The November Issue of ShelfLIfe 2024

Festive fare

Irish shoppers are expected to surpass last year’s spending on Christmas essentials

Retail crime is out of control

Research conducted by ShelfLifehas highlighted that crime against retailers has escalated to reach epidemic proportions nationwide

Down to a fine artisan Blas na hÉireann 2024 had another impressive year across all categories, with many new producers joining the awards for the first time

Editor DONNA AHERN

donnaahern@mediateam.ie

Staff journalist

SHAUNA BERNARD

shauna.bernard@mediateam.ie

Contributors

SORCHA CORCORAN

TONY GALLAGHER

NIKKI MURRAN

Head of business

IAN MULVANEY (087) 2208486

ian.mulvaney@mediateam.ie

Account manager

MARK MORGAN (086) 8854930

mark.morgan@mediateam.ie

Circulation subs@mediateam.ie

Publisher JOHN McDONALD (01) 294 7744

john.mcdonald@mediateam.ie

Printing

W & G Baird Ltd

ShelfLife is a controlled circulation magazine, available to selected individuals with interests in the retail and wholesale grocery trade, who fall within the publisher’s terms of control. For those outside these terms, annual subscription is €98.00 including postage & packing.

Stock smart, celebrate big!

Christmas grocery shopping in Ireland is a vibrant and often bustling experience, as families prepare for the festive celebrations that center around hearty meals and togetherness. As the holiday season approaches, Irish supermarkets and local markets fill with an array of seasonal delights, from tender turkeys and goose to fresh seafood, often including smoked salmon and oysters.

Staple ingredients for traditional Christmas dinners, like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and potatoes, are in high demand, alongside rich, indulgent treats such as mince pies, Christmas puddings, and variety of decadent chocolates.

Many shoppers also stock up on festive beverages, including mulled wine, Irish whiskey, and creamy Baileys. The weeks leading up to Christmas see an increase in the number of shoppers, with queues becoming longer and aisles filling with customers picking out everything they need for Christmas Day feasts and the celebratory days that follow. The atmosphere is lively, with a sense of anticipation in the air as people cross off items from their lists and look forward to the holiday gatherings ahead.

I hope you enjoy this month’s festive edition, brimming with holiday inspiration. Turn to page 46 for Christmas Essentials, featuring seasonal delights like chocolate cream, mince pies, and decadent Christmas chocolates.

Sip into the holiday spirit with Christmas Drinks on page 55. From classic mulled wine, cream liqueurs, and champagne to unique, limited-edition beverages, find the perfect pour for every festive occasion.

Contents November

Managing director JOHN McDONALD Sales director PAUL BYRNE Operations director

BILLY HUGGARD

Published monthly by Mediateam Ltd., 55 Spruce Avenue, Sandyford, Dublin 18. A94 RP22

Telephone (01) 294 7776

Fax (01) 294 7799

ISSN: 1393 0753

COVER STORY

Donna Ahern, editor,

46 Christmas: This month’s ShelfLifeChristmas edition covers all festive essentials, from seasonal drinks to Christmas must-haves for the holidays

ANALYSIS

retailers gathered to express their frustrations.

30 Always Nearby: Thomas Kurain owner of Nearby North Circular Road, speaks with Shauna Bernard about the positive changes his store is bringing to Phibsborough

Celebrating community spirit: Centra in Kilcorgan underwent a significant revamp in 2018. Store owner Mike Kerrigan talks to Donna Ahern about how the store prides itself to enhancing the overall grocery shopping experience for customers 25 Retail crime is out of control: ShelfLife hosted a pivotal conference ‘Stop Crime Against Retailers’ (SCAR) at Fallon & Byrne in Dublin on 23 October. Trade

34 Fresh focus: Daybreak Ashbourne has evolved from a neighbourhood store into a highconvenience hub.

70 Social Diary: Check out who’s been out and about this month!

74 20 Quick Questions: Kathryn Mason managing director, Masonry PR

ADVISOR

rejuvenate Dublin City Centre. Former Garda inspector Tony Gallagher discusses the report and the rising concern of begging to retailers

32 Recruitment: Did you ever have an unbelievable manager? Someone who inspired you, who got the best out of you, and pushed you to work better, faster, and smarter? Asks Nikki Murran

NEWSGRID

The top news stories in FMCG and retail from across Ireland

Spar and Christmas FM launch ‘The Spar Christmas FM Song Contest 2024’

Spar has confirmed its sponsorship ‘The Spar Christmas FM Song Contest 2024’. The retailer and Christmas FM are on the hunt for the next big Christmas tune to become the winner of the radio station’s annual song contest.

Entrants across Ireland are asked to submit their application by 1 pm on Friday 29 November

M&S delivers ‘strong’ first half results, building on performance of last year

M&S has delivered strong first half results, building on performance of last year, its latest financial results show.

Food showed an 8.1% increase, according to the company’s half year results for the 26 weeks ended 28 September 2024

Consumer prices rise 0.7% in October led by alcohol and tobacco

Flogas launches “The Gas Part” campaign

Flogas has recently launched its new advertising campaign, “The Gas Part”, a humorous, multi-platform initiative.

The campaign underscores that Flogas powers a lot more than just gas, providing electricity, solar and EV charging too.

“The Gas Part” campaign promotes Flogas as the ultimate Dual Fuel choice for Irish households.

Hunter Media Group launched as parent company for three Irish marketing agencies

Lynn Hunter, founder of Hunter Communications, The Collaborations Agency and Social Content HQ has announced the restructuring of her three agencies under a new parent company, Hunter Media Group (HMG).

HMG combines the public relations, influencer marketing and content creation services that the three agencies previously provided separately

The Central Statistics Office (CSO) has recently published the Consumer Price Index (CPI) October 2024

Anthony Dawson, Statistician in the Prices Division, CSO, noted the release of the CPI shows that prices for consumer goods and services in October 2024 rose by 0.7% on average when compared with October 2023.

BWG Foods wins Sustainability Initiative of the Year at All Ireland Sustainability Awards

BWG Foods recently accepted the award for Sustainability Initiative of the Year at the All Ireland Sustainability Awards at the La Mon Hotel & Country Club, Belfast.

The All-Ireland Sustainability organisation is a platform dedicated to uniting individuals, communities, and businesses to create a greener future for the island of Ireland.

Boots Ireland opens new store in Cork City, creates 15 jobs

Boots Ireland recently announced the opening of a new flagship store on Half Moon St., Cork City, creating 15 new jobs. The move represents a €4.4 million investment, the retailer noted.

Stephen Watkins, managing director of Boots Ireland, commented: “This €4.4 million investment represents a significant milestone for Boots Ireland.”

Tesco Ireland creates nearly 1,200 temporary roles for the festive season

Tesco Ireland has announced the creation of nearly 1,200 temporary festive roles across its Superstores and Extra stores nationwide These roles are designed to offer flexible hours, a variety of shift options, and competitive benefits from day one, making them attractive for individuals seeking work over the festive season.

Glanbia announces new operating model in Q3 2024 update

Glanbia plc is issuing this Interim Management Statement for the nine month period ended 5 October 2024 (“the period” or “YTD Q3 2024”).

Glanbia continued to deliver good momentum during the third quarter, driven by revenue growth across its portfolio of better nutrition brands and ingredients such as Optimum Nutrition and Isopure. ■

Ballincollig crowned Ireland’s Tidiest Town 2024

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD has recently announced Ballincollig, Co Cork as Ireland’s Tidiest Town for 2024

More than 600 TidyTowns volunteers were present at the SuperValu TidyTowns awards ceremony at Croke Park in Dublin with the event live streamed to many more online

This year, 904 towns were competing for the prestigious awards demonstrating the continuing huge national interest in the SuperValu TidyTowns competition, which has been running since 1958.

Ballincollig Co Cork was named as Ireland’s Tidiest Town as well as Ireland’s Tidiest Large Urban Centre.

Minister Humphreys also presented the Young Person in TidyTowns award to Ballyphehane TidyTowns, Co Cork as well as the ‘Town Centre First National Award’ to Carrickmacross TidyTowns, Co Monaghan recognising their tremendous efforts to address vacancy and dereliction in line with the Government’s ‘Town Centre First‘ policy.

“I want to recognise the vital role of volunteers across the country who are working so hard all

Hale introduces Pro Salts range as alternative to disposable vapes

The Hale Pro Salts range was designed with the view of creating the ultimate alternative to disposables and the current flavour trends we’re seeing in those devices.

The Pro Salts range is made in Hale’s ISO 9001:2015 accredited manufacturing facility in Carlow.

Its ingredients are fully certified and sourced within the EU from ISO certified suppliers.

year round to ensure our communities are vibrant, sustainable places to live, work and visit,” said Minister Humphreys.

He noted that the volunteers are truly an inspiration, and the embodiment of everything that is good in communities.

Other winners

Some of the other winners on the day included:

• Ballinahown, Co Westmeath was awarded Ireland’s Tidiest Village

• Blackrock, Co Louth was awarded Ireland’s Tidiest Small Town.

• Westport, Co Mayo was awarded Ireland’s Tidiest Large Town.

• Ballincollig, Co Cork was awarded Ireland’s Tidiest Large Urban Centre.

Minister Humphreys added that SuperValu has been a loyal supporter and sponsor of the competition for more than 30 years and continues to champion sustainability through their supportive network of retailers countrywide

“The team has worked very closely with my

All liquids are fully registered with the EU and with the HSE and TPD legislation. Hale independently tested all its liquids to ensure they are of the highest quality

Unlike standard Hale e-Liquids, which use ‘freebase nicotine’, Hale Pro Salts come in 10mg and 20mg salt nicotine, this is the same type of nicotine that is used in disposable vapes.

Nicotine salts have a faster absorption rate for a more satisfying, quicker response to your cravings.

Nicotine salts also have the added benefit of providing a smoother overall vape, without the harshness that usually comes with high nicotine

Undergoing months of testing, and 100s of variations, the Pro Salts are perfectly balanced and offer flavours for all taste preferences.

As a retailer, you may have heard that the Government is proposing changes to the rules and regulations around vaping.

As a retailer who sells to some of the 400,000 adult vapers in Ireland, this will directly impact you.

Department to make sure that this competition continues to be a success Many of our groups have entered the competition consecutively for over 50 years – demonstrating a great example of dedication to their communities,” he said.

Minister Humphreys also announced a special allocation of €1.5 million in funding to support the work of TidyTowns groups in their continued efforts to make their towns and villages better places to live, work and visit.

Full details of all this year’s winners are available at www.tidytowns.ie

Walsh PR commemorates 40 years!

Walsh PR, one of Ireland’s most trusted and established PR agencies, marked forty years in business with their clients at an intimate event in the Merrion Dublin last month. The event, MC’d by broadcast journalist Sarah McInerney, celebrated the agency’s significant milestone and offered clients across the food, health, sustainability and NGO sectors the opportunity to hear from a leading expert in behavioural change marketing, Peter Mitchell of Marketing for Change

Walsh PR’s clients including those in the food and retail sector such as Golden Bake, Flahavan’s, RGDATA and Tirlán were in attendance.

Ballincollig, Co. Cork, SuperValu TidyTowns competition winners

Ballinahowan, Co. Westmeath, SuperValu TidyTowns competition winners

Blackrock, Co. Louth, SuperValu TidyTowns competition winners

Westport, Co. Mayo, SuperValu TidyTowns competition winners 2024

are fully compliant

Hale Pro Salts range

Pictured at the event were Sarah McInerney, RTE Broadcaster and Event MC, with Maeve Governey, Walsh, and Eithne O’Hara, Tirlán

Pictured at the event were Tara Buckley, RGDATA, with Maeve Governey, Walsh

Pictured at the event were Orlaith Mc Quaid from Walsh, Niamh Wynne from Golden Bake, Maeve Governey, Walsh, and Robin Jones, Golden Bake.

2024 Homegrown at Maxol winners revealed

Following a nationwide search for Ireland’s finest indigenous food and drinks products, Maxol has recently announced that five local producers stood out from all applications and have been declared winners in its 2024 Homegrown at Maxol programme

Now in its second year, Homegrown at Maxol was created to shine a light on Ireland’s world class artisan food and drink industry

The Homegrown at Maxol initiative provides winning producers with the support and tools needed to help scale-up and grow their businesses, with a free listing across the Maxol store network in the Republic of Ireland, along with invaluable mentorship from leading retailers together with PR and marketing support.

The 2024 Homegrown at Maxol winners who will be championed by Maxol are:

• All Real Nutrition

• Blanco Niño

• Parachute

• fiid

• The Foods of Athenry

“We have selected products that I know will be loved by both our

are the five Homegrown at Maxol winners with podcasters James Kavanagh and William Murray, alongside Maxol’s Eilis Hamilton and Pauline McCarthy (Pic: Dylan Vaughan)

retailers and our customers, and that are made by people whose sense of purpose aligns with our own values.

“Not only are these fantastic-tasting products but, where possible, they are produced using sustainable and traditional methods, natural ingredients and eco-friendly packaging,” said Brian Donaldson, CEO Maxol Group

Garvey’s Newcastlewest wins ‘National Centra Store of the Year 2024’

Garvey’s Centra Newcastlewest was awarded the prestigious title of ‘National Centra Store of the Year’ for 2024, being officially recognised as the top Centra in Ireland. This recognition was awarded at the Pride of Centra awards, Centra’s national award ceremony, celebrating the exceptional standards of the world-class convenience brand.

Alongside 19 other finalist stores selected from over 490 Centra locations across Ireland, Garvey’s Centra Newcastlewest, was shortlisted for the much-coveted accolade at the Pride of Centra Awards, which was held in the Dublin Royal Convention Centre on the 6 November The Pride of Centra awards recognise and celebrate the best of Centra stores, its people and exemplary retail excellence.

Garvey’s Centra Newcastlewest edged out competing Centra stores from all over Ireland, with those shortlisted being audited and adjudicated by independent competition judge and retail consultant, Dr Alan Collins. The ‘Store of the Year’ award, sponsored by Three, was determined based on store audits that focused on product range and quality, customer service, store presentation and innovation, fresh food offering, store hygiene standards, and sustainability

This award celebrates the remarkable commitment to excellence consistently demonstrated by the team at Garvey’s Centra Newcastlewest

Other award winners on the night across the People and Excellence awards included the ‘Rising Star’ award going to Erin Williams from Wright’s Centra UCD and Centra’s ‘Best Deli’ counter awarded to Lee’s Centra Limerick Road. The Overall OffLicence of the Year award, sponsored by Diageo, was awarded to Dunne’s Centra Stamullen.

Commenting on the award ceremony, Luke Hanlon, managing director, Centra, said: “As Ireland’s leading convenience retailer, with a dedicated team of approximately 12,000 employees across over 490 stores nationwide, we are incredibly proud to celebrate the remarkable individuals and teams who bring Centra to life, every day in every community These are the people who embody our values and play a crucial role in telling our story, ensuring that each Centra store feels like a vital part of the town it serves.”

Introducing the Forde Suites

The Johnstown Estate, a four-star luxury hotel and spa in Enfield, Co Meath, 30 minutes from Dublin city centre and 35 minutes from Dublin International Airport, is pleased to announce the launch of the latest addition to the Irish conference scene, its state-of-theart standalone conference centre, The Forde Suites. Developed with an investment exceeding €9 million, The Forde Suites is an impressive, multipurpose conference facility which can cater for groups of all sizes, including large conferences with up to 1,000 delegates. With a current workforce exceeding 370, the opening of the conference centre is poised to create an additional 50 jobs at the four-star hotel and spa, offering a significant boost to business tourism in the Meath area.

The versatile venue is perfect for a wide range of events including award ceremonies, trade shows, car launches, exhibitions, seminars and team-building activities. The Forde Suites features bright, spacious areas with moveable walls, high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows and plush furnishings and boasts its own private entrance.

Anthony Smiddy, group general manager, The Johnstown Collection, said: “The launch of The Forde Suites cements The Johnstown Estate’s position as a key player in the business tourism sector in Ireland. We take immense pride in the exceptional facility we have created and our expert team is excited to collaborate with both existing and new corporate clients to deliver unforgettable events in a remarkable setting.”

To find out more about The Forde Suites brought to you by The Johnstown Estate, Enfield, Co Meath, visit: www.thejohnstownestate.com

Pictured

Garvey’s Centra Newcastlewest team receiving their award

Forest Feast-owner acquires Indie

Bay Snacks

Pioneering snack manufacturer, Kestrel Foods, has announced that it has acquired Indie Bay Snacks from Nurture Brands.

Nurture Brands was founded in March 2019, and the plant-based portfolio includes Rebel Kitchen, Jax Coco and EMILY.

The brand will join Kestrel Food’s awardwinning portfolio of Forest Feast, Acti-Snack and Just Live a Little, continuing its trajectory to become a leading player in the snacking category Indie Bay Snacks offers consumers tasty and healthier savoury snacks within the grocery,

travel and DTC channels.

Its pretzel thins are a lighter, fun way to enjoy pretzels, with 70% less fat than crisps.

Michael Hall MBE, founder and CEO of Kestrel Foods said that the acquisition of Indie Bay is aligned to the business’ ambition of creating a fast paced and innovative snacking business.

“We believe Indie Bay offers consumers and customers something different in our portfolio, and we see great potential for growth through our strong brand, innovation and go to market capability,” he added.

Musgrave MarketPlace expands scholarship programme with TU Dublin

Musgrave MarketPlace, the only 100% Irish-owned national foodservice, retail, and SME wholesaler and part of the wider Musgrave Group, has announced an expansion of its scholarship programme with Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin).

As part of its ongoing commitment to the Irish food and hospitality industry Musgrave MarketPlace will be supporting more students financially through three-year scholarships alongside providing access to industry mentors and events.

The enhanced scholarship programme follows an investment of more than €350k in the creation of a state-of-the-art student training restaurant at the university’s Grangegorman campus.

“Across the Musgrave Group, we have a long and proud heritage in food across the island of Ireland and believe in prioritising investment in Ireland’s Future Food Leaders,” said Desi Derby, director of marketing, Musgrave MarketPlace.

The Musgrave MarketPlace mentors will be on hand to provide industry and business guidance to students to help broaden their knowledge and expertise while there will be networking opportunities at industry and in-branch events.

Derby noted that Musgrave MarketPlace wants to ensure it is doing all it can to help support these students as they look to develop and grow within the industry

As Ireland’s leading centre of education and innovation for the Food, Drink & Hospitality Sector, TU Dublin is a driving force behind Ireland’s culinary renaissance, training many of Ireland’s leading chefs, food innovators, hoteliers and entrepreneurs.

“TU Dublin graduates already excel in food related sectors in Ireland and across the world, and the mentorship and financial support provided by the scholarships will provide life changing opportunities for more of our students to reach even higher and go further,” said Dr Denise O’Leary, head of school of culinary arts and food technology, TU Dublin.

Felix brings the pet and music industry together like never before

Purina has announced Felix, the best-selling cat food brand across Europe, is hitting the road with global superstar, Robbie Williams, as headline sponsor of his 2025 European Tour

The tour marks the continuation of the partnership between the brand and the internationally acclaimed recording artist, with Robbie Williams writing a song, ‘It’s Great to Be a Cat’, exclusively for the brand’s advertising campaign last year

The mischievous duo will be visiting 18 countries in Europe, starting on 31 May 2025 in Edinburgh, Scotland (UK) and playing Croke Park Dublin 23 August.

Robbie Williams says: “I’m a proud cat owner, and whilst I can’t bring my cats on the road I am able to bring Felix on board as the headline sponsor of next year’s tour.”

Fabio Pietro Degli Esposti, european marketing group director Nestle Purina said: “It’s a very exciting moment for us to continue our successful collaboration with Robbie Williams and Felix and connect two industries in such an unexpected way – for Purina and for the whole pet industry.”

For more information about Robbie Williams’ tour and full date list visit tickets.robbiewilliams. com or robbiewilliams.com/live ■

Indie Bay’s Lightly Salted Pretzel Thins

Dr. Denise O’Leary, head of School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology, TU Dublin (left) joins students Midhnav Manoj, Miguel Patrick Kongthon and Lohgan Whitt alongside Desi Derby, marketing director Musgrave Wholesale Partners

CSNA NEWS

GUS O’HARA National President, CSNA

CSNA deals partner announces retail insurance offering

Despite all the positive regulatory changes aimed at driving down the cost of insurance, you may still be paying too much!

JDM are delighted to announce that they have negotiated a new scheme for our Convenience Store, Forecourt and Supermarket clients.

By placing your insurance with JDM you will have the peace of mind that your insurance is placed with a specialist broker who have extensive knowledge of the Retail Insurance community.

Contact CSNA on 045535050 for more information.

CSNA met with Minister McEntee and Minister Higgins at Retail Forum meeting

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee and Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Emer Higgins, recently met with the Department of Enterprise’s Retail Forum members.

The meeting of the Forum was an opportunity for the Ministers to listen and engage further on issues of concern to retailers; to provide information on An Garda Síochána’s Operation Táirge, which is dedicated to tackling organised retail theft nationally; and to inform the members of the new whole of government approach to Community Safety policy, including the establishment of the new Local Community Safety Partnerships nationally.

Small number of people ‘making a mockery’ of taxpayer-funded courts

with ‘hopeless claims

As members are only too painfully aware, the cost, (even the threat) of incurring cost for legal defence, can force retailers into feeling that they have no option but to agree to make an offer to an aggrieved party who has managed to trick a staff member into “defaming” them.

We do not accept that everyone has an absolute right to access the court system, and we certainly will never accept that frivolous matters need take up the valuable time of our judges.

There should be a screening process in advance of filing a claim that, 1) asserts a serious harm has been committed and details of such harm are submitted, and 2) an irrevocable guarantee from the injured party that, if they fail in their pursuit for damages, they will forfeit the cash bond they have lodged and that their solicitors will explain the full extent of their obligations to pay costs that exceed the bond. Solicitors cannot be immune from

responsibility; if they accept cases that a judge subsequently adjudicates as being wholly without merit, the judge should be entitled to award costs not only against the plaintiff, but also against the law firm.

Everyone has a right to defend their good name, everyone should be allowed to have their grievance heard, but we say that such rights need to have tests applied to ensure the process is not abused.

CSNA DEALS PARTNER

CSNA MEETING

CSNA NEWS

Power Up grant registration extended to Friday 22 November

Over 75% eligible businesses registered for €4,000.

CSNA are delighted after representation made to the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment on behalf of our members that Minister Peter Burke TD, announced that the Power Up grant registration deadline has been extended to 22 November 2024.

The Power Up grant was announced by government in Budget 2025. It has a budget of €170 million and is aimed at SMEs in the hospitality, retail and beauty sectors. This scheme builds on the success of the Increased Cost of Business Scheme (ICOB) scheme which has paid €244 million to 75,000 businesses right across the country.

The scheme opened for registrations on 24 October and to date 75% of eligible businesses have registered for the grant.

A business in the hospitality, retail and beauty sector must have received the second ICOB payment and continue to meet the ICOB criteria in order to be eligible for €4,000 Power Up grant.

The local authorities are administering the scheme on behalf of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. ■

“It has a budget of €170 million and is aimed at SMEs in the hospitality, retail and beauty sectors.”

Outstanding forecourts are celebrated at the Inver Retail Awards 2024

The Inver Retail Awards 2024 selected 12 deserving winners from over 118 Inver service stations around Ireland, with 37 nominated as finalists

This year’s Inver Retail Conference took place at the Europe Hotel in Killarney, Co Kerry Inver Energy, a trusted supplier of quality fuels in Ireland for over 40 years, brought together forecourt operators from across the country to discuss the current national landscape and the future trajectory of retail fuels, celebrate their continued success and strengthen the bonds within the network.

Commenting, John O’Leary, Managing Director, said: “It is important to meet our independent dealers in person regularly to discuss areas of mutual interest and Inver’s role in supporting our dealers through the energy transition. They are an integral part of Inver’s success, and this event is also about recognising their excellent work and celebrating their achievements.”

Mohammed Raffi from Gleeson’s Inver Hurlers

the

the Year

Michael Gleeson, Orla Gleeson, Catriona Clancy, Andzelika Kwiatkowska, Aadhil Mohammed Raffi and Shane Gleeson, Gleeson’s Group; Ben Lenihan, Inver Retail Director

The Inver Retail Awards 2024 selected 12 deserving winners from over 118 Inver service stations around Ireland, with 37 nominated as finalists. The selection process was very challenging as all Inver forecourts demonstrate very high standards. Awards and winners include:

• Excellence in Customer Service: O’Flaherty’s Inver Dingle

• Excellence in Sustainability: Foley’s Inver Tralee

• Excellence in Safety: Inver Fermoy

• Heart of the Community: Ely’s Inver Urlingford

• Store of the Year (Company-owned): Inver Castlecomer Road

Forecourts of the Year

This year’s Forecourt of the Year awards highlighted the top businesses within the Inver network. Divided into categories based on size, these awards recognised high-quality standards and well-maintained facilities.

• Forecourt of the Year – category Small: Moynihan’s Inver Adare

• Forecourt of the Year – category Medium: Ryan’s Inver Newport

• Forecourt of the Year – category Large: O’Brien’s Inver Bishopstown

In a close contest among these winners, O’Brien’s Inver Bishopstown received the prestigious Overall Forecourt of the Year for its modern facilities and appealing offerings catering to consumer needs.

People Awards

The Inver Retail Awards 2024 also acknowledged the contributions of employees across the network.

• Staff Member of the Year: Aadhil Mohammed Raffi from Gleeson’s Inver Hurlers Cross for his outstanding dedication to customer service and positive attitude

• Manager of the Year: Siobhan Willis from Behan’s Inver Castledermot, recognised for her 18 years of leadership, dedication to customer care and support of her team.

• Lifetime Achievement Award: Sean Mulrooney, a well-known retail veteran with four Inver sites, received a standing ovation from peers for his role and achievements in the fuel industry ■

O’Brien’s Inver Bishopstown won two awards: Forecourt of the Year – Large category and Overall Forecourt of the Year. (L-R) John O’Leary, Inver Managing Director; Michelle O’Brien and Anthony O’Brien, Inver O’Brien’s Bishopstown; Adam Traeger, CEO of Greenergy

Sean Mulrooney was presented with the Lifetime Achievement award. (L-R) Ben Lenihan, Inver Retail Director; Shane Mulrooney, Sean Mulrooney, Rita Mulrooney, Paula Murray and Eoin Mulrooney, Mulrooney’s Group

Aadhil

Cross won

Staff Member of

award. (L-R)

Inver Retail Awards 2024

INVER RETAIL EXCELLENCE AWARDS FINALISTS

EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE

EXCELLENCE IN SUSTAINABILITY

EXCELLENCE IN SAFETY

HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

Down's Inver Crossbarry, Co. Cork

Ely's Inver Thurles, Co. Tipperary

Inver Fermoy, Co. Cork

Ryan's Inver Ballyroan, Co. Laois

Inver Adams of Glin, Co. Limerick

Sharkey's Inver Tuam, Co. Galway

Lynch's Inver Freshford, Co. Kilkenny

O'Hare's Inver Johnstown, Co. Kilkenny

O'Donoghue's Inver Barraduff, Co. Kerry

Mulrooney's Inver Roscrea, Co. Tipperary

Inver Ennis Road, Co. Limerick

Sharkey's Inver Tuam, Co. Galway

Dempsey's Inver Portarlington, Co. Laois

Cooney's Inver Coachford, Co. Cork

STORE OF THE YEAR Inver Old Cork Road, Co. Limerick

BEST FORECOURTS SMALL

BEST FORECOURTS MEDIUM

HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

MANAGERS NOMINATED

STAFF MEMBERS NOMINATED

Inver Bansha Road, Co. Tipperary

Inver Adams of Glin, Co. Limerick

Ely's Inver Thurles, Co. Tipperary

Cooney's Inver Coachford, Co. Cork

Ryan's Inver Askeaton, Co. Limerick

Gleeson's Inver Hurlers Cross, Co. Limerick

Foley's Inver Tralee, Co. Kerry

O'Flaherty's Inver Dingle, Co. Kerry

Dempsey's Inver Portarlington, Co. Laois

Gleeson's Inver Punches Cross, Co. Limerick

Inver Fermoy, Co. Cork

Kelliher's Inver Tralee, Co. Kerry

Inver Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan

Agnieszka Maslanka, Inver Clane, Co. Kildare

Colin Manning, O’Brien’s Inver Bishopstown, Co. Cork

Nicola Daly, Broderick’s Inver Shanagarry, Co, Cork

John Hourigan, Gleeson’s Inver Hurlers Cross, Co. Limerick

Dagmar Kolesarova, Kelliher’s Inver Tralee, Co. Kerry

Gaven O’Connor, Inver Adams of Glin, Co. Limerick

Tanya Punnakal, Inver Clane, Co. Kildare

Shinead Murphy, O’Brien’s Inver Bishopstown, Co. Cork

Natalia Zaniewska, Behan’s Inver Castledermot, Co. Kildare

Moynihan’s Inver Adare won Forecourt of the Year – Small category. (L-R) Barry Coll, Inver Area Sales Manager; Ben Lenihan, Inver Retail Director; Daniel Moynihan, Inver Adare

Ely’s Inver Urlingford won the Heart of the Community award. (L-R) John O’Leary, Inver Managing Director; Regina Ely and Eileen Ely, Inver Ely’s; Adam Traeger, CEO of Greenergy

Inver Castlecomer Road won the Store of the Year award. (L-R) John O’Leary, Inver Managing Director; Graham Kelly, Inver Castlecomer Road Forecourt Manager; Adam Traeger CEO of Greenenergy

Ryan’s Inver Newport won the Forecourt of the Year – Medium category. (L-R) Ben Lenihan, Inver Retail Director; Tom Ryan and Daniel Hogan, Inver Newport; Barry Coll, Inver Area Sales Manager

Siobhan Willis of Behan’s Inver Castledermot won the Manager of the Year award. (L-R) Siobhan Willis, Inver Castledermot; Ben Lenihan, Inver Retail Director; Peter Behan, Inver Castledermot

Gala Retail marks 25 years of excellence in convenience retailing

Jacqui Hurley

2024 has been a memorable year for Gala Retail, a leading name in the Irish convenience sector, as the group continued to celebrate its 25th anniversary A year packed with growth, store revamps, and shopper giveaways, Gala Retail’s milestone culminated in September with the Gala Retail Excellence Awards. The awards event took place at Lawlor’s of Naas in County Kildare and was an opportunity for the group to reflect on its continued success in community retailing, bringing together Gala retailers from across the country for a night of recognition and celebration.

A look back at the growth and milestones of the Group since it was founded in 1998, highlighted how Gala Retail’s focus on ‘local’ and ‘community’ values, combined with ongoing innovation continues to deliver success for the Group and its 200+ retailers throughout Ireland. Commenting on Gala’s 25th year Gary Desmond, CEO of Gala Retail, comments:

“It is incredible to be celebrating the successes of the Gala Group in its 25th year in business. Gala was created by a Group of Irish wholesalers, who collectively had the vision to

launch an Irish convenience group that put ‘community retailing’ front and centre for shoppers. To look back at the Group’s achievements over the years reinforces the success that this vision has cultivated, and how the Group has grown in an extremely competitive sector

“25 years on and our ‘local’ and ‘community’ values are still central for the Gala Group today. Our ‘Gala Home or Away’ marketing campaign for our 25th year has already thanked thousands of shoppers for their custom with holidays and consumer incentives, and we are soon to launch our ‘Gala Gifts For All’ activation, which will deliver winners for every Gala store.”

Rewarding Excellence

Hosted by sports broadcaster and chat show host Jacqui Hurley, the 2024 Gala Excellence Awards celebrated Gala stores from all corners of Ireland, recognising those that excel in quality in retailing throughout the Gala Group

“This year, we saw more retailers than ever before being awarded a Gala Retail

Excellence Award,” comments Gary Desmond following the awards. “It’s a true testament to the dedication and commitment that our retailers bring to their communities. As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, it’s an especially poignant moment to recognise the outstanding efforts of our Gala stores across the country, who have gone above and beyond in delivering quality and service to their customers.”

Bringing its 25th-anniversary celebrations to a close, a special Gala event, celebrated in style on the Cote d’Azur brought together Gala Retailers, Wholesalers and Suppliers. The event was compered by comedian, Barry Murphy with Irish rugby legend, Ronan O’Gara as the guest of honour During the celebration, Gala Retail recognised its category award winners, honouring achievements from customer service to community initiatives.

Among the standout winners were Nicholson’s Gala in Keel, Achill, which was named Brand Champion, and Tayto Snacks, which took home the coveted title of Supplier

Irish rugby legend, Ronan O’Gara

of the Year These awards reflect the importance Gala places on both local partnerships and national expertise, ensuring that the Gala brand continues to deliver exceptional value to its customers.

The awards also serve as a reminder of Gala Retail’s commitment to constant improvement, with winners selected through a comprehensive and independent assessment process. Stores deemed ‘outstanding’ were celebrated for their ability to exceed customer expectations and uphold the highest standards in convenience retail. ■

Taking home the top awards were;

Gala Fresh Food Award sponsored by Tirlán: Mulrooney’s Gala, Roscrea, Co Tipperary

Gala Bakers Corner Award sponsored O’Brien Ingredients: Bracken’s Gala, Portlaoise

Gala Chilled Award sponsored by Arytza: Scollan’s Gala, Drumshanbo, Co Leitrim

Gala Customer Service Award sponsored by Britvic: O’Shea’s Gala, Blennerville, Co Kerry

Gala Distill Off Licence Award sponsored by Comans: Hanlon’s Gala, Longford

Gala Social Media Award sponsored by Tayto Snacks: Kane’s Gala, Carlow

Gala Marketing Award sponsored by JTI Ireland: Hennessey’s Gala, Kilmeaden, Co Waterford

Coffee Junction Award sponsored by Matthew Algie: McGuire’s Gala, Rooskey, Co Leitrim

Community Initiative Award sponsored by BAT Ireland: Camier’s Gala, Ballydehob, Co Cork

Special Merit award sponsored by Coca-Cola Hellenic: NHG Group, Limerick, Cork, Clare

Brand Champion Award sponsored by Mondelez: Nicholson’s Gala, Keel, Achill, Co Mayo

Supplier of the Year

Was awarded to Tayto Snacks who celebrated 70 years in business in 2024

Comedian Barry Murphy

Kevin Donnelly from Britvic (award sponsor) pictured with Gala Customer Service Award Winner Kieran O’Shea from O’Shea’s Gala, Blennerville and Tony Cluskey from Gala Retail

Gala Bakers Corner Award Winner, Maeve and Kevin Bracken from Bracken’s Gala, Portlaoise pictured with Peter Savage from O’Brien Ingredients (award sponsor) and Audrey Kelly from Gala Retail

The Special Merit Award was presented to NHG Group with Gala Stores in Limerick, Cork, Clare and Tipperary. Pictured L-R are Siobhán Grimes, Gala Retail; Eoin O’Sullivan, M&P O’Sullivan Wholesale; Darragh Neill, NHG Group and Conor Brennan from Coca-Cola Hellenic (award sponsor)

Supplier of the Year Tayto Snacks. CEO of Gala Retail, Gary Desmond, awarded the accolade to John O’Connor, managing director of Tayto Snacks

Gary Desmond, CEO of Gala Retail pictured with Brand Champion Award Winner, Sandra Nicholson from Nicholson’s Gala, Keel, Achill and Tony Costigan from Mondelez (award sponsor)

Revamped Kilcolgan Centra: Heartbeat of the community

Centra in Kilcolgan underwent a significant revamp in 2018. Store owner Mike Kerrigan talks to Donna Ahern about how the store prides itself on enhancing the overall convenience grocery shopping experience for customers

“As a result of last year’s renovation efforts, the Kilcolgan location has seen a noticeable increase in foot traffic and customer satisfaction, further solidifying its role as a vital part of the community.”

Kilcolgan is a small village in Co Galway, Ireland, located 10 miles from the center of Galway City, offering views of the rugged seashore along the west coast of Ireland.

Kilcolgan’s appeal lies in its tranquility, local culture, and proximity to more prominent Galway landmarks. Visitors to the area can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and exploring nearby historical sites.

At the heart of the village lies Kilcolgan Centra which is situated on the crossroads, which converges a number of villages.

Most notably, Kinvara which is about seven kilometres away and Clarinbridge which is two kilometres, both towns are associated with the scenic beauty and rural charm characteristic of the region which features lush landscapes, traditional Irish countryside, and a sense of community typical of rural Galway

Introducing Kilcolgan Centra

Kilcolgan Centra was established in March 2004 by two close friends, Mike Kerrigan and Billy Shearer. The duo also operated a hardware store across the road from the Centra location, as well as an additional shop in Galway city

However, as the recession began to impact the

construction industry in 2007, they made the difficult decision to close the hardware store and divide their retail operations between them Shearer chose to continue his career in the retail sector, while Kerrigan focused on developing the Centra store.

Today, Kilcolgan Centra is solely owned and managed by Kerrigan, who recently expanded the business by relocating to a larger unit next to the original store. The new location spans 3,650 square feet, compared to the previous 1,200 square feet, allowing for a more extensive product range and an enhanced shopping experience for customers.

Brand transition

In September 2018, the store transitioned to the Centra brand, which proved to be a clever business move for Kerrigan. He told ShelfLife that after the rebranding, the store experienced an immediate weekly growth of approximately 10% year-on-year.

“Musgrave offers support in every way. Our sales and margin growth since changing over proves that” he says

In September 2018, the store transitioned to the Centra brand, marking a significant strategic shift in its operations. This move proved to be a clever business decision for Kerrigan, who has a keen eye for market trends and customer preferences. In an

Mike Kerrigan, Store Owner, Centra Kilcolgan

Local meeting point: Mike Kerrigan and a customer at the Frank and Honest coffee machine

interview with ShelfLife, he shared insights about the impact of the rebranding

Kerrigan attributed this success to several factors, including the brand’s strong recognition and reputation in the market, which resonated well with existing customers while also attracting new ones The Centra brand, known for its convenience and focus on good value, quality products, aligned perfectly with the store's goals of enhancing the shopping experience and expanding its customer base.

Additionally, the rebranding effort included improvements in store layout, product range, and promotional strategies, all aimed at creating a more inviting atmosphere for shoppers. As a result, the store not only saw an increase in foot traffic but also in customer loyalty, which has been crucial for sustaining growth in a competitive retail landscape

Kerrigan's foresight and willingness to adapt to changing market conditions have positioned the store for ongoing success in the years to come, demonstrating the importance of innovation and responsiveness in retail management

Recent revamp

Last year, Centra in Kilcolgan underwent a significant and extensive revamp aimed at enhancing the overall shopping experience for customers, with a major focus on fresh.

This comprehensive renovation included updates to the store’s layout, modernising its interior design, and improving the product range to better meet the needs of the local community.

The revamp also featured the introduction of new signage and branding elements that aligned with Centra’s commitment to good value, quality and excellent customer service.

According to Kerrigan:“In July of 2023 we began our revamp (all night works) which got into full swing in mid-September. In October, we added 650 sq ft onto the shop floor which would incorporate our full off licence in time (we only had wine at that stage)

“We completed a full store layout change, rewire, replumb, all new refrigeration including a Moo’d ice cream counter, new staff quarters and range implementation which finished in mid-November ”

Sales surge

Kerrigan and his team have created an exceptional in-store shopping experience with their impressive revamp The atmosphere is fantastic, driven by the

friendly and dedicated approach of the Centra Kilcolgan staff Customers are always warmly welcomed, making each visit feel special. Centra Kilcolgan has undergone a remarkable transformation, with a strong emphasis on fresh products. The first aisle is especially inviting, showcasing the bakery, deli, and fresh meat sections with outstanding presentation and quality. Notable performance highlights include an impressive 83% yearto-date sales increase in the fresh bakery section, while the off-license achieved a remarkable 100% surge in sales

The Moo’d ice cream counter, has proven to be a “resounding success”. The store has seen an impressive year-to-date growth of 59% in impulse ice cream sales

Supporting local producers

These improvements not only created a more inviting atmosphere but also allowed Centra to showcase a wider range of fresh produce, locally sourced products, and popular convenience items.

One such local supplier is Paddy Cunnisse, a local potato farmer, whose motto according to Kerrigan is, “You don’t have to put salt on my potatoes as the seed does it for you. ”

Local community

As a result of last year’s renovation efforts, the Kilcolgan location has seen a noticeable increase in foot traffic and customer satisfaction, further solidifying its role as a vital part of the community

The store supports a new of local initiatives such as the Colga Junior B adults’ team

Recently, the staff organised a Lip Sync battle for the club, free of charge, which raised a profit of €83,000 for the club's new astro pitch.

“Had the club hired an events company, the event would have cost approximately €15,000. This was their third local event since 2018, bringing the total funds raised to approximately €195,000.

“I serve/served on many committees from school management to Community Development to being the chair of the Maree Musical and Galway Community Panto society,” he adds

Team players

Centra Kilcolgan currently have 33 staff members on its books, along with an additional four working in the butchers. Among the team, 10 are full-time employees. The remainder of the staff consists of students and flexible part-time workers. Notably, Kerrigan maintains a very small staff turnover, reflecting his commitment to creating a stable and supportive work environment.

“I am a floor retailer and work side by side with the crew. I think they see me more as a member of the crew rather than the owner. I hope!” he laughs.

“The first thing they are told before they get near a till is to smile and treat every customer as they would like their granny to be treated. They carry out the groceries for customers without being asked!

I love it!” ■

Team players: Centra Kilcolgan staff

Centra Kilcolgan, Off Licence

Centra Kilcolgan, Fresh Fruit & Veg

Centra Kilcolgan, Butcher Counter

Shoplifting, banning orders and begging prohibited

The Dublin City Task Force Report was published last month, which outlines a core aim to rejuvenate Dublin City Centre. Former Garda inspector Tony Gallagher discusses the report and the rising concern of begging to retailers

The ShelfLife‘Stop Crime Against Retailers’(SCAR) conference was held on the 23 of October 2024 in Fallon and Byrne A survey result in advance of the conference indicated that 100% of retailers had experienced criminal activity at their businesses, a shocking and stark reality.

The National Statistics Office UK reveals that retail crime of shoplifting recorded by police in England and Wales has hit its highest level in twenty years. The Home Secretary has stated that the Crime & Policing Bill UK will bring in stronger powers to deal with the epidemic, one of such powers being considered is the banning of repeat offenders from town centers.

For example, I was contacted by a Dublin City Center retail manager recently He advised me that Mr X is back Mr X is a very prolific shoplifter in the City Centre He had been released from prison after receiving a sentence for multiple shoplifting incidents. I have just received news that this prolific offender has returned to the same store, threatened staff and stole a large quantity of alcohol If a banning order was in place when he was convicted, he could now be arrested if he returned to the area I would suggest

that we need this legislation to deal with prolific shoplifters.

It is evident that most retailers know their prolific shoplifters. The National Garda“Operation Táirge” initiative whose primary aim is reducing organised retail crime could now be implemented as a local Garda initiative in every Garda District, for example, there is a core group of shoplifters operating on both sides of the Liffey in Dublin City, these offenders should be profiled and targeted, if there is engagement, the retailers in most instances will be able to identify and / or name the offenders to the Gardai. In Dublin suburbs and indeed throughout the country it is the same, offenders are known to the stores, the same profile building needs to happen, the focus must be on the most prolific offenders.

Begging

Retailers want to make it abundantly clear that they object to begging outside their premises

A retail chain will be displaying a ‘Begging Prohibited Notice’at their shop entrances, the retailers will be calling on the Gardaí to enforce the legislation. The notice will be on a

pilot trial in key areas of Dublin where there is a proliferation of begging, all retailers should take this approach.

Begging is a scourge and a source of significant concern to retailers; it contributes to a negative perception of safety. There is an undercurrent to begging outside businesses that the normal shopper may not see, it is the retailers experience that most beggars who beg outside their premises also shoplift, they threaten shop staff, and their presence deters shoppers from entering stores In addition, there are hygiene issue as beggars impose themselves at the hot drink’s counters, take cardboard cups, break open eco briquette packs at service stations to make a seat and these packs of briquettes then must be discarded as they are not in a saleable condition. They keep returning to businesses because people give them money, next time think of the retail staff who must endure their behaviour

Dublin City Task Force Report

The Dublin City Task Force Report was published last month, a core aim is to rejuvenate Dublin City Centre. The report has ten‘Big moves’that they recommend should be addressed.

Gallagher views on the following two suggestions from the The Dublin City Task Force Report

• ‘Develop and enact new bye laws to regulate on street charitable services’Services are dispensed at the GPO O’Connell St, Chatham St (just off Grafton St) and College Green. The service is well intentioned, but the service should be brought to an indoor location away from the city centre, the lines of people has been increasing and many

of them remain in the city and beg in the immediate locality of the service, this adds to an apprehension amongst the public

• ‘Ensure emergency accommodation and processing facilities are more equitably spread across Greater Dublin’

Currently there is an over intensification of hostels in and around Dublin City Centre, if there is no change in this policy the entire Dublin Task Force Report will fail There are many inhabitants of the hostels who have addiction issues, so the risk profile is already in the city

On Friday the 1 of November I was in the city centre when I walked by two side by side hostels close to the Garden of Remembrance, several addicts were standing outside engaged in drug activity. The intensification of city centre hostels has placed a challenging burden on the Gardai who are already very resource stretched.

Significant issue

Begging is not mentioned in the report, but it is a significant issue, it is not right that beggars encroach on the areas where people are enjoying al-fresco dining or are enjoying their drinks.Diners should feel comfortable in the city

It is noted at point eight in the report“offer Dubliners compelling reasons to visit the city centre ” – it can also be stated offer anyone including tourists a compelling reason to visit the city.

The Task Force Report is a great start, now make it an absolute priority to establish a separate team to drive the implementation of the Task Force Report and make Dublin an attractive city ■

Retail crime is out of control

ShelfLifehosted a pivotal conference ‘Stop Crime Against Retailers’ (SCAR) at Fallon & Byrne in Dublin on 23 October. Trade professionals and retailers gathered to express their frustrations and collectively demand urgent government action in response to the alarming rise in crime threatening retailers across the nation. Following the event Sorcha Corcoran spoke to some of the retailers that were in attendance

Research conducted by ShelfLife has highlighted that crime against retailers has escalated to reach epidemic proportions nationwide The problem has gone beyond having to take the hit of losses due to theft. Shop owners and their staff are being exposed to relentless threats, intimidation and, in many cases, violence. This is now a wider societal issue that is having a profound impact on livelihoods and public safety

All of the 117 respondents to the survey –which come from both urban and rural areas across the country – have experienced some form of criminal activity The majority (89%) report that these crimes have become more dangerous in the past year Robbery with violence was cited by 30% of respondents, while over half (56.4%) have experienced >>

A week from hell

Will Hanley, a seasoned retail professional with 36 years of experience, has owned SuperValu Rowlagh in Clondalkin for nearly 20 years and recently acquired SuperValu Granard in Co Longford. Originally from a farm in Co Limerick, he now lives in Celbridge with his wife and two sons.

“I keep an open line of communication with my staff around the illegal sale of tobacco products,” Hanley states. Whenever his staff shares knowledge of illicit sales, he reports it to the relevant authorities. Hanley and his staff have witnessed tobacco sold from barbershops, suitcases at bus stops, carrier bags in front of his store, and even through house-to-house cold calls.

Hanley’s recent week began with a 2:30 a.m. wake-up call informing him that his Dublin store had been broken into. Upon arriving, he found the Gardai preserving the scene, preventing him from entering. The front shutter and window had been removed, with cigarette packets strewn across the pavement. Once forensics had finished, Hanley entered to find the store in disarray, with cigarette fixtures dismantled and emptied. The rest of the day was spent reopening the store, organising tradespeople to secure it, downloading CCTV footage, and consoling distressed staff

The next morning, Hanley was in Children’s Court as a witness in a case

involving a juvenile who had vandalised the same store’s external cameras. To his disbelief the same youth returned to the store the following day, helping himself to coffee while delivering severe verbal abuse and threats. This intimidation continued for three more days, creating a climate of fear among the staff, many too intimidated to confront him.

To add to the ordeal, a trolley was also pushed into SuperValu Granard in the same week.

“None of this is aligned with the responsibilities I expected when running a business,” Hanley reflects.

“I was subjected to ten minutes of the worst type of verbal abuse and received all sorts of threats.”

Pictured: (L-R) Chief superintendent Padraic Jones of An Garda Síochána; John McDonald, publisher of ShelfLife; Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and Equality and at the Department of Social Protection, Emer Higgins and Vincent Jennings, CEO of CSNA

STOP CRIME AGAINST RETAILERS

(L-R) Bryan Dobson, broadcaster and journalist; Helen Murphy, managing director, JDM Insurance; Orla Cafferty, CEO, Datascan; Sara Orme, vice president, CSNA and Kevin O’Brien, retailer, CarryOut

disruption by groups or gangs.

Around two-thirds of respondents are convenience stores, followed by forecourt retailers (33.3%), off-liences (28.2%) and supermarkets (21.4%). The yearly stock value lost per individual store averages at several thousand euro with some retailers reporting annual losses as high as €30,000 per store.

Shoplifting continues to be the most common form of crime, experienced by 95.7% of those surveyed. While it has long been a feature of retail, the survey shows that its frequency has dramatically increased to become a daily occurrence for many. Employee theft has also become a growing problem, cited by 60% of respondents.

While it’s not clear exactly why crime against retailers has intensified, the consensus is that COVID-19 was a likely trigger as the sector was perceived as the only one making money during lockdowns while also imposing strict restrictions on customers. A sense of resentment and entitlement to steal emerged among a minority of the general public.

Whatever the reasons behind it, the major problem now, as the survey highlights, is the feeling that crime against retailers is like a runaway train and there’s no way to stop it. Retailers feel powerless to tackle criminals head-on for fear of litigation.

Over three quarters (76%) of respondents now have CCTV, which is costing them anything from €1,000 to €25,000 a year to

STOP CRIME AGAINST RETAILERS

maintain and upgrade Reviewing footage and sending files to the Gardaí has become hugely time-consuming. But investing in extra security measures within premises isn’t enough and the general consensus is that retailers desperately need more protection.

While retailers generally talk about a good relationship with the Gardai, 67% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with garda response times to retail crimes with a significant 88% reporting a lack of a visible garda presence in their area.

More gardai patrolling the streets is only part of the answer, however The deeper issue lies in the fact that, even when the Gardaí are involved and make arrests, perpetrators don’t feel any real consequences as convictions only happen after numerous offences – and even then sentences are suspended or short, so repeat offenders just keep on offending. Retailers feel that the balance of the law in relation to shoplifting and right of admission is with the perpetrators, not the victims.

Exacerbating the problem is the fact that an increasing proportion of perpetrators are under the age of 16. These young people see no deterrent and are taking advantage of the fact that there will be little or no repercussions if they’re caught.

It is clear from the Shelflife research that urgent action is needed in the form of government policies, increased garda numbers and reform of the judicial system if this

Enough is enough – time for radical change

Jim Kenny, owner of Centra in Dublin suburb Blackrock has become so exasperated with shoplifting and aggression in his shop that he is going to send an email to all the powers that be he can think of to bring about change

The recipients will include President of Ireland Michael D Higgins, Minister for Justice Helen McEntee, the Oireachtas Committee on Justice and Equality, Garda commissioner Drew Harris, the Garda Representative Association, senators Barry Ward and Victor Boyhan and the Blackrock Business Association, of which Kenny is a member

“A small minority in society is causing the issue, which has spread from city centres to villages and suburbs and is now countrywide The biggest part of my email relates to my belief that it stems from the lack of gardai on the streets. You can’t beat a visible uniformed presence; it is definitely

“Overall, the justice system needs to be more proactive rather than reactive and think more about prevention.”

a deterrent,” says Kenny.

“In addition to upping garda numbers, the laws need to be changed, which might mean a change in the Constitution of Ireland, but so be it if that’s the case The judiciary also needs to be improved in terms of implementation of the law by judges. Overall, the justice system needs to be more proactive rather than reactive and think more about prevention.

“Another gripe of mine is that the 16-yearold threshold for naming and bringing offenders to court needs to come down to 10 years of age I’ve had children this age spitting on me and last summer a 14-year-old hit me across the head. Kids have egged the shop and my son’s house as well and we’ve had to deal with gangs of youths coming from other areas on bikes. As shop owners, we are entitled to be protected and are asking and pleading for it.”

Kenny experienced a particular problem with shoplifting recently while new apartments were being built nearby. “Builders in their twenties and into their forties were coming in and stealing willy-nilly as it suited them in a plethora of different ways They were putting bottles into their long pockets, removing labels from items bought in the deli, getting two cups of coffee and only paying for one,” he says

“Theft has always been there, but nothing like it is now. It’s hard to quantify how much we lose from it, but it runs into thousands of

untenable situation is to be addressed. The experiences below of retailers who took part in the survey provide a snapshot of how unbearable the situation has become for the sector

euro a year and we spend two hours a day looking back at CCTV footage

“We are a family that has been in retail for more than 50 years, both in the City Centre and suburbs, and we’re very involved in doing our bit for the local community One thing I’ve always loved about running a shop is meeting people and chatting with them. Good customers appreciate that and it’s frustrating that a minority can wreck it.”

Jim Kenny, owner, Centra Blackrock

STOP CRIME AGAINST RETAILERS

Crime at an all-time high

Martin McSorley owns nine service station stores, with five in Co Wexford and one in each of the counties of Carlow, Laois, Longford and Sligo In his 20-year experience of running Drive Service Stations, crime is the worst it has ever been.

“There are two types of problem. One is abuse and intimidation and the second is theft, which has quadrupled in the past four years. I’m losing a total of €400,000 to €500,000 a year across the nine stores because of it. Two or three of the businesses are borderline closing; it’s so hard to be profitable,” he says

“COVID-19 was a tipping point. The attitude after this was that retailers were making a fortune and ripping people off Theft wasn’t just down to customers. Staff started to rob us more, letting their families away with paying for less than what was in their baskets at the checkout and putting in packets of cigarettes. We now have to stock-take cigarettes and alcohol every week, which is a huge amount of extra work.

“The hardest part for me is keeping staff as people don’t want to work in an environment where they fear being threatened. I have to put a lot of time and effort into training people to get them to the best customer-service level; I estimate it costs me about €600 before someone is ready to work one hour in a store.”

The situation at the Portlaoise store was so severe that it was featured in the local paper “We were being attacked by groups of teenagers robbing us blind, vandalising furniture and smashing up the toilets. We had to close the seating area at 7pm and put staff on the door and locks on the toilets to restrict customer flow,” McSorley explains.

“The problem is ongoing in Portlaoise; the difference is the age of offenders has changed. Now there are children aged 10 years and upwards stealing from us. Sometimes parents will pay €10 for petrol while their children fill their pockets in the shop

“Because Portlaoise is the biggest problem, I’ve trialled all kinds of new security technologies there and extended what has worked to the other stores. IT costs have been around €20,000 this year I recently had to send CCTV footage from Portlaoise four times in one week to the Gardai.

“The Gardai want to help but they are so under-resourced. There are no deterrents and parents take no responsibility There is a sense of powerlessness. The General Data Protection Regulation is stopping retailers from sharing information and working together to name and shame people, even when we have huge amounts of evidence.”

“The hardest part for me is keeping staff, as people don’t want to work in an environment where they fear being threatened.”

5 Urgent Asks from the CSNA

1 Stronger legal protections for retailers, including defamation law amendments.

2

3

4

The introduction of ASBOs and night courts to handle retail crime swiftly and effectively.

Direct access to local Garda stations for faster, rather than relying on 999 for a more effective crime responses.

Enforced standards for Garda response times to support retailers in a timely manner.

5 A streamlined process for the quick return of stolen goods to help businesses recover their losses

ShelfLife Research Key Findings

100% of retailers

Of forecourts which participated in the research reported fuel thefts by drive-offs

89% of retailers

Report that these crimes have become more dangerous in the last year, highlighting a growing concern for both safety and security

67% of retailers

Expressed dissatisfaction with Garda response times to retail crimes, often leaving businesses vulnerable for extended periods.

76% of retailers

Affected by crime have experienced a loss in stock value, with 36% losing more than ¤10,000 in the past year

88% of retailers

Report that there is no Garda presence in their area, further embolding criminal activity

94% of retailers

Have been impacted by shoplifting, and over 50% of stores have experienced employee theft

56% of retailers

Have encountered issues with gangs and groups, contributing to a hostile and unsafe environment for both staff and customers. ■

Always Nearby

Thomas Kurain, owner of Nearby on North Circular Road, talks with Shauna Bernard about the positive impact his store is making in Phibsborough—from renovation efforts to strengthening community connections

Nearby North Circular Road commenced operations on 17 July 2024, at 407 North Circular Road, Phibsborough, Dublin

The store occupies a 650-square-foot space. Despite its modest size, the store is strategically designed to offer a comprehensive range of products, ensuring that the local community’s diverse needs are met efficiently.

Renovations

The store underwent significant renovations before opening its doors.

Thomas Kurain, the store owner, noted that the location was previously a store that had closed, requiring a complete overhaul.

“To transform it into a beautiful and convenient store, we undertook a complete renovation,” he explains.

The renovations included redesigning the layout, installing new shelving and fixtures, upgrading the lighting and flooring, and incorporating modern electronic components.

The total investment in these renovations was approximately €85,000.

The investment along with our supportive staff has allowed us to create a welcoming and efficient shopping enviornment for our customers with minimal disruption, notes Kurain Sales performance

Since its opening, Nearby North Circular Road has seen promising sales growth across several categories. Kurain shared that“sales have been improving steadily,”

attributing much of this success to word-of-mouth recommendations from satisfied customers.

The store has become a go-to destination for daily essentials, with grocery sales steadily increasing due to a focus on variety and affordability.

Frozen food sales have also been on the rise, with customers appreciating the convenience of these products.

Kurain notes,“Customers are appreciating the convenience of these products, and this section is gaining more attention as new customers come in.”

Notably, the crisps category has emerged as a crowd favourite, boasting a wide variety of snack options.

Soft drinks, too, are a top seller, as shoppers frequently pick them up for home use or gatherings Although stationery items initially struggled to gain traction, they have recently started to sell better.

“Most of the products in the store come from S&W Wholesale, our wholesale partner with Nearby that helps ensure the store remains well-stocked,” states Kurain.

A committed team

Currently, Nearby North Circular Road employs three full-time workers and one part-time employee.

Kurain emphasised the importance of teamwork, stating that“Our dedicated team works hard to ensure that our store runs smoothly.”

The relationship between staff members is characterised by open communication and collaboration, leading to a positive work environment.

Regular team meetings allow for the discussion of any concerns and the sharing of feedback, creating a supportive atmosphere.

“Our team spirit and mutual respect are key to maintaining high morale and ensuring excellent customer service,” adds Kurain.

Lavazza coffee

Thomas Kurain, owner, Nearby North Circular Road

“The renovations included redesigning the layout, installing new shelving and fixtures, upgrading the lighting and flooring, and incorporating modern electronic components.”

Community connections

Nearby North Circular Road is deeply rooted in the local community. Its proximity to the Garda station makes it a convenient stop for officers seeking refreshments.

Furthermore, its location opposite Mater Hospital allows the store to cater to patients and staff, ensuring they have easy access to essential items.

Kurain explains,“We regularly ask the residents about their needs and take orders to ensure we stock the products they require.”

This close relationship helps the store stay responsive to community needs, making it an integral part of the area which is fitting with the community values of the Nearby brand.

Shopping experience

When asked what makes the store stand out, Kurain pointed to the commitment to customer satisfaction and community engagement.

“We pride ourselves on maintaining a store that is always clean and well-organised,” he said

This attention to detail not only ensures that customers feel comfortable but also enhances their overall shopping experience. The store’s aesthetic

appeal adds to its charm, making it a delightful place to shop.

“The kind and helpful nature of our staff ensures that every customer feels welcomed and well taken care of,” adds Kurain

Brand support

Kurain emphasised the importance of support from the Nearby brand. Namely the marketing team who provide the store with promotional material to help drive the value concept within the store every three weeks through their Bring Home the Value Point of Sale Also, the all-new Retailer Hub where a full suite of promotional material both digital and print is available to download and alter to help maintain operational standards and drive more foot-fall to store.

“This ongoing and evolving support is crucial in helping us maintain high standards and meet the needs of our customers effectively,“ notes Kurain

Navigating costs

In light of the ongoing cost of living crisis, Nearby North Circular Road has made it a priority to offer value to its customers

“We have introduced various discounts and promotions to help our customers save money, ” explains Kurain

However, the store is not without challenges. Rising business costs, particularly energy expenses, have impacted its operations.

“These increased expenses have made it challenging to cover overall costs such as rent, wages, and various bills,” Kurain said, acknowledging the strain this puts on the business.

Kurain also highlighted other challenges faced by the store,“The limited space of our store sometimes makes it challenging to stock a wide variety of products and provide the best shopping experience,” he explains.

Looking ahead

Despite these challenges, Kurain remains optimistic about the future.

“We would like to thank Nearby and S&W Wholesale for their continuous support on the ground.” he states

According to Kurain, their assistance has been invaluable in helping maintain well stocked shelves and a smoothly run store.

Looking ahead, the store has plans to make modifications to enhance the shopping experience further and ensure it remains aligned with modern retail standards.

“We’re excited about the future and look forward to continuing our partnership with Nearby and S&W,” concludes Kurain

Nearby North Circular Road exemplifies the potential of local stores to adapt and thrive in challenging economic conditions. Through dedication to customer service, community engagement, and strategic partnerships, the store is well-positioned to serve Phibsborough residents now and in the future. ■

Thomas Kurain stocking stocking the shelves

Interior of Nearby North Circular Road

How to identify a true retail leader

Did you ever have an unbelievable manager? Someone who inspired you, who got the best out of you, and pushed you to work better, faster, and smarter? Asks Nikki Murran

As Retail Recruiters we regularly speak with excellent managers retail leaders managing teams of two to 200 staff while keeping operations running smoothly 365 days a year But lately, I’ve been asking myself: what separates a good manager from a truly outstanding one? More importantly, how do we identify them when hiring?

Look for leaders, not managers— the “let’s go” approach One of the most significant distinctions is between those who lead and those who merely manage. A leader says,“Let’s go,” while a manager says,“Go.” Leaders led by example, inspire through their own enthusiasm, and are genuinely invested in empowering their team to achieve their best. They use inclusive language like“we” and spend a great deal of their time nurturing and developing others

On the other hand, managers typically rely on their authority to get things done, focusing more on directing others rather than leading them. They may micro-manage, use language that centres around“I,” and often spend time with their team without truly investing in them. When hiring, look for people who inspire others, not those who simply manage tasks.

Look for someone who leaves a trail of promotions

Another telltale sign of an outstanding manager is their ability

to identify, nurture, and develop talent. Great managers are not threatened by the growth of their team members; instead, they empower and encourage them to grow—even if that means outgrowing their current role They take pride in seeing their people succeed and move on to bigger and better things

When interviewing candidates, ask for examples of people they’ve promoted or mentored. Outstanding managers will have plenty of examples to share, as their legacy often involves a trail of individuals they’ve helped advance in their careers.

Ask about their biggest achievement and how they accomplished it

One simple yet revealing question can be:“What’s your biggest achievement, and how did you accomplish it?” Pay close attention to how they frame their answer If they fail to credit their team or at least acknowledge their contributions, that’s a red flag No retailer worth their salt should claim that they single-handedly keep a store running without acknowledging the hard work and dedication of the entire team.

A great manager understands that success is a collective effort, and they’ll be quick to give credit where it’s due. This humility and recognition of their team’s role are

key indicators of a leader who empowers others rather than seeks all the glory for themselves

Ask them directly: “What makes you a great manager?”

This question can be eye-opening. When you ask someone what makes them a great manager, you’re looking for specific responses that reflect an emphasis on open, transparent communication, trust, empowerment, and development.

Body language can also reveal a lot. Great managers light up when they talk about their teams’ successes. They’re excited to share stories of growth, achievement, and the ways their team members have thrived under their guidance. This excitement is a powerful sign of a manager who is genuinely invested in their people.

Positive mental attitude

You’ve probably heard the cliché

that attitude is everything. While it may sound overused, there’s truth in it, especially when it comes to management. Have you ever had an excellent manager who was a glass-half-empty type? Most likely not. The best managers are often optimists, full of positivity and a can-do attitude that they spread throughout their team.

A positive mental attitude is contagious. It can lift a team’s morale, especially in tough times, and it’s something you’ll want to look for in a manager. The energy a manager brings to the workplace has a profound effect on the culture and productivity of the team, so make sure they bring good vibes with them!

Adaptable management style

In today’s dynamic work environment, a one-size-fits-all approach to management no

NIKKI MURRAN Director, Grocery Retail Recruitment, Excel Recruitment

www.excelrecruitment.com

longer works. Different team members respond to different styles of leadership Some may need more hands-on guidance, while others thrive with autonomy A great manager understands this and adapts their style accordingly. However, adaptability doesn’t mean inconsistency. A great manager strikes a balance by remaining flexible in their approach while being consistent in their values and expectations across the board. During interviews, ask candidates for examples of how they’ve adjusted their management style to meet the needs of different individuals on their team.

Borrowed beliefs: The gold standard of leadership

In my opinion, this is the gold standard for managers—if you can find this in a candidate, it’s not just a green flag; it’s a sign that you should move to offer them a role immediately.

We’ve all heard of limiting beliefs—those internal voices that tell people they can’t do something, so they don’t even try. A great manager can help their team members overcome these limiting beliefs. They do this by believing in their people so strongly that those employees“borrow” the manager’s belief in them and start to believe in themselves. This is called “borrowed belief,” and it’s a powerful tool for motivating staff.

When employees feel that their manager has faith in them, they often become capable of much more than they initially thought possible This belief can lead to remarkable growth and achievement within the team It’s incredible to watch how people flourish under the guidance of a manager who genuinely believes in their potential.

Find your leader

Hiring a great manager is about more than just finding someone

who can keep operations running smoothly. It’s about identifying a leader who can inspire, develop, and empower their team By looking for these key traits leadership, talent development, team recognition, positivity, adaptability, and borrowed belief—you can find the type of manager who will not only

manage but truly elevate your team to new heights.

In today’s competitive job market, finding managers with these qualities is no easy feat. But when you do, they will become the driving force behind your team’s success, leaving a lasting legacy of growth, development, and positivity wherever they go ■

Fresh focus

Daybreak Ashbourne has evolved from a neighbourhood store into a high-convenience hub. Owner, Danny Bowe and Musgrave business development manager, Darryl O’Reilly, have created a fresh and welcoming experience that continues to draw locals and newcomers alike, writes

Shauna Bernard

Daybreak Ashbourne, located on the main road into Ashbourne, first opened its doors in 2018.

At 2,000 square feet, the store was designed to be a neighbourhood spot, but it quickly grew into a highconvenience destination.

“It was a struggle at the start to get it going but we got there and we are doing very well now, ” says owner Danny Bowe, who had previously worked with SuperValu.

“I was previously with SuperValu, so it’s a totally different business, completely. It was an education for us

“In the past six months, Daybreak Ashbourne underwent a significant development to improve its layout and offerings”.

“I can’t talk highly enough about my staff, they would do anything for customers.”

“We reconfigured the store, which saw the deli being positioned at the back, making it impactful when you walk in,” says Darryl O’Reilly, business development manager, Musgrave

The redesign also included expanding the food-to-go and iced coffee offerings, refreshing the seating area, and adding a more prominent Lickety Split ice cream station.

Bowe notes that the transformation was driven by adapting to customer demand.

“When we set the store up first, it was set up more as a neighbourhood store. So we found out fairly quickly

that we are a massive high-convenience store, ” he says.

This realisation led to a major store overhaul in early 2023, with a focus on fresh, made-from-scratch products, including the addition of Pressure fried chicken and an expanded deli

“Daybreak Ahsbourne opens from half five in the morning until half nine at night, Monday to Friday, and then from half six to half nine on the weekends,” notes Bowe

Fresh offerings

Since the refit, Daybreak Ashbourne has seen notable growth, with coffee sales up 40% and deli sales climbing by 50-60%.

“Pressure fried chicken is a unique selling point here,” O’Reilly says, explaining that Ashbourne Daybreak was among the first stores to feature this product.

“I would think it’s going very well because it’s a fresh product, and it speaks for itself, as in the quality and the taste of the actual product is second to none.”

The new deli section also features a rotating carvery with turkey, ham, and roast beef

“I think people appreciate fresh products, and that’s what they’re looking for,” Bowe adds

“We do everything from scratch in there now, which is actually peeling our own potatoes and carrots and everything else. It’s all down to the staff we have as well, because they are very good.”

Staff dedication

Much of Daybreak Ashbourne’s success is thanks to its dedicated staff.

Bowe and O’Reilly credit the team’s performance and strong rapport with customers as key factors in creating a welcoming atmosphere

“The staff are very good; they’ll do anything for the customer, ” says Bowe.

“If I’m in the back store and I don’t hear some

Danny Bowe, owner, Daybreak Ashbourne

Newly renovated Munch & Co deli

Daybreak Ashbourne’s ‘Grab, Go & Gobble’ section

giggling and laughing out on the store floor, I want to know what’s wrong because they have to have that good rapport with the customers and have a bit of fun.”

O’Reilly agrees, noting that the team’s dedication extends beyond Bowe’s presence

“Anytime I call in, the staff are always massively friendly. I’ve called a few times and Danny hasn’t been there, and you wouldn’t know that he wasn’t there, because the staff just drive on,” he says

Local involvement

Daybreak Ashbourne sources its products through Musgrave, a partnership that simplifies logistics and ensures a steady supply.

“We buy everything through Musgrave and it’s easier for us,” says Bowe, who places daily orders that arrive the following morning This streamlined approach ensures fresh, quality products while maintaining efficiency.

While most products come from Musgrave, Daybreak Ashbourne also engaged local suppliers during the store’s recent refit

“We did use an Ashbourne supplier called Systematic Security Solutions for the security system We used Anglo Irish Refrigeration, which are also based in Ashbourne, and Ashbourne Upholstery for our seating area,” Bowe says.

Bowe also notes that the store supports the local Donaghmore GAA club in Ashbourne

This involvement with local businesses highlights the store’s dedication to support people in the community when they can

Value for money

With the cost of living crisis impacting households across the region, Daybreak Ashbourne aims to provide value for its customers

O’Reilly highlights Daybreak Ashbourne’s extensive offerings, noting that they take full advantage of Musgrave promotional cycles

The store also runs a“Big Night In” promotion that covers take-home snacking, soft drinks products and their off-licence

O’Reilly points out that Bowe’s creative approach to promotions helps set Daybreak Ashbourne apart.

“Danny is always thinking outside the box. For example, each month he would feature a new wine of the month,” he adds

Musgrave supplies all Daybreak retailers with 13 promotional cycles per year, each accompanied by a new flyer and a POS box filled with matching posters. These materials are packed with special offers and competitive rates, helping stores consistently provide value to their customers.

Future prospects

As with many businesses, Daybreak Ashbourne faces challenges due to rising costs, including higher energy bills, minimum wage increases, and pension autoenrollment requirements.

However, Bowe remains optimistic.“We were lucky enough that we locked in for two years, and we have quite a good rate at the moment,” he says

Musgrave has also provided support by offering retailers energy-saving options like retrofitting fridges, which helps keep costs down.

Looking to the future, Bowe is confident in the store’s potential, particularly with a new housing development nearby

“Ashbourne is exploding at the moment with a housing estate starting across the road from us, with 750 units in it,” he says

“That’s going to be boots on the ground with builders. Ashbourne is just getting bigger and bigger There will be other competition coming along as well, but we feel there’s room for everybody.”

Bowe emphasises the dedication of its staff,“ I can’t talk highly enough about my staff, they would do anything for customers.

As Daybreak Ashbourne continues to grow, Bowe remains committed to offering fresh products, exceptional service, and a welcoming community atmosphere

“From our point of view, Daybreak Ashbourne is going in the right direction,” says Bowe, looking toward continued success in the years to come ■

Daybreak Ashbourne’s off-licence

Down to a fine artisan

Blas na hÉireann 2024 had another impressive year across all categories, with many new producers joining the awards for the first time

The 2024 Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards have revealed this year’s winners, following a three-day celebration of Ireland’s finest food and drink, held from Thursday, October 3 to Saturday, 5 October in Dingle

Rívesci was crowned as Supreme Champion for their Smoked Chilli Oil and Valentia Island Vermouth was announced as Best Artisan Producer

Speaking at the event, Artie Clifford, chairperson, Blas na hÉireann, said: “We are once again delighted to celebrate such deserving winners at Blas na hÉireann 2024 After 17 years of these awards, it’s inspiring to witness the continued innovation and quality in Ireland’s food and drink industry Every year the standard is raised even higher and it’s an honour for myself and the entire Blas team to showcase these exceptional products and the dedicated producers behind them to a

national audience.”

Now in its 17th year, Blas na hÉireann saw another strong year from across all categories along with many new producers entering the awards for the first time this year

During the judging, which took place over June and July, over 3,000 entries were judged. Products from every county in Ireland were entered to win bronze, silver or gold awards in

over 170 food and drink categories, as well as key awards like Supreme Champion and Best Artisan Producer

As the competition intensifies each year, earning the prestigious Blas badge is a significant accomplishment, signifying that the shortlisted finalists and eventual winners represent the pinnacle of excellence in Irish food and drink.

Rívesci was recently crowned Supreme Champion for its Smoked Chilli Oil at this year’s Blas na hÉireann.

A previous finalist and gold medal winner at the Blas na hÉireann awards, Rívesci started as a food truck offering cooked from scratch dishes from its vintage 1976 caravan before lockdown forced the company to pivot its business into full-time condiment makers.

Based in Co Tipperary and founded by Shannon Forrest and Michelin-trained chef Declan Malone, the duo pride themselves on their ‘commitment to sustainability, using locally sourced ingredients to create products’.

Rívesci specialises in small-batch, handcrafted condiments.

Speaking after the announcement, Malone of Rívesci, said: “This recognition means the world to us and is a testament to the hard work, passion, and dedication we pour into all our products.”

Forrest of Rívesci, added: “To be acknowledged among so many talented producers across Ireland is a huge achievement and we are incredibly proud to represent the very best of Irish food and drink.”

Shannon Forrest and Declan Malone

Rívesci crowned Supreme Champion for its Smoked Chilli Oil

SuperValu

Enjoy Five Farms with friends this Christmas

Five Farms Irish Cream Liqueur has won gold for its Cream Liqueur in the 2024 Blás na hEireann Irish Food Awards

Create wholesome memories and rituals this Christmas with Five Farms Irish Cream liqueur

Made with fresh Irish cream from five family-owned farms along the Wild Atlantic Way in West Cork, Five Farms is the first “Farm to Table” Irish Cream Liqueur and prides itself on using fresh and local ingredients to create an indulgent and delicious drink, perfect to enjoy over ice.

Whether you’re hosting Christmas dinner or cozying up by the fire with friends over the festive season, Five Farms, which contains 10% premium Irish whiskey, is the ultimate after dinner treat or gift this season, especially for whiskey lovers or supporters of Irish produce.

Crafted with passion and precision, Five Farms, the superior Irish Cream Liqueur, features an array of comforting flavours such as butterscotch, caramel fondue and vanilla bean jumping from the glass.

This lush palate coats the mouth with flavours of coffee with fresh cream, dulce de leche, coconut, maple, and Belgian waffles. Use Five Farms to create delicious winter cocktails, ideal for elevating your holiday festivities.

Aldi was recognised as Ireland’s Most Awarded Discount Retailer at the 2024 Blas na hÉireann Awards.

Aldi and its team of Irish suppliers and producers enjoyed outstanding success at this year’s Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards, walking away with 40 awards across multiple categories, including 15 gold medals, 12 silver medals and 13 bronze medals, showcasing Aldi’s commitment to supporting Irish suppliers and offering customers the best quality food.

Among the standout winners was the Specially Selected Irish Wagyu Rib Eye Joint with Irish Atlantic Sea Salt and Cracked Black Pepper Infused Beef Marrow, which was awarded a prestigious Gold medal in the Beef- Roast category This product is produced exclusively for Aldi by ABP Cahir

This year, Aldi’s Gold medal-winning products were produced by Oakpark

Foods, ABP Cahir, Silverhill Duck, IGWT, Cashel Farmhouse Cheesemakers, Crust & Crumb Ltd, O’Haras Bakery, Folláin, and CPAC Foods to name a few-highly valued Irish suppliers whom Aldi is proud to collaborate with all year round.

“At Aldi, we are proud to partner with producers up and down the country to deliver the very best quality Irish produce to our customers,” said Colin Breslin, managing director, Buying & Services, Aldi Ireland.

Aldi’s continued success at these awards is a testament to its hard work and innovation and Breslin is thrilled to see Aldi rewarded for its efforts.

“On behalf of everyone at Aldi, I wish to congratulate our suppliers and buying teams on this fantastic achievement,” noted Breslin.

The Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards is the biggest competition for quality Irish produce on the island of Ireland. With more than 150 categories, it recognises and rewards the best of Irish food and drink.

The judging process, developed in conjunction with UCC, is regarded as an industry ‘gold’ standard worldwide with each product subjected to a blind taste test that sees packaging and identifying features removed to ensure a level playing field for products from both large and small producers.

All About Kombucha wins gold

Winning gold at Blas means a hell of a lot more than just a trophy. It’s the equivalent of Mayo winning Sam (as if) or the Irish rugby team getting past the quarterfinals in the world cup for a food business.

All About Kombucha took home two golds for its Kombucha, as well as being the best business in the Ghaeltacht. There’s something magical at those awards. They attract the best of the best and you get to meet them.

Artie and Fallon have helped create a platform that promotes the best of Irish produce in Ireland. All About Kombucha have spent the last 10 years of its life dedicated to creating a raw Kombucha that’s not pasteurised or filtered down.

Unlike most Irish commercial Kombuchas, All About Kombucha stands behind a living Kombucha meaning that it has all those good gut bacterias help promote good gut health.

It helps spread the word of real fermented foods and promotes All About Kombucha’s cause to deliver a Kombucha that’s good to the gut, good on the palate and good to the planet.

The judging panel is composed of food experts from a variety of backgrounds, including chefs, restaurateurs, academics, journalists, authors, food champions, caterers and enthusiastic home cooks.

For more information on the awardwinning products available in 162 Aldi stores. nationwide, please visit www.Aldi.ie

So if you’re keen to taste a bitta irish gold, get yourself some Kombuchas to your front door in less than 24 hours with this discount code LEGEND10and visit All About Kombucha at allaboutkombucha.ie

Aldi named Ireland’s Most Awarded Discount Retailer

Five Farms Single Batch Irish Cream Liqueur

We work with local producers to help identify new trends, bring forward innovative products and grow their business.

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

When you source food and drink from Northern Ireland you can be sure of its pure, natural, quality. That’s why Invest Northern Ireland’s Food and Drink division works with local producers to help them take their products around the world. Whether it’s helping companies to find new markets in the Republic of Ireland, or working with UK supply chains to drive new sales, Invest NI partners with our local producers to help them identify new trends, bring forward innovative products and grow their business.

Learn how you can serve our quality food and drink.

Northern Ireland. Altogether more.

Gr and Centr al Hot el, Belf ast, Co.

Six generations of Broighter Gold

Broighter Gold rapeseed oil is a single estate cold pressed rapeseed oil that is grown, bottled and blended at Broglasco Farm on the edge of the Lough Foyle overlooking Binevenagh Mountain.

Its unique land is rich and fertile which makes it perfect for growing crops and specialising in one single variety seed to ensure consistency is key for its customers.

Broighter Gold prides itself in working closely with the environment on all aspects of its farm, and sustainability being the heart of the family Broighter Gold, now in its 6th generation of farming, has been going for more than 130 years at Broglasco.

Broighter Gold has a range of award winning products, that would suit any shop, restaurant or store and it supplies its own brand products, and its own as far as Dubai.

Local butchers shine through with multiple Gold awards

All roads led to Dingle for Blas na hÉireann, where Irish Butchers’ Guild finalists were amongst the Gold Awards winners at this year’s event.

McCarthy’s of Kanturk, renowned traditional butchers with a heritage dating back to 1892, earned a Gold Award for its signature Traditional Spiced Beef, along with an additional Bronze Award for its Smoked Back Rashers. McCarthy’s were also honoured with the prestigious Irish Butchers’ Guild Award at this year’s event.

Fermoy based Fitzgerald’s Butchers were honoured with a Bord Bia Chef’s Larder Award for its exceptional home cured Guanciale

Furlong’s Foodhall from Gorey, were awarded a Gold Award for its Cucumber Pickle and a Bronze Award for its Potato Salad, and Murphy’s Craft Butchers from Tullow, received a Gold Award for its Black Charcoal Ribeye Steak and a Silver Award for its Traditional Pork Sausages. These accolades underscore the expertise craftsmanship, and exceptional quality found in butcher shops across the country, as well as its unwavering dedication to delivering excellence to its customers.

Jack McCarthy expressed his gratitude and pride, saying, “It’s a real testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion that goes into every product we create These awards are a reflection of our team’s commitment and the loyalty of our customers who appreciate the

craftsmanship we bring to our products.”

Furlongs Butchers, established in 1621 and now led by 13th-generation butcher Paul Furlong, has been a cornerstone of Wexford’s butchery tradition for nearly 400 years. Known for its exceptional quality, innovative ready-to-cook meal solutions, and legendary sausage-making, they continue to uphold the family’s commitment to excellence and quality

Master butcher Barry Fitzgerald expressed his delight upon winning the Chef’s Larder Award for his Guanciale: “This recognition reflects the hard work and passion that our team puts into every product we create It’s

moments like this that inspire us to keep pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve.”

The Fitzgerald family has been serving the Fermoy community since 1964, with Barry currently managing the butcher shop Under his leadership the shop has adopted a modern style while continuing to deliver the expert service and charm that customers value

The Murphy family’s dedication to excellence is evident through numerous awards, Jim and Bernadeta Murphy have previously been honoured with title of Best Butcher Shop of the Year in 2018, and Jim’s membership in the World’s Butchers Challenge Team Ireland, which secured the title in 2018. More recently they represented Ireland at the World Butchers’ Challenge 2022 in Sacramento, California, where they proudly secured the title for having the Best Sausage in the World.

Now in its 17th year, Blas na hÉireann, The Irish Food Awards is the biggest competition for quality Irish produce on the island of Ireland. The annual events build into the biggest celebration in Irish food and its producers, with awards presented in the Blas Village in Dingle Located in the heart of Dingle, this popup village becomes a central point for producers across the country to come together and celebrate the very best of Irish food and drink.

Artie Clifford, Blas with Jim & Bernadeta Murphy

Paul & Karen Furlong

Barry Fitzgerald

John Molloy, IBG presenting award to Jack McCarthy

Broighter Gold’s full range of products

Wexford celebrates 2024 Blas na hÉireann Award winners

Wexford is celebrating the results of the recent Blas na hÉireann Awards with a phenomenal 32 awards going to 17 Wexford food producers from the Model County Blas na hÉireann, the Irish Food Awards, are the largest food awards on the island, open to all 32 counties.

The winners from Co Wexford are Irish Country Meats, Regan Organic Produce, Killowen Farm, Zanna Cookhouse Ltd, Pettitt’s Supervalu, Furlongs Food Hall, Ryans Bakery Wexford Ltd, Kellys Bakery, Bramble Cottage Kitchen, Zaeire Artisan Chocolates, Wexford Home Preserves, Killiane Castle Honey, Wexford Sea Salt, Well Preserved Limited, Isle of Crackers ltd, Elderberry Farm and Naturally Cordial Ltd with Killowen Farm awarded ‘Best in County’.

“Every year, the standard is raised even higher, and it’s an honour for myself and the entire Blas team to showcase these exceptional products and the dedicated producers behind them to a wider audience,” said Artie Clifford, chairperson, Blas na hÉireann.

After seventeen years of these awards, Clifford noted that it is inspiring to witness the continued innovation and quality in the food and drink industry here on the island of Ireland.

“It has been a truly incredible result for Wexford this year at the 2024 Blas na hEireann Awards with 17 Wexford food producers winning 32 awards,” said Stacey Williams, interim managing director, The Wexford Food Producers Network.

Williams noted that this is a remarkable result and a true testament to the dedication and commitment of Wexford’s food production sector who work tirelessly to produce quality foods each year >>

The Busker Single Pot Still collects two awards

The Busker Single Pot Still has won Gold at the Blas na hEireann Awards 2024 The Busker, produced at Royal Oak Distillery has also taken home Gold for Best Producer in County Carlow. Brand activator Richie Delahoyde, and global brand ambassador Woody Kane were in attendance at the awards show in Dingle to collect the two awards for the Busker

The Busker Pot Still is a distinctive expression to Ireland, created to bring you on a journey of exceptional character Distilled in single pot stills and aged in both bourbon and sherry casks. On the nose, you experience rich complex notes of honey, oak, fudge, clove oil, and sometimes perfumed fresh flowers too. Taste buds kick off with some beautiful deep and intense rich spiciness with peppery notes and hints of vanilla and toffee fudge Concluding with a long warm spicy finish.

Best enjoyed neat or on the rocks, but for a Christmas cocktail, try it in your Whiskey Sour for a unique spicy warm feel.

The Royal Oak Distillery is a world class distillery producing hand crafted Irish whiskey, proudly located on an 18th century estate in Ireland’s Ancient East region in Co Carlow. The Royal Oak Distillery is the house of The Busker Irish Whiskey where it distils all three styles of Irish whiskey – pot still, malt and grain – under one roof

Carefully crafting an independent path to an authentic and high-quality Irish whiskey, The Busker balances tradition with innovative and modern techniques. The Royal Oak Distillery uses different casks during the maturation process of its Busker whiskeys including bourbon casks, sherry casks, and marsala casks.

A major point of differentiation for The Busker Irish Whiskey takes place during the ageing process where the blend, Triple Cask Triple Smooth, and Single Grain expressions mature in rare and selected Cantine Florio (1833) Sicilian Marsala wine casks.

The Busker Irish Whiskey, proudly distributed by Barry & Fitzwilliam.

Wexford Food Producer Killowen Farm won three Gold Awards and ‘Best in County’ at the 2024 Blas na hEireann Awards (Photo by Allen Kiely - Blas na hÉireann)

The Busker Irish Whiskey Single Pot Still

Wexford Food Producer member Clodagh Davis, Naturally Cordial winning Silver with its Naturally Cordial Pink Grapefruit & Gold with its Naturally Cordial Orange & Lemon Cordial (Photo by Allen Kiely - Blas na hÉireann)

“On behalf of The Wexford Food Producers Network we would like to extend our warmest congratulations to all of the Wexford winners this year and we wish them all continued success This level of success could not be achieved without the continued support of Wexford County Council and Wexford Local Enterprise Office.”

Blas na hÉireann 2024 saw the return of the Blas Village where this year’s finalists got the opportunity to showcase their products, engage with customers and meet key industry buyers.

The festival focused market ‘Eat Ireland in a Day’ was back for a third year and included a brand new Meet the Maker stage

The Backyard at Blas, in partnership with Bank of Ireland delivered an impressive line up of key industry speakers once again, both in person to the attendees and live streamed.

“The growth of Blas na hÉireann each year is testament to the strength of the indigenous food and drink industry, with the everexpanding number of producers continuing to innovate, and impress the judges with the range of their ambition,” said Lucy Ryan, head of food and beverage sector, Bank of Ireland.

Blas na hÉireann saw another strong year across all categories along with many new producers entering the awards for the first time this year

During the judging, which took place throughout June and July, more than 3,000 entries were judged. Products from every county in Ireland were entered to win bronze, silver or gold awards in more than 170 food and drink categories as well as key awards.

As the competition intensifies each year, earning the prestigious Blas accreditation is a significant accomplishment, signifying that the shortlisted finalists and eventual winners represent the pinnacle of excellence in Irish food and drink.

Viking Irish Drinks celebrates a year of success with four wins

In a year marked by innovation and craftsmanship, Viking Irish Drinks is celebrating a series of prestigious wins at the Blas na hÉireann Awards. The company, known for its dedication to tradition and commitment to quality, earned four coveted awards at the renowned Irish food and drink

Valentia Island Vermouth named Best Artisan Producer in Ireland

Anna and Orla Snook O’Carroll were thrilled to be announced as Best Artisan Producer in Ireland, Best in Kerry and Gold for their Valentia Island Vermouth in the recent Blas na hEireann Awards.

Bartenders and home cocktail enthusiasts are delighted they can now use this award winning vermouth to make all Irish Martinis, all Irish Manhattans and all Irish Negroni’s. And for any Spritz aficionados - Valentia Island Vermouth is delicious served with Prosecco and a slice of orange as a Valentia Spritz or with tonic as a V&T.

Here they are toasting their win with a Negroni Sour in their cottage on Valentia Island.

event, including the title of Best in Waterford. These achievements highlight the unique and artisanal quality Viking Irish Drinks has brought to Ireland’s beverage industry, firmly positioning it as a leader in craft cider, wine, and liqueurs.

In addition to winning the Best in Waterford award, Viking Irish Drinks earned Gold for its Blackcurrant Liqueur, Silver for Caora Fíniúna Waterford Red Wine, and Bronze for Nádúrtha Pét-Nat No 3.

David Dennison, the founder of Viking Irish Drinks, expressed gratitude for the recognition: “Receiving these awards is a tribute to our hard work and commitment to

creating quality, authentic Irish beverages. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our vision resonate with both the judges and our customers.”

Viking Irish Drinks stays true to its roots in Co Waterford, Ireland, and is poised for continued growth, driven by a commitment to crafting premium Irish beverages with passion and respect for tradition.

For more information, visit www.vikingirishdrinks.com

Valentia Island Vermouth (Photo by Joleen Cronin)

Caora Fíniúna Waterford Red Wine

Anna and Orla Snook O’Carroll (Photo by Joleen Cronin)

David Dennison of Viking Irish Drinks

SuperValu producers take home 102 wins

Producers of SuperValu, Ireland’s largest grocery retailer, celebrated another successful year at the Blás na hÉireann awards, taking home 102 awards in recognition of their outstanding products.

This brings the total number of awards won by SuperValu producers over the last three years up to an incredible 315 awards across SuperValu Own Brand, SuperValu Signature Tastes, Food Academy, The Happy Pear and Moo’d Ice-Cream.

SuperValu’s Irish producer wins include 29 Gold, 21 Silver, and 32 Bronze awards, along with several speciality categories. These wins celebrate the exceptional quality and innovation of SuperValu’s Irish producers, showcasing the depth and variety of products proudly sourced throughout the country

SuperValu’s Signature Tastes and Own Brand range took home a total of 38 awards. Included in the Gold award line up was SuperValu Signature Tastes Sweet Tomato & Chilli Chutney produced by Irish producer Folláin. Folláin, who took home a total of one Gold and two Bronze awards, specialise in Fresh Fruit Preserves, Marmalades, Jams, Relishes, Salsas, and Chutneys Situated in the heart of rural West Cork, its delicious products are crafted from 100% natural ingredients.

Food Academy producers, a cornerstone of SuperValu’s support for start-up and early-stage food and drink Irish businesses also celebrated a fantastic year, collecting an impressive 64 awards, including

Centra’s Irish food producers claim 19 awards at this year’s Blas na hÉireann

Centra’s Irish food producers have claimed 19 awards at this year’s Blás na hÉireann, the Irish food awards.

The grocery retailer’s producers took home four Gold awards, eight Silver awards and seven Bronze awards.

Celebrating and recognising the finest Irish food and drink products, Blas na hÉireann awards are the largest blind tasting event of quality Irish products on the island, with producers nationwide competing for the prestigious accolades.

The big wins include 10 products from the Inspired by Centra range, including three Gold

Blas na hÉireann CATEGORY FOCUS

‘Supreme Champion‘ for Shannon Forrest and Declan Malone from Rívesci in Co Tipperary, ‘Best Artisan Producer‘ for Valentia Island Vermouth from Co Kerry and ‘Best Start Up‘ for Killadoon Milk from Co Kildare. Food Academy producers also collected three Chef’s Larders for Coole Farm’s Mixed Leaves, Clonmore Farm’s Spinach Leaves and Roll It Pastry’s Puff Pastry

Baska Bakery from Co Meath, a fifthgeneration bakery and a Food Academy producer, won Gold for their Organic White Country Sourdough. They specialise in naturally leavened sourdough bread made with just flour, water, and salt. Using only organic flour, their bread undergoes a threeday fermentation process, enhancing its

Awards – Inspired By Centra Berry Coulis with Yogurt and Granola and Inspired By Centra Overnight Oats, Vanilla Yoghurt with Blueberries & Strawberries both by FreshCut Food Services as well as the Inspired By Centra Cold Pressed Turmeric Shot by Sunshine Juice.

The Inspired by Centra range is ‘expertly created to bring customers a range with value in mind without compromising on taste or quality’.

Other award winners within the Inspired by Centra range include new salad ranges – Inspired by Centra Chicken & Miso Salad (bronze) and Inspired by Centra Torn Ham, Free range egg and Coleslaw salad (silver), made by the producer Deli Lites.

digestibility and giving it a unique, delicious flavour

“2024 has been another incredible year for SuperValu’s Irish Producers at the Blas na hÉireann awards, with our local Irish producers once again being recognised for their exceptional quality, range and innovation,” said Luke Hanlon, managing director, SuperValu.

Hanlon mentioned that supporting Irish food producers is at the heart of what Supervalu does and it’s fantastic to see producers gain the recognition they deserve.

“We remain committed to championing the best of quality Irish food,” concluded Hanlon.

SuperValu has long championed locally, Irish-sourced food and drink, working with more than 1,800 suppliers, and this year’s wins further emphasise the variety and excellence across all categories: from meats and dairy to innovative new products.

The Blas na hÉireann awards remain Ireland’s most prestigious food and drink competition, showcasing the best products from across the island of Ireland. With thousands of entries across 100 food and drink categories, SuperValu’s continued success at the awards highlights the retailer’s commitment to the very best quality Irish food and drink.

Killadoon Milk

SuperValu Irish producers at Blas na hÉireann Awards 2024

Dermot and Liz Skehan, Fresh Cut win Gold for their Inspired By Centra Overnight Oats as well as their Berry Coulis

Baska Bakery

Valentia Island Vermouth

Key award winners

Key award winners from the Centra range include customer favourites such as Centra Belgian Chocolate Brownie slices by Couverture Desserts, Centra Crème Fraiche by Clona Dairy and Centra Irish rapeseed Oil by Newgrange Gold.

Speaking of the awards, Luke Hanlon, managing director of Centra, stated, “As the leading Irish convenience retailer, we take pride in offering high-quality Irish produce to our customers.

“The fact that our trusted suppliers have won 19 accolades at this year’s awards is a testament to this commitment.

“The Blas accreditation highlights the quality of Centra’s products from trusted Irish suppliers, available across our network of Centra stores nationwide.”

Now in its 17th year, Blas na hÉireann, sees competition from a range of top-quality Irish producers across 32 counties.

Miena's Irish Handmade Nougat honoured at this year’s awards

The wonderful Miena's Irish Handmade Nougat was honoured at the recent Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards for its Almond, Rhubarb & Strawberry Nougat which it supplies to Dunnes Stores as part of the Simply Better at Dunnes Stores label. This was another great achievement for Miena and her small team in Wicklowparticularly after being named Best in Leinster and Best Overall Artisan Producer at the 2023 awards.

Do Me A Flavour® wins the Chefs Larder Award

Up and running for more than 10 years, the multi-award winning Miena’s Irish Handmade Nougat is now located in a small production facility right beside her original home kitchen.

Commenting, Miena, said: “We still handmake all our nougat too, using the best and freshest ingredients we can find. We create different flavours with almonds, pistachios, strawberries, rhubarb, passionfruit and whatever new ingredient we think will work. Including chocolate We really love working with the Simply Better team at Dunnes Stores. They are so supportive of small food producers like us.

“We also love the fact that our humble Irish nougat is now exported around the world and is on sale in the UK, the US, Britain, Denmark, Belgium and Taiwan with new markets opening up all the time We are so proud to fly

Do Me A Flavour® was ‘delighted’ to collect the Chefs Larder Award for its Argentinian Seasoning along with a Silver Award for its Firecracker Seasoning.

Do Me A Flavour® produces a wide and varied range of added value ingredients for retailers in Ireland, Europe and the Middle East and produces bespoke products for its B2B customers from flavoured butters, sauces, crumbs and stuffings to marinades, glazes and melts; its philosophy is simple to make the ordinary great!

Do Me A Flavour Argentinian Style Seasoning

Winning the Chefs Larder Award proves how versatile its Argentinean seasoning is. A wonderful blend of aromatic herbs and spices blended with Atlantic Sea salt, onion and garlic this is a perfect all-purpose seasoning. Extra perfect on a steak or added to cream for a delicious prawn linguine dish.

Do Me A Flavour Firecracker Chilli Seasoning

Its sizzling firecracker chilli seasoning will ignite your customers taste buds with an explosion of flavours, this chilli infused Atlantic Sea salt is perfect for adding a kick to any dish simply shake a teaspoon of this specially blended seasoning onto any dish before roasting, grilling or barbecuing.

For Further Information please contact: Do Me A Flavour®, Monksland, Athlone, Co Roscommon. Visit: www.domeaflavour.ie

Hannah O’Neill, Deli Lites wins Silver for Inspired by Centra torn ham, free range egg & coleslaw salad

Pat Farrell of Folláin wins for Inspired By Centra Raspberry Jam

Miena’s Almond, Rhubarb & Strawberry Nougat

Do Me A Flavour Argentinian Style Seasoning

Do Me A Flavour Firecracker Chilli Seasoning

the ‘great food’ flag for Ireland and to be ambassadors for all that is wonderful about Irish food.”

To find out more about this lovely Irish success story, visit: mienas.ie

The Village Dairy Jersey Milk and Buttermilk win awards

The Village Dairy – ‘Where Milk Matters’

The whole team at The Village Dairy was ‘delighted’ to pick up two awards at this year’s Blas Na hÉireann awards for Jersey Milk and Buttermilk. From the beginning, Noel Barcoe, owner and founder, has had the aim of ‘producing something a little different to what is already on the market’. The Village Dairy produces a range of Conventional, Organic, and Jersey milk products including Buttermilk and Cream. It collects milk directly from farms and The Village Dairy ‘truly believes that the high-quality end product cannot be achieved without the support of the local farmers and their own passion for producing high quality raw milk’.

The recognition it receives from the Blas Na hÉireann awards always helps it to ‘continually strive for higher quality and gives the whole team a boost after the announcements.’

The Village Dairy has built its little dairy up from word of mouth over the last 10 years, and it hopes to ‘continue working hard to maintain the high quality of standards’ while working with suppliers, customers, and the whole team at The Village Dairy Afterall, it is a journey of nearly ten years brought together by all past and present suppliers, customers, and employees.

Roll It Pastry wins Chefs Larder Award for third year

Roll It Pastry was created by a real person for a real need. Mairead Finnegans love of baking meant that she wasn’t willing to compromise on the goodness of homemade pastry, but she didn’t always have time to make it. In creating Roll It Pastry, at first from her home kitchen Finnegan’s conditions were clear, all Irish butter and nothing artificial.

Roll It Pastry has now grown into a thriving business based in Crossakiel, Kells, Co Meath. Roll It produces all butter puff pastry all butter plain shortcrust pastry all butter sweet shortcrust pastry and all butter gluten free shortcrust pastry All are available in the freezer aisle

Roll It is the perfect easy fix for home cooks all around the country, made with Irish butter and only ingredients that you’d find at home Then it is frozen with freshness locked in.

Roll It noted that it is ‘delighted’ to have win the Chefs Larder Award from Blas na hÉireann for the last three years running and to win gold for its all-butter gluten free shortcrust pastry

Tesco Ireland wins 63 awards

In another hugely successful year for the retailer and its Irish producers, Tesco Ireland took home 63 awards at this year’s Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards. This prestigious competition celebrates the very best of Irish produce, exceptional taste and quality, and the passionate producers behind the products.

Tesco Ireland products came out on top, receiving awards across several medal classes including beef, lamb, bacon, sausages, poultry, cured meats, seafood products, ready meals, morning baked goods, soups, dairy cheese breakfast cereal and preserves categories.

Tesco was awarded 21 gold medals including Tesco Lamb Rack with a Mushroom & Herb Crumb, Tesco Finest Belgian Chocolate Vanilla and Salted Caramel Bar 90G, Tesco Finest Cream of Vegetable and Irish Chicken Soup 400G, Tesco Finest Poultry Gravy 300g, Tesco Finest Gherkin and Mustard Relish 190G and Tesco Finest Honey & Irish Whiskey Ham Glaze 230g. Tesco also took home 25 silver and 17 bronze medals.

Joe Manning, commercial director, Tesco Ireland, commented: “ I’m proud that our products have been honoured with 63 awards – 21 gold, 25 silver and 17 bronze medals. This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of both our new and long-standing suppliers, and their un mmitment to omers.

Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards

Miena at this year’s awards

A selection of Roll It Pastry products

A selection of Tesco Finest award-winning products

Festive fare

Irish shoppers are expected to surpass last year’s spending on Christmas essentials, with record sales and a focus on premium items, says Shauna Bernard

Sleigh bells ringing for booming sales! As the holiday season kicks into gear Irish shoppers are set to continue last year’s record-breaking spending on Christmas essentials. According to Kantar, December 2023 saw a whopping €1.4 billion in takehome grocery sales, with average household spending reaching an all-time high of €767€42 more than in 2022. Take-home grocery value sales rose by 7.8%, despite a 5.3%

Maximise Christmas sales with PostPoint’s convenient services

Do more this Christmas with PostPoint PostPoint, a subsidiary of An Post, offers retailers a chance to provide a wide range of convenient, essential services in-store Boost sales with Christmas stamps and One4all Gift Cards

This Christmas, PostPoint retailers can drive sales with exclusive products like Christmas stamps and One4all gift cards, which encourage impulse buys and increase store traffic. Christmas stamps go on sale 31 October 31st - order today by emailing aprs. orders@anpost.ie or calling 1800 300 150

decline in the number of packs bought, reflecting a strong focus on premium holiday essentials.

In the four weeks leading up to Christmas, Irish shoppers made nearly 42 million trips to grocery stores - 3.4 million more than in 2022 and the highest number ever recorded for the season.

Consumers prioritised festive must-haves like chocolate, wine, and whole turkeys,

Win big with PostPoint’s Christmas draw

Get ready for an early Christmas treat! Retailers who order Christmas stamps are automatically entered into PostPoint’s seasonal competitions. Prizes include the latest iPhone 16, AirPods, and €500 One4all gift cards. Stay tuned for updates from PostPoint and follow us on social media for details on how to win.

TFI Leap services now available

Since last year, PostPoint has offered TFI Leap services. Customers can purchase tickets and top up their Leap cards at outlets nationwide, making it easier and more cost-effective to travel across Ireland’s urban and rural networks.

shifting back to larger gatherings and traditional holiday feasts. With 2024 shaping up to continue this trend, retailers have a prime opportunity to meet demand by stocking up on the season’s essentials, from indulgent treats to staple holiday roasts. Ensuring shelves are filled with the perfect Christmas lineup could drive another successful season of bustling sales and high shopper satisfaction.

Become a destination store

Turn your store into a customer hotspot! Offer services like bill payments, phone and Leap card top-ups, and easy pickup and returns for online shopping. PostPoint supports retailers with marketing year-round to help grow your business.

Wishing you a successful Christmas season

PostPoint extends its thanks to all its retailers and wishes you a happy, bustling Christmas season. Postpoint appreciates your ongoing support!

Stamps ps 2024

Make Christmas sweeter with Avonmore’s cream

Don’t forget Avonmore Cream this Christmas! Avonmore’s festive cream range including fresh pouring cream and its ready to serve whipped cream - are the perfect accompaniments for all your Christmas needs. Avonmore’s festive flavours will be available to stores from early December – Avonmore Fresh Pouring Cream, Avonmore Freshly Whipped Cream, Avonmore Brandy Whipped Cream, Baileys Whipped Cream, and Avonmore’s new special edition Avonmore Freshly Whipped Belgian Chocolate Flavoured Cream.

For some delicious, festive recipe inspiration, check out avonmore.ie which features a wide selection of Christmas starters, main courses and desserts as well as treats and festive drinks.

Avonmore Cream is the number one branded cream in the Irish market, with 33.4% category share.

(Source: AC Nielsen Scantrack, 52 w/e 08th Sept 2024 value)

Cuisine de France’s irresistible festive treats

Cuisine de France takes pride in crafting the most delectable festive treats each year, and this year is no exception. Its in-depth understanding of customer preferences allows Cuisine de France to bring the finest quality products and ingredients right to your table

It offers a delightful range of both savoury and sweet options, perfect for busy individuals as well as for those enjoying festive gettogethers with family and friends.

Nearby Ireland is back for the ‘Did you getters’ this Christmas

We have all had those sudden realisations of the forgotten stuffing for the turkey, the missing Christmas movie night snacks or the drinks for those last-minute guests over the festive period. Well this year, S&W Wholesale’s Nearby stores are back for all the “Did You Getters” in the run-up to Christmas. No matter when you receive the “Did You Get” text message or sometimes that “Did You Get” glance you will be able to find what you’re looking for never too far from home at Nearby this year

Ollie

Donnelly brand marketing officer,

Did you get!?!?

S&W Wholesale, said: “This year’s campaign will once again help our independent retailers by boosting footfall and sales as Nearby promotes our value message across Radio, Outdoor, Digital and in-store

“We understand how hectic the Christmas shopping period can be for families and there are always those lastminute runs or forgets. Our retailers are situated perfectly within their local communities to be there for when that “Did You Get” message arrives. Nearby is never too far home and we really want to get that message across this Christmas.”

Donnelly stated: “Value is the message this year, championed through our Bring Home The Value range which includes the likes of those most wanted big brands over the festive period such as Ferrero Rocher, Swizzles Sweets, Maltesers Truffles, CocaCola, Bottlegreen and more.”

We’re here for the Did you getters always-nearby.com

This year, Cuisine de France is excited to help make your celebrations even more memorable with its special festive treat lineup

Date, Honey & Walnut Bloomer:

Richly packed with dates and subtly spiced, this bread is ideal for elevating your cheeseboard or creating a gourmet toasted glazed ham sandwich.

Classic Sweet Mince Pie:

Indulge in Cuisine de France’s delicious shortcrust pastry filled with an abundance of rich fruits, juicy sultanas, sweet currants, and a hint of mixed spice. It’s so delightful that even Mrs. Claus wants to get her hands on the recipe!

Festive Sausage Roll:

Enjoy Cuisine de France’s flaky pastry encasing a flavourful pork sausage, infused with herbs and complemented by Ballymaloe cranberry sauce.

Retailers have an opportunity to boost their Christmas sales with Cuisine de France’s festive offerings. For more details, visit www.aryzta.ie or connect with your local business developer

Giving the gift of festive flavour

Why not treat someone special (that includes yourself) to some Forest Feast favourites.

Whatever the occasion, Forest Feast has something right for you.

Handcrafted in Co Armagh, using only the finest Belgian chocolate, in locally sourced, sustainable packaging, Forest Feast luxury gift cubes make the perfect last-minute gift, teacher present or stocking filler

The range comprises of:

Salted Dark Chocolate Almonds

Oven roasted skin-on Almonds, drenched in Belgian dark chocolate, with a sprinkling of salt and a dusting of cocoa. A rich, intense

If you are on the receiving end of the “Did You Get”… text or need to pop out to get those must-haves in your cupboards this Christmas, Nearby stores are here for all you “Did You Getters.”

sweet-salty experience. (Vegan, Gluten Free, 2-stars Great Taste Awards 2022) 6x140g

Salted Caramel Milk Chocolate Almonds; Sweet caramelised air-roasted Almonds with a hint of sea salt are dipped in creamy Milk Chocolate They are an irresistibly moreish treat! (Vegetarian, Gluten Free, 1-star Great Taste Awards 2022) 6x 140g >>

Avonmore Belgian Chocolate Cream Pot

Cuisine de France’s Mince Pies

CAPTION: Forest Feast’s Salted Caramel Milk Chocolate Almonds, Blonde Chocolate Caramelised Hazelnuts and Salted Dark Chocolate Almonds

Forest Feast Gift Cubes

Blonde Chocolate Caramelised Hazelnuts

Toasted hazelnuts rolled in a crisp caramelised coating and then drenched in creamy Belgian blonde chocolate with hints of butterscotch and shortbread. These more-ish little beauties are a limited batch and won’t be around for long! (Vegetarian, Gluten Free, 1 -star Great Taste Awards 2024) 6x 100g

The products are all gluten Free, Vegetarian/Vegan Friendly and are available to order now. All products come in Shelf Ready Boxes with RRSP €6. For further information or to stock the range, please contact hello@forestfeast.com

Christmas Essentials CATEGORY FOCUS

Savour the season with Lily O’Brien’s

Show your friends and family how much you know and love them with a gift of Lily O’Brien’s chocolates this Christmas. Made in Ireland and crafted with Lily O’Brien’s signature chocolate, this mouth wateringly delicious range is the perfect choice for gifting and sharing this Christmas.

Lily O’Brien’s is the largest of the Irish brands in the premium box chocolate market in Ireland and is the second largest brand overall in the total premium box chocolate category (Source: Nielsen MAT Dec 2023). From the bestselling decadently indulgent

Desserts Collection, the Ultimate Chocolate Collection, Truffles and some exciting new products, Lily O’Brien’s has the perfect product range to suit your shoppers needs this Christmas.

Firm family favourites with Irish shoppers and ranked in the top five premium chocolate collections (Source Nielsen MAT December 2023), the iconic Desserts Collections are must stock items for Christmas 2024 The Desserts Collection includes some of the world’s best loved dessert recipes and is available in two box sizes- a 16 choc and a larger 30 choc box and this year the brand is introducing a large, limited-edition box of Dessert Chocolates with a seasonal twist! >>

Lily O’Brien’s Desserts Collection

Each festive box contains 24 chocolates with nine recipes including four new limited-edition chocolates: Berry Eton Mess, Dark Orange, Triple Chocolate Shot and Spiced Latte. This collection is a dessert lover’s dream come true

Lily O’Brien’s are proud to launch the Luxury Collection where every bite exudes luxury and indulgence. This beautifully designed large box of 27 chocolates with nine delicious recipes explores a world of sumptuous textures and flavours. Each chocolate is a luxurious treat to captivate the senses. From Rapturous Raspberry to Caramelised biscuit bliss, Truffle Decadence and Coffee & Biscotti this collection really is a feast for the senses.

Lily O’Brien’s are also launching a large variety box of truffles perfect for sharing with friends and family at get togethers over the festive season. The current range of three single flavour 200g truffle boxes will be joined in store this year by new Assorted Chocolate Truffles 337g. Each box of Assorted Truffles contains four delicious recipes-Milk Chocolate, Salted Caramel, Vanilla and a new Dark

chocolate truffle with a milk chocolate centre. This is the perfect box for those who can’t decide which flavour to pick, whatever the occasion they are the truffilicious way to make moments with friends and family sweeter

For a successful Christmas season and to continue to grow your sales this year make sure to stock Lily O’Brien’s this Christmas Season. All Lily O’Brien’s chocolate collections are made in Ireland, each chocolate is crafted with a commitment to quality and flavour to bring joy to all chocolate lovers. Available to order through Tennant & Ruttle, contact your Sales Representative for more information. www.lilyobriens.ie

Unwrap the magic of Lindt chocolate this Christmas

Lindt chocolate is delicious all year round, but at Christmas there is an added sense of magic. It is the perfection expression of love this festive season. Whether it’s a moment of bliss before, after or mid preparing the Christmas dinner with loved ones, a Kris Kindle present, or something special under the Christmas tree,

the Master Chocolatiers at Lindt have been hard at work creating a selection of sumptuous gifts for the Christmas season. Back for Christmas once again are the Lindt Teddy Milk Chocolate (100g) €5.75, Lindt Reindeer (100g) €5.75, and a special Lindt Teddy in a festive green Christmas jumper (200g) €8.25.

LINDOR, Ireland’s number one boxed chocolate has a delicious range of mouthwatering chocolate to match every taste There are ten premium chocolate truffle flavours to choose from, ensuring there is something for all the family even the in-laws! The LINDOR truffles come in familiar sizes that you love all year round such as 200g cornet and the 337g cornet for those Christmas dinner parties. For the Christmas period the beloved Milk and Assorted packs come with festive packaging to upgrade your gifting, sure to impress anyone this season.

LINDOR also has curated the perfect after dinner treat in the limited-edition Irish Cream and the new Dark Mint flavour launched to celebrate 75 years of LINDOR. LINDOR truffles

Glenhaven’s award-winning gold standard tenders & new snacking range

This Christmas, Glenhaven is elevating festive gatherings with its award-winning gold standard tenders and newly expanded snacking range Made with the finest Irish ingredients, Glenhaven makes holiday entertaining effortless, flavourful, and proudly local.

Launched this summer, Glenhaven’s gold standard Irish Chicken Fillet Tenders set a new benchmark for quality in frozen food. Made with 100% natural Irish chicken breast fillet, these premium tenders come in two delicious flavours - Sizzler Hot &

Spicy for a fiery kick, and Original Recipe for a classic taste Both options bring restaurant quality to festive meals or casual snacking, combining convenience with exceptional flavour

Just in time for the season, Glenhaven introduced a unique addition to its snacking range: Crispy Cheese Donuts. Made with 100% Irish cheese, this playful snack is perfect for sharing or enjoying solo Alongside Cheese Donuts, the range includes Pizza Cheese, Chilli Cheese, and Nacho Cheese Bites, all featuring high-quality Irish cheese

that celebrates local ingredients in every bite.

Glenhaven’s recent recognition with two Blas na hÉireann Awards and two Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards reflects its commitment to excellence and its mission to redefine frozen food.

The company’s focus on quality is matched by its support for local communities.

“Irish consumers are keen to purchase Irish products, but many are unaware that a lot of Irish owned brands are produced overseas,” said Emma Cahill, brand director, Glenhaven.

“Glenhaven’s focus on quality Irish ingredients, and our family story on the back of pack, helps to remind customers of the real people behind our products, and all the Irish jobs and families who are supported when you buy locally.”

This Christmas, come home to Glenhaven - a deliciously convenient way to elevate every festive moment.

Lindt Teddy

Lily O’Brien’s Luxury Collection Lily O’Brien’s Assorted Chocolate Truffles

magical heart charm. Scan the QR code on the back with a smartphone, point the camera towards the front of the Teddy AR Advent Calendar, and watch the magic unfold. The Lindt Teddy Augmented Reality Advent Calendar 250g will be available nationwide (RRP €16.50), making it the perfect gift for families and friends seeking chocolate delights and some extra fun!

Lindt has made it easy to make every family member feel special. Gift each person a

LINDOR Assorted Selection Box are also available in gift box formats to spark moments of connection and sharing between your nearest and dearest this Christmas.

Ideal for sharing, the LINDOR Assorted Tin offers six varieties. From classic Milk, and White chocolate to the irresistible Salted Caramel, there’s a flavour for everyone The only problem you will have is knowing which flavour to choose!

This year also sees the return of the Lindt Teddy Augmented Reality Advent Calendar, enchanting chocolate lovers by combining the finest milk chocolate expertly crafted by the Master Chocolatiers, and 24 captivating, augmented reality experiences. The Lindt Teddy AR Advent Calendar will include 24 of the finest Lindt milk chocolates, including the iconic Lindt Teddy 100G with his unique and

different advent calendar and they are sure to enjoy their unique selection of luxury chocolates. The Lindt Teddy Winter Wonderland Advent Calendar 170g (€9.50) and Lindt Festive Selection Advent Calendar 296g (€16.50) are also the perfect way to countdown to Christmas!

Also returning this year are the indulgent LINDOR selection boxes - available in Milk and Assorted and filled with an irresistible assortment of LINDOR favourites including tempting truffles and bars! It wouldn’t be the festive season without an advent calendar and there is a milk chocolate truffle behind every door of the LINDOR Milk Chocolate Truffles Advent Calendar 300g.

So, whether you’re travelling to see family, visiting friends, or treating your loved ones or yourself at home this festive season, it wouldn’t be Christmas without Lindt. Enjoy the magic of Christmas with Lindt.

Tesco Ireland releases Simon the Sloth to support sick children this Christmas

Tesco Ireland has introduced Simon the Sloth – a new plush teddy that will be available to buy in all Tesco stores nationwide now.

Made from 100% recycled materials, Simon the Sloth will be available for €5, with all proceeds directly donated to Tesco’s charity partner Children’s Health Foundation. >>

This Christmas This

Lindt Advent Calendar

Oisin’s story

Last year, Tesco received a letter from a 12-year-old boy from Greystones, Co Wicklow called Oisin, explaining that his great aunt gave him a Tesco Christmas teddy a few years ago, Cedric, and it has been one of his most prized possessions ever since – he brought Cedric to bed every night to help him feel safe, and even snuck it to school in his backpack every day so that he wouldn’t feel alone

Because of this, he felt inspired and asked Tesco if they could create a sloth named Simon – even sending a drawing of Simon along with his letter

Simon the Sloth

This year, Oisin’s dream became a reality and Simon the Sloth came to life, with more than 40,000 of these teddys set to be sold in Tesco stores across the country to raise funds for sick children.

New for 2024, Simon the Sloth has its very own Christmas card too!

The very special card will be available to buy for €2 and when sending your Christmas wishes this year, you will be supporting the care of sick children at CHI Crumlin, Temple Street, Tallaght, and Connolly hospitals.

Children’s Health Foundation and Tesco Ireland are committed to supporting sick children across Ireland.

Since 2014, Tesco Ireland has been a proud supporter of Children’s Health Foundation raising over €10 million for sick children and their families.

All funding has been used to buy vital medical equipment to help treat Ireland’s sick children.

Tesco customers are encouraged to be reallife heroes and participate in this effort to raise much-needed funds for Children’s Health Foundation by going to their local Tesco store to buy Simon the Sloth* for €5 or the Christmas card for €2, with all proceeds going to Children’s Health Foundation.

*Available while stocks last

’Tis

the season to make an impact

Tony’s Chocolonely’s festive range hits shelves across Ireland

Featuring new and revamped Christmas Countdown Calendars plus returning fan favourite

This Christmas, Tony’s Chocolonely is firmly on Santa’s Nice List with a lineup of festive treats that do more than just satisfy your

Once you pop the celebrations don’t stop

Pringles is bringing extra cheer to the festive season with the launch of its limitededition Christmas tubes in Ireland. Available in two beloved flavours, Original and Sour Cream & Onion, these festive tubes are set to make holiday celebrations even more delightful.

The limited-edition offering comes in the newly launched paper-based tube, ensuring that your favourite crisps stay fresh and delicious. The more widely recyclable Pringles tube is made from 90% paper and has a paper base, which means customers can put it straight in their home recycling bin. It has a plastic lid that can also be recycled. The paper-based tube has been rigorously tested by the company’s packaging experts to make sure it protects the iconic saddle-shaped crisps and keeps them fresh for 15 months, just like the original can.

The festive tubes will be available nationwide from 1 November, making it easy for everyone to join in the celebrations. Whether hosting a holiday party or enjoying a quiet night in, Pringles’ new Christmas tubes are the perfect snack to share with family and friends.

Ann Rose Eng, senior brand activation

sweet tooth. The range ensures that together, one chocolate treat at a time, Tony’s Chocolonely can strive to end exploitation in the chocolate industry

Whether you’re treating yourself, surprising a loved one, or looking for the perfect stocking filler, Tony’s is asking chocolate lovers to consider if their festive chocolate is naughty or nice and encouraging us to choose goodies that not only taste incredible but make a positive impact globally

Tony’s Christmas collection delivers delicious indulgence with impact. With a focus on flavour, fairness, and fun, the selection of treats is packed with purpose, making it easy to make the ethical choice this festive season.

The choc-tastic range includes:

• NEW Compact Countdown Calendar – The latest addition to Tony’s festive lineup, this calendar is loaded with 24 Tiny Tony’s in classic flavours: milk caramel sea salt and milk chocolate, hidden behind unequally

manager, Pringles Ireland, said: “Christmas is the most important period for retailers in Ireland. This year Pringles, which is the number one in large sharing crisps and snacks1 during this period, gets a limitededition festive makeover.”

Celebrate the festive season with Pringles’ new limited-edition Christmas tubes. Once you pop, the celebrations don’t stop! 1.

Festive Tubes

divided windows! Featuring a convenient pop-out stand, it’s perfect for a festive display at home! Available for €12 at Supervalu, Centra, and independent & speciality stores including Brown Thomas and EarthMother.ie

• REVAMPED Countdown Calendar – A returning big favourite, Tony’s classic calendar is back and better than ever, featuring a revamped fun design, inspired by a cozy winter home! To highlight the inequality in the chocolate industry, the calendar is unequally divided, too. It divides 25 tasty Tiny Tony’s chocolates, in 10 fun flavours, over 24 windows Available for €15 at Tesco, Dunnes, and independent & speciality stores including Brown Thomas.

• Tiny Tony’s Christmas Pouch – These Tiny Tony’s Christmas Pouches are filled with >>

Nielsen Scantrack Sales Value 4 wks ending 31/12/23.

Tony’s Countdown Calendar

Tiny Tony Christmas Pouch

Oisin and Simon the Sloth

15 bite-sized treats in mixed flavours, perfect for sharing with friends and family or keeping to yourself This recyclable pouch is priced at €6 and available at Supervalu, Centra, Tesco, and independent & speciality stores, including EarthMother.ie

• Tiny Tony’s Gift Box - This adorable, fully recyclable box holds 20 Tiny Tony’s in five classic flavours. Ideal as a stocking filler or thoughtful gift, it’s available for €7.29 at Tesco, and independent & speciality stores.

• Christmas Tasting Pack – Can’t choose a favourite? The Christmas Tasting Pack is perfect, offering six small bars in Tony’s best-selling flavours, all with a festive twist. It’s the ultimate stocking filler at €10, available now at Supervalu, Centra, and independent & speciality stores, including EarthMother.ie

Tony’s roadmap to ending exploitation in cocoa is comprehensive. Due to structurally low cocoa prices, millions of cocoa farmers are living in poverty, the root cause of forced labour, child labour and deforestation. Tony’s sources all its cocoa beans through Tony’s Open Chain – according to its five Sourcing Principles – and invites all chocolate brands to join its initiative.Tony’s promises to lead by example and show that chocolate can be made differently, with an ethical supply chain and fairtrade chocolate that tastes amazing. Tony’s is tackling exploitation in the cocoa supply chain all year round but with chocolate sales ready to reach new heights this festive season, Tony’s Chocolonely invites us all to ask: is the chocolate we’re enjoying Naughty or Nice? By choosing Tony’s, you’re supporting a fairer more sustainable chocolate industry –and staying on Santa’s Nice List while indulging in delicious treats – it’s a win-win for everyone!

Please note that all prices are recommended retail prices (RPP) and may vary depending on the retailer across the Republic of Ireland. For further information on stockists visit: www.tonyschocoloney.com

Top of the wish list

Butlers Chocolates, Ireland’snumber onepremium inlaid boxed chocolates brand*, has Christmas indulgence all wrapped up and filled to the brim with gorgeous chocolates that bringjoy with every bite.

For a luxury chocolate gift that hits all the sweetest notes,Butlers Ballotins are a muststock premium Irish-made chocolate gift. Available in three sizes (160g, 320g and 480g featuring 12, 24 and 36 chocolates respectively), the beautifully gift-wrapped boxes showcase a carefully curated selection of classic Butlers favourites, made for sharing and savouring. The irresistible selection inside each box includes white chocolate Raspberry Heart, dark chocolate Intense Truffle and popular festive favouritesincluding Marzipan and Orange Crunch.

Also available is The Chocolate Collection by Butlers – an iconic chocolate assortment featuring a stylish and contemporary selection of chocolate truffles, pralines and caramels in 185g and 300g sizes – the perfect chocolate gift for everyone on the nice list. Presented in a smart lid and base box, the box is embellished with a bronze and gold foil art

Christmas Essentials CATEGORY FOCUS

For all your needs this Christmas

At BWG Foods wholesale division it is passionate about quality, service and great value for money. Through its enhanced corporate gifting offering and expertise, along with its commitment to outstanding service, BWG Foods aims to exceed customer expectations.

Its bespoke hampers give customers the opportunity to create the ideal corporate Christmas gift made specifically to their requirements. Whether it’s a luxurious hamper or a thoughtful thank you, BWG Foods has it covered.

You can rely on our innovation and professionalism to help you create a special gift. From every day to luxury ranges, Irish artisan foods, sweet treats and savoury delights, world-renowned wines, beers, and spirits, it caters to all tastes. It’s team of

experts are on hand and will work closely with customers to create the perfect gift or help you with your selection from its extensive range

It’s local presence around the country means BWG Foods is always close to you, no matter where your business is. It has representatives ready to discuss all of your corporate gifting needs and offer a nationwide delivery service.

Let BWG Foods take care of everything this Christmas.

If you have specific requirements in mind, its experienced team would be delighted to help you create the perfect corporate gift this Christmas and all year round!

Contact your local branch, representative or its telesales team on 021 454 8700

deco print sleeve with a circular aperture. Taking chocolate indulgence to the next level, Butlers also produce an extensive range of beautifully coordinated solid chocolate bars in a variety of decadent flavours such as 40% Milk Chocolate, Honeycomb Crisp Salted Caramel, Mint Crunch and also vegan friendly options of Dark Almond & Orange and 70% and 78% Cocoa.

Each bar features striking on-pack iconography highlighting Butlers responsible manufacturing practices of using recyclable packaging, sustainably sourced cocoa, vegetarian ingredients and no palm oil. Also called out on front of pack is solar power, as the Butlers factory is home to one of the largest solar roof installations on an industrial premises in Ireland.

With a proven track record in store, supported by a quick turnaround on orders, it’s never too late to stock uponor place additional orders for Butlers Chocolates this festiveseason!Please email the team at sales@ butlers.ie for details on these or any other lines.

*(Source: Nielsen NIQ 52wk October 2024 Total Scantrak).

Festive feasts made easy

As Christmas approaches, it’s essential to stock your aisles with products that cater to busy households. Pizza da Piero Ireland’s multi-award-winning sourdough pizza base brand, is the perfect addition to festive fridges this season. With its authentic Italian taste and versatility, Pizza da Piero helps make postChristmas mealtimes effortless and delicious.

Ideal for using up turkey, ham, and other leftovers, Pizza da Piero pizza bases allow shoppers to create fuss-free, tasty meals in minutes. At just 365 calories per large base and under 130 for minis, they provide a lighter, healthier option - perfect during a season of indulgence.

Each base is handcrafted daily in Rathcoole, Co Dublin, using high-quality ingredients

without artificial colours, preservatives, or flavourings, and they’re vegan-friendly and dairy-free Available in both mini and large sizes, Pizza da Piero caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, appealing to healthconscious consumers and families alike.

This Christmas, Pizza da Piero is also supporting retailers with an engaging PR campaign, offering creative recipe ideas and

SuperValu to sell 100,000 Irish-grown poinsettias this Christmas

In partnership with Irish grower Uniplumo, SuperValu is set to offer 100,000 Bord Bia-approved poinsettias, celebrating nearly three decades of supporting local growers

SuperValu has announced that they expect to sell 100,000 Irish grown poinsettias in the run up to Christmas.

The vibrant red is a firm favourite with Supervalu’s customers every Christmas.

All Poinsettias sold by SuperValu are Bord Bia-approved and carry the Bord Bia Quality Mark.

Uniplumo partnership

This year marks the 29th year that the North Dublin based grower Uniplumo has worked with SuperValu to supply the popular festive plant.

SuperValu recognises the environmental, social and economic benefits that come from supporting local and buying Irish produce. ■

tips for Christmas leftovers. Designed to drive interest and sales, the campaign highlights the brand’s commitment to quality and convenience.

By stocking Pizza da Piero, you’re offering customers an Irish-made, artisan product that brings genuine Italian flavour to their tables, ensuring they’ll return for more all season long.

Pictured at the Uniplumo poinsettias glasshouses in Oldtown, Co. Dublin is Kayla, Theo and Uniplumo grower Paddy O’Dwyer as SuperValu celebrates 29 years working with the Irish supplier

da Piero’s variety of Stone baked pizza bases

Christmas cheer

The festive season is an ideal time for alcohol brands to drive sales, as holiday gatherings, gift exchanges, and celebratory meals often call for special beverages, writes Donna Ahern

During the Christmas period, shoppers tend to browse more actively, whether in stores or online, providing alcohol brands brands with increased opportunities to capture attention and promote their products.

Traditionally, holiday favourites such as mulled wine, cream liqueurs, champagne, and premium wines remain popular choices. These classic beverages are often associated with warmth, luxury and celebration, aligning well with the holiday spirit. However,

Hennessy releases Founder’s Edition to commemorate 300 years of Irish legacy

Irish Artists, Maser and Conor Harrington, crafted the honorary founder’s edition bottle in Tribute to Irishman Richard Hennessy who founded the world-renowned brand.

In celebration of this historic moment for Hennessy, the brand hosted a party in Dublin to toast the occasion and honour Irish art, music, culture, and the rich Irish legacy that Hennessy holds close to its heart. This event was hosted by DJ and presenter, Tara Kumar who interviewed Conor Harrington and Maser, exploring their creative process and the magnitude of this pivotal point in the Hennessy Ireland story Guests enjoyed expertly crafted Hennessy cocktails paired with gourmet food while Ireland’s top DJs provide the tunes to exciting experiential and immersive offerings.

Irish artists Maser and Conor Harrington were selected to create its historic Founder’s Edition bottle, celebrating the 300th anniversary of the birth of its Irish founder, Richard Hennessy It is the perfect blend of then and now. Both artists’ work resonates perfectly with the Hennessy VS brand character: vibrant, artistic and street! A symbol of Irish pride and achievement, the original artwork will hold pride of place upon the walls of Killavullen, the Cork home of Richard Hennessy

Supporting avant-garde art has been a longstanding tradition and today the brand continues that legacy with collaborations in contemporary street culture including with the

there’s also a noticeable trend toward experimentation, with consumers increasingly interested in trying unique or limited-edition drinks. This openness to new flavours and brands allows companies to introduce innovative products or seasonal variations, which can help them stand out in a crowded market. Brands that leverage festive packaging,

premier basketball league, the NBA, innovative fashion designer, Kim Jones, hip-hop legend, Nas and many more. Closer to home Hennessy’s collaborations with Ireland’s creatives includes partnerships across street fashion, art & music with the likes of Emporium, Dublin Block Party, the Future of Irish Music & Irelands rap duo Travis & Elzzz.

Tito’s Handmade Vodka

Tito’s Handmade Vodka, America’s Original Craft Vodka, has quickly become one of Ireland’s favourite imported spirits. This holiday season, shake up a decadent afterdinner drink that adds a jolt of bold espresso and a little sweetness to your smooth Tito’s The ‘Tito’s Espresso Martini’ combines 60ml of Tito’s Handmade Vodka, 30ml of coffee

Tito’s Espresso

and Tito’s Handmade Vodka

themed promotions, and creative marketing campaigns can further enhance their appeal, drawing in customers who are looking for both traditional favourites and novel experiences. This combination of seasonal nostalgia and the curiosity for new offerings makes the festive season a lucrative and dynamic time for the alcohol industry

liqueur, 30ml of espresso, 15ml of simple syrup, and 15ml of creamer (optional). Just add all those ingredients in a shaker with ice, then shake and strain into a martini glass, and garnish with espresso beans. Couldn’t be easier!

Tito’s Handmade Vodka, which is now available in over 140 markets across the world, is distilled and bottled in Austin, Texas, on the very same plot of land where it all started more than 25 years ago when sixth-generation Texan Bert “Tito” Beveridge built a small shack, rigged a pot still with spare parts and batch distilled his corn-based, naturally glutenfree vodka. In Ireland, Tito’s is available through Comans Beverages Ltd

Stoli® Vodka, a brand rooted in tradition

Experience the legacy and quality that defines Stoli® Vodka, a brand rooted in tradition and committed to the craft of creating a vodka like no other Every bottle of Stoli is meticulously crafted from natural grain and undergoes a rigorous triple filtration process—first through quartz sand and then through birch-activated charcoal. This unique approach ensures Stoli’s signature purity exceptional smoothness, and clean taste, qualities that have earned it over 100 awards worldwide

For those who appreciate both heritage and innovation in their spirits, Stoli stands as a symbol of distinction. Its versatile balanced flavour profile makes it an ideal choice for both classic cocktails and adventurous new mixes. Whether served straight up on the rocks, or as the foundation for your favourite drinks, Stoli’s commitment to quality shines through with every sip

Martini

56 CATEGORY FOCUS Christmas Drinks

>>

Distributed in the Republic of Ireland by DrinksGenius, Stoli continues to be a leading choice for discerning vodka lovers. Discover Stoli and elevate your vodka experience. Please enjoy responsibly

Celebrate Christmas this year with ‘The world’s best Irish Vodka’

Since launching in May 2022, the team at i-Stil 38 Premium Irish Vodka have built up an impressive amount of accolades.

• To begin with, it is now one of the biggest selling premium Irish vodka in the country

• i-Stil 38 just won best Vodka at The World Drinks Awards. Such recognition is testimony to the hard work and dedication of i-Stil 38’s founders, one of whom is lifestyle entrepreneur Pippa O’Connor Ormond.

“The World Drink Awards have celebrated and showcased some of the best and well known brands on the planet. As a partner and i-Stil 38’s creative director, it’s very humbling to see us now sitting amongst such international giants. Irish spirits are now in massive global demand and I love being a part of it,” she said.

Oisin Davis of Great Irish Beverages consulted on a cocktail creation for the Ballymaloe cranberry sauce, a simple drink to mix up either at home or in a bar

“With the holiday season nearly upon us, no dinner table is complete without a jar of cranberry sauce - whether it’s destined for the plate or lovingly dressed onto a sandwich, it is the perfect accompaniment to so many Christmas meals,” he said.

“I have also taken great pleasure in mixing our Ballymaloe & i-Stil 38 Vodka cranberry sauce into some very tasty cocktails, an ideal way to celebrate some Christmas cheer!”

Cranberry Christmas Royale

Ingredients:

35 ml i-Stil 38 pink berries vodka

1 teaspoon Ballymaloe & i-Stil 38 vodka cranberry sauce

1 teaspoon of lemon juice, 100 ml of dry prosecco lemon twist to garnish.

Celebrate the season with the Fercullen Spicy Sour

As the winter chill sets in, there’s no better way to warm up than with a festive cocktail that embodies the spirit of the season.

Introducing the Fercullen Spicy Sour, a delightful creation that combines the rich, smooth flavours of Fercullen Falls Irish Whiskey with a zesty twist, perfect for any holiday gathering.

Fercullen Irish Whiskey renowned for its perfect blend of 50% malt and 50 % grain and smooth taste, serves as the heart of this cocktail.

The Fercullen Spicy Sour brings together the whiskey’s warm vanilla notes with a vibrant blend of fresh lemon juice, a hint of honey, and a dash of aromatic bitters. The magic ingredient? A touch of winter spice that adds a warming kick, making this drink an instant favourite for the colder months.

To prepare the Fercullen Spicy Sour, start by combining 50ml of Fercullen Irish Whiskey, 25ml of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 15ml of honey syrup in a shaker with ice. Add a dash of bitters and a pinch of winter spice - think cinnamon or nutmeg.

Sip, celebrate, and save with Aldi’s Christmas wine range

Kick off the festive season in style with Aldi’s fantastic range of Christmas wines. Available now in Aldi stores nationwide, this year’s range includes bargain bubbles, rich reds and winter whites - all at everyday affordable prices!

Whether you’re raising a toast, enjoying a festive feast or counting down to midnight, Aldi has the perfect wine to pair with every special moment this Christmas season. Take a look at some of the wines arriving in 162 Aldi stores this season.

Fizz the season…

Shake well and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a lemon twist and a sprinkle of cinnamon for that extra festive touch.

Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, the Fercullen Spicy Sour is the perfect companion. Cheers to a warm and wonderful holiday season!

is also home to refreshing alcohol-free alternatives like Zerozecco or Rosé Zerozecco €3.49.

Fancy a cosy red?

Red is Santa’s favourite colour and will be yours too, when you dive into Aldi’s range of red wine Pour yourself a glass of Specially Selected Douro Reserva €9.99, a smooth, robust red from Portugal’s Douro Valley. Discover Specially Selected Castellore Barolo €19.99, a full-bodied Italian red. Try the Specially Selected Chassaux et Fils Châteauneuf-du-Pape €19.99, a standout new addition to Aldi’s wine range that is perfect for festive nights in.

Prefer alcohol free? Aldi

Have a bubbly Christmas with Aldi’s unbeatable range of festive fizz! From marking special occasions to whipping up festive cocktails, you’ll find a super selection of sparkling wine at Aldi. Savour a glass of Aldi’s new Specially Selected Kooliburra Australian Sparkling Shiraz €9.99 Let the prosecco flow with Costellore Prosecco DOC €14.99, another new addition to Aldi’s wine range this year For a sophisticated sparkler, try the Specially Selected Crémant du Jura €17.99 endorsed by Ireland’s leading wine commentators. Crack open the champers with Nicolas de Montbart Champagne €24.99, an easy-drinking number that’s delicious on its own or as part of a Christmas morning mimosa!

At Aldi, you will also find a selection of award-winning red wines that promise to elevate every festive gathering, including Grande Alberone Red €9.99 and Saint-Emilion Grand Cru €14.99, both recipients of Silver at this year’s Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards and sure to impress guests.

Dreaming of a white Christmas…

Sip back and relax this Christmas with Aldi’s stunning collection of winter white wines. Looking for a crowd pleaser? Brighten up those chilly Christmas nights with Specially Selected Estevez Sauvignon Blanc €8.49, a fresh white wine from Chile Enjoy a glass of Specially Selected Pouilly-Fumé €16.99, a French wine that strikes a delicate balance between citrus fruits and a hint of smoke and spice. Indulge in a glass of elegance with Specially Selected Chablis Premier Cru €19.99, a crisp, refreshing white that will go down a treat.

Something sweet?

Looking for the perfect dessert wine? With its collection of port and sherry, Aldi ought to be your first port of call. Have a very, sherry Christmas with Specially Selected Pedro Ximénez Sherry €6.99, a smooth, velvety

Cranberry Christmas Royale, Ballymaloe & i-Stil 38 Vodka

Costellore Prosecco Frizzante

Fercullen Falls Irish Whiskey Small Batch

sherry that makes for a tasty post-dinner tipple ‘Tis the season for port. Make the most of the festive season with delicious Fletcher’s 10 Year Old Tawny Port €14.99 and Fletcher’s Late Bottled Vintage Port €12.99, ideal for festive get-togethers or even gifting. Sips for under ¤7.50

Aldi is proud to stock premium quality wine at prices that won’t break the bank. That’s why it has a selection of sips for under €7.50 to help you get the party started this season, including Baron St Jean Blanc, Rosé or Rouge only €5.99 each, Grapevine Sauvignon Blanc €7.10 and Toro Loco Superior €7.49. Now that’s fantastic festive value!

Please contact Aldi if you require any samples of the range of wines available in 162 Aldi stores nationwide this Christmas.

Ampersand Wines Christmas Collection

This festive season, Ampersand Wines presents a selection of premium wines and Champagnes, perfect for retailers looking to elevate their Christmas offerings. Leading the lineup is the elegant Prestige des Sacres Champagne (€50), which recently won a gold medal for Best Champagne Under €80 at the Irish Wine Show. Steeped in French history from the Champagne region of Reims, where 33 French kings were crowned, Prestige des Sacres offers both refined taste and heritage, making it an ideal choice for holiday

celebrations or as a luxury gift.

57 Christmas Drinks CATEGORY FOCUS

Christmas Wines Collection and vibrant flavours, making them perfect crowd-pleasers for festive gatherings, without compromising on value

In addition to these award-winning wines, Ampersand offers a festive selection from Rioja Vega Wines. Both the Rioja Vega Crianza and Rioja Vega Reserva, previously titled Wine of the Year, now come with rebranded labels and free gift boxes, making them ideal for Christmas gifting. The Limited-Edition Crianza comes in a striking branded tube, while the Gran Reserva is available in gift boxes and wooden boxes of three or six bottles, perfect for corporate gifts or Rioja Vega enthusiasts.

With a broad selection of award-winning wines and beautifully packaged gifts, Ampersand Wines ensures retailers have everything needed to meet the holiday demand for premium, celebratory drinks.

Also among the highlights is the Massey Dacta Sauvignon Blanc (€16), a vibrant New World white wine from New Zealand’s renowned Marlborough region, awarded a gold medal for the best New World White Wine under €20 With refreshing notes of lemon, lime, passionfruit, and lemongrass, this crisp Sauvignon Blanc offers excellent value at €16. Joining Massey Dacta are the two valuedriven, gold-star-winning wines, Parlez Vous Sauvignon Blanc (€9.99) and Antares Sauvignon Blanc (€9.99), both offering exceptional quality at an affordable price point. These wines promise crisp freshness

GIFT THIS CHRISTMAS

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

Boann Christmas Gift Guide 2024

Carefully crafted selections from Boann Distillery in Drogheda offer something special for every whiskey connoisseur and gin lover on your Christmas shopping list.

Boann Single Pot Still Irish Whiskeys (Marsala, Madeira, P.X.)

R.R.P €69.95 per bottle >>

Boann Distillery combines traditional brewing and distilling methods with modern techniques to create its distinctive whiskeys. In June 2024, the distillery released its first Single Pot Still Irish Whiskeys to the global market, offering three exceptional expressions: Marsala, Madeira, and P.X. Each whiskey was matured in a variety of casks, giving each its own unique flavour profile

Crafted using Boyne Valley well water and local grains, these whiskeys were made with the same spirit that won Best New Make and Young Spirit at the World Whiskies Awards in 2021. Bottled at 47% ABV with no added colour, each expression is presented in a bespoke package - an ideal gift for whiskey aficionados.

Available for €69.95 per 700ml bottle at Celtic Whiskey Shop, Molloys, McHughs, Sweeneys, Martins, Irish Malts, and other independent retailers, or directly from boanndistillery.ie/

Silks Irish Gin & Gift Pack

R.R.P €50 (gift pack), €42.95 (70cl bottle) Silks Irish Gin, crafted in small batches by Boann Distillery, offers a contemporary twist on classic gin. Created by mother-anddaughter beekeepers Sally-Anne and Marie Cooney, the gin features botanicals such as honey, apple blossom, and elderflower, all foraged from Boann’s own orchards. This results in a crisp gin with bright citrus notes and delicate floral aromas.

For the holiday season, a gift pack (€50) includes a 70cl bottle of Silks Irish Gin, two branded gin glasses, and a jigger, making it a perfect present for gin lovers. You can also purchase a single 70cl bottle for €42.95. Both are available for domestic and international shipping from boanndistillery.ie

West Cork Distillery

West Cork Whiskey began when three lifelong friends who took a chance and worked hard at it. They didn’t stop till they had built one of Ireland’s largest distilleries making some of Ireland’s best whiskey

It started in 2003 in the back room of one of the lads’ houses in Union Hall and now they have a team of 140 people from around the local area working with them.

It’s important to them that what they’re doing helps their community and leaves something for West Cork. They’re fiercely independent and have fought to stay that way Fought hard to keep the lights on too at times.

In more ways than one, they’re out on the edge there in West Cork, just south of the Golden Vale, they use only Irish barley, delivered every day. Maritime aging... yeah, they’ve a bit of that going on.

For them it’s about taste There are times when all you want is a glass of good whiskey That’s the whiskey they make.

The Whistler Trilogy Mini Pack

R.R.P €20

Looking for a great stocking filler? The Whistler Trilogy Mini Pack is an ideal introduction to Boann Distillery’s Whistler range This set includes three 50ml bottles: The Whistler Double Oaked Irish Whiskey, The Whistler Irish Honey Liqueur, and The Whistler Irish Cream Liqueur Each has been expertly crafted by Boann’s Head Distiller, Family Beekeeper, and Blender, celebrating the finest Irish whiskey, honey, and cream.

Beautifully packaged and ready for gifting, this trio is available for €20 from boanndistillery.ie

The Whistler P.X. I Love You

R.R.P €61

For the whiskey enthusiast on your list, Boann Distillery offers The Whistler P.X. I Love You Single Malt, a memorable gift aged in Pedro Ximenez (PX) sherry casks. This 100% malted barley whiskey is rich with notes of sherry, dried fruits, and brown sugar after its nine months of ageing.

The full Whistler range, including this expression, is available for purchase from boanndistillery.ie

Unmistakably Guinness

Come together this Christmas and share a perfect pint of Guinness 0.0, boasting the same great taste, quality and premium experience that people have come to expect from Guinness, just without the alcohol.

Whether it’s Christmas Day celebrations at home with family or meeting friends in the pub for a festive pint, Guinness 0.0 offers people more choice whether they chose to drink alcohol or not.

Guinness 0.0 gives people the opportunity to come together in moderation, wherever they choose to enjoy a smooth pint, with the non-alc stout available in 500ml can format in off-licences and supermarkets, as well as on draught in more than 1700 pubs across the country

They’re not like the big brands or the small crafty ones.

They’ve gotten to a place where it’s just about what goes in the bottle And people are starting to pick that up They’d never say they’re a better whiskey than anyone else’s. But they’re as good as the best of them.

The core range is made up of West Cork Bourbon Cask matured, Black cask and the new exciting Maritime range which sells out in outlets across the country especially for gifting because of its unique packaging.

The way people socialise continues to change both at home and in the pub, and Diageo has seen an almost 49% increase in Guinness 0.0 sales over the past year

Continuing its commitment to bring more choice, and with consumer demand for nonalc alternatives set to grow further, Diageo recently announced a €30 million investment into the production of Guinness 0.0 at St James’s Gate Launched just three years ago, Guinness 0.0 production at St James’s Gate will increase to 176 million pints a year for the domestic and international markets, almost doubling capacity

Guinness 0.0 is a stout that is unmistakably Guinness, just without the alcohol, featuring the dark, ruby red liquid and creamy head, hints of chocolate and coffee, smoothly balanced with bitter, sweet and roasted notes that Guinness is known for.

Crafted for company

Casamigos Tequila was born of a desire to craft a perfect tequila, a smooth tasting liquid that could be enjoyed without lime or salt. So Diageo did.

Casamigos’ Blanco has a smooth flavour profile that is both crisp and clean with hints of citrus, vanilla and agave, which makes it the perfect tequila for sipping neat or enjoyed in a range of exciting and premium cocktail serves.

The West Cork Single Malt Irish Whiskey family

Silks Irish Gin & Gift Pack

Boann Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey

Guinness 0.0

>>

Casamigos Tequila

Christmas Drinks CATEGORY FOCUS

Casamigos Tequila was always intended to be shared with family and friends, old and new. Diageo recommends enjoying the tequila by trying a Paloma. Its Paloma cocktail serve is made by adding 35ml of Casamigos Blanco with 120ml of Grapefruit Soda and 10ml of Lime Juice to a highball glass over ice, garnished with a grapefruit wedge

Adding touch of elegance to every occasion

Celebrate this festive season with the unmistakable sophistication of Tanqueray No.TEN - a brand with nearly two centuries of craftsmanship and the iconic choice for those seeking premium gin. Whether enjoying

premium choice of the Tanqueray range, an absolute staple this festive season for those looking for an elevated serve and something extra special.

Christmas Day at home with family or gathering with friends for a stylish toast, Tanqueray No TEN adds a touch of elegance to every occasion.

Tanqueray No.TEN sets the standard as the first ultra-premium gin. Distilled in small batches with the four original botanicals of Tanqueray London Dry and the addition of fresh whole grapefruits, oranges, limes and chamomile flowers, Tanqueray No.TEN brings an explosion of fresh citrus with every sip Tanqueray No.TEN has been granted several industry accolades and is the only Gin and white spirit that has been awarded a place in the Hall of Fame at the San Francisco Spirits Awards. The smooth & delicious taste of Tanqueray No.TEN makes it the unmistakable

For a festive treat, indulge in a Tanqueray Tiny Ten cocktail. Combine 30ml of Tanqueray No TEN with 30ml of grapefruit cordial in a mixing glass, fill with ice, and stir to chill. Strain into a coupette glass, top with 50ml of sparkling wine for an effervescent finish, and garnish with a grapefruit peel to release its fresh citrus oil. Oozing with freshness, rounded essential oils and deliciously bittersweet with a deep citrus heart, this simple but sophisticated martini cocktail is the perfect serve for hosting at home

This holiday season, Tanqueray No TEN makes hosting effortless, creating an elevated experience for those seeking something truly special. Available in stores and select locations nationwide, visit www.tanqueray.com to learn more.

A perfect choice for Christmas gatherings

With the holiday season fast approaching, many are looking for festive alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages, and this Christmas, Santa Rita is offering a great solution for those who wish to enjoy the taste of wine without the alcohol. Awarded Best

60 CATEGORY FOCUS Christmas Drinks

>>

Non-Alcoholic White and Red under €15.00 at the NOffLA Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2024-25, Santa Rita’s 0% Alcohol wines have been recognised as the perfect option for all to enjoy, from family dinners to festive celebrations.

Award-winning taste, without the alcohol

Santa Rita’s 120 De-Alcoholised Cabernet Sauvignon (2021) and 120 De-Alcoholised Sauvignon Blanc (2023) are part of a growing trend of high-quality, non-alcoholic wines that maintain the taste, sophistication, and enjoyment of traditional wines. These wines are available at SuperValu, Dunnes and Spar for €7.00, making them a smart choice for the health-conscious and an affordable option for all wine lovers this festive season.

deep ruby red in colour, with flavours of blueberry, plum and cassis on the palate 20% of the wine spent 4 months in French oak, enhancing the final sweetness and complexity

Santa Rita 120 Coastal Sauvignon Blanc

gathering. For sales enquiries, please contact SHS Sales & Marketing at +353 (1) 401 6200 or info@shs-sales.ie

McGuigan

McGuigan wines continue to outperform the market as the number one Australian Wine brand in Ireland.

Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner, attending a party, or simply seeking a thoughtful gift for loved ones, Santa Rita’s 0% alcohol range offers the rich flavours of their renowned vineyards without the alcohol. This makes them ideal for designated drivers, expectant mothers, or anyone opting for a healthier, alcoholfree celebration.

Health-conscious choices for modern lifestyles

With growing interest in health-conscious consumption, Santa Rita’s de-alcoholised wines are a testament to the evolution of modern winemaking. These wines are crafted with care, ensuring that the process of removing alcohol does not compromise their vibrant flavours. The 120 De-Alcoholised Cabernet Sauvignon offers notes of ripe berries and soft tannins, while the 120 De-Alcoholised Sauvignon Blanc delivers refreshing citrus and tropical fruit characteristics, perfect for complementing festive dishes.

A thoughtful gift this Christmas

Santa Rita’s 0% alcohol wines are ideal gifts this season, offering an inclusive option for all.

The Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2024-2025 recognises these wines as part of their elite collection, marking them with distinctive Award symbols that make it easy to identify in stores.

“We’re proud to see our de-alcoholised wines recognised at this year’s Irish Wine Show Star Awards,” said Terry Pennington, spokesperson for Santa Rita.

“Our 0% alcohol wines provide a sophisticated and enjoyable alternative for anyone looking to celebrate this Christmas without the alcohol, and we’re excited to offer a premium non-alcoholic option that stands out in quality and taste.”

Available Nationwide for €7.00 in Dunnes, Spar and SuperValu.

Santa Rita 120 Deep Red

A warming blend of 65% Cabernet Franc, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Carmenère, sourced from our vineyards in both our coastal ranges and foothills of the Andes. The wine is

Recent Red C Consumer Research indicates that 81% of the wine-drinking population in Ireland is choosing white wines over red wines, with Sauvignon Blanc being the most common choice.

With this in mind, Santa Rita is in the process of launching into the market (due on shelf in the next month or so) a new Santa Rita 120 Coastal Sauvignon Blanc. 85% of the grapes are sourced from Casablanca, with the remaining 15% from Leyda. The wine is fresh and herbaceous in style, with attractive citrus notes.

Raise a glass to WKD this festive season

WKD introduces its new range of 15% ABV vodkabased liqueurs just in time for the holiday season. WKD Vibe, available in 500ml bottles, offers a lineup of innovative creamy and clear flavours to cater to varied consumer tastes. This versatile range can be enjoyed straight, layered for unique shot creations, or added to cocktails to elevate festive recipes.

The WKD Vibe lineup includes Baby G Creamy, Pina Colada Creamy, Strawberry Creamy, Blue Raspberry Creamy, Blue Raspberry Clear, and Tropical Clear

In addition, WKD’s classic core range continues to deliver with six fruity flavours. Available in 250ml cans, 275ml and 700ml bottles, the core flavour lineup consists of WKD Blue, WKD Iron Brew, WKD Ice, WKD Berry Blast, WKD Purple Grape and WKD Orange and Passionfruit. These sparkling vodka-based drinks are ideal for festivethemed sharing cocktails or as a stand-alone refreshment.

Recognised as Ireland’s leading RTD, WKD brings a vibrant touch to every holiday

The Black Label range comprises of a Cabernet, Shiraz, Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Rose and Malbec. McGuigan show its innovation having introduced McGuigan Frizzante to the market this is a light style of sparkling full of lively yet delicate bubbles that give a crisp and refreshing sparkle

The latest addition to the McGuigan

McGuigan’s Black Label selection

Portfolio is McGuigan ZERO Unrivalled taste, zero alcohol – for everyone, everywhere. McGuigan Zero - a trailblazer in its category The range offers an unparalleled alcohol-free experience both on the nose and palate Launching with Shiraz, Chardonnay, Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc and Sparkling. McGuigan Zero is created using state-of-the-art spinning cone technology By drawing the wine into super fine layers for efficient vaporisation, alcohol may be removed at lower temperatures than ever before, thus resulting in a truly beautiful tasting product. McGuigan wines distributed by Barry & Fitzwilliam.

Graham Norton

Arguably Ireland’s favourite West Cork native, Graham Norton’s wine brand has reached Ireland’s top 20 wine brands this year The Graham Norton wine range is produced in collaboration with New Zealand’s Invivo and Graham Norton controls every aspect of the blending process for his wines, combining southern hemisphere grapes with ‘Norton Hemisphere’ brilliance to create a super range of six wines. Invivo was founded by two Kiwi wine entrepreneurs Tim Lightbourne and Rob Cameron in 2008. This year, 2023, Graham and Invivo will celebrate ten years of making award-winning wine together

Graham’s range includes his best-selling (and awarded) Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand joined by a wildly popular New Zealand Rosé, Graham Norton’s Shiraz from and the most recent addition to the range is an Argentinian Malbec named He-Devil after

The WKD range lineup

Santa Rita De Alcoholised Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Santa Rita 120 Reserva Especial Deep Red

120 Reserva Especial Coastal Sauvignon Blanc

Kylie Minogue

Kylie Minogue Wines is an exquisite, elegant portfolio of bespoke wines, crafted with passion and integrity Launched in 2020 on Kylie’s birthday, the 28 of May, the rosé quickly became one of the most successful launches in its category ever Kylie Minogue Wines has evolved into a worldwide phenomenon with a glass of Kylie Minogue Prosecco Rosé sold every six seconds.

Kylie Minogue Wines has sold nine million bottles since launch (that’s over 43 million glasses of Kylie Minogue Wine poured) and is available to purchase in 31 countries

Kylie Minogue now has five Rosés in her wine portfolio - Sparkling Prosecco Spumante, Sparkling Prosecco Frizzante, Cotes des Provence, Signature Rosé and Alcohol Free Sparkling Rosé

This Signature range comprises of two wines from France including the delicate pale-dry rosé made from Cabernet and Carignan grapes, a light and zesty Sauvignon Blanc from Gascony.

The latest addition is the delicious Prosecco Frizzante produced in the heart of Veneto on the picturesque hills of Gambellara. This wine is fresh and fragrant with a marked aromatic character rich in floral scents of acacia and wisteria flowers.

Rob Cameron

>> Graham’s memoirs “The Lives and Loves of a He-Devil”.

‘My He-Devil was created to turn heads, break hearts and leave you wanting more… and it’s delivered on all counts.’ says Graham Norton, Chief Winemaker

In relation to bubbles GN Frizzante Bianco and the GN Frizzante Rosé are wildly popular in Ireland.

Moving onto Spirits – Graham Norton’s Own Irish Gins celebrates Graham’s West Cork Heritage, the beauty and flavours of his idyllic native county and his award-winning flair for blending perfection.

Partnering with an Irish distillery was very important to Graham and that is why he decided to work with his West Cork neighbours - West Cork Distillers. West Cork Distillery is the most southerly located distillery on the Atlantic Archipelago – an area close to Graham’s West Cork retreat.

Graham – has three Gin’s in the portfolio: Graham Norton’s Own Irish Gin, Irish Pink Gin and Irish Marmalade Gin. The latest spirit addition is Graham Norton’s Own Irish Vodka –made from potatoes it is ridiculously smooth on the palate!

Christmas Drinks CATEGORY FOCUS

A little note from Kylie: “I am unbelievably humbled and thrilled by the global response to Kylie Minogue Wines. It has been incredible, and testimony to the amazing producers and winemakers Kylie Minogue Wines have been lucky enough to work alongside I have been incredibly touched by the joy our wines have brought to so many people.”

Kylie Minogue Wines proudly distributed by Barry & Fitzwilliam.

[source: Nielsen EPOS volume sales- Total UK Off Trade to 11th March 2023]

Graham Norton’s wine and spirits are proudly distributed by Barry & Fitzwilliam

Villa Maria

Vila Maria is Ireland’s number one New Zealand wine brand. Villa Maria’s extensive portfolio is one the most geographically and stylistically diverse and highly-awarded range of premium wines by any New Zealand producer, fuelling consumer adoration and success across the globe In Ireland we have the Private Bin range available most famously known for the Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, yet other varietals available such as Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Riesling and Pinot Noir Villa Maria wines have a fresh new look for the Private Bin range, don’t worry the wine is the same outstanding quality just in a new contemporary pack. The high tier Cellar Selection Pinot Noir and the Reserve Wairau Sauvignon Blanc are also available in the Irish Market.

The most recent launch from Villa Maria is the beautiful Sauvignon Blush, Sauvignon Blanc with a hint of Merlot. Delivering the taste experience of New Zealand’s favourite white wine with a playful fun-factor that opens up a whole new occasion for Sauvignon Blanc. It’s Sauvignon Blanc. 90% Sauvignon Blanc in fact, caressed with 10% Merlot for a beautiful ‘Provence-like’ blush. Looks like Rose, tastes like Sauvignon Blanc.

Villa Maria Wines are proudly distributed by Barry & Fitzwilliam.

Brewdog

The Eagle Has Landed.

Brewdog has launched its newest, most sessional IPA – Wingman.

When you’re looking for a complex, interesting and infinitely drinkable Session IPA, Wingman has your back. Citrus. Biscuity Fruity A maverick of a Session IPA, Wingman is a smooth ride of mellow tropical fruits, piney notes and sharp citrus aroma.

Refreshing, infinitely drinkable and with a steady boozing altitude of 4.3%, you’ll want to keep Wingman by your side all night long. Prepare ground control. Refreshment incoming.

Welcome Wingman to the stage, a session IPA that’s sure to be your new go-to.

But let’s not forget the iconic PUNK IPA. The beer that kick-started the BrewDog revolution. This scene-stealing flagship is an India Pale Ale that has become a byword for craft beer rebellion, synonymous with the insurgency against mass-produced, lowest common denominator beer Punk IPA charges the barricades to fly its colours from the ramparts – full-on, full-flavour; at full-throttle

Layered with new world hops to create an explosion of tropical fruit and an all-out riot of grapefruit, pineapple and lychee before a spiky bitter finish, this is the perfect drink to quench your thirst.

This 5.6% trans-atlantic fusion IPA is light golden in colour with tropical fruits and light caramel on the nose The palate soon becomes assertive and resinous with the New Zealand hops balanced by the biscuit malt. The finish is aggressive and dry with the hops emerging over the warming alcohol.

This fresh, full flavour natural beer is our tribute to the classic IPAs of yester-year The post modern twist is the addition of amazing fruity hops giving an explosion of tropical fruit flavours and a sharp bitter finish.

Brewdog is proudly distributed by Barry & Fitzwilliam. ■

Tim Lightbourne, Graham Norton and

Kylie Minogue holding with her White Prosecco

VillaMaria Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc

Wingman Session IPA 330ml can

Festive fizz

Soft drinks are essential to holiday celebrations in Ireland, as families stock up for festive meals and gatherings. Shauna Bernard reports

Irish folks hold soft drinks in high esteem during the festive season. A well-stocked supply is the unsung hero for those impromptu guests and family gatherings from Christmas to New Year’s Eve. As the holidays approach, families are gearing up for festive meals, creating a rising demand for a variety of beverages to complement their gatherings.

According to Straits Research, the global soft drinks market was valued at €200.3

Bring Home the Magic this Christmas

Coca-Cola invites consumers to Bring Home the Magic this Christmas as it launches its festive campaign

For Christmas 2024, Coca-Cola is lighting up the season with Real Magic, reminding us all that even the smallest act of Christmas Kindness can awaken the spirit of Santa in everyone

As the brand that brought Santa to life, Coca-Cola is once again turning festive kindness into a global movement, showing how a simple gesture can multiply and create Real Magic across the world.

This year’s Coca-Cola Christmas campaign will show consumers that kindness has the power to travel far and wide Once ignited, a single act can create a ripple effect. Whoever you are, if you have kindness inside you, then you have the spirit of Santa and a part to play in the real magic of Christmas.

In the spirit of giving, Coca-Cola is offering

billion in 2023 and is projected to reach €246.5 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 2.5% during the forecast period (2024–2032).

This year, shoppers are increasingly seeking options that cater to a wide range of tastes. From fizzy drinks to refreshing iced teas, these beverages are essential for making every occasion enjoyable, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together

with friends over the festive season.

Convenience stores and discount shops are popular destinations for those looking to stock up on holiday favourites. As families fill their fridges with festive beverages, the soft drinks aisle plays a key role in ensuring that each celebration is memorable This Christmas season, the right drinks will help create moments of joy and connection among loved ones.

Coca-Cola portfolio

a chance to win Cash prizes to bring real magic to Coca-Cola drinking moments.

Through an exciting on-pack promotion, consumers will have chances to win instant cash prizes along with entry into a weekly draw to win a large cash prize.

Running from 4 November until the end of December, this multi-faceted campaign will come to life through various touchpoints including TV, Video on Demand, Cinema, Radio, Out of Home, Experiential, PR, In-store theatre, and POS support.

Stock up on the festive promotional packs to offer your customers a chance to win.

Coca-Cola can’t wait to start celebrating the festive period and bringing out the inner Santa in all of us this Christmas!

‘Hero zero’

Building on its success from previous years Coca-Cola continued to ‘hero zero’ maintaining Coca-Cola Zero Sugar as the #1 zero sugar soft drink in Ireland, followed by Diet Coke with Coca-Cola Zero Sugar Zero Caffeine gaining popularity*. >>

>>

Coca-Cola also continued its commitment to sustainability and recognises the urgency consumers expect when it comes to the environment. Through World Without Waste, it continues to eliminate the need for 5,000 tonnes of new or unnecessary plastic on an annual basis.

In 2023, the Coca-Cola portfolio moved to a 100% recycled bottle significantly reducing the need for new or virgin plastic. Together with the introduction of the Deposit Return Scheme in Ireland, Coca-Cola are one step

closer to creating a true circular economy for plastic.

Coca-Cola was the first beverage provider to launch KeelClip, an innovative cardboard packaging solution for four, six and eight multipack cans and Q’Flex, a cardboard solution for larger multipack cans. In addition, Coca-Cola continues to lightweight its products annually, reducing the amount of plastic used throughout the Coca-Cola portfolio

Source: Nielsen GTC MAT April Value Share. For more information, visit ie.coca-colahellenic.com or Coca-Cola.ie

Innocent’s 12 acts of Christmas

Innocent is giving away 12 acts of service this Christmas from all the team at Fruit Spire, Dublin.

From the 1 December it will be giving away things like a make-your-own-smoothie class, some last-minute emergency presents, and of course lots of innocent socks.

Each prize is a little different and entries will have 24 hours to enter each one before the Innocent team randomly pick a winner

Innocent will post one act every day for the

Christmas FM sponsorship

Christmas FM, the much-loved radio station that ‘Switches Christmas On’ across Ireland every year, has announced that Coca Cola are on board again this year as one of the premier FM sponsors for the festive radio station.

Christmas FM began streaming on Friday, 1 November and will continue to be available across all online platforms through to New Year’s Eve.

Pepsi rolls-out new rebrand

Pepsi unveiled a complete rebrand in March, with exciting new pack designs for all formats rolling out across grocery, wholesale, licence, and convenience. The rebrand created a consistent identity across the Pepsi MAX®, diet, regular and flavoured cola ranges, with new packaging visuals, in-store materials and displays

The roll-out was supported by a fully integrated campaign, including TV, digital, out-of-home, in store branding and experiential marketing.

As Ireland’s fastest growing cola brand, this rebrand formed part of Pepsi’s vision to ensure long-term growth in the cola category Pepsi Max, a €28.5 million brand, continues to recruit more buyers into the cola category than any other brand. In a blind taste challenge, 66% of Irish people preferred the taste of Pepsi Max. The new design focuses on great taste and refreshment, aligning with research showing that taste is a key driver for carbonated soft drinks. By modernising its flagship Pepsi brand with bolder, more vibrant packaging, this refresh helps retailers capitalise on sales amid evolving consumer tastes, in particular the no sugar category has grown by over 13% in 2023.

The vibrant new look will grab attention at shelf, playing a key role in enticing new consumers into the category This rebrand will help retailers maximise sales by sparking a renewed interest in the brand. Pepsi and Pepsi MAX are well-known and loved by many, but as a brand with such a rich history, it’s vital that Pepsi work to evolve its look and feel, driving relevance for the next generation.

next 12 days across Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X (formerly known as Twitter).

So, be sure to check each of the aforementioned social media platforms.

And what’s the first prize we hear you ask?

An innocent Christmas storybook written just for you.

Liquid Death turns world of bottled water into a ‘lively experience’

Liquid Death has made an unexpected, yet powerful entrance into Ireland’s beverage

market, bringing a refreshing twist to the way consumers view bottled water.

Sourced straight from the Austrian Alps, its rebellious, tongue-in-cheek branding has turned the traditionally “serious” world of bottled water into a lively experience.

The brand has recently been making waves across major Irish retailers like Dunnes Stores, SuperValu, Centra, BWG, where it offers both still, sparkling and flavored sparkling mountain water which appeal to health-conscious consumers, while providing a fun, unconventional experience.

Beyond appearances, the brand walks the

season fIzz the se

walk on environmental impact. The company donates a portion of profits to combat plastic pollution and has embraced fully recyclable aluminum cans, which has resonated with eco-conscious buyers across Ireland.

What sets Liquid Death apart is its unique approach to marketing. Viral campaigns and collaborations with influencers and unconventional partners, has seen Liquid Death build a dedicated fan base in Ireland appealing to a wide demographic which is growing exponentially by the day.

As one of the world’s fastest-growing beverage brands, Liquid Death’s future in the Irish market looks incredibly promising. With a $1.4 billion valuation and a top three ranking in global beverage followings. This success underscores Liquid Death’s ability to connect with consumers in fresh, bold ways while remaining rooted in purpose-driven values.

Its unique blend of humor, sustainability, and high-quality hydration has established a loyal following that’s only set to expand.

Liquid Death is proudly distributed in Ireland by www.unifybands.ie

Celsius Energy Drinks set to expand its presence in Ireland

The vision of Celsius

Celsius aspires to be the global leader within the Energy Drinks Segment.

Consumers are increasingly looking for modern energy options and traditional; solutions are perceived to be unhealthy and performance enhancing only This will make brands with better functional (cleaner and healthier) and emotional (supporting a wellness lifestyle) benefits a mainstream segment of the global energy drink category

Celsius is not your average energy drink. Celsius notes that it provides essential energy

Celsius is functional energy, made with premium and proven ingredients. It will keep consumers fueled and active all day for their live fit lifestyle

Celsius is packed with seven vitamins including vitamin C, and green tea extract & caffeine to reduce tiredness and fatigue and contains zero sugar, no artificial colours or flavours.

Celsius has four essential energy flavours:

• Fantasy Vibe – Sparkling Orange flavour

• Peach Vibe – White Peach flavour

• Sunset Vibe – Mango Passion Fruit flavour

• Cosmic Vibe – Fruit burst flavour

Celsius was created for ‘Gen Z and their endless desires for experience and connections.’

So, who is the core consumer for Celsius?

• They go to the gym three-five times per week

• They like to stay ahead of trends

• Spend five-six hours on their phone

• Enjoys healthy foods

• Has a broad range of interests

• Enjoys time with their friends

• Cares about the environment and are very much about life experiences.

Global Trends: Consumers are looking for their energy drinks to provide benefits and functionality other than just an energy boost. Globally, 50% of consumers have increased their energy drink consumption. With a growing anti sugar sentiment, 31% of consumers are purchasing items more tailored to their health.

Celsius has already taken the Energy drink category by storm in the United States.

According to Celsius it is the No 3 USA energy brand and the No.1 USA energy growth brand.

Celsius sales* have grown exponentially over the past five years and in 2024 the brand held 40% share of category growth.

Here in Europe Celsius says that it is winning in Sweden, growing incrementally ahead of

the category According to Celsius it is now the No.1 category growth driver and has now overtaken Monster.

The brand Launched across UK and Ireland, Celsius has ‘big plans’ to grow the Energy drinks category Celsius is the future of Energy drinks.

To support the brand in Ireland,Celsius has a vast number of influencers across sports, fitness and lifestyle

One key partnership that Celsius will bring to the fore in 2025 is its official partnership with Ferrari Formula 1 Racing and Ferrari Driver Charles LeClerc. Celsius says that it will leverage this partnership (among all its other global and local influencers!) across social and digital channels and will be activated in–store across Ireland in 2025.

Celsius is currently widely available in Ireland.

*Source: CIRCANA TTLUS MULO+&C ENDING SEPT 15 2024

Celsius’ four essential energy flavours

Packing a Winter Spiced Punch

Share the moment this festive season and stock up on the ultimate Christmas staple, Shloer Nothing says Christmas quite like it and this year Shloer are expecting its biggest Christmas ever so don’t miss out!

Created from a blend of the finest grape juices, deliciously refreshing Shloer has been trusted by generations to provide a delicious alcohol alternative that looks, feels and tastes special. Whether it’s a festive get-together with friends or a Christmas dinner with family, our sparkling grape range adds a touch of sparkle to every social occasion.

And just in time for Christmas, White Grape & Apple is back by popular demand with a fancy new look but the same delicious taste Ireland asked and Schloer listened, making the return even sweeter Created with juicy apple and grape flavours, it is the perfect way to add sparkle to sharing occasions over the festive period.

Finally, don’t miss Shloer’s limited edition flavour, Winter Spiced Punch. A blend of red grapes with notes of cinnamon and apple Spice up your consumers’ winter and indulge them in this warm and comforting flavour today.

For sales enquiries, please contact SHS Sales & Marketing at +353 (1) 401 6200 or info@shs-sales.ie

Vitamins and more

Introducing ’Vitamins and more’ a new vitamin and protein concept from Avonmore

A new delicious low-calorie blend of water, juice and tea. It’s a refreshing drink with benefits –immunity, energy and protein. Each 330ml serving contains only 34 calories, high in whey protein and delivers a range of vitamins and minerals including Vitamins B, C, D and zinc.

• Immunity support: Vitamin C contributes to normal function of the immune system.

• Energy release: Vitamin B12 contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism.

• High in protein: Protein contributes to the growth and maintenance of muscle mass.

This drink can be enjoyed any time of the day as a refreshing thirst quencher or a meal accompaniment. It is packaged in a recyclable mainly paper based carton sourced from responsibly managed forests. Vitamins and More is an exciting innovation for Tirlán’s as it represents a step out of the dairy category for the Avonmore brand into the functional water space. Capitalising on the trends of functional health and well-being the product is a new to the market vitamin water which uses protein as a key differentiator.

The product is now available in SuperValu, Centra and Spar stores with more to follow.

Red Bull unveils limited winter edition Iced Vanilla Berry

The temperature is getting colder and the air brisk, but the fun is just getting started as Ireland looks forward to Red Bull unveiling this year’s Red Bull Winter Edition, Iced Vanilla Berry, available for a limited time only from November

Whatever is on your winter adventure bucket list, discovering a new Red Bull Winter Edition is a fun way to find your wiiings. This year’s Red Bull Winter Edition serves up the taste of blueberry and vanilla with icy-fresh notes of eucalyptus, and is available in ice blue–coloured, 250ml cans.

Available in over 170 countries worldwide, Red Bull’s expanding range of editions and beyond the ordinary marketing strategy continues to wing its way into Irish consumers’ hearts, minds and shopping baskets.

Founded in 1987, Red Bull established the energy drinks category, promising to vitalize body and mind and has since seen over 100 billion cans of Red Bull Energy Drink consumed.

Red Bull Sugar Free and Red Bull Pink Edition (Forest Fruits) serve the no sugar category trend, while ApricotStrawberry, Curuba-Elderflower, Juneberry, Tropical, Watermelon and the brand-new Red Bull Winter Edition (Iced Vanilla Berry) provide wings for every taste

Giving wings to people and ideas, Red Bull is a proud supporter of Irish athletes including hockey goalkeeper Ayeisha McFerran, gymnast Rhys McLeneghan, surfer Conor Maguire, downhill mountain bikers Greg Callaghan and Ronan Dunne, drifter Conor Shanahan and rugby player Mack Hansen.

For more inspiring content, visit: www.redbull.ie or follow @ RedBullIre on Instagram and Tik-Tok. ■

Red Bull Energy Drink

Iced Vanilla Berry

French Champion Awards

The French Champion Awards took place at the leading trade tasting dedicated to French wines on 22 October, Tastin’France, in Dublin.

Organised by Business France, the French government trade agency, the French Champion awards were created to recognise the contribution of the Irish wine trade in raising the profile of French wine on the Irish market, across four categories: Best importer for France; Best supermarket for France; Best independent retailer for France and Best restaurant for France.

‘Embrace the darkness’

Well-known faces came out last night to attend the Lindt Excellence ‘Embrace the darkness” event which took place in Smock Alley Theatre, last month.

Guests were treated to a masterclass in dark chocolate from Stefan Bruderer, the Lindt

master chocolatier who flew over in from the brand’s headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland for the event.

The attendees were treated to a wine and chocolate pairing and tasting session, and then a blind taste test where everyone had to

guess which percentage dark chocolate they were eating, ranging from 70% all the way up to 99%!

A string quartet finished the night with a stunning performance by candlelight!

Wine expert at Tastin’ France

Master Sommelier, Julie Dupouy, was joined by Céline Place, French Ambassador to Ireland and Henri Baissas, managing director Business France UK & Ireland to present the awards

French wine exhibitors at Tastin’France

Attendees enjoying Tastin’ France

Linda Maher and Debbie O Donnell

Sarah Jane Keddy and Daisy Barry

Aisling Grennan and Orla Drumgoole

Jay Kavanagh and Adam Fogarty

Global launch of the Hennessy Founder’s Edition Bottle

In celebration of this historic moment for Hennessy, the brand hosted a party on the 22 October in The Round Room at the Mansion House, Dublin to toast the occasion and honour Irish art, music, culture, and the rich Irish legacy that Hennessy holds close to its heart. This event was hosted by DJ and presenter, Tara Kumar who interviewed Conor Harrington and Maser, exploring their creative process and the magnitude of this pivotal point in the Hennessy Ireland story

Guests enjoyed expertly crafted Hennessy cocktails paired with gourmet food while Ireland’s top DJs provide the tunes to exciting experiential and immersive offerings.

Irish artists Maser and Conor Harrington were selected to create its historic Founder’s Edition bottle, celebrating the 300th anniversary of the birth of its Irish founder, Richard Hennessy

Celebrating Christmas with Boots

Boots Ireland’s Annual Christmas Showcase celebrated the magic of the holiday season by revealing an enchanting collection of festive gifts.

The event gathered beauty journalists and influencers at the Irish Georgian Society to highlight the spirit of giving, sustainability, and the importance of supporting Irish brands during Christmas.

Celebrating 35 years!

Cuisine de France are celebrating their 35th anniversary this year and they kicked off the celebrations in Café en Seine on Dawson Street in Dublin with a party for members of

the trade, suppliers and staff Guests were greeted on arrival with a champagne reception, followed by canapés and super bowls. ■

Anita Blackwell and Hazel Rogers

Aisling O’Toole and Elaine Crowley

Azaria McCormack and Laura Mellor

Seamus Griffin, Dave Bridget Griffin Group and David Field and Noel Smyth Fresh Group

Shane Vaughan, Lily Guerin and Sue Reilly from Cuisine de France

Conor Harrinton, Tara Kumar and Maser

Andy O’Hara, Céline Place, Ambassadordesignate of France and Maurice Hennessy

Will Hayes and Adam Costigan

Wes Gonsalves and Sorcha Finn

72 MARKET MOVERS

Green Isle Nerds

Green Isle relaunches frozen chips range with new look

Green Isle has announced the relaunch of its frozen chips range with a new brand identity and exciting extra crispy innovation.

Driven by extensive consumer research, Green Isle discovered that today’s shoppers are looking for a superior eating experience when it comes to frozen chips.

Mairéad Walsh, marketing manager Green Isle said: “We listened to what consumers really wanted from their chips: a more satisfying, restaurant-quality, deliciously extra crispy chip, using breakthrough technology, our new Extra Crispy range ensures that your chips stay deliciously crispy long after they come out of the oven or air fryer.”

The two products currently available in the range are Extra Crispy French fries and Extra Crispy Crinkle chips. Each pack retails at €4.50 Find them in the freezer aisle

Huel, the leading provider of nutritionally complete food, has announced its official launch in Ireland.

With its mission to make nutrition simple, affordable, and accessible, Huel offers a range of convenient, healthy meal solutions that are not only good for you but also kind to the planet.

Huel (Human + Fuel) is a nutritionally complete food.

Approaching nutrition

Huel is transforming the way people approach nutrition.

Huel meals contain a balance of 27 essential vitamins and minerals, protein, essential fats, carbs, fibre and phytonutrients in a single product.

Huel is made from plant-based sustainable ingredients like oats, peas, rice, flaxseed, coconut, and sunflower, contains no lactose and is glutenfree, making it suitable for most to enjoy.

Each Huel bottle contains 400 calories high-quality complex carbohydrates that release energy slowly and helps keep you full and your digestive system healthy.

Ready-to-drink

Huel ready-to-drink has a deliciously smooth texture, and it currently comes in five flavours:

• Chocolate

• Vanilla

• Berry

• Banana

• Iced Coffee Caramel

Huel is more than just food; it’s a movement towards a healthier, more balanced way of living.

By offering flexible, on-the-go meal solutions, Huel empowers consumers to take control of their nutrition without the need for complicated meal prep or fast food alternatives.

Nerds Gummy Clusters arrive in Ireland bringing a new candy experience

Unleash your senses with Nerds Gummy Clusters as the iconic US candy makes its debut in Ireland

Nerds fans all across Ireland will be thrilled to hear that the hugely popular sweet brand’s iconic product, Nerds Gummy Clusters, will be hitting shelves nationwide in the coming weeks.

Nerds Gummy Clusters combine the popular texture of gummy sweets with a coating of tangy and crunchy Nerds, delivering a multi-sensorial experience, which has amassed a cult-like following in the US since it launched in 2022.

With Nerds Gummy Clusters, you can enjoy two flavour varieties, Fruits or Berries, in a single serve 45g bag, perfect for that on-the-go treat or a 113g sharing bag, ideal for fun times with friends, parties or movie nights in.

KitKat becomes the official chocolate bar of Formula 1

Nestlé and Formula 1 have announced a landmark partnership, making KitKat the Official Chocolate Bar of Formula 1. This multi-year collaboration is Nestlé’s largest global brand partnership to date, signaling a major step for the chocolate maker and for one of consumers’ favorite chocolate bar brands.

The collaboration will officially launch during the 2025 season, marking the 90th anniversary of KitKat and the 75th anniversary of Formula 1. It will then expand across the world throughout 2026. F1 enthusiasts can look forward to consumer activations, promotional prizes and immersive fan zones at select Grands Prix, with trackside branding, and cheerful, light-hearted content.

Emily Prazer, chief commercial officer at Formula 1, said: “We’re delighted to have such a universally recognised and fun brand as KitKat joining us as a partner They’re universally loved, and we can’t wait to see the fantastic experiences they’ll be bringing to our fans at the track and the new audiences they’ll introduce to the sport.” ■

Green Isle French Fries Extra Crispy

Nerds Candy Sweets Fruits Sharing Box

Green Isle Crinkle Chips Extra Crispy

Nerds Fruits and Berry Flavour Packs

Huel

www.noffla.ie

Discovering-Pasqua

Phyllis Monaghan, off-licence manager at The Coach House Off-Licence explains how a trip to Italy’s wine country inspired her to bring two exceptional wines into the spotlight

As the summer draws to a close and the dark nights are fast approaching, many of us are lamenting our sneaky midweek glasses of wine while the kids are asleep I was lucky enough to be able to take that savoured memory a step further, leaving my children in the less capable hands of their father and exploring the beautiful vineyards of Veneto, Italy

The Pasqua family were generous enough to invite myself and friends in the trade over to explore their vineyards and sample some of their fabulous wines. Through the years Pasqua’s quality and recognisable brand has led them to become a staple in our local area, seeing how they produce their wines and conduct themselves, this comes as little surprise

Upon arriving we were greeted by their warm staff, behind whom was row after row of vines which seemed to meander and disappear into the faraway Dolomite mountains. The days that followed were a wine lovers dream, the best of wine, the best of food and most importantly the best of company.

Returning home with the opportunity to write a piece for ShelfLife, I could think of nothing else I would rather write about. So,

with that I would like to introduce to you two wines from Pasqua that need to be talked about more.

As the darkness of Autumn sets in, we move away from light whites and into deep, bold reds. With so many on the market it can be overwhelming, but Pasqua’s Zin Primitivo is a standout on these colder nights. Plum and Cherry notes on the nose serve as a tease of what’s to come, a silky full-bodied red with hints of black pepper and vanilla, it pairs well with red meat and rich tomato dishes.

As the seasons change, many move away from the crisp and refreshing nature of white wine and into the warmth of red. Others, less so To our headstrong white drinkers, we have a solution. I’d encourage you to move away from Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio instead opting for something with a richer, almost waxy texture. Pasqua’s DLZ Idealysta, a beautiful Chardonnay-Fiano blend, is a new addition to an already large catalogue from the winemaker Its ripe notes of lemon, peach and orange and its rich texture provide a wonderful match to creamy chicken dishes and risottos.

I associate these wines with good times and happy memories. Hopefully, these wines will provide a basis for you to create your own memories with them.

Phyllis Monaghan

Dinner and wine tasting at the Pasqua vineyards

Phyllis Monaghan, off-licence manager, The Coach House Off-Licence

Selection of Pasqua wines

Ger Daly and Phyllis Monaghan at the Pasqua vineyards

QUICK QUESTIONS WITH KATHRYN MASON managing director, Masonry PR

Kathryn Mason, managing director of Masonry PR, boasts a career spanning over 35 years. Throughout her extensive career, she has gained valuable experience in the music industry as well as with clients in the drinks industry, retail sector, and radio and podcasting. Additionally, she has worked as a publicist for various television shows and films.

1. Best series you recently watched on a streaming platform?

Nobody Wants This, a proper grown-up rom com on Netflix that really just perfect.

2. Best place for coffee?

Any Alpine café while skiing that serves good coffee and amazing views!

3. Top movie recommendation?

Loved Thelma and Kneecap this year so far plus The Outrun is Saoirse Ronan at her best!

4. Top book recommendation?

From 2024 ‘How to End a Love Story’ by Yulin Kuang – Reece knows her books and this was a great recommendation.

5. Which social media platform do you use most? Instagram, Instagram, Instagram...get my drift!

6. Which three well-known celebrities (living or dead) would you invite to your dinner party?

From the music world - I’d love to sit with David Bowie and chat. I was lucky to work with him back in the early 90’s and he made me star struck. He was incredibly nice to me, such a pro and utterly charismatic.

From the movie world - Fred Astaire, I adore all the musical films he was in... would love to talk about how they all came together in a day and age of a very different industry to how it would be today. Last guest needs to come from comedy to keep us laughing, one of my favourite things! I’d choose Sam Morril. He’s a new find for me and his irreverent comedy mixed with David and Fred... well that would be a night!

7. Best advert on TV?

Is it wrong to admit I’ve the ad skip package on sky...whoops!

8. Worst advert on TV?

Don’t like to be negative but Redclick Insurance would be up there when I do see the ads.

9. Favourite grocery shop?

Dunnes Stores all the way, the best ranges, stocking and prices.

Kathryn Mason, managing director, Masonry PR

10. If you had to live in another country, where would you choose?

I have a little place in France which I love to escape to but with some work directions I’m heading in the States is very appealing...

11. Greatest achievement to date?

My career so far has been filled with so many, I am a very lucky lady – launching Westlife in Ireland before anywhere, working on Popstars Ireland TV show, elevating brands such as The Powerscourt Distillery and recently working with a UK team on Spencer Matthews 30 in 30 marathon challenge... the list is long, I’ve a lot to be grateful for.

12. Do you prefer working from home or in the office/ on-site?

I like a good mix of all but probably on-site with a client is my favourite office.

13. Best piece of advice you ever received?

Always have a pen and notebook going to a meeting, still my trusty Moleskine is surgically attached to me.

14. Biggest fear?

Snakes, can’t even look at a picture of one

15. City or beach break?

Can we not have a ski break?

16. Top restaurant recommendation?

Biased (client) but the food at Mermaid & Bresson in Monkstown never lets me down.

17. Who is the last artist/group you saw live?

I’m on gig 20+ this year with work but I had the immense joy of finally seeing Coldplay live this year as a fan and they were every bit as amazing as I’d hoped!

18. Apart from your own, what brand do you admire most?

Apple keep the tone, sentiment and brand always at the centre. I think I should be sponsored by them judging by my loyalty and the fact I own six apple devices!

19. Best customer service you ever received? Monart in Wexford, they really are the standard every time I’ve been and never fail to impress.

20. What’s the last compliment you received?

PR can be a lot of thankless work so it’s always lovely when a client sends a note out of the blue...you know who you are. ■