Ulster Grocer

TM

40 years at the heart of the Northern Ireland food industry

YEARBOOK JANUARY 2015

Grocer ULSTER

ULSTER GROCER YEARBOOK AND DIRECTORY JANUARY 2015

Now in their 27th

year, the prestigious Ulster Grocer Marketing Awards are Open for Entry

Grocer ULSTER

Market ingAwards

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TM

40 Years At the heart of the Northern Ireland food industry

2015

The 2015 Awards feature eight categories designed to showcase the very best that the local food and grocery retail industry has to offer: Best Marketing Campaign 2014 Best In-Store Consumer Sales Promotion Best New Product Launch/Relaunch Best CSR Initiative Charity Partnership Best Brand Best Artisan Foods Campaign Green Retailer of the Year Best Food Export Marketing Award

Winners will be revealed: When: Friday 22nd May Where: Gala Ball, Supporting Grocery Aid, Culloden Hotel, Belfast How to enter:

By Tel: 028 90783235

By Email: markbeckett@greerpublications.com

Closing Date for Entries: Tuesday 31st March Why Enter?

This is a prime opportunity to generate positive PR, to raise your company profile within the grocery sector, to boost staff morale, to target potential customers and to network with key clients who will be in attendance at the Gala Ball. All entries will also benefit from editorial coverage in Ulster Grocer magazine and online at www.ulstergrocer.com

ULSTER GROCERS’

Gala Ball

Supporting GroceryAid

Friday 22nd May

2015

Friday 22nd May 2015 For all the latest news! Follow us on Twitter@ulstergrocer#ugmarketingawards

FOREWORD Volume 50, Number 1 January 2015 Editor: Alyson Magee E: alysonmagee@greerpublications.com Sales Manager: Mark Beckett E: markbeckett@greerpublications.com Contributors: Brian McCalden, Donald McFetridge, Robert Watson, Seamus McCaffrey, Jason Winstanley, Lynsey McKitterick, David Elliott & Amanda Ferguson Senior Accounts Manager: Michelle Kearney E: michellekearney@greerpublications.com Art Editor: Karen Donnelly Accounts: Gerardine Carson Publishers: James and Gladys Greer Ulster Grocer is published by Greer Publications 5B Edgewater Business Park, Belfast Harbour Estate, BELFAST BT3 9JQ Tel: 028 9078 3200 Fax: 028 9078 3210 Web: www.greerpublications.com www.ulstergrocer.com @ulstergrocer www.facebook.com/ulstergrocer Subscription: £27.50 per annum

£37.50 outside UK Designed & Produced by: Greer Publications Design Tel: 028 9078 3200 Printed by: W&G Baird, Antrim Tel: 028 9446 3911

Greer Publications © 2015. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without the prior permission of Greer Publications.

36 • Ulster Grocer | JANUARY 2011

www.ulstergrocer.com

A leading local industry with a proven track record for growth by peter robinson, first minister for northern ireland

T

he importance of the food and drink industry to Northern Ireland’s local economy cannot be underestimated. We have a reputation for producing high quality, safe and wholesome food which, combined with our innovative and entrepreneurial food processing sector, has enabled us to punch above our weight on the world stage.

Agri-food is one of Northern Ireland’s most successful industries with a proven track record for growth. Latest statistics estimate turnover in the food and drinks processing sector to be £4.5bn in 2013, an increase of almost 7% on the previous year. Indeed sales growth over the last five years has averaged 7% per year. Employment in the sector has also been growing – in 2013 there were the equivalent of 20,390 full time employees, accounting for 27% of employment within the wider manufacturing area.

Our agri-food sector’s successes in both quality and taste were most recently highlighted at the Great Taste Awards, where 99 local companies secured a record 264 awards, including 11 in the highest three star category, with eight local products listed in the Top 50.

This is an outstanding set of results, in what is regarded to be the most significant and trendsetting food and drink event across the United Kingdom. It demonstrates the quality of the product and the creativity of many of our producers. The spread of winners across all sizes of companies and geographically reflects the strength of our food industry.

Globally, the food industry faces both opportunities and challenges – population growth and increased demand against a background of increasing scarcity of land, water and energy and a need to safeguard our natural resources for future generations.

Northern Ireland’s local industry, however, is already thinking of the future and how to balance these competing pressures and deliver further growth. In Going for Growth, the industry led Agri-Food Strategy Board has outlined a strategic vision for the sector of growing a sustainable, profitable and integrated supply chain, focused on delivering the needs of the market, and has developed a strategic plan to bring about that vision.

This is an industry that is forward thinking and ambitious, and the Executive is committed to supporting the achievement of the challenging industry targets set by the Agri-Food Strategy Board. A lot of work has been carried out, and a significant programme of further work remains but, together with industry, we will do all that we can to ensure the sector is in the best possible position to capitalise on its successes and maximise its contribution to further prosperity in the local economy.

We have a reputation for producing high quality, safe and wholesome food which, combined with our innovative and entrepreneurial food processing sector, has enabled us to punch above our weight on the world stage.”

3

email: info@ulstergrocer.com

CONTENTS

38-39

www.ulstergrocer.com

30 9-11

59-61 31-36

55-57 8 364• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

CONTENTS

email: info@ulstergrocer.com

www.ulstergrocer.com

8 RETROSPECT AND PROSPECT: Donald C McFetridge, a leading retail analyst, looks at the evolution of Northern Ireland’s grocery sector including the shifting fortunes of multiple, independent and discount retailers over the past year and forecasts for trading in 2015.

9-11 YEAR IN REVIEW: Ulster Grocer looks back at many of the key events in the grocery and wider agri-food sectors over the past year.

48-49

30 GREEN CREDENTIALS: In UG’s sustainable store profile, a new SuperValu in Crossgar reflects Musgrave Retail Partners’ focus on sustainable store design which is better for the environment and retailer margins.

31-36 STAR STORES: Symbol groups and multiple retailers have nominated shops standing out from the crowded retail market as representing excellence in grocery retailing.

38-39 INVESTING IN THE FUTURE: Continuing to grow sales, the Henderson Group has major investment plans for 2015 including the expansion of its Mallusk site, marketing activity and a continued fresh food push.

48-49 CRAFT PRODUCERS: Local artisan food and drinks represent a burgeoning niche, buoyed by support from local agencies and awards success.

98

55-57 SUSTAINABLE SECTOR: Sustainability is the theme of the Yearbook 2015, and UG looks at some of the latest news and developments as businesses embrace efficiency initiatives aimed at reducing their environmental impact.

59-61 IF YOU’RE NOT IN, YOU CAN’T WIN: Entries are now open for the Ulster Grocer Marketing Awards 2015. Find out more about the prestigious awards to be held at the GroceryAid Ulster Grocers’ Ball on May 22.

98 FLASH HARRY: In the Hot Seat this month, Harry Hamilton – project manager of the Access 6 Programme at Northern Ireland Food and Drink – uses his 30 years of experience in the food industry to inform his busy role but also has a stage persona as Freddie Mercury in a Queen tribute band.

8 • Ulster Grocer | JANUARY 2011

ULSTER GROCER YEARBOOK 2015

12-24

Contents

12-24 TRADE COMMENTARY: Industry representatives from across government, agencies, promotional organisations, and food producers, manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers look back on key developments over the past year alongside their expectations for 2015.

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NEWS

New Year, new addition to the Ulster Grocer team M

EDITOR’S COMMENT: WISHING THE GROCERY TRADE A SUSTAINABLE 2015

T

he grocery trade in Northern Ireland, and UK-wide, is currently in flux with the once seemingly-unstoppable growth of multiple retailers giving way to resurging fortunes for convenience retailers, whether symbol group partners or independent traders, and the rapid rise of the discount sector.

A variety of factors are driving the changes and leading retail analyst Donald C McFetridge lends his expert eye to the evolution of grocery trading and his forecasts for the year ahead on p8.

A further apparent trend over the past year has been the continued growth of the local artisan food and drinks sector, which is achieving wide-spread recognition in terms of awards and export contracts. Our biggest food producers, such as Moy Park, Dale Farm and Fane Valley, meanwhile, continue to excel and expand.

Sustainability is the theme of the Ulster Grocer Yearbook 2015, reflected across many of the commentaries and profiles, and is clearly a vital contributor to the success or otherwise of the various sectors involved in the grocery trade.

In one sense, the word applies to an environmentally-friendly approach which improves efficiencies and boosts margins for traders. Another, equally valid interpretation indicates businesses investing in the future and adapting to changing market conditions to ensure their ongoing relevance and success.

May our readers and advertisers enjoy a happy, successful and sustainable New Year. On behalf of Ulster Grocer, I’d like to thank you all for your support in 2014 and the team is looking forward to working with the trade in 2015.

Alyson Magee 6

ark Beckett has joined Ulster Grocer as sales manager.

Mark graduated from the University of Ulster at Coleraine with a degree in Media Studies in 1992 and boasts an impressive background in newspaper and digital sales, with the Belfast News Letter, Belfast Telegraph and latterly Yell, which he will put to use in his new role.

He lives in Ballynure with his wife Micola, and children Sienna, Savannah and Coen, enjoying a normal, hectic family life and – when he gets the chance – outdoor activities such as climbing and mountaineering.

“I’m looking forward to meeting and working with the grocery trade,” says Mark, “and will tackle this new position with my usual passion, enthusiasm and tenacity.”

Mark Beckett

Local industry welcomes devolved corporation tax P

ublication of the Corporation Tax Bill, devolving corporation tax powers to Northern Ireland, has been broadly welcomed by local trade bodies as a positive move towards securing a sustainable economic future.

The Northern Ireland Executive was, among other measures, required to pass its budget for the year 2015/16 before Westminster granted devolution of corporation tax. A draft budget was passed as part of the Stormont House Agreement reached at the 11th hour on December 23, with the final budget then passed earlier this month by the DUP and Sinn Féin.

“Coming on the back of corporation tax reduction, more Foreign Direct Investment will lead to more jobs which will be a big long term boost to our local retail sector,” said Glyn Roberts, chief executive of the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association (NIIRTA). “We must, in parallel with the devolution of corporation tax, ensure that we have the world class skills and training to attract the world class Foreign Direct Investment. It is therefore essential that the proposed cuts to further education do not proceed. Post-corporation tax, the next big challenge for the economy will be skills and training.”

Lowering the tax would benefit around 34,000 businesses in Northern Ireland, including 26,500 small businesses, while offering indirect benefits to many other

businesses as the economy grows, said the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).

Also welcoming the news was the Institute of Directors (IoD) Northern Ireland. “This decision heralds a new dawn for the Northern Ireland economy, one of job creation and business expansion,” said Linda Brown, director of IoD NI. “This Bill will greatly assist in rebalancing the economy and preparing the foundations from which we can flourish.”

In the final budget, Finance Minister Simon Hamilton allocated an additional £150m in funding including £60m to frontline education, £3m to Invest NI and £2m to the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD).

Public sector jobs are to be cut by 20,000 posts over the next four years – via a voluntary exit scheme, according to First Minister Peter Robinson.

While expressing its disappointment that the final budget was only passed by two of the five parties represented in the Executive, NIIRTA welcomed the increased funding available for education.

“While it is good news that the Minister has committed £20m for the Small Business Rate Relief Scheme for this year, we are concerned about its long-term future,” said Roberts. “This is an extremely challenging Budget, which rightly makes a priority of supporting economic development.”

NEWS

Northern Ireland retail footfall outperforms UK average S

hopper footfall in Northern Ireland increased by an average of 2% across 2014 with numbers rising by 1.4% year-onyear in December, according to the latest figures from the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium (NIRC)/Springboard Footfall Monitor.

The shopper footfall rise in Northern Ireland in December stood against a UKwide decline of 0.7% of which high street football bore the brunt at -1.8%. UK-wide, out-of-town grew by 1.3% while other regions experiencing a lift in footfall included the South East, East and Scotland. Footfall UK-wide fell by 0.7% for 2014 as a whole.

“Northern Ireland recorded a very healthy and welcome spike in shopper footfall numbers in December, bolstered by the important Christmas trading period and by retailers’ own promotional activities,” said Aodhán Connolly, director of the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium. “The resumption in footfall growth last month led to Northern Ireland recording the fourth best results from

across 10 different parts of the UK. “The robust footfall growth witnessed over 2014 as a whole is especially pleasing, with the 2% uplift over the year better than Scotland or Wales or indeed the UK as a whole. Policy makers in Northern Ireland should seek to capitalise on this positive news in 2015 by pursing policies which keep down the cost of doing business and which make our town centres and high streets as attractive and accessible as possible.”

Diane Wehrle, director of Retail Insights at Springboard, said another key difference in Northern Ireland was the growth in footfall in both high streets and shopping centres in December.

“The improved footfall position, in combination with the increasing maturity of online shopping, indicates that online is driving activity back into bricks and mortar stores,” said Wehrle.

The December boost in Northern Ireland followed a poor November, in which footfall fell by 0.7%.

UFU welcomes milk intervention price proposal A

number of proposals aimed at aiding the beleaguered UK dairy sector, including pushing the European Commission to review the intervention price for milk, have been welcomed by the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU).

Earlier this month, the House of Commons’ Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) committee published a number of recommendations aimed at alleviating dairy sector pressures.

According to UFU, its representatives met with Agriculture Secretary Liz Truss to highlight many of the issues, alongside recommendations, back in November.

“Since April 2014, Northern Ireland has witnessed the base price for milk drop substantially from 32ppl in April to 21.50ppl in December,” said Ian Marshall, president of UFU. “In addition, Northern Ireland dairy farmers tend to see a drop in the price of milk before their GB counterparts due to its exposure to export markets, which sees NI export 85% of its milk.

“Back in November when I met with Mrs Truss, we called for a review of the EU intervention price for dairy products. She did not support our proposal, so we therefore welcome the recommendation put forward by the EFRA Committee to seek a commitment from the EC to review the intervention price for milk.

“This in effect would lessen the impact of negative price volatility when commodity markets drop again to an unsustainable level and would see farmers receiving a price that could reflect the actual cost of production. I am also encouraged by the focus in EFRA’s report on the role of the Groceries Code Adjudicator.”

Dairy UK, meanwhile, supported many of the recommendations in the EFRA report.

“In particular, we support the committee’s recommendation that Defra explore practical steps to help the export of UK dairy products, and there are clearly identifiable areas where government can help, such as the simplification of export documentation and the funding of foreign inspection visits,” said Dr Judith Bryans, chief executive of Dairy UK. “We also believe that longer-term country of origin labelling will be of benefit to the industry and to the British consumer.”

7

GROCERY SECTOR ANALYSIS

The supermarket sector in Northern Ireland: retrospect and prospect

By Donald C McFetridge, retail analyst at Ulster University Business School

A

lmost 20 years ago, the supermarket sector in Northern Ireland changed irrevocably when J Sainsbury plc became the first of the major British multiples to announce their intentions to set up store in the region in June 1995. Since then, the retail landscape has changed beyond all recognition.

Indigenous chains such as Stewarts, Crazy Prices and Wellworths are no longer in operation. Instead we see the logos and brand names of Tesco, ASDA and Sainsbury’s above the doors of our supermarkets; these are the new and constantly changing fascia. Others, like Safeway and Morrisons, have come and gone and this is a pattern which is set to continue.

However, it has not all been smooth sailing.

There have been so-called store wars in the supermarket sector but (in my opinion) it has been little more than sabre-rattling. The real store wars are about to begin as we enter 2015 and look ahead in anticipation of changing patterns of consumer behaviour in respect of HOW, WHERE and FOR WHAT REASON consumers choose to shop.

During the past year, there have been some shocking revelations in the national press as well as proven cases of poor accounting practices in order to make companies appear to be more attractive than they actually are.

In 2015, we are likely to see more changes at Board level in many of the large supermarket store groups which operate here in Northern Ireland. There have been big changes at Tesco in recent months and the ‘surprise’ departure of Philip Dalton as CEO of Morrisons is a portent of more change to come.

While the fortunes and market shares of the BIG FOUR continue to shift and change there are, of course, others waiting in the wings to make their entrance into the NI supermarket sector.

In the meantime, the convenience sector has continued to grow and exceed market expectations. Nowadays, consumers are shopping more frequently in smaller format stores and this has provided an excellent platform for an increasingly confident convenience sector. Fortunately, this looks set to continue to remain the case during the rest of this year and well into the next.

Convenience store operators have faced their competitors with confidence and resilience by expanding their product ranges and by changing their approaches to promotions, advertising, public and media relations. And, it has worked. So far!

8

By far the biggest challenge in the industry is the German discounters. Lidl, in particular, has shown its true mettle and traded up in terms of the Wheel of Retailing. They cleverly entered the NI marketplace quietly, but they have managed to grow their market share by trading up in terms of their product offerings and pricing strategies. Clever sourcing of local product has also helped them to continue to earn them a place in the mindset of NI consumers.

There is no such thing these days as a ‘loyal’ consumer. Consumers have learned that they MUST shop around, they must price compare and they must not – metaphorically ‘put all their eggs in the one basket’. In short, consumers are the really important players in the Northern Ireland retail marketplace, in both the food and non-food sectors.

Even with the best product ranges, the cheapest prices, the best stores in the best locations, the multiples have had to accept that they do not have a monopoly on consumers, which is one of the many reasons why I believe every food retailer (large and small) must get back to the basic core values of their business and put the customer first.

In spite of all the doom and gloom and worries (at Board level) about the future of the BIG FOUR, there are operators at the top end of the market who continue to exceed all market expectations. Every time I examine the latest industry statistics from reliable groups such as Kantar Worldpanel, I am astounded by the growth in market share of the discounters and Waitrose.

While Tesco and Morrison have recently announced store rationalisation (in blunt terms, store closures), Waitrose have announced that they, nationally, plan to open in excess of 14 stores during 2015.

Overall, the supermarket scene has become increasingly polarised. Premium operators at the top end and discount chains at the other continue to outstrip those former bellwethers of the retail scene. This is an emerging pattern which we are going to witness increasingly during 2015 whether we like it or not!

Arguably, the most important factor to be borne in mind by supermarket operators in this region during 2015 is the customer.

If retailers have learned anything during the recent economic crisis, it should be this: The Customer must be NUMBER ONE! My prediction is that food sales will remain largely flat for 2015. Growth will be slow and minimal but price competition will still become increasingly important to consumers,

at least for the next 24 months.

It is vital that those operating in the supermarket sector brace themselves for farreaching changes during the coming year. For instance, a new retail chain could upset an already very vulnerable sector.

Retailers must, of necessity, return to their CORE values and fully concentrate on getting those messages across to consumers through clever advertising, promotion and public relations. To fail to do so would be foolhardy, if not totally unpardonable.

Product ranges must be re-visited and rationalised. We can fully expect continuing changes in consumer behaviour and shopping patterns. Those in the retail business for even a very short period of time have come to learn to expect the unexpected and 2015 will be no different.

While some of the larger players continue to SHOUT and COUNT noisily through TECHNOLOGY, there is still room for the small and medium-sized who can do something which technology cannot do. They can CONNECT IN PERSON with their customers, but they must see to it that they place their emphasis on the customer.

Computers are not people; good retailers are!

DONALD C McFETRIDGE is widely regarded as Northern Ireland’s leading retail analyst. He currently lectures in Retailing, Marketing and Applied Consumer Behaviour at the Ulster Business School in ULSTER UNIVERSITY – a position he has held for the past 25 years. During his tenure at UU, Donald has published widely in academic and trade journals and has become a familiar face and voice in local, national and international media – both print and broadcast.

In addition to this, he is the author of four well-received Business Studies textbooks and a number of book chapters on retailing and retail issues and is in wide demand as a guest speaker at retail events both at home and abroad.

His most recent work has been published in RETAILING IN IRELAND: CONTEMPORARY PERSPECTIVES (pub. Gill & Macmillan), and in the pages of the Belfast Telegraph.

YEAR IN REVIEW

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JANUARY St George’s Market in Belfast was named Best Large Indoor Market at the 2014 annual National Association of British Market Authorities awards in Birmingham. Pictured with the award are fifth generation trader Jimmy Murdoch and Pat Dyer, chairman of the Belfast branch of the National Market Traders’ Federation.

Ulster Grocer looks back at 2014 in pictures ▲

FEBRUARY Attending an industry breakfast lunch at CAFRE’s Greenmount campus as part of Farmhouse Breakfast Week were, from left, John Fay (CAFRE), Robert Moore (RUAS), Harry Sinclair (UFU), Martin Grantley-Smith (HGCA) and Noel Lavery (DARD).

APRIL ▲ The Lord Mayor of Belfast, NIIRTA Chair Nigel Maxwell and ministers Danny Kennedy, Nelson McCausland and Mark H Durkan joined NIIRTA CEO Glyn Roberts at the launch of NIIRTA’s Local First economic plan for local councils in Belfast.

MARCH ▲ Pictured at Musgrave Retail Partners’ annual awards held in the Slieve Donard Hotel with host Roy Walker are Store of the Year winners Peter McCool of SuperValu Ballymoney, Neil Sweeney of Centra Brookmount Omagh and Michael Wilson of Mace Coleraine with SuperValu and Centra Sales Director Nigel Maxwell and Mace Sales Director Trevor Magill.

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YEAR IN REVIEW ▲

MAY Claire McCann and Gwen Rafferty of Mackle Pet Foods celebrate winning Ulster Grocer Marketing Awards Best Marketing Campaign at the GroceryAid Grocers’ Ball with Joanne Curran of category sponsor AV Browne (right) and Meagan Green (left).

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MAY At the Balmoral Show, the Henderson Group held its SPAR Local Suppliers’ Awards. Pictured are winners Gordon McAtamney (K&G McAtamney), Alvin Dinghy (Fred C Robinson) and David Graham (Around Noon) with Neal Kelly, fresh food director of the Henderson Group (second from right).

▲

JUNE Northern Ireland hosted judging of the Great Taste Awards for the first time, at the Stormont Hotel in Belfast. Trade Minister Arlene Foster joined judges Jane Curran of Woman & Home, food writer Charles Champion, Bruce Langlands of Harrods and John Farrand of the Guild of Fine Food.

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JULY Moy Park led Ulster Grocer’s annual Top 25 Local Food & Drinks Companies listing, with turnover of almost £1.09bn and shortly thereafter announced a £170m expansion set to create 628 new jobs. Sponsorship of the FIFA World Cup represented a huge opportunity for Moy Park to raise its profile on a global scale, said Andrew Nethercott, director of brand marketing at Moy Park.

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AUGUST As part of the Access 6 EU-funded export programme delivered by the Northern Ireland Food & Drink Association (NIFDA), a group of local companies visited New York to explore opportunities in the North American market. Pictured are Michael Bell (NIFDA), Jack Hamilton (Mash Direct), James Mathers (White’s Oats), Niall McMullan (Hercules), Laura Jackson (CocoMojo) and Harry Hamilton (Access 6).

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YEAR IN REVIEW ▲

SEPTEMBER The Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in Westminster announced it would create a new Food Crime Unit as part of the Food Standards Agency following publication of the review it commissioned Professor Chris Elliott, director of the Institute for Global Food Security at Queen’s University Belfast, to undertake in the wake of the horsemeat scandal.

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SEPTEMBER John Farrand of the Guild of Fine Food, is pictured with John Hood of Invest NI and Peter Hannan of Hannan Meats after the Moira business was awarded Best Speciality from Northern Ireland for its Moyallon Three Sweet Bacon Ribs at the Great Taste Golden Forks Dinner. Northern Ireland was described by Farrand as punching above its weight in the Awards in 2014.

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OCTOBER Food Force Trading Controller Debra Johnston is pictured speaking at Food Force Ireland’s fourth direct supply trading day at the Culloden Hotel, alongside Gerry Cassidy who recently retired after 44 years with Allied Bakeries.

▲ NOVEMBER Dale Farm secured its first contract to export cheese to Japan.

Pictured at the SIAL exhibition in Paris are Agriculture Secretary Elizabeth Truss with Stephen Cameron and Alison Blair of Dale Farm, and Toshihiro Meguro and Junya Masuda of Mitusi.

DECEMBER ▲ Chancellor George Osborne is pictured with Joe Quail and Glyn Roberts of NIIRTA after Quails Fine Foods was among independent retailers selected to take part in the first Downing Street market to promote small business Saturday on December 6.

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COMMENTARY DEPARTMENT OF ENTERPRISE, TRADE & INVESTMENT

Recognising an important sector T

DETI Minister Arlene Foster

he food and drink industry tells a story of Northern Ireland’s culture, heritage, people and landscape. The region is well known for its soda farls, seafood, craft beers and cider.

Producers boast our rich farmland and natural resources give us a considerable advantage. Restaurateurs and food and drink companies will say wholesome and richlyflavoured ingredients mean they can provide the top quality goods today’s consumers demand.

Our food and drink industry is going from strength to strength. Last year alone, food and drink companies here announced investment projects worth around £180m and promoted over 800 new jobs. And the success story continues, with local producers increasingly winning significant business outside Northern Ireland.

Many companies now supply a wide range of premium quality food and drink to customers across the world in countries such as in Spain, Dubai and beyond.

In 2014, we continued to build on our growing reputation as a place for food and

dining excellence. This was underlined when last year, for the first time, the UK Guild of Fine Food held their Great Taste Award judging session here. This is a marvellous endorsement of the outstanding taste and originality of our local food and drink being produced by smaller enterprises and companies; 101 local companies scooped an impressive 371 Great Taste Awards.

The role of the agri-food industry cannot be understated; it is currently contributing £4.5bn a year to the local economy and growing steadily. It has been recognised as an important sector by the Northern Ireland Executive which endorsed the Agri Food Strategy Board’s Going for Growth strategic action plan. It is vital we continue to support this important industry by maximising potential, especially in relation to new and existing export markets.

We might be small in comparison to other countries and regions; however I am convinced our food and drink sector has the passion, products and professionalism to further boost export sales. I will continue to do all I can to give the industry the support it needs to make this happen.

DEPARTMENT OF agriculture & rural development

Measures to improve agri-food competitiveness 2

DARD Minister Michelle O’Neill

8 • •Ulster 3612 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

014 has been another important and busy year for the local agri-food sector.

Negotiations on CAP concluded and, in the summer, I announced my final decisions on the shape and funding of CAP and the Rural Development Programme (RDP). We recently submitted our proposed RDP to Europe following extensive stakeholder consultation and await the Commission’s feedback. Our RDP will be worth up to £623m over the lifetime of the programme and will include measures to improve the competitiveness of the agri-food industry, improve the natural environment, and develop and improve rural areas by promoting economic growth and reducing poverty and social isolation. We now have a clear picture of the EU support arrangements for the sector and the wider rural economy for the next six years.

In June, I secured the Executive’s agreement to the proposed Response to the Agri-Food Strategy Board (AFSB)’s Going for Growth report. This Response underscores the Executive’s commitment to support this vital sector and, amongst other actions, we have agreed to meet the key ask from the AFSB for a Farm Business Improvement Scheme worth up to £250m which will be delivered as part of the new RDP. This scheme aims to

help producers enhance the profitability and sustainability of their businesses, through capital investment, training and knowledge transfer, and improved supply chain integration. My officials will continue to work with the industry and other stakeholders to deliver on this and other agreed actions to help the industry achieve its vision of a sustainable, profitable and integrated agrifood supply chain, focused on delivering the needs of the market.

Key to supporting delivery of the ambitious goals of Going for Growth is identifying and securing access to new markets. Working in partnership with the industry, 70 new markets have been opened up to countries as diverse as the Dominican Republic, Singapore and Madagascar and my officials continue to work to secure access to target markets in China, Australia, Philippines and the US. Looking to 2015, the Executive will be facing unprecedented financial challenges, resources will need to be managed ever more carefully and we will have to make difficult choices and explore opportunities for collaborative working to develop the tools required to support the sector. I look forward to working closely with the industry and other departments to meet the challenges ahead.

COMMENTARY AGRI-FOOD STRATEGY BOARD

Partnership is key to sustaining growth T

AFSB Chairman Tony O’Neill

he Agri-Food Strategy Board recognised the importance of sustainability in the longterm development and continued success of our strategically important and successful food and drink industry in the Going for Growth Strategic Action Plan.

Following the Executive’s endorsement of Going for Growth, many of the 118 recommendations outlined in the plan are now being implemented.

We saw this as our sustainability credentials offering the industry a competitive advantage, and a solid platform for faster growth in markets outside Northern Ireland; particularly Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland.

But to be sustainable, the industry, currently worth £4.5bn to the local economy and employing upwards of 100,000 people, must be profitable throughout the supply chain and seek to target higher margin market niches in a more effective and efficient manner.

Retailers, of course, are an integral part of that supply chain and must accept that farmers require adequate margins to ensure the sustainability of their businesses and indeed the overall rural environment. This also means that consumers must be prepared to pay more for local food.

Our plan warned that current pressure on productivity and cost, most notably in the key local sectors of beef and dairying, has been

relentless. Using milk as a loss leader, for instance, is a serious threat to the sustainability of our dairy farmers.

The intense pressure on the future of the local industry also coincides with the growing global focus on food security, sustainable supply and food quality. This pressure is inhibiting the industry’s ability to realise its potential in a global marketplace increasingly seeking the safe and tasty food we can supply and adversely impacting the wider economy.

Sustainability demands closer working relationships throughout the supply chain, and especially between farmers, processors and retailers. It requires farmers to focus resources on more efficient production on farm and a greater willingness among processors and retailers to work with them to ensure returns that reward efficiency and the ability to meet market requirements.

There should be a greater partnership between retailers, processors and farmers working together throughout the entire supply chain on the development of innovative products for market opportunities, especially outside Northern Ireland.

This is probably the only way to ensure that the industry becomes consumer-focused and better able to sustain itself to be able to respond to existing and particularly future market trends.

INVEST NI

Sustainability route to greater business success O

Invest NI Director of Food & Tourism John Hood

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

ur strategic focus on assisting local companies to increase their ability to compete abroad for worthwhile business includes a range of support shaped to help them to meet developing sustainability requirements.

This approach is based on our recognition that businesses committed to sustainability, particularly in terms of their impact on the environment through their approach to waste management, energy, water and biodiversity, are likely to achieve greater profitability in both short and long terms.

The approach is also in line with consumer trends demanding products and services that combine quality, safety and value for money with a positive impact on the environment.

Our strategy is designed to enable businesses here to grasp the opportunities arising from this market trend and grow their business particularly in markets outside Northern Ireland.

We have, of course, an excellent reputation as a region with a strong heritage in the production of quality, nutritious and safe food and drink that conforms to the highest international hygiene standards, includes the latest labelling requirements to provide accurate

nutritional information for consumers and packaging that can be recycled.

We have developed a suite of programmes designed to advise and assist our companies to achieve consistently high standards of environmental performance by reducing energy consumption, minimising resource input, especially in packaging, waste minimisation and by harnessing the benefits of renewable energy wherever possible.

In addition, our R&D programmes and Innovation Vouchers are designed to encourage companies, both large and small, to invest in science-based innovation with the universities and further education colleges in coming up with initiatives that will enhance their international competitiveness through more efficient production and new product development to meet emerging market trends.

Development of strong networks between primary producers, processors and the local science base will promote collaborative working and the dissemination of innovation, knowledge transfer and best practice in areas that will enhance their sustainability in their impact on the environment and in business through increased competitiveness.

13

COMMENTARY northern ireland food & drink association

A year of change for food retailing 2

NIFDA Executive Director Michael Bell

014 was a year of change for the UK food retailing industry; our customers.

Consumers are placing more importance on value than ever before and intense price competition between retailers is impacting everyone.

Regardless of the market segment - economy, premium, health, convenience, own label or brand - all consumers are looking for value for money and we are seeing retailers across the board invest in price reductions. This is putting immense price pressure along the supply chain.

The challenge for us as an industry is to continue to provide consumers with food and drink products which offer freshness, taste, local provenance and integrity but at a competitive cost. As an industry, we have successfully delivered on this brief for many years now. New products are our lifeblood and they continue to be developed. Indeed CAFRE College is investing over £3m in a new food innovation facility in Cookstown and its ‘food business incubation’ unit is full. Investments of this nature, throughout the industry give our customers greater product integrity, quality, safety, taste and above all better value for money. This is what drives our success.

Our industry is susceptible to global geopolitical forces such as the Russian food ban on European foods imports, commodity prices, exchange rate movements, climate change and economic performance.

However, despite all of these challenges, it has continued to grow steadily. We were greatly encouraged that the Executive made the decision to move forward with the Agri-Food Strategy Board’s Going for Growth report in 2014. We look forward to continuing to work with government departments in implementing the various recommendations.

It is clear we are seeing major changes taking place in the competitive strategies of the major retailers, which in turn will present various challenges to our industry. It is vital that farmers, processors and retailers all make sustainable margins from the supply of food or we simply will not be able to sustain our businesses.

With our track record of commitment, innovation, ambition and resilience, I have no doubt that, with the Executive’s support, we will be able to capitalise on the agri-food sector’s potential and continue to grow into 2015 and the years ahead.

FOOD NI

Fabulous food and drink of the highest quality F

Food NI Chief Executive Michele Shirlow

8 • •Ulster 3614 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

ood NI’s slogans ‘Lashed by our rains, bashed by our winds’ and ‘Grown here, not flown here’ are reflective of the sustainability of our members’ businesses. We now have more than 130 producers in our directory. Their fabulous food and drink is of the highest quality, but it’s also among the biggest contributors to economic growth in Northern Ireland. People like the Quail family in Banbridge rear their cattle on their farm and then sell their meat in their butchers’ shop in the town. Roy Lyttle is Northern Ireland’s biggest supplier of leeks to Tesco. They’re grown in the unique microclimate on the Ards Peninsula, proof that the multinationals want and need quality, reliable local suppliers.

In 2014, we saw a massive growth in membership from artisan producers like Passion Preserved chutneys and relishes, Flossie’s Fudge and Go Yeast. Street food is a growing trend. We’re already planning Balmoral 2015 and, yet again, we’re having to increase our allocation of these spaces. More and more people care about where their food is coming from, and they’re growing more adventurous in their choices. Broughgammon’s goat meat kebabs and the Krazi Baker’s potato apple breads are selling like hot cakes.

Many of our members have been successful

in landing bigger contracts and expanding their businesses. Milgro Onions are now in Tesco.

Cloughbane Farm Shop has also extended their range in that store. Heavenly Tasty Organics unique brand of baby food is in SuperValu stores across Ireland. All of these products, and many more, are sustainable in that they are grown and produced on the island, and the companies employ local people.

The Great Taste Awards held judging sessions in Belfast for the first time in 2014, and Northern Ireland outperformed every other region in the UK. Many of the awardwinners are Food NI members and they gathered at the Invest NI Meet the Buyers event in the Europa in October. Bruce Langlands from Harrods said his team were very interested in a number of products including chocolates, baked goods and cheese.

The Selfridges buyers were also impressed with cheeses including Kearney Blue and Dart Mountain Cheese.

We want our members to keep winning the awards and we, in turn, will do our utmost to spread the word and bring them more business.

Key to that will be an even bigger and better Balmoral Show. We’re also busy planning for the biggie. 2016 will be The Year of Food in Northern Ireland.

COMMENTARY ULSTER FARMERS’ UNION

Seeking a single, integrated supply chain 2

UFU President Ian Marshall

014 has been a difficult year for farmers across Northern Ireland. Increasing market volatility and falling farm gate prices across all sectors has kept farm businesses under pressure throughout the year. Decisions were finally made in relation to CAP reform and, while the reformed CAP will benefit some, there are many who are facing significant loses. Some beef farmers will be hit particularly hard and the UFU has been consistently calling for a support mechanism to be introduced to ensure the future of Northern Ireland’s beef industry and suckler production in particular.

With the changes to farmer subsidies, it has never been more important that we have a single integrated supply chain that delivers profitability to all partners, including farmers. The NI AgriFood Strategy Board’s Going for Growth report highlighted an integrated supply chain as a key theme and it is vital that their recommendations for the growth and development of Northern Ireland’s agri-food industry are implemented.

The current farm gate price volatility experienced across all sectors is unsustainable and undoubtedly will have an impact on how a farm business operates or if it continues to operate at all. Encouragingly though, consumers

are increasingly concerned about the provenance of the food they eat and many want to buy local products. The popularity of farm shops in local areas also demonstrates farmers’ initiative to take products directly to consumers and that the demand for locally sourced food items is there. A well functioning single supply chain is of benefit to the entire agri-food industry as it ensures the viability of farm businesses and allows processors and retailers to have the consistent supply of the local, high quality raw materials their consumers demand.

Looking forward, there are very real opportunities for Northern Ireland to expand and grow our agri-food industry and to tap into new markets. We do face significant challenges but, in spite of this, there is an appetite in the farming community to grow and develop farm businesses. In recent years, our industry has consistently been a driver of Northern Ireland’s economy, growing while other industries have stagnated. We want to see this continue but the reality facing farmers needs to be recognised.

With the challenges posed by the newly reformed CAP, farmers will be looking for a better return from the market in order to keep their businesses viable.

MUSGRAVE RETAIL PARTNERS

Developing and enhancing its offer O

Musgrave Retail Partners Acting Manager Director Damian McCarney

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

ver the last year, despite the significant challenges and change in the overall grocery market, Musgrave Retail Partners (MRPNI) has made real progress with our vision to continually develop and enhance the offer which our SuperValu, Centra and Mace retail partners provide right across Northern Ireland.

Consumer shopping habits continue to change and this change is at a pace never before experienced in the grocery market.

Now, more than ever before, it is vital that we listen to our consumers and continue to develop our brands and offer to consistently meet their needs. As well as listening to our consumers, we have also worked closely with our representative Retailer Councils in shaping the offer enhancements which we have delivered this year. Some of the highlights were: • We have continued to work hard on delivering a promotional programme which is different and better.

• We have invested both time and money in making our ranges more relevant to the changing consumer.

• Our own brand ranges have again gone from strength to strength delivering double digit sales growth for the third year in a row.

The new premium SuperValu Signature Taste range was launched this year and has been a real success for our consumers.

• We invested heavily in milk pricing earlier in the year to provide our retailers with a very competitive offer for the consumer whilst maintaining market leading margins for our retail partners.

• We worked closely with those retailers with off-licences to enhance their offer and execution for their consumers and again delivered sales growth ahead of the market.

• We held our first Food to Go Exhibition in Armagh in September which was a huge success for both our retail partners and our suppliers. The exhibition was the culmination of the first phase of work on Food to Go which again has driven strong sales growth, particularly within our Centra brand.

Looking forward, 2015 will undoubtedly be another year of challenge. The consumer is very clearly shopping little and often, and we believe that our three brands are ideally placed to take advantage of this shift in consumer behaviour. We also recognise that the market will continue to evolve at a pace and we are planning significant brand and offer development work in 2015 and beyond.

15

COMMENTARY EMERSONS ARMAGH

Investing in a sustainable future A

Emersons owner Gavin Emerson

s Armagh’s longest established, familyrun supermarket, we are ringing in the New Year by continuing with our £2m expansion plans.

2015 is the year which will see the new Emersons store open in the historic city centre of Armagh. It will house the city’s Post Office, The Wine Store and Uluru Bar & Grill. It’s an expansion which will create a sustainable shopping experience for people living in Armagh and for visitors to the city.

Celebrating 125 years this year means Emersons have certainly been doing something right all along. The brand has survived recessions and the emergence of big chain supermarkets.

Emersons, which employs 110 people, was first opened by Henry Alexander Emerson in 1889. It was then passed to his son Newton Emerson then on to his son Henry and now myself.

Armagh city centre is a special place for us so the expansion is our way of investing in the city centre’s future. We are always looking at ways to reinvest so we can build on our achievements to date, expand our services for

our customers and build a sustainable future which not only creates jobs but also puts life back into our high street.

We have survived recessions which are bleak as many businesses are forced to close their doors. Everyone feels this struggle but what is clear is the importance of local people supporting local businesses. If people do this we create a sustainable shopping experience, we enhance the centre of our city and we create jobs which will be of great economic and social benefit.

We are celebrating 125 years this year so showing our customers in Armagh that we are reinvesting in our business, to enhance their customer experience, is very important to us.

The expansion gives the people of Armagh a family-friendly supermarket to shop in. It’s about creating sustainability on the high street. It’s about creating an easy shopping experience -one where shoppers are encouraged to continue to support local producers and local families.

Emersons will be introducing a range of initiatives over 2015 which will demonstrate how much its customers matter.

HENDERSON RETAIL

Embracing change during a challenging year A

Henderson Retail Director Mark McCammond

8 • •Ulster 3616 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

s the retail sector in Northern Ireland continues to evolve, we have been evolving alongside it and, in some cases, leading the change. 2014 has been a year of competitive trading and not without its challenges in a crowded marketplace.

That said, we have achieved very positive like-for-like growth throughout the year at almost +3%.

One of our proudest successes of 2014 is the growth seen in our larger format EUROSPAR stores. We have managed to create a whole new niche in the convenience market, one that directly challenges other supermarkets, and our customers have embraced the concept.

As our Fresh Team continues to source products from Northern Irish farmers, bakers, growers and suppliers, the interest in our SPAR brand products has increased.

We’re listening to the demand from our customers and the wider market to tailor our offering to the respective community and location of each store and as a result, 75% of our fresh products are now sourced on the island of Ireland.

2014 also saw us investing heavily in retail format development and our store portfolio, expanding our company-owned

‘fleet’ to 77 across Northern Ireland, and we’re seeing strong commercial returns that are allowing us to invest even further.

Two of the biggest challenges for us have been the looming Tobacco Display ban, which enters its final stage in 2015, and also the ongoing fuel laundering problem in Northern Ireland.

We have implemented the new tobacco planogram early so that everyone can get used to the changes and anticipate any challenges before April 2015. The fuel laundering isn’t a problem that we can fix ourselves, however whilst we are pleased to hear that HMRC recently dismantled a diesel laundering plant, we ask that the Government does more to provide resource to support HMRC officials in protecting the legitimate fuel trade.

While we have seen overall Group success, we’re made up of many passionate individuals - like Stewart Harkin from EUROSPAR Cullybackey and Irene Hunter from EUROSPAR Dromara who both won UK Sales Assistant of the Year Awards.

With people like this at the consumerfacing side of the business, I’ll always remain optimistic about the future of the business.

COMMENTARY federation of small businesses

Re-educating consumers to spend locally N

FSB NI Policy Chair Wilfred Mitchell

orthern Ireland’s largest business organisation, The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has welcomed reports this month of a major shift in shopping behaviours as in keeping with their hugely successful Keep Trade Local campaign and participation within Small Business Saturday.

A study by the Good Housekeeping Institute, released earlier this month, has revealed that shoppers this year, throughout the UK, are moving away from the traditional once-weekly large shop at supermarket chains towards multiple smaller shopping trips based on price and quality.

Figures reveal that Christmas will have little impact upon this shift in behaviour as only three out of 10 shoppers were planning to do a single ‘big Christmas shop’, whilst conversely the majority of those surveyed stated their intention to spread their shopping across a number of grocery formats, incorporating smaller and independent grocery stores.

Food prices have fallen for the first time

in eight years in response to the shifting shopping behaviours of families. This has been due to competition extending beyond the supermarket giants to also incorporate smaller grocery and food supply businesses.

These figures help reinforce that the greengrocer and the butcher are not always more expensive than the supermarket, and they offer a personalised service that you seldom can get in a big supermarket.

Campaigns such as Small Business Saturday, and FSB’s all year round Keep Trade Local campaign have had huge success in re-educating shoppers as to the benefit of spending their pound locally.

The greengrocer and the butcher are not always more expensive than the supermarket.”

tesco ni

£44.5 investment in local stores T

Tesco NI Operations Director Brendan Guidera

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

esco Northern Ireland enjoyed another very positive year.

We now have 56 stores following the opening of a new Extra store in Banbridge and three Express stores, two in Belfast and another in Lisburn.

There was an investment of £44.5m in stores here with around £35m of that being spent on the Bridgewater Park Extra store in Banbridge.

A £2.3m makeover transformed our Knocknagoney store into Northern Ireland’s first next generation Extra. The store features a Virgin travel desk, Beautyworld and a phone shop, reflecting a growing trend for consumers to do their shopping under the one roof.

The opening of the Banbridge Extra created 252 new jobs, while the Knocknagoney refresh generated an extra 32 jobs, and the three Express stores created around 30 jobs.

And we’ve just taken on another 1,186 staff, mainly on part-time hours, right across our NI network, while 267 existing staff got more hours. This means Tesco now employs over 9,000 people here.

Our support for local suppliers continues to gather pace and we introduced several

new lines this year. We are now spending almost £600m per annum on Northern Ireland food and drink, on more than 1,200 product lines, supporting 90 suppliers.

A new initiative we introduced was local food markets in our stores which enable producers to interact with customers.

It’s part of the ongoing Tesco Taste NI campaign aimed at supporting local food and its producers.

Other highlights included sponsoring the Mullahead Ploughing Match in Co Armagh and the Balmoral Show as well as welcoming over 20,000 people to our own Taste NI Festival in Belfast, which is an impressive urban showcase for local produce. We also had a successful in-store Harvest Festival supported by potato firm Wilson’s Country, veg company Gilfresh Produce and apple grower McCann’s.

On the CSR front, we helped local charities raise tens of thousands of pounds.

And in November we celebrated raising £500,000 in Northern Ireland for Diabetes UK since a partnership between the two organisations started in March 2013.

We are looking forward to another great year in 2015. There are plans to open more stores and to refresh existing stores.

17

COMMENTARY jti

Don’t wait for the display ban, be prepared T

JTI Head of Communications Jeremy Blackburn

he implementation of the retail display ban represents the biggest upheaval the tobacco category has witnessed in recent years. Whilst it may seem like a long way off, our message is simple: don’t wait for the ban to happen, be prepared.

In a restricted market environment the key principles of category management will be more important than ever before.

To help, JTI has developed ARTIST, which stands for Availability, Range, Training, Innovation, Sales and Technology - a simple six step guide to maximising tobacco profits. Full details about ARTIST can be found on jtiadvance.co.uk, a unique trade website recently launched by JTI to support its trade partners, which provides updates on legislation, downloadable training documents and a host of useful business tools.

In the run up to April, it is important that planograms remain consistent as staff needs to be familiar with the layout, particularly as it is behind closed doors - this is one way to ensure that queuing time is kept to a minimum. Retailers must see this as

an opportunity to maintain a strong range and portfolio going into a display ban environment and beyond.

JTI has been preparing by investing heavily in its people and its brands in order to best help Northern Ireland’s smaller store retailers remain successful now, during the transition and in the new operating environment.

In a restricted market environment the key principles of category management will be more important than ever before.”

asda

Standing ready for retail changes A

Asda NI Senior Director George Rankin

8 • •Ulster 3618 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

s Asda approaches its 50th anniversary in 2015 - and its 10th in Northern Ireland - we see the retail environment changing at an unprecedented rate. The digital revolution has forever altered the way the world works, interacts and most importantly for us, how the world shops.

It’s essential that, as a leading retailer, Asda moves with the times and starts looking even further ahead to what the shopping experience of the future might look like.

The online grocery market has doubled in the past five years and will at least double again in the next five, so it is clear that our organisation’s future depends on our ability to get ahead of the wave of advancing technology and stand ready to maximise the opportunities these new tools offer. It’s also important to remember that people are at the heart of our business - they allow us to take hold of these opportunities and help us make innovative retail into a reality.

Our approach isn’t just online or offline but an ‘across the line’ approach which will seamlessly combine real bricks and mortar stores with virtual shopping experiences to make shopping with Asda the most

accessible and convenient retail experience in the country.

We serve thousands of Click and Collect customers in Northern Ireland and uptake for the service is growing phenomenally.

In Northern Ireland, we were delighted to see a 533% growth in uptake of our Click and Collect services last year – the largest increase of any UK region.

We have ambitious plans to grow our reach even further in the coming years and this means more bricks and mortar stores here as well as further growing our home delivery service and increasing the number of places Click and Collect can be accessed from.

Services like home delivery, Click and Collect and our same day Click and Collect service are great news for our customers as it makes shopping with Asda the most convenient experience possible. But this has also been great news for Northern Ireland Plc as we’ve created 230 new jobs to service our ecommerce business in NI. In 2015 we will continue to innovate and invest in our business to deliver the best possible offering to customers and communities across Northern Ireland.

COMMENTARY glens of antrim potatoes

Meeting challenges with opportunities F

Glens of Antrim Potatoes Managing Director Michael McKillop

or all of us at Glens of Antrim Potatoes, 2014 was a year that presented plenty of challenges but also created many opportunities.

The agri-food sector continued to play an important role in the Northern Ireland economy in 2014, and as a business, it was crucial for us to not only innovate but to respond to changing demand in order to remain competitive.

In recent years, potato consumption has been on the decline, with many consumers opting for what they believe to be more convenient dinner options such as ready meals, pasta or rice. As a business, we must be prepared to meet this challenge head on, so we’ve invested in new product development - in both packaging and potato varieties – and we launched a ‘Microsteam’ range to appeal to the convenience market. Thanks to our ongoing potato variety development programme, we are now at the forefront of the Irish potato market.

Earlier this year, we renewed our sponsorship of UTV’s Lesser Spotted Ulster programme. The sponsorship has always

proved to be a huge success in terms of brand affinity, not least because many of our customers are big fans of the show. It has also been an excellent way for us to reach a wider audience.

The success of our ‘Irish Lumper’ potato range was another real highlight for the business. We first reintroduced the Lumper to the market in 2011 after it had virtually disappeared during the potato famine of the 1840s. The launch not only struck a chord with the media and our customers but helped us secure extra lines with Marks & Spencer, and we were delighted when we were inundated with requests for the Lumper again this year. By taking a creative approach to new product development, we’ve been able to remain competitive and we plan to continue on this track over the coming years.

Looking forward, 2015 is set to be a busy year for Glens of Antrim Potatoes. We remain committed to identifying opportunities to improve our offering and aim to deliver the best possible range of potatoes to our customers throughout the coming year.

NISA

Supporting local suppliers and good causes N

Nisa NI Sales Manager Pat Leneghan

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

isa has enjoyed a very successful year in Northern Ireland. Margins, like every other year, are under pressure. Nisa understands that, and strives to pass on the benefit of its scale to its members. It has also increased its activity on ‘stop you in your tracks’ consumer deals to drive footfall into its members’ stores.

Nisa also acknowledges that its members need to increasingly reflect the local nature of their business by continuing to support local suppliers and good causes. This is something which Nisa is giving particular focus to in 2015 to ensure it remains a point of difference for its stores.

The most documented development within the last year has to be the exit of Costcutter which brought with it challenges for both companies. However, this was something which Nisa strategically planned for to ensure it caused minimal disruption to the business.

This resulted in many retailers deciding to continue their trading relationship with Nisa to ensure they could benefit from our buying power and excellent delivery and service levels.

The last year also saw a number of significant investments by a number of

independently-minded, entrepreneurial retailers such as the McAvoy and Emerson families in Rathfriland and Armagh respectively. It is also fantastic to see retailers investing and developing their own businesses.

Within the last year, Nisa has bolstered its team in Ireland to include a local focus on trading, IT and marketing. This will become evident in our PR and recruitment activity as Nisa looks to expand even more in Ireland.

Nisa has been very successful in the Northern Ireland market over the last five years and we see this trend continuing.

Entrepreneurial retailers like the flexibility the Nisa model offers and are increasingly attracted to it. They own and run the shops, not us. This makes for a true retail partnership where we simply don’t squeeze our members to have to buy everything from Nisa.

Independent retailers never cease to impress me with their vision and ability to interpret and deliver what their customers want. The independent sector in Northern Ireland continues to be the envy of the UK – Nisa organises frequent trips for both members and staff to visit and see the fantastic stores on offer.

19

COMMENTARY moy park

Continued growth and investment M

oy Park is now a £1.4bn business employing over 12,000 colleagues across facilities in the UK, Ireland, Holland and France. In the past year, the business achieved continued growth and we have invested in our operations, our farming base and in developing our high performing teams.

We have been delighted to receive a number of awards this year and I believe this great recognition is down to the team at Moy Park, our focus on continuous improvement and on delivering high quality, great value products for customers and consumers.

We have a really strong team of dedicated, committed people full of passion and energy – from our farmers, to our factory staff and throughout the whole company.

Moy Park was an official sponsor of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, which was an outstanding global event to be involved in.

This was a huge opportunity for the business

and gave us a platform to raise our profile on a global scale. The sponsorship, which was set up through our parent company Marfrig increased our brand awareness and saw the Moy Park brand beamed to millions of viewers across the world.

This year we launched a major expansion programme across our farming base in Northern Ireland. The programme has gone from strength to strength with construction starting on over 100 new poultry houses so far. Moy Park is well positioned for continued growth.

Following the announcement of our long-term investment plans earlier this year of £170m and the creation of over 600 jobs in Northern Ireland, we plan to continue to grow the business through investment in industry leading farming and operational facilities - ensuring that our product quality, integrity, people and food safety is amongst the best in the industry.

Moy Park Chief Executive Janet McCollum

THE CO OPERATIVE FOOD

Multi-million pound investment in stores T

The Co-Operative Food Regional Operations Manager NI Gary Mccauley

8 • •Ulster 3620 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

he market place for retailers in Northern Ireland continues to be challenging, but at The Co-operative Food we’re pushing ahead with our strategy, which includes multimillion pound investments in our stores.

Since the summer, we’ve transformed a number of our Northern Irish outlets, into a new format that makes them brighter and better, and cements their place as true hubs for their local communities.

Not only that, but towards the end of 2014 we opened a new store, when we acquired the former Mace in Lisburn Street, Hillsborough.

It became the 32nd Co-operative Food store in Northern Ireland, and we’re keen to add more.

The store transformation programme has been gathering pace, and so far we’ve invested more than £3m in refitting seven stores; two in Lisburn, and others in Belfast, Bangor, Glengormley, Ballycastle and Castlederg.

Each store has been redefined, with increased ranges of fresh produce, a focus on meal ideas and essentials, and improved in-store bakery ranges. On average, they’re delivering double-digit growth.

To be able to make such a significant investment in our Northern Irish stores really is fantastic, and the new format is proving

popular with customers. The stores are delivering real growth, not just here but in the whole UK, and helping us to achieve our ambition of becoming the UK’s number one convenience food retailer.

Our rolling programme of investing in our stores, including those in Northern Ireland, will continue into 2015.

In addition to improvements to the store environment, innovations in our own-brand ‘Loved by us’ range, plus a commitment to lowering prices on hundreds of everyday essentials under our ‘Fair and Square prices’ banner, are also contributing to growth.

As a member-owned co-operative, our newlook stores also work to establish a distinctive community connection. We are piloting dedicated colleagues, called Community Pioneers, which sees store staff with an additional remit to foster real community partnerships, from fundraising initiatives to volunteering opportunities and helping to understand and develop solutions to meet local needs.

So, while we expect conditions to remain tough for retailers, we’re confident that the wheels we’ve got in motion, and progress we’re making with our strategy, will keep us in a strong position.

COMMENTARY palmer and harvey

Offering a complete delivery solution N

P&H Operations Director Julian Streeter

o matter what size, type or location of business, Palmer and Harvey has a complete solution to suit every customer’s delivery needs.

As the UK’s number one delivered wholesaler, the company has an unrivalled network and infrastructure. Fifteen distribution centres and a fleet of 1,500 vehicles bring ambient, chilled, fresh and frozen food to every postcode, and within two hours of 90% of the population. Our tri-temperature deliveries are made six days a week, ensuring our goods arrive in the freshest condition possible for sale.

It has been a challenging year for the retail sector, in which constantly changing shopping habits demand the most innovative solutions.

We have remained adaptable, flexible and responsive.

In partnership with Costcutter Supermarkets Group, our new operating model The BuyCo has changed the commercial landscape of the convenience sector by unleashing £5bn of buying power.

We provide flexibility for every size of business and have developed expertise in small drop capability to serve a myriad of

small independent retail outlets.

We are also the chosen outsourced distributor and trusted partner of major blue chip companies. The recent expansion of our network, including our £1m investment in our new Belfast depot, now puts us in an excellent position to leverage our scale and provide benefits to all our customers through the strength of our shared network.

Our new operating model The BuyCo has changed the commercial landscape of the convenience sector by unleashing £5bn of buying power.”

costcutter

New operating model, new proposition 2

Costcutter Supermarkets Group Retailer Director Daniel Quest

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

014 was a historic year for Costcutter Supermarkets Group, and all of our members, as we moved to a new operating model. Northern Ireland was at the forefront of this, with members here the first to move to the new buy and supply system.

When we created our new operating model, we were able to start afresh and create a new proposition that offers retailers the right balance of support but also maintained the freedom that independent retailers want.

With full control of our range, pricing and promotional programme, we work with our members to ensure they have the right proposition for their store, and for their customers. In 2014 we launched our new own brand, Independent, which offers retailers a strong range across three tiers – Independent Trader, Independent and Independent Specialist – offering excellent value and great margins.

Our investment in new retailer technology and digital systems continued throughout 2014 and this remains a priority in 2015.

Our Activ Technology programme has already delivered our new order capture system, ActivOC. The new ActivHUB

provides a single point of access for all the key information and systems retailers need, such as ordering and news. New consumer websites, for all our brands, have been launched and provide a greater opportunity for retailers to promote their store. An allnew ActivCPoS system will launch in 2015 with greater functionality to drive in-store efficiencies.

There is a huge opportunity for retailers to continue the growth in convenience through 2015. By continually improving standards, offering better, more targeted promotions, and focusing on customer service independents can bring more customers instore and create increased customer loyalty.

Challenges such as the tobacco display ban should be seen as an opportunity to assess the whole store and ask whether it is being fully utilised and whether categories can be advanced to grow sales.

Fresh and food to go will continue to be key drivers and independent retailers should make sure their offer meets the demands of today’s top up shopper. A strong fresh offer, especially in meat and bakery is essential to compete.

21

COMMENTARY SUPERVALU MOIRA & DROMORE

Loyal customers prefer top-up shopping S

Supervalu Moira and Dromore owner Eddie Poole

ales have been up year-on-year in our SuperValu Moira store, and we’re very pleased with the shop’s trading in 2014. With the support of Musgrave Retail Partners, we’re delighted to have acquired our second SuperValu store in Dromore at the end of April. This has been a highlight of the past year and we’ve seen sales improving in the store since taking ownership.

Moira is now very well-established with a strong, loyal customer base and so we introduced new lines into Dromore that were selling well in Moira as both communities are similar. I’m happy to say this has led to increased sales.

The market always provides a challenge and one of the biggest threats is from multiples setting up nearby, a recent example being a major retailer opening in Banbridge, close to both of our stores. However we have found that our customers have stayed loyal as the size of the big supermarkets often puts people off, as they know what they want

and can purchase it easily and quickly at our store.

I’m optimistic for 2015 as the size of our businesses, with both shops at 8,000 square feet, are perfect for our customers’ needs.

Shopping habits are now changing with customers coming back every day to pick up bits and pieces rather than a big one-off shop but we’ve found this is a good trend for us.

We have many plans for 2015. Firstly for our shop in Dromore, we will be bringing it into the latest specification with Musgrave, making the first aisle wider and refitting the whole shop. We’re also looking at building a bigger car park at our Moira store.

The biggest barrier for next year will most likely be out-of-town planning applications but we find the personal touch goes a long way in our stores, with many customers finding no-one speaks to them in the large supermarkets. We’ll be continuing to make sure we offer this to our customers as well as always striving to provide a better service.

FOOD STANDARDS AGENCY NI

Helping industry comply with regulations 2

FSA NI Head of Standards and Dietary Health Sharon Gilmore

8 • •Ulster 3622 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

014 was a busy year - with new legislation on food and nutrition labelling coming into force at the end of the year. The FSA in Northern Ireland worked with industry and district councils to ensure they were fully compliant by the mandatory date of December 13.

Called Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 on the provision of food information to consumers (EU FIC), the majority of the new legislation’s requirements apply to pre-packed foods. Mandatory nutrition declarations for most pre-packed foods come into force at the end of 2016, and the FSA will again be providing information and support on how to meet these new requirements.

The Food Information Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2014 (FIR 2014) enable district councils in Northern Ireland to enforce the EU FIC. The new European law replaces current rules, though it does maintain many of the original core objectives of previous regulations but also introduces new requirements.

To support and assist food business operators, manufacturers, retailers, caterers and enforcement officers to implement these

new EU rules, we have published a summary guidance document.

This comprehensive document provides informal, non-statutory advice on how to meet the new obligations and should be read in conjunction with the EU FIC and the FIR 2014. EU FIC details the information which must be available to consumers when they buy food and how it should be presented.

The Regulations are designed to make food labelling easier for consumers to understand. A number of new key areas to be aware of in the new legislation are changes to how allergen information appears on labels of pre-packed foods and the new requirement of providing allergen information on foods sold loose and in catering settings. There is also a minimum font size specified for mandatory information on food packages, a mandatory requirement for nutrition information by 2016 and country of origin information required for meat of swine, sheep, goats and poultry by April 2015.

Full details around mandatory information, business responsibilities and enforcement can be found on the FSA’s website at: http://www.food.gov.uk/sites/ default/files/fir-guidance2014.pdf.

COMMENTARY NORTHERN SNACK FOODS

New and exciting strategies planned for 2015 W

Northern Snack Foods Sales Manager Martin McClinton

e at Northern Snack Foods (NSF) recognise we are still in challenging trading times but, due to the expansive range of our portfolio and further opportunities, decided to invest in people and vehicles to ensure top quality service in both product and delivery service.

We developed a further ‘sales area’ in 2014, and backed this up with merchandisers. With great brands, such as Hunky Dorys, Velvet Crunch and King Crisps, we wanted to ensure they were available in every store across the Province. Our team have worked extremely hard to drive the brands.

With competitive pricing and standout packaging, our brands are available in all of the UK multiples as well as symbols and independents in NI, and we also recognised that consumers are a ‘savvy’ lot and, with this in mind, developed packs in various sizes and price points to give our consumers even more choice and great flavours.

2014 saw the redesign of our very successful Velvet Crunch packs and minor changes to the flavouring, and we have seen tremendous interest and growth. In the premium section of the category, O’Donnells

hand cooked crisps have made massive progress with two additional flavours Jalapeno & Sour Cream, and Hickory BBQ, available in 50g and 125g sharing; all O’Donnells crisps are now Gluten Free. We also made the decision to use shelf ready packaging on all of our sharing range, and this will roll out to our multi-pack range in the coming months.

From February 2015, NSF will sell and distribute KP Meanies and KP Rancheros in impulse, sharing and multipack; this range of products has been in this market for many years, and we will endeavour to grow it even further.

Hunky Dorys will have a new and entertaining ad campaign mid year and we hope, as ever, that it engages our target audience and brings a bit of fun into marketing. The campaign will coincide with major promotions and giveaways to some of our lucky customers.

On a personal note, I am really looking forward to the new and exciting strategies we will be using in 2015, and working very closely with our full team and all of our customers.

LIDL NORTHERN IRELAND

Quality, choice and price drive growth 2

Lidl NI Sales Operations Executive Paul Gibson

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

014 has been a hugely successful year for Lidl Northern Ireland. Not only did we celebrate 15 years in business but we now have 38 stores across Northern Ireland and recently opened our first city centre store on High Street, Belfast. Highlighting our commitment to Northern Ireland, 2014 marked our plans to invest a minimum of £30m in an expansion and modernisation programme over the next 12 months.

While it may have been considered a tough year for the food retail industry, at Lidl we’re delighted to report strong growth in 2104 which we believe is the result of a winning customer proposition of high quality local products, great choice and competitive prices. At Lidl, we are very aware that household incomes are under pressure so we constantly strive to offer great value without compromising on the quality of our products.

In 2014, we set ourselves the challenge of ensuring our branded products rivalled wellknown brands. Following independent taste tests, we’re delighted to note that consumers favour our products or consider them on a par with well-known branded alternatives.

This year also saw noticeable changes in food shopping habits in that consumers are more price savvy than ever and will make the effort to seek out the most competitive price.

At Lidl, we’re confident that we have designed our model to meet consumers’ ever changing needs by leading the way on price and quality.

Reinforcing our roots in Northern Ireland has been a huge focus for 2014 and will continue to be in 2015. We have always supported local and, as a result, we work closely with over 35 local suppliers and plan to continue to nurture these relationships.

A community-driven campaign called ‘Lidl Surprises’ really brought our brand to the heart of local communities across Northern Ireland and made a positive difference. Over the course of six months, a dedicated Lidl Surprises team visited over 450 community groups, reached more than 30 towns inviting people to sample our products handing out gifts to the general public and carrying out random acts of kindness. The campaign was so warmly received, we hope to continue it in 2015 and make a difference in communities across Northern Ireland.

23

COMMENTARY SAINSBURY’S

NI has highest customer service score T

Sainsbury’s NI Regional Operations Manager Nigel Macaulay

he market has been challenging and competitive, but we believe that we have some terrific plans in place which will take us through the next 12 months and beyond.

This year, we are focused on serving our customers through multiple channels and we’ve made significant investments in our existing network of stores. We’ve had re-fits in Armagh and Sprucefield and extended our online network to our Ballymena and Newry stores. We now offer grocery home delivery in five of the six Northern counties.

Our colleagues are at the heart of what we do and we’ve kept a number of colleagues we took on over Christmas. We are delighted to offer them the opportunity to join many of our personal development programmes. We also had a very exciting colleague story last year, when one of our online team in Ballymena had to make a special delivery of his own when his wife unexpectedly went into labour. Northern Ireland has achieved the best customer

service score for any region across the entire Sainsbury’s network, which is a fantastic tribute to the great people we have working with us.

Our stores here have also been doing their bit for charity and have collectively raised almost £50,000 for Comic and Sport Relief in the last two years. Our Active Kids Scheme has also seen nearly £2m of sports, cookery and gardening equipment delivered to local schools since it began in 2005.

Looking ahead to next year, we believe that the market is continuing to evolve as shopping habits change. Here at Sainsbury’s, we know our customers better than anyone else so we’re adapting to these changes to ensure we can offer our customers what they want, when they want it, and we’re excited for the year ahead.

We’re excited for the year ahead.”

SAVAGE & WHITTEN

Onwards and upwards for wholesaler L

Savage & Whitten Managing Director & Today’s Group Chairman Mark Windebank

8 • •Ulster 3624 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

eading independent wholesaler Savage & Whitten of Newry has origins dating back to 1918, and today showcases advanced wholesaling practices and turns over £65m with double digit annual growth.

Turnover has rocketed and the team are planning another expansion of premises – this time to a purpose-built, 80,000-squarefoot warehouse due to be opened in June this year to serve a retailer base that spans 100 miles north and south of Newry.

When it comes to fascia stores, Savage & Whitten has over 100 Today’s stores in Northern Ireland and five south of the border. My team are enthusiastic believers in the fascia concept - so much so that we have invested in four shops of our own. We use these as test beds across a full range of disciplines including staff training, category management, promotions, POS and signage, margin growth and advertising. Each store is treated exactly the same as the independently-owned Today’s stores, and the management team uses information gained to benefit all retailers.

In 2014, we have placed a major investment in our Re-Scan EPOS system

which not only saves our retailers up to 10 hours a week but also frees up more time to be spent on the shop floor with customers.

The fully-integrated system improves margins, pricing accuracy and ordering, while increasing profitability.

S&W expansion plans over the coming years are to continue to grow all aspects of the business including our Retail Symbol and Wholesale businesses throughout the island of Ireland. Traditionally, 25% of Savage & Whitten sales come from south of the border – it’s now as quick to deliver to Dublin as it is to Belfast. Over the next four to five years, we are planning steady expansion in the south and will be growing Today’s fascia stores from five to 100.

2014 was a difficult year for the sector and the year ahead will also provide its challenges with competition increasing between wholesalers to secure the business of independent retailers. However, I believe we are well placed to deliver the needs of both our retailers and their customers in the year ahead due to our continual investment and the support of the Today’s Group backed by £5.7bn of buying power.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Health & Safety – Free mentoring for SMEs T

he food and drink industry in all its diversity is a vitally important sector of the Northern Ireland economy. All employers in the industry must by law make appropriate provision for health and safety, and the larger employers will generally have the resources to ensure that they have access to appropriate expertise. But what about smaller companies, for example, involved in baking, vegetable packing or catering and employing anything from one or two upwards? Legislation on health and safety in general does not make distinctions based on the size of an organisation. In 2004 the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland through the Department for Enterprise Trade and Investment set up the separate organisation Health and Safety Works NI (HSWNI).

Small businesses almost by definition are resource poor and the overriding principal of HSWNI since inception was that it was free, confidential and without any enforcement dimension. Since then, HSWNI has helped more than 2,000 small businesses ensure that they had the basics covered. Businesses have come to it for start up help, or to seek re-assurance that their existing arrangements were adequate. This has included businesses

that had been operating for a considerable time without anything in place covering health and safety.

The main risks in this industry involve falls, machinery, transport and manual handling.

The consequences of an accident for a small firm can be serious. Apart from pain and suffering for the individual concerned, there is a severe financial penalty involved in losing a member of the workforce, even for a short time. And, in the event of serious injury or even fatality the resultant investigation and possible legal sanction could have catastrophic circumstances. Businesses cannot afford to ignore the issue. HSWNI is hosting a seminar for the industry on February 18, (see advert).

The seminar will present some straightforward

information on what businesses need to do as a priority and aims to dispel any myths about basic health and safety requirements being too complicated or expensive for small firms to consider. As well, attendees will have time for questions relating to their own particular business or area of concern.

There will be opportunity to arrange a one-to-one advisory consultation with an experienced HSWNI adviser. This is free, confidential and without obligation. Why would you not take advantage?

Even if you cannot make it to the seminar, check the HSWNI website at: www.healthandsafetyworksni.gov.uk.

You can make an appointment with an adviser using the contact details provided.

25

RETAIL PROPERTY

Food for commercial property thought

By Robert Watson, Director, Osborne King Commercial Property Consultants

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upermarket shopping took off in the UK in the 1960s, revolutionising the way people shopped for groceries. Over the years the format evolved with the addition of fuel retailing and, more recently, a range of nonfoodstuffs, principally clothes and electrical goods. Another revolution in the way we shop for food is underway and having a profound effect on both the existing supermarket model and demand for retailing space. For decades supermarket operators built increasingly larger stores at highly accessible, edge-of-town locations offering multiple, competitively priced product lines, free car parking and fuel sales. In recent years, the “big four”, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda and Morrison’s, have dominated the retail sector accounting for over 40% of total retail sales in the UK. Supermarkets here typically comprise 50,000–70,000 sq ft although Tesco in particular has been upsizing in recent years culminating in the opening of its Craigavon store which extends to approximately 113,000 sq ft. However, changing shopping patterns have all but ended demand for new supermarket space challenging the viability of the 100,000 sq ft-plus superstore.

Consumers are now thriftier and the big weekly shop has shrunk. Instead we are topping up during the week in a number of different outlets with discounters Iceland and Lidl significant beneficiaries. Certainly Lidl has upped its game in terms of quality and market perception, attracting shoppers across the socio-economic spectrum and rendering the snobbish view of Lidl as solely for households on a budget ‘old hat’. In contrast to the ‘big three’ represented locally, Lidl has expanded its portfolio recently opening its 38th store in High Street, Belfast. Typically Lidl occupies units of 10,000–12,000 sq ft and is mainly the only food retailer in this size bracket, leaving the company in a strong negotiating position when bidding for properties or sites to accommodate its property model. Whilst Aldi has not committed to opening a store here, it would not surprise me if it did so in the future.

The rapid growth of on-line shopping for electrical and high-tech goods is well established and is one of the reasons why 26

the 100,000 sq ft-plus superstore is past its sell-by date. Increasingly, we are doing our big food shop on-line and having it delivered to the house or using ‘click & collect’ schemes.

However convenient this may be for the consumer, the fees we pay for home delivery don’t come close to covering the cost of this service; supermarket operators are effectively providing a subsidy in order to retain customers.

As this trend inevitably increases, supermarket operators will need less retail space and seek to cut costs by servicing home delivery from non-retail units where rent and rates are much cheaper. In parts of England, principally around London, Tesco has already opened a number of ‘dark’ stores. Although the term has a somewhat menacing edge, these are non-retail warehouses on industrial estates servicing Tesco’s local on-line business. The benefits are obvious; the property operating cost of a ‘dark’ store may be a third that of a retail store. Interestingly, just recently, Tesco announced the closure of 43 unprofitable stores across the UK and surprisingly some will be convenience stores. Although the locations have not been revealed, and there is no suggestion any are in Northern Ireland, it remains a possibility.

Increasingly, we are doing our big food shop online and having it delivered to the house using ‘click & collect’ schemes.”

Tesco is also shelving plans to open a further 49 new stores including planned new developments at Carryduff and Armagh.

The ‘space race’ has well and truly ended.

There have been no similar proposals from

RETAIL PROPERTY Sainsbury’s and Asda but some rationalisation of their estate cannot be ruled out.

The other major beneficiaries of top-up shopping are convenience stores, which are primarily located in town centres and neighbourhood schemes and also on filling station sites fronting major arterial roads to catch us on our morning and evening commutes. While they mainly target the basket or top-up shopper, the trend towards adding complementary in-store amenities such as post offices, hot food counters and butchery franchises is growing.

The Henderson and Musgrave groups dominate the convenience market locally.

Henderson, trading under the Vivo, Spar and Eurospar brands, services over 400 outlets whilst the Musgrave Group operates the Supervalu, Centra and Mace brands servicing over 250 outlets across the province.

Costcutter and Nisa make up the other well-known brands. Competition in this sector for well-located, high-performing sites is fierce and as well as sustaining strong property values, it is not unusual to see six and seven-figure premiums being paid for goodwill, fixtures and fittings.

While the big supermarket brands have also identified convenience shopping as a growth area, Tesco is the only one to have invested in this sector in Northern Ireland and now has 18 trading convenience outlets with more in the pipeline. Effectively the company is reintroducing the grocery shop back into urban centres and that can only be a good thing for the viability and vitality of these centres which have suffered badly throughout the recession. Sainsbury’s and Asda have not yet entered the local convenience store sector, but that cannot be ruled out given an increased focus on their convenience business.

As consumers, we are forcing food retailers to rethink their business models and property portfolios. There is no doubt that supermarkets will remain our primary destination for grocery and household staples, but they will have to work harder to retain our loyalty. Grocery shopping is becoming ‘multi-channel’ and offering us myriad options to spend money in these mega businesses.

We can also expect to see major supermarkets offering additional services including banking, optometry, leisure, recipe and lifestyle advice to attract us in-store. The discounters will continue to increase market share although a concerted effort on behalf of the big supermarket operators may limit their growth.

Convenience shopping will remain a key option for consumers, and if improvements made in the quality of produce, value and range of services are maintained, this sector is likely to expand in Northern Ireland. Indeed, we may reach saturation point; particularly if Sainsbury’s and Asda enter the convenience market, however, we are not there yet.

27

ADVERTORIAL

Join the

Cat Club

Mackle Petfoods expands its popular cat food range

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at Club has a proven sales record in the Northern Irish market since its re-launch back in August. The popular cat food range has experienced excellent growth, driven by the introduction of its New Poultry Selection Chunks in Gravy 6 Pack. The new Chunks in Gravy 6 Pack complements the current Variety Chunks in Jelly 6 and 12 Packs, offering the customer a high quality product at value for money pricing.

Pleasing our fussy feline friends is paramount so, as part of the re-launch, new improved formulations have been introduced across the range. Cat Club has improved the quality and palatability of the product, using high quality Irish meats that are fully traceable from farm to can. The natural meaty chunks in appetising Jelly and Gravy have all the nourishment and essential vitamins and minerals needed for all-round good health and lively energy. So consumers know that they are feeding their cats a tasty, nutritious meal they’ll love.

And the proof isn’t just in the tin! A particularly charming video on Cat Club’s Facebook page proves just how much cats really do love their Cat Club. This sharable little video is just one element of promotional activity that will bolster the brand in the coming months. Together with digital content, new products and a packaging redesign, Cat Club is sure to continue to make waves in the pet food sector. Its success is testament to yet another quality product from Mackle Petfoods whose philosophy is to put pets first.

Check out the cat video on Cat Club’s Facebook page: facebook.com/catclubcatfood.

“Cats love their Cat Club!”

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Cat Club Cat Food

204705 Cat Club REWARD FP-UG.indd 1

Cats love their...

15/01/2015 11:18

SUSTAINABLE STORE PROFILE

Musgrave highlights its green credentials A new SuperValu in Crossgar, operated by local businessman Gabriel Bell, reflects Musgrave Retail Partners’ focus on sustainable store design which is better for the environment and retailers’ bottom line.

Gabriel Bell is pictured, front, with MRPNI Acting Managing Director Damian McCarney and SuperValu Sales Director Nigel Maxwell.

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ustainability is a major focus for a new store, SuperValu Crossgar, which opened its doors in Co Down last September, creating 35 jobs in the area. The store is operated by local businessman Gabriel Bell in partnership with Musgrave Retail Partners (MRPNI), which supports the independent retail brand SuperValu.

“With the new SuperValu store in Crossgar, we have focused on energy efficiency as a priority. This not only is better for the environment, but also helps lower running costs for the retailer and in turn, keeps prices low for customers,” says Geoff Johnston, SuperValu Senior Regional Manager.

Energy efficiency is a key area of focus and differentiation for the store in terms of refrigeration and LED lighting, with sustainability messages displayed within the store.

New LED lighting has been used in all of the retail areas including the forecourt canopy, retail space, signage and stock room.

LED lights have also replaced standard fluorescent fittings in the refrigeration cabinets with external LED lighting on the photocell sensors.

High spec. remote refrigeration cabinets have been installed with LED lighting, EC fans and glass doors that are fitted to the prepack/provisions/dairy run, which is connected 3630• Ulster Grocer | JANUARY 2011

to a central high temperature digital pack system.

There is a new plug-in low energy wall and wall freezer units with LED lighting and glass doors. All of the in-store island chill units are low energy plug-in style and there is a new high efficiency over door heater. The main store signage and the EMO fuel signage have LED back lit panels and sustainability messages are highly visible throughout the store.

The Bell family has a strong local history, trading on the Belfast Road site for 80 years, since 1935 when Gabriel’s grandfather ran a Sustainability messages are displayed throughout the store.

cattle and poultry exporting business. This family tradition will continue with a further emphasis on sustainability through the store’s support of local produce, suppliers and the community.

The shop is designed to accentuate the store’s fresh convenience offering, including exclusive ‘Prepared By’ ranges and its wide range of services including a butchery, deli and hot food bar; the store also has parking for over 70 vehicles.

Describing the opening as, “a historic day for me and my family, opening for business on the family site where it all began 80 years ago,” Gabriel said: “With MRPNI’s support and investment, I am confident this new store will provide the quality service, produce and value for money to the community who have been so loyal through the years.”

MRPNI Acting Managing Director, Damian McCarney, said: “We are delighted to help Gabriel officially open his new state-of-the-art SuperValu store. This new 6,000-square-foot SuperValu store and filling station represents a significant investment for MRPNI in Crossgar with the creation of large number of jobs and a focus on providing a different and better service to the local community. With the store’s key location on the main road between Downpatrick and Belfast, it will provide an important service to passing trade as well as the local community.”

MRPNI supports over 250 independent SuperValu, Centra and Mace retail stores in Northern Ireland, with a combined turnover in excess of £600m, and is part of the Musgrave Group – partner to more than 3,500 entrepreneurial retailers and food service professionals in the UK, Ireland and Spain.

STAR STORES

Excellence in grocery retailing Symbol groups and multiple retailers have nominated shops standing out from the crowded retail market as ‘star stores’.

COSTCUTTER CLOUGHMILLS: REFURBISHMENT BOOSTING TRADE

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ostcutter Cloughmills opened in 2013, a week before Christmas, and has worked on its range throughout the year, adding new departments of retail which it didn’t trade in before.

“2014 has been a good and interesting year with no lows which I can think of,” says Richard Moore, proprietor of the store. “We are trading up year-on-year, and we feel this is due to a site refurbishment rather than any other trend which may be occurring in retail.”

The refurbishment almost doubled floor space, enabling additions to the shop including a hot food deli and a butcher’s counter. A lot of extra hours were put in by builders and staff to ensure the shop opened in time for Christmas.

“The refurbishment and increase in our store size meant we had to introduce many new lines and categories,” says Richard. “We also increased the number of staff to make sure we maintained our high standards and customer service.”

“Our first challenge was filling the shelves with products the customers needed and wanted, at attractive prices, to maintain our customers’ trust. There was a bit of a beddingin period, and we made several changes to our range to make sure we had a strong offer.

Other than seasonal trends, which require changes to our range, we believe we’ve got the right mix now.”

Following the refurbishment, customers are returning more regularly and often making

several visits each week. “We are always looking for ways to increase footfall in our store and getting customers to add extra items into their baskets,” says Richard. “We are constantly reviewing our range and always try to promote new additions or local products to drive more purchases. We also pride ourselves on our customer service and we always look to improve this and make every customer visit a good one.

“We’re always looking at ways to develop our store and I want to create a shop floor

which is simple and effective and pleases the customers and ourselves. This will be an area we focus on further in 2015.”

Concerns for Richard, meanwhile, include rising energy prices and a lack of small business incentives and assistance. “More needs to be done to address business rates and create a fair system for small businesses,” he says. “A cut in rates would enable us to invest more in our business and attract more customers, who would spend more and in turn benefit the wider economy.”

COSTCUTTER EMBANKMENT: BENEFITING FROM NEW BUY AND SUPPLY SYSTEM

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ostcutter at the Embankment Service Station, Belfast, has been redeveloped from 500 to 1,500-square-feet, which was the highlight of the past year for Siobhan Lang, manager of the store.

“It was a big undertaking but is proving very worthwhile,” says Siobhan. “We have increased our grocery, fresh, chilled and household ranges which has helped drive a significant increase in business. Our hot food and hot drinks have doubled in sales. We have also recruited additional staff as part of the expansion.

“Moving from a small forecourt operation to a medium size convenience store has had its challenges but is delivering the right results. Having a bigger store requires more time ordering stock and handling each delivery and took a bit of getting used to.”

Installing a new buy and supply system, developed by Costcutter Supermarkets Group and Palmer and Harvey, has helped ease this transition and build turnover with better margins and better supply.

“It has been a very competitive market, with heavy promotional activity throughout the year,” says Siobhan. “It has been a good end

to the year for forecourts with oil prices dropping which has helped cashflow and increased turnover.

“Customers are always in a hurry so food to go is crucial, our ATM is also very popular and helps bring people into our store. Because people want to be in and out quickly we have to make sure our store is always well stocked and that customers can find what they are looking for. We have also seen the amount of credit card transactions increasing.”

While concerns include a potential reduction in footfall when the tobacco display ban comes into force in April, Siobhan is optimistic about prospects overall and is considering plans to redevelop another site.

“Hopefully the new tracer in the fuel due to be introduced in April this year will curb the smuggling business and continued cheaper oil prices will enable forecourts to compete with unmanned sites,” she says.

“Further improvements to service delivery from suppliers and ourselves will ensure growth in our business.”

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star storeS

TODAY’S LOCAL NEWRY: HITS S&W’s FIRST ‘CENTURY’

BY BRIAN McCALDEN

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local neighbourhood grocery store was the star attraction at a special event just before the festive break.

S&W Wholesale’s 100th Today’s opened at Lindsay Hill, High Street, Newry, on December 19. It not only marked a major development for the company but also a huge step forward for proud owners, Deborah and Patrick McMahon.

The well known business couple – whose successful building firm continues to progress – enlisted two special ‘stars’ to perform the official opening.

Concepta McMahon, (Pat’s mum) and Edith Gallagher (Deborah’s) added more than a dash of heritage to the big day as both ladies are born and reared locally, with both mothers actually living beside the 1,000-square-foot shop.

Guests at the celebration event included family members and friends, the local MLA, Dominic Bradley and Michael Skelton, sales and marketing director for S&W Wholesale across Ireland.

Michael told Ulster Grocer that the 100th ‘milestone’ event was just the latest celebration: “We recently opened our first store in Dublin so the retailing operation is going from strength to strength.”

Along with the other special guests, the senior executive was impressed by the

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Pictured are, from left, Dominic Bradley (MLA), Michael Skelton (S&W), Concepta McMahon (Pat’s Mum), Deborah McMahon (owner), Ciara (Deborah’s sister), Edith Gallagher (Deborah’s mum), Gerry Nelson (S&W), Chris McGaw (S&W) and Patrick McMahon (owner) at the shop opening.

‘star quality’ of the newly refurbished shop – which was formerly Emerson’s – an independent newsagents.

“This involved an extension to the store, the provision of an in-store ATM and an important addition, hot food and beverages as well as a Paypoint facility, scratch cards and of course, daily newspapers,” said Michael.

He added that opening offers and prize giveaways would of course feature in their

marketing activities, but underlined that, thanks to the power of the wholesaler, quality and value for money would be foremost.

“Our prices will always be very competitive and the range on offer comprehensive, with much thanks to S&W Wholesale.”

Thanking all the guests for attending, he said that they were also indeed proud to be responsible for S&W’s first ‘century’ and looked forward to serving the local convenience market into 2015 and far beyond.

STAR STORES

SUPERVALU BALLYMONEY: SUPERVALU STORE OF THE YEAR 2014

By Peter McCool, owner of SuperValu Ballymoney and Centra Ballymena

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rading in 2014 has been turbulent with customer trends changing, moving away more from weekly shops to ‘little and often’.

The highlights of the year were winning Musgrave Retail Partners (MRPNI) SuperValu Store of the Year in March 2014, achieving Excellence Ireland in May 2014 and Bronze standard Investors in People in July 2014. It has been a very busy year for us, including all the local charity work the store is involved in, and we have raised over £13,000 for worthy causes.

Our main focus for this year was two-fold.

1. On WOW, Ways of Working. Increasing productivity from all staff and efficiencies made across all areas of the business. We did this by working with MRPNI on bespoke training sessions.

2. Margin focus. By training and developing all management on margin issues, we have grown our overall margin by over 1%.

We introduced a further 50 new lines in our deli/hot food department, which has helped increase the department sales by 15% YTD along with growing the margin. With MRPNI’s support, we focused on the off sales department, reducing the core range of lines and extending the products that do sell. By re-merchandising the department and driving sales through product, price and standards, we have grown sales by 14% with an increased margin, while also delivering a better offering to our customers.

With all the discounted stores, eating up the market share of the pie, we find that our customer trends are changing and we as a business are adapting to meet their needs. We are very competitive on our petrol prices and use it as a footfall driver, and it has helped to increase our overall customer spend year to date.

Our partnership with MRPNI also means we can offer our customers fantastic deals through promotional mechanics such as Crazy Deals

which we’ve executed very effectively in-store with bigger, simpler displays and POS material.

2015, no doubt will be another difficult year with the introduction of all the government and welfare cuts etc. This will have a major impact on our customers with the economy still struggling as it is. However, we still see possibilities and we have major plans in place for January and February which will help keep driving our business forward, along with the great team of staff employed at SuperValu Ballymoney.

CENTRA BROOKMOUNT OMAGH: CENTRA STORE OF THE YEAR 2014

By CLAIRE McELHINNEY & NEIL SWEENEY, CO-OWNERS OF CENTRA BROOKMOUNT

From left, Claire McElhinney (co-owner), Earl Patterson and Pauline Sweeney (co-owner).

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014 has been a very successful year with the highlight, winning Musgrave Retail Partners (MRPNI) Centra Store of the Year award in March.

While a business cannot survive on awards alone, they certainly have motivated the staff to keep up the high standards as they are proud to be working in an award-winning store with a busy environment. The publicity

has been a great talking point among our customers, friends, family and potential employees. It has prompted some to ask the question, “What is Centra like to work for?”

We then have the opportunity to explain that we are part of MRPNI, which offers us fully integrated and active support across all areas in our business.

We are also very proud to reach the

milestone of 30 years in business in December 2014 and have ensured we’ve kept moving forwards with new products and lines for our customers, including the very successful Musgrave ‘Signature Tastes’ range and the pulled pork and pulled chicken. The latter is very popular in baguettes with our Deli customers.

Trading for the year had a clear distinction over the 12 months. The first six months showed a slight dip of 0.8% compared to 2013 but the second half of the year has not only closed this gap but shown an increase. Trends highlight that shoppers are moving from large inefficient stores to competitive convenience stores, like the Centra format.

The visible upturn in business for the last six months has shown us that we are running a viable, competitive, successful store which gives us confidence for 2015.

2015 plans include: keeping ‘the ship’ steady, striving to maintain all that we have worked for over the last 30 years, improving the areas that we could do better in, keeping up with new ideas and trends, looking at costs and how we can reduce them but most importantly, good customer relations at all times. No customers, no business!

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star storeS

TESCO EXTRA BRIDGEWATER PARK: £38m INVESTMENT BOOSTS LOCAL AREA Bridgewater Park.

Stephen Magill, manager of the Bridgewater Park Tesco Extra in Banbridge.

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he opening of a £38m Extra store in Banbridge by Tesco back in October provided a major economic boost for the Co Down town.

It generated 252 new jobs in the area and employs 330 people in total, including staff who transferred from other stores.

And it’s a local man, Stephen Magill, who heads up the new Tesco Extra at Bridgewater Park. The Banbridge man, who began his career in retail working part-time in the town when he was a student, says: “The people in Banbridge have been very supportive of this venture. It is what they wanted and the demand is there.

“There is definitely more on offer here.

We are the only Tesco in Northern Ireland to have a Community Space Champion who will

liaise directly with local groups to support and facilitate them in utilising a free-to-use, modern and well-equipped Community Room.

“David McKay, who lives in Banbridge and is well known in the area, is working hard to enable as many community groups and charities as possible to make use of the amenity.”

Stephen said the 63,500-square-foot facility has brought a new and improved shopping experience to Banbridge.

“We have lots of new features here, that are not available at the Tesco Banbridge Superstore in the town centre, which are incredibly popular with shoppers right across the Province,” he says. “Bridgewater Park’s Tesco Extra offers a greater selection and

has 648 free car parking spaces so it is appealing to those travelling either from other parts of Northern Ireland or the Republic. The location adjacent to The Outlet also adds to its attraction as a great shopping destination from which the town as a whole can benefit.

“It provides a fantastic opportunity to offer a bigger range of products for our customers – all under one roof.”

The new store has a huge selection of fashion, quality local food and grocery lines.

There’s also a general merchandise area with kitchenware, a pizza counter, a Primacy Meats counter, a bakery, a travel money desk and scan-as-you-shop.

The new store was built by Northern Ireland company Lagan Construction.

MACE COLERAINE: MACE STORE OF THE YEAR 2014

By STEVEN WILSON, OWNER OF MACE COLERAINE

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014 has been a successful year for us in many ways. We won Musgrave Retail Partners (MRPNI) Mace Store of the Year award, which was a special achievement and we were also recipients of an Investors in People award. This was an especially challenging task for our management team under the capable direction of John Mulholland of PDQ Solutions and his structure planning and goal setting really allowed us to stretch ourselves.

In the middle of the year, we re-branded our forecourt to Texaco and we have seen a significant increase in sales since, especially at night-time with the sharp imagery it offers.

Coupled with a great Mace image, we can give our customers a good offering.

With the support of MRPNI, we focused on many new areas during the year, particularly our Value for Money messaging and we have seen significant growth as a result. We have noticed certain changes in the buying patterns of our customers as they are visiting us more often rather than doing a big weekly shop.

We have big plans for 2015 and it is fair to say that we are looking ahead with optimism.

Certain areas of concern persist, such as the proposed budget cuts in the local economy and also the continuing availability of illegal fuel and tobacco products. This affects our turnover in areas of tight profits and the enforcement agencies seem to be struggling.

However, on a more upbeat note, we were able to reduce our operating costs this year by fitting solar panels on our roof and we will continue to drive our business forward in 2015 with such innovations.

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STAR STORES

ASDA ANTRIM: COMMITTED TO SUPPORTING LOCAL COMPANIES

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sda opened its flagship store in Northern Ireland at the Junction One Retail Park in Antrim in 2010, and currently employs nearly 400 full and part-time colleagues at the supermarket.

The retailer’s NI local sourcing team operates from the Antrim store and is responsible for working in partnership with over 100 suppliers from across the island of Ireland. The team currently source £300m of produce from local suppliers annually and remains committed to helping local companies maximise their business potential.

Approximately two-thirds of produce sourced locally is exported to Asda’s GB stores and this year several local businesses – including Mash Direct and Finnebrogue – successfully secured national listings with Asda.

Also located at the Antrim store is Asda Northern Ireland’s Retail Academy. Each year, hundreds of colleagues avail of the training opportunities on offer to them – from Women in Leadership courses to Health and Safety training programmes.

The Antrim store has its own dedicated Community Life Champion, Barbara Logan, who is responsible for spearheading the store’s ‘Community Life’ programme – an exciting initiative which is transforming how Asda interacts with the community surrounding its stores.

Pictured are, from left, Robert Ryans, general store manager at Asda Antrim; Benji the Donkey; Lorraine Nelson, co-ordinator at The Donkey Sanctuary Assisted Therapy Centre; and Asda Antrim’s Community Life Champion Barbara Logan.

Barbara has coordinated a wide range of community schemes this year and has welcomed over 50 community groups into the supermarket to use Asda’s meeting room space free-of-charge. Most recently Barbara was responsible for securing a sizeable donation of nearly £18,000 from the Asda Foundation for ‘The Donkey Sanctuary Assisted Therapy Centre’ in Templepatrick.

Barbara also picked up two awards this

year on behalf of the Community Life team – including Business in the Community’s ‘Community Impact Award’ and the ‘Antrim Community Excellence Randox Business Award’.

Earlier this year, Barbara was appointed as ‘Regional Community Life Champion’ and will lead Asda’s team of Community Life Champions as they continue to reach out and engage with communities across NI in 2015.

MILESTONE RATHFRILAND: £3M REFIT FOR THE NISA EXTRA

By Tom McAvoy, owner of Milestone Rathfriland

Tom McAvoy is pictured, second left, at the opening of the new store.

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014 was a very successful year of trading for us – our turnover and range of products increased significantly.

One of the highlights of our year was the official opening event, where we had local celebrity David Meade – the Illusionist running a show in-store. We also had a prize draw at the store giving customers the opportunity to win a Mini, by giving them a free ticket when they spent £25 in-store. This promotion was a fantastic success and the turnout was way above our expectations and

there was a great vibrant atmosphere in-store.

This was closely followed by our Christmas fayre where we focused on a Celebration of Food and showcased all our festive products which we make in store. Within this, we emphasised the sampling of foods and drinks to encourage our Christmas sales.

We did a major renovation during the year and the shop increased to three times its original size. We employed 45 new members of staff, taking our number to 150. We also completed a £3m refit of the store which saw

us introduce a butchery and in-store bakery, as well as significantly increasing our range of products.

Fresh ready meals, made in-store, are a major growth area for us as consumers look to save time but still enjoy a good quality meal. Since the refit the whole emphasis of the store has changed, with more importance being placed on fresh produce, chilled and ready meals.

In the next year, we hope to open a restaurant/coffee shop. We also want to conduct refresher training for all of our staff to ensure we provide the best possible service to our customers.

Time is a barrier to achieving the training.

We would like to work alongside Southern Regional College. We have used them in the past and would like to develop the links to ensure staff training is enhanced in necessary areas. We also would like to develop links with Invest NI regarding pricing and labelling of products and developing technology to assist in this area.

We realise that although our business has seen significant growth over the past year, we cannot become complacent. We are constantly looking for new innovative ideas to keep the customer interested in our products and in turn enjoy their visit to our store.

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star storeS

SAINSBURY’S WEST BELFAST: TRAINING FOCUS AND STRONG COMMUNITY LINKS

BY CIARAN OWENS, MANAGER OF SAINSBURY’S WEST BELFAST

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Ciaran Owens is pictured, second left, with colleagues at Sainsbury’s West Belfast.

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e’re delighted to have been short-listed as the ‘star store’ for Sainsbury’s in Northern Ireland. Sainsbury’s West Belfast is the largest store in Northern Ireland and the second largest employer in West Belfast, with around 350 colleagues.

Our store offers customers everything from Gok for Tu right through to full-service food counters. Our online offering has seen fantastic growth throughout the past year and the store has particularly become a destination for clothing and non-food.

We’ve focused a lot on colleague training over the past 12 months and we are particularly proud that we have become a catalyst for talent across the entire region, with a number of our colleagues going on to progress their careers in other stores across Northern Ireland. The store also has very strong links with the local community, with over £15,000 donated last year to a number of local charities.

In 2015, we are keen to keep up the good work from 2014 and give our customers the great shopping experience they know and expect from Sainsbury’s in West Belfast.

GROCERYAID LEFT: In January newly-elected officers and members of the Northern Ireland committee of food industry charity GroceryAid included Chairman Cliff Kells, centre, and, from left, David McWilliams, Lloyd Graham, Gerry Cassidy, Trevor Magill, Jonathan Verner, Honorary Treasurer Mark Gowdy, James Greer and Des McCullough. Mairead Catterson (not present) was elected honorary secretary.

GroceryAid: Record year for fundraising in pictures

Attending the GroceryAid Ulster Grocers’ Ball in May were Peter Henry of Allied Bakeries; Stephen Murphy; Gillian Barker, director general of GroceryAid; and Paul Clark, compere of the event. Stephen was the lucky recipient of a summer holiday worth £2,000 sponsored by Kingsmill, after entering the draw supporting GroceryAid.

Guests, including Bronagh Luke (second left) and Paddy Doody (right) of the Henderson Group enjoyed the Candy Ball supporting Grocery Aid, at the Culloden Hotel in October.

The Musgrave Retail Partners Team – Peter and James Spence, Tony Gracey and Trevor Magill – were among competitors at the GroceryAid Sweet Charity Golf Day in August.

Pictured at the launch of the 26th annual Ulster Grocer Marketing Awards, presented in May at the GroceryAid Ulster Grocers’ Ball, were, from left, Sarah Corr of AV Browne, Jonathan Verner of Nisa, Amy Bennington of Power NI and James Greer of Ulster Grocer.

At the GroceryAid John Barrett Lunch in Deanes at Queens, named in memory of one of the charity’s leading supporters, attendees included, from left, Joan Barratt, Nicola Goldblatt and Cliff and Bernie Kells.

Thank you for supporting our industry charity in 2014. Hope to see you at events in 2015 including the GroceryAid Ulster Grocers’ Gala Ball on May 22 and the Candy Ball on October 2.

Cliff Kells, chairman of GroceryAid NI. 37

RETAIL PROFILE

Investing in the future Continuing to grow sales, while many other grocery retailers struggle, the Henderson Group has major investment plans for 2015 including the expansion of its Mallusk site, marketing activity and a continued fresh food push. By Alyson Magee.

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Paddy Doody, sales and marketing director of Henderson Wholesale.

ocal sourcing is “the right thing to do,” says Paddy Doody, sales and marketing director of Henderson Wholesale. “We’re doing it because we’re a local company, who feel it’s vital to invest back into the local community we operate in. Research has shown it’s what shoppers want. However, still at the forefront of our shoppers’ minds is fantastic value. So we continue to make sure we satisfy both.

You’ll find a lot of companies trying to own this space.

“Nobody owns it. The multiples, such as Tesco and Lidl are claiming it, and so are we.

However we’re the ones, with over 75% of our fresh produce sourced within the island of Ireland, who can stand over our claim in a stronger position than anyone else.”

A focus on fresh and local food continues to work well for the Henderson Group, which expects to end 2014 with wholesale sales up by 2.7% and like-for-like retail sales up 1.9%. Store numbers totalled 420 at last

count, of which 77 are owned and operated by Henderson Retail. It’s larger formats, including 41 EUROSPAR and five VIVOXTRA stores, are seeing like-for-like sales growth of 3%.

“We’re probably one of the only Northern Ireland companies that can really honestly talk about being a champion of local suppliers because our heritage is about local,” he says.

“We’re really getting behind this with strong marketing and communication.

“In our research, our shoppers will say local is important but it’s not the only aspect that matters of course. There are many elements that need to be right. Local sourcing and provenance give confidence to the shopper and, when you talk about local sourcing, the shopper equates that in their mind with freshness.”

SPAR recently introduced a new range of own-brand pies using 100% Northern Irish ingredients. Produced by Armagh-based Daily Bake, all ingredients from margarine and flour

A focus on fresh and local produce continues into 2015, and further investment secures support for local supplier profiling. Pictured are, from left, Phillip Orr and Richard Orr from William Orr & Sons; Stephen Murdoch, produce grower; Jamie Carney from Grove Farm; and Jonny Cuddy at Cuddy Farms, supplier to Cookstown Meats.

8 • •Ulster 3638 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

retail profile to meat, poultry and the vegetables going into the pies, are locally sourced.

“All the talk is about shoppers moving away from large supermarkets in favour of top up shopping and there’s no doubt that is happening,” says Paddy, citing recent reports of negative like-for-like sales among the leading four multiple retailers. “That’s a seismic shift in terms of the way the shopper is behaving.

“The multiples have a lot of space but it’s in the wrong place. We have a lot of space that’s in the right place and we’re taking advantage of that because we have over 400 stores throughout Northern Ireland in towns, villages, cities and arterial routes.”

Although discounters and bargain chains are making inroads in the local grocery market, Paddy says such retailers tend to attract planned visits to their retail park locations whereas “because we’re closer to the heart of the community, people will go to our stores more often. In discounter stores, they’re buying product that will be in there today and maybe not next week. In our stores, we have fresh and ambient deliveries daily, making our stores a reliable source for shoppers.”

All SPAR’s locally-sourced products will be repackaged in Spring 2015, to create a uniform look and feel, and the relaunch will be backed by a major above-the-line marketing campaign. As well as complying with new labelling legislation, the new packaging will also incorporate a traffic light health labelling system.

Marketing spend will total £4m this year, across above- and below-the-line activity including new lifestyle photography and filming for TV, press, leaflets, outdoor, radio PR and sponsorship, representing a major up-weighting from 2014. “We’ve a couple of very exciting projects coming up in 2015,” says Paddy. “Our fresh food participation now is just short of 40% at retail, and our target is to move that up to 50%.

“What we’re trying to do is to get shoppers to reappraise the way they view our brands for meal solutions. We do have the depth and breadth of range and a fantastic value proposition but we need to start changing up shoppers’ habits when they go to make decisions.”

A further plan for the Henderson Group this year is redefining and reclassifying its stores “in terms of macro space allocation, and in terms of the look and feel of the stores,” says Paddy.

Allocation of space within stores, layout, range, price, in-store equipment and marketing have an impact on informing shoppers of the range of meal solutions. These are all major contributors to successful trading.

2015 also brings £10m spend on a major redevelopment of the Henderson Group site at Mallusk over the next five years. This will include rebuilding and extending current office space by 50% and extending capacity into the Hydepark Warehouse, owned by the Group but currently leased by M&S. 8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

The ‘Milk It’ campaign, which ran across all brands, raised a total of £150,000 for Tearfund, which helps to keep 80,000 women and children in India safe from the dangers of trafficking. Pictured are, from left, Paul Francis from Tearfund, TV presenter Sarah Travers and Bronagh Luke, head of corporate marketing at Henderson Group.

TOMORROW MATTERS Corporate Social Responsibility remains a priority for the Henderson Group and, beyond local sourcing, its sustainability programme ranges from investment in technology reducing energy usage in transport and logistics to instore efficiencies.

“It’s important for various reasons, not least of which is it’s the right thing to do,” says Paddy, “and also in terms of being more efficient as energy prices continue to rise.”

Henderson Retail recently scooped the Sustainability award at the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NI Chamber) Chamber Awards 2014, recognising responsible business practices in relation to the environment, community and people.

The Cancer Fund for Children and the NSPCC continue to be priority brand charity partners. With EUROSPAR and VIVOXTRA raising over £378,000 for Cancer Fund for Children since May 2011 and just over £100,000 for NSPCC since April 2013. The stores also continue to support other local charities and community initiatives.

CHALLENGING ENVIRONMENT A more optimistic economic outlook in 2014 has not filtered through to shoppers’ spending habits, says Paddy. “Retailers are suffering from margins being squeezed, they’re suffering from costs continuing to rise and just relatively low levels of sales growth. It continues to be very tough out there. We’re trying to help them by investing in terms and competitive price points that help to maintain their margins.”

About £2m has been earmarked this year for reducing the cost of goods to retailers duly carrying the reduction through to shoppers in their store.

“Price has still been a major motivator for the shopper but price doesn’t have to be the very absolute cheapest,” he says. “It’s also about providing value for the shopper, through good parking, easy access, pleasant shopper experiences, fresh and ever-expanding ranges and appealing promotional activity. All of this together gives our shoppers fantastic value and, since our sales continue to grow, then we must be doing something right.”

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RETAIL NEWS – INDEPENDENTS

Emersons welcomes Tesco withdrawal from Armagh E

mersons, a family-run supermarket which has invested £2m in expanding and enhancing its services, has welcomed news of Tesco’s withdrawal from plans to open in Armagh.

“Emersons has been serving families in Armagh for 125 years this year,” said Gavin Emerson, owner of Emersons. “We are celebrating customer loyalty and our commitment to the high street by investing £2m which is securing up to 150 jobs.

“When any of the big supermarket giants move into a town, there is always a fear how it will impact on local people and local businesses.

We remain confident, however, that our investment in the city’s high street will draw out-of-town shoppers back into the city centre as we enhance our customer experience. We believe in creating a sustainable future which will continue to create jobs, put life back to the high street and make shopping for your groceries easy again.

“People in Armagh have been saying there’s no need for another supermarket. We encourage local people to continue to be loyal by supporting their local independently-run businesses.”

Tesco has reportedly dropped plans to open new stores in Armagh and Carryduff. The Armagh store, already under construction, is expected to be completed and then sold on; potentially to another retail group. Tesco is also closing 43 UK stores.

Gavin Emerson is pictured, right, with his father Henry looking at the £2m investment plans for Emersons in Armagh.

Emersons employs 110 people and, as well as a supermarket, offers the city’s Post Office, a Wine Store and Uluru Bar & Grill.

Italian backing for Northern Ireland corned beef C

orned beef from O’Doherty Fine Meats in Enniskillen has been listed in the ‘Ark of Taste’ initiative by Italy’s University of Gastronomic Sciences in Turin as a food to be preserved from extinction.

Ulster Corned Beef is among 79 UK products the University wants to preserve, alongside Berkshire pigmeat, Devon Red Ruby beef and Aylesbury Duck.

Ark of Taste is an integral part of the northern Italian’s commitment to the preservation and promotion of great food, is at the heart of the Slow Food movement and offers a programme of courses designed to ’promote the enjoyment and protection of distinctive regional produce and cooking’.

“Our aim is to strengthen the connection between food and its producers,” said Prof Michele Fino. “We believe food should not be seen as a commodity because this is a bad thing. “Commodities have only average quality – they can only be distinguished by weight and quantity – and lack relations between producers and traditions. Our objective is to promote great food with a rich tradition.”

Pat O’Doherty, managing director of O’Doherty Fine Meats and revivalist of Traditional Fermanagh Corned Beef, said: “I am delighted to see Ulster Corned Beef included in the campaign because of its rich history and provenance dating back centuries.

“What we’ve done in Fermanagh is to recreate Ulster Corned Beef from an ancient recipe and curing technique. It’s proved an immensely popular development for us because of its very distinctive taste and texture. I’ve been privileged to take part in Slow Food initiatives such as Salone del Gusto in Turin.”

Turin is also host to Terra Madre, another Slow Food initiative which provides a framework for producers to exchange ideas.

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NIIRTA ISSUES NEW YEAR MESSAGE

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usiness rates, along with political development at Stormont and local government, are the top challenges for 2015 according to the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association (NIIRTA).

“By all accounts, this Christmas was one of the best for the retail sector for a long time given the improved economic climate and no serious dissident attacks,” said Glyn Roberts, chief executive of NIIRTA. We hope to see steady growth in 2015, with the retail sector at the cutting edge of economic recovery.

“Business Rates is the top priority for NIIRTA in 2015. We face a perfect storm of challenges such as the Rates Revaluation, long term future of the Small Business Rate Relief Scheme and Rates Convergence of the 11 super councils.

“Within the retail sector, we have had both winners and losers in the Rates Revaluation, and our priority is to support our members who potentially will be disadvantaged by this process.

“While it was encouraging to see progress with the Stormont House Agreement, there remains a huge amount of work in its implementation and the detail of the final Executive Budget. We look forward to legislation to devolve Corporation Tax and hope that it will pass as speedily as possible through Westminster.

“We also face a huge challenge with the supercouncils taking power on April 1. These new super councils have the potential to be game changers in terms of local economic development, planning and regeneration. They must hit the ground running on April 1, with radical plans for boosting their local private sector and supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs.”

NIIRTA has also welcomed Tesco’s decision to cancel proposed stores in Carryduff and Armagh.

RETAIL NEWS – SYMBOLS

SPAR Omagh Half Marathon set for March 28 T

Pictured are, from left, Emma Armer, PR & communications officer at the Henderson Group; Martin McLaughlin, Omagh Harriers Race secretary; and Cathy McCourt, one of Northern Ireland’s leading female athletes.

he 26th SPAR Omagh Half Marathon and 5k Fun Run was launched earlier this month, with organisers hoping for another record-breaking year. Over 3,000 runners took to the streets of Omagh last year, to walk or run the 13-mile route, while this year’s event will be held on Saturday, March 28.

All runners in the Half Marathon must pre-enter by March 21, while 5K participants can register in advance or on race day.

“We are delighted to continue our sponsorship of this truly exciting event,” said Bronagh Luke, head of Corporate Marketing at the Henderson Group. “You don’t have to be a seasoned runner to take part, as the 5k run and walk offers a great alternative; making it a perfect event for all ages, sizes and fitness levels.

“This sporting occasion is focused just as much on community spirit as it is on promoting active and healthy lifestyles. It not only attracts top class athletes to Omagh, along with inspiring so many local people to be active, but also raises much needed funds for extremely worthwhile charities. In 2014, SPAR Omagh Half raised an amazing £4,500 for the Down Syndrome society in the Omagh area and this year’s charity partner is the Royal National Institute of the Blind, Omagh.

We are proud to be associated with this exciting sporting event and would encourage as many people as possible to take part, get active and keep fit.”

Entries have now opened online at www.athleticsni.org.

Nisa Retail announces new CEO I

From left, Pat Smith of Derrykeeran Nurseries in Co Armagh is pictured with Aiden Kearney, fresh produce trading manager of Musgrave Retail Partners.

Musgrave serves up 400,000 Brussels sprouts in NI

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his past Christmas, Musgrave Retail Partners (MRPNI) served up 400,000 Brussels sprouts to Northern Ireland consumers, thanks to its partnership with Co Armagh supplier Derrykeeran Nurseries.

As one of the top sprout farmers in Northern Ireland, Derrykeeran Nurseries supplied the home-grown vegetable to all SuperValu, Centra and Mace stores.

“We’re delighted to continue our work with Derrykeeran Nurseries who have been supplying MRPNI for almost 20 years,” said Aiden Kearney, fresh produce trading manager at MRPNI. “We are committed to bringing the highest quality fresh produce to consumers and sourcing in Northern Ireland allows us to do this. We are very proud of our relationship with suppliers such as Derrykeeran Nurseries who are one of over 250 local suppliers we use across our business.”

Pat Smith, of supplier Derrykeeran Nurseries, said: “My family has been farming Brussels sprouts for three generations and I have been involved in the business for 24 years. I am delighted to be working with companies such as Musgrave as they have a strong focus on fresh, local produce and it is great to know that our hard work will be enjoyed by so many across Northern Ireland on Christmas Day and throughout the festive period.”

ndependent convenience retailer Nisa has announced the appointment of Nick Read (pictured) as its new chief executive officer, taking over from Neil Turton in February 2015.

“Nisa provides a best in class service to its member retailers and is taking big steps to improve the retail experience for shoppers,” said Read. “I’m looking forward to working with the board and members to ensure that Nisa delivers on its potential. I am passionate about delivering unparalleled service for the customer and I look forward to bringing to Nisa my experience with multi-channel customer organisations so we deliver a winning experience for members and customers.”

Read joins Nisa from Thomas Cook, where he shaped customer experience as Group customer service director. Previous employers have included Vodafone UK, Lloyds Banking Group, Tesco, Deloitte Consulting and Aldi.

“Nick’s mix of strategic and operational experience and his strong focus on the customer set him apart,” said Christopher Baker, chairman of Nisa. “He impressed us as the ideal candidate for the CEO role at Nisa, and I believe his management style, commitment and enthusiasm for the Nisa model will enable him to engage with all stakeholders throughout the business.

“Nick is an experienced leader with a cross-sector understanding of shopper behaviour. His skills and insight will be invaluable to our business as we continue to develop as a retail organisation.”

Now in its 37th year, Nisa has developed a concept which provides its members with a comprehensive retail support network to enable them to compete in the convenience sector. Most recently, this has seen the development of its award-winning own label Heritage, the new store of the future format and the first ever Nisa brand TV advertisement.

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RETAIL NEWS – MULTIPLES

Local firms secure new Tesco business Stephen Magill, manager of Tesco Extra is pictured with Csilla Bertok, manager of Ground Espresso Bars.

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wo local companies have secured new contracts with Tesco, with local coffee chain Ground opening in the new Tesco Banbridge while Tasty Foods Cuisine has won a listing from Tesco GB for its ready-to-use Tikka Masala and Balti curry sauces.

The team behind Ground will create up to 10 jobs in the new Banbridge store, which is Tesco’s 55th branch in Northern Ireland.

The 1,800-squarefoot coffee shop will offer a welcome respite to busy shoppers looking for a break, as well as provide a sizeable kid’s play area packed with the latest must-have toys, alongside an area to park prams.

“We are delighted that a local brand like ours has been selected from a number of large coffee providers

Co-operative Food stores introducing Bags of Cash C

o-operative Food stores in Northern Ireland are stocking a new range of longer-life reusable carrier bags which, as well as helping the environment, will allow shoppers to raise bags of cash for good causes.

The move comes as the existing 5p levy on single-use bags in Northern Ireland is extended to include all bags which retail at less than 20p, in a move designed to protect the environment by further reducing the number of plastic bags in circulation.

Any money made by the Co-op on sales of its new woven reusable large shopping bag, woven reusable small shopping bag (which doubles as a bottle carrier) and new fold-away bags (all available for £1 each), as well as its redesigned 15p bag for life, will go to good causes.

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to deliver for a multi-national brand like Tesco,” said Karen Gardiner, co-owner of Ground. “It is a great sign of confidence in what we have achieved here in Northern Ireland and will hopefully spur us on to future expansion and job creation. Tesco is trialing new concepts that will focus on delivering more for their local communities and we hope we can supply more than a little bit extra to our customers in Banbridge and beyond.”

The new Tesco Extra store at Bridgewater Park in Banbridge opened earlier this month, bringing 252 new jobs to the area and potentially boosting cross-border trade.

Tasty Foods Cuisine is, meanwhile, supplying its sauces to over 200 Tesco stores in Britain and Northern Ireland, following the Belfast company’s success last year in winning business from the retailer for sauce concentrates Authentic Curry Paste and Authentic Gravy Paste.

Unlike the pastes, the new sauces have been developed for customers seeking fresh products and are available from chill cabinets in larger 400g tubs.

“We saw an opportunity here to create healthy nutritional sauces in other ethnic ranges that are a speciality of our business, Indian and Chinese,” said Conor Daykin, an experienced chef who founded Tasty Foods with wife Kathy in 1990. “Our target market is family meal time as market research has shown consumers to be more concerned about health issues and best value for money when it comes to the weekly shop. Ethnic Indian also leads the sauce market in Britain.”

In addition to Tesco, Tasty Foods supplies products to Asda, Sainsbury’s, Musgrave/ SuperValu and Spar in Northern Ireland.

The Co-operative Food has more than 30 stores in Northern Ireland, and expects the move will raise tens of thousands of pounds in the next 12 months. All the money will go to projects in local communities.

“We have a strong commitment to the environment and we share the aspiration of reducing the numbers of plastic carrier bags that are in circulation,” said John McNeill, regional stores director for The Co-operative Food in Northern Ireland.

“By buying any of our range of £1 bags, customers will not only be contributing to the environment, but they’ll have a stylish carrier which can be used time and time again, and they’ll be raising money that will go to good causes. Together we can reduce, reuse, recycle, and also reinvest, in Northern Ireland.”

The Co-operative Food will confirm which good causes can bid for the funding generated by bag sales, and how they can apply, during 2015.

The new fold-away bags are made from 100% recycled materials, while the large and small woven bags are made from 80% recycled materials. All the bags can be recycled at Salvation Army textile recycling banks in Northern Ireland.

WHOLESALE PROFILE

New SHS Group chief executive lays out future growth strategies

BY DAVID ELLIOTT

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he task of finding a new boss to head up one of the most progressive indigenous companies in Northern Ireland was no mean feat.

SHS Group had been transformed over the last few years into a diversified business distributing its own – such as Shloer and WKD etc – and other company’s brands to a customer base spread far and wide under Michael Howard.

The task of taking hold of the SHS baton following Howard’s retirement falls to Elaine Birchall, a woman who’s CV screams FCMG (fast moving consumer goods) across a wide geography and working for some heavy hitting household names.

The Dublin City University graduate joined Grand Metropolitan in the UK as a graduate trainee before moving to Coca-Cola where she completed her chartered management accountant qualification.

From there, she joined Colgate Palmolive in 1994 working in finance, IT, sales and marketing, supply chain and business transformation functions as far afield as New York, Brussels, Paris, and the South Pacific.

It was then off to PZ Cussons in Manchester in 2007, where she quickly took up the role of UK managing director.

Promotion to the Group Operating Board in 2011 saw Elaine manage Africa, before becoming global director of Business Transformation.

Such a wealth of experience leaves her well equipped to take over the top role at SHS and she has some very definite plans for the future of the company in place.

“Future growth strategies will revolve around maximising value in the branded categories we play in, remaining best in class as an outsourced solution for third party brands, and seeking new acquisitions that fit our business model,” Elaine told Ulster Grocer. “Our focus remains on growing a profitable, independent and deliberately diverse family business that owns, markets and distributes great FMCG brands for the benefit of future generations of employees, business partners and shareholders.”

The experience Elaine has gleaned from her years in the business have helped hone such a definitive strategy.

“Building and sustaining brands requires a business to be outward looking, agile and completely customer centric. You need to be ruthless in defining what business you are in, and relentless in being the best in class in your chosen sectors.”

Elaine Birchall

And to do that, Elaine’s keen to maintain an entrepreurial culture at the company.

“SHS Group has a very special culture, a great legacy from the values instilled by its founders, enabled by a relatively flat management structure that allows decisions to be made quickly and individual efforts to be visible and recognised.”

Although only in the job since November, Elaine said she’s enjoying the challenge.

“I am enjoying the diversity of the sectors that SHS Group operate in, and the variety of challenges that presents. I am already proud of the homogeneity of the values that underpin our business culture; it is a rich asset that has taken years to build. And, as ever in my career, I embrace the opportunity to lead a

great business with a talented and committed group of employees and business partners.”

Like all bosses, time is a precious commodity but Elaine makes sure she makes time to relax.

“Leaving work at the front door is challenging and I try hard to be present and spend time with my family on weekends. I have nurtured great relationships in my years as an expat so invariably we are visiting or hosting offshore friends several times a year.”

Such global experience can only benefit SHS Group.

Although Elaine has big shoes to fill, there aren’t many with such a depth of experience to take over at the helm of such a dynamic company.

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WHOLESALE PROFILE

P&H’s Mallusk depot opened last year, following a £1m investment in the site.

P&H sets its sights on boosting local presence L

Northern Ireland was the first region to complete migration of the Costcutter retail brand over to wholesale and distribution partner Palmer & Harvey and now – with a new depot up and running and a local representative appointed to The BuyCo – the UK’s leading delivered grocery wholesaler is hoping to expand its presence in the local market. By Alyson Magee.

Julian Streeter, managing director of operations at P&H.

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ate last year, the UK’s leading delivered grocery wholesaler – Palmer and Harvey (P&H) – brought a contingent of journalists over from Britain to view its new £1m Mallusk depot and a few of its Costcutter retail partners.

Founded in 1925 as a confectionery and tobacco wholesaler, Hove-based P&H is now the seventh largest privately-owned company in the UK with a £4.3bn turnover offering wholesale, distribution and retail services across the grocery trade including multiples, convenience, forecourt and CTN operators.

P&H was showcasing its infrastructure in Northern Ireland as an example of best practice, after grumblings from retailers last year over delivery and availability during the migration of the Costcutter brand from Nisa.

Costcutter’s switch from Nisa to P&H, marking the end of a 27-year partnership, was completed in Northern Ireland last March ahead of the migration in Britain.

By then, the new Mallusk depot was operational while the more recent

WHOLESALE PROFILE

P&H NI in numbers • Two 24-hour sites • 110 staff members • 11,500 lines • 88,000 sq ft of ambient, fast-moving lines • 40,000 sq ft of ambient, slow-moving lines • 20,000 sq ft of frozen • 12,000 sq ft of chilled

P&H’s press trip included O’Neill’s Costcutter in Portglenone, where proprietor Philip O’Neill operates a 7,500-squarefoot site including value-added food processing and an extensive grocery stock, deli, butchery, fresh fruit and vegetables, hot food to go, lottery, ATM and automated DVD rental.

appointment of a locally-based senior buyer for The BuyCo, a new joint operational venture created by P&H and Costcutter Supermarkets Group with £5bn of buying power, completes the local set up.

“Our purpose-built Belfast distribution centre was in place ready for the start of the UK-wide Costcutter migration in March 2014,” says Julian Streeter, managing director of operations at P&H. “It therefore played a pivotal role in transition, and learnings were implemented throughout our network.

“The new depot offers the same high level of technology as our mainland sites including voice-directed picking, SIS stock inventory system and PDA driver handhelds with live tracking to monitor delivery and give an estimated time of arrival for deliveries. All of this means that we can provide an excellent and enhanced service for our customers in

Northern Ireland.

“We are now concentrating on our biggest strength which is distribution. We are the chosen outsourced distributor and trusted partner of major blue chip companies.

“We also have a proven track record of delivering to all sizes and types of retail businesses across the UK offering the benefits of a shared-user network to both existing and new customers. Our strong stock control processes enable us to manage securely high value products such as tobacco.”

The new Mallusk depot offers 120,000 square feet of space, with a further 40,000 square feet available at a further site.

P&H is currently servicing around 300 independent retailers and 125 Costcutter stores in Northern Ireland, including 22 new accounts opened in 2014, and views the local market – where independent and symbol

group retailers over-perform against other UK regions – as ripe for expansion.

The new Mallusk site offers “plenty of room for current and future requirements,” says Ivan Hawthorne, Mallusk distribution centre manager. “We manage capacity in line with demand. We currently have an average nightly volume of 14,500 cases but our strategy was to build-in extra capability for new business and we can treble, or even quadruple the number of deliveries in Northern Ireland.

“We are different from most other distribution businesses by taking ‘ownership’ of the product. We are not only delivering cost and efficiency benefits to our customers but also significant working capital improvements.

We are flexible to all needs with our tritemperature fleet of vehicles and vans offering companies of all types and size offering a complete delivery solution.

“Our coverage of the UK is second to none and the recent expansion of our network now puts us in an excellent position to leverage our scale. We can also offer extensive retailing advice programmes. Our network provides efficient, high service capability and resilience in times of disruptive weather as witnessed during the severe floods last winter.”

P&H has introduced a new Independent brand for its retail partners, and plans to expand it to further lines in 2015.

P&H delivers direct to stores from its Mallusk depot.

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FOOD & DRINKS NEWS

Irwin’s Nutty Krust makes the perfect New Year’s Revolution N

orthern Ireland’s leading local bakery Irwin’s is revolutionising New Year’s resolutions by putting bread at the top of the menu.

Portadown-based Irwin’s – the proud baker of the much-loved Nutty Krust plain batch loaf – is calling on the public to enjoy a little bit of what they like through a new integrated marketing campaign – the Nutty Krust New Year’s Revolution.

Nutty Krust, created by Irwin’s Bakery in 1963, is one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic breads.

With a crunchy top and bottom crust, the bread is baked on the sole of the oven and made through a unique dough mixing and fermenting process which gives Nutty Krust its distinctive flavour.

Speaking about the campaign, Richard McQuillan, head of Marketing, Irwin’s Bakery said: “It can be easy to lose motivation when it comes to New Year’s resolutions – so much so that January 19 is known as Blue Monday – the most depressing day of the year. At Irwin’s, we believe that a little bit of what you love does you no harm at this time of the year, which is why we have launched the Nutty Krust New Year’s Revolution campaign, which combines outdoor, radio and in store advertising – as well as PR and sampling activity.”

“Bread has been given a bad reputation over the last number of years. However, carbohydrates form an important part of a balanced diet – so our message is, if people intend to break their resolutions, do it properly with a slice of Nutty Krust,” Richard concluded.

Nutty Krust is on offer for £1 in stores across Northern Ireland from January 2015. For more information visit www.irwinsbakery.com.

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LOCAL FOOD

Need for focused government policy and support Lynsey McKitterick, of the University of Ulster Business School, looks at the latest findings from the EU ERDF LOCal FOOD as an Engine for Local Business (LOCFOOD) project, and its practical application for small food producers and retailers in Northern Ireland.

T

his article will explore the impact of Government support policies and strategies for small and micro size food producer growth across a number of European regions and will discuss recent research findings from the LOCFOOD project. The purpose of the EU ERDF LOCal FOOD as an Engine for Local Business (LOCFOOD) project has been to develop an understanding of the existing policies and strategies for small and micro food producers across a range of European regions, including Northern Ireland, Bulgaria, Norway, Italy, Greece, Spain, Slovenia, Sweden and Switzerland. Led by the University of Ulster Business School, the research identified the key factors that characterise the local food sector in each region, including existing initiatives that support the development of the sector and also any observable gaps in policy and programme support.

The research involved each partner in the project carrying out a survey with micro food producers, with less than 10 employees, and conducting a review of existing programmes and supports for food producers in each region. This mapping exercise provided an overview of available support in each of the regions involved in the project, at both regional and local levels. The views of industry stakeholders, policy actors and food producers helped to provide a variety of perspectives on the nature of business support for small and micro food producers and food producer engagement with that support, and a deeper understanding of the factors that restrict engagement in support programmes.

The research indicated that whilst there is a range of support programmes that these businesses can and do avail of, the support tends to be of a generic nature and not directly focused on the particular needs and characteristics of micro size food producers or food artisans. There is also a general lack of clarity among the businesses of the support that is available to them and this has had a detrimental effect on the degree of engagement in support programmes, particularly in programmes organised by central government departments. Key issues identified here included a lack of awareness

Lynsey McKitterick is pictured with Paul Frew at a LOCFOOD event last year.

Lynsey McKitterick

of what support is available and the key contact points for particular programmes.

In addition, there were calls for funding applications and procedures to be simplified, including the need to reduce red tape, and for eligibility of costs to be more flexible. In short, micro food producers can simply feel overwhelmed by the amount of information they have to navigate, and the key message for agencies is that there is a real need to consider how best to communicate their offerings to these business owners.

The research highlighted initiatives that have seen strong engagement by micro food producers. There has been wide use of the Rural Development Programme (RDP) across all the partner regions. Specifically in Northern Ireland, Invest Northern Ireland’s Innovation Vouchers scheme has had a high uptake by micro food producers. Local government support programmes that are tailored to the requirements of micro food producers have had success also.

The research also identified the potential for developing greater linkages between tourism and micro food producer activity. The results highlighted that only a small number of food producers in Northern Ireland are involved in what could broadly be described as food tourism activities, and as such are losing out on potential business growth opportunities by not utilising the full range of

short supply chain opportunities that allow these businesses to showcase the quality of their produce and their strong credentials around food authenticity and sense of place.

However, an interesting, and important, finding from the research is that these micro food producers display relatively high levels of innovative activity, particularly in terms of new products. This has been reflected in the many good taste awards won by local producers for products combining outstanding taste, quality and innovation. Undoubtedly, further engagement in Government support that is relevant to these producers and their type of business, can only help develop innovation levels.

Given the economic and social importance of small and micro food producers across Europe, where 79% of businesses employ less than 10 people (FoodDrinkEurope, 2014), and given the high levels of innovation activity highlighted by this project, it is critical that relevant agencies at central and local Government levels work to build on this potential through focused policies and supports that promote the further development of the sector.

For further information, please contact Lynsey McKitterick on: l.mckitterick@ulster.ac.uk.

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ARTISAN FOODS

Local craft producers gain recognition at home and abroad With support from Food NI and Invest NI, and buoyed by success in Great Taste and other awards, the number of local artisan food and drink producers and manufacturers has rapidly grown in recent years.

Glenarm Organic Salmon introduces new smoked line G

lenarm Organic Salmon, Northern Ireland’s only Atlantic fish farm, has launched a new smoked product with the aim of building on its success in supplying fresh salmon to high-end restaurants and hotels from San Francisco to London, Dubai and Hong Kong.

Representing its first move into premium, value-added products, the smoked product was developed in response to demand from existing customers.

“We’ve taken our time in developing the smoked salmon because we wished to get the right cure to ensure a really distinctive flavour,” said John Russell, managing director of Glenarm Organic Salmon.

“We worked with an experienced local curer, Ewing’s in Belfast, which has been smoking fish for over a century, to create the unique flavour of a premium product. Ewing’s has also been smoking our salmon for a number of years using their own kiln and has

won a Great Taste Award for the product.

“Our smoked salmon features a cure that we’ve developed with Ewing’s and is quite different. We will continue to supply Ewing’s with salmon as well as marketing our new smoked product.

“It’s also required substantial investment in quality packaging formats such as highend gift boxes and marketing. In addition to supplying foodservice outlets, we see tremendous opportunities to develop highend retail business. To enable us to harness the product’s potential, especially as a gift incentive, we have developed a very distinctive wooden box that emphasises the quality of the salmon.

“What sets our smoked salmon apart is the total control over farming, harvesting, curing and distribution operations. The salmon also benefits enormously from the location of the farms in the healthy and invigorating waters of the Atlantic.”

The company strengthened its marketing team ahead of the launch of the new product, and has been marketing the smoked salmon at international events.

Consumers develop a taste for old fashioned minerals P apas Minerals, a Bangor-based specialist in traditional non-alcoholic drinks, has experienced a significant rise in sales to customers in Britain and the Republic of Ireland over the past year.

The company produces old-fashioned beverages such as ginger wine, including a sugar-free version, as well as cordials with elderflower, clove and spiced winterberry flavours, sarsaparilla and a traditional

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lemonade. The beverages are produced from original recipes without artificial flavours, colours or sweeteners.

Papas Minerals supplies beverages to over 60 independent retailers in Northern Ireland and has also seen exports grow, particularly to England and Scotland, over the last few years via its web presence and referrals from existing customers.

“We are finding increasingly that people of all ages are looking for different tastes from artisan producers who have total control over their products,” said Wayne Adair, who founded the business in 2004 and is managing director.

“I guess we are probably also benefiting from the craft beer and ale revolution that’s currently sweeping Northern Ireland. Our minerals are all handcrafted and bottled from original recipes and using traceable ingredients. Customers can count on different flavours from consistently high quality non-alcoholic beverages.

“I originally thought that some of the products such as clove and winter berry cordials would be seasonal but this hasn’t been the case because they are now in demand the year round.”

Papas Minerals produces its range of soft drinks in 750ml bottles, also hand labelled.”

ARTISAN FOODS

Fudge business targets coffee houses with new product B

elfast-based Blackthorn Foods is launching a new product aimed at coffee shops and tea houses in the UK and Republic of Ireland.

The artisan company has developed a 22g finger fudge, which will be available in three flavours, as a quick snack ideal for serving with coffee and tea. The company has also launched Luxury Toffees, a caramel product with Belgian chocolate.

Blackthorn Foods, which was created in 2004 and is run by sisters Jenny Lowry, Cathy Johnston and Dorothy Bittles, has signed a deal with Fine Foods to handle distribution of the new fudge in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Blackthorn is also seeking a distributor in GB, where the company’s existing range of fudge bars is handled by Hider Foods and retailed in upmarket outlets such as Partridges in London.

“The agreement with Fine Foods is a key element of our strategic focus on expanding our sales throughout the island of Ireland,” said Lowry. “The distributor, which is based in Lisburn, Co Antrim, has a significant network across the island including the type of coffee houses and cafes that we have targeted for the new finger fudge bar.

“Market demand for the old fashioned fudge that’s handcrafted using only natural ingredients is growing strongly in Europe and further afield.

“We’ll be marketing new and existing fudge products at major international shows this year including Alimentaria in Barcelona, Gulfood in Dubai and ANUGA in Cologne.

“We’ve seen business in Europe grow significantly over the past year and are determined to build on this success by strengthening our position in markets that we’ve penetrated and to explore opportunities developing in new markets such as the Middle East.”

Artisan duo create awardwinning chocolate flavour A

chocolate bar created collaboratively by Belfast businesses Co Couture and Suki Teahouse – milk chocolate with a Japanese Cherry Sencha infusion – was awarded a silver medal in the prestigious World Final International Chocolate Awards at the end of 2014.

“The judging panel comprised experts, food journalists, bloggers, chefs, sommeliers and pastry chefs and attracted fine chocolate makers from across the globe,” said Deirdre McCanny, owner of Co Couture. “The awards are designed to reflect international tastes and celebrate and recognise traditional craft companies such as Co Couture.

Oscar Woolley, managing director of Suki Tea, and Deirdre McCanny, owner of Co Couture.

“The combination of this fine chocolate and Suki Tea’s Japanese Cherry Sencha blend has given this bar the filling needed to secure silver in this highly competitive category.”

Oscar Woolley, managing director of Suki Tea, said: “The award highlights the versatility of our gourmet teas now being recognised in Britain and further afield.”

The International Chocolate Awards is an independent competition recognising excellence in fine chocolate making and in the products made with fine chocolate. Founded in 2012, the event is run by a group of international partners based in the UK, Italy and the US.

Pictured are, from left, Chris Mawhinney, executive head chef and Michael Young, executive sous chef, at the Hilton Hotel in Belfast, with Will Taylor, managing director, Glastry Farm Ice Cream.

Ling Honey ice cream launched by NI artisan business

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orthern Ireland’s award-winning Glastry Farm Ice Cream has launched a new Ling Heather Honey flavour. The farm based ice-cream and low fat sorbet maker has teamed up with a leading local beekeeper, Michael Young, to create the new flavour using honey from bees on the heather clad mountains around Limavady in Co Derry.

The new honey ice cream was created at the suggestion of Chris Mawhinney, executive head chef of the Hilton Hotel in Belfast. Mawhinney introduced Will Taylor, to Young, chairman of the Northern Ireland Institute of Beekeepers and a sous chef at the Hilton.

“We’ve always been keen to look at new flavours using ingredients from local suppliers,” said Taylor. “Last year, for example, we launched a stout ice cream using Belfast Black stout from Whitewater Brewing Company in Co Down. It’s proving to be a popular development.”

The small company has won a string of quality awards from organisations including the UK Great Taste Awards.

The range currently features 20 ice creams and four lowfat sorbets.

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FOOD PROFILE Peter Hannan

Great Taste Awards success opens new markets for Hannan Meats P

eter Hannan has turned a successful catering butchery business focused on the Northern Ireland market, Hannan Meats in Moira, into an award-winning enterprise with fast growing sales in Britain, the Republic of Ireland, France and Portugal. His sales have grown 67% in the past three years, averaging 22% a year. Imaginative marketing initiatives already underway will see his business expand substantially in these markets and others, including Germany.

Hannan has achieved success through a commitment to market-focused beef and bacon products for the premium end of foodservice and a close working relationship with top chefs on developing new taste experiences. He’s also benefited, particularly in PR terms and reputation as an innovator, from a longstanding engagement with the UK Guild of Fine Food’s annual Great Taste Awards.

He’s the first to admit that success in awards for his beef and bacon has opened doors in Europe and further afield. He has amassed an amazing 127 gold stars in the awards over the past four years, substantially more than any food company in the British Isles and a Supreme Champion title in 2011/12. He’s also had more products listed in the Top 50 Foods than any other food business.

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He has amassed an amazing 127 gold stars in the Great Taste Awards.”

Success in the awards has showcased his commitment to food that combines outstanding taste and innovation; a winning combination that has produced huge PR coverage in Britain and other parts of Europe.

It’s also led to substantial business from celebrity chefs such as Mark Hix in London and a cluster of Michelin star restaurants in Paris. Christmas saw a remarkable flurry for social media exchanges endorsing his beef from top chefs Brett Sutton, Greg Nicholson and Michael Deane, respected food writers Xanthe Clay, Val Warner and Nigel Bardon and from celebrity actress Liz Hurley!

Hannan’s beef was chosen by UK Trade and Investment for showcase dinners at the Foreign Office in London and for events in Ankara and Hong Kong. In addition to his success in foodservice, Hannan is now the main beef supplier to Fortnum and Mason,

the ‘Queen’s Grocer’. It’s a fair bet that his beef has featured on royal dining tables.

But retail is largely secondary to high-end restaurants, his primary market niche that he knows exceptionally well. Hannan’s only other significant retail activity is the hugely successful Meat Merchant shop in Moira.

His focus on innovation is best seen in his investment in two Himalayan Salt Chambers for ageing beef to achieve distinctively delicious flavours. He now operates the world’s biggest Himalayan salt-ageing business and has plans to develop this further in 2015 to meet the growing demand for his meats.

The strategy for the business he set up in 1989, and currently employs 30 people, recognises the key contribution from suppliers; the farmers who provide the raw material for him to transform into exceptional beef. They receive a premium price in return for quality beef. The supply chain includes shorthorn cattle raised on an organic estate at Glenarm.

Dedication to original food and innovative dishes is certainly in his DNA. His success in Britain, especially among influential food writers and stylists, is also helping to establish Northern Ireland as a European centre of gastronomic excellence.

FOOD PROFILE

Award-winning GM Marketing adds value to the customer experience

By Steve McDonagh, sales & marketing co-ordinator at GM Marketing HOW WAS BUSINESS IN 2014?

2014 was a good but challenging year for GM Marketing; I think it has been a challenging year for the whole grocery industry. Increased competition and changing consumer trends have meant that we have had to work harder and smarter this year. A key focus for GM in 2014 was greater collaboration with our customers and our principals; this resulted in another year of growth for the company and helped us further develop our presence in the RoI market place.

been put into launching Free’ist had paid off.

WHAT WERE THE KEY DEVELOPMENTS? A key development for the company in 2014 was to improve the added value we offered to our customers and principals. To help us do this, we invested significantly in technology; this investment included launching a customer relationship management system and a trade e-commerce site to allow our customers to order online 24/7. There was some exciting NPD from our principals in 2014, with Nestlé

WHAT PLANS AND EXPECTATIONS HAS GM MARKETING FOR 2015?

We are very excited about 2015 and expect another year of growth, by continuing to develop our relationships with our current customers and principals and also add some new business to our portfolio. We have some big plans for the year ahead to further establish GM Marketing as the first choice for ‘taking products places’.

WHAT WERE THE HIGH AND LOW POINTS OF THE PAST YEAR? Obviously winning the UG Marketing Award was one of the highlights of 2014, along with the continued development of the Free’ist brand both in Ireland and the UK. One of the challenges over the last couple of months has been the new Food Information Regulations (FIR), and working with our principals and customers to ensure everything was compliant.

Cereals launching their first ever Gluten Free cereal offering for the growing free from market place.

It was a great honour for the company to win the best new product launch at the UG Marketing Awards. We were up against some stiff competition, so it was great recognition that all the hard work and effort that had

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FOOD PROFILE

Building a world-class brand of Irish beef

BY AMANDA FERGUSON

Maurice Kettyle

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aurice Kettyle is managing director of Kettyle Irish Foods in Lisnaskea, Co Fermanagh, which is part of the Linden Food Group.

The multi-species business – producing beef, lamb, pork and chicken for restaurants and retail – employs 50 people and has a turnover of around £12m.

Its products have won a series of awards including the European Guild of Writers Award for its free range chicken, 26 gold stars in the Great Taste Awards over the last three years, a runner-up prize in this year’s UTV Business Awards in the SME section and a Best Steak of Year award from 2008-2010.

After A-Levels at school Maurice decided to work in the meat industry and farm at the same time.

The “farmer’s boy” told Ulster Grocer his career has been “all about meat, cattle, livestock”.

“I was working on the family farm and buying cattle for factories and trading in meat before I moved into working for some of the bigger international meat companies,” he said.

“I ran a meat factory and trading company in Sudan for a few years, international trading into Jordan, Syria, Egypt and so on.

“If I hadn’t moved back toward the farm I could still be there.”

Over a decade ago Maurice decided to build a world-class Irish brand of beef and help give Ireland a better market position in the industry.

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There was no reason why we shouldn’t have been one of the best brands in the world, with the grass and infrastructure, but for some reason even the likes of Scotland had a much better market position than Ireland had.”

Kettyle Irish Foods is now in its 11th year, with Linden becoming a major shareholder in 2008.

“We were very bad marketers of products within Ireland and I could understand that working on international markets,” he said.

“There was no reason why we shouldn’t have been one of the best brands in the world, with the grass and infrastructure, but for some reason even the likes of Scotland had a much better market position than Ireland had.

“A lot of Irish beef was going to Scotland and being rebranded as Scottish and then going to the restaurants in London with a premium so the model we set up was to have the very best of Irish.

“The model was very much one of transparency as we felt the farmer only knew as far as the factory, the factory knew as far as the wholesaler and the wholesaler maybe

knew the chef so we had to go through a change were we educated the chef and the farmer at either side of the chain so that everybody knew what the end consumer needed.”

When Kettyle Irish Foods opened, it sold meat to a handful of restaurateurs including Belfast’s Paul Rankin and Michael Deane, Ross Lewis in Chapter One in Dublin, Rules in Covent Garden but now has hundreds of high end restaurants on its books.

And one of its main customers since 2006 has been the retailer Marks and Spencer.

Last year it sold about £3.5m of goods to M&S, equating to 33% of its business.

“Around 60% of what we do is beef,” Maurice said.

“What we are known for on the maturation side is dry aged. We were one of the first to do dry ageing protocol maturation on beef.”

SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS

Sustainability in the grocery supply chain For the grocery sector and its supply and service partners, from producers and manufacturers through to packaging and logistics providers, sustainability initiatives are gaining traction as part of their CSR programmes and a drive to improve efficiencies and ultimately reduce operational costs.

New report highlights sustainable food price issue F ood companies face the challenge of consumers not willing to pay a premium for high standards, according to a new report The Long and the Short of It. Produced by the Sustainable Food Supply Chain Commission, which included academics from the University of Warwick, The Long and the Short of It says: ‘Companies that aspire to promoting social and environmental sustainability in their supply chains are competing with other companies that may not share those aspirations’.

While the Commission found there is considerable scope for the market to reward aspirations for high standards, there is also a limit ‘to how much companies can expect consumers to pay for higher standards – a limit in terms of the premium that consumers will be willing to pay and also in terms of the market share that can be commanded’.

Organised by the Industry and Parliament

Trust in collaboration with the University of Warwick’s Global Research Priority on Food and the Food Ethics Council, the Sustainable Food Supply Chain Commission included academics, parliamentarians and representatives from the agricultural and food industries.

“The Sustainable Food Supply Chain Commission has affirmed the considerable complexity of the ‘food system’ and the substantial linkages and interdependencies between the environmental, social and economic aspects of sustainability,” said Professor Rosemary Collier, report Commissioner, director of the University of Warwick’s Crop Centre and one of the academic leads for the Food GRP. The report’s findings form the basis of a delegation to the European Commission and meetings with the European Parliament’s Agriculture and Rural Development

Committee. Paul Brannen MEP and Anthea McIntyre MEP – Member and Substitute Member of the European Parliament’s Agriculture and Rural Development Committee respectively – were both present to discuss the report with Commissions.

The Long and the Short of It investigated five issues surrounding the challenges of maintaining a sustainable food supply chain: • How the Market Operates • Volunteerism or Regulation • Engaging with People as Citizens and Consumers • Certification and other Assurance Schemes • Investing in Supply Chains For more information on the Sustainable Food Supply Chains Report, visit: http://www.ipt.org.uk/sustainable-foodsupply-chain-commission.aspx

Huhtamaki cracks down on energy consumption T

he Northern Ireland division of global packaging giant, Huhtamaki, has received a Platinum Award for energy conservation standards in this year’s Business in the Community’s Environmental Benchmarking Survey.

Competing against 103 participating organisations, Huhtamaki (Lurgan) topped sustainability polls with an impressive score of 91% compared to the 74% average, making it one of only 16 companies in Northern Ireland to earn a Platinum Award.

“Sustainability and ecological welfare is of huge importance to Huhtamaki, here in Lurgan and indeed globally,” said Philip Woolsey, managing director of Huhtamaki Lurgan. “In the three years between 2010-2013, we have significantly reduced our energy usage by 19% with 89% of waste generated being diverted from landfill, something we’re hugely proud of.

“We recognise that as a large-scale manufacturer, we have a responsibility to the conservation of our surrounding environment and endeavour to improve sustainability standards within the manufacturing sector.

“Over the years, we have identified a number of closed loop solutions that have enabled us to significantly reduce our carbon footprint and crack down on energy consumption levels.

“Any waste generated onsite for instance, is recycled in house and then used to make our egg cartons and other moulded fibre products, which in turn are 100% biodegradable, compostable and recyclable themselves.

Pictured are, from left, Patricia McCambridge, programme manager for Business in the Community, and Philip Woolsey, managing director of Huhtamaki Lurgan.

“We’re delighted to receive this Platinum award in recognition of our environmental efforts and demonstrate further that we can all contribute to a more sustainable future.”

Employing over 200 employees from across the province, Huhtamaki Lurgan operates within the Group’s moulded fibre segment and is the sole producer of egg cartons and coffee cup carriers in the UK and Ireland, supplying to a number of high profile food retailers such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s and M&S. 55

SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS

UU offers new course in sustainability management

U

lster University Business School has teamed up with Business in the Community to offer a new Managers for the Future programme.

The programme is designed to equip participants with practical insights and skills to drive positive, sustainable change in their organisation.

It aims to help managers understand the scale of change required to address key sustainability challenges and provide an insight into innovative new approaches and responses that will inspire and support action. The programme uses a format which can be tailored to individual business needs.

Participants will: • Learn about key theories, models and frameworks supporting corporate responsibility and sustainability in management practice.

• Hear directly from industry speakers about their practical experience.

• Participate in best practice visits to organisations engaging in ‘best in class’ sustainable business practice.

• Learn with peers from a wide range of organisations and sectors.

• Benefit from the combined experience of Business in the Community Northern Ireland and the Business Institute, Ulster University Business School.

For more information, go to http://www. bitcni.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/ Managers-for-the-Future_Amended.pdf

Tayto Group saves £72,000 using transport telematics T

he Tayto Group has cut its annual fuel spend by £72,000, and drastically reduced its carbon footprint, by using TomTom Telematics technology to transform driver behaviour.

The Armaghbased crisp manufacturer has boosted miles per gallon by 15%, by reducing both speeding and idling through a programme to improve driving performance.

The scheme is underpinned by Webfleet, TomTom’s SaaS fleet management platform, which allows Tayto to monitor aspects of driving style, including speeding, acceleration, fuel efficiency, idling time and harsh steering or braking.

“By gaining unprecedented insight into the behaviour of our drivers, we have been able to address areas of poor performance and drastically reduce inefficiency in the operation of our vehicle fleet,” said Peter Rush, purchasing and fleet manager at Tayto.

“The data delivered by Webfleet provided the perfect starting point for us to work with our staff in order to help them better understand where improvements could be made and, ultimately, become better, safer and more environmentally-aware drivers.”

Tayto worked in partnership with TomTom reseller partner Fleet Simplicity to develop processes that allowed them to make best use of the data provided to meet their specific business goals.

Drivers are provided with weekly communications on speeding, idling and driver behaviour, as well as twice-weekly fuel awareness updates, monthly group reviews and targeted training. Webfleet also profiles each driver, giving them an Optidrive score from one to 10 based on how safely and efficiently they are driving in terms of speeding, incidences of harsh steering or braking and MPG. As a result of being able to manage and communicate using the score, Tayto achieved a 42% improvement in average Optidrive score in 12 months.

FTA launches Carbon Reduction Awards for 2015 T

he Freight Transport Association has launched the Logistics Carbon Reduction Scheme (LCRS) Awards for 2015, designed to recognise the efforts made by individual scheme members to reduce their carbon emissions from freight activity.

As the LCRS reaches its fifth anniversary, members of the scheme are determined to play their part in tackling the climate change challenge and work to reduce their carbon emissions in various ways, including improved fuel efficiency, use of green fuels and technologies, developing low carbon innovations and switching to rail and water modes.

Following the success of the LCRS Awards in 2013 and 2014, FTA is launching six categories for 2015 including one new 56

category specifically for those companies within the LCRS membership that have smaller fleets but nevertheless the same ambition as larger operators to improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

The categories are: • Fuel efficient operator of the year (sponsored by Bridgestone) • Excellence in modal shift (sponsored by Intermodality) • Green fuel and technology operator of the year • Logistics carbon innovator of the year • Leader in logistics carbon reduction • Smaller fleet operator of the year The LCRS Awards will be presented at FTA’s annual Logistics Carbon Reduction

Conference, to be held in on May 13.

“Over the past two years the LCRS Awards have become an established event in the transport calendar, giving fleet operators the opportunity to earn recognition for the efforts they are making to improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions,” said Rachael Dillon, climate change policy manager at FTA. “We are delighted to be launching the Awards for 2015, including one new category which is designed to celebrate the efforts made by smaller fleet operators, especially as the LCRS celebrates its fifth anniversary this month.

The Awards signal to customers, stakeholders, policymakers and the public that the freight industry is making significant efforts to contribute to solving the climate change challenge.”

SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS

‘Clean cold’ technologies breakthrough at Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) awards T

he urgent need to develop sustainable transport refrigeration systems has been recognised for the first time by a prestigious motor industry competition.

Two of the six companies on the shortlist of the 2014 SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders) Award for Automotive Innovation announced late last year are developing innovative cooling technologies to reduce the impact of the highly polluting secondary diesel engines used on most refrigerated trucks today.

With investment in cold logistics booming around the world, it is a timely recognition of the inevitable damage to the environment and human health if the exponential growth in diesel refrigeration goes unchecked, and of the arrival of a potentially multi-billion pound market in ‘clean cold’ technologies.* The diesel powered Transport Refrigeration Unit (TRU) is the trucking industry’s big challenge. While truck propulsion engines are tightly regulated in the EU and increasingly clean, the secondary ‘donkey engines’ used to power TRUs on many trucks and all articulated trailers are effectively unregulated and emit grossly disproportionate amounts of toxic air pollution. Over the course of a year, a modern trailer TRU emits six times as much nitrogen dioxide (NOx) and 29 times as much particulate matter (PM) as the Euro VI propulsion engine pulling it around. This kind of pollution is estimated to cause 29,000 premature deaths in Britain each year*, over 400,000 across the EU,* and 600,000

in India in 2010 alone.* Refrigeration also accounts for around 20% of a truck’s diesel consumption and CO2 emissions.

The two companies are working to reduce the impact of TRUs: Carrier Transicold, part of the US giant United Technologies, has developed a diesel-fuelled system incorporating CO2 in place of conventional synthetic refrigerants, now being trialled by Sainsbury’s. The Dearman Engine Company, a British start-up, received Highly Commended status in the awards and is developing a zero-emission engine to completely replace incumbent diesel fuelled transport refrigeration systems. Dearman’s highly efficient refrigeration system extracts both cooling and power from the phase-change expansion of liquid air or liquid nitrogen.

The system is based on a novel piston engine invented by Peter Dearman in his garden shed in Bishop’s Stortford, and would repay its investment in under three months.

The Dearman Engine Company is working on the first application of the engine with Hubbard Products, to drive the motor in a transport refrigeration unit (TRU). Part of the worldwide Zanotti group, Hubbard Products is the UK’s principal designer, manufacturer and supplier of refrigeration systems and units and the leaders in refrigeration for commercial vehicles and refrigerated vans. The technology will be undergoing on-vehicle trials in December at MIRA (formerly the Motor Industry Research Association), which will be followed by commercial trials in 2015 and the manufacture of the first engines in 2016.

Air pollution is rising rapidly up the political agenda in Europe, where the European Commission has started enforcement action against the UK for persistently breaking legal limits on emissions of nitrogen dioxide, which could eventually result in fines of €300m per year.

A separate ruling by the European Court of Justice in November 2014 also obliges the government to clean up Britain’s air pollution, and applies equally to other EU member states.* Because diesel TRUs are so polluting, the impact of even a modest fleet of Dearman units could be huge. A recent report from the Liquid Air Energy Network (LAEN)* found that a projected fleet of just 13,000 Dearman liquid air refrigerated trailers would reduce NOx emissions by the same amount as taking 80,000 Euro VI trucks or 1.2 million Euro VI diesel cars off the road. It would be the PM equivalent of removing 367,000 such trucks from service – more than three times the entire UK articulated truck fleet today – or 2.2 million Euro VI diesel cars.

The implications of this technology are global. In the UK, online food shopping is growing fast, with the market set to double in value over the next five years to £13bn, according to market researchers IGD. If the additional refrigerated vehicles needed to deliver all this food are not made more eco-friendly, the environmental and health impacts in urban areas could be serious. * According to figures provided by SMMT

Donnelly Group showcases world’s first plug-in hybrid D

onnelly Group Mitsubishi recently hosted a series of events for members of the business community promoting the incredible tax benefits of the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle), the world’s first plug-in hybrid 4x4 SUV. With the vehicle featuring the same batter technology used in Apollo 11, the seminars were launched at Armagh Planetarium.

Experts from the Donnelly Mitsubishi Dungannon, Eglinton and Mallusk showrooms were on hand at all the events to explain how with just 5% Benefit in Kind (BiK) over 12 months, a company car driver can enjoy a virtual pay rise of thousands of pounds with the Outlander PHEV, making it the perfect choice for business owners.

Hailed as the green fleet gamechanger, the vehicle is capable of 148 miles per gallon, requires no Vehicle Excise Duty to be paid and is the only SUV eligible for the Government’s £5,000 Plug-In Car Grant.

Armagh Planetarium was the setting for the launch of a series of seminars urging business owners to consider the tax benefits associated with investing in the new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.

57

MARKETING NEWS

Marketing activity backs new WKD Vegas launch

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nveiling its new Limited Edition for 2015, Northern Ireland’s leading RTD brand1, WKD, has journeyed to Las Vegas for inspiration for this year’s Limited Edition.

In-store from January 5, WKD Vegas takes its cue from the vibrant nightlife and neons associated with the world-famous Vegas Strip.

Available in 275ml four-packs and 70cl multi-serve bottles, the WKD logo on the bottles has been transformed into a Vegas-style sign while the four-pack and outer case graphics convey the colour and atmosphere of Vegas at night, creating high impact stand-out on-shelf and cut-through in a busy fixture.

WKD Vegas will be available until December 2015, and will retail at the same price points as the other variants in the WKD range.*

The launch is being supported via a heavyweight social and online digital media campaign; extensive consumer sampling activity; launch/introductory price promotions; provision of free-standing display units and free Vegas-themed POS kits; and tailormade wholesale/cash & carry activity. The new line will also benefit from the halo effect of the support for the WKD brand.

Brand owner SHS Drinks will also be inserting promotional leaflets into cases of WKD Blue (24 x 275ml and 6 x 70cl PMPs) to alert retailers to the arrival of the new Limited Edition, and in convenience/independent retail stores consumer awareness will be driven at point-of-purchase via neck labels asking ‘Have you tried new WKD Vegas?’ on 70cl PMP bottles of WKD Blue, WKD Red and WKD Iron Brew. The WKD 70cl PMP stock featuring the WKD Vegas neck labels is exclusive to the wholesale/cash & carry/convenience/independent retail sectors.

“The success of WKD Brazilian Limited Edition this year, which generated approaching £1.5m-worth of sales2, has demonstrated that there is a real appetite amongst consumers for Limited Editions from WKD,” said Debs Carter, marketing director – Alcohol, at SHS Drinks.

1: Nielsen Scantrack NI Take Home RTD category volume (L) & value (£) share MAT to 08.11.14; 2: Nielsen Scantrack Total GB Take Home RTD category Value £ MAT to 08.11.14 & CGA GB on-trade RTD category and value (£) MAT to 06.09.14; *WKD Vegas will replace WKD Brazilian ceased distribution at the end of December.

Belfast to host Red Bull Crashed Ice event B

elfast is to stage one of the four stops of the Red Bull Crashed Ice World Series 2015, on the grounds of Stormont Estate over February 20-21.

Over 100 competitors will take part in the action-packed race on a heart-pumping assault course specifically designed for Belfast and positioned in front of Parliament Buildings, while 40,000 spectators are expected over the two-day event.

Red Bull Crashed Ice is a world series in the winter extreme sporting event of ice cross downhill. It is a four-man full-contact, high-speed, downhill ice skating race along a 440-metre track, with steep turns and vertical drops, reaching speeds of up to 60 km/h in a timed battle, where the first to the bottom wins. The energy and competitive spirit of Red Bull Crashed Ice makes for a breath-taking spectacle and a hugely entertaining event for all.

Belfast has been selected as one of the four stops to host this major sporting event, and is the only non-winter sports location on the tour which will also take in Saint Paul, Minnesota in the UK, Helsinki in Finland and Edmonton in Canada.

It will take three weeks to construct the world-class course on the Stormont Estate, and the event will be broadcast live around the world.

“The World Series has grown massively over recent years and in bringing it to a non-winter sports location such as Belfast, its popularity will only continue to rise with a new and excited audience,” said 58

Christian Papillon, sports director at Red Bull Crashed Ice. “The Belfast track will be one of a kind, a rhythm track that Ice Cross Downhill has never seen before, where athletes and spectators are sure to have an action packed experience.”

Finance Minister Simon Hamilton is pictured at the announcement that Belfast will stage one of the four stops of the Red Bull Crashed Ice World Series 2015 on the grounds of Stormont Estate.

ULSTER GROCER MARKETING AWARDS

a ma nnua l rk aw etin ar g ds

If you’re not in, you can’t win A new category is added as the 2015 round of the prestigious Ulster Grocer Marketing Awards opens for entries

ULSTER

Market ingAwards

40 years At the heart of the Northern Ireland food industry

2015

E

ntries are now open for the 27th annual Ulster Grocer Marketing Awards, which will culminate with winners announced during the GroceryAid Ulster Grocers’ Gala Ball at the Culloden Hotel on Friday, May 22.

The Gala Ball has been a highlight of the grocery trade’s social calendar for many

ULSTER

years, with all reverence going to GroceryAid – the grocer’s benevolent fund formerly known as Caravan.

The Awards are open to any company involved in retail grocery trading, from products to suppliers and wholesalers, as well as individual retail outlets. The Awards are always hard fought with each category

well represented and, as a result, are widely regarded as the highest marketing accolade businesses can achieve in the sector.

The Ulster Grocer Marketing Awards are recognised as a mark of professionalism, and raises the profile of companies not only winning in their category but also those short-listed.

Sponsored by:

Market ingAwards

40 years At the heart of the Northern Ireland food industry

2015

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

59

ULSTER GROCER MARKETING AWARDS

Looking back at the Ulster Grocer Marketing Awards 2014 L

ast year’s Awards saw a dozen local food businesses and retailers walk away with Ulster Grocer Marketing Awards, watched by over 400 representatives from the local grocery, food, drink and marketing sectors attending the Gala Ball. And the 2014 event raised £45,000 for GroceryAid. Best Marketing Campaign went to Mackle Petfoods.

Gwen Rafferty, sales & marketing manager, said: “Mackle Petfoods was delighted to win the Best 2013 Marketing Campaign for our flagship brand, Brandy. As a local Northern Irish Company, we are proud of our achievement and recognition in such a competitive category!

“Brandy was successfully re-launched, with the key brand message that dogs are not just a pet, but an important member of the family and so we only want to feed them the best. We endeavoured not only to achieve a short term impact within the duration of the campaign itself, but also to develop a brand message that is fully integrated, sustainable and can continue into the future.

“Brandy, because they’re 100% Family” The Ulster Grocer Marketing Awards are judged by an expert panel which, last year, commenting on the winning Best Marketing Campaign entry: ‘Mackle Petfoods has demonstrated marketing professionalism. The overriding objective was clearly one of brand awareness but trying to put value behind that. A broad selection of media was used to achieve that end; it’s a wonderful piece of work.’

Meagan Green, former Miss Northern Ireland Claire McCann and Gwen Rafferty (Mackle Pet Foods) and Joanne Curran (AV Browne).

To book a table at the Awards, please don’t delay. Contact : Mark Gowdy (mark.gowdy@whiteoats.com) or David Neill (david.neill@kerry.ie).

So what are you waiting for?

This is a prime opportunity to generate positive PR, raise your company profile within the grocery sector, boost staff morale, target potential customers and network with key clients who will be in attendance at the Gala Ball.

Register your interest today!

Download an entry form and see the full list of entry requirements on the website www.ulstergrocer.com Call: Mark Beckett on 028 90783235 Email: markbeckett@greerpublications.com Fee: An administration fee of £100 plus VAT will be charged to enter **All entries will benefit from editorial coverage in the magazine.

Entries must be received by Tuesday 31st March.

8 • •Ulster 3660 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

The 2015 Categories ULSTER GROCER perspective MARKETING AWARDS

Best Marketing Campaign 2014

This may be a corporate, brand or project campaign and food suppliers, grocery wholesalers and grocery retailers are all eligible to enter. While the subject matter of the campaign may be any aspect of retail grocery, the marketing campaign should include some or all of the following elements – Press, TV, radio, outdoor, in-store POS/ merchandising, PR, website, leaflets, digital and SMS.

Best In-Store Consumer Sales Promotion This could be a stand-alone or even a joint promotion between two companies - for example, two manufacturers/brand owners running a crosspromotion on complementary products or a retail group and a manufacturer working together on a promotion running across a group of stores, or an individual retailer working independently with a manufacturer/brand owner to run a unique promotion that is exclusive to one store.

Best Brand Sponsored by

Best product brand open to all brands serving the grocery wholesale and retail sector. Judges will examine the effectiveness of brands in relation to communication, advertising and promotional campaigns, distribution effectiveness, brand visibility and customer loyalty.

Green Retailer of the Year Sponsored by

This category is open to retailers who have adopted effective ‘green’ management systems and product selection. The judges will look for evidence of good supply sources, in-store handling procedures, and meeting customer expectations.

Best New Product Launch/Relaunch This category is open to brand owners and includes new product launches as well as the relaunch of existing products

Best Artisan Food Product Campaign

Best CSR Initiative/ Charity Partnership

This category is open to the manufacturers, wholesalers or retailers behind Artisan Food campaigns in the sector. The campaign entered can include one or all of the following media - radio, television, print, outdoor, in-store, merchandising and digital.

Sponsored by

Best Food Export Marketing Award The best Corporate Social Responsibility or Charity Partnership Initiative category is open to any company operating in the retail grocery sector, from food manufacturers/suppliers to wholesalers and individual retailers.

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

This award will recognise and celebrate the hard work and dedication of Northern Ireland foodproducing companies which have taken the bold step into exporting, and are marketing their products outside the country successfully.

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My Life in the Grocery Trade David Neill, national accounts manager, Kerry Foods I am responsible for managing the day-to-day running of the accounts and ensuring that we have continuous growth in the categories that we play a part in.

WHEN DID YOU TAKE UP THIS POST? I took up my current post in 2013 following a secondment with Kerry implementing SAP across Kerry Food GB and Ireland.

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT ROLE? My current role is working as a national accounts manager for Kerry Foods.

BRIEFLY OUTLINE YOUR EMPLOYMENT HISTORY TO DATE My first job was back in 1987 with T.A.Shillington’s & Son (Ltd), now Haldane and Fisher, as a trainee manager. I then changed job in 1988 to work for Wesleyan Assurance. I took a career break and headed to Finland in 1989 with the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster exchange program; upon my return I started to work for Kerry Foods as a relief van sales man. I have now been with Kerry for over 25 years.

WHAT DOES YOUR ROLE INVOLVE? My current role involves looking after the Henderson’s and Poundland accounts for all of the Kerry Food’s wide range of products.

3662• Ulster Grocer | JANUARY 2011

WHAT ARE THE BEST/WORST PARTS OF YOUR JOB? The worst part of the job is working with very short shelf life products and managing the stock and service level to the customers at key periods, the best part is getting this right. Also, the best part of working for Kerry has been all the great people that I have managed to work with, from retailers to colleagues.

It always gives me a great satisfaction when we launch a new product and you see the sales coming through to the bottom line.

BRIEFLY OUTLINE A TYPICAL DAY This is a difficult one as there is no such thing really as a typical day. My time is spent interacting with the commercial teams in the businesses that I deal with – watching their orders coming in, managing stocks and running reports to ensure that we maximise the category opportunity to both our companies’ mutual benefit. I also do store visits to see competitor activity, category plans and monitor consumer/retailer reaction to our promotions.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE PROUDEST MOMENT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE? There are so many, from launching Low Low,

Oldstyle ham for the deli counter, training people in BI reports, but if I had to pick one it would be starting in Kerry and being involved in the growth of the Denny brand to the number one brand in all of the categories that it operates in.

WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT BEING INVOLVED WITH THE LOCAL RETAIL INDUSTRY? Being involved in the local industry means you live and breathe it every day, but the best bit is that I get home to my family every night.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO TO UNWIND AWAY FROM WORK? If you were to ask my wife that question she would say that I lie on the couch and shout orders. However, we keep exhibition poultry so in the showing season we are washing and drying birds. I am lucky that my two boys help with the feeding and cleaning out of them. I also go for the occasional walk with a fellow colleague along the Newry Canal towpath. In the summer it is the vegetable patch and building new pens, etc. for our chickens.

In the winter I follow the two boys playing rugby on a Saturday whilst my wife takes our daughter to Irish dancing and on a Saturday night it is sauna time, the perfect way to relax.

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF THAT NOT MANY PEOPLE MAY KNOW As a child I had the measles and stopped talking for a year, I have been trying to make up for that year ever since.

EXPORT NEWS

Local bakery wins business in Dubai D

romore-based Graham’s Bakery has won its first business with one of the biggest supermarkets in the United Arab Emirates, supplying a new range of mini-bite cakes and biscuits.

The family-owned and managed bakery, which employs 30 people, has recently started supplying Spinneys in Dubai with a mini bite range including shortbread biscuits, brownies, Viennese whirls and swiss rolls.

It follows business won with Ocado, the online retailer.

The company has been assisted by Pan Euro Foods in Dublin in developing the business and in the delivery of products to Dubai.

“This is a very significant contract in terms of the quality of the customer, the range of cakes that we are supplying and the extent of the business,” said Tim Graham, sales and marketing director at Graham’s.

“Spinneys is one of the biggest and most successful retailers in the Middle East and especially in the Emirates where it has an extensive network of retail outlets.

“We are shipping our mini range, which we launched in September to help expand our sales outside Northern Ireland, the most important element in our business growth strategy, fresh from the bakery. There’s a developing market for the type of cakes and biscuits that we’ve developed using traditional bakery techniques.

“We appreciate greatly the enthusiastic support from Invest Northern

Ireland’s Food Marketing team for our marketing activities outside Northern Ireland which has enabled us to link up with Pan Euro Foods to supply Spinneys and also for brokering contracts with Ocado, the on-line supermarket in England and Scot Mid Co-op in Edinburgh.”

The products are air-freighted straight from the bakery to Dubai, by Pan Euro, and have a six week shelf-life.

New local brewer sets its sights on US market

Berry liqueur enjoys internet sales boost

James Huey

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alled City Brewing, the first craft brewery in Londonderry, has launched a new pale ale, Boom, to reflect the city’s heritage.

The ale, developed by James Huey, a brewer by trade, takes its name from cannons which are a feature of the city’s historic walls which date back to the 17th century and are now one of Northern Ireland’s biggest tourism attractions. It’s the first commercial brewery to be established in the city in more than a century.

Boom (ABV 4.2%) is brewed using American Amarillo hops for a tangy citrus aroma and flavour with a malty sweetness. The new beer, which Huey describes as a Derry Pale Ale, is available initially in 330ml bottles and is produced without preservatives. Huey, a former Diageo technical manager involved in breweries in Dublin and Dundalk, said: “My aim in setting up Walled City Brewing is to bring the craft beer revolution to Derry and to create products which reflect the history and traditions of one of the most important urban centres in Ireland.

“The beers are being distributed locally initially and in time throughout Ireland. I am also keen to develop distribution outside Northern Ireland to Britain and further afield especially the US because of its historic links with Ireland.”

A

ward-winning berry and Irish grain spirit liqueurs range RubyBlue is experiencing a substantial boost in sales following its recent listings by major Internet retailers Ocado and Amazon.

The distinctively flavoured liqueurs, developed by Hughes Craft Distillery in Lisburn, Co Antrim, are now also available in Luxembourg as a result of an agreement with a leading distribution business.

The new customers are now selling the company’s four-strong range of bottle-aged in Ireland – Wild Cranberry, Wild Blueberry, Wild Blackcurrant and Chilli Pepper.

The super-premium liqueurs, winner of a series of Spirit Masters and Great Taste Awards and a popular choice with mixologists, are produced in small batches from natural whole fruits, grain spirit and Irish spring water by the family-owned Craft Distillery.

“Winning business from such important Internet retailers as Ocado and Amazon gives us a very strong platform for faster growth, especially in Britain, our most important market and one we have targeted over many years,” said Barbara Hughes, commercial director of RubyBlue. “They also give us access to a potentially huge customer base of people who regularly shop on the Internet. The listings are the outcome of extensive taste tests and are marvellous endorsements of the quality and, above all, the unique flavours of our products.”

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AGRI-FOOD NEWS AGRI-FOOD ADVICE

Tax breaks for employees and attending college Seamus McCaffrey, managing director of Omaghbased Matrix Business Services, is an expert columnist for Ulster Grocer, covering tax and business issues.

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here a young person assists in the business, payment can be made for this work. In order for the payment to be allowable as a deduction in arriving at taxable profits, the young person must have reached his/her 13th birthday and the money must actually be paid. The amount claimed for tax purposes must be reasonable and proportionate to the age of the young person and the work done. A proper record must be maintained of the payments, and, when the person reaches 16 years, the National Insurance Number must be recorded. The young person must be included in the PAYE returns to Revenue & Customs.

If an employee who is working in the business and receives a salary attends college to do a relevant course, there is a further tax planning opportunity; provided a number of conditions are satisfied. In addition to paying the employee a salary for working in the business, the business can pay a training allowance to a maximum of £15,480 for an academic year: September 1 to August 31. The amount paid is an allowable expense in calculating the taxable profits of the business and is tax free and free of National Insurance in the hands of the employee. The business must ensure that the employee is enrolled as a student with a recognised educational establishment for at least one academic year and, that the employee attends for at least 26 weeks in that academic year. If the course is longer, the employee must attend for at least 20 weeks on average in an academic year over the life of the course. The amount of the Training Allowance paid to the employee does not require to be included in the PAYE returns to Revenue & Customs.

In order for the above arrangements to be tax effective, the course must be directly relevant to the trade carried on by the employer. Scholarships and bursaries held by a person attending a full-time course at a recognised college are exempt from income tax.

From April 6, 2014, there is a new Employment Allowance. From this date, a business is entitled to reduce the employers’ Class I National Insurance by up to £2,000 each tax year. You can only claim the £2,000 Employment Allowance against one PAYE scheme, even if the business runs multiple schemes. If the company belongs to a group of companies, only one company can claim the allowances. To claim the allowance, the employer ticks a yes/no indicator on the payroll software which is used to comply with the Real time Information (RTI) System. The employer will then off-set the allowance against each Class I National Insurance payment that is payable to Revenue & Customs until the allowance is fully claimed or the tax year ends. The allowance is available even where the only employee is a director in the company.

From April 6, 2015, Revenue & Customs have abolished employers’ National Insurance in respect of those employees aged under 21 years.

This will however, be restricted to those earning less than the Upper Earnings Limit which will be £40,285 per year or £813 a week in 2015/16.

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UFU Deputy President Ivor Ferguson congratulates Ian Duff on his appointment as campaign co-ordinator for the potato sector.

Northern Irish potato sector invests to halt decline in sales P otato farmers and packers in Northern Ireland have joined forces in a groundbreaking campaign to halt the decline in sales, with plans for a £120,000 promotional drive unveiled late in 2014.

The campaign is being driven by the recently established Northern Ireland Potato Promotion Stakeholder Group.

According to campaign co-ordinator Ian Duff, the campaign will be part-funded by the potato industry in Northern Ireland. The funding model for the promotional campaign envisages voluntary contributions from packers, ware and seed growers and the other sectors operating within the industry.

“This is not a funding model based on some form of statutory level,” he said. “Rather, we would like all interested parties to come forward on a voluntary basis.”

The initiative breaks new ground in terms of the voluntary funding model. It follows the launch by the British Council and Bord Bia of a £4.5m promotional campaign in Britain and the Republic to promote the potato industry. This will involve £2.5m from the EU, and the Northern Ireland group hopes to be able to access promotional funding from Brussels.

“There is no reason why we in Northern Ireland cannot go down this road in the future,” said Ivor Ferguson, chairman of the Potato Promotion Stakeholder Group.

“But a prerequisite to all of this will be the necessity for the Northern Ireland potato sector to demonstrate that it has the wherewithal to secure financial commitments from the various industry stakeholder groups.”

The potato sector generates around £23m (1.5%) of Northern Ireland’s gross agricultural output. Around 1% of the region’s land is used to grow potatoes, while 12% of farms grow upwards of 65% of potatoes.

Sales of potatoes have declined steadily in recent years as consumers have switched to pasta because of its versatility and convenience. The industry has sought to counter this by introducing small bags which are more convenient and also reduce waste.

AGRI-FOOD NEWS

Devenish sponsors 2015 European Angus Steak Tasting Competition A

nimal nutrition company Devenish is again sponsoring the European Angus Steak Tasting Competition in its fifth year, which will for the first time feature an added-value beef produce category.

“With the competition growing year-on-year, and with the introduction of a new class in the 2015 competition to accompany the steak, beef burger and beef sausage categories, it was absolutely vital that we continued to have the support of Devenish in staging the competition,” said Harry McGaffin, secretary of the European Angus Cattle Society.

Due to be held at CAFRE Loughry Campus in early 2015, the competition will once again seek to find the best steaks, beef burgers, beef sausages and gourmet beef sausages in the Province, along with the best in added-value beef produce.

“This new category, which has come about through demand, is very much an open category which will feature everything from pies to special recipe dishes that utilise locally produced beef as a major ingredient,” said McGaffin. “It adds another dimension to the competition and I believe this new category, like all the others, will be very well supported.”

Simon Caughey, marketing manager of Devenish, said: “We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with European Angus and to be supporting such a fabulous competition. It showcases all that is great

UK UNION LEADERS MEET TO DISCUSS LATEST DAIRY MARKET CONCERNS

U

K Union farming leaders met in Edinburgh late last year to discuss the latest issues affecting the industry, including the substantial downturn in farm gate milk prices and cash flow difficulties. Ulster Farmers’ Union Deputy President Ivor Ferguson, Dairy Policy Committee Chairman Jonathan Moore, Vice Chairman William Irvine and Senior Policy Officer Chris Osborne met with their counterparts from NFU Scotland, NFU Cymru and NFU. “It was agreed that downward price pressure continues to be driven by commodity prices volatility and milk production exceeding demand but there are actions that could be taken to ease the situation at EU, national, and regional level including the need for a collaborative and co-ordinated approach from the UK farming unions,” said Moore.

“Going forward, the UK unions agreed that we would be pushing for UK Union Office Holders to meet senior UK government ministers to discuss concerns and this will be accompanied by a call for a UK-wide Dairy Summit to ensure a sustainable future for our sector.”

Meanwhile, Ulster Farmers’ Union President Ian Marshall and CEO Clarke Black also travelled to Brussels last month to meet with recently appointed EU Commissioner for Agriculture Phil Hogan to discuss a range of important issues, including CAP implementation, currently facing farmers.

“Mr Hogan took up the role of EU Agriculture Commissioner in October this year and we wanted to ensure we met him early on in his tenure in order raise a number of key issues facing Northern Ireland’s farmers,” said Marshall. “It was a very constructive meeting.”

Pictured are, from left, Simon Caughey, marketing manager, Devenish; Harry McGaffin, secretary of the European Angus Cattle Society; Gary Scott, competition chef and chef at Sally McNally’s; and David Doyle, ruminant researcher, Devenish.

about locally-produced beef produce and gives recognition to everyone involved in those processes.”

Blind tastings will be held in February at CAFRE Loughry Campus, followed by a Gala Awards evening in March. Further information on the event can be obtained by contacting European Angus Cattle Society Secretary, Harry McGaffin on 07715 584887.

UFU to take action on pig market difficulties A

fter a difficult latter half of 2014 for pig farmers in Northern Ireland with continued price slippage from external market forces, the Ulster Farmers’ Union has said it will take action.

“We fully understand the external factors affecting Northern Ireland farmers and processors and the need to compete with cheaper imports, but the price differential between NI and the rest of the UK has been steadily increasing over the past number of weeks to unacceptable levels,” said Jonathan Cuddy, chairman of the UFU Pork and Bacon Committee.

“This difference needs to be rectified as soon as possible, otherwise farmers may consider reducing their numbers or indeed leaving the industry.”

The UFU is encouraged that the EU’s Agriculture Commissioner Phil Hogan has recently agreed to explore the option of private storage aid for pigmeat in early 2015 in an attempt to alleviate the situation caused by the Russian market collapse.

On the back of the Russian ban, a strong Sterling-Euro exchange rate also continues to put downward pressure on the UK market, making cheaper EU imports increasingly attractive.

In an attempt to promote the use of more NI pigmeat in the local marketplace, the Ulster Farmers’ Union in conjunction with Pig Regen and the Ulster Pork and Bacon Forum have committed to a programme of DNA testing of pork and pigmeat products, building up a databank of all boars that contribute to Northern Irish Pig meat production.

Based on this scientific evidence, the UFU will then identify companies who are using imported pig meat which may not meet the animal health and welfare standards of Northern Ireland.

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email: email. markbeckett@greerpublications.com lauragirvan@greerpublications.com

SHELFLIFE

shelf life

www.ulstergrocer.com www.ulstergrocer.com

To see your product featured in Shelf-life, contact Mark at markbeckett@greerpublications.com or Tel: 028 9078 3235

Robert Roberts Coffee Capsules offers choice to consumers O

ver the last few years, more and more coffee-loving homes in Northern Ireland have moved towards capsule machines and now, customer demand for easily accessible, affordable and great tasting coffee pods has been met.

Robert Roberts – one of Ireland’s oldest coffee and tea companies – is the first Irish company to launch its very own roast-ground coffee capsules: great news for coffee enthusiasts who will be able to purchase the 10-capsule boxes in Tesco Northern Ireland.

Compatible with all Nespresso home machines, Robert Roberts’ coffee capsules are available in three different intensities – 7, 9 and 10.

Intensity 7 coffee capsules make the perfect morning coffee. 100% Arabica, the coffee is smooth, sweet and soft with a well-balanced acidity.

Intensity 9 capsules deliver a medium bodied coffee with a smooth profile and finish. This nutty coffee with unsweetened chocolate notes is a great choice for an afternoon boost.

Intensity 10 capsules intense dark roasted in the southern Italian style, it makes a great espresso and also works well with milk; it is perfect for lovers of strong coffee.

Robert Roberts has worked hard to ensure quality and consistency in each and every coffee pod. Importantly, the range of capsules will offer choice to customers with compatible machines and they’re available across Northern Ireland, making ‘at home’ quality, fresh coffee drinking so much more accessible.

Hallo Foods announce multi-million investment in Honey Monster H alo Foods has announced a multimillion pound investment to boost its share in the cereal category, starting with the return of the much-loved Honey Monster character after several years away from the nation’s TV sets. Halo is launching a reformulated, re-branded version of its iconic cereal, which will see the introduction of a new name, Honey Monster Puffs. The new product features a revised recipe with less sugar and more honey, as well as a reinvigorated packaging design with traffic light nutritionals on front of pack – making it one of the first branded cereals in the UK to proactively display this information to consumers.“The Honey Monster was a staple of family breakfasts for decades,” said Andy Valentine, marketing director at Halo Foods. “Our research has shown us that consumers still have a strong feeling of nostalgia, trust and loyalty towards him, so it’s fantastic that we’re able to bring him back.”

66 00

Cat Club re-launch for Mackle Petfoods M

ackle Petfoods is delighted to announce the re-launch of its cat food brand Cat Club.

Cat Club is locally manufactured in Northern Ireland using only top quality locally sourced ingredients. Made with Irish meat, Cat Club is fully traceable from farm to can.

As part of this re-launch, Cat Club has added a New Poultry Selection Variety Chunks in Gravy 6 Pack to its range, to complement the current Cat Club Variety Chunks in Jelly 6 Pack. Cat Club’s carefully prepared natural meaty chunks in appetising Jelly and Gravy have all the nourishment and essential vitamins and minerals to ensure all-round good health and lively energy for your cat, so you know you’re feeding them a tasty, nutritious meal they’ll love.

Cat Club has a proven sales record so the introduction of their new Gravy 6 Pack will guarantee increased sales. Cat Club is available to order now. “Cats love their Cat Club!”

APPOINTMENTS

People on the move...

in association with

NFU Mutual announces board appointment N

FU Mutual, the leading farm insurance company in the UK, has recently announced the appointment of Dr Christine Kennedy OBE as a main Board Director for the Stratford on Avon-based insurer. Christine has previously served on several agricultural sector boards and has a long association with the Ulster Farmers’ Union. Along with her husband James, she runs the family farm at Donaghadee, Co Down.

“NFU Mutual as a business is an integral part of the support regime for NI’s farmers and the presence and staff, which we as a Union share with the NFU Mutual, ensures that together we provide an unrivalled network of front line support for our members and the wider agricultural industry,” said Ian Marshall, president of the Ulster Farmers’ Union.

“We are very pleased with Christine’s appointment to the NFU Mutual Board and we know that she will contribute strongly to shaping the organisational and strategic direction of the business as well as a bringing a particular empathy for the needs of the NFU Mutual’s customers in Northern Ireland.”

Dr Kennedy said: “For me, as someone who holds the future of the agricultural industry in general and the NI agricultural industry in particular very close to my heart, it is a great honour to be appointed to the Board of such an important, long established and influential agricultural business. The NFU Mutual recently celebrated its 100th birthday and I am looking forward to being part of the Board as it embarks on its second century of serving the farming and rural community.”

UFU President Ian Marshall (left) and NFU Mutual Regional Manager for Northern Ireland and Scotland Martin Malone congratulate Dr Christine Kennedy on her appointment to the NFU Mutual board.

Wesley Aston appointed as Ulster Independent board member Farmers’ Union CEO delegate appointed to DETI U T

lster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has announced the appointment of Wesley Aston as the chief executive designate of the organisation.

“The UFU undertook a very thorough recruitment process over the past few months and were encouraged with the response received,” said Ian Marshall, president of UFU. “The outcome of this is that we are pleased to be able to announce this appointment and act quickly following Clarke Black’s decision in October to retire after 13 years of dedicated service to the UFU and we will have several months before he retires at the end of April to facilitate the hand over to Mr Aston.

“Wesley has been with the organisation for over 20 years, and brings with him a very extensive knowledge and understanding of both Northern Ireland agriculture and the UFU as an organisation. We would like to congratulate Wesley on the recent appointment and we look forward to working with him as he takes up the reigns of CEO in due course.”

Aston grew up and still lives on a small livestock farm in Markethill, Co Armagh and graduated from Edinburgh University with a Degree in Agriculture in 1989.

Wesley Aston

he Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI) has appointed Claire Hughes to join David Beck as a second independent member to the DETI Departmental Board.

The primary role of an Independent Board Member is to contribute to the good governance of the organisation. Independent Board Members offer constructive challenge across the organisation’s business with a view to ensuring that all aspects of strategy and delivery of policy are scrutinised for effectiveness and efficiency.

Claire Hughes’ appointment is for a period of three years from January 1. Hughes has been a self-employed business mentor, trainer and financial consultant since January 2013 and worked in banking for 35 years.

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Trade Directory

2015

agent & company index | 70-84

retailers guide | 85-88 brand index | 89-97

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

AGENT & COMPANY INDEX

Allegro Distribution

ALLIED BAKERIES

ANNAGHMORE MUSHROOMS

Unit 3 Balmoral Business Park Boucher Crescent Belfast BT12 6HU T: 028 9068 3040 F: 028 9068 2644 W: www.allegro.ie

2-12 Orby Link Belfast BT5 5HW W: www.alliedbakeries.co.uk

46 Boconnell Lane Lurgan Co. Armagh BT66 6NE T: 028 3832 5555 F: 028 3832 8480 E: info@annaghmoremushrooms.co.uk sales@annaghmoremushrooms.co.uk W: www.annaghmoremushrooms.co.uk www.littleallotment.co.uk

PERSONNEL: General Sales Manager: Chris McGrath T: 028 9068 8788 TYPE OF BUSINESS: Sales, Marketing and Distribution Main brands: Superglo Firelighters Firelog Firepak Eco logs 4head Astral Blistex Dentyl Bazuka Treatment Gel Dentinox Ibuleve Speed Relief Otex Express Fenjal Del Monte Just Juice Kiwi Glade Mr Muscle Oust Pledge Toilet Duck Brillo Goddards Shout Autan Raid Spontex Nivea Nivea for Men Elastoplast Atrixo Valley Gold Diabetic jams

8 • •Ulster 3670 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

PERSONNEL: General Manager: Peter Henry General Sales Manager: Colin Stevenson Operations Manager: Alan Browne Logistics Manager: Clive Kerrigan Senior Brand Manager: Elva O’Connor TYPE OF BUSINESS: Bakery Goods Production, Sales & Distribution Main brands: Allinson Burgen Kingsmill Sunblest

PERSONNEL: Directors: Jelena Milos Eamon Murray TYPE OF BUSINESS: Growing and marketing of mushrooms.

We provide a full range of white and brown mushrooms which can be bought in loose or pre-packed forms, whole, sliced and washed in various weights and labelled to customer requirements. Every single one of our delicious mushrooms is fully traceable and grown under the most stringent quality assurance practices therby ensuring they are 100% compliant with food safety standards.

DISTRIBUTION: Retail, Food Service, Hospitality MAIN BRANDS: Annaghmore Mushrooms More Goodness, Little Allotment ACCREDITATIONS/MEMBERSHIPS:

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

AGENT & COMPANY INDEX

ARYZTA Food Solutions

Bacardi Brown-Forman

BALLYRASHANE

Grange Castle Business Park Clondalkin Dublin 22 E: info@aryztafoodsolutions.ie W: www.aryztafoodsolutions.ie Telesales ROI: 1850 777 000

N. Ireland Contacts: Customer Development Manager: Richard McCluskey T: 07971 508682

Blaris Industrial Estate Unit 2 5 Altona Road Lisburn BT27 5QB Co. Antrim T: 0800 973 282 E: info@aryztafoodsolutions.ie W: www.aryztafoodsolutions.ie

Customer Development Executive: Aaron Skinner T: 07971 508732

18 Creamery Road Cloyfin Coleraine Co. Londonderry BT52 2NE T: 028 7034 3265 F: 028 7035 1653 W: www.ballyrashanecreamery.com

PERSONNEL: Managing Director: Peter Jackson Commercial Director - Retail: Nigel Scully TYPE OF BUSINESS: ARYZTA Food Solutions (formerly Cuisine de France) provides a quality bakery, foodto-go and beverage offering to the retail market.

Bringing you the very best in retail solutions from our well-known and loved brands: Cuisine de France Pierre’s Seattle’s Best Coffee Otis Spunkmeyer Tim Hortons

Customer Development Executive: Ryan Brown T: 07971 508739

T: 01962 762100 W: www.bacardi-martini.co.uk www.bacardi.com MAIN BRANDS: Rum: BACARDI Superior Rum BACARDI Gold Rum - BACARDI 8 Year Old Rum - BACARDI Oakheart Bacardi Razz Vodka: Grey Goose Original - Grey Goose La Poire - Grey Goose L’Orange Grey Goose Le Citron - Finlandia Classic Vodka Finlandia Cranberry - Finlandia Grapefruit - Eristoff Vodka - Eristoff Black Gin: Bombay Sapphire - Oxley Tequila: Patron Silver - Patron Anejo Patron Reposado - Patron XO Café Tennessee Whiskey: Jack Daniel’s Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel - Gentleman Jack Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey

PERSONNEL: Chief Executive: Nigel Kemps Operations Manager: Ian Campbell Financial Controller: David Faulkner Sales Manager: Victoria McCook HR Manager: Emma Birrell Technical Manager: Ruth Coils Type of Business: Procuring, processing and marketing of milk products and main brands.

Main Brands: Ballyrashane

Bourbon: Woodford Reserve Vermouth: Martini Extra Dry - Martini Rosso - Martini Bianco - Martini Rosato Noilly Prat Dry Sparkling: Martini Asti - Martini Prosecco Martini Rose Speciality: Southern Comfort Southern Comfort Cherry - Chambord St Germain - Tuaca Rtd: Breezer: Orange, Watermelon Breezer Spritzer: Mixed Berry Bacardi Mojito Bacardi & Cola Premix cans Jack Daniel’s Premix cans Southern Comfort Premix cans

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

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TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

AGENT & COMPANY INDEX

BOYNE VALLEY GROUP

Dale Farm Ltd

Genesis Crafty

Drogheda Co. Louth Ireland T: +353 41 9870300 F: +353 41 9870339 W: www.boynevalley.com

15 Dargan Road Belfast BT3 9LS T: 028 9037 2200 F: 028 9037 2211 E: info@dalefarm.co.uk W: www.dalefarm.co.uk

31 Aughrim Road Magherafelt Northern Ireland BT45 6BB T: 028 7963 2465 F: 028 7963 4207 E: hello@genesiscrafty.com W: www.genesiscrafty.com

Personnel: Group Commercial Director: Stephen Cameron

PERSONNEL: Managing Director: Brian McErlain

Commercial Director - Branded Products: Jason Hempton

Operations & Technical Director: Damian McErlain

Group Managing Director: John Harkin

Commercial Director Convenience and Foodservice: Nigel Cairns

Product Development Director: John McErlain

Commercial Director: Paul Kinch

Type of Business: Dairy manufacturer

Head of Brands: John Tolan

Main brands: Dale Farm Dromona Spelga Loseley Rowan Glen Fivemiletown Mullins Ice Cream

Personnel: Business Manager NI: Claire Meehan M: 07825 141881 Sales Representative: Linda Marks M: 07825 141882

Type of Business: Manufacturer and distributor of food and non-food products.

Main brands: Boyne Valley Honey McDonnells Chivers Jelly and Jams Erin Homecook Panda Spreads Don Carlos Giovanni Di Firenze Bonne Maman Koka Lakeshore Harvest Fare Lifeforce Yazoo Irish Breeze Killeen

Commercial Manager: JP Lyttle Sales & Marketing Executive: Oonagh Lagan Financial: Lynn Caulfield Business Development: Paul McErlain Business Development: Bernard Monaghan Account Manager: Kieran Belton Type of Business: Genesis Crafty produce and distribute hand crafted morning goods, bread and cake throughout Northern Ireland, UK and ROI via both retail and foodservices.

WHY GENESIS CRAFTY: We are six brothers who are also six bakers.

We take pride in baking everything the truly artisanal way, creating the best taste and texture for you!

CORE PRODUCTS: Genesis Crafty Butter Sultana, Cherry, Wheaten and Plain Scones Genesis Crafty Original, Blueberry and Chocolate Chip Pancakes Genesis Crafty Sliced Oven, Toaster, Honey & Yogurt and Fruited Wheaten Genesis Crafty Original, Round and Wee Sodas Genesis Crafty Raspberry Jam Bakes and Iced Topped Madeira Sponge

8 • •Ulster 3672 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

AGENT & COMPANY INDEX

GM Marketing Ireland Ltd

Henderson Group

HIGGINS REFRIGERATION

5th Floor Lesley House 25 Wellington Place Belfast BT1 6GD T: 028 9026 7080 F: 028 9043 4466 E: info@gmmarketing.co.uk W: www.gmmarketing.co.uk

Hightown Avenue Mallusk Newtownabbey Co. Antrim BT36 4RT T: 028 9034 2733 F: 028 9034 2484 E: info@henderson-group.com W: www.henderson-group.com

Drumbarnet Ballinode Co. Monaghan T: 084 5602 6820 (NI) 00 353 047 79333 (ROI) E: oliver@higginsrefrigeration.com W: www.higginsrefrigeration.com

Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/gmmarketing PERSONNEL: Managing Director: Gerard McAdorey T: 028 9026 7080 Commercial Director: Malcolm Newbigging T: 028 9026 7080 National Account Controller: Gary Martin T: 028 9026 7080 Buying Controller: Martin McCauley T: 028 9026 7080 Sales & Marketing Co-ordinator: Steve McDonagh T: 028 9026 7080 Financial Controller: Mark Fitzsimmons T: 028 9026 7080 Type of Business: Sales & Distribution Company Why GM? We are a unique Sales and Distribution Company who are the chosen route to market for a number of leading FMCG brands within grocery, pharmacy and foodservice. We are an innovative company with unrivalled industry experience and we are always taking products places.

Personnel: Chairman, Henderson Group: John Agnew Joint Managing Director: Martin Agnew Joint Managing Director: Geoffrey Agnew Group Finance Director: Ron Whitten Information Systems Director: Andrew Logan Group Operations Director: Patrick McGarry Trading Director: Alan Fitzsimmins Fresh Foods Director: Neal Kelly Group Property Director: Mark Adrain Human Resources Director: Sam Davidson Sales & Marketing Director: Paddy Doody Head of Corporate Marketing: Bronagh Luke Head of Brand Marketing: Brenda Mulligan PR & Communications Officer: Emma Armer Channel Sales Managers: Stephen Gibson, Sarah Halliday Regional Sales Manager (Supermarkets): Paul Deans Regional Sales Managers: David Bennett, Jonathan Finlay, Donal Bryce, Caroline Rowan, William Bill Trading Controller: Glen Howe Trading Managers: Edward Burns, Brendan Dumigan, Eugene McCabe, Michelle Dineen, David Quigg Category Space Planner: Mark Wilson Fresh Foods Trading Controller: Nigel Dugan Fresh Foods Manager (HRL): David Hamilton Fresh Foods Development Manager (HRL): Healey Martin Fresh Food Trading Managers: Steven Kennedy, Iain Dickson, Alistair Kelly, Noel McGregor New Product Project Manager: Jane Pyper Fresh Food Buying Manager: Eddie Blair Henderson Print Manager: Alan Ritchie

Personnel: Director: Gerry Higgins Sales: Oliver McAtasney Type of Business: Refrigeration DISTRIBUTOR/AGENT: Criocabin Carrier Oscartielle & ISA

Type of Business: Symbol Group Wholesaler for SPAR, EUROSPAR, ViVO, ViVOXtra and ViVO Essentials in NI. Number of Stores: Henderson Wholesale Ltd service over 400 stores across the five brands.

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

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TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

AGENT & COMPANY INDEX

H.J. Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Stradbrook House Stradbrook Road Blackrock Co. Dublin T: 00 353 1 2805757 F: 00 353 1 2801957 W: www.heinz.co.uk Personnel: Country Manager: Alan Rochford Marketing Manager - Ireland: Emily O’Kane Type of Business: Marketing, sales and distribution of HJ Heinz brand and product portfolio.

Main Brands: Heinz: Baby - Cereals Baby - Drinks Baby - Fruity Custard Pots Baby - Snacks and Rusks Baby - Mum’s Own Recipe Beanz Barbecue Sauce Mayonnaise Salad Cream Soup Tinned Pasta Tomato Ketchup Weight Watchers from Heinz: Frozen Ready Meals Baked Beans Soup Tinned Pasta HP: Brown Sauce Fruity Sauce BBQ Sauce Lea & Perrins: Worcestershire Sauce Amoy: Straight to Wok Stir Fry Sauces Soy Sauce Straight to Wok Noodles Coconut Milk

8 • •Ulster 3674 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

HOVIS BAKERIES IRELAND

HEALTH & SAFETY WORKS NI

Apollo Road Belfast BT12 6LP T: 087 0728 8888 F: 028 9038 8558 W: www.Hovisbakery.co.uk W: www.Ormobakery.co.uk

Longbridge House 16-24 Waring Street Belfast BT1 2DX

Personnel: General Manager: Mark Higgins Business Unit Director: Trevor McCrum Business Unit Controller: Ben Daggett Business Unit Manager: Billy Thompson Business Unit Manager: Liesa Johnston Ireland Brand Manager: Jackie Kirk Category Insights Manager: Barry Spence Type of Business: Based at Apollo Rd, Belfast, Hovis Bakeries Ireland bakes and distributes quality bakery brands such as Hovis Bread, Ormo Bread and Morning Goods, Nimble Bread and Mothers Pride Morning Goods.

The company also bakes retailer branded and foodservice breads and morning goods for customers in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Main Brands: Hovis Ormo Mothers Pride Nimble

T: 0300 020 0030 F: 028 9034 7490 E: hswni@detini.gov.uk W: www.healthandsafetyworksni.gov.uk Contact: Donna McCullough Type of Business: Health & Safety Works NI is the small business advisory service of the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland. It was set up to provide free and confidential advice, support and mentoring to all small businesses and the social economy within Northern Ireland. A free one-to-one visit is available for businesses that employ less than 50 people. It consists of a team of qualified and experienced advisers that can tailor the health and safety advice specifically to the needs of your business.

We also run seminars on various aspects of health and safety and can provide simple and easily understood guidance in the form of leaflets and templates; details are available from our website.

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

AGENT & COMPANY INDEX

Interactive (Irl) Ltd

Irwin’s Bakery

Johnson Brothers (Belfast) Limited

6/7 Grange Park Trench Road Mallusk Newtownabbey Co. Antrim BT36 4LA T: 028 9083 1730 F: 028 9083 1731 E: mark.stuart@inter-active.org

5 Diviny Drive The Food Park Carne Industrial Estate Portadown BT63 5WE T: 028 3833 2421 F: 028 3833 3918 E: info@irwinsbakery.com W: www.irwinsbakery.com

incorporating Johnson Brothers (Distributing) Limited

Personnel: General Manager: John Flanagan M: 07919 122947 Commercial Manager: Mark Stuart M: 07919 122946 Sales Manager: Ian Cochrane M: 07867 306343 Business Development Executive: Enda McDaid M: 07920 148780 Business Development Executive: Harry Dunlop M: 07920 148680 Business Development Executive: Paul Ritchie M: 07920 148580

PERSONNEL: Chairman: Brian Irwin

Distributor/Agent: Procter & Gamble Authorised N.I. Distributor Type of Business: Sales, Marketing and Distribution to the N.I. Grocery Trade Main brands: Personal Care & Beauty: Always; Aussie; Braun; Gillette; Head & Shoulders; Herbal Essence; Lasting Colour; Loving Care; Max Factor; Nice n` Easy; Nice n` Easy Root touch up; Olay; Old Spice; Pantene; Perfect 10; Shockwaves; Silvikrin; Wash & Go; Wella; Tampax Health & Wellbeing: Crest; Clear Blue; Fixodent; Oral-b; Pepto-Bismol; Vicks House & Home: Ace; Ambi Pur; Ariel; Bold; Daz; Dreft; Duracell; Fairy; Febreze; Flash; Lenor Baby & Family: Pampers; Pampers Kandoo; Infacare Snacks: Pringles Electrical Personal Appliances: Breville; Dreamland; George Foreman; Remington; Russell Hobbs; Sanyo

137 Hillsborough Old Road Lisburn BT27 5QR T: 028 9267 9121 F: 028 9266 8800 Personnel and Positions: Chairman: Michael Y Johnson

Technical Director: Niall Irwin

Joint Managing Directors: Dermot W.M. Johnson M Andrew Johnson

Chief Executive: Michael Murphy

Financial Director: Richard J Johnson

Sales & Business Development Director: John Hopkins

Group Sales Director: Philip Mills

Type of business: Irwin’s is Northern Ireland’s largest indigenous wholesale bakery and the company behind iconic local brands such as Nutty Krust, Howell House ‘Jammy Joeys’, Irwin’s Softee and the Rankin Selection traditional Irish bread range. Irwin’s products are based on traditional Irish recipes and baking methods, including original fermentation and slow-baking processes.

Irwin’s Nutty Krust was launched in 1963 and is a firm Northern Ireland favourite.

Since then, Nutty Krust has been loved by generations of families to the present day.

Irwin’s is a family-owned and managed company which supplies major supermarkets, convenience and trade sectors across Northern Ireland, Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland. Currently employing over 450 staff, Irwin’s Bakery have been baking bread in Northern Ireland for over 100 years.

Johnson Brothers (Belfast) Limited: Sales Manager: Neil Patton Johnson Brothers (Distributing) Limited: General Manager: Ivan Thompson Sales Manager: David Lewis Type of Business: Selling & Distributing Agents Pure Coffee Manufacturer Distributor/Agent: Selling & Distributing Agents

Main Brands: Irwin’s Rankin Selection Howell’s Handmade

MISSION STATEMENT: Our mission is to fulfil customer satisfaction within our distribution channels and to represent our principals according to their world leading standards of innovation, service and quality.

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

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TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

AGENT & COMPANY INDEX

KARRO Food Group

KP Snacks Ltd

Lindt & Sprungli Ltd

c/o Northern Snack Foods 70 Molesworth Road Cookstown Co. Tyrone BT80 8PJ T: 028 8676 3321 F: 028 8676 8524 E: colin.glennon@karro.co.uk W: www.karro.co.uk W: www.cookstownbrand.com Personnel: Sales: Trevor Mounstephen Marketing: Colin Glennon Type of Business: Manufacturer of branded, own label, foodservice and commodity products for multiple proteins.

Distributor/Agent: O’Kane Foodservice Main brands: Cookstown McGee’s Butcher

8 • •Ulster 3676 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

Lissue Industrial Estate East Lissue Road Lisburn Co. Antrim BT28 2RB E: wattsr@kpsnacks.com W: www.kpsnacks.com Personnel: Northern Ireland Business Account Manager: Ricky Watts Type of Business: Manufacturer and Distributor of Savoury Snacks & Nuts Distributor/Agent: KP Snacks Ltd Main brands: McCoys Hula Hoops Hula Hoop Puft KP Nuts Space Raiders Skips Discos Frisps Brannigans Roysters Mini Chips Choc Dips Phileas Fogg

Unit 310 Q House Furze Road Sandyford Dublin 18 Ireland T: +353 12936909/ 07967590040 F: +353 12936913 E: lbrick@lindt.com NI Sales Manager: Gordon Knox E: gknox@lindt.com Type of Business: Confectionery Main brands: Lindt Lindor Lindt Excellence Lindt Gold Bunny Lindt Bear Lindt Swiss Luxury Selection

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

AGENT & COMPANY INDEX

Mackle Petfoods

Maxol Oil Limited

40 Corrigan Hill Road Moy Dungannon Co.Tyrone BT71 6SL T: 028 8778 4641 F: 028 8778 4955 E: sales@macklepetfoods.com W: www.macklepetfoods.com brandydogfood catclubcatfood

48 Trench Road Mallusk Newtownabbey Co. Antrim BT36 4TY T: 028 9050 6000 F: 028 9050 6025 E: post@maxol.ie W: www.maxol.com

Personnel: Managing Director: John A. Mackle Sales and Marketing Manager: Gwendoline Rafferty Type of Business: Pet food manufacturer Main brands: Brandy Brandy Complete Cat Club Jessie Champion Professional Naturo

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

Type of Business: Forecourt & Convenience Retailer Main brands: Maxol Maxol Auto 24 Maxol Lubricants Maxwash Moreish

McColgan’s QUALITY FOODS LTD Dublin Road Industrial Estate Strabane BT82 9EA T: 028 7138 2797 E: sales@mccolgans.ie W: www.mccolgans.ie PERSONNEL: Managing Director: Brian McColgan General Manager: Grainne Hampton Commercial Director: Roy Wilkinson TYPE OF BUSINESS: Manufacturer of convenience food including pies, slices, pasties, sausage rolls, jambons, quiche. Foodservice and retail, chilled and frozen. Own label specialists.

Brands include McColgans, Bakers Best, Strathmourne Foods, McColgans Choice Cuisine.

DISTRIBUTION: Multi temperature deliveries across NI, ROI and GB daily.

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TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

AGENT & COMPANY INDEX

Mcgowans print

Moy Park Ltd

MULLINS ICE CREAM

Unit A1 17 Heron Road Belfast BT3 9LE T: 028 9073 0960

The Food Park 39 Seagoe Ind. Estate Portadown Craigavon Co. Armagh BT63 5QE T: 028 3835 2233 F: 028 3836 8011 W: www.moypark.com

Craiglea Gardens Kilrea BT51 5QZ T: 028 2954 0003 E: info@mullins-icecream.com W: www.mullins-icecream.com

3 IDA Industrial Estate Poppintree Dublin 11 Ireland T: 01 410 6700 W: www.mcgowansprint.com E: hello@mcgowansprint.com PERSONNEL: Managing Director NI: Brian Crawford T: 028 9073 0960 Sales Director ROI: Conor McDonald T: 01 410 6700 TYPE OF BUSINESS: McGowans Print operates over twenty digital printing presses working over a vast number of substrates in large and small format, with production runs from one to many thousand. Design, business print services, retail POS, outdoor media, printeriors, event signage, direct mail, signage installation, planning and print execution - McGowans also specialise in cardboard engineering, creating FSDU’s and innovative in-store theatre such as aisle arches, fridge and freezer display units.

Personnel: Commercial Manager Ireland: Michael Stewart Brand Marketing Manager: Briege Finnegan Type of Business: Moy Park is a leading provider of fresh, locally farmed poultry in the UK and Ireland and is recognised as one of the largest producers of organic, free range and corn fed poultry in Europe. Moy Park supplies retailers and foodservice providers throughout the UK, Ireland and Europe with a range of highquality, fresh, coated and added value retailer own brand and Moy Park branded poultry products. The Moy Park brand includes fresh, breaded and ready to cook products. Moy Park employs over 12,000 people across 14 sites in Northern Ireland, England and Europe.

Distributor/Agent: Neil McMullan Ltd 28 HalfPenny Gate Road Moira Craigavon Co.Armagh Northern Ireland BT67 OHW T: 07831 566827 Main brands: Moy Park O’Kane Castle Lea Jamie Oliver

8 • •Ulster 3678 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

CONTACT: Peter Lynn T: 028 2954 0003 E: p.lynn@mullins-icecream.com Type of Business: Manufacturer of Ice Cream and Sorbet for Retail and Foodservice.

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

AGENT & COMPANY INDEX

MULRINES

Musgrave MarketPlace

Donegal Road Ballybofey Co. Donegal T: 00353 7491 31009 F: 00353 7491 31892 E: www.mulrines.ie

NI Head Office: 1-15 Dargan Crescent Duncrue Road Belfast BT3 9HJ T: 028 9078 4800 W: www.musgravemarketplace.co.uk E: marketplace@musgrave.co.uk

Personnel: Managing Director: Peter Mulrine Sales Director: John Bonner Operations Director: Drew Chambers Financial Director: Malachy Magee UK Sales Manager: Dessy Moen Type of Business: Manufacturer of finest quality juices, smoothies and sauces.

Mulrines are one of the largest producers in both the UK and Ireland.

Manufacturer of factory brands, own label multiple brands and Mulrine own brand products.

Main brands: Juice Press Range of Premium Juices and Smoothies Kulana Pure Fruit Juices Bramble Hill Fruit Juices Jaffa Gold Juice Drinks Juice Press Smoothies Kandee Sauce Products Sunstream Splash Pouch Drinks

BELFAST: 1-15 Dargan Crescent Duncrue Road Belfast BT3 9HJ T: 028 9078 4800 Manager: Clarke Hill DERRY: Pennyburn Industrial Estate Buncrana Road Derry BT48 0LU T: 028 7130 5700 Manager: Justin Williamson LURGAN: William Street Lurgan BT66 6JD T: 028 3832 2771 Manager: Garry Williams PERSONNEL: NI Director : Michael McCormack Retail Sales Manager NI: Andrea Keers Marketing Manager: Paula Mahoney Commercial Manager: Neil Donnelly Type of Business: Musgrave Wholesale Partners is Northern Ireland’s largest wholesaler, providing both collect & delivered wholesale solutions for independent retailers and foodservice professionals.

Main Brands: Musgrave MarketPlace, and DayToday Product Ranges: Musgrave Excellence Musgrave Professional Smart Buy Butchers Select Simply Meat Today’s

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

Musgrave Retail Partners NI 1 – 19 Dargan Drive Belfast BT3 9JG T: 028 9078 7100 F: 028 9078 7101 E: succeed@musgrave.ie W: www.musgravegroup.com Personnel: Acting Managing Director: Damian McCarney Interim Commercial Director: Nigel Briggs Finance Director: Matt Myers SuperValu Centra Sales Director: Nigel Maxwell Mace Sales Director: Trevor Magill HR Director: Sandra Mahood Centra Customer Manager: Norman Bennett SuperValu Customer Manager: Connor McCann Communications Manager: Kate Ferguson Type of Business: Musgrave Retail Partners NI (MRPNI) is the wholesale partner and distributor to over 250 independent SuperValu, Centra and Mace stores in Northern Ireland, with a combined turnover in excess of £600 million. MRPNI is part of the Musgrave Group, the leading partner to entrepreneurial retailers and food service professionals in the UK, Ireland and Spain.

Main brands: SuperValu Centra Mace

79

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

AGENT & COMPANY INDEX

NISA RETAIL LIMITED

Northern Snack Foods Ltd

ROBERT ROBERTS (NI) LTD

Waldo Way Normanby Enterprise Park Scunthorpe North Lincolnshire DN15 9GE Main Office: 01724 282028 E: helpdesk@nisaretail.com W: www.nisaretail.com

Lissue Industrial Estate East Lisburn BT 28 2RB T: 028 9262 2820 W: www.northernsnackfoods.com

10 Flush Park Lisburn Co Antrim BT28 2DX T: 028 9267 3316 F: 028 9266 1131 W: www.robert-roberts.co.uk

PERSONNEL: Managing Director: Gareth Bradley

Personnel: CEO: Neil Turton Marketing Director: Ian Bishop Retail Development Manager: Noel Hadden Sales Manager: Pat Leneghan

Personnel: Martin McClinton M: 07850 410917 Contact North West: Nigel Morton M: 07720 967492 Contact Belfast/Greater Belfast: Jonathan Lamont M: 07545 927064 Type of Business: Distributor of Snack foods Main Brands: Hunky Dorys Crisps O’Donnells Velvet Crunch King KP Meanies Rancheros

8 • •Ulster 3680 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

Marketing Manager: Sinead Adair TYPE OF BUSINESS: Robert Roberts NI Ltd offers a full service of sales, distribution, merchandising, promotional and marketing. We distribute a combination of our own brands and those of our blue chip principals to all grocery trade sectors, multiples, symbols, cash & carry, independent wholesale, garage forecourts and independents.

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

AGENT & COMPANY INDEX

Sales Placement

SHS Sales & Marketing

Strathroy Dairy Ltd

Unit 2 1 Edgewater Road Belfast Harbour Belfast BT3 9JQ T: 028 9077 0999 W: www.salesplacement.com

199 Airport Road West Belfast, BT3 9ED T: 028 9045 4647 E: Info@shs-sales.ie W: www.shs-sales.ie

Shergrim Omagh Co.Tyrone BT79 7JD T: 028 8224 0948 F: 028 8224 6280 E: info@strathroydairy.com W: www.strathroy.co.uk

PERSONNEL: Managing Director: Seamus Farrelly Recruitment Director: June Wilson TYPE OF BUSINESS: FMCG, Licensed Trade, Food Service, Retail Marketing, Tech Sales, Digital, Advertsing/Media, Pharma, IT, Telecoms.

CONTRACT PEOPLE Unit 2 1 Edgewater Road Belfast Harbour Belfast BT3 9JQ T: 028 9077 0999 W: www.contractpeople.com PERSONNEL: Director: Allan Rutherford Client Service Director: Russell Johnston TYPE OF BUSINESS: We are one of Ireland’s leading Specialist Field Marketing agencies providing a face and voice for our clients brands at the point of purchase. Sales Outsourcing, Merchandising, Auditing, Technical Services.

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

Personnel: Managing Director: David O’Neill Sales Director: Des McCullough General Sales Manager for Northern Ireland: Michael Whitely Type of Business: FMCG Distributor Main brands: Airwick Askeys Batchelors Condensed Canned Soups Batchelors Canned Vegetables Bloo Bonjela Bottlegreen Brasso Chewits Cillit Bang Colgate Cookeen Crisp & Dry oils Crosse & Blackwell Canned Soups Crosse & Blackwell Canned Vegetables Dettol Disprin Douwe Egberts Coffee Durex E45 Farmlea Finish Flora Oils Gaviscon Harpic Jeyes Jordans Jucee Kleenoff Lemsip Lypsyl Maguire & Paterson Matches & Firelighters Marigold Mars Milk Drinks Mr Sheen Napolina Nurofen Organix Baby Food Palmolive Parozone Parsons Primula Princes Food & Drink Ryvita Sanex Savlon Shloer Senekot Silvo Soft & Gentle Steradent Strepsils Tunnocks Vanish Vileda Windolene Woodwards Gripe Water

Personnel: Managing Director: Patrick Cunningham Operations Director: Aidan McCarron Director ROI: Ruairi Cunningham Commercial Director NI: Eamon Lynch E: eamon@strathroydairy.com Commercial Director ROI: Phelim McCarron E: phelim@strathroydairy.ie Financial Controller: Jim McCann IT Manager: Damien Harkin Quality Control Manager: Tracy Doyle Type of Business: Dairy Processing: Milk & Cream Main brands: Strathroy Bainne Ur Erganagh Various Private Label Brands

81

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

AGENT & COMPANY INDEX

TENNeNT’s ni ltd Hawthorne House Wildflower Way Belfast BT12 6TA Customer Services: 0800 66 55 22 Head Office (Switchboard): 028 9595 2100 PERSONNEL: Managing Director: Tom McCusker

TENNANT & RUTTLE DISTRIBUTION LTD Allied Industrial Estate Kylemore Road Dublin 10 T: 00353 1623 1610 F: 00353 1623 1771 E: sales@tandr.ie Personnel: Managing Director: Geoff Beggs

Off Trade Sales Director: Duncan Millar Sales & Marketing Director: Marketing Director: Brian Beattie Customer Services Manager: Gary Clarke Type of Business: Manufacturer and Distributor of Premium Beers, Ciders , Wines and Soft Drinks.

Tennent’s NI offers a global portfolio of market-leading Beer, Cider and Soft Drink brands to the Grocery Channel throughout Northern Ireland.

Off Trade Brands: Soft Drink Brands: Finches, Tipperary Natural Mineral Water, Vit Plus, Cacaolat, Country Spring Beer Brands: Tennents, Corona, Clonmel 1650, Menabrea, Budweiser, Stella Artois, Becks, Bass, Leffe, Hoegaarden, Staropramen, Spaten, Franziskaner, Brahma, Caledonia Smooth, Heverlee, Lowenbrau Cider Brands: Magners, Woodchuck, Hornsbys, Blackthorn, Olde English, Addlestones, K

8 • •Ulster 3682 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

Neil Keogh Sales Director Ireland: Kevin Keating Financial Director: Ray Woodroofe Northern Ireland Sales Manager: Roy Dempster M: 07793 406622 Type of Business: Distribution, Sales & Marketing Company Main brand names: Ferrero Kinder Tic Tac Nutella Barr Soft Drinks Irn Bru Rockstar Energy Drinks Perfetti Van Melle Mentos Fruittella Chupa Chups Storck Werther’s Original Kinnerton Character Confectionery Nature Valley Lily O’Brien’s Ragu Chicken Tonight Mugshots Aunt Bessie’s Campbell’s Soups Standard Brands, Sunny Jim Sofidel, Nicky & Regina Paper Products

Today’s Savage & Whitten Wholesale Ltd Unit 1a Carnbane Business Park Newry BT35 6QH T: 028 3026 3521 F: 028 3025 1103 E: info@sandwni.com W: www.savageandwhitten.com PERSONNEL: Today’s Team: Sales & Marketing Director: Michael Skelton Today’s Store Development: Maurice Little & Gerry Nelson Today’s Sales Manager: Chris McGaw Business Development Managers: Martin Mullin & Mark Forsythe Business Development Manager ROI: Arron Potts

S&W Team: Managing Director: Mark Windebank Operations Director: Norman Savage IT Director: Richard Whitten Sales Director: John Whitten Trading Director: Alan Dorman Finance Director: Barry Duffy Warehouse Manager: Philip Hughes Marketing Manager: Julie Burden Transport Manager: Sean McNeill IT Manager: Conor Duffy HR Manager: Jill Cowan Type of Business: Savage & Whitten are the Symbol Group Wholesaler for Today’s Extra, Today’s Local & Today’s Express.

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

AGENT & COMPANY INDEX

Ulster Exhibitions Limited 18 Maryland Industrial Estate Ballygowan Road Belfast BT23 6BL T: 028 9044 9340 W: www.u-ex.co.uk Contact: Peter Corbett E: peter@u-ex.co.uk Type of Business: Supplier of event and display services and products Main Brands: Revostage Portable Staging Mark Bric Easystands Plex Display

United Biscuits Foods Division P O Box 3 Hillsborough Co Down BT26 6JU Office: 028 9268 2644 F: 028 9268 3804 E: hutchisg@unitedbiscuits.com W: www.unitedbiscuitsfoods.com

PO Box 3 Hillsborough BT26 6JU T: 028 9268 2644 F: 028 9268 3804 W: www.unitedbiscuits.com Personnel: National Sales Manager: Dave Cutler

Personnel: General Manager: Barry Maloret

Business Account Manager: Tim McAuley

Development Manager: Gareth Hutchison

Business Development Manager: Helen Coalter

Business Account Manager: Lloyd Graham

Type of Business: United Biscuits is a leading European Biscuits, Baked Bagged Snacks and Cake Company. It manufactures and supplies popular household brand names including McVitie’s, Jacob’s, Go Ahead!, Chocolate Digestives, Digestives, Hob Nobs, Jaffa Cakes, Penguin, Club, Medley, BN, Breakfast, Jacaobs Cream Crackers, Crispbreads, Mini Cheddars & Carr’s.

Business Account Manager: Darren Shirlow Type of Business: United Biscuits Foods Division, are one of Northern Ireland’s leading Ambient Foods Distributors / Service Providers, delivering a Comprehensive Sales and Distribution Service.

Manufacturers: Annabel Karmel Barry’s Tea Bonduelle Ltd Calypso Soft Drinks Ltd E Flahavan & Sons Ltd Tangerine Confectionery Ltd Topps International Valeo Foods Ireland W & R Jacob & Co (NI) Ltd Wagg Dog Foods

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

United Biscuits UK Ltd

Biscuits Distribution Company: United Biscuits UK Ltd Aghnatrisk Road Culcavey Hillsborough Co Down Northern Ireland BT26 6JU T: 028 9268 2644 F: 028 9268 3804

83

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

AGENT & COMPANY INDEX

Grocer ULSTER

White’s Speedicook Ltd Scarva Road Tandragee Co. Armagh BT62 2BZ T: 028 3884 0592 F: 028 3884 1895 E: whites@whitesoats.com W: www.whitesoats.com PERSONNEL: General Manager: James Mathers Sales and Marketing Manager: Mark Gowdy Business Development Manager: Stuart Best

At the heart of the Northern Ireland food industry

A thank you from the team

Brand Manager: Danielle McBride Trade Marketing Executive: Esther Jackson Type of Business: Oat Manufacturer. Breakfast Cereals Main Brands: White’s

The team at Ulster Grocer would like to thank all our readers and advertisers for their kind support throughout 2014.

As the leading trade publication for the retail grocery sector - and the only magazine with a named/controlled circulation - in Northern Ireland, we offer an ideal platform to reach the Northern Ireland grocery sector.

We will continue to cover the latest news, developments and trends in the grocery sector, and look forward to working with you all in 2015.

8 • •Ulster 3684 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

CO-OPERATIVE RETAILERS THE NORTHERN IRELAND CO-OPERATIVE PART OF THE CO-OPERATIVE GROUP REGIONAL OFFICE Carrickfergus Industrial Centre 75 Belfast Road Carrickfergus BT38 8PH T: 028 9335 7500 F: 028 9335 7505 W: www.co-operative.coop Regional Manager for NI & IOM: Gary Macaulay

MULTIPLE RETAILERS ASDA NORTHERN IRELAND OFFICE Junction One Retail Park Antrim BT41 4LL T: 028 9448 5700 W: www.asda.com ASDA Regional Operations Manager NI: George Rankin ASDA Regional Trading Manager NI: Michael McCallion

DUNNES STORES HEAD OFFICE 46-50 South Great George’s Street Dublin 2 T: 00 353 1475 1111 F: 00 353 1475 4405 W: www.dunnesstores.com

ICELAND HEAD OFFICE Second Avenue Deeside Industrial Park Deeside Flintshire CH5 2NW T: 0800 328 0800 F: 012 4481 4531 W: www.iceland.co.uk

LIDL NORTHERN IRELAND OFFICE Dundrod Road Nutts Corner Crumlin Co. Antrim BT29 4SR T: 028 9082 4310 F: 028 9082 4339 W: www.lidl.co.uk

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

MARKS & SPENCER HEAD OFFICE Waterside House 35 North Wharf Road London W2 1NW T: 020 7935 4422 W: www.marksandspencer.com

TESCO NORTHERN IRELAND OFFICE Abbey Retail Park Church Road Newtownabbey BT36 7GU T: 028 9570 4627 W: www.tesco.com

Chief Executive: Marc Bolland

Store Director for NI: Brendan Guidera

Group Finance Director: Helen Weir

Commercial Manager for NI: Cliff Kells

Executive Director of Marketing: Patrick Bousquet-Chavanne

SYMBOL GROUPS

Director of Human Resources: Tanith Dodge Director of Property: Hugo Adams Director of M&S Direct: Laura Wade-Gery Director of Foods: Steve Rowe Director of Retail: Sacha Berendji Director of Communications: Dominic Fry Area Manager for Northern Ireland: Ryan Lemon

SAINSBURY’S SUPERMARKETS LTD NORTHERN IRELAND OFFICE Forestside Shopping Centre Upper Galwally Road Belfast BT8 4FX W: www.sainsburys.co.uk Regional Operations Manager: Nigel Macaulay Category Trading Manager: Andy Maclachlan T: 013 5558 1663 Regional Supply Chain Manager: Paul McAlinden T: 028 9064 7386 NI Commercial Buyer: Claire McAlinney T: 028 9064 6913

COSTCUTTER SUPERMARKETS GROUP LTD (NORTHERN IRELAND) Unit 1B McKinney Industrial Estate Mallusk Road Newtonabbey BT36 4PX T: 028 9034 2660 W: www.costcuttersupermarketsgroup.com Chief Executive Officer: Darcy Willson-Rymer Trading Director: Huw Edwards Retail Director: Daniel Quest Sales Director (Costcutter & kwiksave): Jamie Davison Sales Director (Supershop): Duncan Jelfs Customer Services Director: David Thompson Marketing Director: Jenny Wilson Finance Director: Bob Marshall HR Director: Stuart Price Strategy & Operations Director: Steve Potter IT Director: Kevin Widdrington NI Regional Sales Manager (Costcutter & kwiksave): John Clarke T: 07885 200028

85

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

retailers guide

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

retailers guide NI Regional Sales Manager (Supershop): Adrian O’Brien T: 077 4775 2580

Sales & Marketing Director: Paddy Doody

Interim Commercial Director: Nigel Briggs

Corporate Marketing Controller: Bronagh Luke

Finance Director: Matt Myers

DAYTODAY 1-15 Dargan Crescent Duncrue Road Belfast BT3 9HJ T: 028 9078 4800

Brand Marketing Controller: Brenda Mulligan

SuperValu Centra Sales Director: Nigel Maxwell

PR & Communications Officer: Emma Armer

Mace Sales Director: Trevor Magill

Channel Sales Managers: Stephen Gibson, Sarah Halliday

HR Director: Sandra Mahood

Regional Sales Manager (Supermarkets): Paul Deans

Centra Customer Manager: Norman Bennett

Regional Sales Managers: David Bennett, Jonathan Finlay, Donal Bryce Caroline Rowan, William Bill

SuperValu Customer Manager: Connor McCann

NI Director: Michael McCormack NI Retail Sales Manager: Andrea Keers T: 075 2595 1587 DayToday/On-line Support: 028 9078 4809

Fresh Foods Development Manager (HWL): Laura Johnson HENDERSON GROUP Hightown Avenue Mallusk Newtownabbey Co. Antrim BT36 4RT T: 028 9034 2733 F: 028 9034 2484 E: info@henderson-group.com W: www.henderson-group.com

Trading Controller: Glen Howe Trading Managers: Edward Burns, Brendan Dumigan, Eugene McCabe, Michelle Dineen, David Quigg Fresh Foods Trading Controller: Nigel Dugan

Communications Manager: Kate Ferguson

NISA Nisa Retail Limited Member Support Centre Waldo Way Normanby Enterprise Park Scunthorpe DN15 9GE T: 017 2428 2028 E: firstname.surname@nisaretail.com W: www.nisaretail.com

Chairman, Henderson Group: John Agnew

Fresh Foods Manager (HRL): David Hamilton

Joint Managing Director: Martin Agnew

Fresh Foods Development Manager (HRL): Healey Martin

Joint Managing Director: Geoffrey Agnew

Fresh Food Trading Managers: Steven Kennedy, Iain Dickson, Alistair Kelly Noel McGregor

Finance Director: Simon Webster

New Product Project Manager: Jane Pyper

Marketing Director: Ian Bishop

Fresh Food Buying Manager: Eddie Blair

IT Director: Wayne Swallow

Henderson Print Manager: Alan Ritchie

Logistics Director: Jon Stowe

Group Finance Director: Ron Whitten Henderson Retail Director: Mark McCammond Information Systems Director: Andrew Logan Group Operations Director: Patrick McGarry Trading Director: Alan Fitzsimmins Fresh Foods Director: Neal Kelly Group Property Director: Mark Adrain Human Resources Director: Sam Davidson 8 • •Ulster 3686 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

MUSGRAVE RETAIL PARTNERS NI 1 – 19 Dargan Drive Belfast BT3 9JG T: 028 9078 7100 F: 028 9078 7101 E: succeed@musgrave.ie W: www.musgravegroup.com Acting Managing Director: Damian McCarney

FASCIAS: Nisa Extra, Nisa Local, Independent fascia Chief Executive Officer: Neil Turton

Business Unit Director (Symbol): Nigel Gray Business Unit Director (Indies & Specialists): Steve Leach Interim Trading Director: Elaine Robinson Business Manager Fresh & Frozen: Jon White

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

retailers guide Business Manager BWS & Tobacco: Asa Chamberlain

Sales Director: John Whitten

Business Manager Grocery: David Stokes

Trading Director: Alan Dorman

Business Manager Local Sourcing & Grey: Jonathan Verner

Finance Director: Barry Duffy

Head of Trading Support: Nigel Ashton

Warehouse Manager: Philip Hughes

Head of Retail Ireland: Pat Leneghan T: 079 5035 5991

Marketing Manager: Julie Burden

Retail Development Manager NI: Noel Hadden T: 078 2484 5436 Retail Development Manager ROI: Steven O’Doherty T: 00 353 87 291 3016

Transport Manager: Sean McNeill IT Manager: Conor Duffy HR Manager: Jill Cowan

Store Development Manager: Paul Cherry T: 078 5502 8099

Today’s Savage & Whitten Wholesale Ltd Unit 1a Carnbane Business Park Newry Co Down BT35 6QH T: 028 3026 3521 F: 028 3025 1103 E: info@sandwni.com W: www.savageandwhitten.com Today’s Team: Sales & Marketing Director: Michael Skelton Today’s Store Development: Maurice Little & Gerry Nelson Today’s Sales Manager: Chris McGaw Business Development Managers: Martin Mullin & Mark Forsythe Business Development Manager ROI : Arron Potts S&W TEAM: Managing Director: Mark Windebank Operations Director: Norman Savage IT Director: Richard Whitten

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

FOOD FORCE IRELAND 7 West Bank Road Belfast BT3 9 JL Trading Controller: Debra Johnston T: 028 9092 3130 E: foodforceireland@btconnect.com

TRADE ORGANISATIONS DAIRY COUNCIL NORTHERN IRELAND Shaftesbury House Edgewater Business Park Belfast BT3 9JQ T: 028 9077 0113 F: 028 9078 1224 E: info@dairycouncil.co.uk W: www.dairycouncil.co.uk

Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland 10A - 10C Clarendon Road Belfast BT1 3BG T: 028 9041 7700 F: 028 9041 7726 E: infofsani@foodstandards.gsi.gov.uk W: www.food.gov.uk/northern-ireland Director: Maria Jennings

THE LIVESTOCK AND MEAT COMMISSION (NI) Lissue House 31 Ballinderry Road Lisburn BT28 2SL T: 028 9263 3000 F: 02892 63 3001 E: info@lmcni.com W: www.lmcni.com Chief Executive: Ian Stevenson

NATIONAL FEDERATION OF RETAIL NEWSAGENTS Yeoman House Sekforde Street London EC1R 0HF Head Office: 020 7253 4225 Helpline: 0800 121 6376 W: www.nfrnonline.com Membership Services Manager: Angela Simpson E: angela.simpson@nfrn.org.uk District President: Judy Mercer Vice-President: Gwen Patterson

FOOD NI LIMITED BELFAST MILLS 71-75 Percy Street Belfast BT13 2HW T: 028 9024 9449 E: info@nigoodfood.com W: www.nigoodfood.com Facebook.com/foodni Twitter: @Food_NI

NATIONAL PHARMACY ASSOCIATION 38-42 Peter’s Street St. Albans Hertfordshire AL1 3NP T: 017 2785 8687 E: npa@npa.co.uk W: www.npa.co.uk

Chief Executive: Michele Shirlow

Representation Manager NI: Anne McAlister T: 028 9266 1730 87

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

retailers guide NORTHERN IRELAND FOOD CHAIN CERTIFICATION Operations Centre Lissue House 31 Ballinderry Road Lisburn BT28 2SL T: 028 9263 3017 F: 028 9263 3003 E: info@nifcc.co.uk W: www.nifcc.co.uk Operations Manager: Noel Lavery Company Secretary: Valerie McCann

NORTHERN IRELAND FOOD & DRINK ASSOCIATION Belfast Mills 71-75 Percy Street Belfast BT13 2HW T: 028 9024 1010 F: 028 9024 0500 E: info@nifda.co.uk W: www.nifda.co.uk Executive Director: Michael Bell E: mbell@nifda.co.uk PA to the Director: Joan Sherman E: joan@nifda.co.uk

NORTHERN IRELAND INDEPENDENT RETAIL TRADE ASSOCIATION (NIIRTA) 245 Upper Newtownards Road Ballyhackamore Belfast BT4 3JF T: 028 9022 0004 F: 028 9022 0005 E: info@niirta.com W: www.niirta.com Facebook.com/niirta Twitter: @niirta

NORTHERN IRLEAND PORK & BACON FORUM 475 Antrim Road Belfast BT15 3DA T: 028 9037 0222 F: 028 9037 1231 Chairman: Seamus Carr Executive Director: Deirdre McIvor E: deirdre.mcivor@ufuhq.com

PETROL RETAILERS ASSOCIATION/ RETAIL MOTOR INDUSTRY FEDERATION 201 Great Portland Street London WIW 5AB T: 020 7580 9122 F: 020 7307 3406 W: www.rmif.co.uk Membership Manager for PRA: Steve Coombe T: 078 3137 3205 E: steve.coombe@rmif.co.uk

SAFEFOOD 7 Eastgate Avenue Eastgate Little Island Co. Cork Ireland T: 00 353 21 230 4100 Helpline (NI): 0800 085 1683 E: info@safefood.eu Twitter: @safefoodnetwork Chief Executive: Ray Dolan

Chief Executive: Glyn Roberts

ULSTER CHEMISTS’ ASSOCIATION 2nd Floor Strand House 102 Holywood Road BELFAST BT4 1NU E: info@uca.org.uk W: www.uca.org.uk

Office Manager: Lisa McMaster

Secretary: Adrienne Clugston

President: Paul Stewart Chairman: Nigel Maxwell

8 • •Ulster 3688 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

ULSTER FARMERS’ UNION Dunedin 475 Antrim Road Belfast BT15 3DA T: 028 9037 0222 F: 028 9037 1231

W: www.ufuni.org Chief Executive: Clarke Black E: cblack@ufuhq.com

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

BRAND INDEX 1001 (Carpet Cleaner, Shampoo, All-Purpose Cleaner & Freshener) Johnson Brothers

Annabel Karmel Disney Snacks Annabel Karmel UB Foods Division

4head Dendron Ltd Allegro Distribution Ltd

Annaghmore Mushrooms More Goodness Annaghmore Mushrooms

A Ace Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd

Ariel Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Askeys SHS Sales & Marketing Astral Dendron Ltd Allegro Distribution Ltd

Addlestones Tennent’s NI

Atrixo Beiersdorf UK Allegro Distribution Ltd

Airwick SHS Sales & Marketing

Aunt Bessie’s Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd

Alberto Balsam Hair Products Johnson Brothers

Aussie Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd.

Allinson Allied Bakeries Alka Seltzer Johnson Brothers Always Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Ambi Pur Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Amoy Coconut Milk HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Amoy Soy Sauce HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Amoy Straight to Wok Noodles HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Amoy Straight to Wok Stir Fry Sauces HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Anadin Johnson Brothers Andrews Flour Johnson Brothers Annabel Karmel Annabel Karmel UB Foods Division 8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

Autan SC Johnson Allegro Distribution Ltd Aveeno Skincare Johnson Brothers

Bachelors Canned Vegetables SHS Sales & Marketing Bachelors Condensed Canned Soups SHS Sales & Marketing Bainne Ur Strathroy Dairy Ballyrashane Ballyrashane Barr Soft Drinks Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd Barry’s Tea Barry’s Tea UB Foods Division Bass Tennent’s NI Bazooka Candy Brands Topps International UB Foods Division Bazuka Treatment Gel Dendron Ltd Allegro Distribution Ltd Becks Tennent’s NI Benadryl (Allergy Relief) Johnson Brothers

B Bakers Best McColgan’s Quality Foods Ltd Bacardi 8 Year Old Rum Bacardi Brown-Forman Bacardi & Cola Premix Cans Bacardi Brown-Forman Bacardi Gold Rum Bacardi Brown-Forman Bacardi Mojito Bacardi Brown-Forman Bacardi Oakheart Bacardi Brown-Forman

Benylin Cough Syrup & Flu Remedies Johnson Brothers Bepanthen Johnson Brothers Berocca Johnson Brothers Besco Canned Fruit & Vegetables Johnson Brothers Besco Canned Tomatoes (Italian) Johnson Brothers Distributing Bic (Pens, Razors) Johnson Brothers Blackthorn Tennent’s NI Blenders (Mayonnaise & Sauces) Johnson Brothers

Bacardi Razz Bacardi Brown-Forman

Blistex Dendron Ltd Allegro Distribution Ltd

Bacardi Superior Rum Bacardi Brown-Forman

Bloo SHS Sales & Marketing 89

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

BRAND INDEX Blue Dragon (Stir-Fry Sauces, Cooking Sauces, Noodles, Condiment Sauces) Johnson Brothers

Brillo SC Johnson Allegro Distribution Ltd

BN Biscuits United Biscuits UK Ltd

Budweiser Tennent’s NI

Bold Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd

Burgen Allied Bakeries

Bombay Sapphire Bacardi Brown-Forman

Butterkist Tangerine Confectionery Ltd UB Foods Division

Bonduelle Bonduelle Ltd UB Foods Division Bonjela SHS Sales & Marketing Bonne Maman Boyne Valley Group

C

Bottlegreen SHS Sales & Marketing

Cacaolat Tennent’s NI

Boyne Valley Honey Boyne Valley Group

Caledonia Smooth Tennent’s NI

Brahma Tennent’s NI

Calpol Johnson Brothers

Bramble Hill Fruit Juices Mulrines

Calypso Soft Drinks Calypso Soft Drinks Ltd UB Foods Division

Brandy Mackle Petfoods Brandy Complete Mackle Petfoods Brannigans KP Snacks Ltd Brasso SHS Sales & Marketing Braun Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Brazilian Corned Beef Johnson Brothers Distributing Breezer Orange Bacardi Brown-Forman Breezer Spritzer Mixed Berry Bacardi Brown-Forman Breezer Watermelon Bacardi Brown-Forman Breville Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd. 8 • •Ulster 3690 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

Campbell’s Soups Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd Candyland Tangerine Confectionery Ltd UB Foods Division Carefree Johnson Brothers Carex Toiletries Johnson Brothers Carr’s United Biscuits UK Ltd Cat Club Mackle Petfoods Castle Lea Moy Park Centrum Multivitamins Johnson Brothers Certo Pectin Johnson Brothers Chambord Bacardi Brown-Forman

Champion Professional Mackle Petfoods Chapstick Johnson Brothers Chef Sauces & Pickles Valeo Foods Ireland UB Foods Division Chewitts SHS Sales & Marketing Chicken Tonight Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd Chivers Jelly & Jams Boyne Valley Group Choc Dips KP Snacks Ltd Chupa Chups Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd Cillit Bang SHS Sales & Marketing Citation Sweetcorn (Canned) Johnson Brothers Distributing Clean & Clear Johnson Brothers Clear Blue Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Clonmel 1650 Tennent’s NI Compeed Foot Care Johnson Brothers Colgate SHS Sales & Marketing Colpermin Johnson Brothers Cookeen SHS Sales & Marketing Cookstown Range Karro Food Group Corona Tennent’s NI Country Spring Tennent’s NI Crisp & Dry Oils SHS Sales & Marketing Crest Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

BRAND INDEX Crosse & Blackwell Canned Soups SHS Sales & Marketing

Dromona Dale Farm Ltd

Crosse & Blackwell Canned Vegetables SHS Sales & Marketing

Duracell Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd

Cuisine de France Aryzta Food Solutions

Durex SHS Sales & Marketing

Cussons (Toiletries) Johnson Brothers

D Dale Farm Dale Farm Ltd Daz Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd. Del Monte Del Monte Allegro Distribution Ltd Dentinox Dendron Ltd Allegro Distribution Ltd Dentyl Dendron Ltd Allegro Distribution Ltd Dettol SHS Sales & Marketing Diabetic Jams (Stute) Johnson Brothers Discos KP Snacks Ltd Disprin SHS Sales & Marketing

E E45 SHS Sales & Marketing Easystands Ulster Exhibitions Ltd Eco Logs Bord Na Mona Allegro Distribution Ltd

Douwe Egberts Coffee SHS Sales & Marketing Dreamland Interactive (IRL) Ltd Dreft Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd 8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

Feminax Johnson Brothers Fenjal Dendron Ltd Allegro Distribution Ltd Ferrara Pasta Johnson Brothers Distributing Ferrero Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd Finches Tennent’s NI Finish SHS Sales & Marketing Finlandia Classic Vodka Bacardi Brown-Forman Finlandia Cranberry Bacardi Brown-Forman

Elastoplast Beiersdorf UK Allegro Distribution Ltd

Finlandia Grapefruit Bacardi Brown-Forman

Ella’s Kitchen Baby Food Johnson Brothers

Firelog Bord Na Mona Allegro Distribution Ltd

Erganagh Strathroy Dairy Erin Boyne Valley Group Eristoff Black Bacardi Brown-Forman Eristoff Vodka Bacardi Brown-Forman Euthymol (Toothpaste) Johnson Brothers

Don Carlos Olives Boyne Valley Group Dorset Luxury Cereals (Muesli) Johnson Brothers

Febreze Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd

F

Firepak Bord Na Mona Allegro Distribution Ltd Fivemiletown Dale Farm Fixodent Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd. Flahavan’s E Flahavan & Sons Ltd UB Foods Division Flash Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Flora Oils SHS Sales & Marketing Franziskaner Tennent’s NI

Fairy Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd

Frisps KP Snacks Ltd

Farmlea SHS Sales & Marketing

Fruitfield Preserves UB Foods Division 91

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

BRAND INDEX

Fruittella Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd

G Gaviscon SHS Sales & Marketing Genesis Crafty Pancakes Genesis Crafty Genesis Crafty Raspberry Jam Bakes & Iced Topped Madeira Sponge Genesis Crafty Genesis Crafty Scones Genesis Crafty Genesis Crafty Sodas Genesis Crafty Genesis Crafty Wheaten Genesis Crafty Gentleman Jack Bacardi Brown-Forman George Foreman Interactive (IRL) Ltd Germolene Johnson Brothers Gillette Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Giovanni Di Firenze Spice Grinders Boyne Valley Group Glade SC Johnson Allegro Distribution Ltd Goddards SC Johnson Allegro Distribution Ltd Goddess Canned Tuna Johnson Brothers Distributing Grey Goose La Poire Bacardi Brown-Forman Grey Goose Le Citron Bacardi Brown-Forman Grey Goose L’Orange Bacardi Brown-Forman Grey Goose Original Bacardi Brown-Forman

8 • •Ulster 3692 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

H

Harpic SHS Sales & Marketing Harringtons Wagg Dog Foods UB Foods Division Harvest Fare Boyne Valley Group Head & Shoulders Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Heinz Baby Cereals HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Heinz Baby Drinks HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Heinz Baby Fruity Custard Pots HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Heinz Baby Snacks and Rusks HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Heinz Baby Mum’s Own Recipe HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Heinz Barbecue Sauce HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Heinz Beanz HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Heinz Mayonnaise HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Heinz Salad Cream HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct

Herbal Essence Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Hermesetas Sweeteners Johnson Brothers Heverlee Tennent’s NI Hoegaarden Tennent’s NI Homecook Boyne Valley Group Hornsbys Tennent’s NI Hovis Hovis Bakeries Ireland Howell’s Handmade Irwin’s Bakery HP BBQ Sauce HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct HP Brown Sauce HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct HP Fruity Sauce HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Hula Hoops KP Snacks Ltd Hula Hoops Puft KP Snacks Ltd Hunky Dorys Crisps Northern Snack Foods

I Ibuleve Speed Relief Dendron Ltd Allegro Distribution Ltd

Heinz Soup HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct

Imodium Johnson Brothers

Heinz Tinned Pasta HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct

Imperial Leather (Luxury Soap & Toiletries) Johnson Brothers

Heinz Tomato Ketchup HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct

Infacare Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

BRAND INDEX Irish Breeze Boyne Valley Group

Johnson Baby Johnson Brothers

KP Nuts KP Snacks Ltd

Irn Bru Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd

Johnsons Coffee Johnson Brothers

Kulana Fruit Juices (Tetra Packs) Johnson Brothers Distributing

Irwin’s Irwin’s Bakery

Johnson & Johnson Adult Skincare Johnson Brothers

Kulana Pure Fruit Juices Mulrines

J J. Cloth Johnson Brothers Jacaranda Canned Pineapple Johnson Brothers Jack Daniel’s Bacardi Brown-Forman Jack Daniel’s Premix Cans Bacardi Brown-Forman Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Bacardi Brown-Forman Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey Bacardi Brown-Forman Jacob’s Club United Biscuits UK Ltd Jacob’s Cream Crackers United Biscuits UK Ltd Jacob’s Crispbreads United Biscuits UK Ltd

Jordans SHS Sales & Marketing Jucee SHS Sales & Marketing Juice Press Range of Premium Juices and Smoothies Mulrines Just Juice Del Monte Allegro Distribution Ltd

K

L Lakeshore Boyne Valley Group Lasting Colour Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Lees Macaroons, Snowballs, Teacakes & Confectionery Johnson Brothers

K Tennent’s NI

Leffe Tennent’s NI

Kandee Sauce Products Mulrines

Lemsip SHS Sales & Markteting

Kinder Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd

Lenor Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd

King Crisps Northern Snack Foods Kingsmill Allied Bakeries

Lifeforce Boyne Valley Group Lily O’Brien’s Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd

Jacob’s Its Just Coffee W & R Jacob & Co (NI) Ltd UB Foods Division

Kinnerton Character Confectionery Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd

Jaffa Gold Grapefruit Segments (Canned) Johnson Brothers Distributing

Killeen Boyne Valley Group

Jaffa Gold Juice Drinks Mulrines

Kiwi Sara Lee Allegro Distribution Ltd

Lindt Gold Bunny Lindt & Sprungli Ltd

Jameson’s Tangerine Confectionery Ltd UB Foods Division

Kleenoff SHS Sales & Marketing

Lindt Lindor Lindt & Sprungli Ltd

Jamie Oliver Moy Park

Knorr Pasteria/Soups Johnson Brothers

Lindt Swiss Luxury Selection Lindt & Sprungli Ltd

Jeyes SHS Sales & Marketing

Koka Boyne Valley Group

Listerine Johnson Brothers

Jessie Mackle Petfoods

KP Meanies Northern Snack Foods

Little Allotment Annaghmore Mushrooms

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

Lindt Bear Lindt & Sprungli Ltd Lindt Excellence Lindt & Sprungli Ltd

93

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

BRAND INDEX Loseley Dale Farm Ltd

Maxol Maxol Oil Ltd

Mortons Flour Johnson Brothers

Lotus Biscuits Johnson Brothers

Maxol Auto 24 Maxol Oil Ltd

Mothers Pride Hovis Bakeries Ireland

Loving Care Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd

Maxol Lubricants Maxol Oil Ltd

Moy Park Moy Park Ltd

Maxwash Maxol Oil Ltd

Mr Muscle SC Johnson Allegro Distribution Ltd

Lowenbrau Tennent’s NI Lypsyl SHS Sales & Marketing

M Magners Tennent’s NI Maguire & Paterson Matches & Firelighters SHS Sales & Marketing Maille Condiments Johnson Brothers Marigold SHS Sales & Marketing Mark Bric Ulster Exhibitions Ltd Mars Milk Drinks SHS Sales & Marketing Martini Asti Bacardi Brown-Forman Martini Bianco Bacardi Brown-Forman Martini Extra Dry Bacardi Brown-Forman Martini Prosecco Bacardi Brown-Forman Martini Rosato Bacardi Brown-Forman Martini Rose Bacardi Brown-Forman Martini Rosso Bacardi Brown-Forman Max Factor Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd

8 • •Ulster 3694 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

McColgan’s McColgan’s Quality Foods Ltd McColgan’s Choice Cuisine McColgan’s Quality Foods Ltd McCoy’s Crisps KP Snacks Ltd McDonnells Boyne Valley Group McGee’s Butcher Karro Food Group McVitie’s Breakfast Biscuits United Biscuits UK Ltd McVitie’s Chocolate Digestives United Biscuits UK Ltd McVitie’s Digestives United Biscuits UK Ltd McVitie’s Go Ahead!

United Biscuits UK Ltd McVitie’s Hob Nobs United Biscuits UK Ltd McVitie’s Jaffa Cakes United Biscuits UK Ltd McVitie’s Medley United Biscuits UK Ltd McVitie’s Mini Cheddars United Biscuits UK Ltd McVitie’s Penguin United Biscuits UK Ltd Menabrea Tennent’s NI Mentos Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd Mini Chips KP Snacks Ltd

Mr Sheen SHS Sales & Marketing Mugshots Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd Mullins Ice Cream Dale Farm

N Napolina SHS Sales & Marketing Nature Valley Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd Naturo Mackle Petfoods Neutrogena Johnson Brothers Nice n’ Easy Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Nice n’ Easy Root Touch Up Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Nicorette NRT Johnson Brothers Nimble Hovis Bakeries Ireland Nivea Beiersdorf UK Allegro Distribution Ltd

Moreish Maxol Oil Ltd

Nivea for Men Beiersdorf UK Allegro Distribution Ltd

Morning Fresh (Wash-Up) Johnson Brothers

Noilly Prat Dry Bacardi Brown-Forman

Nutella Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd

P

Palmolive SHS Sales & Marketing Panda Spreads Boyne Valley Group

O O’Donnells Northern Snack Foods O’Kane Moy Park Ltd Olay Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Olde English Tennent’s NI Old Spice Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Old Time Irish Marmalades Valeo Foods Ireland UB Foods Division

Pampers Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Pampers Kandoo Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Pantene Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Parozone SHS Sales & Marketing Parsons SHS Sales & Marketing Pasta (Ferrara) Johnson Brothers Distributing Patak (Spices, Indian Sauces, etc.)

Johnson Brothers Paterson Shortbread Johnson Brothers

Oral-B Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd

Patron Anejo Bacardi Brown-Forman

Organex Baby Foods SHS Sales & Marketing

Patron Reposado Bacardi Brown-Forman

Original Source Johnson Brothers

Patron Silver Bacardi Brown-Forman

Ormo Hovis Bakeries Ireland

Patron XO Café Bacardi Brown-Forman

Otis Spunkmeyer Aryzta Food Solutions

Pearl Drops (Tooth Powder) Johnson Brothers

Ormo Flour Johnson Brothers

Pepto-Bismol Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd

Otex Express Dendron Ltd Allegro Distribution Ltd

Pierre’s Aryzta Food Solutions Pink & White Wafers Johnson Brothers Piz Buin (In Sun Lotion) Johnson Brothers Pledge SC Johnson Allegro Distribution Ltd Plex Display Ulster Exhibitions Ltd Primula SHS Sales & Marketing Princes Food & Drink SHS Sales & Marketing Pringles Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Pro Plus Johnson Brothers

R Racheros Northern Sanck Foods Ragu Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd Raid SC Johnson Allegro Distribution Ltd Rankin Selection Irwin’s Bakery Rea Valley Meats (Canned) Johnson Brothers Distributing Reach Floss Johnson Brothers Reach Toothbrushes Johnson Brothers

Perfect 10 Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd

Redoxon Johnson Brothers

Oust SC Johnson Allegro Distribution Ltd

Perfetti Van Melle Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd

Reggae Reggae Sauces Johnson Brothers

Oxley Bacardi Brown-Forman

Phileas Fogg KP Snacks Ltd

Remington Interactive (IRL) Ltd

8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

Nurofen SHS Sales & Marketing

BRAND INDEX

95

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

BRAND INDEX Rennie Johnson Brothers Revostage Portable Staging Ulster Exhibitions Ltd Rockstar Energy Drinks Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd Rowan Glen Dale Farm Ltd Roysters KP Snacks Ltd Russell Hobbs Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Ryvita SHS Sales & Marketing

S Sanatogen Johnson Brothers Sanex SHS Sales & Marketing Sanyo Interactive (IRL) Ltd Savlon SHS Sales & Marketing Schwartz For Chef Johnson Brothers Seabrook Crisps Johnson Brothers Seattle’s Best Coffee Aryzta Food Solutions Senokot SHS Sales & Marketing Shloer SHS Sales & Marketing Shockwaves Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd

Silvikrin Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Silvo SHS Sales & Marketing Simple (Toiletries and Beauty Products) Johnson Brothers Skips KP Snacks Ltd SMA Milk and Baby Formula & Ready-to-Feed Johnson Brothers Sofidel, Nicky & Regina Paper Products Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd Soft & Gentle SHS Sales & Marketing Southern Comfort Bacardi Brown-Forman

Strathmourne Foods McColgan’s Quality Foods Ltd Strathroy Strathroy Dairy Strepsils SHS Sales & Marketing Stute Extra Jams Johnson Brothers Sudafed Johnson Brothers Sunblest Allied Bakeries Sunny Jim Standard Brands Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd Sunstream Splash Pouch Drinks Mulrines Superglo Firelighters Allegro Distribution Ltd

Southern Comfort Cherry Bacardi Brown-Forman Southern Comfort Premix Cans Bacardi Brown-Forman Space Raiders KP Snacks Ltd Spaten Tennent’s NI Speedicook Porridge Johnson Brothers Distributing Spelga Dale Farm Ltd Spontex Spontex Allegro Distribution Ltd Standard Brands Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd Staropramen Tennent’s NI St Dalfour 100% Fruit Spreads Johnson Brothers (Distributing) Limited Stella Artois Tennent’s NI Steradent SHS Sales & Marketing

T T-Gel Hair Care Johnson Brothers Tampax Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Tangerine Confectionery Tangerine Confectionery Ltd UB Foods Division Tennent’s Tennent’s NI Tipperary Natural Mineral Water Tennent’sNI Thermacare (Therapeutic Heat Wraps) Johnson Brothers Tic Tac Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd Tim Hortons Aryzta Food Solutions

Shout SC Johnson Allegro Distribution Ltd

St Germain Bacardi Brown-Forman

Toilet Duck SC Johnson Allegro Distribution Ltd

Silver Leaf Canned Fruit Johnson Brothers Distributing

Storck Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd

Tresemmé Hair Products Johnson Brothers

8 • •Ulster 3696 UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

TRADE DIRECTORY 2015

BRAND INDEX Tuaca Bacardi Brown-Forman Tunnocks SHS Sales & Marketing

V Valley Gold Diabetic Jams Valley Gold Allegro Distribution Ltd Vanish SHS Sales & Marketing Velvet Crunch Northern Snack Foods

Weight Watchers from Heinz Tinned Pasta HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Wella Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Werther’s Original Tennant & Ruttle Distribution Ltd White’s (Oat Cereals) Johnson Brothers Distributing Windolene SHS Sales & Marketing Woodchuck Tennent’s NI Woodford Reserve Bacardi Brown-Forman Woodwards Gripe Water SHS Sales & Marketing

Vicks Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Vileda SHS Sales & Marketing Vit Plus Tennent’s NI VO5 Hair Products Johnson Brothers

Y Yazoo Boyne Valley Group

W Wagg Wagg Dog Foods UB Foods Division Wash & Go Proctor & Gamble Interactive (IRL) Ltd Weight Watchers from Heinz Baked Beans HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Weight Watchers from Heinz Frozen Ready Meals HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct Weight Watchers from Heinz Soup HJ Heinz Company (Ireland) Ltd Direct 8 36• •Ulster UlsterGrocer Grocer| JANUARY | JANUARY2011 2011

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Q&A researched the market and, by using the combined purchasing power of the local food industry, we have worked together to reduce the costs for all in this highly competitive market. Soon to be launched, the Logistics Solution will be a highly valuable online export tool which will be of benefit not only to Access 6 SMEs but to the entire sector across Ireland.

Harry Hamilton

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? I love working with people. Those who work within the food and drink SME industry are very diverse but they share an enthusiasm and passion for their companies and their products that is highly infectious.

In the Hot Seat Harry Hamilton, project manager, Access 6 Programme TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF I’m a project manager for Northern Ireland Food and Drink (NIFDA) and I’m currently working on Access 6, a food and drink export development programme to assist food and drink SME exports into new markets. I have worked in the food industry for 30 years, primarily in sales and business development.

I am a family man, as I am married and have three teenage daughters. However some would say I lead a double life as many people know me better as Flash Harry. I’ve been performing in a Queen tribute band since 1992. I admit I bear a close resemblance to Freddie Mercury and I certainly love his music, but my stage persona and the real life Harry Hamilton are very different.

In addition to my role at NIFDA and my music career, I’ve been actively involved in politics, and I remain committed to helping Northern Ireland secure a shared future where we respect and celebrate our differences.

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY INVOLVE? ‘Typical’ days are rare! The job is equally split between office-based and in-market research and my role changes as the Access 6 programme progresses, ranging from company recruitment, or the procurement of specialist services such as consultants to the forecasting of budgets. Recently we have been focusing on workshops aimed at upskilling and training the companies so they 98

Flash Harry

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED? “You don’t close a sale, you open a relationship if you want to build a successful business.” I heard this advice at a sales improvement workshop I attended. It hit a note with me because it strikes at the very heart of sales and business development. You cannot provide a service to a customer if you don’t know them and the only way to know them is to build a relationship.

WHAT TALENT WOULD YOU LIKE TO HAVE? I wish I could speak more concisely. Coming from a sales background, I have a tendency to dilute the point by saying too much.

WHOM DO YOU MOST ADMIRE? I really admire the self-starters in the business world, those who built their companies from scratch and endured all the knocks along the way until they achieved success. And Freddie Mercury of course!

WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE? I grew up right beside Lurgan Park. It is a wonderful park complete with a manmade lake and electric swans. I have many happy memories about that area and I still find it comforting, like an old friend who has been a constant in my life.

have the background knowledge required for exporting.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE? In terms of Access 6, working on the new Logistics Solution has definitely been the highlight. Northern Ireland’s food and drink SMEs produce great products which have excellent export potential but this depends on competitive transport costs. The new Access 6 Logistics Solution addresses this issue. In partnership with DSV, a global supplier of transport and logistics solutions, we’ve developed a single logistic provider to streamline the export process. We’ve

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD PRODUCT? I have very simple tastes and the food product that has given me the most pleasure over the years is McVitie’s Homewheat – yes, the humble chocolate biscuit. I have also developed a taste for red wine.

HOW DO YOU RELAX? I have a teenage family, so what’s relaxation?!

When I get the chance I like to grab a movie, a thriller if possible. My singing career is also part relaxation for me. My latest project – American Songbook – is a tribute to the great American songwriters, including Cole Porter and Billy Joel. It’s a total change from performing as Flash Harry, but as always, I find time on stage to be strangely therapeutic.

TM

40 years at the heart of the Northern Ireland food industry

FEATURES LIST 2015 FEBRUARY Deadlines: Edit: 6/2/2015 – Ads: 6/2/2015 • Energy & Soft Drinks • The Big Breakfast • Free-From Foods • Easter & Spring • UG Marketing Awards Launch

AUGUST Deadlines: Edit 3/7/2015 – Ads 10/7/2015 • Franchise & Fascia • Display & Shopfitting • Newstand & In-Store Services • Halloween & Autumn • Food & Drink Show NI Preview

MARCH Deadlines: Edit 13/2/2015 – Ads 20/2/2015 • Focus on Exports • Food-to-Go • Dairy & Ice-Cream • Confectionery & Biscuits

SEPTEMBER Deadlines: Edit 14/8/2015 – Ads 21/8/2015 • Energy & Environment • Great Taste Awards 2015 • Hot Beverages • Festive Food & Drink

APRIL Deadlines: Edit 6/3/2015 – Ads 13/3/2015 • Crisps, Nuts & Snacks • Focus on Impulse • Tobacco, E-Cigs & Accessories • Balmoral Show Preview

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER Deadlines: Edit 11/9/2015 – Ads 18/9/2015 • Big Night In • Food Force Ireland • Paper, Cleaning & Toiletry Products • Tesco Taste 2015

MAY Deadlines: Edit 3/4/2015 – Ads 10/4/2015 • Focus on Marketing • UG Marketing Awards Shortlist • Breads, Cakes & Baked Goods • Food Processing & Packaging Equipment • Food Safety & Security • Balmoral Show Review

DECEMBER Deadlines: Edit 7/11/2015 – Ads 14/11/2015 • Meat, Fish & Poultry • Frozen & Chilled • Focus on Own-Label • 2016 Wallplanner

JUNE/JULY Deadlines: Edit 8/5/2015 – Ads 15/5/2015 • UG Marketing Awards Review • Top 25 Local Food & Drinks Companies & Rising Stars • Back To School

JANUARY 2016 Deadlines: Edit 4/12/2015 – Ads 4/12/2015 • Yearbook & Directory Listings

To advertise contact Mark Beckett on Tel: 028 9078 3235 or email: markbeckett@greerpublications.com

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Winner of Sustainability Award

Over £120,000 raised for NSPCC’s Childline Service

EUROSPAR in partnership with Love Food Hate Waste

Winners of Investors in People Award

UK’s Best Sales Assistant and Community Hero Award

Henderson Gro £642.8m tu up reports rnover

Employee health initiative raise vital funds for NICHS

Continued sponsorship of local active events

£150,000 donated to Tearfund through ‘Milk It’ Campaign

Over £370,000 has been raised for Cancer Fund for Children

SPAR Local Supplier of the Year Awards at Balmoral Show

SPAR and EUROSPAR scoop six awards at Retail Industry Awards

Contact us: 028 9034 2733 www.henderson-group.com