Ulster Grocer November 2022

DOUBLE HIT FOR CONSUMERS AS PRICE HIKE CONTINUES & DISCRETIONARY INCOME PLUMMETS

are facing a continued squeeze as the price of grocery staples continues to climb sharply, at the same time as a record drop in the discretionary household income of Northern Ireland consumers.

Shoppers

The cost of budget food and drink products rose by 17% in the year to the end of September, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), driving UK inflation up to 10.1% in September.

Analysing pricing of 30 key products across seven supermarkets, ONS found lines hardest hit by the price hike to include cooking oil (+65%), pasta (+60%) and tea (+65%).

Average weekly grocery spend is the third highest in the UK for shoppers in Belfast and Derry, at £77.70 in 2022 and forecast to rise to £179.06 by 2030, according to recent research by financial hub Admirals Group. Only shoppers in London and Southampton are said to be paying more for their weekly shopping, with the lowest prices enjoyed by shoppers in Leeds and Sheffield.

And while facing among the highest prices in the UK, local consumers have the lowest discretionary household income of all regions according to Asda’s Income Tracker. Asda is reporting a 28.7% drop in NI weekly discretionary income to £93 for Q3 of 2022, year

on year, the largest annual fall for any region in the history of the Tracker.

Latest NI grocery market figures from Kantar, meanwhile, indicate a boost of 3% in the 12 weeks to October 3, driven in part by an 8.1% increase in average pack prices.

Shoppers were said to be returning to store more often, and buying more chocolate (+8.2%), sugar confectionery (+4.4%) and crisps (+25%) in the run up to Halloween.

Year-on-year figures were less positive. “The Northern Irish grocery market saw sales drop by 3% in the year to 3 October 2022,” said Emer Healy, senior retail analyst.

“Prices continue to increase and the average price per pack is now 5% higher than the same time last year, with shoppers buying 8.8% less volume per trip. Rises in average prices are most noticeable in everyday essentials such as butter (+5.4%), milk (+18.5%) and bread (+14%).”

Symbol retailers represent the only category to have grown their value share of the local grocery market, posting a year-on-year bump of 3.3% to an 8.1% share of the market, according to Kantar.

Tesco maintained its top position with a 35.6% share of the market, followed by Sainsbury’s at 17% and Asda at

16.4%, while Kantar said Lidl saw the strongest boost of new shoppers (+4.7%) with a market share of 7%.

Looking at footfall, Springboard is reporting a contraction of year-on-year gains as nervous consumers react to the cost-of-living crisis and political turbulence.

For the week beginning October 16, footfall in Northern Ireland was up 3.4% year on year but down by 20.5% on pre-Covid footfall in 2019. Week on week, footfall decreased by 3.5%.

UK-wide, high streets are taking the biggest hit, with week-on-week footfall down -3.3% against -1.5% in retail parks and -0.7% in shopping centres.

“There are several factors at play in terms of what is driving consumer activity,” said Diane Wehrle, insights director at Springboard. “However, the most evident is the squeeze on household incomes as a consequence of inflation and increased mortgage rates. This, mixed in with the current political uncertainty, inevitably makes consumers cautious and then rail back on shopping trips.”

Springboard expects footfall to continue declining in November but enjoy a subdued festive boost in December, forecasting an increase of +6% on November and +4.2% year on year.

GLOBAL GROCERY: OUR NEW ROUNDUP OF INTERNATIONAL INNOVATION IN FOOD & DRINK RETAIL LOOKS AT SINGLES’ DAY IN CHINA,

CHOCOLATE IN FINLAND

IN

HEALTH & NUTRITION: A LOOK AT DEVELOPMENTS IN THE BURGEONING CATEGORY FROM CHIA BIA, ACQUIRED BY LINWOODS IN 2020, TO NOISY SNACKS’ LOW-CALORIE, HIGHPROTEIN LINES

CELEBRATING 300 YEARS: RESILIENCE & AN ABILITY TO ADAPT & OVERCOME WHATEVER THE FUTURE MAY HOLD HAVE BEEN POINTS OF STRENGTH FOR BELFAST-BASED ANDREWS FLOUR

BRINGING HOME THE BACON: TAKING THE HOT SEAT THIS MONTH IS KENNEDY BACON DIRECTOR MERVYN KENNEDY, WHO FINDS HIS JOB MOST RELAXING WHEN WORKING WITH HIS ANIMALS

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FOR RISHI SUNAK, JUST MANAGING TO OUTLIVE A PERISHABLE FOODSTUFF AS PM WILL BE AN ACHIEVEMENT IN ITSELF

Inlast month’s magazine, I made reference to a comment on Twitter in September about a pint of milk that had seen two monarchs and two prime ministers while still fresh.

My gratitude to the Daily Star for keeping the grocery analogies alive in October with its head of iceberg lettuce outlasting Liz Truss’ 45-day stint as prime minister.

At time of writing, PM 3.0 in two months, Rishi Sunak, has just addressed the nation outside No 10 Downing Street, pledging to fix the mistakes of the catastrophic Mini Budget unleashed by Truss’ even-shorter tenured Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng and win back the trust of the British people.

Jeremy Hunt, Truss’ second chancellor – still in place for now and with a Budget to deliver in the coming weeks – has already made progress in stripping some of the more problematic elements out of the Mini Budget to stabilise the economy and reassure financial markets.

In his first address as PM, Sunak acknowledged the “profound economic crisis” we are facing, and both the business community and consumers will be expecting swift measures to address the crisis.

As our lead story highlights, while food and drink costs continue to rise, Northern Ireland consumers are facing the unfortunate combination of enduring some of the highest average grocery shop prices but lowest disposable income in the UK.

Many businesses are struggling to keep afloat amid high energy and raw material costs and high business rates, as well as supply chain, logistics and staffing issues.

Not helping the situation is the ongoing lack of a fully functioning Northern Ireland Executive, and uncertainty around recovery of its £661m overspend.

All eyes will also be on Sunak’s strategy for overcoming the stalled negotiations between the UK and the EU over the contentious Northern Ireland Protocol.

The new PM has a lot on his plate, but at this point just managing to outlive a perishable foodstuff will be an achievement in itself… Welcome to the November edition of Ulster Grocer

This month, alongside our usual category news and profiles, features include Health & Nutrition, a growing category of grocery which has also found itself subject to the flipflopping of the Tory Party over the last year.

Back in April, Boris Johnson’s government postponed some elements of new regulations for foods high in fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) around multibuy deals and restrictions on free refills for soft drinks, citing the cost-of-living crisis.

And while some of the HFSS regs were partially implemented in England last month, former Health Minister Thérèse Coffey was reportedly considering a U-turn on the HFSS regs and other antiobesity measures as too interventionist and ‘nanny state’.

For the many manufacturers having invested in costly reformulations to comply with the HFSS regs, such indecision and backtracking is frustrating to say the least.

Nonetheless, their efforts will not be wasted with consumer demand continuing to drive the buoyant category. As will category innovation from local companies such as Linwoods and Noisy Snacks, as featured inside.

Enjoy,

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RETAIL & MANUFACTURING SECTORS

CALL FOR RAPID, TARGETED SUPPORT

NewPrime Minister Rishi Sunak has been urged to take immediate action to address the cost-of-doingbusiness crisis and protect jobs in the grocery retail and manufacturing sectors.

Sunak was appointed as prime minister by King Charles on October 25, after a swift election for leadership of the Conservative Party following the resignation of Liz Truss on October 20.

Truss’ resignation followed a tumultuous 45 days in office in which a Mini Budget unveiled by Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng tanked the pound and pushed up government debt and mortgage rates.

Kwarteng was axed, with his replacement Jeremy Hunt immediately abandoning much of the Mini Budget to restore stability and confidence in the financial markets.

However, following a number of highlevel resignations and chaotic scenes in the House of Commons, Truss resigned as prime minister.

Sunak now faces the challenge of restoring global confidence in the UK, uniting a fragmented Tory Party, and addressing the issue of escalating inflation.

“It is time now, in the midst of a cost-of doing business crisis for sensible, targeted and quick intervention to ensure jobs are protected and confidence returned to the UK, which suffers from self-inflicted economic and diplomatic wounds which will take some time to heal,” said Stephen Kelly, CEO, Manufacturing NI.

“It is likely that most people in business would welcome a very boring political environment after the instability of the past almost seven years.

“A government taking decisions based on evidence, with their feet in the real world rather than blindly ignoring the obvious and taking no responsibility for the consequences of their actions. Politics

and policy have a profound impact on what business does and the path they follow.”

Glyn Roberts, chief executive, Retail NI, said:

“Rishi Sunak needs to hit the ground running to restore political stability of the UK government and immediately address the economic crisis facing the country.

“His government needs to go further in supporting small businesses in Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK and we urge them to fund a further targeted business rates holiday to support struggling independent retailers and hospitality businesses.

“The Prime Minister also needs to ensure that political stability and devolved government is restored in Northern Ireland. Many of our members are asking how will a further Assembly election help or anyway improve an already toxic political situation? Real leadership and difficult decisions are needed.”

NORTHERN IRELAND CAN LEAD THE WORLD IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD PRODUCTION

Northern Ireland has the potential to be the world’s leading sustainable food producer, political leaders were told at the 26th annual dinner of the Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association (NIFDA).

Addressing 250 industry and political leaders, ABP Food Group NI Managing Director George Mullan - also chair of NIFDA - said that with the right support and a stable political environment, Northern Ireland food and drink can play a key role in meeting climate targets, growing the local economy and boosting UK food security.

Held in partnership with HSBC UK, the event took place at Belfast’s Hilton Hotel on October 20, with Henderson Group Joint Managing Director Martin Agnew as keynote speaker.

“One of the biggest challenges we face as an industry is the need to continue to feed a growing world population in the most sustainable way,” said Mullan. “Addressing climate change and reaching net-zero emissions is a key

priority for governments globally, and an increasing concern for citizens and consumers.

“Northern Ireland food and drink has the track record when it comes to innovation, quality and commercial success, so we have the tools to make Northern Ireland the world leader in sustainable food production.

“Across the entire sector, firms are already working to make this happen, developing more sustainable products and implementing strategies on farm and the factory floor to lower carbon emissions.

“We are rising to the challenge, but we cannot do it by ourselves. Political stability is key, and we need a functioning Executive back at Stormont with ministers to work with us and fight our industry’s corner.

“Likewise, we need the UK government to fight for the interests of the UK’s food and drink sector at trade negotiations. Events of the past year have brought into sharp focus

the importance of food security as the ongoing war in Ukraine continues to have an impact on the food system globally.

“With stable politics and the right support, we have the potential to lead the world on sustainability, address the balance of trade in food and boost the local economy in the process.”

Allan Wilkinson, head of agrifoods, HSBC UK; George Mullan, managing director, ABP Northern Ireland and chair, NIFDA; Chris Heaton-Harris, secretary of state for Northern Ireland; Martin Agnew, joint managing director, Henderson Group; and Michael Bell, executive director, NIFDA.

Glyn Roberts

Stephen Kelly

MORE THAN 100 LOCAL TAKEAWAYS CLOSE IN LAST THREE MONTHS

a stark reminder of the issues facing our small businesses during this costof-doing-business crisis,” said Michael Henderson, chief executive, NI Takeaway Association.

“We outlined in February that our industry was in crisis and support was needed to help save small businesses.

“Unfortunately, these warnings were ignored, and this has led us to the devastating amount of closures we see today. The loss of 100-plus takeaways/ cafes in recent months adds more pressure on the cost-of-living crisis for the employees recently made redundant.

ROLE OF GROCERIES CODE ADJUDICATOR MORE VITAL THAN EVER

NorthernIreland’s takeaway sector has seen more than 100 businesses close and hundreds lose their jobs over the last three months, according to the NI Takeaway Association.

A tidal wave of increased costs ranging from energy bills, ingredient prices, a VAT increase and reintroduction of the highest business rates in the UK are said to be driving the closures, with the Association calling for government support to prevent further decimation of the sector.

“The latest unemployment raise is

“We are receiving heartbreaking calls every day from business owners across all backgrounds who are struggling and fighting to hold on to their business which they have worked tirelessly to create.

“As we enter probably the toughest winter in our lifetime, without urgent intervention from the government I fear the takeaway sector will be further decimated and we will be looking at an additional 100 closures come January.

“I’m calling on the Northern Ireland Executive and UK government to provide emergency support urgently. We need clarity on the energy support package for Northern Ireland businesses, reduction on VAT and business rates relief.”

FUNDING UNCERTAINTY HINDERS UK’S AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY

Future funding certainty is critical to British livestock farmers as they consider increased investment in technologies with potential to cut food costs, improve productivity and boost growth, according to think tank the Social Market Foundation (SMF).

As the Government mulls changes to agricultural funding and regulation to increase economic growth, SMF says ‘precision farming’ tools such as electronic ID tags, smart weighing systems, monitoring collars and farm management apps could help close the agricultural productivity gap between the UK and countries such as The Netherlands, Australia and the US.

Agricultural productivity is a focus for the Government’s Growth Plan, with ministers promising imminent action to

make British farmers more efficient.

In research based on interviews with farmers across the UK, however, SMF found many are holding off on spending money to modernise their operations due to uncertainty over new post-Brexit funding streams.

SMF’s research indicates farmers have found recent government policy announcements to be complicated and confusing to navigate, with the unpredictability making it hard to plan ahead and make investments.

Academic evidence highlighted by the SMF report suggests precision technologies could bring considerable benefits to farming productivity, as well as improvements in animal welfare and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Amid a challenging economic backdrop of rising inflation, the role of the Groceries Code Adjudicator (GCA) is more important than ever, says Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU).

Responding to a third statutory review of GCA covering the period April 1, 2019-March 31, 2022, UFU commended the body for its contribution to a year-on-year decrease in suppliers experiencing any Code-related issues over 2014 to 2021.

“The UFU believe the GCA performs an essential role in a modern, sustainable and competitive grocery market in the UK,” said David Brown, president, UFU. “Against a challenging economic backdrop with rising inflation, supply chain relationships are under pressure heightening the value of the Groceries Supply Code of Practice.

“To dilute or weaken the role of the adjudicator puts both consumers and suppliers at risk, but it would also wear down our national food resilience at a time the sector is highly vulnerable.

“Having a dedicated adjudicator with specific powers has proven vital in adding power and gravitas to the role and as a result, has driven noticeable change.”

Michael Henderson, chief executive, NI Takeaway Association.

David Brown, president, UFU.

LINDEN FOODS’ RIB EYE NAMED BEST GRASS-FED STEAK IN THE WORLD

A30-daymatured rib eye from a full bred Dexter produced by Linden Foods for M&S has been named Best Grass-Fed Steak at the World Steak Challenge 2022 in Dublin.

The rib-eye was described as very tender and rich by judges in the competition, which saw an entry from Japan crowned World’s Best Steak for the first time.

Awards were announced on September 28 at the Mansion House after a full day’s technical judging at FIRE Steakhouse & Bar. The event is now in its eighth year and saw Ireland take the most medals with a total of 54, followed by England with 36 and Finland with 28.

Linden Foods, part of ABP Food Group, collected gold awards for its Dexter Sirloin, Dexter Ribeye, Wagyu Fillet, Wagyu Ribeye and Wagyu Sirloin, all produced for M&S. It was the most successful all-Ireland supplier at the event, and the first from Northern Ireland to win a ‘world’s best’ title.

“It’s great for the team here to get the recognition they deserve for their relentless work in sourcing beef of the highest quality and coming out ahead of competition from across the world,” said Diane Christie, Linden’s head of innovation.

“The Dexter and Wagyu cuts were reared in Co Armagh and Co Tyrone, representing immensely important endorsements too for our local network of farmers.

“Our Kettyle Irish Foods brand in Lisnaskea, Co Fermanagh was also awarded gold for its Salt Dry-Age Ribeye Steak. We’re so proud to be representing Northern Irish quality in producing some of the very best steaks in the world.

“We succeed in a fast moving and demanding marketplace by doing the simple very well and always bear in mind that everything we produce must appeal to the high standards of our customers and their consumers.”

Keith Williamson, Linden’s supply chain

FOOD-TO-GO OUTLET AT FORECOURT TRADER AWARDS

manager, said: “The decision to develop Dexter and Wagyu steaks came from our discussions with M&S on developing different and more flavoursome taste experiences for consumers.

“We wanted to push the boundary of beef that was available in retail shelves by developing something new and different that other retailers weren’t doing.

“The process is an excellent example of how we work with customers and our suppliers on new product development. We also have strict rules on breeding protocols for consistency, thickness and marbling, soya and palm oil-free feed for sustainability and improved carbon footprint.”

rewarding excellence and outstanding achievement across a range of specialist and regional categories for more than 20 years.

“I would like to congratulate store manager Danielle Finlay and the team at Centra Mallusk for winning this prestigious award,” said Caroline Rowan, head of Retail Operations at Musgrave NI.

“The store offers customers a comprehensive range of Food-toGo concepts, so to be recognised as the best in the UK in this category demonstrates the hard work and commitment of the team to provide the best in modern convenience retailing.”

Centra Mallusk has scooped the top award in the Best Food-To-Go Outlet category at the 2022 UK-wide Forecourt Trader Awards.

Widely regarded as the most prestigious competition in the UK’s petrol retailing industry calendar, the Forecourt Trader Awards have been

Danielle Finlay, store manager, said: “Our customers love our foodto-go range and our entire team are committed to providing them with the best customer service. We are thrilled to see this hard work pay off and to have achieved this award.”

Keith Williamson, supply chain manager, and Diane Christie, head of innovation at Linden Foods in Dungannon with their World Steak Challenge awards and winning products.

Ray Stubbs, host and broadcaster; Danielle Finlay, Centra Mallusk store manager; Tony Owens, sales and marketing director, category sponsor Rollover; and Mark Lawrenson, host.

GLOBAL

PETFOOD & PERSONAL CARE AMONG TOP SELLERS DURING SINGLES’ DAY

on Alibaba’s platforms and US$54.6 billion on JD China during Singles’ Day, which features promotions, limited-edition collections and new products.

Petfood

is among categories expected to welcome a major sales boost in China on November 11 during Singles’ Day, a Chinese commercial holiday helping single people show pride in their status.

Last year, the category - including food, pet supplement health products and pet supplies – enjoyed total sales of 2.8 billion RMB (Chinese currency) across all platforms.

Participation in Singles’ Day, a shopping festival originally launched by Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba 12 years ago, is regarded as an open-door opportunity for global brands. Sales regularly surpass those of Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday combined.

Last year, brands racked up US$84.54bn

Generation Z is a major participant in Singles’ Day, accounting for more than 45% of Chinese consumers buying goods on the day. Beauty, skincare and personal care products are among the most popular purchases for both men and women.

While last year, top anchors and influencers led the market share of livestreaming e-commerce, brands’ own livestreaming is rising fast and is expected to maintain high growth in the future.

More brands are building on the existing layout of traditional e-commerce platforms and expanding their marketing strategies to emerging social media channels. Through a variety of marketing methods such as short videos, content seeding, and cooperation with influencers, they are emphasising brand impressions, strengthening consumers’ awareness of their products, and promoting omnichannel strategies to enlarge their brand user base.

LONGER-TERM PROSPECTS FOR MICRO-FULFILMENT CENTRES

Innovations such as electric picking carts and thermoelectric totes, as well as future prospects for micro-fulfilment centres, were among topics of discussion at GroceryShop 2022, held recently in Las Vegas.

Analyst Rueben Scriven has offered his key takeaways from the event, attended by around 4,000 grocery execs and suppliers.

Little mention was made of automated micro-fulfilment centres (MFCs), he said, with longer-term potential forecast due to some vendors over-promising and underdelivering.

However, utilising existing store assets for manual in-store fulfilment was the talk of the town, particularly for small- and medium-sized grocers with smaller online volumes.

“Optimising manual in-store fulfilment operations allow grocers to fine-tune their fulfilment processes, making the transition to automation easier and less disruptive,” said Scriven. “Furthermore, automated MFCs are only able to store a limited

number of high-velocity SKUs.

Grocers who nail manual in-store fulfilment will be in a much better position to reap the benefits of automated MFCs.”

New technology included BrightDrop’s electrified cart (eCart), Trace Grocery, featuring several temperature-controlled compartments used to store different orders or parts of a single order. Kroger is reportedly the first recipient of the technology, said Scriven.

Phononic, meanwhile, showcased its thermoelectric totes which cool and freeze the tote rather than the whole environment. Potentially easing soaring energy prices, the innovation allows chilled, frozen and ambient goods to be stored within the same storage system.

Another trend Scriven highlighted is tech-savvy grocers licensing their fulfilment technology to smaller grocers, including the Ocado Smart Platform and Walmart Commerce Technologies.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE USED TO DESIGN NEW LOW-SUGAR CHOCOLATE BAR

Finnish dairy and food co-operative Valio says it has harnessed artificial intelligence to showcase the taste of the future.

The recipe for its new milk chocolate product, The Bar, is based on AI analysis of milk chocolate lovers’ thoughts, cravings and tastes from around the world and created in partnership with chocolate manufacturer Kultasuklaa.

“The needs and preferences of global milk chocolate fans are changing,” said Timo Pajari, senior vice president, Valio. “Growing awareness of health challenges affect the confectionery industry with governments around the world already starting to regulate sugar use and consumption.”

Last spring, the company used AI technology to analyse over 1.5 million public milk chocolate-related social media discussions around the world and surveyed hundreds of people.

The research concluded there is no single favourite chocolate taste, filling or size as consumers want to enjoy different kinds of milk chocolate in different situations. Taste and sweetness are very important, but there is demand for milk chocolate to be healthier and natural with less sugar.

The Bar’s milk chocolate has 30% less sugar than regular products and is lactose-free, using Valio Bettersweet milk powder solution to reduce the need for added sugar and eliminate any need for artificial sweeteners.

The Bar features five different chocolates, each with a different taste and texture designed to fit a different use: impulse, craving, delight, hunger and relaxation. The topographic design of the bar allows layers to be easily separated for enjoyment at a suitable time.

RETAIL NI BACKS ROAM LOCAL ROLLOUT FOLLOWING LAUNCH IN BELFAST AND BANGOR

Anaward-winning smartphone app developed to drive high street footfall has been endorsed by Retail NI and Hospitality Ulster following its launch in Belfast and Bangor.

The Roam Local app, which was recognised as Best Local Travel App 2022 at the UK Enterprise Awards, recently celebrated its official launch at Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter with city and industry stakeholders.

It will now be rolled out across Belfast and Northern Ireland following a successful pilot in Bangor earlier this year.

The innovative digital technology, which uses GPS coordinates to directly link consumers to local businesses, was established in Durham by former

professional jump jockey Andrew Bartlett in 2017 and it is now used by more than half a million people across the UK.

“The majority of small and independent

BALLYMENA AIMS TO BOOST FOOTFALL AND SPEND WITH NEW GIFT CARD

retail and hospitality businesses still emerging from the pandemic and facing into a cost-of-living crisis are in a fresh fight for footfall,” said Bartlett.

“I established Roam Local to help support and empower businesses to market themselves using a low, costeffective solution that promotes their offer, attracts customers and delivers a real investment return. As SMEs continue to emerge from the effects of the pandemic, and are faced by rising costs, its need has never been greater.”

Bricks-and-mortar businesses, such as shops, cafes, bars and cultural venues, can tailor their listings with images and other information to showcase themselves in the most effective way using the app.

the Ballymena Gift Card will work like a Mastercard.

All types and sizes of businesses are eligible to be a part of the new local gift card, including retail, hospitality, leisure, health and beauty services, and both independent businesses and national brands.

Available as either a digital or physical gift card, both options will be available to buy online, with the physical version also available to buy in person at the town’s two shopping centres, Fairhill Shopping Centre and the Tower Centre.

“Ballymena is a popular shopping destination north of Belfast, drawing people from a 40-mile radius,” said Emma McCrea, manager at Ballymena BID. “As well as our two shopping centres, we have our own independent department stores, and many unique independent businesses.

Ballymena is embarking on a collaborative effort to drive footfall and lock spend in its town centre with the launch of a new gift card.

Businesses are encouraged to sign up free of charge to accept the new

TRIPLED ENERGY COSTS PUT 2,500 SMALL BAKERIES AT RISK OF INSOLVENCY

card, which will launch in November, as payment.

Driven by Ballymena Business Improvement District (BID) and supported by the Department for Communities and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council,

Hikes of as much as 300% in energy costs have left thousands of UK bakeries teetering on the edge of insolvency, according to CompanyDebt.

From ingredients prices to electricity rates, virtually every bakery’s expenses have dramatically increased this year, says the finance specialist, and many of the UK’s 2,500 independent bakeries might have to

“In fact, over 70% of our businesses in Ballymena are independent, including fourth generation businesses which have been open for 80-plus years. The Ballymena Gift Card wraps up all of that choice into one gift card for the town.”

go into debt to survive the winter.

The energy cost of running some small bakeries has gone from £1,500 to £4,500 per month and, while the Government has announced a six-month price cap on business energy, wheat prices have risen 165% since May 2021 due to the war in Ukraine and the cost of other key ingredients such as butter and oil have also risen steeply.

Colin Neill, chief executive of Hospitality Ulster, Glyn Roberts, chief executive of Retail NI, and Ellen Kerr, business development executive of Roam Local.

Back row: Stephen Reynolds, chair, Emma McCrea, manager, Roy Smith, vice chair, and Clare Moore, officer, Ballymena BID, and front row: Lesley McCaughan, Follow Coffee, and Aileen McGarry, Primark.

WORLD-CLASS SPAR OPENS IN NEW £40M QUEEN’S STUDENTS’ UNION HUB

An urban format SPAR store opened within the new One Elmwood Student Centre and Students’ Union at Queen’s University Belfast has been built to international standards, featuring unique food concepts and design features.

Henderson Group, which owns SPAR in Northern Ireland, worked with SPAR UK and SPAR International alongside the project team at Queen’s to design and build the £250,000 shop servicing more than 27,000 students and staff. Its opening has created eight new jobs.

“One Elmwood, the new Queen’s Student Centre and Students’ Union has been seven years in the making,” said Paddy Doody, sales and marketing director, Henderson Group.

“It is a stunning £40m worldclass complex which will be home to thousands of students from around the world, so we had an opportunity to develop something truly unique.

“The store is proud to introduce the first ever non-dairy self-serve coffee

concept under Barista Bar, with its unique plant-based only machine, which we believe is a first for Northern Ireland.”

With the shop’s food-to-go offer a focus, SPAR NI’s new Delish brand has been adapted for the Students’ Union shop, which features around 300 square feet dedicated to freshly prepared hot breakfast and lunch options available fresh to order or packaged to grab and go for convenience.

SUPERVALU & CENTRA NI SECURE PRESTIGIOUS WINS AT RETAIL INDUSTRY AWARDS

SuperValu and Centra were honoured at the recent 2022 Retail Industry Awards with three stores taking home top titles and a further five highly commended.

McGleenan’s Centra in Keady was awarded the sought-after Independent Retailer of the Year title (in the over 6,000 square feet group), while Lusty’s Centra in Larne won the coveted Drinks Retailer of the Year award.

Peter Wilson from Wilson’s SuperValu in Portadown was crowned Newcomer of the Year.

Highly commended, meanwhile, were Woods’ SuperValu Fruitfield, Richhill (Independent Retailer of the Year over 6,000 square feet), Moran’s Centra, Strand Road, Derry~Londonderry (Forecourt Retailer of the Year - Independent), Mallusk Centra (Forecourt Retailer of the Year - Company Owned), McCool’s Centra, Ballymena (Post Office Retailer of the Year) and Martin McLaughlin, Centra Draperstown (Store Manager of the Year - multiples).

Paddy Doody, sales and marketing director, Henderson Group, and Grainne Doherty, interim head of eventus, Culture and Arts at Queen’s University, Belfast.

Drinks Retailer of the Year: Richard and Raymond Lusty (centre) from Lusty’s Centra in Larne are joined by David Shrimpton, editor of the Independent Retail News, and Kerry Godliman, host, actor and comedian.

THE FOOD WAREHOUSE TO CREATE 40 JOBS AT NEW WEST BELFAST SITE

Situated in Westwood Retail Park, the new site will represent the brand’s second supermarket offering in Northern Ireland.

Iceland and The Food Warehouse stores currently employ over 800 colleagues in Northern Ireland.

The Food Warehouse launched its big pack brand in 2014 and its retail footprint has grown rapidly to over 150 stores across the UK and Ireland, laying claim as the fastest growing supermarket chain in the UK this century.

Customers can shop from more than 3,000 product lines, including fresh, frozen, and ambient produce as well as homeware items.

Hundreds of its products are sourced from local suppliers including Mash Direct, Dale Farm, Irwin’s, Britvic and Tayto. Exclusive brands such as Slimming World, TGI Fridays, Greggs, Harry Ramsden are also available.

Retailer

The Food Warehouse, part of the Iceland Foods Group, has announced the creation of up to 40 new jobs in West Belfast as part of a wider £1.4m investment.

The new store will occupy a 16,300-square-foot double unit in the retail park and will offer shoppers the same product lines as Iceland stores, but with the ability to achieve savings by buying in bulk without membership.

FOOD TO STAR IN SMALLER IN-HOME CELEBRATIONS THIS CHRISTMAS

Consumer research has informed M&S’ festive range for Christmas 2022, with the retailer expecting food to be the centrepiece of intimate gatherings in the home as the cost-of-living crisis bites.

M&S’ research indicates 40% of shoppers are likely to host smaller celebrations at home, in a bid to make savings, with food the star of the show and TV a big draw.

M&S does not expect shoppers to cut back on Christmas Day, with a third saying they will spend less but won’t compromise on quality for important components such as turkey, stuffing and party food.

A quarter of those surveyed, however, want to spend less time in the kitchen this year, highlighting opportunity for stress free, convenient food.

M&S’ festive range for 2022 features more than 450 new and upgraded products including a Collection slow cooked turkey crown cooking in just over an hour, reindeer-shaped steamed bao buns and Plant Kitchen roast butternut squash pie and stuffed vegan turkey joint.

The retailer’s gifting offer, meanwhile, includes food products in reusable tins, the Collection grocery range including oils, preserves and honeys, and gift boxes for creating bespoke hampers.

“This year our experts have focused on perfecting the classics and making them the best and most delicious yet,” said James Newton Brown, head of fresh product development at M&S Food.

“There is a growing sense of nostalgia this Christmas - meaning the perfect, traditional pudding, pie or poultry is more important than ever.”

“Throughout the pandemic and its subsequent recovery, we’ve seen strong demand in a very competitive market, and we believe that shoppers will welcome the innovative offering at our new store, particularly in a challenging economic environment with the current cost-of-living crisis,” said Ron Metcalfe, managing director of The Food Warehouse Ireland.

NEW SAINSFREEZE CONCEPT TACKLES ISSUE OF SURPLUS FOOD WASTE

Sainsfreeze, a new concept store from Sainsbury’s aimed at reducing surplus food waste by freezing more products, opened last month in a trial pop-up format in London.

Climate action NGO WRAP estimates the average family is wasting £60 a month or £730 a year through food waste, while Sainsbury’s own research* suggests 58% of UK consumers are looking at ways to cut costs including throwing away less food (35%) and purchasing more reduced items (45%).

Laying claim as the first of its kind, the Sainsfreeze walk-in freezer looks like a regular Sainsbury’s from the outside but supplies only frozen groceries, including products consumers would usually buy fresh including fruit and veg, dairy, meat, fish and baked goods.

From frozen eggs to herbs mixed with water and preserved in ice trays, the innovative popup aims to inspire consumers about the ways in which food can be frozen to reduce waste and save money.

Top items currently commonly thrown away include bread, milk and salad. According to Sainsbury’s research, 36% have found an item to be mouldy or gone off before they have had a chance to eat it, while only 11% realise eggs can be frozen, 24% herbs and 18% yoghurt.

* 2,000 Brits were polled over September 2223 by One Poll on behalf of Sainsbury’s.

Paul McTasney, store manager and Danny Burke, Iceland area manager.

OUR FABULOUS FOOD WILL DO YOUR BUSINESS THE POWER OF GOOD

BY MICHELE SHIRLOW, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, FOOD NI

Ulster Grocer readers may have seen our revamped Our Food: Power of Good advertising campaign on television and in social media over the past few weeks. We have revised the copy and relaunched as part of our focus on promoting our vibrant and increasingly successful agrifood industry to the local marketplace.

We really do have a host of companies, both large and small and in virtually every sector, focused on original, award winning and outstandingly tasty food and drink which are increasingly being appreciated by shoppers in Britain, Ireland and further afield in around 60 global markets.

In Food NI, we are dedicated to assisting our food and drink companies to prosper; indeed to grow stronger at home and abroad. While we are supportive of the drive to help our companies succeed, especially in the key neighbouring markets of Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland, we also recognise just how important it is to promote the companies and their products to retailers as well as consumers and families across Northern Ireland, especially at this time of rising costs in food.

Success at home is essential in providing companies with a firm base for both short- and long-term growth, perhaps even survival. It provides the confidence and essential cash flow which enables managers to look beyond for growth.

We’ve sought to support companies at home through creative and imaginative campaigns on television, social media and conventional media… and with considerable success. The current campaign is essentially a development of last year’s Our Food: Power of Good, which was widely acclaimed for its imagery and text.

Our Food: Power of Good campaign, a thoroughly professional promotion, used compelling imagery to showcase the quality, outstanding taste and value for money of our food and drink and the exceptionally close relationship between farmers and fishermen and processers, both large and small.

With the support of Northern Ireland Regional Food programme and input from LMC, UPBF and Moy Park, it has been revamped and is being broadcast with the aim of persuading shoppers, retailers of all sizes and the hospitality sector to buy more local food and drink. We are keen to see retailers follow by considering Our Food: Power of Good promotions for their customers.

We want everyone in Northern Ireland to be aware of local products and to give them priority in buying and dining decisions, because greater spend locally is good for the companies, employment and the economy, especially in rural communities in which most producers and processors are based. A dynamic and resilient local market for our food and drink enables farmers and producers to continue to invest in farming and local production.

Local food, in addition, is better for our precious environment because it reduces food miles from imports. Farmers, furthermore, are the best guardians of the local environment and deserve greater recognition for their focus on

sustainability.

Our Food: Power of Good showcases and celebrates the diversity and rich, natural flavours of local food and drink… and the people who produce it with immense dedication to wholesomeness and sustainability.

Our food is produced to the highest standards of animal welfare and processing systems. It’s safe, nutritious and with a rich heritage and provenance. Northern Ireland food means you’ll be eating some of the world’s best produce, food from the most robust and safest farming and production standards in the world.

Our Food: Power of Good reflects our passion for an industry which makes such a significant contribution to economic wellbeing. The current cost of living crisis also makes it vitally important that we buy local food and drink.

I hope you will look out for our the Our Food: Power of Good campaign, developed with the industry, enjoy watching it and give priority to promoting, selling and buying local food and drink.

LOCAL PRODUCERS LIFT MULTIPLE AWARDS AT BLAS NA HÉIREANN 2022

FoodNI members lifted 34 awards at this year’s Blas Na hÉireann, the largest food awards held on the island of Ireland, with judging held over September 30-October 1 in Dingle.

Bronze, silver and gold winners from Co Antrim across a range of different categories included Dale Farm, Glenballyeamon Eggs, Glens of Antrim Potatoes, Lacada Brewery, Suki Tea Makers and Tempted Cider Company.

Co Armagh winners included Karri Kitchen, Armagh Cider, Avondale Foods, CRAIC Foods, Daily Bake, Hannan Meats, Holmes Bakery, Kestrel Foods, L’Artisan Foods, Long Meadow Cider, White Oats and Burren Balsamics, which was also awarded Best in County.

Co Derry-Londonderry producers recognised included Carol’s Stock Market, Corndale Farm, Taste Joy Company and Broighter Gold, also awarded Best in

County. Among successful businesses from Co Down were Bró Coffee, Deli Lites Ireland, Lick Gelato, Longbridge Drinks, Papas Mineral Company and Rooney Fish, while Co Tyrone winners included En Place Foods, Ispini Charcuterie and Karro. Castlewellan-based chilled and frozen food producer TS Foods, meanwhile, walked away with five awards including Best in Co Down.

Its award-winning products, produced for Tesco Ireland and Aldi Ireland, include gold for Tesco Finest Cranberry, Apricot & Orange Stuffing, silver for Tesco Garlic and Herb Stuffing, and bronze for Specially Selected Cranberry, Apricot & Orange Stuffing and Specially Selected Black Pudding & Apple Stuffing.

“We are immensely proud to win these awards, especially when the competition was high and the judging process was so

rigorous,” said Nathan Crozier, key account manager, TS Foods.

“Our team works hard every day to produce both our own branded retail and foodservice products, as well as those for our valued customers, so it’s heartening to see both the quality and taste of our products being recognised at such a high level.”

Joanne Molloy, managing director, said: “Since 1978, we have taken enormous pride in producing great tasting food of the highest standards, and are still thrilled and humbled when our products take home prizes like these. We would like to thank the judges for selecting us as award winners and would like to extend our congratulations to all other winners and finalists.”

A pop-up Blas Village in the heart of Dingle allowed finalists and winners the opportunity to showcase their products, engage with customers and meet key industry buyers.

Finalists and winners showcased their produce in a new tented market, Eat Ireland in a Day, with each tent highlighting a province of Ireland.

Now in its 15th year, Blas na hÉireann saw a huge increase in entries with almost 3,000 products and many new producers entering the awards for the first time.

Nathan Crozier, key account manager, TS Foods.

ALMOST A FIFTH OF NI PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN’S DAILY DIET IS UNHEALTHY FOODS

fat yogurt or fruit instead of a chocolate bar.”

Dr McGloin advises parents to go easy on treats during the week, buying less when shopping and asking relatives not to offer treats every day.

Dr Colman Noctor, child and adolescent psychotherapist, said: “The latest research from the START campaign underlines how we need to become more proactive about supporting the health of future generations by encouraging good dietary and physical activity habits.

“The key is to make gradual and progressive small changes. If your children have two treats a day, then aim to reduce that to one treat a day on weekdays and two at the weekend.

“Once this has been achieved it will provide parents with the confidence to continue introducing healthier diet options. Quick wins are crucial to motivational success and maintaining progress.”

Advice from the START Campaign to help with going easy on the treats:

Almosta fifth of Northern Ireland pre-school children’s daily diet consists of unhealthy treat foods including biscuits, crisps, cakes, sweets, and chocolate, according to new START campaign research.

The research also found that a child’s daily calorie intake from unhealthy treat foods increased as they get older with a quarter of local primary school children’s daily diet consisting of treats that are high in fat, sugar, and salt.

Currently 20% of children aged 2-15 years in Northern Ireland are reported to be overweight with a further 6% classified as obese, with unhealthy snacks contributing significantly to the total intakes of saturated fat and added sugar among children.

The research was conducted in May 2022 as part of the START campaign from safefood, the Public Health Agency and the Department of Health to understand the role of snacking and treat foods in children’s lives.

The START campaign, with the support of Northern Ireland Senior Women’s International Captain Marissa Callaghan is encouraging parents to take steps

towards healthier family habits by reducing the amount of treats they give their children and to give healthier snacks when children are hungry.

“We know that snacks play an important role in children’s diets, particularly so for younger children,” said Dr Aileen McGloin, director of Nutrition with safefood.

“However, this research shows that children are getting too many snacks from unhealthy foods like biscuits, crisps, chocolate, and sweets. We want to support parents to rethink their children’s snacks, both in terms of what they buy and what they give. Offering healthier snacks particularly during those afterschool times during the week would be a good place to start.

“From listening to parents, we know this is really challenging because treats are readily available and so cheap. The cost-of-living crisis makes this even more challenging. But healthy snacks can be inexpensive, quick and easy.

“Snack ideas to offer include crackers and cheese instead of chocolate biscuits, or plain popcorn or breadsticks instead of crisps, or for straight after school, a low-

It’s difficult to avoid treats when shopping. Agree what treats you’re getting before you go so that you put less in your basket or trolley. If they aren’t at home, there’s less temptation.

Get the children involved in planning healthy snacks. Start a family challenge, like using star charts to get the whole family to eat more fruit and vegetables.

Use non-food treats. For example, planning a trip to a new playground, the beach, or other things your children enjoy.

Make healthy swaps. Offer crackers and cheese instead of chocolate biscuits. Choose plain popcorn or breadsticks instead of crisps. Offer a low-fat yogurt or fruit straight after school instead of a chocolate bar.

For practical advice and support on how to reduce treats, visit www.makeastart.org

For healthy snack ideas, visit https://www.safefood.net/Start/ Healthy-eating/Eating-healthiersnacks

Supporting the START campaign is Marissa Callaghan, Northern Ireland senior women’s international captain, and her son Quinn.

Exciting rebrand revealed for Chia Bia after acquisition by Co Armagh firm

Bia was originally formed in Tramore, Co Waterford and was the first company to bring whole, milled and flavoured chia seeds, not only to Ireland but to Europe. The brand was acquired in 2020 by Armagh company, Linwoods, famously known for its milled flax, hemp and chia seed ranges. The team at Linwoods recognised the potential of Chia Bia and realised it was ‘Time for a Chia Change’. The new owners then set out to understand the Chia consumer and how Chia Bia could further meet the needs of this market.

Chia

Chia Bia will be introducing their rebrand this month, unveiling a whole new look including new innovative functional products, added to the range as part of their strategy to bring Chia Bia to the next level. This was a result of considerable research and investment, into redeveloping the Chia Bia brand for growth within the UK and Ireland.

Orla O’Hare, marketing manager, said: “We are delighted to launch this exciting rebrand after two years of intensive research, product development and brand design. When we first acquired Chia Bia, we could see huge potential but knew we needed to modernise the brand. Our customer-led approach to these new designs and product development is a very exciting step change for Chia Bia and we look forward to seeing it on shelf in the coming weeks.”

Chia is the Aztec word for ‘strength‘ and Bia means ‘food’ in Irish. Chia Bia’s long-established Whole Chia Seed are renowned for their quality and versatility. Rich in Omega 3 which contributes to the maintenance of blood cholesterol levels and offering a source of fibre and protein, these little seeds are incredibly nutritious.

From this acquisition, Chia Bia has taken on a vibrant new look to illustrate the health benefits of these nutritious seeds and the versatility of the products which can be added into any meal. The range has also been redeveloped to introduce two new functional products to the brands offering, Chia Bia Gut Health and Chia Bia Immune Support.

Chia Bia Gut Health specifically supports the normal function of digestive enzymes supporting the digestive system with its unique strain of live bio culture. It is also high in calcium. It contains a unique strain of live bio cultures that support your immune system.

Chia Bia Immune Support has added vitamins and minerals specifically selected to support the immune system such as Vitamin D and high levels of vitamin C and copper.

Chia Bia is easy to incorporate into your diet and is best added in a tablespoon serving (30g) to breakfast,

cereals, porridge, fruit, yoghurt, salads or smoothies or used in baking.

Patrick Woods, managing director of Linwoods Health Foods, commented: “We are delighted to be adding Chia Bia to our portfolio of seed brands. At Linwoods, we are focused on producing the highest quality health foods to support and enhance a balanced lifestyle and a healthy diet and there is no doubt that Chia Bia does just that.”

Chia Bia is widely available in the UK and Ireland’s independent health food stores, Holland and Barrett, SuperValu and Dunnes Stores.

“WE ARE DELIGHTED TO LAUNCH THIS EXCITING REBRAND AFTER TWO YEARS OF INTENSIVE RESEARCH, PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT AND BRAND DESIGN. WHEN WE FIRST ACQUIRED CHIA BIA, WE COULD SEE HUGE POTENTIAL BUT KNEW WE NEEDED TO MODERNISE THE BRAND. OUR CUSTOMER-LED APPROACH TO THESE NEW DESIGNS AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT IS A VERY EXCITING STEP CHANGE FOR CHIA BIA AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING IT ON SHELF IN THE COMING WEEKS.”

Making noise in healthy snacks

COMPANY : NOISY SNACKS

on the shelf, what the pricing was, understand the customer a bit more and get a bit of PR out of it,” says Noel.

Confessing to chasing retail buyers through carparks and around golf courses, he says persistence has been vital to establishing an artisan business.

Support from Food NI and Invest NI has also been invaluable, particularly as a source of data insight when he set out to overhaul and refocus the brand during the pandemic.

While new regulations controlling products high in fat, sugar and salt have only been partially implemented in England, and not in the rest of the UK as yet, consumer demand is nonetheless driving development of the healthy snacking category.

“Part of what we want to do as a brand is to bridge that gap between healthy and tasty,” says Noel. “Our 25g impulse range is ideal for people on the go, school runs, snacking between lunch and dinner, or coming out after the gym.”

Inanother successful pandemic pivot, a range of flavoured nuts originally created to accompany craft beer has been reinvented in the burgeoning healthy snacks space.

Noisy Snacks 2.0 is ticking all the right boxes with its low-calorie, high-protein broad bean, chickpea and peanut lines.

Allergen-friendly, vegan, sustainable and largely gluten-free, the innovative range in fun, colourful packaging has proved a hit, most recently picking up major listings with WH Smith, SPAR Scotland, Tesco NI and BWG Foods Ireland, operator of SPAR and EUROSPAR in the Republic of Ireland.

Chip Shop Curry Flavoured Coated Chickpeas were awarded bronze at the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards 2022, and Beef Brisket Broad Beans both a star at Great Taste 2021 and selection as an innovation product at SIAL 2022. Further lines include Pulled Pork Broad Beans, Piri Mango Chickpeas and Pickled Onion Peanuts.

The brand started out as Noisy Nuts in 2018, inspired by founder Noel Allen’s ‘Noisy Noel’ signoff in an Ulster Grocer

column offering merchandising advice to retailers.

Noel, formerly a field marketing manager for Boost Drinks, created the first prototype products on his dining room table.

Noisy Nuts’ kit concept, featuring nuts in tubs with flavour sachets added and shaken according to taste, developed organically after he was unable to find a manufacturer to produce his flavour profiles in the small volumes of a startup business.

“It’s been a bit of a mad journey, trying to build an artisan brand, but probably the biggest problem I had when I was trying to start out ended up being one of our unique, memorable brand experiences.

“We still to this day add extra flavouring into all the packs and Shake me to wake me! messaging, and it gives this kind of fun experience.”

Initially trading at St George’s Market in Belfast and local food festivals, a short-term listing through the Lidl Kickstarter programme helped the fledgling business “learn where we sat

Alongside 100% recyclable packaging and a small footprint on shop floors, another USP of the brand is clear labelling. Noisy Snacks steers clear of unhelpful ‘may contain’ allergen messaging, investing in swab testing of its lines to remove any possibility of secondary allergens.

Production and packaging are currently outsourced, but Noel eventually plans to move all operations inhouse at Noisy Snacks’ Dungannon site. The ambitious young business has doubled its team to four in the past year.

With the WH Smith listing performing well, outselling the category in some flagship stores, Noisy Snacks has also picked up business with Google in Dublin and Ulster University.

Next up is targeting export trade with the Netherlands, Germany and the Middle East, as well as a focus on expanding its local presence.

The brand’s 25g impulse packs carry an RRP of £1, offering healthy margins for retailers, says Noel. “Looking ahead, we see massive opportunities right across the island of Ireland in forecourts and convenience retail.”

FOLLOWING SUCCESS IN THE GB MARKET, AWARD-WINNING NOISY SNACKS IS FOCUSING ON A WIDER ROLLOUT IN NORTHERN IRELAND, MARKETING & SALES DIRECTOR NOEL ALLEN TELLS ALYSON MAGEE

Noel Allen is pictured, right, on the Noisy Snacks stand at SIAL Paris last month.

My Life in the Grocery Trade

NAME: ELLEN IRWIN ROLE: SALES & MARKETING EXECUTIVE COMPANY: NOISY SNACKS

BRIEFLY OUTLINE YOUR EMPLOYMENT HISTORY TO DATE

I studied food and nutrition for my undergrad degree and started my career in food quality and technical roles within the meat industry and then the retail industry. However, when I graduated, I began a part-time master’s degree in business communication which pushed me towards sales & marketing.

WHAT DOES YOUR ROLE INVOLVE?

I’m in charge of Making Noise for the brand and creating/supporting a strategy for our social media channels. I spend lots of time creating and building content creation tied into driving online sales. I work very closely with our external digital design team to sign off promotional materials for instore and trade activation.

I also manage Shopify and Amazon Store account orders, sign off our traceability and technical documents and work on sales development of new accounts.

WHEN DID YOU TAKE UP THIS POST?

I joined the Noisy Team at the start of September, but have already been involved in so many things and learnt so much. I also hit the ground running as I was

in charge of managing our consumer show event at the National Ploughing Championships. 277,000 visitors are no joke, but I enjoyed the experience, and sold a lot of Noisy Snacks.

WHAT ARE THE BEST/WORST PARTS OF YOUR JOB?

I love getting creative and brainstorming our marketing and promo ideas, then seeing them come to fruition is so rewarding. The worst part is probably packing huge amounts of stock for Amazon when it is freezing in the warehouse, but I think I’ll be a wrapping expert in time for Christmas!

BRIEFLY OUTLINE A TYPICAL DAY

No day is the same. However, I try to structure my week to schedule time for everything. Some days I will be in sales meetings in the morning then content creating in the afternoon, or I will be fulfilling Shopify orders or away at a trade show; there’s always plenty to do.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE PROUDEST

MOMENT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE?

Probably taking the risk of a career change because moving out of your comfort zone can be scary and I moved from a huge company to work in a start-up. However, I really enjoy my role and it has definitely paid off, so I’m very proud I took the leap.

BEST THING ABOUT BEING INVOLVED WITH THE LOCAL RETAIL INDUSTRY?

I have always been a people person, so I love getting to meet so many interesting people and hearing their stories. In my previous role, I was very much involved in the Natasha law roll out and dealt with a lot of processes and legislation in retail and supporting the staff. Now I’m able to support them to drive their snacking sales with healthier HFSS-compliant and adventurous flavoured snacks.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO TO UNWIND AWAY FROM WORK?

I play hockey for Dungannon, which I really enjoy as I like to keep active and I’m very competitive. The rest of my time is usually spent with my family and friends, relaxing or going for walks and watching movies.

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF THAT NOT MANY PEOPLE MAY KNOW

When I finished school, I moved to New Zealand for a year which was so exciting, and I got to see and do so many amazing things. I was still a teenager, so it feels so long ago but I made so many memories.

Andrews Flour: 300 years of resilience & adaptability

:

imposed by the English government on the export of provisions from Ireland. Throughout the turmoil, linen and flour trades continued to flourish and in the early 19th century, Michael Andrews built a factory producing fine damask linen, known as Ardoyne Damasks. These were delivered to the White House and various royal palaces around the world. Flour was regularly being shipped far and wide, including the West Indies and Canada.

AndrewsFlour, based in Percy Street Belfast, is an unassuming company with quite the opposite in terms of historical relevance. Over the years, the history of Andrews Flour has been meticulously documented, if you excuse a mishap in 1880 when many manuscripts, letters and ledger books were mistaken for useless lumber and burnt. Nevertheless, ledgers dating as far back as 1771 can be found in the Andrews Flour offices to this day, giving a fascinating insight into the lives of the Andrews ancestors who were soap boilers and chandlers until the linen and milling trades took off.

One of the first documented Andrews ancestors was ‘Thomas the Miller’, born in Comber in 1698. In 1722, Thomas took lease of the Upper Mill in

Comber and ground corn. Who would have known that this small business venture 300 years ago would become the foundations on which the Andrews dynasty would flourish?

Continual investments were made to the mill throughout these early years. New machines to dress fine flour were installed and a dam was built to feed the newly built wash mill for bleaching linen. The biggest investment of this time was the new flour mill that was built in 1771. This imposing building was five stories high and became the principal landmark in Comber. With new advancements in machinery, wheatmeal, oats and barley were able to be milled.

Andrews Flour faced many challenges through the early years. Famine ravaged through Ireland in 1740, affecting not only potato, but grain harvests too. In 1775 the American War of Independence caused uncertainty with the relatively new export trade. In 1778, Ireland’s financial situation was desperate because of the 1770 embargo

The 19th century saw its fair share of troubling times, from The Great Famine causing exceptionally poor crop yields, to the Crimean War which saw wheat prices spike. By 1872, the linen business had closed in its entirety. However, Isaac Andrews’ son, John Jr. came into the Comber business, having returned from Prouvy in the North of France where he was a director of a large mill operating the Hungarian system of milling. He brought with him much needed knowledge of the new roller system and business acumen.

By 1880, Meadow Street Mill was purchased by Thomas J Andrews and John Jr. Andrews, and underwent a significant modernisation. In 1882, the Belfast Mills site on Percy Street in Belfast was rented for one year, before an agreement was later reached whereby the mills became, and remain to this day, the home of Andrews Flour. Capacity at both sites allowed for significant growth in business.

Clerical work continued in Comber until August 1885 when it was transferred to the Belfast Mills. Experimental telephone lines had been tried and tested between Comber and Meadow Street via the Belfast Exchange. John Andrews and Co. operated on the old Comber Mill for another 20 years before the mill was

Deliveries of Andrews Flour 1938

Isaac Andrews & Sons Letterhead 1890s

L-R Sean Earley, Charlie Moreland, Niall McCrory & Ciaran Harkin

officially closed and the site cleared.

By 1890, approximately 80% of the flour sold throughout Ireland was for retail trade. Large 224lb retail bags were favoured as these could be sewn together to create fine cotton bedsheets. But by 1900, most of Ulster’s flour mills were driven out of business due to the favourable transport costs arranged with local railways, enabling imported flour to reach any town via Belfast for a cheaper price than the Belfast Mills flour. By 1895, Meadow Street mill was sold to Thomas Gallagher for his new tobacco factory and Belfast Mills ceased production until the large stock of flour was disposed of or sold.

In 1897, John’s sons joined the family business at Belfast Mills. It was then that Sydney Andrews used his knowledge with chemistry to develop an innovative process to produce whiter flour. On the 13th February 1902, a patent was accepted on the bleaching specification and within two years of installation, imported soft flour was hard to find in Ireland. This method became known as the Andrews Patent, or the master patent for flour bleaching, a practice that is no longer used today.

In the early 20th century, significant works to the mill took place to increase capacity. New deals with the railway network meant business in the west of Ireland flourished. But in 1914, the First

World War struck and the British Government took over all mills by 1916 due to the risk of importing grain at this time. Mills were paid pre-war profits to ensure they survived. Following the war, Andrews Flour continued to adapt, and a new plant was built on the Belfast Mills site that was more suited for milling strong flour, targeting new markets by 1933.

During the Second World War, from 1939-1945, English mills were unable to ship across the Irish Sea which saw the Belfast Mills working overtime to cope with demand. By 1956 an overhaul of the mill saw new flour stores, a screen house, conditioning bins and five more stands for lorries.

With business flourishing, Mortons Flour of Ballymena was purchased in 1989. The old mill in Ballymena, owned by Robert Morton and established in 1835, was closed and operations were brought to Percy Street.

Today, Andrews

Flour and Mortons Flour continue to be milled at Percy Street. Each day Andrews Flour is sent across the island of Ireland in tankers and large 25kg bags whilst the retail brand, Mortons Flour, can be found in smaller packs in major retail and convenient stores across Northern Ireland. It is fair to say that Andrews Flour has survived through some of the most challenging times in history and today is no different: Covid-19, Brexit uncertainty, and the Russia/Ukraine war causing volatile wheat markets are a few of the challenges that Andrews Flour face today. But one thing through this complex history remains constant, and that is the resilience of the people behind Andrews Flour and their ability to adapt and overcome whatever the future may hold.

Old Comber Mill 1890

Mortons Flour Mill, Ballymena

Andrews Flour Letterbooks 1860s

Ledgers from 1771

PLANTING AN IDEA

TOO MUCH HYPE AROUND THE PLANT-BASED CATEGORY RESULTED IN INFERIOR PRODUCTS FLOODING THE MARKET & LOST CUSTOMERS BUT THE DEVELOPMENTS IN QUALITY DRIVING PLANT-BASED 2.0 SHOULD WIN THEM BACK, MARKETING PLACE CEO NIGEL WHITE TELLS UG

DO YOU EXPECT FURTHER GROWTH IN THE PLANT-BASED CATEGORY OVER THE NEXT FIVE YEARS & BEYOND?

Yes. The core drivers of consumers wanting to eat healthier and limiting consumption of certain food groups and the environmental impact of our diets continue, unabated. However, we are probably coming to the end of Plant Based 1.0 development and will see a different wave of products to make PlantBased 2.0 market more successful.

THE PLANT-BASED CATEGORY HAS COME UNDER SOME CRITICISM OVER ITS GREEN CREDENTIALS - HAS ANY PROGRESS BEEN MADE ON ADDRESSING THE ISSUE?

Most of the businesses within the plantbased sector are based on ensuring a more sustainable food system; those companies that don’t deliver on this will attract criticism.

WHAT OTHER CHALLENGES ARE FACING THE CATEGORY?

Obviously, the cost-of-living crisis globally,

where price of products becomes the most important factor, is a major challenge.

Taste perceptions. Getting rid of the inferior products in the sector will be an important step to further growth; if people’s first experience with a plantbased product isn’t delicious, then it can impact perceptions of the whole category. While category penetration has been strong, the repeat rate and loyalty levels haven’t backed up those wins.

Getting Rate of Sale (ROS) up: retail space is incredibly valuable. Too many products limp along with a weak ROS.

Having a very clear role in the category: each brand needs to have a clearly defined role in the category and not just offer me-too products.

WHAT ARE THE LATEST TRENDS WITHIN PLANT-BASED FOODS?

Latest trends:

•The move towards more clean-dec products.

•There’s a lot of work happening on suitable fats, given the key role that ingredients play in terms of mouthfeel,

taste, etc.

•Cultured meat, hybrid cultured/plantbased and precision fermentation are really interesting areas coming down the track, making the food sector a dynamic place for people to join.

CAN YOU IDENTIFY ANY FURTHER GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES IN THE CATEGORY?

In order to further grow the sector, we need to see more base ingredients being explored: not just pea protein or soya.

Foodservice is seeing some very exciting craft and foodie products being developed.

Taste, or perceived taste, is still an issue in the plant-based market and therefore, rather than spending budget on purely brand awareness building, brands would be better advised to invest in actually getting great-tasting plant-based products into people’s mouths so they experience how good they are. Equally, however, if the products aren’t good enough, then this approach will not work.

SAFEFOOD REPORT HIGHLIGHTS LOWER CALCIUM & PROTEIN IN DAIRY ALTERNATIVES

Newresearch¹ launched by safefood has found the protein content for dairy alternatives such as oat-and coconut-based products to be largely lower than their dairy equivalents.

Calcium content of plant-based alternatives to cheese was also found to be lower in the research, which looked at the nutritional content of 201 plantbased alternatives to dairy products on sale in supermarkets including alternatives to milk, cheese and yoghurt.

“We’ve seen a dramatic rise in both the popularity and number of plant-based alternatives to dairy products available on the market in recent years,” said Dr Aileen McGloin, director of nutrition with safefood.

“Our survey found that on average, the protein content for the plant-based products we looked at was less than the dairy products. The calcium content for plant-based milks and yoghurt was the same as their dairy counterparts but was lower for cheese.

“Because these products vary in nutritional content, I would advise people

to check the labels and look for products containing sources of protein, that are unsweetened and fortified with calcium.

“To take plant-based alternatives to milk as an example, on average these had a third of the protein content of milk, while two thirds of the products surveyed were not a source of protein. This may be particularly important for those moving to vegetarian or vegan diets.”

The safefood research also found that 33% of adults are now consuming plantbased alternatives to dairy products such as milk, cheese and yoghurt with 44%

of people aged 15 to 24 being regular consumers of these products. Among people who choose these products, 20% did so because they considered them to be healthier³.

Current national Healthy Eating Guidelines recommend three servings a day of milk, yoghurt and cheese for adults, and five for children and young people aged 9-18, with reduced or lowfat varieties being advised.

The full report can be downloaded from the safefood website at www.safefood.net/research-reports/plantdairy-alts

References:

¹Plant-based Dairy Alternatives – products available in supermarkets on the island of Ireland and consumer behaviours and perceptions, safefood 2022

² Plant-based foods in Europe: How big is the market? EU Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme ³ safefood & Ipsos (2021) Face-to-face interviews with 834 adults on the island of Ireland November 2021-January 2022.

GLEBE FARM PUSHES FOR PROVENANCE IN PLANT-BASED

things like ‘our oats are sourced from Northern Europe’. It’s time for more transparency over where these products come from. British farmers can make the UK oat milk largely self-sufficiently. You wouldn’t expect to buy a pint of Swedish dairy milk.

With oat milk sales increasing by 34% in the last year*, research commissioned by British family business Glebe Farm has found more than a third of British consumers are unaware of the origin of the milks.

Glebe Farm, which defeated Oatly in a trademark dispute, is highlighting that major plant-milk giants Oatly and Alpro which account for almost 80% of the oat milk market** are sourced outside of the UK.

Yet in Glebe Farm’s research, 70% of respondents said it was important to

know where food and drink comes from, and 64% reported they were concerned about the environmental impact of the food and drink they consume.

The three leading oat milk brands are all made from imported oat syrup or manufactured abroad and shipped into the UK, says Glebe Farm, in contrast with the UK dairy milk industry which is 77% UK self-sufficient.

“Consumers who care about the environment are being misled by the big oat milk brands,” said Phillip Rayner, coowner of Glebe Farm. “They say woolly

“So far, the plant-milk movement has avoided the provenance question, it’s time to change that and give consumers the information they need to make good buying decisions. Retailers, restaurants and brands both need to do more, whether it’s labelling, ingredient policies or not stocking imported products with high food miles. Where food comes from does matter.”

Glebe Farm’s PureOaty is made using 100% gluten-free, British oats, fully traceable and grown on and within an average of 40 miles of the family farm in Cambridge.

Sources: *Nielsen Scantrack data to WE 01.01.22; ** IRI All Outlets 52 w/e 13th August 2022

SUPERVALU & CENTRA DONATE 50P FROM EVERY PUMPKIN SOLD TO ACTION CANCER

Convenience

retailers

SuperValu and Centra have joined forces with Co Armagh supplier Gilfresh in a fundraising initiative for Action Cancer, with 50p from each pumpkin sold last month going to the charity.

The retail brands’ long-term charity partner Action Cancer will use funds raised to help keep its mobile detection unit the Big Bus on the road, bringing its free health checks and breast screening services to communities across Northern Ireland.

“Our customers are extremely supportive of Action Cancer and it’s thanks to the ongoing support from them and our retail partners that the Big Bus can continue to visit communities across Northern Ireland and provide cancer prevention and life-saving services to so many people,” said Desi Derby,

marketing director at SuperValu and Centra NI.

“Halloween is such a fun time for many people whether dressing up or carving pumpkins, and this is an easy way for our shoppers to help raise vital funds for a very worthwhile charity, while enjoying themselves at the same time.”

Gareth Kirk, CEO of Action Cancer, said: “Once again SuperValu and Centra are pulling out all the stops to raise essential funds for Action Cancer. We hope shoppers pick up a pumpkin in their local store and help us to continue to deliver our life-saving services and support those who really need help.”

SuperValu and Centra have been partnering with Action Cancer since 2001 and to date have raised £3.5m, one of the largest amounts ever by a company for an individual charity in Northern Ireland.

BELFAST TESCO SHOPPERS HUNT FOR GOLDEN CHARITY TOKENS WORTH £1M

Shoppersin 100 large Tesco stores across the UK were given the chance to take part in a lucky dip to find specially created gold versions of its iconic blue voting token worth £1m in grants to local good causes last month.

Tesco’s Yorkgate Centre site in North Belfast is one of 100 large Tesco stores which took part in the campaign.

Finders were able to choose which of the three local good causes in the Belfast store’s current vote would receive a £10,000 Golden Grant, while at the same time receiving a Tesco voucher as a thank you for taking part.

Customers could win one ‘digital’ golden token by nominating a charity through the Tesco Golden Grants competition, running on the Tesco Twitter channel.

The £1m donation marks £100m in Community Grants being given to more than 50,000 good causes since they were launched in 2016.

Good causes benefitting include

breakfast clubs, food banks, Meals on Wheels, playgrounds and green spaces, parks and green spaces, counselling and support services for young people and children’s sports teams.

England Lioness Ella Toone teamed up with Tesco to launch the Golden Grants by surprising ATF (Achieve, Thrive, Flourish) in Basildon with the first golden token. ATF works with

young people and communities and was one of the first-ever recipients of a Tesco Community Grant.

With many small, often volunteer-run groups facing rising costs, Community Grants are vital to help them keep going. The current cost of living crisis is also seeing many groups starting to offer hot meals or warm spaces in addition to their usual services.

England Lioness Ella Toone has teamed up with Tesco to launch the Golden Grants.

The Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus courtesy of Superheroes NI and Salem Sisters NI, join Lucy McCusker, Action Cancer corporate fundraising manager, and Eloise and Adam McIlroy to celebrate SuperValu and Centra’s latest fundraising initiative.

LYNCH’S DERRY SUPERMARKETS RAISE OVER £10,000 FOR CHILDREN’S CANCER CHARITY

Teamsfrom Lynch’s SPAR and EUROSPAR stores and supermarkets in the Derry and Mid Ulster areas held Community Coffee Mornings for their shoppers recently, collectively raising over £10,000 for Cancer Fund for Children.

The annual Community Coffee Morning is held in a number of EUROSPAR and ViVOXTRA stores across the country in partnership with Cancer Fund for Children, a partnership which began in 2011.

This year, the coffee mornings kicked off September’s Childhood Awareness Month, welcoming shoppers to enjoy coffee, tea and sweet treats for a donation towards the charity, all while raising awareness for this special month.

Lynch’s supermarkets are at the heart of their communities, and store teams engaged with shoppers throughout the day with various activities. EUROSPAR Draperstown, EUROSPAR Skeoge, SPAR Trench Road and EUROSPAR Greysteel

all went the extra mile to bring exciting additions to the traditional community coffee mornings, including a £100 voucher giveaway for one lucky shopper.

Derry GAA star Benny Herron showed his support at EUROSPAR Draperstown, meeting the customers and signing jerseys, and at EUROSPAR Skeoge, customers were lucky enough to get a performance from the Harkin-McGinley

Academy of Irish Dance, getting everyone involved, including some of the store’s team members.

It was the first time holding a Community Coffee Morning for SPAR Trench Road and EUROSPAR Greysteel, which opened at the end of 2021. The Greysteel store held exciting competitions for shoppers to mark the occasion, and the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Sandra Duffy, called into the Trench Road store to get involved and show support.

“We are delighted with how much the stores have been able to raise and so grateful for the support of all those who attended, but the standout stars are our staff, who really get behind the event every year and engage with the customers,” said Conor Lynch, store owner.

To find out more about EUROSPAR’s work with Cancer Fund for Children, visit: https://www.eurosparni.co.uk/ community/cancer-fund-for-children/

Pictured at EUROSPAR Skeoge are James Kelly, Danielle Johnston, Gregory Nicholl, Alex Murdock from Cancer Fund for Children, Conor Lynch, store owner, Denise Ferguson, Alastair O’Connor and John Bradley.

Hub Packaging reach distribution agreement with Thergis, a leading thermal packaging manufacturer

COMPANY : HUB PACKAGING

keeping fresh goods chilled for longer whilst in transit.

There are a variety of benefits in utilising thermal packaging to help keep products cool whilst in transit, including:

• Reusable with a weight and coolant comparison approximately two times that of ice

• High-grade, puncture-resistant film

• Clean with no mess – no seepage and no soaking required

Greg Brennan, sales manager at Hub Packaging, said:

“These are exciting times for Hub as we continue to expand our product offering across the island of Ireland. We’re looking forward to making this range of great products available ‘next day, off the shelf’ to all 32 counties which we believe will be very well received as the alternative for many is to order in full shipments from Europe and further afield due to the lack of local options.”

HubPackaging is delighted to announce we have secured the rights for exclusive distribution across the island of Ireland for Thergis, a specialist provider of thermal packaging solutions for the food, healthcare, and pharmaceutical sectors.

Based in the East Midlands, Thergis supply a range of bespoke and standard shipping and packaging solutions for temperature-sensitive products. Their thermal packaging solutions range of gel packs, ice packs, insulated box liners, absorbent pads, paper bags and boxes cover a range of packaging items essential for ensuring chilled deliveries arrive safely and in peak condition.

At Hub Packaging, we provide a range of tertiary packaging supplies to a variety

of sectors, including the food and retail industry.

Our commitment to innovation means we are continuously striving to provide new packaging solutions to our customers, in a cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and timely manner.

We are one of the biggest suppliers of industrial packaging and consumable products throughout the whole of Ireland, dedicated to providing the very latest packaging products and industry innovations with unparalleled service.

Temperature-controlled solutions ensure chilled and frozen goods arrive in prime condition. Products such as gel and water packs can be supplied pre-frozen and are available in a range of sizes and quantities.

The gel packs are an easy method of

Andrew Ward, managing director at Hub Packaging, said:

“We are delighted that Thergis have chosen to partner with Hub Packaging and look forward to supporting old and new customers with this innovative range of flexible gel packs.”

If you would like to find out more information about how Hub Packaging can supply your business with a range of thermal packaging, or any other packaging products such as cardboard boxes, strapping or tapes, please contact our sales team who will be happy to provide more information. Email sales@ hub-packaging.com or phone 028 4175 4977.

You can also shop online via our online store and buy packaging today, visit: https://www.hub-packaging.com/shop/.

We have recently set up the option to register for an online trade account for businesses to buy their packaging at competitive prices. For more information & to register for an account today, visit this address: https://www.hub-packaging.com/ trade-account-registration/

POULTRY KEEPERS URGED TO REMAIN VIGILANT AFTER BIRD FLU CASE

Poultryfarmers and backyard keepers should ensure they have strict biosecurity measures in place following confirmation of a local case of Pathogenic Avian Influenza (AI) by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA).

DAERA has introduced a 3km disease control restriction zone around the infected premises, whereby all poultry and captive birds must now be kept in secure housing or separate from wild birds.

“It is concerning that the detection of AI has been found this early in the season in Co Down,” said John McLenaghan, deputy president, Ulster Farmers’ Union. “To prevent the disease from spreading and to protect farm businesses and the entire NI poultry industry, biosecurity is crucial.

“Our poultry farmers implemented excellent biosecurity last season, helping to prevent the spread of the disease and I urge all poultry and backyard keepers to continue maintaining high standards of biosecurity and to practice good farm

DAIRY FARMERS CAUTION AGAINST INTRODUCTION OF PEAK ELECTRIC CHARGES

hygiene at all times.

“It is important that poultry keepers remain vigilant and keep a close eye on flocks for any AI symptoms. If producers suspect disease, they should contact their vet or local divisional veterinary office immediately.

“I cannot stress how important it is that all backyard keepers, regardless of how many birds are residing on their premises, even if it is one hen, as well as poultry farmers, ensure that their flock is registered with DAERA. This includes hens kept in gardens.”

In GB, following a change in the risk levels and increase in the number of detections, the chief veterinary officers from England, Scotland and Wales declared Avian Influenza Prevention Zone biosecurity measures were coming into force on October 17.

this,” said Kenny Hawkes, dairy committee chair, UFU. “The proposed charge in RoI is to encourage electricity customers to manage their usage between these hours to lessen the demand on the national grid and the risk of blackouts this winter.

“However, farmers, and especially dairy farmers, cannot rearrange their farming day to avoid peak use of electricity as milking times are best suited to the dairy herd and milking system.

Local authorities have been urged not to follow the Republic of Ireland’s example of potentially introducing surcharges on using electricity at peak times of the day.

The Commission for the Regulation of Utilities in the Republic has proposed introduction of a tariff between 5pm to 7pm.

However, Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has cautioned any introduction of a peak electric tariff in Northern Ireland would be financially damaging for the dairy farming sector, which typically conducts their first milk early in the morning and their second during the peak hours.

“It’s not an option for them to change

“UFU senior dairy policy officer attended the latest meeting of the CBI NI Energy Forum. The consensus was that there is no likelihood of black outs here despite having an ‘all-island’ electricity grid. The dynamics do differ between NI and the ROI in terms of energy use.

“The last thing farmers need is for NI authorities to agree on a move that will increase electricity costs at a time when charges are already at record level and cannot be absorbed any further.”

BRITISH LAMB EXPORTS RESUME TO USA AFTER 20-YEAR HALT

British lamb has been shipped to the USA for the first time in over 20 years, representing a significant step forward in resuming trade.

The small ruminant rule banning British and EU lamb imports was rescinded by the US government earlier this year, after over two decades of lobbying from UK farming unions, levy bodies and the National Sheep Association.

“This is a significant step for the sheep sector in Northern Ireland and will be well received by our lamb producers,” said John McLenaghan, deputy president, UFU. “This breakthrough with the US market highlights that their officials have recognised the high-quality, grass-fed products that we have to offer, and we are looking forward to getting our NI Farm Quality Assured lamb shipped to the USA for their residents to enjoy.”

John McLenaghan, deputy president, Ulster Farmers’ Union.

BALLYMONEY VETERINARY PROFESSIONAL HONOURED WITH BVA AWARD

ABallymoney

vet who recently celebrated 50 years in the profession has been honoured with a prestigious award for his influential and supportive role in the lives of many veterinary surgeons in times of need.

British Veterinary Association announced the winners of four prestigious veterinary achievement awards at its annual Members’ Day, held this year at Clare College, University of Cambridge.

David McKeown from Ballymoney was presented with the Chiron Award in recognition of his work to support veterinary professionals with their mental health and wellbeing.

The Chiron Award acknowledges lifetime achievements in veterinary science or outstanding services to the profession commanding international or inter-professional recognition. After graduating from Glasgow

BIOMETHANE PRODUCTION POTENTIAL HIGHLIGHTED FOR LIVESTOCK FARMERS

Local potential for biomethane was the focus of an Anaerobic Digestion and Bioresources Association Northern Ireland Forum held recently in Belfast.

Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) Deputy President John McLenaghan spoke at the event, outlining the benefits of aerobic digestion and digestate in farming systems and the importance of involving land-based sectors in policy development.

“Anaerobic digestion in NI provides a solution to the ongoing trilemma faced by environment/land use and energy policy changes,” said William Irvine, deputy president, UFU. “The UFU previously commented on the potential for biomethane in NI.

“However, it needs to be stressed that due to livestock farming being best suited to the local landscape, the focus needs to shift to encourage livestock farmers to recognise the benefits of biomethane production.

“This includes reduced carbon footprint and reliance on conventional manufactured fertilisers which would have economic gains as energy prices continue to rise.

“Despite the advantages of biomethane, several barriers remain, preventing more farmers from developing into the production of the green energy source such as grid connection issues and significant upfront capital costs that need to be addressed.

“We’ve been informed that a Steering Group has been set up to drive policy for anaerobic digestion in NI, yet key stakeholders, including the UFU, have not been included. Our involvement from the outset is imperative to getting a fitting policy in place that will work for the land-based sectors, particularly livestock farming, and we urge DAERA to take this request on board.”

in 1972, McKeown established Knockanboy Veterinary Clinic in North Antrim in 1975 and spent the first 25 years of his career predominantly as a farm vet in a six-vet mixed practice in partnership with his fellow Glasgow graduate Liam Kearney.

His time in practice overlapped with what followed as a second career, a 31-year-stint in the Veterinary Defence Society (VDS).

He has been an enthusiastic volunteer with both Vetlife and the Samaritans for 14 years and now divides his time between a management role with the Samaritans, his volunteering with Vetlife and a volunteer role with VetSupport.

His interest in mental health matters within the profession emanated from seeing at first hand the impact on colleagues of claims and complaints during his time at VDS.

FARMER-VET RELATIONSHIP KEY TO TACKLING ANTIMICROBIAL USE IN AGRICULTURE

The relationship between farmer and vet is key to the behaviour changes needed to reduce the use of antimicrobials in agriculture, according to new research funded by safefood.

Surveying more than 400 farmers and veterinarians on the island of Ireland, the two-year, cross-border project was led by a multi-disciplinary team involving Teagasc, Queen’s University Belfast and University College Dublin.

The research looked at the behaviours of farmers and veterinarians in the usage of antimicrobials, barriers and facilitators to responsible use, and the factors underpinning attitudes towards antimicrobial usage and antimicrobial resistance in meat and dairy-producing animals.

Among farmers, 64% said they had already made some changes to their antimicrobial usage and in general were positively disposed towards future changes to their usage practices.

The introduction of subsidised vaccination programmes or other financial incentives were also seen by farmers as positive levers to reduce usage. Among vets, the research identified barriers and facilitators towards more effective antimicrobial usage and how that could be practically implemented on the ground.

“This research project took a ground-up approach involving both famers and vets,” said Dr Gary Kearney, interim CEO safefood. “By understanding their shared experiences and knowledge as well as co-creating interventions with farmers and vets that could work, we’re more informed on how best to tackle the issue of antimicrobial usage in agriculture.”

Dr David McKeown, winner of the Chiron cup, and Justine Shotton, outgoing BVA president.

SPAR NI’S 12 DEALS OF CHRISTMAS PROMISES BASKET SPEND SPIKE FOR RETAILERS

Morethan 500 SPAR, EUROSPAR, ViVO, ViVOXTRA and ViVO Essentials retailers in Northern Ireland are participating in Henderson Wholesale’s annual 12 Deals of Christmas campaign for 2022.

The festive initiative runs until December 18, promising value deals on high demand products, including one week of double deals.

12 Deals of Christmas has become Henderson Wholesale’s flagship footfall and sales driving initiative for its stores, which sees the wholesaler invest around £1.7m to provide the cut price deals for retailers to offer shoppers.

Since its inception in 2016, retail sales have experienced growth of over 67% after generating over £5.9m of sales in 2021. Data from 2021 indicates 20% growth in sales from the previous year.

“Christmas is weighing heavily on consumers’ shoulders this year, so we are conscious that

SUPERVALU BRAND REJUVENATION AMONG WINNERS AT CREATIVE RETAIL AWARDS

our deals will have quite an expectation to help towards that long shopping list for the festive season,” said Sara Murphy, marketing manager at Henderson Group.

Over 80% stated SPAR’s 12 Deals of Christmas campaign offers were better than supermarket prices*, with 71% saying the campaign would make them want to shop at SPAR, EUROSPAR and ViVO branded stores more often*.

Retailers will also benefit from a fully integrated £525,000 marketing campaign. TV ads will feature families who have gotten carried away with the deals, unable to resist a bargain, while adshels and 48-sheets will complement radio and social media activity.

*Henderson Wholesale 12 Deals of Christmas Online Shopper Survey, December 2021

Household and Tap Creative.

Winning Store-in-store or Concession was Asda for its Craft on Draft partnership.

POP/POS Concept went to Nestlé with Tokinomo for Maggi’s Singing Soup Pot, which also won Innovative Display Product with highly commended awarded to Imperial Tobacco and Insight Print Media for Bestway Wholesale tobacco focus bays.

The Awards, hosted by industry body SDEA, also saw a Judges’ Choice Award go to Portuguese tinned goods store Comur Coimbra, from Grupo O Valor do Tempo.

The Creative Retail Awards have recognised the very best in retail, leisure, and hospitality design and display since 2018, with categories including sustainability, omni-channel, technology, VM schemes, POP/POS, shopfitting, store design, experience and innovation.

Musgrave, Asda, Nestlé and Imperial Tobacco are among grocery sector stakeholders picking up accolades at the Creative Retail Awards 2022 held recently in London.

Musgrave Retail Partners Ireland won the category of Food, Beverage & Supermarket Design for the SuperValu brand rejuvenation of its Knocklyon Store in partnership with

MOY PARK ROADSHOW RETURNS WITH A VISIT TO ITS CRAIGAVON HQ

The Good Food Roadshow, a Moy Park initiative aimed at recognising the hard work and dedication of its employees, has returned with a visit to the poultry processor’s Craigavon headquarters.

The 2022 judging panel independently shortlisted and selected the winning and highly commended entries submitted by suppliers, designers and retailers from across the globe.

Held at Proud Embankment on September 22 and shunning the traditional gala dinner format, the Awards ceremony was interspersed with enthralling live acts, finishing with a live band and DJ into the small hours.

Employees at the Craigavon site were treated to a day of food, freebies and fun with special competitions and giveaways, as well as a lunch featuring Moy Park-branded products.

“The Good Food Roadshow has been really well received now at both Craigavon and Dungannon and we can’t wait to continue the Good Food Roadshow by visiting the Ballymena site in November to thank our employees for all their hard work on our Moy Park branded products – bringing them to

our stores and dinner tables across the UK and Ireland,” said Ellen Wright, senior brand marketing manager at Moy Park.

“We are very proud of the Moy Park brand and the quality of products within the range. The Good Food Roadshow gives us the perfect chance to show our appreciation and give back.

“There was something for everyone to try, from chicken wraps to the new buttermilk chicken burgers and tempura chicken stir fry.”

Rachel Morton, Sara Murphy and Stephanie Tares from Henderson Group launch SPAR NI’s 12 Deals of Christmas for 2022.

NEW INVEST NI PROGRAMME OFFERS SUPPORT FOR SMES TO GROW EXPORTS

EconomyMinister Gordon Lyons has launched a new Invest Northern Ireland programme to support the growth of local SME businesses across Northern Ireland.

Ambition to Grow is a £1.8m regionally focused support programme, developed by Invest NI to support innovative, export-driven SMEs to create jobs and sell outside Northern Ireland.

“The programme is being specifically managed by Invest NI’s Regional Team and will ensure businesses in every region will benefit,” said Lyons. “It will help them to create skilled jobs, grow their business through exports, and work towards reaching a turnover of over £1m.

“My Department’s 10X Economic Vision recognises that we are a small,

competitive economy and highlights the important role that SMEs play in developing this success further.”

Following the application process, each successful business will receive up to £45,000 in support towards the creation of a minimum of three jobs and business development activities.

TITANIC DISTILLERS TARGETS GLOBAL SALES & TOURISM WITH £7.6M INVESTMENT

Titanic Distillers is investing £7.6m to create a new whiskey distillery and visitor centre in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, including redevelopment of the Titanic Pump-House and the creation of 41 jobs.

“There is a significant global market opportunity for Irish whiskey and we’re already seeing great success for our Titanic Distillers Premium Irish Whiskey in retailers throughout Great Britain,” said Richard Irwin, director of Titanic Distillers.

“With significant investment in a dedicated distillery, we’ll soon be able to produce and bottle our own products on this historic site and build on our success to date to grow in global markets, with an initial focus on the US.

“We’re very excited to embrace the history of our distillery’s location to create a unique product and visitor experience in a World Heritage Site, immersed in the spirit of Belfast’s industrial and maritime past.”

Due to open later this year, the conversion will include the installation of three large stills on a mezzanine floor overlooking the original pumping engines. All of the original pump equipment and associated internal historic features of the building will be retained.

Invest Northern Ireland has provided support towards the creation of the 41 jobs and property assistance towards the redevelopment of the Pump-House.

Titanic Distillers has also availed of £2m of funding from Whiterock Finance through the Growth Finance Fund, part of Invest NI’s Access to Finance suite of funds, with finance provided by the British Business Bank, Invest NI and private investors, Northern Ireland Local Government Officers’ Superannuation Committee.

Support will be awarded to applicants on a competitive basis.

Mel Chittock, Invest NI interim CEO, said: “As the business landscape has continually evolved, we’re exploring new ways in which we can effectively provide best-fit support to businesses.

“Ambition to Grow has been designed to offer a new competitive approach, with a focus on supporting ambitious, innovative SMEs that are in the earliest stages of their development and who have had no support from us in the past five years.

“The support will be split evenly across our Regional Office network, with the top 10 applications from each region receiving support.”

Applications will close at 12 noon on Friday, November 25.

TAYTO GROUP EXPANDS ITS LISTING WITH 50 ASDA STORES IN SCOTLAND

Armagh-based Tayto Group has secured a listing across 50 Asda stores in Scotland for three additional lines of crisps including two new products.

The new lines will include Golden Wonder 75th Anniversary Crisps, and Golden Wonder Ringos Puffs Barbeque and Sweet Chilli variants.

Founded in 1956, the Tandragee business is a major supplier of own-label snacks to retailers including Asda, which it has been supplying for over 20 years.

Employing over 1,600 people across six sites, including almost 200 in Northern Ireland, the group also owns several popular snack brands including Golden Wonder, Mr Porky and Tayto.

“Asda’s local sourcing strategy, that tailors its range for the Scottish market, has provided this opportunity to share Golden Wonder’s 75th celebrations with Asda shoppers in our Scottish heartland,” said Matt Smith, Golden Wonder marketing director.

“We wanted our fans to be part of our 75th birthday and so gave them the chance to vote to bring back their all-time favourite flavours.

“In the vote, the clear winners were Beef & Onion and Chip Shop Curry which are both back in a six pack along with our iconic Cheese & Onion, all in the classic 1970s design that many will remember from their childhood.”

Mel Chittock, interim CEO, and Alan McKeown, chief transformation officer, Invest NI, with Economy Minister Gordon Lyons.

Peter Lavery and Richard Irwin, directors, Titanic Distillers; Mel Chittock, Invest NI interim CEO; and Economy Minister Gordon Lyons.

Paul Moore, Tayto Group, and Cathy Elliott, Asda buying manager for NI Local.

MARS WRIGLEY EUROPE COMMITS TO 100% RESPONSIBLY SOURCED COCOA FROM 2023

MarsWrigley has reached a key milestone in its commitment to sourcing its cocoa responsibly, with 100% of the cocoa purchased for its direct factory operations in Europe to be verified as responsibly sourced cocoa from 2023.

This means the company will purchase a volume of responsibly sourced cocoa equivalent to the volumes used in its European production, going into its popular lines Snickers, M&Ms, Mars, Dove/Galaxy, Maltesers and Milky Way.

This transition to 100% responsibly sourced cocoa is a key part of Mars Wrigley’s Cocoa for Generations Strategy, established in 2018 with the aim of delivering real, lasting positive change across the supply chain for

future generations.

It focuses on critical issues to be addressed for cocoa farming families to thrive, taking action to help protect children, preserve forests, and improve farmer income.

“Cocoa is key to our global chocolate brands and to the livelihoods of an estimated 350,000 cocoa farmers in our supply chain,” said Benjamin Guilbert, vice president procurement at Mars Wrigley Europe, CIS & Turkey. “As one of the world’s largest buyers of cocoa, we have a responsibility to help drive positive, long-lasting, systemic impact to support the farmers and communities in our supply chain.”

As outlined in the latest Cocoa for Generations update report launched on September 18, Mars Wrigley is on

HENDERSON DIRECTOR RECOGNISED FOR LIFELONG SERVICE TO TRANSPORT INDUSTRY

track to reach its global goal of 100% of its cocoa being sourced through its Responsible Cocoa program and traceable to first point of purchase by 2025.

CELEBRATING & SUPPORTING FAMILY FIRMS DURING THE COST-OF-LIVING CRISIS

Logistics Director

Henderson Group

Pat McGarry has been recognised at the annual Export & Freight Transport & Logistics Awards for his long and distinguished service to the industry.

He was presented with the Transport Personality of the Year award, sponsored by Stena Line, at a ceremony in the Crowne Plaza Belfast, an event attended by almost 600 guests from all sectors of the transport and logistics industry and compered by TV personality Sarah Travers and actor and comedian Tim McGarry.

Throughout a career of almost four decades in the logistics sector, McGarry has been a strong and proactive leader, introducing and directing many innovative large-scale projects to streamline processes, reduce environmental impact and improve working conditions.

He has worked for the Henderson Group for the last 25 years and plans to retire early next year.

Today, thanks to concepts born from his ingenuity, the company is said to have the most technologically advanced and efficient warehouse facility in the country.

Having sat on the Board of Directors at Henderson’s for 23 years, McGarry has also been responsible for a number of innovations within the company’s logistics fleet; most notably, introducing the first static floor double deck trailer to Northern Ireland in conjunction with FG Wilsons.

He has played a key role in driving the logistics division, to both boost customer service to retailers as well as managing the company’s operational cost base in an effective way.

Aweek-long campaign aimed at highlighting the UK Family Business sector during the height of the cost-of-living crisis will take place this month.

Hosted by the Institute for Family Business (IFB) in partnership with NatWest, Family Business Week (FBW 2022) will be held over November 21-25.

As businesses across the UK face a difficult winter caused by rising energy prices, IFB is championing the amazing work family businesses do to foster economic growth and the role they play in shaping the fabric of their local communities and regions.

IFB will work with the Government to ensure business support is directed towards those organisations at risk from closing as a direct result of the cost-of-living crisis.

The week-long celebration will also include several business events hosted by the IFB, as well as MP visits to family firms and panel discussions around the theme for this year’s FBW.

This year’s campaign follows on from the success of Family Business Week 2021, which highlighted the role of family businesses in supporting local communities during the pandemic.

“This year’s campaign is perhaps even more urgent as thousands of family businesses face skyrocketing energy bills and are worried about how they will survive,” said Neil Davy, chief executive, IFB. “Family Business Week 2022 is about ensuring the Government realise business support is needed in order for firms to survive the winter months.”

Tim McGarry, host; Pat McGarry, Henderson Group; Anna Breen, Stena Line; and Sarah Travers, host.

SPADETOWN ADDS TO TEAM AS PART OF £800,000 INVESTMENT

personality of Spadetown, which is unlike anything else available in the local market.

“It has an entirely unique, but also typically Northern Irish sensibility, which we believe is a huge selling point for the brand and will sustain its upward trajectory as we expand our presence and grow sales volumes through new listings in on- and off-trade establishments over the coming months.”

Lurgan-based

Spadetown Brewing Co

has welcomed two new members to its team as part of a £800,000 investment which will include three new fermenters and an in-house canning line at its Silverwood Road production facility.

Dave Graham, Spadetown’s new ‘brew guru’, is overseeing development of three new product launches, a Raging Red Ale and Dark Cloud Stout, both of which will launch in the autumn, and a zero alcohol IPA due to be launched early next year.

He joins the Spadetown team alongside its new Commercial Director Annie David, who is tasked with developing the Spadetown brand proposition in the local market through new product launches,

securing retail listings and increasing its availability on draught in watering holes across Northern Ireland.

Launched in 2021 following a major investment by owners Martin Dummigan and Patrick McAliskey, Spadetown established a dedicated 5,000-square-foot production facility in its hometown of Lurgan.

“This latest investment sees the launch of three new limited-edition brews which will double our product range, building upon the early success of our core IPA, pilsner and lager to offer an assorted drinks selection, including a non-alcoholic option, to every consumer,” said David.

“The new products also reflect the

PLADIS BOOSTS UK & IRELAND LEADERSHIP TEAM WITH APPOINTMENTS

Pladis, one of the world’s leading snacking companies and home to brands such as McVitie’s and Jacob’s, has announced it is strengthening its UK and Ireland (UK&I) leadership team with the appointment of two new, channelspecific sales leadership roles.

To maximise growth opportunities across all channels in the region, Trevor Callander has assumed the role of vice president grocery, UK&I, while Florence Brain joins the team as impulse director, UK&I, focusing on the convenience and impulse channels.

With extensive experience including more than 20 years with General Mills, most recently Callander was sales, marketing and innovation director for Northern Europe at DS Smith. In this new role, he will focus on driving sustained category growth for pladis UK&I as well as steering its response to industry-wide challenges faced by the grocery sector,

such as high rates of inflation and regulatory change.

Meanwhile, Brain joins from Britvic, where she was director of category, shopper and trade engagement across the grocery, convenience, foodservice and hospitality channels. Brain will lead the impulse commercial team to drive strategic partnerships with customers and unlock new opportunities for pladis’ portfolio of well-known brands.

IMPERIAL TOBACCO APPOINTS NEW GENERAL MANAGER FOR UK & IRELAND

Imperial Tobacco has appointed Oliver Kutz to the role of general manager UK & Ireland.

With over 20 years’ experience in the tobacco industry, Kutz brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role having previously been appointed as general manager Central & Eastern Europe at Imperial Brands in 2021.

Prior to this, he held the position of president and CEO of ITG Brands, a subsidiary of Imperial Brands.

With a PhD in Marketing from the University of Hamburg, Germany, Kutz frequently lectures at the International MBA Program at the University of Hamburg and has authored various books and articles on business strategy and brand management.

“I really look forward to moving into this new role at the company and having the opportunity to further build our strong relationships with trade partners,” he said. “One of my main priorities will be to drive forward Imperial’s next generation business to deliver a healthier future, while also developing our combustible business in line with the ever-evolving needs of our adult consumers.”

Criostoir McConville, brewer; Dave Graham, brew guru; Annie David, commercial director; and Martin Dummigan, Spadetown co-founder.

Oliver Kutz

Florence Brain

SHELFLIFE

BABY FOOD ENTREPRENEUR EXPANDS INTO ALLERGY-FRIENDLY SNACKING

Tyrone-basedfood brand Beam has launched a range of crispy puff seed bars which are free from the top 14 allergens, plant based, gluten free, high in fibre and non-HFSS (high in fat, sugar and salt).

The brand was recently created by businesswoman Shauna Blair in response to her own experience of dealing with allergies and food intolerances in her family over many years, as well as growing market demand from consumers seeking foods free from allergens.

“I created Beam when I struggled to find a healthy snack bar that I could bring into our home, that both me and my family could enjoy,” said Blair.

“One of my children has a nut allergy and, as someone who is passionate about healthy eating, for the past 17 years I could never find a healthy snack bar that either didn’t

contain nuts, or quite simply had a ‘may contain traces of nuts’ statement on the pack, so I just couldn’t risk it.

“All our products are produced in a certified nut free and gluten free facility giving complete trust and provenance to our consumers.

“Whilst for some, allergen free foods may form a lifestyle choice as part of a food trend, for many consumers unfortunately this is a need state which remains under served.

“The free-from sector in the supermarket didn’t exist when my children were diagnosed with food allergies, and whilst it has grown immensely over the past 15 years, there is still room for improvement.”

Blair, a mother of four children, has a successful track record in the development of innovative foods, having formed Heavenly Tasty Organics for babies and toddlers in 2009.

TREK ADDS PEANUT BUTTER BAR TO PROTEIN FLAPJACKS RANGE

Natural snacking brand TREK has expanded its range of Protein Flapjacks with the addition of a Peanut Butter bar that will join its existing Cocoa Oat, Salted Caramel, Smooth Lemon, White Choc and Raspberry, Cocoa Coconut and Original Oat varieties.

Made with naturally glutenfree oats and covered in a layer of rich peanut butter flavoured topping, the new bar is aimed at an increasing number of shoppers seeking convenient, tasty and healthy snacks to have on the go, and positioned to capitalise on increasing consumer demand for natural plant-based protein.

TREK’s new Peanut Butter Protein Flapjack is a vegan snack, packed with 100% plant-based ingredients, gluten-free oats and 9g of plant-based protein, and is a source of fibre.

“TREK has had a really strong last 12 months, despite the total category being hit by the pandemic, and has grown by +27.2%[1] with our Flapjack

range being one of the main drivers of this growth,” said Alice Boardman, TREK senior brand manager.

“UK consumers are snacking now more than ever with 66% of UK adults snacking at least once a day and 77% of bar shoppers now looking for added protein. So, it felt like the perfect time to launch our new Peanut Butter Protein Flapjack, taking inspiration from an increasingly popular and on-trend flavour, as well as once again partnering with FitBit to offer shoppers the chance to win one of 185 Fitbit Versa 3.0s.”

TREK’s Peanut Butter Protein Flapjacks are now available in Sainsbury’s, Booths and Asda launching later this year into Tesco, and will be available online via Ocado in the coming months.

Shauna Blair, founder of Beam.

CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIEDS

IN THE

Hot Seat

NAME: MERVYN KENNEDY

JOB TITLE: DIRECTOR

NAMES: KENNEDY BACON

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF

I have a dual role of factory manager and pig farmer. I have had a life-time commitment to farming and been part of the Northern Ireland food industry over the past 20 years.

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY INVOLVE?

First of all, there is no such thing as a typical day, but early morning pre-7am I will be working with the animals. I go in, shower and back out to the factory to see the stock and vans as they leave for deliveries to the various shops etc. Mid mornings and early afternoons are spent contacting customers and meeting with various clients in order to accumulate new customers. Evenings are spent visiting outlets that are not open during the day, pizza places and takeaways, and leaving off samples of our products. Arriving back home to revisit the animals and ensure they are all fed, watered and healthy.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE?

No massive highlights come to mind, but

I am in a constant battle to improve the business all the time.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?

I really enjoy my work with the animals, I tend to relax when I am amongst them.

I also love working at markets and enjoy meeting people and especially enjoy the camaraderie of the market traders.

WHAT IS YOUR MOST DIFFICULT TASK?

In the current climate, the most difficult task is trying to make ends meet and at the same time keeping our quality product at the lowest possible price.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED?

Simply, get up each morning and keep going, doing the best you can.

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST GRIPE?

Trying to organise everything around regulations.

WHAT TALENT WOULD YOU LIKE TO

HAVE?

To be able to see into the future –forward vision.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS/ AMBITIONS?

My greatest ambition would be to continue to expand the business, but in the current climate this will need a lot of thought.

WHOM DO YOU MOST ADMIRE?

My late father who kept the farm business together through difficult times, with my mother working closely by his side.

WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE?

I love walking on Killyhoey Beach in Donegal, and I love living in Glenhordial, my home.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD PRODUCT?

It has to be a good holiday bacon or ham.

HOW DO YOU RELAX?

Walking is my favorite form of relaxation.