Ulster Grocer October 2019 by Helen Wright

GROCER ULSTER

Over 45 years at the heart of the Northern Ireland food industry

OCTOBER 2019

N O. 1 M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E LO C A L G R O C E R Y S E C TO R

GROCER ULSTER

OCTOBER 2019

N O. 1 M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E LO C A L G R O C E R Y S E C TO R

Over 45 years at the heart of the Northern Ireland food industry

FOOD FORCE IRELAND USHERS IN A NEW ERA

changing of the guard marked the 11th annual Food Force Ireland Direct Trade Supplier Day, with the Nisa buying group honouring a number of retirees and welcoming new board members. Held at the Culloden on September 24, the vibrant trade show was preceded by a lunch event at which supplier awards were handed out and Jonathan Crawford (Crawfords) was named as the new chairman, replacing longstanding predecessor Henry Emerson (Emersons). “Without Henry’s selfless dedication over the years, none of us would be here today and I’d like to wish him a very healthy, long and happy retirement,” said Crawford. New members of the Food Force Ireland board were named as Finlay Robinson (Robinson’s Nisa Extra), Michael Johnson (Fresh Food Centres) and Henry’s son Gavin Emerson. The new chairman also honoured Derrick Murphy, who was retiring last month as regional development & sales manager at Britvic, with a Special Recognition Award. With Britvic for 42 years, Crawford said Murphy “has worked with a couple of generations of families within Food Force. His team provides an amazing level of professionalism within our businesses and it’s no accident that his company have yet again retained their Supplier of the Year award.”

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STORE FOCUS: PARTNERSHIP WITH THE HENDERSON GROUP AND A £1.7M INVESTMENT HAS RESULTED IN THE DOUBLING OF TURNOVER FOR SWIFT’S EUROSPAR LISNASKEA

SHORTAGE OF NI HIGH STREET PHARMACISTS AT ‘CRISIS POINT’ BY LISA SMYTH

N From left, Derrick Murphy with Jonathan Crawford, chairman of Food Force Ireland.

As well as Supplier of the Year for Britvic, other awards went to Hovis Ireland (Bread & Cake), Britvic (Soft Drinks), Tayto (Ambient) and Kerry Foods (Chilled & Frozen), with Kerry Maxwell of Hovis Ireland named Account Manager of the Year and a new award of Licensed Supplier going to Philip Russell. Food Force Ireland Trading Controller Debra Johnson said she expected transactions on the day will have easily topped last year’s £1m milestone. “I am thrilled with this year’s event,” she said. “It was so well attended by suppliers and members, and the awards went down very well.” Johnson also had words of praise for former Chairman Henry Emerson, who served in the role for 26 years. “He is a very wise and learned man, who brought so much experience to the board and was instrumental in keeping everyone stable,” she said.

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TESCO TASTE FESTIVAL:

A TOTAL OF 53 PRODUCERS ATTENDED THE 11TH ANNUAL TESCO TASTE FESTIVAL, HELD AT CUSTOM HOUSE SQUARE IN BELFAST OVER SEPTEMBER 20-22

orthern Ireland is short of 320 community pharmacists to provide a safe service, it has been warned. Community pharmacists, who run High Street chemists, have reported working up to 100 hours a week as chronic underfunding of the service drives it to crisis point. A Department of Health scheme aimed at helping to reduce the strain on overworked GPs is also being blamed for pushing the community pharmacy service to breaking point. About 400 pharmacists have left the service in the last two years around 170 of them to take up posts working in GP practices as part of the practice-based pharmacist scheme. Earlier this week, the Department of Health announced it will invest a further £2.19m to support the roll-out of the scheme, as part of an overall £26.7m package to help family doctors. At the same time, however, community pharmacist fees have reduced by about 30% despite the fact their workload has increased by 40% over the past nine years.

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GOING FOR GOLD:

LEADING FIELD MARKETING COMPANY PRL IN-MARKET SOLUTIONS IS AIMING FOR ANOTHER RAFT OF ACCOLADES AT THE FIELD MARKETING & BRAND EXPERIENCE AWARDS

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FOOD TO GO: GROCERY RETAILERS ARE EXPANDING THEIR RANGES TO MEET GROWING CONSUMER DEMAND FOR DIVERSE, CONVENIENT AND HEALTHY READY-TOEAT OPTIONS

email: info@ulstergrocer.com Volume 54, Number 9 OCTOBER 2019

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EDITORIAL COMMENT

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HALLOWEEN LOOKS SCARIER THAN EVER

ctober has rolled around again, another Tesco Taste Festival and Food Force Ireland Direct Trade Supplier Day are in the bag, and Halloween is fast approaching. And as we all know, and wish we didn’t, this year’s Halloween could potentially be scarier than ever before if Boris ‘Brexit-on-October 31-deal-or-nodeal’ Johnson gets his way Perhaps he won’t if the latest instalment in the tragicomedy of British politics is anything to go by. In a jaw-dropping 24 hours coinciding with a meeting of the two bizarrely-barneted world leaders in New York, the British PM’s prorogation was deemed unlawful in a unanimous ruling by the Supreme Court and Parliament was reinstated (while US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced an impeachment investigation into President Donald Trump). With Parliament back in session, Attorney General Geoffrey Cox meanwhile launched into a crazed tirade about remainers being turkeys who wouldn’t be able to prevent Christmas, making Speaker John Bercow appear shy and retiring in comparison. Amid the absurd theatre of it all, the grocery food chain - from farmers, processors and retailers to the logistics sector and other ancillary services - has been left in limbo with no indication of what lies ahead. As the countdown turns from months to weeks, and shortly to days, businesses have no idea if or how they’ll be able to stock their shelves or send produce to markets beyond Northern Ireland. The voices continue to get louder and more unanimous, in terms of the threat to the Northern Ireland economy from a no-deal Brexit, and we can only hope a last-minute deal is secured or Brexit is delayed (or abandoned altogether…) Of course, to take your mind off the

agony of it all, our October edition of Ulster Grocer features a myriad of vibrant grocery businesses. Musgrave and the Henderson Group have flown the flag for home grown retail with an impressive haul of accolades at retail awards in London last month, with winners including this month’s store focus - Swift’s EUROSPAR Lisnaskea. And Nisa retailers were out in ‘force’ for the Food Force Ireland Direct Trade Supplier Day, which is covered in news on p3 and will be followed up with a wider review next month. Meanwhile, the multiple and discount retail sectors have been working hard to shine a light on their local-sourcing credentials. The last month has seen Tesco hosting its 11th annual Taste Festival, a consumer show highlighting the retail giant’s local suppliers, while NI”s fastest-growing grocery retailer Lidl published a new report focused on its contribution to the local economy. Local press were given a tour around the discount retailer’s Nutts Corner distribution centre, and a very slick operation it proved to be. With its pared-down stock and replicated floor space between warehouse and stores, the Lidl business model is a blueprint in efficiency. But, as Stephen Swift mentions in his store profile, not everyone is Lidl and not everyone wants to be Lidl. In Northern Ireland’s new retail landscape, there is certainly an appetite for Lidl but also for other retail offers too as attested to by the many buoyant businesses in the independent and symbol group sectors. Enjoy…

Alyson Magee

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NEWS

NUTRITIONAL RISKS REPLACE SMOKING AS SOCIETY’S ‘BIGGEST KILLER’ D iseases such as diabetes, cancer, obesity, Alzheimer’s and coronary disease account for the single-largest burden on the public purse in the UK, an estimated annual £148bn, delegates heard at a conference held last month in Queen’s University Belfast. Nita Forouhi, a professor of population health and nutrition and an honorary consultant with Public Health England, delivered the keynote speech at the Growing a Healthy Society – The Role of Food event, organised by the Institute for Global Food Security at Queen’s in partnership with the Oxford Farming Conference (OFC). Referring to a recent Eat Lancet report, she said the “trilemma” facing society – the relationship between diet, environmental sustainability and health – could only be solved by farmers, food producers, food retailers, scientists and regulators coming together. The idea of “food as medicine” was a game-changer – that by encouraging

From left, event chair Anna Hill is pictured with the OFC directors.

better diets, public health could be improved, easing the burden on the health service and our economy. It had only been in recent years, she added, that it had been proven, for example, that diabetes could be reversed through diet. Asked what constituted a healthy diet, particularly in terms of weight loss, she said the best diet was “the one you can stick to”. Another speaker, Professor Alice

Stanton of the Royal College of Surgeons in Dublin, said nutritional risks had “taken over from cigarette smoking as the biggest killer”. She said the current emphasis on eating less meat was driven by environmental arguments, rather than health. Her research indicated red meat caused “less than 1% of nutrition-related deaths” and that, eaten in moderation (two to five times per week), red meat actually had a positive effect on health.

TRADE NI ALLIANCE LAUNCHES 10-YEAR PLAN

Pictured at Westminster on September 11 are the representatives of Trade NI: from left, Glyn Roberts, Retail NI; Colin Neill, Hospitality Ulster; and Stephen Kelly, Manufacturing NI.

educing the regulatory burden on businesses, increasing the skills base and delivering a clear economic strategy for Northern Ireland are among proposals outlined in Vision 2030, Trade NI’s 10-year plan launched last month. Trade NI, an alliance of Hospitality Ulster, Manufacturing NI and Retail NI, introduced the plan to over 350 MPs, peers and business representatives at a reception in Westminster on September 11. Representing the largest-ever delegation of the Northern Ireland business community to visit Westminster, the reception was attended by Secretary

of State for Northern Ireland Julian Smith and shadow Secretary of State Tony Lloyd. Some of the delegation also attended a working lunch at the Irish Embassy and evening reception at Downing Street. Trade NI says its economic plan sets out key policy priorities with the potential to create 65,000 jobs and make Northern Ireland a high-growth economy. Currently the local business community is hampered by increased operational costs, and complexities related to both Brexit uncertainty and the collapse of Stormont. In a joint statement, the representatives of Trade NI, Colin Neill (Hospitality Ulster), Stephen Kelly (Manufacturing NI) and Glyn Roberts (Retail NI) said: ‘Northern Ireland is facing a huge challenge as it struggles politically and economically with a growth forecast of around 1% or below. This is simply not good enough and we can’t sit idly by and let events overtake us. We must break the cycle of limited economic growth.’

BUSINESS RATES REVIEW WELCOMED

etail NI has welcomed publication of a Business Rates Review consultation by the Department of Finance last month, while expressing the hope it will deliver a step change to fix the current “broken and antiquated system”. “Fixing business rates is Retail NI’s top priority, given that our members pay the highest rates in the UK,” said Glyn Roberts, chief executive, Retail NI. “Retail NI wants to see the targeted approach to small business rate relief, which was put forward by the last Finance Minister, Rethinking Rates, as a vital starting point. These proposals include enhanced rates relief for the mainstays of the high streetindependent retail and hospitality businesses.”

NEWS

LIDL GROWING SALES AT FOUR TIMES THE NI AVERAGE BY ALYSON MAGEE

idl is continuing to lead growth in the Northern Ireland grocery market, increasing its sales by 7.6% and its market share by 0.4% to 6.1% in the past year, according to the latest data from Kantar Worldpanel. To mark its 20th anniversary in Northern Ireland, the German discount retailer has commissioned an Oxford Economics report outlining its contribution to the local economy, in which it highlights annual growth of 7.5% since 2008; four times the NI retail average. Unveiling the report at an event in its Nutts Corner distribution centre, Lidl Ireland & Northern Ireland Managing Director JP Scally said the retailer has set its sights on growing store numbers from a current 38 to 50 and beyond over the next few years with demand and population growth likely to determine new store locations. “We’ve had two decades of fantastic success in Northern Ireland and how we’ve achieved that is quite simply by offering good quality, locally-sourced produce at good value,” said Scally. “We might have our origins in Germany, but we’ve very much made ourselves local through our investment in Northern

Ireland and the support we’ve given.” Further, unlike multiple retailers listing anywhere from 40,000 to 70,000 lines, Lidl’s streamlined business model has aided its growth. “If you walk into our stores, you’d find somewhere between 2,000 and 2,500 product lines so that gives us huge efficiencies in our operating model,” he said. “When you go through our distribution centre, you’ll see how efficient and smooth the operation is. Those efficiencies flow right though onto the shop floor as well.” In addition to store layout replicating Lidl’s distribution centres, its produce is displayed in shelf-ready cases instore, significantly reducing packing time on the shop floor. Kantar Worldpanel’s 52-week figures, meanwhile, also indicated drop in market share of 0.3% to 35% for Tesco (50 stores); 0.2% to 17.1% for Sainsbury’s (14 stores); and 0.3% to 16.8% for Asda (17 stores). Total local grocery sales grew at 1%, with supermarkets representing 83.8%, and convenience stores’ share stable at 8%, while other retail outlets comprised 8.2% of the market.

MOY PARK TOPS NI SALES FIGURES WITH £1.6BN TURNOVER BY MARGARET CANNING

he group behind poultry processor Moy Park has reported a 4% increase in turnover to £1.6bn - the highest sales figure for any NI business. Pre-tax profits at the Craigavon-based business, which has been part of US giant Pilgrim’s Pride since 2017, also soared by 13% from £43.9m to £49.7m last year. The Moy Park Europe (Holdings) annual report said its workforce is now 10,307 across 12 processing facilities in NI, England, France and the Netherlands - an increase of 2%. There are 6,239 staff in NI, in Ballymena, Craigavon and Dungannon, headed by Chris Kirke. As well as providing chicken and turkey products to retailers and catering 6

customers, Moy Park has also developed convenience food lines. The company report said that the takeover by Pilgrim’s Pride - the secondbiggest poultry processor in the world - had ‘offered great opportunities to the company’. But the group also said that Brexit brought a number of challenges. ‘The group has access to a global supply chain and expertise to meet such challenges,’ said the report. ‘The group put in place a Brexit steering committee following the EU referendum result which is focused on positioning the group for the eventual outcome. The group is focused predominantly on domestic markets which will help reduce any such impact.’

CLARIFICATION ON CUSTOMS DECLARATIONS VITAL Logistics organisation FTA is urging Northern Ireland’s traders to recognise how and where customs declarations are to be made after the UK’s departure from the EU, to protect the country’s interconnected and highly complex supply chain from breakdown after Brexit. FTA is concerned many are unaware confusion still exists among hauliers and shippers about the method and location of any postBrexit import/export declarations. FTA’s Seamus Leheny is calling on government to provide guidance for both sectors to ensure traders realise their responsibilities for declarations and prevent the supply chain grinding to a halt after October 31.

NEWRY SERVICE STATION INVESTMENT TO CREATE 60 RETAIL JOBS Planning approval has been granted for a £6m motorway service station project in Newry with the potential to create 80 jobs during its construction and 60 full-time retail jobs. Maxol submitted a planning application in August 2017 for a motorway service area on the Armagh Road outside the city. While Maxol has around 100 petrol stations in Northern Ireland, the Newry site represents only its second motorway location.

BEEF FARMERS INCOME FALLS BY £27.5M Local beef farmers have lost over £27.5m in income as a result of a “perfect storm” of challenges in the last nine months, according to Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU), which is calling for government support. “The beef market has been in a steady decline over the last nine months with export and domestic markets under pressure,” said Sam Chesney, UFU beef and lamb chairman. “Coupled with a drop in the value of sterling, a reduction in consumption, Brexit uncertainty, and the foodservice sector sourcing more red meat from third countries, beef farmers are facing a perfect storm of challenges.”

NEWS

UFU LAUNCHES INAUGURAL WOMEN IN AGRICULTURE CONFERENCE

lster Farmers’ Union is to host its first women in agriculture conference aimed at recognising the contributions of women working in Northern Ireland’s agri-food industry. The free event will take place on November 15 at CAFRE Greenmount Campus. “Women have always played a crucial role in farm businesses and in the wider agriculture industry,” said Jennifer Hawkes, rural affairs policy committee chairperson, UFU. “However, with farming being seen historically as predominately male-led, the aim of this conference is to raise the profile of women working in agriculture and the valuable contributions they make.” The event offers a packed programme and an impressive line-up of speakers. Keynote speakers include Hannah Jackson, aka the Red Shepherdess from Channel 4’s SAS: Who Dares Wins, and Joyce Bannerman-Campbell a sheep farmer from Sutherland Scotland and co-

From left, Roseann Kelly, WIB chief executive; Jennifer Hawkes, UFU rural affairs chairperson; Ruth Sanderson, BBC; and Paula McIntyre, chef.

chairperson of the Scottish government’s Women in Agriculture Taskforce. Both will offer their own perspectives on the contributions of women to agriculture and share ideas on how to ensure opportunities enabling more women to join the industry are developed and capitalised on. “The UFU is delighted to welcome Hannah and Joyce, and they will be joined by a number of other women sharing their experiences of working in agriculture,” said Hawkes. “This conference is for everyone with an interest in furthering the contributions

of women in agriculture. However, we are especially keen to see women who are working on farms or in the industry attending. This is an event not to be missed and I would encourage those interested to book early.” Conference speakers also include: Rhonda Geary, operations director for RUAS; Deirdre O’Shea, executive director for Agri-Aware; Jo-anne Dobson of Kidney Research UK; and Zita Blair, YFCU president. Chef Paula McIntyre will also be cooking up some local seasonal dishes and the conference will be compered by Ruth Sanderson from BBC’s Homeground programme. The UFU recently launched an exciting new partnership with Women in Business (WIB) and there will be an opportunity to hear more about this at the conference from WIB Chief Executive Roseann Kelly and WIB member Tracy Hamilton. Visit www.ufuni.org to book your place or, for more information, contact UFU HQ on 02890 370 222.

STORE FOCUS

SWIFT’S EUROSPAR LISNASKEA PARTNERSHIP WITH THE HENDERSON GROUP AND A £1.7M INVESTMENT HAS RESULTED IN THE DOUBLING OF TURNOVER, STORE OWNER STEPHEN SWIFT TELLS UG

From left, Paddy Doody, sales & marketing director, Henderson Group and Stephen Swift, store owner, Swift’s EUROSPAR Lisnaskea.

ombining the personal touch of a local family business with the expertise of a global retail brand, the Henderson Group has proved an ideal partner for Swift’s EUROSPAR Lisnaskea. “They’ve given us really good support in terms of our business development on the ground,” says Stephen Swift, who also owns Swift’s SPAR Roslea. “We run a family business with myself and my sister Sandra on the ground on a daily basis and have the added experience of my father Philip in the background if we ever need to tap into his years of retail experience. When we initially got involved with Hendersons, we could see clearly how the Agnew family have a strong input into their business and, combined with Paddy Doody and his team who are very much hands on, we felt it was a winning combination. 8

“If there is ever a query requiring any support, they’re all on the end of the phone. It is fantastic to be able to approach the owners and directors of a company like that, because sometimes larger companies are more faceless.” And, at the same time as offering accessibility, the Henderson Group can tap into the SPAR brand’s global assets. The Swift family has participated in four study tours to the USA, Norway and continental Europe over the last few years, “and what amazed me was the scale of the SPAR brand,” says Stephen. “You feel proud when you realise you’re a member of such a huge global retail franchise. It’s a great brand to be part of, there’s a wealth of information available to us in terms of sharing knowledge, product range and innovation. “We’ve seen great growth since we

moved over to the Henderson Group, with strong like-for-like growth and improved margin. It’s very much been a positive move for us.” The site of Swift’s EUROSPAR Lisnaskea was originally purchased by the Swift family as a small Shell shop and forecourt operation in 1997. In 1999, the family expanded the shop to 5,000 square feet and rebranded it as a SuperValu, with the Musgrave partnership continuing until 2015 when the family moved its two stores to Henderson Group brands. “We could see the continued growth of the EUROSPAR brand locally,” he says. “Strength in numbers really speaks volumes for the offering they had. And we also spoke to a lot of other independent retailers who were under the EUROSPAR and SPAR brands and they were all very positive about the offering Henderson’s were bringing to the table. We just felt it was a good opportunity for us to try something different.” In tandem with the Lisnaskea store’s conversion to the EUROSPAR brand, the Swifts again expanded the site, more than doubling the retail space to 11,000 square feet. A total of £1.7m was invested in the 2015 expansion, including energy efficiency measures such as LED lighting and a heat recovery system. The complex now includes a 24-hour Star-branded forecourt supplied by Nicholl Oils, Subway franchise operated by the Swift family and an off licence. The instore offer includes Family Butchers and Mauds Ice Cream counters and a Café 33 seating area with free WiFi. FRESH & FOOD-TO-GO FOCUS Perhaps the most significant benefit of the 2015 investment, however, has been opening up the shop floor to an extensive fresh food and food-to-go offer. “We’ve seen an opportunity with the larger format store to go after fresh,” says Stephen. “It really is all about fresh in our store, and we’ve seen double-digit growth since we moved to Henderson’s.” One of the key assets of the partnership has been the delivery schedule. “We can place our chilled orders in the morning and receive the delivery in the evening, and we have that six days a week which is just first class for us in terms of delivering fresh,” he says. And a flexible approach to sourcing is a further benefit. “We’ve been able to work with a lot of local suppliers,”

STORE FOCUS

says Stephen. “EUROSPAR is all about local. We buy vast volumes through the warehouse, but the flexibility of the Henderson’s model means we can also select key local suppliers here, so it works very well for us.” Among local suppliers are Erne Country Meats, Western Brand Poultry Products, Cavanagh Eggs, and Graydons Sweet Temptations and Melting Moments bakeries. Swift’s has its own Good Mood Food brand of ready meals produced in-store, including a popular line of Sunday dinners, and plans are afoot to expand and roll it out further in the future. The shop’s “back wall” of butchery, Subway, deli, fresh food, hot food to go and in-store bakery is “very strong for us,” says Stephen, as is its Barista Bar coffee. “People go out of their way to get

that coffee, and it seems to have really struck a chord with people who are out on the roads.” Average basket spend currently sits at around £13. “We are a supermarket as such, but we still try and mix in the element of convenience and have remodelled the till layout a few times since we opened. I think we’re perfectly formed in that sense; to tick the boxes in terms of convenience and the weekly trolley shop has always been a challenge but we feel our model is as good as it gets.” Swift’s EUROSPAR Lisnaskea is open seven days a week until 10.30pm, from 7am on Sundays and 6am all other days. Between the two shops, the Swift family employs around 120 full and part-time staff, with Swift’s SPAR Roslea also featuring an instore Post Office.

MARKETING & IT SUPPORT Strong marketing support for the EUROSPAR brand has been a further element driving the Swift family’s decision to partner with the Henderson Group. “It’s based on Your Community Supermarket, and that is what we’re about as a business,” says Stephen. “Initially you would wonder, how do you market a store of our size, but it is very much a hub in the community here. We’re involved in promotional activity for various community events and we sponsor the local GAA and soccer clubs, so the Your Community Supermarket strapline fits the bill perfectly.” Marketing support is also provided through the retail and wholesale partner in terms of digital assets to aid social media promotions and print marketing such as door-drop leaflets. Henderson Technology, meanwhile, lends support to its retail partners investing in the latest systems to aid shop efficiency from ordering and analysis of stock to the customer experience. Swift’s EUROSPAR Lisnaskea is introducing self-scanning checkouts in the New Year. “It seems to be an evermore popular part of local retail,” says Stephen. “We’re trying to replicate what the multiples do but, at the same time, we still want to maintain a very strong personal input into the business because local people like to see the owners on the shop floor and they like to communicate with our management team and staff who are their friends and neighbours.” Competition in the area includes a Lidl across the road, “a fairly aggressive retail competitor but I believe Lidl can’t offer what we offer,” says Stephen. “We’re an entirely different model and where we have fantastic customer service, an extensive range, deli and food to go and employ a huge number of local people, Lidl operate an entirely different business model and it’s not one that we’re looking to chase after. “Having recently been crowned Independent Retailer of the Year in our category at the Retail Industry Awards in London, we really are happy with the progress we made since our redevelopment and this certainly feeds into our hunger for seeking out more opportunities.” “Further development of the Lisnaskea shop is something we are already looking at. We have a very extensive site here and, in the future, there would be potential opportunities to look into retail units. “We’ve established a very strong business here and there’s a lot of scope for further development.” 9

MY LIFE IN THE GROCERY TRADE CHRISTINE COUSINS, EVENTS MANAGER FOR FOOD NI

BRIEFLY OUTLINE YOUR EMPLOYMENT HISTORY It is a little bit varied; I left school at 16 and had already started working in restaurants at 14. I went to Scotland and worked for three months in a hotel, then came back and worked in a beautiful jeweller’s for eight years, still working in restaurants at nights. I realised that I wanted to understand the processes behind the food, and I started with Clandeboye Yoghurt Company, working my way up to production manager. I had always wanted to work for Food NI so I knew I needed more experience and moved to Mash Direct. After gaining several years of experience there, I applied to Food NI and the rest is history. WHAT DOES YOUR ROLE INVOLVE? I organise events that will raise the profile of our members. We attend events throughout the UK and these help the producers meet buyers, support distributors they already have and test new markets. We are just back from the National Ploughing Championships and we are heading to Gifted in Dublin in December. Planning is afoot for the shows for next year and many are in the planning already.

WHEN DID YOU TAKE UP THIS POST? LinkedIn told me it was two years ago though it feels longer (in a good way). WHAT ARE THE BEST/ WORST PARTS OF YOUR JOB? The best part is the travel and the variety of work and the worst part is the paperwork but that comes with most jobs now I guess. BRIEFLY OUTLINE A TYPICAL DAY Thankfully each day is pretty varied; with events, there is a lot of paperwork but also a lot of meetings, making sure everything is in place for each event. This gets me out and about a fair bit and interaction with our members is a real bonus as they are all driven, enthusiastic people and I find them really inspiring as they are so passionate about what they do. WHAT HAS BEEN THE PROUDEST MOMENT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE? I think organising the first NI visit to Borough Market in London with our food and drink producers. It was logistically challenging. I met the 40ft lorry at Borough Market at 2.30am in the morning to offload the product. It

was fantastic to hear the feedback from consumers and the other traders about the quality of NI food and drink. We all know how fabulous it is, but that kind of recognition is heart-warming. Also, NI winning the Best Food Destination was a remarkable achievement. I felt really proud to be a part of the food industry when this was announced. BEST THING ABOUT THE LOCAL RETAIL INDUSTRY? Definitely getting to know the producers and hearing why they do what they do. The food industry is such hard work; I know this firsthand from my days at Clandeboye. It is physically challenging work and can be relentless. I am constantly in awe of the drive and determination of the producers. They do it for the love and pride they have in their products. WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO TO UNWIND AWAY FROM WORK? I’m trying to get a bit fitter and I like running, though I’m not good at it. I have to be honest though, I like eating out and relaxing too. I am currently doing Scuba training and hopefully I will get this finished before the winter. TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF THAT NOT MANY PEOPLE MAY KNOW I have done 48 solo skydives and hope to get more done on holiday.

RETAIL NEWS - INDEPENDENTS

CORRIES FARM BUTCHERS PARTNER WITH CHARITY CLOSE TO THEIR HEART

amily-run business Corries Farm Butchers has selected local charity Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke as their chosen charity for 2019/20. The Corrie family chose the cause as it is one that is close to their hearts after the head of the Corrie clan, Will Corrie Senior, suffered a heart attack in January of this year. “Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke was our first choice this year after our father’s heart attack,” said Julie, Will’s daughter. “Dad received excellent care following his heart attack and, seven months on, he has been through rehab classes, refined his diet, increased his exercise and is making good progress. “It is our sincere hope that the money raised through this charity partnership year will help to improve and increase the range of services and treatments available to support cardiac patients, like our dad. We hope that the public can join us in raising vital funds for this very worthy charity.” The partnership will see Corries’ staff and customers working with NI Chest Heart and Stroke to raise money through a number of fundraising, health promotion and awareness-raising activities. Fundraising efforts will take place throughout Corries’ seven shops located across Belfast, Dundonald and Newtownards, and also through their mobile app, where they have recently launched the ordering system for their ‘lighter choice’ range of nutritionally-balanced ready meals.

I PUBLISHER THANKED FOR ACCOMPANYING WEEKEND PRICE RISE WITH PRO RATA RETAIL TERMS

FRN National President Stuart Reddish has thanked the publisher of the i for accompanying a price rise on its weekend edition with pro rata terms. From September 14, the price of the iweekend rises by 20p to £1.20 and, with the margin that retailers receive remaining at 21.5% - the second highest in the marketplace - i stockists will now receive 25.8p on every copy sold. “Independent retailers are facing ever-increasing operating costs so pro rata margin increases are critical whenever cover price rises occur if NFRN members are to remain viable,” said Reddish. “The NFRN is pleased that JPI Media is demonstrating that it wants to work positively with its retail partners and I would like to reciprocate by urging NFRN members to give iweekend their full support. “It is equally pleasing to hear that the publisher is investing in the quality of the newspaper’s editorial, with a promise that readers ‘will notice a stronger weekend feel to their newspaper with additional focus on relaxation and indulgence’. With that in mind, I would also echo its appeal to retailers to remember that iweekend should remain on sale during Sunday too.”

From left, Will Corrie (junior); Karen Dunlop-Wainwright, corporate fundraiser for Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke; and John Henderson.

RETAIL NEWS - SYMBOLS

CENTRA NI SECURES PRESTIGIOUS WIN AT RETAIL INDUSTRY AWARDS

onvenience retailer Centra was honoured in London last month at the 2019 Retail Industry Awards, taking home the title of Convenience Retailer of the Year while Lilley’s Centra Dublin Road in Enniskillen was named Food-to-go Retailer of the Year. “To be awarded Convenience Retailer of the Year is a great achievement for everyone associated with Centra and is testament to the hard work that has been put in over the years by our teams both at local and national level,” said Michael McCormack, managing director of Centra in Northern Ireland. “As consumer demand for high quality convenience increases, Centra

“I would also like to congratulate Una Lilley and her team at Centra Dublin Road, Enniskillen who competed against some of the best stores in the UK and brought home the Food-to-go Retailer of the Year award.” Bradley’s Centra in Maghera was highly commended in the Digital Engagement category for their digital enhancements both in store and at the fuel pumps while Centra Church Street in Banbridge was highly commended in the Forecourt Retailer of the Year category. SuperValu also received commendations with Kings Road in Belfast highly commended for National Lottery Retailer of the Year and Omagh for Post Office Retailer of the Year.

Nigel Maxwell, Centra sales director, picks up Convenience Retailer of the Year for Centra Northern Ireland.

is responding with refreshed, inviting, modern stores that offer the latest in convenience and this award underlines this.

SPAR FORTFIELD HOSTS GINSTER’S PENALTY SHOOTOUT WITH MICHAEL O’NEILL

Riley Deans of the Greenisland 2011 team is presented with a Northern Ireland football shirt from team manager, Michael O’Neill after winning a penalty shootout in association with Ginster’s, an official partner of the Irish FA at SPAR Fortfield’s Customer Celebration event.

wo young footballers from East Antrim have been hailed by Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill as having the potential to be top players. Riley Deans of the Greenisland 2011 team and George Alexander of the Whitehead Eagles Junior Academy 2012 team won a penalty shoot-out which took place at the SPAR Fortfield store in Carrickfergus under the professional eye of O’Neill. The occasion was part of a Customer Appreciation Event run by SPAR Fortfield for their shoppers, which included lots of Barista Bar Café sampling and tasting SPAR’s new enjoy local bakery range, as

well as ice cream treats from Dale Farm keeping everyone chilled. The penalty shootout was in association with Ginsters, an official partner of the Irish FA. SPAR Fortfield opened in December 2018 as a new store concept for owners Henderson Retail, part of the family-run Henderson Group, based in Mallusk. The store is a state-of-the-art food-togo destination, offering unique services from Henderson’s dailyDeli, including noodles and salad stations, as well as big brand favourites such as Burger King and Subway. It houses the only Barista Bar Café in Northern Ireland, which provides a sit-in area to enjoy the popular retail coffee brand alongside treats and traybakes.

ERNE LARDER WINS LISTING WITH HENDERSON GROUP

rne Larder Preserves in Northern Ireland has gained a listing for two innovative products with the Henderson Group. Based in Enniskillen, the small artisan enterprise is run by chef Declan O’Donoghue and will be supplying its original Irish Bacon Ketchup and Irish Bacon Jam to SPAR, EUROSPAR and VIVO stores throughout Northern Ireland. The Food NI member company’s two products will initially be available in the 26 stores owned by the group, while Erne Larder will also have the potential to win business with the group’s 240 franchised outlets. “This is a massive breakthrough for us

Declan O’Donoghue, founder of Erne Larder Preserves.

as we approach the third anniversary of my decision to set up the company and the launch of Irish Bacon Jam, our very first product,” said O’Donoghue. “It’s very positive and exciting for us and a tremendous endorsement of my artisan products. “We were thrilled to be asked to become a supplier in what is currently our biggest retail outlet. It’s a marvellous boost for our business.” Erne Larder secured the listing after meeting with the Henderson Group at this year’s Balmoral Show, when it exhibited in Food NI’s Taste the Greatness pavilion.

ADVERTORIAL

WORKING WITH INDEPENDENT RETAILERS FOR OVER 40 YEARS

ith multi award-winning stores such as The Milestone, Crawford’s, Dolan’s, The Fiveways and Joyce’s to name a few, Nisa is the proven partner of choice for many market-leading, independently-minded retailers in Ireland. For more than 40 years, we have worked with independent retailers to ensure we provide all the tools they need to compete effectively in the convenience retail sector. With Nisa, retailers can operate under a choice of symbol fascias; Nisa Local, Nisa Extra and dual branded whereby a retailer maintains their local identity whilst benefiting from the strength of the Nisa brand. Alternatively, retailers can trade under their own independent fascia. Nisa was acquired by the Co-op in May 2018 and, since then, work has been focused on ensuring our independent retailers can experience the benefits as quickly as possible through their strong relationship with Nisa as their primary supplier. With newfound business stability and improved financial strength, Nisa partners can trade their businesses in the independent way they have always enjoyed, backed by competitive prices, promotions and a deeper own-brand range which is so important in today’s market in order to drive a real point of difference. Nisa provides a complete retail support package to its retailers to ensure they remain competitive. This comprises a strong retail-focused team, covering retail development managers and regional retail managers, in addition to fresh food development managers, who encourage retailers to make the most of this important category, and store development managers who help to further develop stores. Also offered is an enhanced category management system providing personalised planograms, a staff-training facility and a comprehensive marketing package incorporating bespoke leaflets, point-of-sale material and a personalised Nisa FM providing retailers with a strong radio network for their store and national advertising. A quality EPoS solution, Epositive Evolution, is provided exclusively to Nisa 14

partners. With the ability to access promotions, stock lists and point of sale in a simple, touchscreen system, it is a complete business management tool. The updated Evolution Version 2.0 was rolled out to retailers during early 2019, with more intuitive software and new features which improve efficiency for retailers, and self-scan checkouts are also now being installed. All of this is in addition to the award-winning supply chain, excellent availability, two strong award-winning own-label ranges and over 13,000 SKUs. Nisa’s Evolution store format has seen great success and those retailers who converted in 2018 achieved, on average, a 12% uplift in sales. The Evolution format prides itself on offering a greater degree of flexibility to retailers, moving away from a one-size-fits-all model to a more modular development format. Nisa’s flexible model provides its retailers with an unbeatable breadth of range and an excellent availability rate. This is supported by Nisa’s awardwinning own-label range, Heritage which provides retailers with some 800 great

quality products at affordable prices. Nisa retailers also have access to more than 2,000 of Co-op’s high-quality own-brand products across all categories, which is more than 80% of the Co-op range. Nisa retailers can source local products and have them invoiced centrally, creating a simpler, time-efficient process. All orders are placed directly with individual suppliers, deliveries are made direct to store, but the invoicing and administration is managed centrally. This is all delivered by Nisa’s industryleading supply chain which retailers can trust with an impressive 99.9% of deliveries made on the day and 95.2% successfully made on time. With convenience stores at the heart of their communities, we know community involvement is key, and our retailers can support their local area through Nisa’s Making a Difference Locally charity. In 2018, it celebrated its 10th anniversary during which time over £8.7m has been donated to local charities and good causes. To find out more, complete the form on www.join-nisa.co.uk/contact-us or contact our development team on 0800 542 7490.

RETAIL NEWS - MULTIPLES

LOCAL FOOD PRODUCERS SECURE A KICK START FROM LIDL NI From left, Connor Morgan, Oh So Lean; Steph Fulton, Wee ChoCo; Declan O’Donoghue, Erne Larder; and David Grant, The Little Meat Company.

orthern Ireland’s fastest-growing retailer Lidl served up a taste of home last month when 11 new products from four local producers were selected to go on sale across all 200 Lidl stores throughout the island of Ireland (for a limited period while stocks lasted). From fiery chocolate to succulent pulled meats, the locally-made artisan products crafted in Northern Ireland were selected

as winners in this year’s Lidl Kick Start Supplier Development Programme. The Kick Start Programme is designed to help small- and medium-sized local food and drink producers grow their brand, build their supply network and reach new customer audiences. Earlier this year, Lidl called on local producers to enter the programme and pitch their product to be stocked across

SUPERVALU INTRODUCES 100% COMPOSTABLE REUSABLE SHOPPING BAGS S uperValu has introduced 100% compostable and reusable shopping bags across its stores from September 9. The announcement follows the introduction of fully compostable fruit and vegetable bags for customers in 2018. Both initiatives are just two steps SuperValu is taking as part of its sustainable packaging strategy to make 100% of its own-brand and fresh fruit and vegetable packaging recyclable, reusable or compostable by 2025. The SuperValu shopping bag is priced at 75p and made from a blend of renewable raw materials. “Our customers expect SuperValu to help them make more sustainable choices and we’re committed to doing just that,” said Michael McCormack, managing director of SuperValu in Northern Ireland. “Reducing our environmental impact on the planet is

all its stores. Producers right across the island of Ireland applied for the programme, with 11 new and exciting products from Northern Ireland passing the taste test and earning their place on the shelves last month. This year’s winning range included Erne Larder Marmalade with Whiskey from Fermanagh, Little Meat Co’s pulled meat range (chicken, turkey and pork), Oh So Lean ready meals (chicken curry, chilli chicken and spicy vegetable noodles), Oh So Lean smoked burgers (turkey and steak) and Wee ChoCo chocolate bars (honeycomb and chilli and lime) produced in Co Down. As well as the limited edition in-store promotion, Kick Start also provides the ambitious companies with free business development seminars delivered by a panel of Lidl and wider industry experts, covering key disciplines such as quality control, packaging, communications and brand building. Representing a major investment by Lidl into its local supplier network, the Kick Start programme is now open for applications for its 2020 scheme; visit www. lidl-ni.co.uk/kickstart for further information.

DUNNES CLOSES LARNE STORE WITH AROUND 50 JOB LOSSES

D From left, Jamie Graham, store manager at SuperValu Lisburn, and Deirdre Fegan, SuperValu Lisburn.

a core focus of our overall strategy to help build sustainable communities and we have already made significant steps forward in this area. “We are delighted to introduce 100% reusable compostable bags in-store and will continue to explore ways of reducing plastic in innovative ways, making sure we meet our pledge to make 100% of our own brand and fresh fruit and vegetable packaging recyclable, reusable or compostable by 2025.”

unnes has closed its Larne store, occupying what used to be the King’s Arms Hotel on its Main Street junction with Broadway, after over 30 years in the town centre. DUP East Antrim MP Sammy Wilson branded the news a “bad blow to the town in terms of employment, in terms of consumer choice and in terms of the footfall in the town centre”. “It’s one of the anchor stores in the town centre and it does take up a big square footage there,” he said. “I don’t know how many are employed there but I’m sure there’s a fair number either full-time or part-time.” Around 50 employees have lost their jobs, some of which have worked in the shop for three decades.

RETAIL PROFILE

LIDL HIGHLIGHTS ITS CONTRIBUTION TO THE LOCAL ECONOMY From left, JP Scally, managing director of Lidl Ireland & Northern Ireland; Neil McCullough, Oxford Economics; and Conor Boyle, Lidl Northern Ireland regional director.

idl has marked its 20th anniversary in Northern Ireland by highlighting its contribution to the local economy across its 38 stores and Nutts Corner distribution centre employing 880 members of staff. Annually, £179m is contributed to the local economy, £290m of local produce is purchased and £17m is paid out in salaries at a rate 30% higher than the NI retail average, according to the German discount retailer. Two-thirds of staff are aged 34 or under. Including its direct employees, Lidl supports 3,500 local jobs in total through its stores, local purchasing power and direct consumer spend, according to an Oxford Economics report, The Economic Contribution of Lidl in Northern Ireland, commissioned by Lidl. The £179m figure includes Lidl’s direct operations in NI (£48m), the entire NIbased supply chain (£108m) and Lidl and supply chain employees spending their income in the local economy (£24m). Since opening its first store in Cookstown in 1999, Lidl has become Northern Ireland’s fastest-growing grocery retailer (see p6), while direct employee numbers have doubled in under 10 years. It has also become a net exporter of Northern Ireland food and drink, sourcing local produce for its Great Britain (GB),

Republic of Ireland (RoI) and global stores. Its local suppliers range from artisans supplying limited ranges through its Kick Start programme such as Erne Larder, to Dale Farm which has become Lidl’s main supplier of cheddar cheese for retail in 22 international markets. The Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon area, Mid Ulster, Mid and East Antrim and Fermanagh benefited most from Lidl’s agri-food procurement spend, with £200m of goods destined for GB and £49m for RoI in 2018. Almost a third of Lidl’s NI store turnover was generated within the Belfast and the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon districts; the two largest council areas by population. “With 38 stores and over 300,000 weekly customers, our commitment to deliver high-quality, locally-produced products at market-leading prices has helped to drive our phenomenal growth for two decades and we’re proud of the deep local relationships with our suppliers and staff which we have established in this time,” said JP Scally, managing director of Lidl Ireland & Northern Ireland. To support its expansion and new store programme, Lidl Northern Ireland has invested around £8m annually since 2008, rising to £13m in 2018.

In recent years, the company has developed a series of award-winning local programmes to support staff development and employment opportunities, including The Princes Trust Get into Retail programme; a Bursary scheme in partnership with Ulster University (UU) and Queen’s University; and a Feed Your Mind degree programme in association with UU and Irish Times Training.

TESCO TASTE

TESCO SUPPLIERS SHOWCASE INNOVATION AT TASTE FESTIVAL POPULAR FOOD AND DRINK PRODUCTS, AS WELL AS INNOVATIVE NEW LINES, WERE SHOWCASED TO CONSUMERS BY 53 PRODUCERS ATTENDING THIS YEAR’S TESCO TASTE FESTIVAL, HELD IN CUSTOM HOUSE SQUARE OVER SEPTEMBER 20-22. MARKING THE 11TH YEAR OF THE FESTIVAL, VISITORS WERE OFFERED THE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET THE PRODUCERS AND TASTE THEIR PRODUCTS, AS WELL AS ENJOYING LIVE MUSIC, ENTERTAINMENT AND FOOD DEMONSTRATIONS. TESCO SALES UP 60% FOR FINNEBROGUE ARTISAN innebrogue Artisan had prominent presence at Tesco Taste in Custom House Square last month and proved popular with visitors. Naked Bacon has performed well for the retailer in Northern Ireland, with sales up 60% year on year. As a result, Finnebrogue is set to launch its revolutionary nitrite-free Naked Bacon brand nationwide into Tesco UK. The £4.6m listing comes after a successful two years in Tesco Northern Ireland which put the brand in good stead for a national contract. Naked Smoked Back Bacon and Naked Unsmoked Back Bacon entered 580 stores on September 23.

Rachel McFarlane, Bronagh McErlean and Kerri Smith (Finnebrogue Artisan).

Arminte Imbrasiene, Clare Forster, Alex Brennan and Reuben McFeevers (Mash Direct).

Deirdre Burns (Forest Feast).

TESCO TASTE Abbie Grills (Schweppes).

Matthew McIvor and Sean McClinton (Golden Popcorn).

Keith Fulton, David Cooper, Candida Corscadden and Billy Thompson (Hovis).

Leah Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill and JP Lyttle (Genesis).

TESCO TASTE Katie McKeown and Grace Dornan (Hull’s).

Justin Forsythe and Karl McCrum (Neill’s Flour/Allied Mills).

Rosalind Saunderson and Stuart Best (White’s Oats).

Joanne Beattie and Peter Lavery (Robert Roberts).

Jill Uprichard, Lauren Uprichard, Lynore Wolsey and Joanne Mitchell (Tayto).

Martina Loughran, Jackie McConnell and Liz Brown (Skea Eggs).

Tesco Packaged Foods Buyer Jonathan McWhinney with Eileen Hall (Cavanagh Free Range Eggs).

Felicity McNeice and Evelyn McBurney (Morton’s Flour).

ADVERTORIAL

SALES, GROWTH & INVESTMENT DRIVES HENDERSON RETAILERS TO DOMINATE PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS

enderson retailers from across Northern Ireland have racked up over 20 awards in just three nights at some of the most prestigious national retail awards ceremonies across the UK and Ireland. At the Retail Industry Awards, Forecourt Trader Awards and Ireland’s Forecourt & Convenience Retailer Awards last month, SPAR NI stores and EUROSPAR NI supermarkets brought home 24 gongs for excellence in fresh produce, independent, community and company-operated retailing, as well as nods towards their food-to-go offering. Fresh Food sales have grown 10% in the past year, and the Group has posted a turnover of £853m for 2018. 19 new stores and supermarkets opened their doors in 2018/19 to provide everyday essentials for their local communities creating around 500 local jobs, and the Group recently announced a £26m investment in a further 20 stores in the next 12 months. “Our senior team commit millions of pounds in re-investment back into the business each year, which contributes to our sustained growth and earns us the recognition of our peers,” said Paddy Doody, sales & marketing director. “As a local business, Henderson Group stands out nationally and, being part of the SPAR International family, enables our retailers to learn from each other around the world, giving us a huge competitive edge here.” At the Retail Industry Awards in London, often regarded as a benchmark of excellence in the retail industry, SPAR and EUROSPAR store managers dominated in the Store Manager of the Year category, taking away the winner for Independent (Thomas Magennis, Mulkerns’ EUROSPAR, Newry) and Multiple (Joanne Walker, EUROSPAR Donegall Road, Belfast) while Jennifer Donaghy (SPAR Holywood Road, Belfast) brought home the highly commended. Store Team of the Year was taken home by the VIVO Essential’s store, Mountjoy Filling Station in Omagh. Meanwhile, at the Forecourt Trader Awards also in London, Samuel McCann (EUROSPAR Carrick Milestone, Carrickfergus) was awarded the Best

Michael Surginer is pictured with the category sponsor and host of the Retail Industry Awards.

“WE HAVE MANY OF THE BEST RETAIL MANAGERS AND MOST HIGHLY COMMITTED STORE TEAMS TRADING FROM WELL INVESTED, CONTEMPORARY RETAIL OUTLETS.” Mark McCammond, retail director at the Henderson Group

Site Manager Accolade, and two of Henderson Retail’s newest stores and supermarkets, SPAR Fortfield and EUROSPAR Wallace Village won regional

Henderson Retail took home gongs for Multiple Fresh Produce Retailer of the Year and Multiple Community Retailer of the Year at the Retail Industry Awards last month. Michael Surginer, Henderson Retail operations area manager, is pictured at the ceremony in London.

Forecourt of the Year titles. And at Ireland’s Forecourt & Convenience Retail Awards in Dublin, Mulkerns’ EUROSPAR won Best Use of Category Management, Creighton’s of Balmoral won Forecourt & Convenience Store of the Year and Henderson Retail won Best Training Initiative. Mark McCammond, retail director at the Henderson Group, said: “We have many of the best retail managers and most highly-committed store teams trading from well invested, contemporary retail outlets. They share our vision for success, which is why we have seen an uplift in retailers joining Hendersons to boost their sales and margins and put their name behind a brand they can be proud of.” Henderson’s retailers will also benefit from the state-of-the-art £15m warehouse facility currently being built, which will future proof the business for storage for the next 20 years. Paddy concluded: “Efficiency in storage and logistics helps us to keep prices lower in our stores, which make for happier retailers and shoppers. We’re very proud of our achievements over the past year, and the recent award wins are the icing on the cake.” 21

ADVERTORIAL

PRL ARE GOING FOR GOLD AT THIS YEAR’S FMBE AWARDS

RL are thrilled to announce that we have been nominated eight times across a total of six categories in this year’s Field Marketing and Brand Experience Awards. Running over the last 12 years, these awards have become the biggest event in the industry calendar, rewarding best-in-class leaders in field, retail and live experiential marketing with prestigious awards. This year’s event will be held in the glamorous Syon Park in London on Thursday, September 26. PRL’s nominations are spread across two sectors of the business, PRL In-Market Solutions and Custodian. PRL In-Market Solutions is one of Ireland’s leading field marketing companies, specialising within the FMCG Industry across Ireland. We have been responsible for running some of the biggest outsourcing operations in the country, having long–term contracts with blue-chip companies such as Pladis, KP Snacks, P&G, Hovis and Britvic. Our service offering caters for part-time, fulltime, fully managed and client managed operations across sales, merchandising, promotions, auditing and mystery shopping. The Custodian department is a multiaward winning company specialising in print management, design, digital and logistical services. With over 26 years of experience in the print management industry, Custodian today offers its clients an end-to-end service from design to distribution that encompasses print management, digital publishing, web design and online marketing. We can deliver both consistency and cost savings to the many international brands we work with. PRL In-Market Solutions’ Northern Ireland office is based in Belfast and has managed successful outsourced operations for some of the biggest players in the FMCG market for over 20 years. We’re proud to say that three of this year’s Field Marketing Award nominations were based in Northern Ireland, including in two of the most prestigious categories. Our KP Sales Team was nominated for two categories, Team of the Year and Most Effective Small Scale Local Campaign. Team of the Year is a hugely competitive category in which we’ll be competing against some of the industry’s biggest brands including 22

Syon Park in London.

Unilever, Mondelez and Weetabix. The KP team has gone from strength, to strength delivering consistent results in distribution, share of space, NPD and brand visibility. KP’s NI Business Account Manager Ricky Watts said of the team: “PRL have been our outsourced partner of choice for nearly 10 years, and have consistently delivered over this time. Through proactive development plans, some reps have moved on to the next step in their career, but this has always been a seamless transition with PRL. Every one of our teams over the years has delivered success, but none more so than the current. “Neil (Larmour) and Jamie (Tomaselli) hit the ground running with us and haven’t looked back, changing our perception of the art of the possible within the Northern Ireland convenience market. While Sam (Gordon) is new to the team, his determination to succeed was apparent from day one, and his territory has already surpassed where it was before he took over. We are currently in our fourth consecutive year of growth in the NI convenience market, and this would not have been possible without the results our three FDRs consistently drive. I’m proud to hold their work up as an example of ‘What Looks Good’ when presenting to the UK, and could not think of a team more deserving for this award.” The KP Team was also nominated for the launch of Muchos in the category, Most Effective Small Scale Local Campaign. This was a key NPD for KP Snacks throughout the year, and the team

grasped it with the same determination as they do with every drive. Despite lofty KPIs being put in place, the team surpassed all expectations, achieving 140% of strike rate target and 150% of volume target. Considering the competitive nature of the crisps and snacks category, the figures achieved were phenomenal, and a testament to the strength of the team. Despite only being launched in April, Muchos Nacho Cheese is already the 15th best-selling NI sharebag. Outside of KP Snacks, but keeping in Northern Ireland, we were delighted to see our GSK Field Development Rep Neil Gill getting recognition by being nominated for the hugely prestigious Brand Ambassador or the Year award.

“PRL HAVE BEEN OUR OUTSOURCED PARTNER OF CHOICE FOR NEARLY 10 YEARS, AND HAVE CONSISTENTLY DELIVERED OVER THIS TIME. THROUGH PROACTIVE DEVELOPMENT PLANS, SOME REPS HAVE MOVED ON TO THE NEXT STEP IN THEIR CAREER, BUT THIS HAS ALWAYS BEEN A SEAMLESS TRANSITION WITH PRL.” Ricky Watts, NI business account manager, KP

When you consider the scale of applicants, to be shortlisted for this role is in itself a huge achievement, but we have high hopes Neil could go even further on the back of continuous growth and success since he joined the team in July 2017. Not only has Neil grown indirect distribution by over 60%, but he has exceeded direct sales value targets by 140%, driving key brands such as Sensodyne, Aquafresh, Beechams and Panadol. When asked about Neil, Russell Johnston, PRL general manager in NI, said: “We have a large number of reps on the road on an ongoing basis, and Neil has proven himself to be a mentor and role model to them all. I truly believe him to be invaluable to our FMCG sales business in NI.” To be able

ADVERTORIAL to share best practice from Neil across of the final five listed against the Most other sales teams in NI, and vice versa, Effective Stand or Display category. These is what makes PRL one of Ireland’s most nominations were for Absolut Grapefruit successful field marketing companies. and Uncle Ben’s. Absolut Vodka is one GSK Northern Ireland Business Manager of the world’s best-selling premium Stuart Hutchison also spoke highly of vodka brands. The brand most recently Neil, saying: “It was a difficult decision launched Absolut Grapefruit in to their to make when it came to putting flavours range. We were tasked a sales representative into the with developing designs for their Northern Ireland market in-store PoS which led to an for GSK. We hadn’t had extremely successful launch Pladis McVities. a presence for a long at retail. The design needed time, we weren’t sure to be striking enough to stop if the opportunity that shoppers in their tracks and we thought was there, encourage them to purchase would materialise? Would a bottle of Absolut Grapefruit the investment turn out to but also to remind them of the be good or bad? Would the stores other flavours within the Absolut Flavours decide to stock GSK products again, or range. increase their range and support in-store The unit was designed to reflect the activation after such a long time away? bright colour of a grapefruit. To ensure I now know the answer. It’s a clear yes! it stood out amid the noise at retail, the The reason? Neil Gill.” unit was designed with a large bright Our Dublin office has also been grapefruit on the header. The theme was shortlisted for some excellent activities. carried through with the grapefruit also The Pladis team is down to the final appearing on each side of the FSDU. The seven of the Most Emotive Experiential full kicker area carried the important zero Experience category. We entered sugar message. The overall pink colour of McVitie’s into this category with their the unit was striking enough to engage #getbacktoreal campaign. The challenge shoppers whilst tapping into the global behind this whole campaign was to ‘Millennials Pink’ trend. get the consumer to take some time to Uncle Ben’s is the leader in the Irish rice put their hectic lives on pause, take a market. Having been available in Ireland moment, and get back to real life. The since 1983, Uncle Ben’s are focusing on campaign strategy was to re-establish the their continued development within the connection between McVitie’s and the oriental category and Chinese New Year consumer as an everyday brand. A brand is a major focus for the brand. that aims and strives to be a part of the This campaign was a high-level small act of sharing a biscuit, that in turn tactical retail activation taking place can have such a big impact in bringing in key grocery multiples nationwide us closer together and getting us with its main objectives being back to reality. The campaign to increase recruitment to the exceeded expectations, and brand and drive awareness. we’re hopeful of a great The requirement for this result on the night. campaign was to achieve Also within the RoI high ranking features in all In-Market Solutions team, Patrick Dunne, a field Uncle Ben’s. development rep for Lucozade Ribena Suntory, was shortlisted for the Brand Ambassador of the Year Award. The fact that we have two people in the final six for this exemplifies PRL’s focus on developing our staff members. We’re confident to say the training our reps receive is truly best in class. After working his way up to assistant manager within a retail environment, Patrick joined PRL’s LRS team in May 2017, working primarily around Co Offally. He has gone from strength to strength in this time and continues to consistently deliver results. Our final two shortlists were from Absolut Grapefruit our Custodian team, who make up two

stores both at store entrance and instore. Eye-catching Digi Ad Towers caught the attention of the customers on store approach, with Trolley Pops to support. The FSDUs were designed to create maximum visual impact instore, based on the Chinese New Year theme. Collectively, the above submissions highlight not just the quality, but also the scope of work that PRL are able to provide to our clients. FMBE have recognised this in previous years, leading to PRL being awarded silver award in Field Marketing Agency of the Year in 2018. To put this into context, PRL were named the second best Field Marketing Agency in the UK, despite not having a base outside the island of Ireland at this time. This showed further progress from being awarded the bronze award in this category in 2016. In 2019, we’ve been shortlisted for this award yet again, and are in an even stronger position having established ourselves in England, Scotland and Wales. Here’s hoping we’re soon in a position to call ourselves number one.

PRL’S PREVIOUS SUCCESS AT THE FMBE AWARDS: 2018 Silver Award Agency of the Year 2018 Gold Award Product Launch of the Year 2018 Gold Award for Most Effective Display 2018 Silver Award for Product Launch of the Year 2018 Bronze Award for Most Effective Display 2017 Silver Award for Most Effective Display 2016 Silver Award for Most Effective Tactical Campaign 2016 Silver Award for Most Effective Product Launch 2016 Bronze Award for Agency of the Year 2015 Gold Award for Most Effective Instore Marketing 2015 Silver Award for Outsourced Sales Performance of the Year 23

FOOD & DRINK NEWS

BREXIT COULD PRESENT OPPORTUNITY FOR GREATER LOCAL SOURCING BY MICHELE SHIRLOW, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, FOOD NI

t’s hard to know what to write about Brexit against the confusing background of all the shenanigans in the House of Commons in London. I really don’t know what the situation will be when this magazine hits the shelves. And I am sure I am not alone in this. Will we be leaving the EU at the end of the month without a trade deal? It’s a bit risky, perhaps, to be attempting to comment on Brexit in a monthly publication. However, I came across an interesting opinion survey recently which indicated that people in the UK had become resigned to such a potentially disastrous exit, certainly for Northern Ireland. According to research from consumer insight group HIM, two-thirds of shoppers now expect food shortages as a result of Brexit. Interestingly, perhaps very significantly, the report suggested a developing opportunity for supermarkets to respond to growing interest in locallysourced foods from a Brexit crash out. According to the online survey of 1,000 consumers conducted by HIM, a consumer insight agency owned by FoodNavigator publisher William Reed, 61% now expect Brexit to result in food shortages.

shortlist has been announced for the 2019 Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards, with winners set to be announced on October 24 at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road, Dublin. Shortlisted products made it through the rigour of a month-long judging process at the Limerick Institute of Technology in July. This was conducted by 150 independent judges, comprising experts from the food and drink industry in Ireland and the UK. Judges spanned chefs and nutritionists to packaging experts and food technologists. They debated and evaluated over 1,000 products from small producers, wholesalers, foodservice and retailers from all over Ireland. To view the full shortlist, visit: https:// irish.qualityfoodawards.com/irishqualityfoodawards2019/en/page/shortlist. 24

This figure has spiked sharply compared with attitudes ahead of the original Brexit deadline of March 29, when HIM found only 39% of consumers expected food shortages. The latest survey found that UK consumers are most concerned over the ongoing availability of fruit and veg, with 41% fearing that popular products from abroad could become scarce. And 14% of shoppers revealed they have already begun stockpiling. Moreover, 30% of consumers reported they plan to stockpile products ahead of the October 31 deadline, with tinned foods, frozen foods and over-the-counter medication the most popular categories. This is an immensely worrying situation given our dependence on imported vegetables. Perhaps, this situation will encourage more farmers here to diversify into vegetables that can be grown here and more supermarkets will encourage them to do so by buying more from them at a sustainable rate. It’s widely accepted that a no-deal Brexit could have a devastating impact on local food and drink producers. I know that buying teams in most local supermarkets and symbol groups are keen to source more from local suppliers,

and Food NI is keen to promote and assist the process because of the huge benefits it could provide for local agri-food companies. Local products are associated with a number of positives for consumers, including freshness and sustainability. And a growing number of shoppers are now demonstrating concern over the environment in areas such as packaging. We have already seen a number of our producers responding to this by introducing more easily compostable packaging. We need to see more of this. As well as highlighting environmental concerns, a no-deal Brexit could result in price rises, especially involving food from abroad. And there may also be quality issues because the tight regulations governing production here are unlikely to apply to foods imported from abroad. It is also likely to be some considerable time before the promised trade deals after Brexit materialise. This looming situation strengthens the need to ensure our companies are able to compete successfully in Northern Ireland and in Great Britain; likely to remain our most important marketplace well into an uncertain future.

IRISH QUALITY FOOD AND DRINK AWARDS UNVEILS SHORTLIST

Pictured are the judges, from left, back row: Vivek Tohani, Belfast Food Man; Trevis Gleason, Sapphire Solutions Consulting; James Burke, James Burke Associates; Beckie Dart, Irish Quality Food Awards; Drew McIvor, Invest NI; Jane Milton; Brigitta Curtin, Burren Smokehouse; and front row: Lisa McMahon and Liz Creegan, Irish Quality Food Awards; and Elke O’Mahoney, Bia Sásta.

FOOD TO GO

FOOD TO GO PRESENTS MAJOR OPPORTUNITY TO DRIVE SALES

Food to go on offer at The Gem on the Andersonstown Road in Belfast.

n increasingly important part of the retail grocery offer, the foodto-go sector has moved beyond pre-packed sandwiches and sausage rolls to encompass a wide selection of sandwiches, rolls, wraps, paninis and toasties; burrito, pizza and salad bars; healthier options such as sushi and protein pots; high quality, diverse hot dishes; and drinks from smoothies to barista coffee. “As we move towards less defined eating patterns and meal times, the food-to-go market presents retailers with a major opportunity to drive sales,” says Mike Owen, category director, Costcutter Supermarkets Group. “Set to be worth £21.2bn in 2019 and with 13%* of convenience shoppers driven by food and drink-to-go missions, the category is pivotal for our retailers. “With that in mind, we’ve revised and refreshed our food-to-go offer to ensure the range satisfies shoppers’ needs from breakfast to lunch and dinner. To help retailers boost sales further, we’ve also introduced a new product brochure, which includes merchandising guides, new food concepts, suppliers and ranges as well as retailer case studies. “Key food-to-go categories, such as sandwiches and wraps, are essential to bringing in the lunchtime crowd. Our range of Co-op own-brand products includes year-round classics such as Deep Fill Egg & Bacon and on trend flavour profiles such as Chimichurri Flatbread Pockets. In fact, our bestselling food-to26

go item is the Co-op own-brand Deep Fill Chicken and Bacon sandwich, closely followed by the Deep Fill Chicken Salad sandwich. “Healthy snacks are also one of the big growth areas this year; research by HIM** has shown that the average shopper would be willing to spend £1.44 on a single snack, whereas a healthy snacking shopper would be willing to spend £1.84. “To tap into this opportunity, our Coop own-brand range includes products such as high-protein Satay Chicken Snack

Packs with Chilli, Egg & Spinach Pots and Falafel & Houmous Snack Packs. One of the biggest growths in this category has been towards pre-prepared fruit and salads, where demand has more than doubled in the past two years. “There is also growing demand for plant-based meals, clean eating and gluten-free foods, so retailers should be including meat-free products, high protein and free-from products as part of their food-to-go offering. And, with

the war on waste continuing to gather momentum, we’re encouraging retailers to offer refillable water bottles and filling stations. “To support the food-to-go category, particularly around breakfast, it’s crucial that you get your coffee offering just right. From the first commuters at 6am, through to mid-morning post-school run pick-me-ups, shoppers are looking for combination deals and our new food-to-go brochure offers advice on mini meal deals for different times of the day solutions. “One retailer who has invested in his food-to-go offering and is reaping the rewards is The Gem, located on Andersontown Road in Belfast. The store had operated from a small 500-square-foot unit for many years,

“AS WE MOVE TOWARDS LESS DEFINED EATING PATTERNS AND MEAL TIMES, THE FOODTO-GO MARKET PRESENTS RETAILERS WITH A MAJOR OPPORTUNITY TO DRIVE SALES.” Mike Owen, category director, Costcutter Supermarkets Group.

but when the opportunity to acquire the adjacent unit presented itself, store owner Larry Drum snapped it up, knocked down walls, and invested £165,000 to transform it into one 1,700-square-foot Costcutter store. “As well as increasing his chilled and convenience categories, the extension allowed Larry to significantly improve his foodservice offer, including hot and cold food to go. He introduced a range of hot and cold food-to-go options, including Seattle’s Best Coffee, fresh and locally-supplied sandwiches and cakes, hot pastries, and a range of convenience snacks. The food-togo category now accounts for 12.5% of total sales, bringing in £2,750 per week; a +60% year-on-year increase.” * MCA & HIM Food To Go Market Report 2019 **HIM FUTURE OF CONVENIENCE REPORT 2019

FOOD TO GO

HENDERSON’S TAKES BIG BITE OUT OF FOOD TO GO MARKET WITH FRESH SANDWICH RANGE

enderson Wholesale’s SPAR, EUROSPAR and VIVO retailers are taking an even bigger bite out of the lunch on-the-go market, reporting a 35% rise in sales in 2019. The company’s range of packaged sandwiches and salads, appearing under the dailyDeli brand, has gone from strength to strength in recent years thanks to consistent new product development with their fresh sandwich partners, Around Noon. There can be up to five seasonal lines at any one time within the dailyDeli sandwiches and salads range, showcasing ontrend flavours and local and seasonal ingredients. Retailers are sure to experience an uplift as the festive season approaches thanks to the launch of three new seasonal sandwiches and wraps, which will be on sale from November 4. They consist of a pulled ham and roast parsnip wrap, roasted sweet potato and

cranberry sandwich, and the classic Christmas Sandwich, all made fresh locally and delivered to stores every day. 10p from the sale of each festive sandwich is also donated to SPAR and EUROSPAR’s charity partners, Marie Curie and Cancer Fund for Children. The future of food on the go at Henderson’s will see the launch of a new snacking range in stores around Spring 2020 from healthy breakfast options to mid-afternoon treats, which will complement the sandwiches and salads. Julia Galbraith, brand development and

marketing manager at Henderson Group, says it is a direct response to consumer demand: “We spoke to over 1,000 foodto-go consumers in Northern Ireland who told us that snacking is their second biggest food-to-go occasion. They’re looking for both healthy and indulgent options to fill a gap, should they miss breakfast or need a pick me up during the afternoon. “We have developed the range with Around Noon, so they directly complement our lunch on-the-go products and will help our retailers experience a further uplift in sales in this growing category.”

BIG NIGHT IN

KP SNACKS PUTS HULA HOOPS FLAVARINGS BACK ON SCREENS K P Snacks has announced it will be investing a further £1m in the promotion of Hula Hoops Flavarings this autumn. Capitalising on the success of the Bigger, Bolder, More Irresistible TV advertising campaign earlier in the year, the new campaign carries the strapline Massive Rings, Mahooosive Flavour to highlight the brands bold and enticing flavours. Striking out-of-home advertisements

will run on bus stops, print billboards and digital billboards until November 3 with playful digital TV advertising featuring on ITV Hub, C4 On Demand and Sky Media to October 20. The campaign aims to continue to drive awareness and purchase of Hula Hoops Flavarings, helping embed the product, which is now in its second year, into the sharing category. With 64% of cinema goers watching more films at home now than they used

to two years ago and when, watching a film at home, 48% eat crisps, snacks or nuts, Hula Hoops Flavarings taps into this demographic of consumers who want a flavourful snack that the whole family can enjoy. “Hula Hoops are eaten by 1.9 million consumers every week, making them one of the most popular snacks on the market,” said Kevin McNair, marketing director. “This campaign will heighten the awareness of Hula Hoop Flavarings and drive category growth within the sharing sector.”

SPICE UP THE BIG NIGHT IN

t’s time to fire up your weekend taste buds with an amazingly delicious Mash Direct combo. Serve their new vibrant Salt and Chilli Wedges with a trio of chicken tenders, juicy corn on the cob and a fresh side salad. Available to buy now, their Salt and Chilli Wedges will spice up any eating occasion with fiery and salty flavours. Dig in to this delicious, hassle-free, savoury sharing dish, perfect for a Big Night In this October.

ADVERTORIAL

CAT CLUB CELEBRATES 20TH BIRTHDAY! on-pack promotional offer across their 6-pack range throughout the coming months. Simply collect three tokens from promotional packs to claim a free Cat Club Cat Collar. 20 birthday hampers are also up for grabs as part of Cat Club’s celebrations; visit www.catclub20.com for further information. Cat Club continues to hold its own in a challenging and competitive cat food market and is proud to be the number

ackle Petfoods, the makers of Brandy and Naturo dog food, are excited to celebrate 20 years of their popular cat food brand, Cat Club. The success of Cat Club over the past 20 years is testament to yet another quality product from a local, family-owned company whose philosophy is to put pets first. Cat Club are running an exciting

“CAT CLUB ARE RUNNING AN EXCITING ON-PACK PROMOTIONAL OFFER ACROSS THEIR 6-PACK RANGE THROUGHOUT THE COMING MONTHS. SIMPLY COLLECT 3 TOKENS FROM PROMOTIONAL PACKS TO CLAIM A FREE CAT CLUB CAT COLLAR.”

one Irish-made cat food brand. Cat Club is available in a Chunks in Gravy six-pack along with Chunks in Jelly 6 and 12 packs, ideal for consumers who prefer to purchase in bulk. Made with the finest quality Irish Meat, Cat Club is fully traceable from farm to can. Cat owners see their cat as not just a pet, but as an important member of the family and they want to feed them only the best. However, our feline friends can be fussy creatures and cat lovers know that palatability and quality is vital. Value for money is also important for many pet owners In Ireland. Cat Club’s natural, meaty chunks in appetising Jelly or Gravy have all the nourishment and essential vitamins and minerals to ensure all-round good health and lively energy, so consumers know they are feeding their cats a tasty, nutritious meal they’ll love.

‘Cats love their Cat Club’

PROFILE

GRANGE FARM: A FAMILY BUSINESS WITH FAMILY VALUES STARTING OUT AS A PRODUCER OF EGGS FOR LOCAL SHOPS, GRANGE FARM HAS EXPANDED ITS PORTFOLIO OVER THE YEARS TO SUPPLY MEAT, POULTRY, SEAFOOD, PREPARED POTATOES, AND FRUIT & VEGETABLES ACROSS THE WHOLE OF IRELAND

GRANGE FARM SUPPLIERS OF: EGGS POTATOES – fresh peeled cut chips, and potatoes delivered daily (except Sunday) to the catering and retail trade VEGETABLES & FRUIT CHERRY VALLEY DUCK CHICKEN – whole & portions TURKEY – whole & portions – (including locally sourced) PORK – various cuts – all locally sourced BEEF – variety of fresh and frozen cuts – all locally sourced SEAFOOD – quality Indian prawns & shrimp in a range of sizes ROSIE & JIM – fresh and frozen glutenfree, ready-to-cook products Website: www.grangefarm.com Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ grangefarmfactoryshop Address: 70 Drumgrannon Road, Moy, Dungannon, Co Tyrone, BT71 7DY Contact Tel: 028 87784550 or Email: info@grangefarm.com

orward-thinking, family-based Grange Farm provides a personal touch, a flexible delivery service and, where possible, locally-sourced produce. The Moy-based egg, poultry, meat, seafood, and fruit and vegetable supplier has been in business for more than 30 years, expanding in ways that allow the business to grow while staying true to its family values. Originally created as Grange Farm Eggs, the business expanded into other categories and rebranded as Grange Farm in 2011. While foodservice represents a major sector of the business, retail is a significant and growing market with a focus on butcher shops, bakeries and delicatessens. 30

A FAMILY EFFORT Tommy and Rosemary Troughton set up Grange Farm in 1987 to market their own eggs. The company was originally based in Portadown’s Diamond Grange, and this inspired their name. It was a family affair from the beginning - both parents and all five children were actively involved in the egg business. In the early days, the two grandmothers graded eggs, and Rosemary’s retired father helped by balancing the books and making deliveries. Nowadays, Tommy and Rosemary remain active partners, and three of their five children- Christine, Richard and Elizabeth – have gone off to

An early example of sponsorship of events at Moy Riding Club 1989.

PROFILE pursue their separate careers. Two sons, George and TG (Thomas George, Jnr) are current directors alongside their father, Tommy. Together the Troughton family has shepherded an expansion from a one-van egg business to include chips, potatoes, meat, fruit and vegetables. Today, 12 branded vans and two lorries deliver produce daily (except Sunday) to hotels, restaurants and caterers throughout Ireland. The family tradition From left, Simon Davey, Tommy Troughton, Rosemary Troughton, Joanne Halliday, John Reynolds, TG Troughton, George Troughton and Craig Glendinning.

continues into a third generation with George’s son Tom working in the office on Saturday mornings, and TG’s daughter Pearl helping on the farm. George has been part of Grange Farm his whole life and is a major force in Grange Farm sales expanding beyond local shops to supplying client needs in the catering and retail trade across Ireland. As a young 17 year old, George started providing chicken products to many Chinese restaurants around Armagh and Tyrone and he became affectionately known as ‘chicken boy’ - a name proudly included on Grange Farm vans. He recalls: “We were always farmers, but we realised we needed to diversify - first by producing and selling our eggs, then poultry production and then, as inquiries started to come through for other products beyond eggs, expanding to serve those needs.” George, who studied agriculture at CAFRE’s Greenmount campus, along with fellow directors, ensures that Grange Farm grows and adapts in response to the needs of the communities it serves, and that they serve their customers well. As Grange Farm expanded and the business needed him, TG, who had been working in London, returned to Moy to actively support George, Rosemary and Tommy and to manage and develop the family business. Aberdeen Angus suckler herd.

A WORKING FARM Grange Farm is located at the Troughton’s working farm, where they also raise cattle and chickens. TG and Tommy have been growing their Aberdeen Angus suckler herd with a view to supplying quality farm-to-fork red meat to their customers. This effort complements the wide range of beef, pork and poultry products already for sale in the Grange Farm factory shop, which is open to the general public. (https://www.facebook. com/grangefarmfactoryshop). Following the acquisition of Drumgold Quality Foods in November 2018, on site

are two separate EEC-approved buildings, one housing a meat processing and packing area, and the other processing and packing vegetables. Local sourcing is a focus for Grange Farm, with eggs, beef and pork - and where possible, fruit and vegetables of local origin. Local turkey is also offered. Grange Farm is the foremost business in Ireland approved to process Cherry Valley duck and has secured a number of high-end clients for this lean, high quality product. It is also one of the few suppliers Butchery facility.

of the popular fresh Rosie & Jim range of gluten-free, ready-to-cook products. While motivated to “move with the times”, it is important to the Troughton family that their growth from a basic cattle farm to the growing enterprise that Grange Farm is today, maintains their values of work ethic and customer care. Over 30 staff are appreciated and respected as part of the Grange Farm family, and relationships with customers and suppliers are deeply valued. They have also been pleased to give back to the local community by supporting local causes and charities across the province. The growth and diversification of Grange Farm is grounded in bringing a personal touch. Indeed, Grange Farm still delivers to customers that George had when he first went out in the van 14 years ago, and to customers that Tommy delivered to 30 years ago. “This is a family business, putting local pounds in local pockets. When people give us their business, we really appreciate this. We have been blessed as a family, in business and with our staff. For these, we are thankful.” 31

AGRI-FOOD NEWS

NBA CALLS FOR REDEFINITION OF AGE WHEN ‘BEEF IS BEEF’

ational Beef Association (NBA) is calling for updated regulatory definitions to reflect improvements in production systems and genetics, in a move it claims will raise the profitability of the UK beef sector by millions of pounds while also delivering environmental benefits. Often accused of not competing well with the efficiency of the poultry and pork industries, with genetics blamed, NBA highlights an outdated age definition that sets the beef industry at a significant disadvantage. “Both poultry and pork production systems are able to finish stock earlier, and yet still be classified as pork or chicken,” said Chris Mallon, NBA chief executive. “Beef is not in this situation,

CONFIRMATION OF ADVANCE PAYMENTS WELCOMED

lster Farmers’ Union says farmers welcome the news that the rate of advanced CAP payments for 2019 will be set at 70%. “The advanced payments will be made in October, at a time when on-farm input costs traditionally begin to rise, and many farm businesses face cash flow pressures,” said Ivor Ferguson, president, UFU. “Last year, DAERA issued advance payments to 97% of claimants and we expect this to be repeated in 2019. “Also, with the UK set to leave the EU on 31st October, with or without a deal, the advanced payment will be timely and the cash injection will help farm businesses navigate what is likely to be a very disruptive period.”

as bovine are classified as veal, rather than beef, up to 12 months of age.” “Improved production systems now mean that cattle are often finished well before this 12-month mark, but must be held, and often subsequently go out of spec. The NBA is campaigning, on behalf of many breed society members, to reduce the age where beef is classified as beef; to reflect these advancements, we wish to see it classified as beef from eight months of age. “The regulation for the organisation of the market in beef and veal was introduced back in 1968 by the EC, introducing a distinction between adult bovine and calves. This was not for consumer information, but to allow different rules of intervention, as calves

and adult cattle received different levels of payment. “What this means is that beef production is held back by definitions that are out of date, and were not designed for production, but for subsidy payments which no longer exist. “It would improve farm profits thanks to reduced feed, bedding and labour costs associated with each animal. It would also increase the turnover of cattle on beef units, helping farmers increase production and potentially add significant sums to their bottom lines. “An additional advantage of younger production systems will be reduced greenhouse gas emissions per animal.”

UFU STRESSES CONCERNS OVER CURRENT BEEF AND SHEEP MARKET

lster Farmers’ Union has written to Northern Ireland Secretary of State Julian Smith, DAERA Permanent Secretary Denis McMahon and leading NI politicians, to stress the urgent need for improved farm gate prices. “Beef and sheep farmers are completely disillusioned with the ongoing situation in the marketplace,” said Sam Chesney, UFU beef and lamb chairman. “The farm gate price for beef produced in NI has continuously decreased since Autumn 2018 while lamb has been taking a serious downward turn since spring 2019. “The decline in prices has been aggravated by the prospect of the UK leaving the EU and has created a completely unsustainable situation for NI farmers. How can they be expected to produce quality food when input costs are rising constantly and live off such belittling income? This is a matter of urgency; the future of Northern Ireland’s family farm structure is on the line and Government needs to address the issue before it’s too late.” UFU has also expressed its concern over a continuous decline in suckler cow numbers and significant drop in suckler calf registrations.

FARMERS URGED TO ATTEND RESILIENT FARMER TOUR

ivestock and Meat Commission for Northern Ireland (LMC) is urging farmers and their families to attend the Shift Happens! - An Audience with the Resilient Farmer this month. The initiative, organised locally by Rural Support, will hear from New Zealand farmer Doug Avery who has overcome many adversities including battling with his mental health to become one of the country’s most successful farmers. The Tour is coming to the Glenavon Hotel, Cookstown on Monday, October 7; the Mourne County Hotel, Newry on Tuesday, October 8; the Killyhevlin Hotel, Enniskillen on Wednesday, October 9; and the Tullyglass Hotel, Ballymena on Thursday, October 10. Tickets be purchased at www.resilientfarmertour.co.uk.

AGRI-FOOD NEWS

UFU INTRODUCES NEW CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP

From left, Derek Lough, membership director, UFU; Sam Campbell, chief executive, AI Services; Brian Kennedy, company vet, AI Services; Ivor Ferguson, president, UFU; and David Dunlop, breeding specialist.

lster Farmers’ Union has launched a new membership category for businesses who rely on farming families for production or provide a service to the agriculture industry. “The UFU is delighted to announce this new addition to our membership offering, which allows us to extend our demographic to businesses who depend on farm production or to those who offer a particular service to our farmers,” said Ivor Ferguson, president, UFU. “This corporate membership will create great opportunities for businesses who are invested in the farming industry in one way or another.

“They will be able to form relations with the UFU and other professionals in the agri industry through UFU events, and keep up to date with all the ongoings in the sector from Brexit to greenhouse gas emissions, health and education, and everything inbetween through our weekly e-bulletin. They can also avail of selected enhancements with NFU Mutual on Farming Union Advantage and receive special member discount prices. “The support of corporate members will help us secure a viable and sustainable agriculture industry which will have a positive impact on the success

of their business. It is of no doubt that challenging times lie ahead with a solution to no-deal Brexit still to be found and we need everyone in the farming sector to come together and support one another in order to protect the future of NI’s farm family structure. “By launching the corporate membership, we are reaching out to businesses who make a positive contribution to the agriculture industry by buying local produce or providing a much-needed service to our farmers, so that our farming sector can continue to grow and thrive before and after Brexit.”

FARMER-FOCUSED UPLAND UFU CALLS ON DAIRY PROCESSORS TO PAY TRUE PROGRAMME OFFERS MILK PRICE POTENTIAL BENEFITS TO NI U

lster Farmers’ Union Hill Farming Policy Committee says DAERA should investigate an upland scheme that has hill farmers at its core, similar to the Burren Programme in the Republic of Ireland. “The Burren Programme works closely with local farmers to agree on a plan that will help optimise and adapt their farming systems,” said Nigel McLaughlin, UFU hill farming chairman. “The ultimate aim is to ensure the next generation farmers can continue

to produce high-quality food from an outstanding environment which is valued and appreciated by all. “Farmers determine their own stocking rates, decide how to manage their pasture and, with the help of specialist advisors, address environmental issues and are rewarded annually for their results. It is an excellent example of farmers, government and environmental groups working in partnership on a programme that delivers for all parties.”

lster Farmers’ Union is calling on the board members of all Northern Ireland dairy companies to challenge their CEOs to pay a reflective and true milk price to farmers. Northern Ireland prices have fallen behind key indicators since late autumn last year and are 2/2.50p behind what markets are returning, including any margin deduction. “It’s time for processors to wake up,” said Victor Chestnutt, deputy president, UFU. “The NI base milk price is lagging behind key market indicators, but there is also a widening gap with milk-producing neighbouring countries. Dairy processor board members should be making this case to their chairs and chief executives. Dairy processors need to stop sitting on their hands and, at the bare minimum, hold the milk price until the end of the year; it is the least dairy farmers deserve at this stage.”

MARKETING NEWS

LMC’S PILOT SCHEME STRIVES FLAHAVAN’S PORRIDGE SET TO FUEL TO BRING MEAT4SCHOOLS ATHLETICS NI LEAGUE

From left, Roger Sheahan and Liam McCarthy, ABP Food Group; Cherrie Kenny, LMC education services manager; Heather Kettle, head of Food and Nutrition at Enniskillen Royal Grammar School; Harry Sinclair, LMC board member; Gerard McGivern, LMC chairman; and Hugh McGahan, ABP Food Group.

ivestock and Meat Commission for Northern Ireland is launching a pilot scheme which aims to improve the availability of beef and lamb for pupils studying food-related subjects in postprimary schools. The Meat4Schools scheme is being run in the form of a competition in which one school from each of the six counties and Belfast will have the chance to win £100 worth of Northern Ireland Farm Quality Assured beef and lamb for use in class. With the beef and lamb being supplied by ABP Food Group, the winning post-primary schools will also receive a meat temperature probe. “Our Northern Ireland Beef and Lamb Farm Quality Assurance Scheme (NIBL FQAS) is incorporated into the GCSE Food and Nutrition and A Level Nutrition and Food Science

syllabuses,” said Colin Smith, industry development manager. “Our hope through this scheme is that pupils can further their understanding of food traceability, animal welfare and environmental sustainability which are key pillars of NIBL FQAS. “To win we’re simply asking food-related classes to answer two questions based around the theme of food provenance, traceability and nutrition. Classes must also create their own beef or lamb recipe and winners will be announced on Monday, January 13, 2020.” Applications are now open, and must be returned by 4pm on Monday, October 21. Competition details and terms and conditions are available on: www.food4life.org.uk.

From left, Rebekah Laffin (Towerview Primary School), Elsa Montgomery (Holywood Primary School), Cora Scullion (St Patrick’s Eskra), Sarah Van Der Linde (Loughview Primary School), Para World Championship finalist and Flahavan’s Ambassador James Hamilton, Clara Casey (St Patrick’s Primary School Derry) Abigail Curran (Stranmillis Primary School), and Lilly Rimmer (Moira Primary School).

ara World Championship finalist James Hamilton recently joined local young runners at St Columb’s Park in Derry~Londonderry to launch this year’s Flahavan’s Athletics NI Primary School Cross Country League. The League, which is expected to attract over 4,500 entrants from 200+ schools will bring together young runners aged between nine and 12 years old from across Northern Ireland – and marks the ninth consecutive year of sponsorship by Flahavan’s Porridge. Following on from the successful introduction last year of a new format for the League, runners will compete in one of two regional rounds held in counties Down and Antrim or the North West, Causeway Coast, Southern and Tyrone/Fermanagh area – each taking place over a week in October and November. Qualifying runners will then be invited to take part in the final due to be held on January 22, 2020.

FOREST FEAST BRINGS NEW KIDS RANGE TO MARKET IN PARTNERSHIP WITH RORY BEST Forest Feast Super Fruit Shapes ambassador and rugby star Rory Best is pictured with his children Richie, Penny and Ben.

reland rugby captain and father of three Rory Best has come on board as an ambassador to support the launch of Forest Feast’s Super Fruit Shapes and roll out the Forest Feast Super Wild Challenge*.

“To mark the launch, we’re encouraging everyone from families and friends to the young and the young at heart to get up, get out and get active and to take on the Forest Feast Super Wild Challenge,” said Best. “We had great fun creating the list of challenges and many of the activities are ones that we enjoy at home. We hope the challenges help you and your loved ones find the fun in being active outside in the fresh air.” Bronagh Clarke, marketing director, Forest Feast, said: “We’re delighted to launch Super Fruit Shapes and to have Rory and his family on board and had great fun creating the Forest Feast Super Wild Challenge with them. We’re launching with a full 360 campaign, including PR, digital, outdoor and sampling, and aiming to encourage kids to see the world through wide eyes, and not wide screens, by getting out and getting active.” *All challenges must be completed under the supervision of an adult.

EXPORT NEWS

MORELLI’S ICE CREAM MAKES A RIPPLE WITH MORRISONS M

orelli’s has secured a new deal to supply its award-winning offering to Morrisons, one of the biggest supermarket chains in the UK. The new contract sees the brand expanding into the UK mainland market for the first time, with Morrisons stocking 90 of its stores across the North of England and Midlands with three of Morelli’s most popular flavours; Double Cream Vanilla, Honeycomb and Raspberry Ripple. Launching in stores on October 7, all varieties will be available to purchase in the 950ml take-home range. Entry into this new market follows Morelli’s expansion into the Republic of Ireland in 2017 and the brand’s Double Cream Vanilla flavour being named the best in the UK and Ireland at the 2019 Ice Cream Awards in February this year.

From left, Arnaldo Morelli, head of the family business, and Daniela Morelli, sales and marketing director.

MILLBAY OYSTERS PLANS EXPANSION TO MEET STRONG DEMAND IN CHINA

illbay Oysters is planning a significant expansion of its existing oyster farm on the north side of Carlingford Lough, as a result of strong growth in key markets such as China and France. Based near Kilkeel, the business is headed by Andrew Rooney and has seen sales in China grow to 25% of its overall oyster business. Millbay oysters, awarded the coveted three stars in Great Taste 2019 and overall supreme champion last year in Blas na hEireann, are supplied to high-end restaurants, hotels, private parties and embassies including the British Consulate General in Hong Kong. “Our Millbay oysters are being enjoyed by diners in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, the three centres where we now have distributors,” said Rooney. “While I’ve been travelling to trade shows in China for many years and have developed business for Rooney Fish seafood and shellfish, the first sales of my Millbay oysters were agreed only just before Christmas of 2018. “Our farming techniques are focusing on maximising meat content. Our meat yield is generally 22%. Existing and potential customers are increasingly recognising this quality. As result, demand for the oysters especially in China is extremely strong.” To meet growing demand, Millbay is seeking planning approval for a substantial expansion of its existing 18.4-hectare farm on Carlingford Lough,

“With such a big retail presence in the UK, launching our products to the mainland market with Morrisons is a big achievement for us,” said Arnaldo Morelli, head of the family business. “It offers the perfect platform to introduce a new customer base to some of our most popular flavours.” To support the partnership with Morrisons, Morelli’s has invested in new equipment and an additional 70-pallet freezer to meet demand, housed in the expanded Coleraine production facility completed at the end of 2018. The Morelli family has been making ice cream since 1911, and operates a number of family-owned retail outlets across Northern Ireland and several franchise units, alongside listings in local supermarkets and convenience stores.

PURE ROAST INVESTS IN SWITCH TO COMPOSTABLE PACKS

orthern Ireland roaster Pure Roast Coffee is doubling capacity to meet increased demand for its coffee beans, ground coffee and easy serving espresso pods in global Martin Symington, managing director of Pure markets, as well as Roast Coffee. launching compostable packaging and coffee bags in October. Based in Lisburn, Co Antrim, it has seen its sales grow by 30% in Britain and 25% in China, its principal export market. A £500,000 investment in equipment and facilities has included the introduction of a second coffee roaster, a state-of-the-art packaging machine, and a second high-speed pod machine to produce the company’s longstanding easy serve espresso pods, which are now widely used in foodservice throughout the UK, Ireland, Sweden and China. The investment, assisted by business development agency Invest Northern Ireland, also includes new warehousing which expands the coffee roasting plant to 30,000 square foot. In addition to this, the company has achieved BRC AA quality accreditation. The company was formed by local businessman Martin Symington, who introduced convection coffee roasting to Northern Ireland in 2006. Pure Roast Coffee now employs 16 people, with plans to add a further six employees to the team in early 2020. 35

BUSINESS NEWS

BUSINESS OWNERS PREPARE FOR BELFAST COIN C olu, the tech company behind Belfast Coin, met with retailers and business owners expected to be among the first cohort of traders to sign up to the incentive-based rewards app on September 5. With support from local trade groups and Belfast BIDs, representatives from Colu hosted a breakfast-briefing event for local companies interested in Belfast Coin to learn more about the opportunities the app presents for their respective businesses. Due to go live later in the autumn, Belfast Coin will be accepted as payment in hundreds of shops, bars and eateries across the city. The app is designed to act as a rewards platform; gifting users exclusive discounts and money-back offers when they use the app to purchase goods or services in independently-run businesses. Its aim is to help drive new footfall through the door while also delivering for an existing, loyal consumer base via

From left, Chris Bunce, Belfast Community sales manager; Richard Cherry, general manager, Colu UK; and Leona Mills, Belfast Community marketing manager.

Colu’s attractive rewards system. Belfast Coin is designed to encourage Belfast residents to shop independently and support local businesses as shoppers generate more ‘coins’ with each transaction. Coins can also be accrued for other city-minded behaviours, known to make an encouraging environmental impact, such as visiting parks or using

public transport. “Retail NI is pleased to welcome Colu and the team behind Belfast Coin to our city,” said Glyn Roberts, chief executive of Retail NI. “It’s clear that we need fresh thinking and new ideas to rejuvenate the retail sector and alleviate some of the pressure many traders are facing.”

HENDERSON WHOLESALE ACHIEVES SILVER IIP ACCREDITATION

enderson Wholesale has been awarded silver accreditation against the Investors in People standard. The company employs more than 650 people from its Group headquarters in Mallusk, providing a broad range of business support services to over 450 independent stores trading under the Group’s brands including SPAR, EUROSPAR, VIVO, VIVOXTRA and VIVO Essentials. “Our wholesale business not only supplies a vast range of fresh and ambient foods from our warehouses, but we also have a huge team providing an array of support services for our retailers; everything from marketing to training and IT services, which positions

our stores at the leading edge within the UK grocery sector,” said Sam Davidson, Group HR director. “With this in mind, we always aim to provide the highest level of customer service, delivered by a team who are highly motivated thanks to the variety of work and growth opportunities within our company. “This accreditation sits alongside recent Gold Standard recognition for our sister companies Henderson Retail and Henderson Foodservice, as well as an Accredited Award for Henderson Group Property, all demonstrating the Group’s commitment to achieving outstanding performance through excellent people management practices.’’

From left, Martin Agnew, joint managing director, Henderson Group; Justine McGreevey, head of The Academy; and Sam Davidson, Group HR director.

LUCOZADE RIBENA SUNTORY AIMING FOR SUSTAINABLE PLASTIC

Mark Aherne, GM at Lucozade Ribena Suntory Ireland.

ucozade Ribena Suntory Ireland, through its parent company Suntory

Beverage and Food Europe has set out a plan to move to 100% sustainable plastic bottles within a decade, fully moving away from virgin plastic derived from fossil fuels in line with Suntory Group’s global ambition. By 2030, the manufacturer of Lucozade Energy, Lucozade Sport and Ribena, will aim to use plastic previously used or biosourced (plant-based) to reach its 100% sustainable plastic packaging target. “This marks a significant milestone in the evolution of our business in Ireland

and for the soft drinks sector globally,” said Mark Aherne, general manager at Lucozade Ribena Suntory Ireland. “By 2030, we aim to use only plantbased materials or plastic that has been previously used to make our bottles. Before this, by 2025, we will ensure that all of our packaging will be reusable or recyclable and we will reduce our use of plastic materials where we are able. We are ready and willing to invest the time, resource and money that will be needed to make this vision a reality.”

APPOINTMENTS

JAMES AMAR APPOINTED TO NEW GROWTH ROLE WITHIN FAMILY-OWNED DISTRIBUTOR J ames Amar has been promoted to a key business development role within the family-owned distributor. Taking up the new role of commercial analyst, Amar will work closely with the company’s sales and marketing teams to identify opportunities for new and existing brand owners within the UK’s fast-growing grocery market. “As a leading distributor with more than 40 successful brand partnerships already in place, we have had a strong track record of developing new opportunities within UK grocery and foodservice for brand owners from all over the world since 1945,” said

Amar, who was previously a brand manager within the company’s marketing team. “But with the retail market alone predicted to grow by 14.8% to £218.5bn by 2023, and the online and convenience channels set to be among the biggest growth drivers within that, we have a greater opportunity than ever to help brands realise their James Amar. true potential.” To illustrate this point, Amar points to the success that RH Amar has achieved for key brands within its portfolio in recent times including: • Creating a new sales opportunity within wholesale and foodservice for leading baby food brand Ella’s Kitchen,

turning it into the best-selling brand in convenience to match its success in multiple grocery • Quadrupling sales for Nando’s retail brands within wholesale and convenience • Turning German pickles brand Kühne into a multi-million-pound sales success within wholesale, convenience and foodservice, adding to the success the brand had already enjoyed in multiple retail Rob Amar, managing director, said: “In his new role, James will be well placed to expand on this strong record for both new and existing brand partners, with these success stories very much proving how the distributor model is even more relevant now than it was when our grandfather founded this business almost 75 years ago.”

AROUND NOON MAKES KEY BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT APPOINTMENTS

ewry-headquartered food-to-go leader Around Noon has made key appointments to support the expansion of its business in the UK and Ireland. Guy Truman joins as commercial director in the UK at the innovative company while Collette Keenan takes up the role of head of business development and Orla Morris is appointed business development manager for Northern Ireland. Around Noon employs over 330 people and its clients include a range of blue-chip companies, including leading convenience retailers, contract caterers and coffee shop chains. In addition to its Newry headquarters, it has a manufacturing facility in Slough. “We are delighted to welcome Guy, Collette and Orla to the business,” said Gareth Chambers, CEO of Around Noon. “They all come with very strong experience and track records in the food-to-go market and I have no doubt will add considerable value to Around Noon as we continue to grow our business across the UK and Ireland with existing and new customers.”

Guy Truman.

Collette Keenan.

Orla Morris.

SHELFLIFE To see your product featured in Shelf Life, contact Chris Keenan at c.keenan@independentmagazinesni.co.uk or Tel: 028 9026 4267

BALLYMALOE CRANBERRY SAUCE B

allymaloe Cranberry Sauce is made with whole cranberries, sugar, water and nothing else. It is bursting with a delicious fruity flavour which is attributed to the whole cranberries and long, opentop cooking time. It is delicious when eaten with traditional roast meats such as turkey, chicken and ham. For a delicious twist on a classic sandwich, mix it through some mayonnaise for a mouth-watering pink mayo. It is also scrumptious when enjoyed with brie-type cheeses. Widely available across Northern Ireland retailers, essential for your Christmas grocery shopping list.

EDWARDS PICKLES

r Edwards & Mr Frederick King started pickling crunchy fresh veg in Belfast in 1896. Since then, we’ve carried on the tradition, making our unique, Belfast recipe pickles so deliciously tangy, they’ll give any taste bud a decent tickle. The Edwards brand holds a strong heritage and is a well-recognised Northern Irish pickle brand. With a loyal customer base, Edwards prides itself on reputation for its ‘unique local taste’. Check out our recipe section for some great menu ideas using Edwards pickles. Widely available across Northern Ireland retailers, Christmas wouldn’t be complete without it.

KICK OFF THE RUGBY SEASON WITH FOREST FEAST’S NEW ‘SCRUM-PTIOUS’ RANGE H ealthy snack brand Forest Feast is gearing up for the upcoming rugby season with the launch of a new range of limited-edition nut mixes - inspired by some of the great rugby nations from around the world. Believe it or ‘nut’, savoury snacks have always been a staple favourite for sports fans, so Forest Feast has crafted four new, uniquely-blended nut mixes to satisfy these cravings. Each pack is full of bold 38

flavours and will provide the fuel needed to power through a full 80 minutes until the final whistle. The carefully-curated range, which takes inspiration from flavours found in some of the greatest rugby playing nations, includes: • BBQ Haka: Sweet & sticky BBQ cashews and peanuts with crunchy peas, smoky almonds, honey mustard and onion sesame sticks

• Steak and Stout: Flame-grilled steak flavoured peanuts and cashews with dry roasted peanuts and Irish stout flavoured almonds • Cheddar and Onion: Mature cheddar and onion peanuts and cashews with tangy cheese peanuts, cashews, almonds and pumpkin seeds • Teriyaki: Sweet and tangy Teriyaki peanuts and almonds with spicy sweet chilli nuts and seeds

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AN EASY REFERENCE TO THE BEST FOR YOUR BUSINESS

Q&A TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF I’m a graduate of Harper Adams University, where I studied a BSc in Food, Nutrition and Wellbeing and an MSc in Food Industry Management. After living in England for five years, I recently returned to Northern Ireland where I’ve taken up a post with the Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC) as education and consumer promotions manager. In the last few months, my partner and I have bought an old cottage and are working to renovate it, which is keeping me busy.

IN THE HOT SEAT LAUREN HYDE, EDUCATION AND CONSUMER PROMOTIONS MANAGER, LIVESTOCK & MEAT COMMISSION FOR NORTHERN IRELAND

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY INVOLVE? In my current role, I find that no two days are the same as our work is so varied, but ultimately I help to develop LMC’s education and consumer promotion programme in line with the organisation’s business objectives to help market and inform Northern Ireland’s red meat industry. I spend a lot of time co-ordinating post-primary school cookery demonstrations, overseeing LMC’s media campaign, digital marketing and organising events like the Balmoral Show, Love Lamb Week and NI Beef Week. WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE? As I have just recently started out on my career path, I would have to say that my proudest moment to date has been achieving my MSc in Food Industry Management whilst balancing and settling into my new role at LMC. I would also say I am lucky to have been able to get my dream job as my first step on the career path. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? I really love that no two days are ever the same. I get the chance to work on a variety of projects, from creating recipes to hosting teacher’s workshops, and have the opportunity to meet and work with so many people across multiple industries. I also find that the wide range of activities that LMC does means that I’m constantly being pushed to be more creative, innovative and challenged to learn new things. I would say I am quite an inquisitive person, and I love that my job gives me the opportunity to ask more and more. WHAT IS YOUR MOST DIFFICULT TASK? We are a small team at LMC and we 42

are facing big challenges within the industry but, because of our passion and determination, we always work hard to exceed our goals and to promote all the positives that our industry has to offer. WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED? One of my teachers in secondary school once said that a little bit of hard work goes a long way and I can say that’s absolutely true. I was once told to never have to regret something in the future, because it requires a little bit of hard work now. I have used that advice for so many things and it has definitely helped me to achieve what I have so far in my academic and career paths, and it will continue to challenge me to achieve more in the future. WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE? I’ve been to Canada a number of times on holiday and I love it there. The skiing in Canada is amazing - and I think my

highlight would be skiing on Grouse Mountain where the Winter Olympics in 2010 were held. The Canadian way of life is so different to what we would be used to, and I love how laid back and relaxed it is. It’s such a beautiful country too; if you haven’t been yet, you definitely need to add it to your list. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD PRODUCT? As someone who loves cooking and experimenting in the kitchen, it’s very difficult for me to choose just one food product. I am always willing to try new foods and love looking out for new products on the shelves, however, LMC’s newest Hawaiian Burger recipe is definitely a popular dinner at home at the minute. HOW DO YOU RELAX? My ideal way to relax is taking our cocker spaniel, Monty, on a long walk and coming home to do some baking on a cold, crisp morning.