored by Tayto Snacks: Clifford’s Gala, Mounthawk, Tralee, Co. Kerry. Gala Coffee Junction of the Year, sponsored by Matthew Algie: Hanlon’s Gala, Longford. Gala Brand Champion 2026, sponsored by Mondelez: McDermott’s Gala, Patrickswell, Co. Limerick. Gala Special Merit Award, sponsored by Coca-Cola HBC: Sean Mulrooney, Mulrooney Group, Co. Tipperary. Gala Supplier of the Year: Mondelez
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Gala Retail Conference 2026 consumer campaign across Gala’s social channels. Sustainability also remained part of the group’s wider investment programme through Gala Greener Grants, supporting retailers as they move towards more energy-efficient stores. Looking ahead, Gala used the conference to unveil ‘A Fresh Approach for Gala’, their strategy for 2027, which will put fresh food, quality coffee, hot food, bakery, and specialist retail concepts at the centre of the group’s next phase of development. The strategy responds to shifting shopper expectations and Gala's goal of helping retailers transform their convenience stores into destinations, giving customers more reasons to visit and come back. One example already in action is Hanlon’s Gala in Longford, which recently opened the group’s first Coffee Junction Café. Gala plan to expand the format further in 2027, alongside the continued development of concepts including Krispy Hen, Baker’s Corner, Galato, Distill and The Deli. “As we look to 2027, we want to build on the momentum from last year,” Gary Desmond explained. “Convenience and location will always matter, but shoppers increasingly expect more from the stores they visit. Our fresh food, coffee, bakery, and specialist concepts give retailers an opportunity to create genuine destination stores and build even stronger businesses within their communities.” Gala Excellence Awards Celebrating retail excellence was a key part of the conference, with Gala Excellence Awards presented to stores deemed ‘outstanding’ following a comprehensive and independent assessment process. The celebrations then moved to the evening awards event, hosted by sports broadcaster Jacqui Hurley and featuring sporting stars Anthony Daly and Niall Quinn, with entertainment by Risteárd Cooper and the band Wow, where Gala’s 2026 category winners were announced. Congratulating this year’s winners, Gary Desmond added, “Our retailers are at the heart of the Gala brand, and these awards recognise the commitment they show every day to their customers and communities. I’d like to congratulate all of this year’s Excellence and Category award winners on a fantastic achievement.”
Pictured are (l-r): Deirdre Kennedy, K&K Produce; Jennifer O'Sullivan, O'Shea's Gala Blennerville, winner of the Store Manager of The Year Award; and Audrey Kelly, Frozen Trading Manager & Chilled Logistics Manager, Gala Retail.
Pictured are (l-r): Tony Cluskey, Marketing & Ambient Trading Manager, Gala Retail; Sinead O’Grady and Michael O’Sullivan, M&P O’Sullivan’s Gala, Leemount Cross, Cork, winner of the Customer Service Award; and Darragh Cummins, Britvic.
Pictured are (l-r): Kevin Fitzgerald, Aryzta Food Solutions; Eddie Daniels, Daniel's Gala Derrinturn, winner of the Chilled Retailer Award; and Audrey Kelly, Frozen Trading Manager & Chilled Logistics Manager, Gala Retail.
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Gala Retail Conference 2026
Pictured are (l-r): Tony Cluskey, Marketing & Ambient Trading Manager, Gala Retail; Patrick Hanlon, Hanlon's Gala Longford, winner of the Coffee Junction Award; and Edwin Addison, Matthew Algie.
Pictured are (l-r):Audrey Kelly, Frozen Trading Manager & Chilled Logistics Manager, Gala Retail; Harry Buckley, Manor Forecourts Gala, Clonroche, winner of the Fresh Food Award; and Declan Fennelly, Tirlán.
Pictured are (l-r): Adrian McCourt, Coca Cola; Sean Mulrooney, Mulrooney Group, winner of the Special Merit Award; and Gary Desmond, CEO, Gala Retail.
Pictured are (l-r): Brian O'Shea, JTI; Ciaran McKenna, McKenna's Gala Milford, winner of the Marketing Initiative Award; and Tony Cluskey, Marketing & Ambient Trading Manager, Gala Retail.
Pictured are (l-r): Jonathan O’Connor, Tayto Snacks; Katie O'Sullivan, Clifford's Gala Mounthawk, winner of the Social Media Champion Award; and Tony Cluskey, Marketing & Ambient Trading Manager, Gala Retail.
Pictured are (l-r): Eoin Kellet, Mondelez; John McDermott, McDermott's Gala Patrickswell, winner of the Brand Champion Award; and Gary Desmond, CEO, Gala Retail.
Pictured are (l-r): Tony Cluskey, Marketing & Ambient Trading Manager, Gala Retail; Patrick Hanlon, Hanlon's Gala Longford, winner of the Off-Licence of the Year Award; and Redmond Gavin, Comans Beverages.
Pictured are (l-r): Audrey Kelly, Frozen Trading Manager & Chilled Logistics Manager, Gala Retail; Michelle Nic Dhonnchadha and Anna Nic Dhonnchadha, McDonagh's Gala Cill Chiarán, winner of the Community Initiative Award; and Noel Ryan, BAT Ireland.
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Ireland’s Quality Food & Drink Awards 2026
Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards winners revealed
The winners of the 2026 Ireland’s Quality Food & Drink Awards were announced at a gala event in the Mansion House recently. THE winners of the 2026 Ireland Quality Food & Drink Awards were announced at a ceremony at The Round Room, The Mansion House, Dublin, on Wednesday, September 16, with more than 300 food and drink industry professionals attending. Hosted by Rachel Allen, the event brought together producers, retailers, manufacturers and foodservice businesses from across Ireland. More than 1,000 entries were submitted across 154 categories for this year’s awards, with judging taking place at Leopardstown Racecourse. Products were assessed by an independent panel of industry experts against the Awards’ established criteria, resulting in 78 Gold winners alongside Silver and Bronze awards.
Retail winners Aldi was named Retailer of the Year and Drinks Retailer of the Year, while their Specially Selected Slow Roasted Confit Duck Fillets with Plum Sauce won Product of the Year. Aldi also took home the Award for Christmas Product of the Year with their Specially Selected Irish Wagyu Rib Eye Joint. Lidl Ireland & Northern Ireland won Own Label Range of the Year for The Bakery, while Lidl Ireland were named Christmas Retailer of the Year. Their Albariño D.O. Rías Baixas won Drinks Product of the Year. Sysco’s Irish Hereford Prime Certified Carvery Rib Bone In was named Foodservice Product of the Year, while Fleur de Lan won Small Producer of the Year.
The 2026 awards also introduced new Health & Nutrition categories, reflecting the development of the category and the increasing range of products responding to consumer interest in health and wellbeing. The new categories cover better-for-you food and drink, functional foods and drinks, health and wellness beverages, fermented and pickled foods, and low and no-alcohol drinks. Rigorous judging process “A ‘Q’ Award is designed to mean something,” revealed Atma Hyett, Brand Director. “Every product recognised this year has been through our rigorous judging process, assessed by independent industry experts against our established criteria. “That depth of scrutiny is fundamental to
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Ireland’s Quality Food & Drink Awards 2026
All the Gold Award winners at Ireland’s Quality Food & Drink Awards 2026.
Aldi Ireland won the Retailer of the Year Award. Pictured are: Richard Watts, Managing Director, Ireland Quality Food & Drink Awards; Louise Duffy, Communications Manager, Aldi Ireland; Aoife Habenicht, Buying Director, Aldi Ireland; Chloe McNabb, Communications Executive, Aldi Ireland; Peter Bough, Buying Director, Aldi Ireland; Laurence Kelly, Buying Director, Aldi Ireland; Billy Carr, Buying Director, Aldi Ireland; and event MC Rachel Allen, celebrity chef & author.
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Ireland’s Quality Food & Drink Awards 2026 Double Award Success for Fleur de Lan DUBLIN based artisan bakery Fleur de Lan are celebrating double success at the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards 2026, winning Small Producer of the Year and a Gold Award for their signature Croissant Crisps. Founded by pastry chef Lan, the brand combines traditional French baking techniques with creativity and a passion for quality ingredients. Their award-winning Croissant Crisps offer a distinctive twist on classic French pâtisserie, transforming the buttery, flaky character of croissants into a deliciously crispy treat. Already exporting to the UK, Fleur de Lan continue to grow, bringing their artisan creations to customers beyond Ireland.
Four wins for Our Brewery NORTHERN Ireland’s Our Brewery are celebrating four awards at this year’s Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards, recognising the quality and character of their beers across the Lager and Ales categories. Leading the celebrations is Pressure to Pick, taking home Gold, followed by Do You Wanna Funk with Silver. Modern Love and Hang Up Your Hang Ups each received Bronze.
Our Brewery picked up four awards at the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards.
Croissant Crisps from Fleur de Lan are a delicious twist on a French classic, winning a Gold Q.
Brewed in Randalstown, Co. Antrim, Our Brewery focus on producing distinctive, high-quality beers that stand out and deliver on flavour. Together with previous Great Taste and World Beer Awards success, these latest accolades highlight the brewery’s commitment to quality, craftsmanship and independent brewing.
We like them onions from Castlecor! CASTLECOR Potatoes are extremely proud of their onions, which they have been growing in north Co. Cork since 2016. They grow onions from seed, sets and overwintered sets, to ensure continuity of supply. Castlecor were delighted to be recognized with a bronze award in the vegetable category of the recent Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards.
Award-winning Irish grown onions from Castlecor Potatoes in north Cork. “We are a family run business that believe that Irish grown onions have a fuller, richer flavour than their continental counterparts,” reveals founder Ned English. “We are passionate about growing Irish produce, which we believe plays an essential role in Ireland’s long-term sustainability and food security.”
what a ‘Q’ Award represents: not simply a trophy, but a trusted, independent mark of quality that businesses can proudly take back to their teams, customers, buyers, and consumers. Congratulations to every finalist and, of course, to our 2026 winners.” A showcase of quality The Awards ceremony also provided an opportunity to showcase products from a number of the awards’ sponsors. Oishii Sushi supplied sushi, Bellaville Farm provided mini goat burgers, and Bluebell Falls supplied goats cheese, as well as sponsoring the afterparty photobooth. O’Donnell’s Crisps provided a range of products, including a new flavour created in collaboration with Rachel Allen, while ABP supplied the beef for the main course and Glastry Farm provided the ice cream and sorbet for dessert. Products from Longbridge Drinks, Blanco Niño and Our Brewery were included in the guest gift bags, alongside prominent sponsor and partner branding throughout the venue. Retail News , Food Matters Live, Atma Hyett, Brand Director, Ireland Quality Food & Drink Awards.
Northern Ireland.
Bringing our world-class food and drink to your table. When you source food and drink from Northern Ireland you can be sure of its pure, natural, quality. That’s why Invest Northern Ireland’s Food and Drink division works with local producers to help them take their products around the world. Whether it’s helping companies to find new markets in the Republic of Ireland, or working with UK supply chains to drive new sales, Invest NI partners with our local producers to help them identify new trends, bring forward innovative products and grow their business. Learn how you can serve our quality food and drink.
Northern Ireland. Altogether more. investni.com/foodanddrink
For further information contact Jen Guiney, Invest NI E: Jen.Guiney@investni.com M: +44 79 8511 1024
Grand Central Hotel, Belfast, Co. Antrim
We work with NI producers to help identify new trends, bring forward innovative products and grow their business.
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Ireland’s Quality Food & Drink Awards 2026 Mushrooms & Love strike silver MONAGHAN’S fun-guys at Mushrooms & Love struck Silver again at the Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards 2026 for their Mushroom Crisps and Blissful Mushroom Coffee, before adding Bronze (Crisps) and Silver (Coffee) at Blas na hÉireann 2026 just 10 days later. The crisps crunch in Seavoury, Shroom and Sweet Chilli flavours. Blissful Mushroom Coffee blends single-origin Colombian beans with functional mushrooms for a brew that’s a cut above. All in fully recyclable packaging. Make shroom on your shelf! Order through Wholefoods Wholesale, Founder Food Co., Bia West or direct from Richard: 087 384 0900. Email: info@mushroomsandlove.com. Web: mushroomsandlove.ie.
Hat trick of awards for The Daily Apron THE 2026 Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards proved extra special for Lisburn’s The Daily Apron, who won three Gold Q Awards in just three years. “We only entered for the first time three years ago so this had really motivated our team and assured them that their hard work is paying off,” said a delighted Katrina Collins, co-owner. “To be able to share a stage with large companies and other independent businesses who are celebrated for the quality of their products is a confidence boost for our business. Given the rigorous judging process, our Gold and Bronze awards mean everything to us”. For more information, email: bakery@thdailyapron.com.
The Gold Q winning Chocolate and Cinnamon Sourdough from The Daily Apron.
The Daily Apron’s stunning Morning Bun.
The Q Award winning Mushroom Crisps and Blissful Mushroom Coffee from Mushrooms & Love. and the Irish Food Trade Connect Forum were also supporting partners for the 2026 awards. The awards’ partnership with Dublin Simon Community also continued in 2026, with surplus food from the judging process donated to the charity. The organisation supports people experiencing homelessness and food insecurity in Dublin. The 2026 results demonstrate the breadth of businesses represented across the awards, with major retailers and own-label ranges recognised alongside independent producers and foodservice businesses. The introduction of the new Health & Nutrition categories also reflects the continued development of the Irish food and drink market and the range of products now competing within it. Congratulations to all the winners of this year’s Ireland Quality Food & Drink Awards!
Bellaville Farm provided delicious mini goat burger canapes.
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Ireland’s Quality Food & Drink Awards 2026 Bluebell Falls Goat’s Cheese
Lan Luan of Fleur de Lan celebrates being named Small Producer of the Year.
BLUEBELL Falls is a multi-awardwinning goat’s cheese producer, handmade in Co. Cork and trusted by retailers who demand the very best. Their range includes Cygnus logs in Original and Honey, Garlic & Thyme, soft cheese tubs and goat’s cheese crumbles, with full private label solutions tailored to your brand. Their BRC-accredited production meets the highest global standards for food safety, and the company’s Origin Green membership reflects their commitment to sustainable farming. Winner of a 2026 Quality Award for their Bluebell Falls Goat’s Cheese Original 500g, they deliver exceptional taste with the consistency and scale major retailers need.
Bluebell Falls is built on a commitment to quality, tradition, and sustainability.
Brendan Conway, Senior Buying Director at Lidl Ireland, with members of Lidl's Commercial team who were named Christmas Retailer of the Year at the Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards.
Keeling Juices Fresh Lemonade strikes Gold KEELING F. Juices Ltd were awarded Gold at the 2026 Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards for their Keeling Juices Fresh Lemonade 1Ltr. Made in the traditional style and produced fresh at the company's facility in Ballyboughal, North County Dublin, the lemonade contains no preservatives. It delivers a naturally refreshing, zesty taste that reflects the brand's promise: ‘The Fresh Taste of Nature’. The award recognises Keeling's continued commitment to quality ingredients, Irish production and greattasting, natural drinks. Keeling Juices Fresh Lemonade 1Ltr is available now in the chilled section of a number of leading Irish retailers.
The Gold Q winning Keeling Juices Fresh Lemonade 1Ltr delivers a naturally refreshing, zesty taste.
Event MC Rachel Allen.
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Ireland’s Quality Food & Drink Awards 2026 IQFDA26 Gold Winners • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Aldi Specialy Selected Irish Wagyu Rib Eye Joint, ABP Cahir Lidl Deluxe Irish Angus Chateaubriand with Garlic & Herb butters 32 Days, Liffey Meats Lidl Deluxe Irish Cheese Hamper - Vintage Cheddar, Traditional Cheese Company Papas Mineral Co. Spiced Winterberry Cordial, Longbridge Drinks Co., Belfast Lidl Deluxe Extra Large Chicken with Bacon Lattice & Festive Stuffing, Manor Farm Lidl Deluxe Cranberry Sauce Orange, Folláin Our Brewery - Pressure to Pick - Italian Pilsner Lidl The Crafty Brewing Company Belgian Style Saison, Rye River Fierce Mild Non-Alc Extra Pale Ale, Fierce Mild Brewing Aldi Champagne Brut, Alliance Wines Aldi Specially Selected Chilean Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon, Vina Luis Felipe Edwards Ltd Aldi St Emilion Grand Cru, Lacheteau Aldi Specially Selected Picpoul de Pinet, Alliance Wines Lidl Albariño D.O Rías Baixas 13%, Adega Condes Lidl Deluxe NZ Premium Pinot Gris Gisborne 12.5%, Lidl Stiftung Long Meadow Farm Apple Cider Vinegar, Long Meadow Farm Sysco 10oz Irish Hereford Prime Rib Eye Steak, ABP Cahir Sysco Irish Hereford Prime Certified Carvery Rib Bone In, ABP Cahir Sysco Irish Hereford Prime Rib Eye Roasting Joint Sysco Irish Hereford Prime Tomahawk Steak, ABP Cahir Long Meadow Farm Pure Apple Juice, Long Meadow Farm Hazelnut & Chocolate Spread, Mór Taste Umber Plus, James Mackle Dromod Pancakes Chocolate and Cinnamon Sourdough, The Daily Apron Lidl San Francisco Sourdough Bloomer, Pandriks Bake Off Aldi Specially Selected Vintage Cheddar 24 Month, Carbery Greek Style Natural Yogurt , Irish Yogurts Clonakilty
The after-party carried on at 37 Dawson Street.
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Aldi Specially Selected Angus Topside of Beef, Glen Aine No Added Nitrites Traditional Ham, Divilly Brothers Aldi Specially Selected Luxury Irish Belgian Chocolate Ice Cream, Silver Pail Dairy Aldi Irish Apples, Iverk Produce Aldi Specially Selected Baby Potaotes, Iverk Produce Aldi Butchers Selection Irish Beef Sirloin Roast, ABP Cahir Aldi Specially Selected Irish Wagyu Beef Meatballs, ABP Cahir Aldi Specially Selected Slow Roasted Aromatic Duck Fillets with Orange Sauce, Silver Hill Duck Aldi Specially Selected Slow Roasted Confit Duck Fillets with Plum Sauce, Silver Hill Duck M&S Wagyu Beef Fillet Steak, ABP Cahir Lidl Deluxe Lamb Rump Roast with Sea Salt, Garlic & Rosemary, Dawn Meats Lidl Deluxe West of Ireland Lamb Leg, Dawn Meats Aldi Specially Selected Whole Irish Chicken with Winter Fruits Stuffing dressed with Bacon Lattice, Manor Farm Lidl Deluxe Irish Corn Fed Whole Chicken, Manor Farm Aldi Butcher's Selection Beef Ribeye Steak, ABP Reserve Collection 10oz Irish Angus Sirloin Steak with Marrow Melt, ABP Cahir M&S Irish Angus Beef Striploin Steak, ABP Cahir Goodfella's New York Style Hot & Spicy Meat Feast Pizza, Bird's Eye Croissant Crisps Caramel Flavour, Fleur de Lan O'Donnells Crinkle Cut Mature Cheese & Red Onion Crisps O'Donnells Mature Cheese & Red Onion Crisps Shamrock & Sour Cream Potato Crisps, Keogh's Crisps TranquiliTea Berry Bliss, TranquiliTea Wellness Beverages TranquiliTea Tropical Calm, TranquiliTea Wellness Beverages Fresh Lemonade, Keeling F Juices Lidl Naturis Cold Pressed Strawberry & Banana Smoothie, Fruity Line Piña Colada Spread, Mór Taste Lidl Deluxe Mango Chutney, Geetas
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Ireland’s Quality Food & Drink Awards 2026
Red Bull launches new Winter Edition Red Bull has launched new limited edition Red Bull Winter Edition: Pistachio & Berries. RED Bull has launched Red Bull Winter Edition: Pistachio & Berries, a new limited-time seasonal flavour available at participating retail and hospitality locations across the island of Ireland. The 2026 Winter Edition combines the taste of pistachio and berries, balanced by a blend of caramel with nutty and creamy undertones. Created as a new and separate product from previous Winter Edition releases, it brings a distinct flavour to the Red Bull range for the winter season. Red Bull Winter Edition: Pistachio & Berries contains the same key ingredients as Red Bull Energy Drink, offered in a different flavour. It joins the permanent Red Bull Energy Drink range for a limited time, adding to the choice of Red Bull Editions available to consumers. The new edition is presented in a distinctive Red Bull Pistachio Green can. The packaging gives the 2026 release its own identity, while retaining the familiar Red Bull branding across the wider portfolio. Red Bull Winter Edition: Pistachio & Berries is available now at participating retail and hospitality locations across the island of Ireland, while stocks last. Phenomenal success story More than 13.9 billion cans of Red Bull were sold worldwide in 2025. The Winter Edition joins a global portfolio that includes Red Bull Energy Drink and the expanding Red Bull Editions range, offering consumers the brand’s key ingredients across different flavours. Available in over 175 countries worldwide, Red Bull’s expanding range of editions and beyond the ordinary marketing strategy continues to wing its way into Irish consumers’ hearts, minds and shopping baskets. Founded in 1987, Red Bull established the energy drinks product category, promising to vitalise body and mind. It is appreciated worldwide by top athletes, students and in highly demanding professions, as well as during long drives. Supporting Irish athletes Giving wings to people and ideas, Red Bull is a proud supporter of Irish athletes, including Formula 3 driver Fionn McLaughlin, hockey goalkeeper Ayeisha McFerran, surfer Conor Maguire, drifter Conor Shanahan, swimmer Daniel Wiffen, mountain bikers Greg Callaghan and Ronan Dunne, and gymnast Rhys McClenaghan. Visit www.redbull.ie for more inspiring content and follow @RedBullIre on Instagram and TikTok to stay up to date with the latest action and events.
New limited edition Red Bull Winter Edition: Pistachio & Berries is available now at participating retail and hospitality locations across the island of Ireland, while stocks last.
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Forecourt Focus: News Texaco launch sixth ‘Support for Sport’ initiative THE Texaco Support for Sport funding initiative, which to date has seen over €600,000 distributed to more than 125 sports clubs across Ireland, has been launched for the sixth year. Under the scheme, hosted by Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited, the company that markets fuel in Ireland under the Texaco brand, a fund of €130,000 will Donncha O’Callaghan, be distributed to twenty-six Texaco Support for Sport sports clubs on a county-byambassador, TV presenter county basis, with successful and former Irish rugby star, applicants receiving €5,000 in is leading the adjudication each case. process. Open to sports clubs across the 26 counties, irrespective of sporting discipline, size, membership, age, cultural appeal or gender (including clubs that may have been unsuccessful in their application previously), the initiative is one that recognises and supports the valuable contribution that sports clubs make to communities and throughout Irish society as a whole. Clubs that have received funding to date span the spectrum of Irish sporting activity. Amongst them are archery, athletics, badminton, basketball, bowling, bowls, boxing, camogie, climbing, cricket, cycling, diving, GAA, Gaelic football, golf, gymnastics,
handball, hockey, hurling, inline hockey, kayaking, rowing, rugby, soccer, squash, swimming, and tennis. Launching the 2026 initiative, James Twohig, Director of Ireland Operations, Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited, described sports clubs as “an integral part of communities across Ireland, where people of all ages can enjoy the many physical, social and personal benefits that sport brings.” He went on to say that Valero are proud to provide “a significant source of funding for sports clubs, to help them continue the outstanding work they do for their members and communities. Every club has its own ambitions and challenges, and we are pleased that the Texaco Support for Sport initiative can play a part in helping them achieve their goals.” Leading the adjudication process once again is Texaco Support for Sport ambassador, broadcaster and former Irish rugby international, Donncha O’Callaghan, who said: “What makes the Texaco Support for Sport initiative so worthwhile is that every club has an equal opportunity to secure funding, regardless of its size, sporting discipline or competitive success. It gives clubs the chance to access support that can make a genuine difference to their future.” Highlighting the positive impact the initiative can have for clubs of all sizes, particularly those involved in minority sports, he added: “I’m looking forward to reviewing the 2026 applications and seeing how clubs plan to use this funding to improve facilities, encourage greater participation and strengthen their role within their local communities.” The application process is now open online at www.TexacoSupportforSport.com.
Maxol invest €2.6 million in Dooradoyle upgrade MAXOL recently announced a €2.6 million investment in their Dooradoyle service station in Co. Limerick, as part of the company’s ongoing nationwide investment and redevelopment programme. The significant redevelopment, which commenced in June and is scheduled for completion in November, will transform the Dooradoyle location into a modern convenience destination with an expanded retail offering, a wide array of food options and enhanced customer facilities. The investment includes a full refurbishment of the service station, alongside a 50% increase in the overall building size. As part of the redevelopment, customers will benefit from the introduction of a new Burger King restaurant, the addition of the Dunnes Stores Simply Better range, a 40% larger seating area, and a significantly enhanced Maxol Market Deli, which has been greatly expanded to provide customers with even more choice and convenience. “We're delighted to see this major investment in Dooradoyle, which will further elevate the experience for our valued customers,” noted Kieran O'Shea, Licensee at Maxol Dooradoyle. “The expanded shop, improved deli, larger seating area, and exciting new food offering will create a more welcoming and convenient destination and give customers more choice. Siobhán, the team, and I are looking forward to the completion of work, and to welcoming locals and commuters to our new-look store.” The Dooradoyle redevelopment forms part of Maxol's wider investment programme across their network, focused on delivering high-quality facilities that combine convenience, food, retail and fuel services under one roof. “We're especially excited to bring both Burger King and the
Dunnes Stores range to Dooradoyle,” revealed Brian Donaldson, CEO of The Maxol Group. “Burger King continues to be one of our most popular food service partners, and we're delighted that customers in Limerick will now Pictured on site at Maxol Dooradoyle be able to enjoy it as part of their visit. The are licensees Kieran & Siobhán Dunnes Stores range, O'Shea, with Maxol Group CEO Brian Donaldson, alongside John Hadnett, including Simply Maxol Regional Manager, and Alan Better favourites, Pollock, Group Premises Development has also proven Manager, Maxol Group. incredibly popular at selected stores in our network, and we're pleased to include this premium offering in our first Munster location. “At Maxol, we are continually investing in our network to ensure we deliver the highest standards of convenience, quality and customer service. The investment in Dooradoyle represents one of our most significant redevelopment projects and reflects our longterm commitment to providing modern, welcoming service stations that meet the needs of local communities and motorists alike. With Kieran, Siobhán and their team at the helm, I’m sure it’s going to be a successful revamp, which customers will love.”
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Forecourt Focus: News Applegreen open new €15 million Naas Ball service area CUSTOMERS queued from 3am in the morning on September 29, as Applegreen opened their new €15 million roadside service area close to the Naas Ball at Junction 9 on the M7. Applegreen have created 150 new jobs at the Naas site, which includes Popeyes and Taco Bell outlets, M&S Food, Crafted Kitchen & Deli, Braeburn Coffee, and an Applegreen forecourt and convenience store. The Popeyes outlet in Naas is the first Popeyes
Sean Carey from Naas pictured at the opening of Taco Bell at Applegreen Naas Ball, where he was one of the first three people in the queue and received one year of free Burrito Meals from Taco Bell.
Pictured are: Seamus Stapleton, Managing Director Republic of Ireland, Applegreen; Noelle Coyne, Regional Manager, Applegreen; and Joe Barrett, Group Chief Executive, Applegreen, at the opening of Applegreen’s new €15 million Naas site.
Drive-Thru in the Republic of Ireland, and Applegreen will open an additional Drive-Thru brand at the site later this year. The site also has eight Applegreen Fast Charge ultra-fast EV chargers with a total of 16 charging points, and a separate truck stop for HGV fuelling. “We’re thrilled to have opened our new service area in Naas, and we were delighted to welcome so many customers this morning,” said Seamus Stapleton, Managing Director of Applegreen’s Republic of Ireland business. Three customers were rewarded with free Popeyes Chicken Sandwiches for a year, while another three customers received free Taco Bell Burrito Meals for a year. Hundreds of customers also availed of free food from Popeyes, Taco Bell and Crafted Kitchen & Deli. There was free merchandise available for customers. Popeyes provided entertainment for customers on the opening day, with a brass band in the morning and a DJ in the afternoon. Over the past 12 months, Applegreen have introduced both Popeyes and Taco Bell to their Irish operations. Applegreen have also continued to expand the reach of their partnership with M&S Food, which is now available at 43 Applegreen locations, and are also growing both their Braeburn Coffee brand and their Crafted Kitchen & Deli offer.
Texaco Children’s Art Competition winners showcased in Kildare KILDARE’S busy motorway services hub, Junction 14 Mayfield, is the venue for an exhibition of the top 21 award-winning artworks from this year’s 72nd Texaco Children’s Art Competition, running until November 1. Situated off the M7 motorway near Monasterevin, Junction 14 Mayfield is displaying a ‘colourful gallery of artistic achievement’ where each of the 21 winning works feature in 1.5 metres-tall, window-size formats, enabling the many thousands of customers who visit the venue daily to view the exhibition on their travels. Opening the exhibition, Liam Fitzpatrick, co-owner of Junction 14 Mayfield, praised the artworks on show: “It’s a pleasure to showcase the remarkable talents of Ireland’s young artists and to be able to give Pictured are: James Twohig, Director of Operation, customers from our local communities of Kildare and Laois, and other Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited; Pauline O’Connell, Final Adjudicator of the Texaco Children’s Art Competition; counties, the opportunity to appreciate such outstanding work.” Mary Therese Fitzpatrick, co-owner of Junction 14 Counties whose artists are represented amongst the works being displayed are: Cork, Down, Dublin, Galway, Kilkenny, Laois, Limerick, Mayfield; Laois student artist, Abdul Ahad Zulfiqar; and local art teachers Sandra Doyle and Ciara Connolly. Louth, Meath, Offaly, Wexford and Wicklow.
34|Retail News|October 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Inver Retail Conference & Awards
Inver reward forecourt excellence Inver recently celebrated their partners at the Inver 2026 Retail Conference & Awards, which highlighted the exceptional standards across the forecourt network. INVER brought their forecourt partners together at The Europe Hotel & Resort in Killarney on September 24 for their 2026 Retail Conference and Awards. The event provided an opportunity to discuss the issues shaping Ireland’s fuel and forecourt sector, and to recognise the people and businesses that contribute to the strength of the Inver network. Inver Retail Conference 2026 The Conference programme covered a range of key topics; fuel market conditions, supply and risk dynamics, regulatory developments, and the transition towards lower carbon transport fuels. Speakers set out the practical resources available to Inver dealers, including the dependability of the supply chain, operational support and safety and compliance tools. The event also marked the tenth anniversary of ‘Leading Lights’, Inver’s community programme, which enables forecourt partners to help organisations in the communities surrounding their service stations. “Meeting our forecourt partners faceto-face, hearing about their experiences and understanding the opportunities and challenges they encounter is hugely important to us,” explained John O’Leary, Inver’s Managing Director. “This event, dedicated to our dealers, created space for
meaningful conversations, helping us to strengthen our relationships and continue working together to develop the Inver network.” Kevin McPartlan, Chief Executive Officer of Fuels for Ireland, joined the event as guest speaker, sharing his perspective on the future of transport fuels. “Ireland’s fuel and forecourt sector is operating in a period of significant change,” Kevin noted. “Events such as this are valuable because they allow the industry to discuss the market openly, understand the direction of travel, and consider how businesses can continue to serve customers reliably as the transition in transport fuels develops.” Inver Retail Awards 2026 The Inver Retail Awards saw the presentation of 10 awards recognising the high standards, community involvement and individual contributions of dealers and colleagues across the network. Winners included: • Murphy’s Inver Dromcummer, Co. Cork, winner of ‘Neighbourhood Forecourt of the Year’; • O’Brien’s Inver Bishopstown, Co. Cork, who won ‘Destination Forecourt of the Year’; • Inver Castlecomer Road, Co. Kilkenny,
which was named ‘Store of the Year’ for Company Owned and Operated Forecourts. Dempsey’s Inver Portarlington, Co. Laois, received the evening’s highest honour, being crowned Forecourt of the Year, as well as winning Community Forecourt of the Year. The award showcases the exceptional standards maintained across the forecourt, the commitment of the team in Portarlington and their genuine connection with customers and the local community. “This is a wonderful achievement for our team,” said Linda Dempsey of Dempsey’s Inver Portarlington. “We take great pride in the forecourt we have built, the people behind it, and the role we play in the local community, so it is fantastic to see that recognised. We also greatly value our partnership with Inver and the support we received from them since the day we joined.” Another highlight of the evening was Farrell’s Inver Tyrrellspass, Co. Westmeath, led by Jamie Farrell, receiving the ‘Heart of the Community Award’. The forecourt supports local schools and community causes, while also hosting an annual Christmas dinner for families in need. Jamie’s continued involvement, together
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Inver Retail Conference & Awards
Pictured are (l-r): John O’Leary, Managing Director of Inver; Linda Dempsey and Roy Dempsey of Dempsey’s Inver Portarlington, winner of the Forecourt of the Year and Community Forecourt of the Year awards; and Adam Traeger, CEO of Greenergy. with the forecourt’s support for local initiatives, reflects the important role they play in the community. The People Awards recognised colleagues making a strong contribution across the Inver network. Sarah Flynn of Inver Castlegregory, Co. Kerry, was named ‘Team Member of the Year’, Gaven O’Connor of Inver Adams of Glin, Co. Limerick, received the ‘Manager of the Year’ award, and Natalia Buszta of Inver Clane, Co. Kildare, was named ‘Rising Star of the Year’. Tom Ryan was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his successful career and longstanding involvement in the forecourt industry. Over the years, Tom has built an impressive portfolio, including three Inver service stations at Lahinch Road, Co. Clare, Inver Newport, Co. Tipperary, and Inver Askeaton, Co. Limerick. Tom is highly respected for his
Pictured are (l-r): John O’Leary, Managing Director of Inver; Lifetime Achievement Award winner Tom Ryan, with Anne Keyes, Daniel Hogan, Joe Greensmith, Brian Hanly, Eithne Hanly and Jennifer Greensmith; and Adam Traeger, CEO of Greenergy.
Pictured are (l-r): Agnieszka Maslanka, Inver Clane, with Keith McGouran, Inver’s Area Sales Manager, and Inver Clane team members Natalia Buszta (Rising Star of the Year winner), Wasif Ali and Szymon Maslanka.
John O’Leary (left), Managing Director of Inver, and Adam Traeger (right), CEO of Greenergy, present Anthony and Michelle O’Brien of O’Brien’s Inver Bishopstown with the ‘Destination Forecourt of the Year’ award.
Pictured are (l-r): John O’Leary, Managing Director of Inver; Jamie Farrell of Farrell’s Inver Tyrrellspass, winner of the ‘Heart of the Community Award’; and Adam Traeger, CEO of Greenergy.
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Inver Retail Conference & Awards professionalism, admirable work ethic, consistently high standards, and positive attitude. The award recognised his many years of dedication, his achievements as a business owner, and the important role he plays within the local communities he serves. Winners and finalists The Inver Retail Awards 2026 recognised 10 winners selected from across Inver’s network of 121 service stations, with 33 finalists shortlisted across the categories. Ben Lenihan, Inver’s Retail Fuels Director, hosted the awards ceremony, while John O’Leary and Adam Traeger, Chief Executive Officer of Greenergy, presented the winners with their awards. The high standard of this year’s finalists reflected the strength of the businesses, teams and individuals across the Inver network. Congratulations to all the winners and finalists.
Award category
Winners and Finalists
Neighbourhood Winner Forecourt of Finalists the Year
Murphy’s Inver Dromcummer, Co. Cork O’Flaherty’s Inver Dingle, Co. Kerry Cooney’s Inver Coachford, Co. Cork Mee’s Inver Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon
Community Forecourt of the Year
Winner
Dempsey’s Inver Portarlington, Co. Laois
Finalists
O’Donovan’s Inver Leemount Cross, Co. Cork
Destination Forecourt of the Year
Winner
O’Brien’s Inver Bishopstown, Co. Cork
Finalists
Ryan’s Inver Fermoy, Co. Cork
Store of the Year (Company Owned and Operated)
Winner
Inver Castlecomer Road, Co. Kilkenny
Finalists
Inver Charleville, Co. Cork
Heart of the Community Award
Winner
Farrell’s Inver Tyrrellspass, Co. Westmeath
Finalists
Lynch’s Inver Freshford, Co. Kilkenny
Team Member of the Year
Winner
Keane’s Inver Caherlistrane, Co. Galway Inver Adams of Glin, Co. Limerick
Gleeson’s Inver Punches Cross, Co. Limerick Ryan’s Inver Newport, Co. Tipperary
Inver Macroom Junction, Co. Cork Inver Bansha Road, Co. Tipperary
Meade’s Inver Rathkeale, Co. Limerick Sharkey’s Inver Tuam, Co. Galway Sarah Flynn, Inver Castlegregory, Co. Kerry
Nominees Finn Crowley, Broderick’s Inver Shanagarry, Co. Cork Vijaya Gummalla, Inver Clane, Co. Kildare Catherine Allinson, Farrell’s Inver Tyrrellspass, Co. Westmeath Natalia Zaniewska, Behan’s Inver Castledermot, Co. Kildare
Manager of the Year
Winner
Gaven O’Connor, Inver Adams of Glin, Co. Limerick
Nominees Siobhan Willis, Behan’s Inver Castledermot, Co. Kildare Agnieszka Maslanka, Inver Clane, Co. Kildare Claire O’Brien, Broderick’s Inver Shanagarry, Co. Cork Anthony Tute, Farrell’s Inver Tyrrellspass, Co. Westmeath
Pictured are (l-r): John O’Leary, Managing Director of Inver; Ann Marie Maher, Forecourt and Store Manager at Inver Castlecomer Road, which was named ‘Store of the Year’ for Company Owned and Operated Forecourts; and Adam Traeger, CEO of Greenergy.
Pictured from Adams of Glin are (l-r): Shane Adams, Nodlaig Adams, Gaven O’Connor (‘Manager of the Year’ award winner), and Eva O’Connor.
Rising Star of the Year
Winner
Natalia Buszta, Inver Clane, Co. Kildare
Nominees Abbie Murphy, Behan’s Inver Castledermot, Co. Kildare Anca Muresanu, Broderick’s Inver Shanagarry, Co. Cork Lifetime Achievement Award
Winner
Tom Ryan, Inver Lahinch Road, Co. Clare, Inver Newport, Co. Tipperary, and Inver Askeaton, Co. Limerick
Forecourt of the Year
Winner
Dempsey’s Inver Portarlington, Co. Laois
Irene and Jeremy Murphy of Murphy’s Pictured are (l-r): Inver’s Managing Director John O’Leary, Lorraine McCannon, Sarah Inver Dromcummer, accept the Flynn (‘Team Member of the Year’ award Neighbourhood Forecourt of the Year award, from John O’Leary (left), winner) and Paul McCannon of Inver Managing Director of Inver, and Adam Castlegregory and Greenergy’s CEO Adam Traeger. Traeger (right), CEO of Greenergy.
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38|Retail News|October 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2026
NOffLA uncork wine winners
A Spanish rioja and Chilean pinot noir were the overall winners at the Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2026. THE National Off-Licence Association (NOffLA) has awarded its annual Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2026 to 25 wines. Now in its 25th year, the event was hosted at Fallon & Byrne in Dublin 2. The winning wines from the Irish Wine Show Star Awards will be available to consumers from NOffLA outlets across Ireland. In excess of 600 wines were submitted to the Star Award adjudication panel of NOffLA judges and independent wine journalists. Points were awarded on the basis of appearance, smell, taste and value for money criteria, and the winning 25 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 2026-2027 Collection as ideal Christmas gifts, in a variety of special gift packs. “We are delighted to honour the outstanding wines that NOffLA members sell across the country, with wines from Europe, South Africa and South America dominating the winning categories,” revealed Cathal McHugh, Chairman of NOffLA. At the event, NOffLA welcomed the Minister for Health’s recent decision to ban retailers from offering discounted prices on alcohol products through the use of loyalty cards from March 2028. This is directly in line with the Public Health (Alcohol) Act 2018 (Sale and Supply of Alcohol Products) and outlaws unfair trading practices that small off-licences cannot compete with.
Sarah Richey, Cassidy Wines, accepts the Wine of the Year Award for Baron Philippe de Rothschild Escudo Rojo Gran Reserva Pinot Noir 2023.
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Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2026 Irish Wine Show Star Award Winners Category
Baron Philippe de Rothschild Escudo Rojo Gran Reserva Pinot Noir, from Cassidy Wines, winner of the Wine of the Year Award. High alcohol excise putting Irish retailers at risk At the event, NOffLA highlighted the strong concern among its members that Ireland continues to levy the second highest excise duty on wine across the EU and UK. The Association had hoped to see a reduction
Wine Name
Vintage Country
Company
Old World White under Atlantique Sauvignon Blanc €12
2024
France
Comans Beverages Limited
Old World White under Bendico Grillo €15
2025
Italy
Mackenway Wines
Old World White under €20
Cantina di Monteforte, Soave Classico Superiore, `Vigneto Montegrande`
2024
Italy
Liberty Wines Ltd.
Old World White under €30
Conde Valdemar Tempranillo Blanco DOCa Rioja
2025
Spain
Febvre Wines
Old World Red under €12
Perdido Cabernet Sauvignon
2024
Spain
Dalcassian Wines and Spirits Ltd
Old World Red under €15
Poderi dal Nespoli Sangiovese Romagna DOC Organic
2023
Italy
Febvre Wines
Old World Red under €20
Cune Reserva
2020
Spain
Santa Rita Estates
Old World Red under €30
Bodegas Luis Canas, Rioja Reserva
2019
Spain
Tindal Wine Merchants
New World White Under €12
Santa Carolina Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc
2026
Chile
Dalcassian Wines and Spirits Ltd
New World White Under €15
Wild Garden Chenin Blanc
2025
South Africa
Mackenway Wines
New World White Under €20
Peter Lehmann Hill & Valley Chardonnay Eden Valley
2023
Australia
Febvre Wines
New World White Under €30
Peter Lehmann Masters Wigan Riesling Eden Valley
2018
Australia
Febvre Wines
New World Red under €12
Santa Carolina Cellar Selection Cabernet Sauvignon
2025
Chile
Dalcassian Wines and Spirits Ltd
New World Red under €15
Beyond Shadows
NV
Argentina
Santa Rita Estates
New World Red under €20
Altos las Hormigas 'Colonia las Liebres' Bonarda Clasica
2025
Argentina
Liberty Wines Ltd.
New World Red under €30
Baron Philippe de Rothschild Escudo Rojo Gran Reserva Pinot Noir
2023
Chile
Cassidy Wines DAC
Rose Under €20
Astros, ' La Belle Vie Rosé'
2025
France
Tindal Wine Merchants
Sparkling Under €30
Marquis de Goulaine Crémant NV de Loire Brut
France
Cassidy Wines DAC
Champagne Under €80
Alfred Gratien Brut NV
NV
France
Findlater & Co.
Orange Wine Under €30
Tomás Cusiné 'Pell de Llop', Macabeu' Skin Contact
2024
Spain
Tindal Wine Merchants
Non-alcoholic Red Under €15
Chavin Zéro Cabernet Merlot Vin de France
2025
France
Febvre Wines
Non-alcoholic White Under €15
Santa Rita 120 Zero Sauvignon Blanc
NV
Chile
Santa Rita Estates
Non-alcoholic Sparkling Under €15
Chavin Zéro Sparkling Blanc de Blancs Vin de France
2025
France
Febvre Wines
White Wine of the Year
Conde Valdemar Tempranillo Blanco DOCa Rioja Baron Philippe de Rothschild Escudo Rojo Gran Reserva Pinot Noir
2025
Spain
Febvre Wines
2023
Chile
Cassidy Wines DAC
John Bradley, Febvre, accepts the White Wine of the Year Wine of the Year Award for Conde Valdemar Tempranillo Blanco DOCa Rioja 2025.
40|Retail News|October 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2026
Winner in the Best Sparkling Wine Under €30 category was Marquis de Goulaine Crémant de Loire Brut from Cassidy Wines.
in excise duty as part of Budget 2027, which would have helped to ease the high cost burdens experienced by many independent off-licences over the past year. “Ireland has the second-highest alcohol excise in the EU and UK, with wine excise 5.7 times that of Belgium and 2.8 times that of Denmark,” Cathal McHugh noted. “NOffLA supports an all-island approach to Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP), indexed to inflation. With MUP in place, Ireland's punitive excise levels can no longer be justified on public health grounds."
unnecessary burdens on the Irish drinks industry. “We welcome the delay to the implementation of the Alcohol Labelling regulations under the Public Health (Alcohol) Act,” explained Cathal McHugh. “However, we continue to call for the Government to follow a harmonised EU approach to alcohol labelling. A coordinated European framework would prevent Irish businesses being placed at a competitive disadvantage compared to their European counterparts and ensure consistency across the Single Market.”
Continued engagement with government On licensing reform, regarding the Sale of Alcohol Bill 2022 and the Intoxicating Liquor Bill 2024, NOffLA continues to engage directly with the Government on licensing, particularly on provisions governing online and distance alcohol sales. NOffLA also addressed the government’s decision to postpone the implementation of mandatory alcohol health warning labels until September 2028, under section 12 of the Public Health (Alcohol) Act 2018. While NOffLA welcomed the postponement, they also renewed their call for Ireland to align its approach with the EU to avoid placing
About NOffLA: NOffLA was established in 1991 and represents independent specialist offlicences across Ireland, with the sector representing 5,900 jobs in 26 counties. NOffLA works to promote the responsible sale, marketing and consumption of alcohol and to share best practices with the entire trade. NOffLA’s members’ outlets are specialist or pure off-licences and tend to be owneroperated, located in the heart of their communities and employ expertise in responsibly retailing many unique products. For more information, visit NOffLA.ie.
42|Retail News|October 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Protein Products: Grenade
New soft core protein bars from Grenade Grenade have launched a new soft centred protein bar range that tastes so good, consumers won’t believe it’s protein. is Grenade’s softest ever dough, for an effortless chew. Finally, the whole lot is enrobed in a thick, chocolate coating for an instantly indulgent bite. The new range follows the success of Grenade’s first ever soft core bar, Grenade Creme Egg, a mash-up between the protein bar and the iconic Easter-time confectionery. The limited-edition bar was a huge seasonal success, and now it has some tasty team-mates that are here to stay.
GRENADE have unveiled a new range of soft core bars that taste so indulgent and satisfying, consumers won’t believe they’re packed with protein. Established in 2009 and one of Ireland’s top protein bar brands, Grenade have long provided a proteinpacked, low sugar snacking alternative for on-the-go nutrition. Comprising three distinct layers, each bar in the Grenade Soft Core range is built differently. Running through the centre of the protein bar is a one of three gooey flavour cores: chocolate, peanut butter or golden caramel. Wrapped around that
Game-changing innovation Grenade Soft Core bars are changing the game. They are more akin to a greattasting chocolate bar than a traditional protein snack. But don’t let the decadent flavour fool you; each bar has 15g of protein and less than 2g of sugar. So, consumers looking for the ultimate on-the-go fuel without compromising on taste can get ready to up their snack game. The New Grenade Soft Core line-up comprises three, indulgent new flavours: Grenade Soft Core Double Chocolate: A deliciously indulgent chocolate experience, Grenade Soft Core Double Chocolate features light and soft chocolatey cocoa dough, wrapped around a rich, smooth chocolatey soft core centre, and dipped in chocolate too.
Grenade Soft Core bars have 15g of protein and less than 2g of sugar in three indulgent new flavours.
Grenade Soft Core Chocolate Peanut Butter Flavour: Grenade Soft Core Chocolate Peanut Butter Flavour features peanut butter flavoured dough, filled with a smooth, peanut butter style soft core centre and coated in smooth, milk chocolate. Grenade Soft Core Golden Caramel Flavour: A delicious new way to enjoy protein, Grenade Soft Core Golden Caramel Flavour offers a rich, buttery caramel flavoured Soft Core centre, covered in a soft caramel flavour dough and dipped in white chocolate. Each variety is a true contender when it comes to snacking, whether throwing in the gym bag for a post work-out treat, or cracking open a low-sugar alternative on movie night. Most indulgent protein bars yet “The new Soft Core range is our most indulgent protein bar yet,” reveals Maighréad Lynch, Grenade Ireland’s Brand Manager. “With more than 15g of protein, less than 2g of sugar and an irresistibly soft centre, it blurs the line between snack and treat. It tastes so good, you'll forget you're eating a protein bar." The three new bars are available now at all major supermarkets, convenience stores, and online retailers, including Amazon. The trio join a strong line-up of gamechanging protein bars like Grenade Oreo, one of Ireland’s top selling protein bars, and iconic fan favourite, Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel. About Grenade Forged in 2009, Grenade set out on a simple mission to create serious products for those serious about fitness and training, soon gaining a reputation for making products that stood out, were effective, and provided life changing benefits to anyone who chose to use them. Grenade are staying on top of their game, on the edge of product innovation, deploying a revolutionary brand to the masses.
44|Retail News|October 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Great Taste Awards
Donegal company wins Golden Fork A sour cream brand from Donegal has been announced as the winner of the Great Taste Golden Fork Award from Ireland. GREEN Pastures Donegal 25% Sour Cream has been revealed as the winner of the Great Taste Golden Fork Award from Ireland, earning high praise from leading food industry experts for its exceptional texture, flavour and versatility. Adding to their Golden Fork triumph, Green Pastures Donegal also achieved outstanding success across their wider range, with 15 products earning Great Taste Stars in 2026, showcasing the remarkable quality of their products across the board. A family-owned creamery based in Convoy, in Donegal’s Laggan Valley, Green Pastures Donegal actually began life in Sligo in 1983 before founder and former veterinarian John Molloy moved production to Donegal in 1988. Today, Green Pastures Donegal remains a family business and supplies leading retailers, including Dunnes Stores, Lidl, Aldi and Marks and Spencer. The Golden Fork win is a significant recognition for the creamery and their commitment to producing high-quality dairy products using a simple, honest approach, with a special focus on supporting traceability from farm to creamery. Clearly delighted by the award, John Molloy, Owner of Green Pastures Donegal, was quick to share the kudos, saying, "All credit to our farmers, our cheesemakers and our team back home - we have generations of farmers and cheesemakers in this area. It's a simple, honest product with no other ingredients.” Exceptional quality Estelle Alley, UK Market Specialist, Bord Bia, congratulated all the Irish winners at Great Taste 2026: “Bord Bia warmly congratulates all the Irish food and drink producers recognised at the Great
John Molloy, Owner of Green Pastures Donegal, and Estelle Alley, UK Market Specialist, Bord Bia, celebrating Green Pastures’ Golden Fork win. Taste Awards 2026. Their success reflects the exceptional quality, craftsmanship and dedication found across Ireland’s food and drink industry. "Special congratulations go to Green Pastures Donegal on winning the Golden Fork from Ireland for their 25% Sour Cream. Securing this prestigious accolade for the second consecutive year is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the team’s unwavering commitment to outstanding quality and taste. The award further strengthens the company’s John Molloy and Zita Gillen from Green Pastures reputation for producing Donegal. outstanding Irish dairy.” This year's Great Taste Winning this highly coveted accolade is competition saw 15,038 entries from across a testament to the exceptional quality of 116 countries, judged by a panel of over Green Pastures Donegal 25% Sour Cream, 800 food and drink experts across 105 reflecting the richness of Donegal's wild days of blind tasting. Only 2% of products flower and hay meadows and the care, are awarded three stars, and of these, just craftsmanship and commitment to quality 33 products are selected as Golden Fork that go into every Green Pastures Donegal nominees. dairy product.
46|Retail News|October 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Tobacco & Nicotine Products
Budget hike a boon to black market
Retailers argue that the €1 tobacco tax hike in Budget 2027 will drive customers away from local shops and into the black market. RETAILERS Against Smuggling (RAS), which represents over 3,000 small and medium sized retailers across the country, has reacted angrily to the €1 excise increase on tobacco announced in Budget 2027. RAS says the Irish Government has blatantly ignored warnings that further tobacco tax increases will push more consumers away from Irish retailers towards cheaper tobacco sourced abroad, duty-free and through the black market. According to RAS, the previous €1 increase in October 2024 delivered just €22 million in additional tobacco excise revenue in 2025 against an anticipated yield of €69 million, while the notional tax loss from illegal tobacco jumped by almost €100 million, from €550 million to €648 million. Amárach polling commissioned by RAS before the Budget found that 43% of respondents would look outside the State for tobacco if prices increased again, compared with just 19% who would continue buying from Irish retailers. This comes on top of more than half of tobacco consumers (55%) already buying some or all of their tobacco outside Ireland. RAS maintains that Government is penalising legitimate retailers already facing soaring business costs, while failing to tackle a booming illegal tobacco market
and handing it to criminal gangs. “The Government was warned exactly what would happen, and they’ve gone ahead with another tobacco tax increase anyway,” said Benny Gilsenan, RAS National Spokesperson. “More than half of tobacco consumers are already buying some or all of their tobacco outside Ireland. Surely that tells you something. Now they are putting
Benny Gilsenan, RAS National Spokesperson.
another €1 on a packet, with some packets set to cost more than €20. The more you put up the price here, the more people will look elsewhere.” Benny argued that consumers can buy the same cigarettes abroad, in duty-free or through illegal channels, for a fraction of the price here, in some cases around a quarter or even a fifth of the Irish price: “That is an enormous incentive for people to look outside the State.” He feels this is hugely frustrating for beleaguered retailers, who are already dealing with ever-tightening margins and rising costs: “Retailers are already struggling with the soaring cost of running a business. Now we are being told to compete with people selling cigarettes for a fraction of the price, while the Government has failed to properly tackle the black market. “The Government has made a ‘hames’ of this,” Benny concluded. “They are putting the price of legal cigarettes up again, pushing more customers away from Irish shops, and making life easier for criminals. We warned them this was coming. They had all the figures in front of them. They chose to ignore the warning, and it is retailers, taxpayers and communities who will end up paying for it.”
Retail News|October 2026|www.retailnews.ie|47
Tobacco & Nicotine Products refinement, Silk Cut continues to stand out through its commitment to delivering the premium experience adult smokers expect. Supported by a comprehensive portfolio and strong brand recognition, Combining heritage, quality and strong consumer appeal, Silk Cut remains a Benson & Hedges continues to deliver premium profits in trusted choice for every pack. retailers. Stock up across the range to ensure brand continues to hold its position as one availability of shoppers' preferred Silk Cut of Ireland’s leading cigarette brands. variant. Supported by strong consumer recognition and demand, Benson & Hedges Benson & Hedges remains a trusted choice among adult For generations, smokers. Its premium credentials and Benson & established reputation continue to make it Hedges has been an important brand for retailers looking to synonymous meet demand within the premium cigarette with quality, category. craftsmanship Combining heritage, quality and strong and premium consumer appeal, Benson & Hedges tobacco. With continues to deliver premium profits in a distinctive every pack. identity and Stock up across the range to ensure Supported by a comprehensive portfolio and strong brand longstanding availability of shoppers' preferred Benson recognition, Silk Cut remains a trusted choice for retailers. heritage, the & Hedges variant.
Silk Cut Renowned for its smoothness and premium character, Silk Cut, from JTI Ireland, has long held a distinctive position in the Irish cigarette market. Built on a reputation for quality and consistency, the brand continues to be a trusted choice among adult smokers. Available in Purple, Blue, Silver, Choice Green and Red, the Silk Cut portfolio offers retailers a breadth of choice within a recognised and established brand. Its combination of premium credentials, strong identity, and broad range helps meet demand across a variety of adult smoker preferences. Built on a reputation of quality and
Nordic Spirit offers retailers a fresh choice in mint flavours
MINT flavours continue to play an important role within the nicotine pouch category, with many adult consumers seeking cooling and refreshing flavour experiences. Nordic Spirit has responded to this demand by building a diverse mint portfolio, offering a range of flavour profiles and strengths designed to deliver choice across the category. From the balanced flavours of Smooth Mint and Sweet Mint, to the more intense cooling notes of Frosty Mint and Icy Peppermint, the range caters to a variety of consumer preferences. By offering a variety of mint flavour profiles and strengths, stocking Nordic Spirit helps retailers to meet a wider range of nicotine pouch consumers within one trusted brand. Stock Nordic Spirit's mint range today and offer adult consumers more mint than most.
Nordic Spirit offers a range of mint flavour profiles and strengths in the nicotine pouch category.
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Irish Cheese Awards
Cheesy does it Four major Irish retailers were amongst the big winners at the Cáis 2026 Irish Cheese Awards. FOUR major Irish retailers scooped honours at the 2026 Irish Cheese Awards during a prestigious ceremony hosted by Cáis, the Association of Irish Farmhouse Cheesemakers, at Cloughjordan House in Co. Tipperary, recently. The biennial celebration of Ireland’s farmhouse cheesemakers, now in their eleventh year, named winners across 14 distinct categories, with awards also presented to the Best New Cheese and Best Raw Milk Cheese, culminating in naming one winner as this year’s Supreme Champion. This followed a rigorous judging process that was undertaken by a high calibre panel of Irish and international cheese experts at La Rousse Foods in Dublin. Together, the 15 judges tasted 150 different cheeses produced by 30 cheesemakers located across the island of Ireland, from the Aran Islands and Aillwee Cave to Dingle and Donegal. Each cheese was individually scored on aroma, flavour, body, texture, and overall appearance in order to select this year’s worthy winners.
Sarah Wong (left) and Heather Kingston (right), both from Dunnes Stores, being presented with a Best In Class award by Bo Zhang (centre) from Bord Bia at the 2026 Irish Cheese Awards.
Retailer Awards Dunnes Stores Simply Better were the big winners on the day, taking home an impressive nine awards: three Best In Class, a Gold, two Silvers, and three Bronzes. The retailer dominated the Creamery Cheddar category, winning a total of four awards, including Best In Class for their West Cork Co-op Smoked Drinagh Cheddar 200g, with their West Cork Coop Extra Mature Drinagh Cheddar 200g also scooping a Gold award. In the same category, Dunnes’ Batch Selection Grader's Choice Cheddar 200g and West Cork Co-op Vintage Drinagh Cheddar 200g cheeses both took home Silver awards. Dunnes Stores Simply Better picked up another four awards in the Semi Hard / Hard cheese category. Their Irish Farmhouse Smoked Gubbeen Extra Mature 160g cheese won Best In Class and the retailer’s Irish Farmhouse Killeen Goat's Cheese Specially Matured 150g, Irish Farmhouse Killeen Goat's Cheese with Fenugreek 150g and Irish Farmhouse
Coolea Mature 160g cheeses all scooped Bronze awards. Dunnes Stores Simply Better's other award win came in the Soft / Semi Soft cheese category with their Irish Original Cream Cheese 180g named Best In Class. SuperValu Signature Tastes landed a total of five awards - all Bronzes. Their 24 Month Matured Vintage White Cheddar, Allenwood Smoked Cheddar and Vintage Red Cheddar cheeses all claimed Bronze awards in the Creamery Cheddar cheese category. The retailer’s Cashel Blue Cheese scooped a Bronze in the Soft / Semi Soft cheese category, with their Gubbeen cheese picking up another Bronze award in the Semi Hard / Hard cheese category. Aldi Specially Selected took home a Silver award in the Creamery Cheddar cheese category with their Irish Vintage White Cheddar Block 250g cheese and they scooped Bronze awards in the Soft / Semi Soft category for their Cashel Blue 150g cheese and the Semi Hard / Hard category with their Irish Flavoured Cracked Black
Cnoc Liatroma from Leitrim Hill Creamery was named Supreme Champion 2026, impressing the judges with its chalky yet pillowy texture, lactic tang and distinctive citrusy and earthy notes.
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Irish Cheese Awards Pepper Cheddar cheese. Sheridans Cheesemongers were also successful, scooping a total of five awards. They took home a Bronze in the Soft / Semi Soft cheese category for their cheese, Drunken Saint, along with Silver awards in the Semi Hard / Hard cheese category for their Booker’s Vintage and Fifteen Fields cheeses. The retailer’s other award wins came in the Exclusive Cheese category with their Whiskey Milleens and Booker’s Vintage cheeses both scooping Bronze awards.
A thriving industry “The biannual Irish Cheese Awards is a very important event in the diary of Irish farmhouse cheesemakers due to the calibre of judges involved, which has a significant impact on individual Irish artisan cheese producers,” noted Dan Hegarty (of Hegarty’s Cheese), Chair of Cáis. “This in turn has a very positive effect on the long-term future, viability, and success of the Irish farmhouse cheese industry, which continues to thrive over the 40 plus years of Cáis's
existence." The Cáis 2026 Irish Cheese Awards were proudly Sponsored by Sysco, Bord Bia, Traditional Cheese Co, and Horgan’s Delicatessen Supplies, and supported by Sheridans Cheesemongers, La Rousse Foods, Artisan Cheese Awards, Irish Cheese Direct and Irish Raw Milk Cheese Presidium. The full list of this year’s winners covering all Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards is available to view online via the Cáis website, www.irishcheese.ie.
Best in Class Retailer Winners: Retailer Class, Creamery Cheddar Cheese (Gold award): Dunnes Stores Simply Better - Simply Better West Cork Co-op Smoked Drinagh Cheddar 200g, made by Bandon Vale Farmhouse Cheese Company Retailer Class, Soft / Semi Soft Cheese (Gold award): Dunnes Stores Simply Better - Simply Better Irish Original Cream Cheese 180g, made by Killowen Farm Retailer class, Semi Hard / Hard Cheese (Gold award): Dunnes Stores Simply Better - Irish Farmhouse Smoked Gubbeen Extra Mature 160g, made by Gubbeen Farmhouse Cheese Retailer Class, Exclusive Cheese (Bronze Award): Sheridans Cheesemongers - Whiskey Milleens, made by Milleens Cheese Gold Awards Retailer Class, Creamery Cheddar: Dunnes Stores Simply Better - West Cork Co-op Extra Mature Drinagh Cheddar 200g’, made by Bandon Vale Farmhouse Cheese Company Silver Awards Retailer Class, Creamery Cheddar: Dunnes Stores Simply Better - Batch Selection Grader's Choice Cheddar 200g, made by Bandon Vale Farmhouse Cheese Company Retailer Class, Creamery Cheddar: Aldi Specially Selected - Irish Vintage White Cheddar Block 250g, made by Carbery Foods Retailer Class, Creamery Cheddar: Dunnes Stores Simply Better - West Cork Co-op Vintage Drinagh Cheddar 200g, made by Bandon Vale Farmhouse Cheese Company Retailer Class, Semi Hard / Hard: Sheridans Cheesemongers Booker's Vintage, made by Carbery Foods Retailer Class, Semi Hard / Hard: Sheridans Cheesemongers Fifteen Fields, made by Knockanore Farmhouse Cheese Bronze Awards Retailer Class, Creamery Cheddar: SuperValu Signature Tastes - 24 Month Matured Vintage White Cheddar, made by Bandon Vale Farmhouse Cheese Company Retailer Class, Creamery Cheddar: SuperValu Signature Tastes - Allenwood Smoked Cheddar, made by Knockanore Farmhouse Cheese Retailer Class, Creamery Cheddar: SuperValu Signature Tastes - Vintage Red Cheddar, made by Bandon Vale Farmhouse Cheese Company
Retailer Class, Soft / Semi Soft Cheese: Aldi - Cashel Blue 150g, made by Cashel Farmhouse Cheesemakers Retailer Class, Soft / Semi Soft Cheese: Sheridans Cheesemongers - Drunken Saint, made by Wicklow Farmhouse Cheesemakers Retailer Class, Soft / Semi Soft Cheese: SuperValu Signature Tastes - Cashel Blue Cheese, made by Cashel Blue Cheesemakers Retailer Class, Semi Hard / Hard Cheese: SuperValu Signature Tastes - Gubbeen Cheese, made by Gubbeen Farmhouse Cheese Retailer Class, Semi Hard / Hard Cheese: Dunnes Stores Simply Better - Irish Farmhouse Killeen Goat's Cheese Specially Matured 150g, made by Killeen Farmhouse Cheese Retailer Class, Semi Hard / Hard Cheese: Dunnes Stores Simply Better - Irish Farmhouse Killeen Goat's Cheese with Fenugreek 150g, made by Killeen Farmhouse Cheese Retailer Class, Semi Hard / Hard Cheese: Dunnes Stores Simply Better - Irish Farmhouse Coolea Mature 160g, made by Coolea Farmhouse Cheese Retailer Class, Semi Hard / Hard Cheese: Aldi Specially Selected - Irish Flavoured Cracked Black Pepper Cheddar, made by Carbery Foods Retailer Class, Exclusive Cheese: Sheridans Cheesemongers Booker's Vintage, made by Carbery Foods Producer Awards: Best In Class Supreme Champion 2026: Cnoc Liatroma raw milk goat cheese (Leitrim Hill Creamery) Best New Cheese: St Tola Beag Soft/Semi Soft Bloomy Rind: St Tola Karst Flavour Added: Killeen Goat with Fenugreek Fresh / Soft Cheese: Cáisóg (Dingle Farm) Goats Milk Fresh/Soft: Cnoc Liatroma (Leitrim Hill Creamery) Raw Milk Award: Coolattin Mature Cheddar Washed Rind Cheese (Semi Soft): Washed Rind Gubbeen Hard/Semi Hard < 6 months: Killeen Goat Mature Blue Cheese: Young Buck (Mike’s Fancy Cheese) Mature Hard: Killeen Goat Extra Mature Smoked Cheese: Smoked Provola (Barbavilla Dairy) Mature Farmhouse Cheddar: Coolattin Mature Cheddar Special Recognition Award: John and Sally McKenna
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Employment Law
Right to Work Compliance for Retail Employers
A practical overview of what retailers need to do to ensure that they are meeting their obligations under immigration and employment law, by Declan Groake, Managing Associate, Head of Irish Immigration, and Emma Quinn, Senior Associate, Lewis Silkin Ireland LLP. IRELAND’S retail sector relies heavily on a diverse workforce. In 2024, the Central Statistics Office recorded that 27.5% of employees in the total workforce were non-Irish nationals, including a significant number of non-EEA nationals holding various types of immigration permissions. From student permit holders working part-time on the shop floor to graduates and spouses of employment permit holders, retailers must navigate an increasingly complex web of immigration and employment law obligations. With WRC inspections on the rise in the hospitality sectors, understanding your right to work obligations has never been more critical. Understanding immigration permissions Non-EEA nationals who come to Ireland
must register with Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) and are issued with an Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card. The IRP card shows the permit type, known as a ‘Stamp’ that the individual holds. We have outlined some of the likely permissions that a retailer might encounter below: Stamp 1 – Employment permit holders: In most cases, a Stamp 1 is issued to individuals who possess an employment permit (such as a General Employment Permit or Critical Skills Employment Permit) and are entitled to work for the employer named on the permit. An employer is required to actively support an employee and assist with their application. Only in very limited circumstances will an individual be permitted to work in a retail occupation on an employment permit. Retail
employers should, therefore, exercise caution if an employee or prospective employee claims to hold an employment permit: if the employer has not actively supported the application, that should itself prompt caution. Retailers should be aware that the Ineligible List of Occupations maintained by the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment deems a number of common retail occupation ineligible for employment permits (including but not limited to sales and retail assistants, retail cashiers/ check-out operators, sales supervisors and merchandisers). Depending on the role within the organisation, it is unlikely that a retailer will be in a position to assist a non-EEA employee with applying for an employment permit. A Stamp 1 may be issued in other
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Employment Law cases too. For instance, a Stamp 1 may be issued where the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration has conferred permission by reason of exceptional circumstances, where the individual has permission to work under the Turkish Association Agreement (TURA), or where the individual holds a Working Holiday Authorisation. A Turkish national who has been legally employed by the same employer for one year can apply for a Stamp 1 under TURA, allowing them to continue working for that employer without an employment permit. This is particularly relevant in the retail sector, given the number of Turkish nationals who work in retail, having initially entered Ireland on student permissions. A Working Holiday Authorisation may limit work for one employer to a maximum of six months and may be valid for up to 12 months overall, depending on the working holiday arrangement with the country of origin. Stamp 1G – Graduate permission / spouse of employment permit holder: Graduates of Irish higher education institutions may be granted a Stamp 1G permission under the Third Level Graduate Programme, which allows them to work full-time (up to 40 hours per week) while seeking employment relevant to their qualification and for which an employment permit may be sought. There are no term-time or role restrictions. However, employers need to be aware that the Stamp 1G permission is often time-limited. It is
Non-EEA nationals who come to Ireland must register with Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) and are issued with an Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card, which shows the permit type, known as a ‘Stamp’ that the individual holds. granted for 12 months to graduates with a Level 8 qualification and for up to 24 months to graduates with a master’s or higher qualification (those eligible for 24 months initially receive 12 months and can renew for a further 12 months). A Stamp 1G may also be issued to the spouse or partner of an employment permit holder, in which case the permission is not time-limited. Employers should, therefore,
Graduates of Irish higher education institutions may be granted a Stamp 1G permission under the Third Level Graduate Programme, which allows them to work full-time (up to 40 hours per week) while seeking employment relevant to their qualification and for which an employment permit may be sought.
enquire as to the underlying basis on which the Stamp 1G was granted, as the conditions and duration differ significantly, depending on the circumstances. Stamp 2 – Student permission holders This is one of the most common permission types encountered in the retail sector and one that requires careful management. Under the Student Permission Regime, Stamp 2 holders may work on a casual basis during term time (up to 20 hours per week) and full-time during holiday periods (up to 40 hours per week). Crucially, these are strict weekly caps and employers cannot average hours across multiple weeks. An employer cannot offset additional hours worked in one week against fewer hours in another. All time outside the recognised holiday windows is treated as term time, even if the student is not attending classes. The periods during which a Stamp 2 holder may work full-time hours are standardised as follows: June 1 to September 30 (inclusive) and December 15 to January 15 (inclusive). Employers should be aware that these term-time and holiday periods are standardised and do not align with the student’s own academic term or holiday schedule. Stamp 4 – Residency permission: Generally, Stamp 4 holders have the right to work without restriction. There are other variants of Stamp 4 which retail
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Employment Law
Under the Student Permission Regime, Stamp 2 holders may work on a casual basis during term time (up to 20 hours per week) and full-time during holiday periods (up to 40 hours per week). employers may encounter – for example, Stamp 4EUFAM, Stamp 4C, Stamp 4D, and Article 50 TEU. The only difference between these variants is the underlying basis upon which the permission was granted. Retailers should verify that the IRP is valid and check any conditions that may apply. Practical steps for compliance Managing right to work compliance does not have to be burdensome, but it does require a systematic approach. Here are the key steps every retail employer should follow: 1. Pre-employment checks: The single most important safeguard against both immigration non-compliance and discrimination claims is to carry out a right to work check for every new hire, without exception. This applies equally to an Irish national, an EEA national, a UK national and a non-EEA national. Before any employee starts work, verify their right to work in Ireland. For EEA, UK, and Swiss nationals, this means checking a valid passport or national identity card. For non-EEA nationals, request and take a copy of their IRP card, check the Stamp, and confirm any conditions attached to their permission (such as working-hour restrictions for Stamp 2 holders). If they possess a Stamp 1, you will also need to check the underlining permission from which the Stamp 1 was granted to ensure they can work for you in Ireland. For example, you may need to check the working holiday authorisation letter from
the DOJ conferring permission either as an exceptional measure, or under the Turkish Association Agreement. 2. Record-keeping: Employers should maintain an up-to-date register of every employee’s immigration status, regardless of their nationality The record should include the type of document inspected, the nationality of the individual, the type of immigration permission held (if relevant), and when a repeat check is next due (if applicable for non-EEA employees). The WRC can and likely will review right-towork records for the preceding 12 months during any inspection, so it is essential that these records are accessible and accurate. 3. Diary expiry dates: Employers should not assume that dealing with the expiry of permission is an obligation of the employee only. Employers need to put a system in place to track when each employee’s IRP card or employment permit is due to expire. Set reminders well in advance to allow time for renewal. However, employers should be aware that, where an IRP card has expired and a renewal application was submitted before expiry, concessions may be afforded to the employee which allow them to continue living and working in Ireland beyond the expiry date until the renewal is processed. The current concession period is 12 weeks, but this applies only where the employee has both submitted a renewal application for their IRP card before the expiry date and provided all required
supporting documentation with that application. Employees who apply prematurely, for example, to transition from a Stamp 2 to a Stamp 1G under the Third Level Graduate Programme, may fail to meet the documentation requirement and should not be assumed to fall within the concession. The 12-week concession is available only to IRP card holders who are renewing their IRP card and who have received an OREG reference number from the ISD upon submission of their application. Employers should retain confirmation that the employee applied to renew their IRP card and the automated email containing the OREG reference number as proof of right to work during the concession period. Employers are frequently caught out where an employee has made an application to the ISD to extend their student conditions, or has applied for a Stamp 4 under the Turkish Association Agreement. There is often a mistaken belief that the 12-week concession applies in those circumstances; it does not. An application to extend student conditions and a pending Stamp 4 application under the Turkish Association Agreement does not replace an IRP card renewal or preserve the right to work. Each case should be assessed individually and advice should be sought, if required. 4. Monitor working hours: For Stamp 2 holders, implement robust rostering controls to ensure they do not exceed 20 hours per week during term time or 40 hours per week during holiday periods. Given that these are strict weekly caps with no averaging permitted, retail managers must be trained to understand and apply them correctly. Rosters and working time records should be kept in order to show compliance with these conditions. 5. Train your managers: Store managers and HR teams should receive regular training on right-to-work obligations. They need to understand the different Stamp types, the conditions attached to each, and how to carry out and document proper checks. A well-trained team is your first line of defence against non-compliance. WRC inspections While many WRC inspections begin as random checks, they can also be prompted by specific circumstances such as sector-specific targeting, or employee
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Employment Law for by the Department of Justice employees who apply for a renewal of their IRP card before its expiry but where the new IRP card is not received before the expiry date. The employer’s office manager handed the employee a letter of dismissal and informed her that her employment was being terminated with immediate effect because her IRP card had expired. The office manager admitted that he did not speak to the complainant about her visa situation, nor did the letter of dismissal provide the complainant with the opportunity to appeal the decision to dismiss her. In finding that the employee had been unfairly dismissed, the Adjudication Officer noted that the complainant was not offered an opportunity to appeal the respondent's decision to dismiss her. Additionally, the office manager did not have a conversation with the complainant about her visa situation prior to dismissing her. Furthermore, no investigation was carried out. An award of €25,000 was made against the employer. Section 6(4)(d) of the Unfair Dismissals Lessons from a recent WRC case Acts 1977-2015 allows for a dismissal to be Given the above potential sanctions justified where an employee is unable to for non-compliance, it is normal for an work in their position without contravention employer to treat expired permissions of a statutory duty or restriction, for very seriously. However, a recent WRC example, where their IRP has expired and case of Poliane Fernandes Lima v Elland they no longer have a valid right to work. Distributors Limited t/a Born Clothing has However, this decision is a warning that, highlighted the need to avoid a knee-jerk even in these circumstances, the employer reaction without fully understanding all the must still follow fair procedures. circumstances around expired or expiring The WRC and Labour Court consistently permissions. assess whether a dismissal falls within the In the case, an employee was dismissed “band of reasonable responses”. Simply after it came to light that they did not hold discovering that an employee lacks a valid a valid immigration permission authorising right to work is not, on its own, sufficient to them to work in Ireland. The employer had justify a summary dismissal. The employer incorrectly acted on advice which did not must demonstrate that it acted fairly in take account of the grace period allowed relation to that specific individual. The financial consequences of getting it wrong are significant. Compensation for unfair dismissal can be awarded up to two years’ remuneration. If the dismissed employee also brings a claim under the Employment Equality Acts (for example, on the ground of race), the total exposure could reach up to four years’ remuneration, as the employee Managing right to work compliance does not have to be can claim for both burdensome, but it does require a systematic approach. referrals. In 2025, the WRC closed 1,281 inspection cases in the Wholesale & Retail Trade and found that 374 employers (29%) were in breach of employment and/or immigration law obligations. The scope of a WRC inspection is broad. From an immigration and right-to-work perspective, the inspector will review right-to-work records for the preceding 12 months and assess whether the employer has complied with immigration permission conditions. The WRC’s general approach is to promote compliance rather than taking a punitive approach. However, it’s important to remember that right to work noncompliance is a criminal offence and if identified, the inspector may refer the matter to the WRC’s prosecuting solicitor who may issue a District Court summons. Penalties for right to work non-compliance can reach up to €250,000 for serious breaches of the Employment Permits Act 2024 on indictment, or even imprisonment for a term of up to 10 years.
About the authors
FOR further information on this topic or any other employment law matters, please contact the Lewis Silkin Ireland team. This article is for general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. Legal advice should be sought in any given set of circumstances.
Declan Groake, Managing Associate, Head of Irish Immigration, Lewis Silkin Ireland LLP.
Emma Quinn, Senior Associate, Lewis Silkin Ireland LLP. discriminatory treatment and unfair dismissal. Conclusion Right to work compliance is not a one-off exercise; it’s an ongoing obligation that requires attention and investment. With WRC enforcement activity in the retail sector showing no sign of slowing down, retailers who take a proactive, informed approach to managing their workforce’s immigration status will be well placed to avoid the significant legal, financial, and reputational risks that come with noncompliance. For further guidance on right to work compliance and WRC inspection preparedness, retailers should seek specialist employment and immigration law advice.
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Drinks News Brims partner with McCallan Bonded to drive Irish Whiskey growth ANNETTE Kearney, Managing Director of brims, has revealed a new commercial alliance with family business McCallan Bonded in Co. Tyrone, one of Ireland’s premier Irish whiskey maturation providers and the first carbon-neutral bonded whiskey maturation facility on the island. As a commercial agent to McCallan Bonded in Ireland, Annette will focus on building the company’s casks’ warehousing and Irish whiskey maturation business with distilleries, brand owners, whiskey bonders and producers of Irish whiskey, while assisting to strengthen McCallan Bonded’s profile and relationships across the Irish whiskey sector. The partnership comes as McCallan Bonded continue to expand their infrastructure, with planning permission secured for a new 10,000-cask warehouse and options for further growth. Pictured are (l-r): James McCallan, Founder & Owner, McCallan Bonded; Annette Kearney, MD, brims; Mary McCallan, Director of Operations & Warehousekeeper, McCallan Bonded.
Waterford launches new whiskey trail VISIT Waterford is inviting visitors to raise a glass to Waterford’s rich tradition of making and storytelling with the launch of a brand-new Waterford Whiskey Trail. From world-famous crystal and medieval city walls to working distilleries, historic estates and Atlantic views, Waterford’s new two-day whiskey trail brings the county’s heritage, craftsmanship, food and whiskey together. Designed as a two-day experience, the new trail takes visitors on a journey through the city and county, connecting Waterford’s whiskey heritage with its wider culture of craftsmanship, food, hospitality and place. For more information, including the suggested itinerary, experiences, places to eat and stay, and information on planning and booking ahead, see www.visitwaterford.com.
Heineken step up on-trade training HEINEKEN Ireland have announced the return of their highly successful ‘Heineken Ahhhcademy’ training programme for its third year, which provides practical, hands-on training to help Ireland’s bar staff deliver the quality, consistency and service that customers expect from a great pub experience. This year sees Heineken’s investment in the initiative increase to almost €3 million, which will support an expanded programme for 2026, including dedicated learning pathways for managers and trainers. “Through the Heineken Ahhhcademy, we are proud to support publicans and their teams across Ireland by providing practical training, sharing expertise and investing in the future of the industry,” noted Jason Cox (pictured), Heineken Ireland Commercial Director.
Pure Island launches in Dunnes
DUNNES Stores have introduced Pure Island to their stores; a sustainable, boutique, family owned, single estate Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, that brings the spirit of a New Zealand cellar door directly to Ireland. Representing just 0.15% of Marlborough’s production, Pure Island offers a rare alternative to mass made or region blended Sauvignon Blanc. Every bottle is crafted from estate grown fruit, preserving the Southern Valleys’ distinctive mineral driven character. The wines are made by Eveline Fraser, one of New Zealand’s most respected winemakers, known for her hallmark style of purity, precision and expressive aromatics. Pure Island supports conservation efforts in New Zealand, including work with the NZ Nature Fund to protect endangered wildlife, and extends its commitment to Ireland through support for the Grace O’Malley Foundation. Co owner Fleur McCree says: “We’re small, and that’s our strength. Pure Island is crafted, not manufactured; a wine of purity, quality and real Marlborough character, made with care from our island to yours.”
Lidl hold Christmas wine showcase LIDL Ireland and Northern Ireland are set to host an exclusive wine tasting event at The Blue Goose, Dublin 2, on October 29, where they will showcase more than 60 wines from this year’s Christmas selection alongside their everyday range, which will be available in store in the lead-up to the festive season.
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Drinks News Heineken Greenlight heads to Galway HEINEKEN Greenlight is heading west this October bank holiday weekend, bringing three nights of live music to Galway City for its final stop of 2026, running from October 23-25. The line-up will see Getdown Services, HAAi, Joshua Idehan, Sugabooo (pictured), Ahmed, With Love, Hannah Hession and more acts take to stages across some of Galway’s best-loved music venues. With 55+ acts already having performed across Dublin and Cork this year, the Galway City takeover will close out the Heineken Greenlight 2026 series. “We’re delighted to see Heineken Greenlight resonate with consumers across Dublin and Cork this year, bringing people together through live music and shared experiences,” said Fiona Curtin, Marketing Director at Heineken Ireland. “As we head to Galway for the final stop of 2026, we’re excited to bring that same spirit to a city with such a strong and distinctive music culture, with a line-up that brings together some of the most exciting names in the scene.”
New TV campaign for Casillero del Diablo
CHILEAN wine brand Casillero del Diablo has announced the launch of its largest-ever major TV campaign in Ireland. The campaign, which stars Hollywood actor Orlando Bloom (famous for Lord of The Rings, Pirates of the Caribbean, Troy etc), is showing across RTE One, RTE 2, RTE Player, Virgin Media One & Virgin Media Player, Sky Atlantic, Disney + and You Tube. “For Casillero del Diablo, the announcement of Orlando Bloom as star of our new campaign is a fresh milestone in the brand’s history,” says Sebastián Aguirre, Global Marketing Director at Casillero del Diablo. “He is a figure of international reach, with a substantial career, embodying values deeply aligned with our DNA: sophistication, character, authenticity, and a truly global outlook.” Casillero del Diablo are the title sponsors of all drama on Virgin Media One, as well as all Sky Atlantic content post-9pm on demand on Now TV.
Diet Coke launch literary taste map AWARD-winning Author Elizabeth Day and the internet's ‘resident librarian’ Jack Edwards have teamed up with Diet Coke to launch BookMarks, a new interactive literary taste map, helping readers across Ireland and the UK discover, share and claim the reading spots that make their Diet Coke break feel perfectly matched to their book. Diet Coke BookMarks is a crowd-sourced map powered by some of the biggest reading tastemakers, with over 100 readers across Ireland and the UK having already sharing their favourite spots. Early BookMarks include Elizabeth Day’s recommendation to read a classic in Vauxhall Park in London, while Jack pairs historical literacy fiction with Place Green in Durham thanks to its atmospheric setting.
Limited edition Murphy’s Irish Stout launched HEINEKEN Ireland are launching a new limited-edition version of Murphy’s Irish Stout to celebrate 170 years of brewing at their Lady’s Well Brewery in Cork. Murphy’s 170 Whiskey Cask Stout is a special limited-edition stout that has been aged in whiskey barrels at the Midleton Distillery in Cork and is available in more than 80 outlets in Cork City and County from late September. Murphy’s partnership with the Midleton Distillery is particularly apt, as James J. Murphy and his brothers sold their stake in the Midleton Distillery to found the Lady’s Well brewery on Leitrim Street, in Cork City. Pictured are: Aoibheann O’Sullivan, Corporate Affairs Director, Heineken Ireland; PJ Tierney, Master Brewer, Heineken Ireland; and Jonathan Barry, On Trade Regional Manager, Heineken Ireland.
Tullamore Dew unveil new sculpture JOHN Quinn, Global Ambassador to the Tullamore Dew Distillery (right) is pictured with sculptor John Coll unveiling the new Irish Wolfhound sculpture at Tullamore Distillery with the Irish Wolfhound Oisín, who sat for the piece. Commissioned by Tullamore Distillery from renowned Irish artist John Coll, the life-sized sculpture was developed in partnership with the Irish Wolfhound Club of Ireland to ensure accuracy. First appearing on the whiskey bottle in the 1950s, the Irish Wolfhound has become closely associated with Tullamore Dew, reflecting its legacy of loyalty, friendship and strength. Now permanently located at the entrance to the distillery experience, the sculpture creates a new photo moment for visitors.
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What’s New TAYTO SNAX BBQ FLAVOUR NOW AVAILABLE MR. Tayto is exciting snack fans with the launch of the all new Tayto Snax BBQ flavour, the latest addition to Tayto’s number one snack sub-brand. Joining the much-loved Cheese & Onion variety, the new BBQ flavour delivers a rich, smokey taste that brings a new dimension to the Tayto Snax range. Available in both sharing and impulse formats, Tayto Snax BBQ has been rolling out to retailers nationwide, making it easier than ever for consumers to enjoy the new flavour wherever the occasion. With its irresistible smokey BBQ taste and signature Snax texture, Tayto Snax BBQ is set to become a new fan favourite.
M&S REVEAL NEW CEREAL LINE-UP MARKS & Spencer have unveiled five new breakfast cereal products, including storecupboard favourites Frosted Flakes and Mini Choco Oat Bisks, plus a new family sized pack of Wholegrain Wheat Bisks for just €4.75. They have also upgraded 18 existing products, including M&S Corn Flakes, which are just €1.20 for 500g. New products include Choco Crocos, 175g, (€3.75); Frosted Flakes, 500g, (€1.80); 48 Wholegrain Wheat Bisks, 960g, (€4.75); Mini Choco Oat Bisks, 400g, (€4.50) and Nutty Maple Syrup Special Flakes, 300g, (€4.50).
BUTLERS CHOCOLATES GO BIG BUTLERS Chocolates are turning up the indulgence this month with the launch of their brand-new Big Bar collection. The range includes: The Yellow One, smooth, creamy milk chocolate meets golden honeycomb pieces and crisp puffed rice; The Green One, rich milk chocolate wrapped around indulgent hazelnut and crisp rice praline; The Blue One, luxurious milk chocolate, indulgent caramel and irresistible hazelnut praline crunch; The Gold One, a rich and indulgent milk chocolate bar packed with crunchy pieces of salty butterscotch and candied almond. And for the festive season, a limited-edition Christmas Cinnamon Caramel & Hazelnut Praline Crunch Big Bar will join the collection, bringing a seasonal twist to the range.
EGGCITING RESEARCH FROM BORD BIA
TO celebrate World Egg Day on October 9, Bord Bia announced new research that reveals eggs are more popular than ever and a firm favourite in Irish homes, with 72% of households buying eggs on a weekly basis and consumers purchasing almost 705 million eggs this year, up 2.7% on last year. To celebrate the 30th anniversary of World Egg Day, Bord Bia has partnered with registered nutritionist Aileen Cox Blundell (pictured), chef and influencer Trisha Lewis, chef Rachel Allen and Olympian Derval O’Rourke to highlight the nutritional benefits and versatility of eggs with the Bord Bia Quality Mark.
EVERWINTER AT THE RDS EVERWINTER in partnership with Mastercard, a brand-new seasonal destination, opens at the RDS in Ballsbridge this November 25. From the team behind the vastly successful Taste of Dublin, Everwinter invites visitors to step into a vintage-inspired festive experience, with a range of seasonal activities in an outdoor space designed around the delight of Dublin's wintertime. Everwinter aspires to become Ireland's answer to the great European markets, with market stalls showcasing Irish craft and design, an ice rink, live entertainment, Robert Fossett’s Christmas Circus, a vintage fairground and much more. Any funds raised through the winter markets will help Dublin Simon Community provide vital services, from housing support and healthcare to practical assistance that enables people to rebuild their lives and close the door on homelessness for good. For more information, visit www.everwinter.ie.
It’s your Call… You
At the IGBF we assist the families of over 300 of your colleagues every month. These families are more unfortunate than ourselves and without your support such assistance would not be possible... But we still need your help to continue making the difference.
To Donate: ww.igbf. For Assistance: ww.igbf.ie/help/our_help.html For Queries: info@igbf.ie
Registered Charity No: 6577 Registered Friendly Society No: 1775
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MANAGE e c a l p k r o w WASTE BETTER INCREASE RECYCLING RATES ENGAGE STAFF PROMOTE A CIRCULAR ECONOMY Go to mywaste.ie/business to download a FREE TOOLKIT designed to help you improve how you manage your business waste. This toolkit includes free posters, bin labels and a step-by-step guide to successful waste management in the workplace.
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