Retail News December/January 2025

As we close off on the year, retailers across the country are entering their busiest sales period, embracing the festive spirit through emotional storytelling, festive advertising strategies and exclusive discounts. This year, there’s a significant shift towards promoting sustainable and eco-friendly products. The recent Impact Ireland 2024 Conference, hosted by POPAI UK & Ireland, provided top class advice on implementing best in class practices for sustainability, no matter where you are on your sustainability journey (Page 24).

Also inside, we report from the IGBF Christmas Lunch, one of the social highlights of the year (Page 14), and reveal the winners of the Edward Dillon & Santa Rita Estates SuperValu Off Licence of the Year Awards (Page 20), while our annual Retail Groups Report (Page 31-57) sees the main players in Ireland’s grocery industry reflect on the last 12 months and look forward to the new year.

As we look towards 2025, Retail News remains committed to helping you connect with your customers through impactful, creative advertising solutions. We are excited about the possibilities 2025 holds, and we're eager to continue supporting your growth in the new year.

Finally, I’d like to thank you all for your continued support of Retail News and most importantly your business. I’d like to wish you all a merry Christmas and a prosperous new year.

Gach rath ort amach anseo.

Brian Clark

Advertising & Marketing Director, Retail News

2 Laying down the law: grocery wishlists for 2025.

3 Charitable trust makes major donation to IGBF. 4 FSAI unveils new five-year strategy. 5 Rising costs a major concern for foodservice.

6 Biggest sales month so far for grocers; Gluten Free Christmas Hub from Dunnes.

7 Good Food Ireland winners announced; Tesco announce €14 million investment in benefits.

IGBF Christmas Lunch

14 The 2024 IGBF Christmas Lunch honoured the legacy of two retiring giants of the Irish grocery industry, while raising money for this most worthwhile of charities.

Ishka Irish Spring Water

17 Ishka Irish Spring Water was one of the big winners at the 2024 British Bottlers Institute Competition.

GS1 Ireland

Hale Vaping

22 Peak is a new range of nicotine pouches in four flavours.

Impact Ireland Conference

24 The stellar speaker line-up at the Impact Ireland 2024 Conference, hosted by POPAI UK & Ireland, featured practical sustainability advice for all FMCG businesses.

Nordic Spirit

28 Nordic Spirit is launching a new limited edition Forest Berries flavour just in time for winter.

Retail Groups Report

31 2024 in Retailing: Ireland’s leading retail groups report on a busy but challenging year.

Trends for 2025

58 The top five consumer trends to be aware of for 2025, as identified by Euromonitor International.

On the Vine

62 Jean Smullen looks back over the year in the Irish wine trade.

18 The transition to GS1 QR codes will bring the barcode into the digital age, offering unprecedented capabilities for data capacity and consumer interaction, writes Maria Svejdar, Head of Retail, GS1 Ireland.

SuperValu Off Licence of the Year

20 Four SuperValu stores won top awards at the Edward Dillon & Santa Rita Estates SuperValu Off Licence of the Year Awards.

Employment Law

64 Some of the key developments in Irish employment law over the last 12 months and what employers should look out for in 2025.

Forecourt Focus: Maxol

68 Maxol have announced their 2023 trading figures, and forecast a strong 2024, following a €65 million investment programme.

Merry Christmas

Laying down the law

RETAIL representatives have called on the new government to push through a Defamation Bill that will prevent “spurious and opportunistic claims” against retailers. The Bill, which proposes wide-ranging reforms to libel laws, was introduced to the Oireachtas in summer 2024 and is partly aimed to protect retailers who face costly defamation actions. There has been a reported rise in retailers taken to court after asking customers for proof of purchase or refusing to accept banknotes they suspect are not legal tender.

“The legal system needs to provide extra support for businesses,” said Arnold Dillon, Director of Retail Ireland. “They need to have a stronger defence when it comes to those spurious claims. The law would provide a statutory defence for retail defamation. This is a matter we will be picking up with the next government.”

Tara Buckley, Director General of RGDATA, agreed: “We need the Defamation Bill to be passed. A customer can take a retailer to court over a polite inquiry. We need that piece of legislation, which was being considered before the Dail dissolved [in November, 2024], to go through in an amended format.”

The Defamation Bill is one item on the calendar for retailers in 2025, a year in which Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael are likely to call the shots once again. Retail organisations are calling on the new government to understand the challenges facing local shops. A spokesperson for NOffLA urged the new government “to prioritise support for small, independent businesses across Ireland, including the specialist off-licences that serve as vital pillars of their communities. With a new administration in place, we are eager to see decisive action on issues that directly impact our members and the communities they support.”

Chief among NOffLA’s concerns for 2025 are the introduction of mandatory alcohol labelling regulations, which will state the calorie content and grams of alcohol in products. NOffLA wants government “to work closely with stakeholders to ensure the regulations are practical, proportionate, and avoid placing an undue burden on independent retailers.” They also wish to delay the implementation of these regulations from their proposed kick-off date in May 2026 “to allow the European Commission to legislate for alcohol labelling on an EU-wide basis. This would prevent Irish businesses from being placed at a competitive disadvantage compared to their European counterparts.”

Retailers have a more immediate challenge in the increase of the minimum wage to €13.50 in January. According to the recent Grocery Retail Salary Guide 2025 from Excel Recruitment, the minimum wage has risen by 32% since 2020, causing a ripple effect in overall wages. “For every one person on the minimum wage, there are four or five others who expect to be treated accordingly,” said Vincent Jennings, CEO, CSNA. “They expect the variation to be maintained.”

The delay in pension auto-enrolment and a pause in the roll-out of statutory sick pay have been welcomed but the cost of doing business remains “frighteningly high” added Jennings, who also maintains that “the cost of rates is still unfair due to an antiquated style of valuation.”

BWG Foods will “keep advocating strongly on behalf of retailers… in order to address the cumulative and rising costs of doing business,” according to Daniel O’Connell, Retail Director, BWG Foods. “Meanwhile, profitability remains a major priority for us and we will be working

closely with our retailers on further reducing costs, while driving continued growth and success across the sector.”

Fianna Fáil, in their election manifesto, pledged to introduce a “successor” to the Increased Cost of Doing Business and Power Up grants for retailers struggling with energy costs. The party also vowed to establish a Cost of Business Advisory Forum and put aside a €300 million fund for businesses in towns and villages.

Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael both proposed changes to the rate of employers’ PRSI for minimum wage workers.

Arnold Dillon of Retail Ireland described 2024 as a “steady year for retail” but believes there is a hangover from the period of high inflation: “Consumer sentiment probably isn't back to where it should be in the context of the wider economic outlook. In general, we would love to see a lifting of the consumer mood.”

The cost of insurance is still high, despite reforms. “Premiums have not come down in the way that they should have, given the changes in terms of the recommended awards and the work the Personal Injuries Resolution Board is doing in that area,” Arnold Dillon noted. “There have been a number of significant findings and legal cases this year. We think there are enormous grounds and a basis for the premiums to come down further and it’s

Arnold Dillon, Director of Retail Ireland.

Tara Buckley, Director General of RGDATA.

for 2025

Daniel O’Connell, Retail Director, BWG Foods.

frustrating and disappointing that it hasn't happened.”

RGDATA called on the new government to push through Duty of Care amendments to the Occupiers Liability Act 1995 that might reduce the cost of insurance.

Another legislative note on retail wish-lists refers to the off-trade: “We hope that government will provide clarity on the second phase of the Sale of Alcohol Bill in the New Year,” said NOffLA. “This legislation is vital for modernising licensing laws. Knowing its full details will offer certainty for our members, enabling them to plan confidently for the future.”

Also for off-licenses, Ireland’s high excise duty rates are creating “an uneven playing field” with competitors in Northern Ireland. “With the introduction of minimum unit pricing… the continued high levels of excise duty have become redundant from a public health perspective. A reduction in excise duty in 2025 would not only relieve financial pressures on businesses and consumers but also support the recovery and growth of independent off-licences in an increasingly competitive market,” NOffLA noted.

The prevention of retail crime is likely to remain high on the agenda for businesses in 2025. “The previous government recognised this was a serious issue and we need the new government to implement things that have been suggested,” said Tara Buckley. “We need more visible policing and maybe six penalty notices for shoplifting. It needs to be a crime with consequences.”

BWG Foods will be “pushing for more practical solutions to the issue of retail crime, which is a huge problem that requires more

action,” according to Daniel O’Connell.

Dublin City Taskforce, established in May 2024, highlighted the need for 1,000 additional Gardaí in Dublin alone.

Retailers also want to see legal issues around data sharing addressed. “Every [European] jurisdiction nowadays has ways around GDPR in some shape or form,” argued Vincent Jennings. “There must be a realisation that you can't stymie the needs of the majority and assist a criminal minority. Society has a right to be protected.”

Retailers intend to continue migrating towards sustainable energy sources in 2025, ensuring their contribution toward decarbonisation. “BWG will continue supporting our retailers in implementing energy-saving initiatives and sustainable practices, which is good for the environment and generates further efficiencies,” said Daniel O’Connell, while Vincent Jennings argued that “the Irish convenience sector is phenomenally progressive and cutting edge.”

Despite the ongoing challenges facing the sector there is optimism about the year ahead – a sentiment certainly not felt at the beginning of 2024.

Daniel O’Connell predicts “further investment in technology and innovation, as retailers continue to evolve and adapt to the challenging operating environment and the changing needs of consumers and communities across Ireland”. Environmental concerns and sustainability too remain high on the agenda:

“The economy is in a good place,” summed up Arnold Dillon. “The jobs numbers are strong and there are about 100,000 extra pay packets this Christmas. That's good news for retail. I think consumer sentiment is heading in the right direction. Inflation has come back down to a very low rate and we're going to see a drop in interest rates. We think that there's a positive outlook for retail over the coming years.”

Charitable trust makes major donation to IGBF

THE Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund (IGBF) has extended its heartfelt gratitude to the Joe and Helen O’Toole Charitable Trust for their remarkable donation of €50,000 to the grocers’ charity. The Joe and Helen O’Toole Charitable Trust was established by the late Joe O’Toole of O’Toole’s SuperValu, Tuam. This significant contribution will ensure that over 200 families receive essential support through monthly, quarterly, or annual annuities, as well as crisis grants when needed.

Mary Lardner, CEO of O’Toole’s SuperValu, Tuam, along with Joanna Jordan on behalf of the Joe and Helen O’Toole Charitable Trust, presented a cheque for €50,000 to the IGBF President of Appeals, Eoin Kellett, and Chairperson, Frances Higgins.

The assistance provided by the IGBF contributes approximately €500,000 annually to helping families navigate challenging times.

Gus O’Reilly, Executive Secretary of the IGBF, emphasises the importance of such donations in continuing their mission: “Our support for up to 200 families at any one time is made possible by the generosity of donors like the Joe and Helen O’Toole Charitable Trust. Their commitment enables us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need in the grocery trade.”

Pictured are (l-r): Eoin Kellett, President of Appeals, IGBF; Paula Marques, Manager, SuperValu Tuam; Brian McNeill, Chairman, IGBF West; Frances Higgins, Chairperson of IGBF; Peter O’Connor, National Executive Committee, IGBF; Mary Lardner, CEO of O’Toole’s SuperValu; Gus O’Reilly, Executive Secretary of IGBF; Joanna Jordan, Joe and Helen O’Toole Charitable Trust; and John Higgins, IGBF West.

Vincent Jennings, CEO, CSNA

FSAI unveils new five-year strategy

THE Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has published its new Strategy for 20252029, setting out an ambitious strategic roadmap to safeguard consumer health and assure continued trust in Ireland’s food systems. At its core is a commitment to protect consumers in Ireland and consumers of Irish food in more than 180 markets across the world. The five-year Strategy seeks to ensure that Ireland’s food safety regulatory system is robustly equipped to respond to the challenges and opportunities presented to food safety, within an evolving global food supply chain, with new innovations and changing consumer preferences and tastes.

“Our new Strategy reaffirms our commitment to our vision of safe and trustworthy food for everyone,” said Dr Pamela Byrne, Chief Executive, FSAI. “To realise this, we have developed a strategic roadmap, which accounts for the contemporary challenges and opportunities posed for food safety and food safety controls in Ireland and internationally. These have been considered within the context of a rapidly evolving global food system, influenced by a host of factors, including the drive towards more sustainable food systems, the development of new food products and the utilisation of technology.”

As the central competent authority, the FSAI will continue to lead and support Ireland’s food safety inspectorate to implement a fair, consistent and effective system of enforcement.

The strategic actions include an evaluation of the evidence to inform policy relating to a hygiene-rating scheme for food businesses across Ireland. It identifies the roll-out of targeted supports to assist with compliance by food businesses and making greater use of technology platforms to share communications on food safety and compliance. It will continue to advocate for food safety and authenticity nationally and internationally, as food systems innovate, embrace technology and transition to become more sustainable. The FSAI also commits to increasing collaboration with European and international partners to further enhance its preparedness to manage food safety risks.

The four strategic goals are: Advocate and engage: Advocate for the importance of food safety and authenticity in engagement with all stakeholders to better protect consumers’ health and interests and increase compliance. Actions include a commitment to streamline

Pictured at the launch of the Food Safety Authority of Ireland’s new corporate strategy for the next five years are Dr Pamela Byrne, CEO, and Ann Horan, Chairperson.

communications to food businesses using technology platforms and examining the evidence surrounding a hygiene-based rating scheme and its potential role in Ireland’s food control systems.

Reduce risk: Enhance the ability to protect consumers’ health and interests by anticipating, assessing and managing risks that impact on the safety and authenticity of food. Key commitments include the adoption of a multi-agency agreement on the management of incidents based on best practice. It also identifies the importance of strengthening capabilities to manage risk, through increased participation with European and international partners.

Enforce food law: Ensure and verify compliance with food law and take appropriate action to protect consumers within a national regulatory framework. Priority actions include continued improvement in official food control systems; working on a cross-agency basis, with partners across Europe and globally; leading and supporting the national food safety inspectorate.

Drive organisational excellence: Deliver better food safety outcomes for consumers through empowering staff, aligning systems, and demonstrating adaptive, value-driven leadership. Key commitments include maintaining a best-in-class

approach to governance and improving efficiencies through maximising the use of digital technologies.

The FSAI’s new Strategy 2025-2029 provides a clear five-year roadmap to guide how it will work to achieve its strategic goals, according to Dr Byrne.

“As an organisation, our core objective is to protect consumers’ health and assure continued trust in our food systems, by ensuring that the food consumed in Ireland, and Irish food consumed globally, is safe to eat,” noted Dr Byrne. “This new fiveyear Strategy will continue to develop a culture of food safety in all food businesses and thereby, improve food safety overall. The Strategy is underpinned by actions, anchored in an evidence and data driven based approach. We will continue to oversee a robust evidence-based regulatory system, which supports the food industry to thrive and develop, with food safety at the core of how it operates.

“We will continue to build our organisational capabilities and deepen engagement and collaboration with our stakeholders, including our European and international partners. Combined, these actions will allow us to continue to protect consumers’ health and interests to the highest of standards.”

For more information, visit www.fsai.ie/ publications/fsai-strategy-2025-2029

Rising costs a major concern for foodservice

GROWING costs remain a major challenge for Ireland’s foodservice sector, according to Bord Bia’s annual Foodservice Market Insights report. Figures in the report show that the Irish ‘out of home’ sector increased by 5.2% in value and overall industry turnover surpassed €9.8 billion across both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. While this is the highest level seen within the industry over the past 10 years, much of this increase has come about due to inflation and higher menu prices driven by significant cost pressures in the sector.

“Looking back over the past four years, it is clear that the foodservice industry across Ireland has seen a great deal of disruption and recovery,” revealed Maureen Gahan, Foodservice Specialist, Bord Bia. “Since 2021, the industry has risen in value every year, based on a combination of greater footfall and annual increases in menu prices to the consumer. There remains steady consumer demand for dining out-of-home; however, higher menu prices have started to deter some people from eating out. In addition, the operating environment is increasingly daunting for many restaurants and foodservice operators.

“The industry remains challenged from an operating cost and margin perspective – and this is the concern voiced by many. It is clear that suppliers, distributors and operators need to have a more targeted business strategy when looking ahead to

the next 12-18 months. An ongoing focus on cost reduction will be critical.”

The most pressing challenges outlined in the report are identified as cost structure, labour costs impacting profitability and the impact of slower in-bound travel and tourism.

Cost structure: while they have learned to deal with higher food costs, other costs have risen significantly leading to increased financial strain, especially for small, independent operators who are more vulnerable to closure. Larger operators, including restaurant chains, are financially better positioned to operate in today’s cost environment.

Labour costs impacting profitability: although the availability of workers has improved, finding qualified candidates for skilled positions remains difficult. Rising minimum wages have increased labour costs significantly, impacting operators' profitability. This, combined with higher rents and pension costs, has meant many operators are struggling to maintain profitability.

Impact of slower in-bound travel and tourism: the Irish foodservice industry is heavily dependent on travel and tourism, and 2024 has been a “disappointing” year for overseas visitors to Ireland. This has had a knock-on impact on many businesses that are highly dependent on foreign tourists.

Despite these challenges, the report

also highlights a number of opportunities. These include: consumer experiences, innovation and building customer loyalty; technological solutions (without replacing human interaction); menu engineering; and taking advantage of new routines.

Consumer experiences, innovation and building customer loyalty: while overall spending has slowed, consumers are still willing to invest in ‘experiences’ that are unique or different. Operators are responding by focusing on innovative service models, unique menus and immersive environments. Building customer loyalty remains crucial. By providing value and demonstrating care, operators can retain and attract new customers.

Look to technology for solutions but do not replace human interaction: front-ofhouse technologies like ordering kiosks and mobile apps can enhance the customer experience and streamline operations. Back-of-house innovations, such as AIpowered inventory management and video training can optimise labour utilisation and reduce waste. However, the focus must remain on using technology to enhance staff capabilities and deliver exceptional hospitality experiences, not to replace them.

Menu engineering: given the food and labour cost situation, many operators continue to engineer their menu for the best impact on profit. This has involved taking higher cost items off the menu and shrinking menus to focus on core items that can drive profitability.

Taking advantage of new routines: the shift towards hybrid work has significantly impacted the foodservice industry. Some businesses are using food as an incentive to lure employees back to the office, investing in higher-quality offerings. However, maintaining affordable prices for captive audiences remains a challenge. The shift has also led to increased business on Mondays and Fridays in suburban areas.

Maureen Gahan said that the report “identifies a number of key considerations for Irish food and beverage suppliers to familarise themselves with in order to future-proof their own businesses and remain relevant to industry and consumer needs. Unsurprisingly, there needs to be a continued focus on cost control and delivering value. In addition, suppliers should consider innovation in the context of helping their foodservice customers deliver greater efficiencies and profitability.”

Pictured at Manna Drone Delivery, Blanchardstown, Dublin for the launch of Bord Bia’s annual Foodservice Market Insights report are: Michael Cunningham, Head of Commercial, Manna Drone Delivery; Maureen Gahan, Foodservice Specialist, Bord Bia; and Taylor Knightsbridge, Assistant Manager, Boojum Blanchardstown.

Biggest sales month

TAKE-home grocery sales increased by 6.4% over the four weeks to 3 November 3, 2024, to reach €1.16 billion, making this the biggest sales month of the year so far, according to the latest data from Kantar. Grocery inflation stands at 3.3%, which is down 6.15 points versus the same time last year.

Irish households shopped more often in October, up 2.6% compared to last year, stocking up for Halloween, the bank holiday ahead of the school mid-term break and Christmas, leading to a 5.4% overall increase in volume sales. While pumpkin sales increased by 4.5% (€63k), sales of brussels sprouts surged by 43% as shoppers spent an additional €149k on this traditional holiday staple.

“October was an important month for Irish shoppers as they prepared for the first school holiday of the new term and Halloween, enjoying above-average temperatures that delayed the need to don winter woollies,” said Eimear Faughnan, Head of Retail at Kantar. “Shoppers stocked up on Halloween treats, spending a ‘frightening’ €8.9 million more than last year on chocolate confectionery, €2.4 million on savoury snacks and €1.6 million on sweets. But it’s clear that Irish households are also preparing for the holiday season. Shoppers spent an additional combined €774k on flour, fruits & nuts, icing & cake mixes as they ready their Christmas cakes.”

Dunnes hold 24.5% market share, with sales growth of 9% year-on-year as shoppers increased their number of trips by 7.3%, contributing an additional €55.9 million to overall performance.

Tesco maintain 23.4% of the market, with value growth of 9.6% year-on-year, as shoppers increased their trips to store by 6.7%.

Over the latest 12-week period, shoppers took advantage of promotions, spending an additional €40 million on deals compared to the previous period. The share of products sold on promotion sits at 18.5%. Branded products outperformed own label for the third consecutive 12-week period, resulting in a 2.6% gap, as shoppers boosted branded value sales by 7%.

Online sales rose by 11.8% year-on-year, with shoppers spending an additional €21.5 million through this channel. Over the latest 12-week period, the number of online shopping trips increased by 16.5%, adding €29 million to the channel.

SuperValu claim a 19.7% share of the market and saw growth of 2.3%. Consumers made the most shopping trips to this grocer, averaging 24.4 trips over the latest 12 weeks. The increased number of shopping trips and additional items picked up per trip contributed €28.8 million to SuperValu’s performance.

Lidl experienced a growth of 6.3%, capturing a 13.5% share of total spending. Increased store visits and higher volume per trip contributed to an additional €26.3 million in sales compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, Aldi grew by 1.2%, securing an 11.5% market share, with increased store visits driving an additional €16.4 million in sales.

Gluten Free Christmas Hub from Dunnes

DUNNES Stores and the Coeliac Society of Ireland are back with the 2024 Gluten Free Christmas Hub. With over 500,000 Irish consumers either coeliac or gluten intolerant, Dunnes Stores have teamed up with the Coeliac Society of Ireland for a third year to lead the way in demonstrating how shoppers can have a tasty and enjoyable festive season with friends and family without the fear of being ill as a result.

“In 2022, we became the first retailer in Ireland to receive the Crossed Grain Trademark [certified to be safe and suitable for people with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance], a status we are proud to uphold in 2024,” said James Wilson, Food Director at Dunnes Stores. “Ensuring the highest quality and safest food products for all our customers, especially those with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance, remains a priority. We want everyone to enjoy Christmas to the fullest, from hosting guests who need gluten-free options to those with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance who wish to make the most of the festive season.”

The 2024 Christmas Hub is packed with information and practical advice from health and nutrition experts, as well as tips, recipes, and videos. It also provides helpful hints about staying healthy over the festive season. Most importantly, there

is clear information on how to prepare food safely to avoid cross-contamination with foods that contain gluten.

“We are thrilled to partner with Ireland’s leading grocer, Dunnes Stores, for a third year running,” noted Louise Ryan, Sales & Marketing lead for the Coeliac Society of Ireland.

“Christmas is a time of celebration and indulgence, and it should be no different for those who cannot eat anything containing gluten, for medical reasons. Even a small amount of gluten can make someone living with coeliac disease very ill. Our goal is to demonstrate that it is easy to thrive during Christmas, despite the many difficulties avoiding gluten poses. We are delighted that Dunnes Stores are leading the way and demonstrating how achievable this is. We are here to support our community.”

The Christmas hub can be located at https://coeliac.ie/christmas-hub

Good Food Ireland winners announced

THE winners of the Good Food Ireland Awards, in association with FBD Insurance, were revealed recently at a high-profile awards ceremony at The K Club, County Kildare, attended by some 300 guests including Irish and international chefs, buyers, food and drink writers, media and industry leaders.

Attendees enjoyed a five-course gala dinner designed by The K Club’s Executive Chef Gary O’Hanlon, inspired by our island’s landscape and seascape, showcasing the freshest of ingredients from Irish suppliers including: Thornhill Duck; Garryhinch Mushroom; Killowen Farm Natural Yoghurt and Natural Cream Cheese; John Stone Fillet of Beef; Janet’s Country Fayre Chutney; Wilde Irish Chocolates; and The K Club’s honey from their own hives. This was complemented by a Meet the Maker Drinks Showcase, including: The Dew Drop Brewhouse, Kildare; Five Farms Irish Cream Liqueur and Rebel City Gin, Cork; The Old Roots Irish Wine, Wexford; and a Cailleach Punch, combining Roe & Co Apple Brandy with Sencha Green Tea.

The Awards celebrate businesses at every layer of Ireland’s food and drink industry, from primary producers, manufacturers and chefs, to shops, hotels, tourism experiences and restaurants. The core emphasis of these unique, all island, cross-sector Awards is the consumer experience of local, fresh, seasonal, Irish ingredients.

One of the Dublin food scene’s most colourful characters, the second-generation fishmonger Peter Caviston of Caviston's Seafood Restaurant & Food Emporium in Glasthule was presented with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. The Master Smoker behind Ummera Smoked Products in Cork, Anthony Creswell, was recognised for his Outstanding Contribution to Food Production. Another family affair, this time the O’Neill Family of Mountain View, Kilkenny took home Food Innovator of the Year for their third-generation, multi-faceted family business.

The Good Food Ireland Overall Producer of The Year was awarded to third generation artisan butchers Kelly's of Newport, Co. Mayo, who were also named Meat Producer of the Year. The other producer awards included: Kearns’ Fruit Farm, Wexford, were Fruit & Vegetable Producer of the Year; Realt na Mara Shellfish, Kerry, won the Fish & Seafood Producer of the Year award; Long Meadow Cider from Armagh took home the Drinks Producer of the Year award; Freezin’ Friesan from Waterford, won Dairy Producer of the Year; Leahy Beekeeping from Galway were

named Sweet & Savoury Producer of the Year; The Chocolate Garden of Ireland, Carlow, won Bakery & Chocolate Producer of the Year.

“To say that deciding on the winners from our magnificent shortlist of businesses from across the island of Ireland has been tough this year would be a huge understatement,” revealed Margaret Jeffares, Founder and Managing Director of Good Food Ireland. “We’ve seen a notable rise in confidence in the tourism and hospitality industry to prioritise Irish ingredients due to customers being far more vocal about wanting to see Irish produce on the menu. Awareness around sustainability has increased across the board and utilising local food and drink is a fundamental way to assist sustainable goals, as well as helping hotels and restaurants provide their clientele with the true taste of their region. All these factors combined have given Irish farmers, fishermen and food and drink producers a renewed sense of purpose and desire to innovate.”

For more information, visit goodfoodireland.ie.

Tesco announce €14 million

TESCO Ireland recently announced a €14 million investment in colleague pay and benefits, building on similar increases announced last year, along with a significant boost in paid maternity, adoptive and paternity leave, making Tesco one of the leading retailers in the provision of family leave entitlements for its colleagues.

Measures include investment in a 3% pay increase for most of its established hourly-paid workers effective from January 1, 2025. This means the average Tesco colleague, from January 1, will be paid €17.61 per hour, well ahead of the proposed new national living wage due to be introduced in 2026.

investment in benefits

Additionally, fully paid maternity leave will almost double from 14 weeks to 26 weeks, and fully paid adoptive leave will increase from 14 weeks to 24 weeks for employees with over 12 months’ service. Fully paid paternity leave will also double to two weeks for those working with the company over six months.

“We recognise the incredibly important role our colleagues play in the success of our business,” said Tesco Ireland’s People Director, Maurice Kelly. “The investment we’re announcing today in pay and benefits, coupled with the investment for 2024, brings over €30 million worth of enhancements to our colleagues in just two years.”

Maurice Kelly, People Director, Tesco Ireland.

Peter Caviston of Caviston's Seafood Restaurant & Food Emporium in Glasthule was presented with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.

M&S Ireland get Origin Green seal of approval

M&S Ireland have achieved Origin Green certification, a significant milestone in their sustainability journey in Ireland, recognising the retailer’s dedication to sustainable practices across its Irish supply chain. “We are thrilled to receive Origin Green certification. This achievement demonstrates one of many initiatives we are undertaking to do our part in helping Ireland meet its net zero targets. We look forward to working with Bord Bia and our Irish suppliers to drive our sustainability commitments forward,” noted Eddie Murphy, Country Director, M&S Ireland and Northern Ireland. “We are delighted to recognise M&S Ireland with Origin Green certification and welcome the business to the Origin Green programme,” said Deirdre Ryan, Director of Sustainability and Quality Assurance, Origin Green, pictured with Laura Harper, Trading Director Ireland and Northern Ireland, M&S.

Aldi open new €9.8 million Tullamore store

ALDI have officially opened their new store in Tullamore, Co. Offaly, creating 30 new permanent jobs in the local community. The new store represents an investment of over €9.8 million in the area, bringing the total investment by Aldi in Offaly to €18.8 million since opening its first store in the county in 2000. Located on O’Connell Street, the 1,650 square metre store is Aldi’s third in County Offaly and second store in Tullamore. “This new store comes at a key time when Irish consumers continue to face high costs of living,” said Yasmin Rourke, Store Manager. “The new Aldi store in Tullamore will offer a wide range of fresh, high-quality Irish produce at excellent value.”

BWG Foodservice launch Christmas brochure

BWG Foodservice recently launched their mouthwatering Christmas 2024 brochure, which is designed to allow their hospitality partners to plan their festive menus. The BWG Foodservice Christmas Brochure offers an extensive and delicious range of menu solutions for every commercial kitchen throughout Ireland. BWG Foodservice have also included priced menu solutions to ensure customers maximise their gross profit (GP). Pictured at the launch of the BWG Foodservice Christmas Brochure 2024 are (l-r): Karla Murray, Head of Foodservice Trading; Aoife NicChormaic; Trained Chef and Trading Graduate; and Ricky O’Brien, Foodservice Director, BWG Foods.

Tesco unveil Christmas ad

New MD at Vista Foods

VISTA Foods Ltd have announced the appointment of Helen Kenny as their new Managing Director. With over 20 years of experience in the retail food sector, including expertise in frozen foods, Helen is well-equipped to lead the company through its next phase of growth. She brings valuable consumer insights and a proven track record of developing growth strategies and innovation to elevate businesses. Vista Foods have been supplying premium, hand-cut chicken to the foodservice channel for over two decades, where quality and customer satisfaction are key to success. The company recently launched its exciting retail brand, Chicken with Attitude, which has been rapidly expanding, with the introduction of its latest product, Tempura Real Chicken Dippers. “I am honoured and delighted to have been appointed Managing Director of Vista Foods,” noted Helen. “It is a business that aligns with my passions and values, and I look forward to continuing the company's success and growth.”

TESCO are getting the nation into the festive mood with this year’s Christmas advert named ‘Helping Feed Your Christmas Spirit’. The ad taps into the key moments of the festive season, highlighting what nourishes our Christmas spirit and what might cause it to waver - ultimately offering a message of togetherness, nostalgia and joy centered around home, food and reconnecting with loved ones.

“Our aim with this year’s Christmas advert is to celebrate the beautiful moments that truly feed our Christmas spirit, while acknowledging that Christmas isn’t an easy time for everyone,” noted Suzanne Quinn, Customer Director, Tesco Ireland. “Tesco is here to lend a helping hand throughout the festive season.”

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Industry News

Lidl Ireland sign fresh deal with McCaghey Turkeys

LIDL Ireland have announced a new supply deal with Monaghan-based supplier McCaghey Turkeys, which will see their fresh and pre-prepared Irish turkeys stocked across all 223 Lidl stores across the island of Ireland. The new deal comes ahead of the festive season, which Lidl Ireland predict will see shoppers gobble up more than 90,000 turkeys this Christmas. Among the festive products available at Lidl stores are Mc Caghey’s traditional Fresh Turkeys and Deluxe Bronze Free Range Slow Grown Turkeys, as well as their Boned & Rolled Stuffed Turkey Joint and Boneless Turkey Breast Joint, which have seen a surge in demand from shoppers prioritising convenience when preparing Christmas dinner. Pictured are (l-r): Pat McCaghey, McCaghey Turkeys, and Robert Hatton, Buying Director at Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Mace stores host charity coffee day

MACE stores throughout Ireland held a fundraising day on Friday, November 22, when they donated €1 from each sale of coffee and tea to Mace’s official charity partner, Debra. To help promote this latest initiative, Mace employed the services of talented artist, Giulia Bernardelli, who specialises in creating coffee art. Giulia created a very special community image exclusively for Mace, incorporating a butterfly, the symbol of Debra, also known as the Butterfly charity, as it supports people affected by epidermolysis bullosa (EB), often referred to as ‘butterfly skin’. “It is wonderful to see so many of our Mace stores sign up for the coffee day,” said Keith Crawford, Mace Sales Director. “Mace retailers are very proud to work with Debra as our official charity partner and we hope that our support will continue to help improve the lives of everyone with epidermolysis bullosa (EB).”

Flahavan’s help Barretstown with Magical Reindeer Food

BARRETSTOWN have teamed up with Flahavan’s for a third year to create ‘Magical Reindeer Food’, a festive treat for Santa’s reindeer, on sale for €2 in Applegreen and Dealz stores, with all proceeds going directly to the charity. Pictured at the launch are: Fionann O’Shea, Assistant Brand Manager, Flahavan’s; Eoin Holohan (9); Sharon Sheridan, Trading Director Ireland, Dealz; Thomas Macken, Regional Trainer at Poundland & Dealz, mentalist and Barretstown Ambassador Keith Barry; Barretstown CEO Dee Ahearn; Rosie Begley, Social Impact Manager, Applegreen; Barretstown camper Cathail Holohan (7); Aoife Keyes (11); and Barretstown camper Clodagh Keyes (9).

TESCO celebrated the grand opening of their very first store in Kilkenny City recently, with Lord Mayor Andrew McGuinness joining the official ribbon cutting at the High Street store. This exciting new addition to grocery shopping in the city marks a significant milestone for Tesco as they expand their presence in the region, bringing a fantastic range of products and services to the local community. “Following the opening of our first store in Co. Kilkenny at Ferrybank in November last year, we are excited to now have a presence in Kilkenny City,” noted Geoff Byrne, Chief Operating Officer, Tesco Ireland. “This new store is part of our ongoing investment in stores in urban centres, and we are thrilled to be joining this thriving local community.” Kilkenny Mayor Andrew McGuiness and store manager Colm Cleary, are pictured at the official opening with store colleagues, Elma and Nadia.

Aldi to sell 4.3 million mince pies

ALDI Ireland are set to sell 4.3 million mince pies this Christmas, as customers are predicted to stock up on festive treats even more this year, with increased sales expected across their renowned Christmas range. The supermarket predicts it will also sell more than 130,000 Christmas puddings, as well as 55,000 Christmas cakes in the lead-up to Christmas day, along with 26,000 bottles of mulled wine, and a surge of almost 40% in prosecco sales. “It’s all hands on-deck as our buying and store teams continue preparations to ensure customers have the best experience with their Christmas shopping trips in the weeks ahead,” noted John Curtin, Group Buying Director at Aldi Ireland.

Tesco open Kilkenny City store

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Industry News

Multi-feed Reverse Vending Machine launches in Ireland

THE first multi-feed Reverse Vending Machine in Ireland recently went live at Kelly’s Spar Newcastle, Co. Dublin. Global reverse vending supplier Tomra Collection’s Tomra R1 enables recyclers in Ireland’s deposit return scheme to pour over 100 empty beverage containers into the machine in one go, rather than inserting them one-by-one, delivering an efficient, more user-friendly and convenient recycling experience. “The Tomra R1 will save our customers time as they can now recycle over 100 containers in secondswhile creating a more seamless and enjoyable recycling experience,” said store owner Brian Kelly. “We are all proud to lead the way in Ireland towards a circular economy and strengthening our commitment to sustainability at our store and community.” Pictured are John Lee, Peter Whelan (Tomra), store owners Brian, Karen & Finn Kelly; Emer Higgins TD, Minister of State with responsibility for Business, Employment and Retail; Cllr Shirley O’Hara; Ciaran Foley, CEO, Re-Turn; and Andrew Boyle.

ABP Clones reduce carbon emissions by 80%

ABP, one of Europe’s leading food processors, have partnered with ESB to reduce carbon emissions at their Clones site by 80% with the installation of an innovative, state-of-the-art water heating system. The project forms part of ABP’s overall sustainability strategy and is part of an extensive decarbonisation plan that aims to reduce scope 1 and 2 emissions by 42% from 2021 to 2030 across all ABP sites in Ireland, UK and Europe. Pictured at the ABP facility to mark the installation, are (l-r): Ciaran Gallagher, Head of Smart Energy Services, ESB; John McMurray, General Manager, ABP Clones; Richard Keating, Group Engineering Manager, ABP; and Killian Casey, Group Engineering Manager, ABP Ireland & Northern Ireland.

KitKat races ahead with Formula 1

Tesco open new St James Gate Store

TESCO have opened their newest store in Dublin 8, close to the world-famous Guinness Storehouse. The St James Gate Express store is set in the new Grand Canal Harbour Development and brings to 181 the total number of stores Tesco have across Ireland. Store Manager Naveen Kunta leads a team of 14 new colleagues, some of whom helped cut the ribbon at the official opening, where customers and colleagues were also joined by newly elected TD Maire Devine. “Opening our new Tesco St James Gate Express marks our 11th new store since January, and the 14 roles we’ve created here join the more than 265 new jobs we’ve created nationwide as part of our store expansion programme this year alone,” said Geoff Byrne, Chief Operating Officer of Tesco Ireland. Pictured are store manager Naveen Kunta (centre), with Ken Collins, Convenience Regional Director, Tesco (right) and Tesco colleagues Paddy, Bianca, and Prudhvi.

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. Bringing its iconic ‘Have a Break, Have a KitKat’ message to the high-speed world of Formula 1, KitKat will champion the importance of taking a moment to pause. The collaboration will officially launch during the 2025 season, marking the 90th anniversary of KitKat and the 75th anniversary of Formula 1. 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.

Tesco Breakfast Clubs mark 10 years

GENERAL Manager of Kellogg’s Ireland, Shauna Lenagh, and Bohemians goalkeeper, Rachael Kelly pictured at St Francis Senior National School in Dublin as Kellogg's mark 10 years of their Breakfast Clubs programme in Ireland. Over the past decade, Kellogg's have donated over €500,000 to their Breakfast Clubs programme in partnership with the Community Foundation Ireland, benefitting over 28,000 children. This year alone, Kellogg’s have contributed over €100,000, supporting over 4,000 students. Kellogg's research reveals over half of teachers surveyed see students arrive at school without having had a breakfast, and 42% of teachers believe the cost-ofliving crisis has had a major impact on students' access to breakfast at home.

IGBF Christmas Lunch

Festive fare and farewells

The 2024 IGBF Christmas Lunch honoured the legacy of two retiring giants of the Irish grocery industry, while raising money for this most worthwhile of charities.

THE Irish grocery industry came together in festive spirit at the 2024 Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund (IGBF) Christmas Lunch, held on Friday, December 6, at the Clayton Burlington Hotel, Dublin. With over 1,200 industry professionals attending, and hosted by Kevin Donnelly of Britvic, this much-anticipated event celebrated 61 years of the IGBF’s vital work supporting industry members in need, while paying tribute to two iconic figures retiring this year: Sharon Buckley of Musgrave and Leo Crawford of BWG Foods.

The incredible contributions of Sharon Buckley and Leo Crawford were celebrated on the day, with attendees reflecting on their remarkable careers and the lasting impact they’ve made on the Irish grocery sector. Their leadership, dedication and vision were acknowledged with heartfelt tributes, highlighting the profound influence they’ve had on shaping Ireland’s grocery industry.

A cornerstone of the social calendar

This year’s IGBF Christmas Lunch, a cornerstone of the grocery industry’s social calendar, was made possible through the generous sponsorship of the National Lottery, PRM, Coca-Cola, Mondelez, Tesco Media, and Monster Energy. Their commitment underscores the shared purpose of supporting industry colleagues and families during challenging times.

Attendees were captivated by a rousing performance from Ireland’s beloved Imelda May, who was joined on stage by special guest Mundy, creating a magical festive

Pictured are incoming IGBF President of Appeals Simon Marriott, Chief Retail and Commercial Officer, BWG Foods UC; Frances Higgins, IGBF Chairperson; and outgoing President of Appeals Eoin Kellett, Managing Director, Mondelez Ireland, at the annual IGBF Christmas Lunch.

atmosphere. Adding a playful twist to the event, the popular ‘IGBF Best Dressed Christmas Outfit’ competition brought out attendees' most creative holiday attire.

Life-changing assistance

In her address, Frances Higgins, Chairperson of the IGBF, highlighted the enduring importance of the charity’s work. A poignant video was shared during the

event, capturing stories of how the fund has provided life-changing assistance to industry colleagues and their families. The video resonated deeply with the audience, illustrating the real difference the IGBF makes in the lives of those it supports.

“Every contribution today, whether attending, donating, or spreading the word, fuels our mission of being a lifeline for those in our industry who need it

IGBF Christmas Lunch

most,” said Frances Higgins. She emphasised the importance of raising awareness within businesses and encouraged attendees to contact the fund with full confidentiality if they know someone in need via info@igbf.ieor gus.oreilly@igbf.ie.

New President of Appeals

The Lunch also marked a leadership transition within the IGBF. Outgoing President of Appeals Eoin Kellett, Managing Director of Mondelez Ireland, was recognised for his contributions over the past year. Looking ahead, Simon Marriott, Chief Retail and Commercial Officer of BWG Foods UC, was introduced as the incoming President of Appeals, bringing renewed energy to the role as the IGBF enters its 62nd year.

The IGBF Christmas Lunch exemplifies the shared commitment of the grocery sector to support its own, turning a festive occasion into a meaningful celebration of community and care.

To learn more about the IGBF, its mission, and upcoming events in 2025, visit www.igbf.ie

The IGBF Committee, pictured at the Christmas Lunch.

Some of the BWG Foods team, pictured at the IGBF Christmas Lunch.

Pictured are (l-r) Fergal McNulty, Finance Director of Rose Confectionery and IGBF Honorary Treasurer; Gus O’Reilly, IGBF Executive Secretary; and Kevin Keating, Joint MD of Tennant & Ruttle and IGBF Board Member.

The National Lottery team, enjoying the IGBF Christmas Lunch.

IGBF Christmas Lunch

The team from PRM at the IGBF Christmas Lunch.

Imelda May and Mundy rocking the stage at the IGBF Christmas Lunch.

Angi Crispe and Suzanna Boyle, Head of Space & Range at Tesco Ireland, enjoying the IGBF Christmas Lunch.

Frances Higgins, IGBF Chair, addresses attendees.

Simon O’Connor, Britvic Ireland, and Colm Rooney, Shopper Intelligence, enjoying the lunch.

Eoin Kellett, outgoing President of Appeals, on stage at the IGBF Christmas Lunch.

The Tesco Ireland team, enjoying the IGBF Christmas Lunch.

Kevin Donnelly, Britvic Ireland, proved an excellent MC for the event.

Ishka shines on the global stage

Ishka Irish Spring Water was one of the big winners at the 2024 British Bottlers Institute Competition.

ISHKA Irish Spring Water has once again proven its commitment to excellence, securing top honours at the 2024 British Bottlers Institute (BBI) Competition. The company’s Still Water received a prestigious Gold Medal, while its Sparkling Water earned a Diploma for Excellence. These accolades reinforce Ishka’s position as one of Ireland’s leading bottled water brands.

The BBI Competition, a globally recognised event running for nearly 70 years, evaluates beverages through a rigorous blind tasting conducted by a panel of seasoned industry experts. Competing against some of the world’s best bottled water brands, Ishka stood out for its superior taste and quality.

A proud moment

“Winning Gold for our Still Water and a Diploma for Excellence for our Sparkling Water is a proud moment for our team,” said a delighted Mike Sutton, Director at Ishka. “It reflects the care, craftsmanship, and dedication we put into every drop of Ishka water. It’s a privilege to share a taste of Ireland’s natural beauty with our customers.”

Ed Binsted, President of the British Bottlers Institute, praised Ishka’s accomplishment: “A wonderful achievement

for Ishka to gain a Gold Award for their Still Spring Water, eclipsing their previous success. To also be awarded a Diploma for Excellence for their Sparkling Spring Water proves the quality of their products and is very well deserved.”

Ishka sources its water from natural springs in Ballyneety, County Limerick. The water is naturally filtered through 200-metre-deep limestone bedrock, imparting a refreshing taste and unique character. This second-generation, familyowned business, founded in 1978, has product in most retail outlets nationwide as it offers both private label and Ishkabranded products.

Innovation and environmental responsibility

Ishka has consistently led the way in sustainability and innovation within the bottled water industry. The company was the first in Ireland to use rPET - recycled polyethylene terephthalate - for its packaging. Additionally, Ishka prepared its production lines for the EU-mandated tethered caps three years ahead of the deadline, showcasing its proactive approach to compliance and sustainability.

A recent €4.5 million investment in high-speed bottling technology has not only increased production capacity but also created 10 new jobs. The sophisticated bottling process ensures that the water

remains untouched by human hands, maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and quality.

Surrounded by a highly protected zone designated by Limerick County Council, Ishka’s on-site spring wells are safeguarded to the highest standards.

Looking ahead

With its commitment to innovation, quality and future-proofing the business, Ishka is poised to continue its strong presence in the Irish bottled water industry for years to come as it continues to deliver the pristine taste and purity its customers have come to expect.

A recent € 4.5 million investment in high-speed bottling technology increased production capacity at Ishka’s Limerick facility.

Mike Sutton, Director, Ishka, celebrates the win in the BBI Competition.

Unlock the future of retail with GS1 QR codes

The transition to GS1 QR codes will bring the barcode into the digital age, offering unprecedented capabilities for data capacity and consumer interaction, writes Maria Svejdar, Head of Retail, GS1 Ireland.

THE transition to GS1 QR codes in the coming years will be a pivotal moment for the retail industry. By embracing this technology, brands and retailers alike can enhance consumer engagement, meet regulatory demands and drive operational efficiency. As we look towards a future where every product is a gateway to information and interaction, GS1 QR codes promise to unlock new levels of retail success.

For decades, traditional linear barcodes like EAN codes have served as the cornerstone of product identification in retail, ensuring smooth transactions and efficient inventory management. However, as we approach 2027, the retail landscape is poised for a monumental shift towards GS1 QR codes. These modern barcodes are designed to cater to the digital age, offering unprecedented capabilities in terms of data capacity and consumer

interaction. In this article, we explore some of the benefits for retailers, brands and consumers alike.

Empowering retailers with advanced technology

GS1 QR codes provide retailers with the tools needed to meet the growing demands for product transparency and efficiency. With the ability to store additional product information, these codes not only facilitate smoother store operations but can be leveraged to reduce waste and to enhance the overall shopping experience. Retailers can now provide consumers with instant access to product details and offers, strengthening trust and engagement.

Unveiling the benefits of GS1 QR Codes for Brands: a new era of digitally connected packaging

The shift to GS1 QR codes is a strategic leap for brands and suppliers. One of the primary

The shift to GS1 QR codes is a strategic leap for brands and suppliers, who can use them to convey rich product information directly to consumers.

GS1 Ireland

benefits is the ability to convey rich product information directly to consumers. Brands can now share detailed product narratives, usage instructions, and even sustainability practices. This transparency fosters trust and loyalty among consumers, which is increasingly vital in today’s competitive market.

Additionally, GS1 QR codes enable brands to streamline their supply chain operations. By integrating these codes into their logistics, brands can enhance their inventory management, reduce errors and improve overall efficiency. This level of operational refinement not only cuts costs but also accelerates the time-to-market for new products, offering a tangible competitive edge.

Make your product stand out on the shelf, and in the home, with packaging that can connect to the internet and connect you directly to your customer, through the medium of a QR code powered by GS1.

Space on pack is a limited resource. Once all the mandatory product data is included on the label, it can be difficult to find space to include information to engage and delight the consumer. With the advent of QR codes with a GS1 Digital Link, it is now possible to create and serve a customised digital experience for consumers, through a gateway enabled by a QR code.

The new QR codes powered by GS1 go beyond a simple link to one webpage provided by standard marketing QR codes today. These codes are often used for a specific purpose, such as a competition or promotion, and have a limited life-span. With the new GS1-compliant QR codes, the opportunity exists to link to multiple sources of information and to create a

broad, detailed and updateable experience for consumers, linked to a specific product. Instead of just encoding a webpage url or short-code, the GS1 Digital Link QR codes contain a standardised, structured URI that also contains the barcode number (GTIN) for a product SKU.

By including the barcode number as part of the link, not only can the QR codes be scanned by consumers, but they can also go beep at the till.

Ambition 2027

A programme is underway globally to support the CPG industry to migrate to 2D codes on consumer products. The goal globally is to have retail point-ofsale systems capable of scanning and processing 2D barcodes by the end of 2027. After that date (once retailer readiness is confirmed), brands can begin to drop the traditional (1D) EAN/UPC linear barcodes from packaging in favour of 2D codes for all supply chain and consumer purposes.

Brand readiness & pilots

But brands don’t need to wait until 2027 to begin engaging with consumers through QR codes. If you already use QR codes for marketing purposes, consider transitioning to a GS1-compliant QR code the next time you update or refresh a packaging design. Got a new product launching soon? Include a QR code on that product, future-proof your packaging and begin crafting a digital experience to match that product.

GS1’s advice to brands is to start small and to start with a simple Digital Link. As experience and technical capability builds,

additional features can be added to enrich the QR code’s functionality and value.

A pilot programme is open to GS1 members to trial and test QR codes with Digital Link capabilities. The marketing and consumer engagement benefits of adopting QR codes can be realised from today, ahead of the date for retail point-of-sale scanning readiness.

Contact GS1 Ireland today if you are a brand, producer or retailer that would like to commence a pilot.

Rewarding SuperValu’s top off licences

Four SuperValu stores won top awards at the Edward Dillon & Santa Rita Estates SuperValu Off Licence of the Year Awards.

THE annual Edward Dillon & Santa Rita Estates SuperValu Off Licence of the Year Awards took place at The Sheraton Hotel Athlone on November 21, with four SuperValu stores winning the top awards on the night. The winners were selected from over 220 SuperValu stores across Ireland, from which 28 finalists came through the judging process. The winners are:

• Overall Winner SuperValu Off Licence of the Year: SuperValu Bantry, Cork

• Performer of the Year Award: SuperValu Togher, Cork

• Large Store Off Licence of the Year: Pettitt’s SuperValu, St Aidan’s, Wexford

• Small / Medium Store Off Licence of the Year: SuperValu Palmerstown, Dublin

The winners of this year's Edward Dillon & Santa Rita Estates SuperValu Off Licence of the Year Awards will enjoy an exclusive trip to Chile, visiting the home of Santa Rita Estates and the city of Santiago.

On the night, guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, tasting some of Edward Dillon’s best loved brands, including Hennessy and Bacardí rum, followed by an evening of laughter and delicious food paired with Santa Rita wines. The event, hosted by RTE’s Shay Byrne, was followed with entertainment from top Irish comedian Bernard O’Shea.

Rewarding dedication and hard work

Each of the winners were presented with their award by John Cassidy, Commercial Director of Edward Dillon and Tom Gaskin of Santa Rita Estates.

“It is a pleasure for Tom and I to present these SuperValu stores with their awards,” said John Cassidy. “I know that it’s a hardfought battle each year. Congratulations to each of the four winning SuperValu stores and also to each of the finalists. The dedication and hard work of the teams in every store is second to none.”

The finalist stores were judged by Michael Cunningham and were marked on a range of criteria, including overall appearance, innovation and customer service.

James Moriarty from SuperValu Palmerstown accepts the Small / Medium Store Off Licence of the Year Award from John Cassidy of Edward Dillon, Yvonne O’Shaugnessy of Musgrave Retail Partners Ireland, and Tom Gaskin of Santa Rita.

Ronan Dempsey and Jim O’Keefe from SuperValu Bantry are presented with the award for Overall Off Licence of the Year by John Cassidy of Edward Dillon, Yvonne O’Shaugnessy of Musgrave Retail Partners Ireland, and Tom Gaskin of Santa Rita.

Liam Ryan from SuperValu Togher accepts the Performer of the Year Award from by John Cassidy of Edward Dillon, Yvonne O’Shaugnessy of Musgrave Retail Partners Ireland, and Tom Gaskin of Santa Rita.

Peter Hamilton and Nicky Byrne from Pettitt’s SuperValu, St. Aidan’s, Wexford, are presented with the award for Large Store Off Licence of the Year by John Cassidy of Edward Dillon, Yvonne O’Shaugnessy of Musgrave Retail Partners Ireland, and Tom Gaskin of Santa Rita.

Award-winning wines from Chile and Argentina

The new Peak of nicotine pouches

Peak is a new range of nicotine pouches in four flavours, from Hale Vaping.

NICOTINE pouches are one of the fastest growing categories in the tobacco alternatives space, accounting for around 8% of the Irish retail market (ePOS data January to July 2024). Nicotine pouches are a clean, discreet and flavourful way to enjoy nicotine without smoke, vapours or tobacco. The newest product to launch in this category is Peak, invigorating the category and bringing performance in every pouch.

At Peak, it is about providing a hasslefree nicotine experience that fits into consumers’ lifestyle. Their nicotine pouches are designed with quality and user experience in mind. They are crafted to offer a satisfying nicotine kick with smooth flavours that last, fitting seamlessly into consumers’ busy life — whether they're on the go or just prefer a more subtle way to enjoy nicotine.

Brand new nicotine pouch range

From months of testing and research, Peak was born. Curated with the intention of taking the best features of the current nicotine pouch offering and creating the pinnacle of the category, this brand new nicotine pouch range is launching with four incredible flavours, following market trends, and is available in three nicotine strengths - 4mg, 8mg, and 12mg - to

ensure maximum demographic reach.

Peak is made using highquality, food-grade ingredients, and synthetic nicotine from the world's sole FDA-cleared supplier of synthetic nicotine. As a result, the pouches provide a satisfying nicotine kick alongside top-quality and flavour-rich experiences to both new and existing nicotine pouch users alike. These pouches come in the industrystandard slim format at ~29mm wide and ~12mm tall. This allows for a discreet yet comfortable experience when placed under the lip. A unique wet & dry pouch production ensures that users receive both instant & long-lasting satisfaction for up to 30 minutes. Each tin contains 20 pouches.

flavours meet a subtle menthol coolness with every pouch packing a flavourful, fresh punch.

High quality flavours experience

Peak Nicotine Pouches come in four highly sought-after flavours:

Cool Mint is a refreshing blend which delivers a cooling sensation with every use, perfect for a feeling of clean freshness.

• Ice Mint is an intense chill of menthol combined with smooth mint flavours to provide an extra-cold, frosty rush.

• Mixed Berries, where ripe, juicy berry

• Classic Spearmint flavour, balanced with cooling menthol for a smooth, refreshing experience.

Peak pouches have been crafted for those who demand more from life, people who thrive on performance, precision, and efficiency; no interruptions, no distractions, stay sharp, stay energised, and stay in the game.

Contact your Hale/Creative Distribution representative for more details.

If you are buying a security service your provider must be licensed by the PSA even if their primary business is not security.

Electricians, Property & Facilities Management Companies, and others providing security services must be licensed.

Using unlicensed providers puts your business at risk as you could:

•Face Prosecution

•Invalidate your insurance cover

•Compromise the safety of your staff and customers

To ensure that your security provider is licensed with the PSA visit www.psa-gov.ie

Impact Ireland Conference Taking steps on sustainability

Whether you are a leading light or about to take your first steps on your sustainability journey, the stellar speaker line-up at the Impact Ireland 2024 Conference featured practical advice for all FMCG businesses.

THE Impact Ireland 2024 Conference, hosted by POPAI UK & Ireland at the Hilton Hotel Dublin took place on November 14 and featured a fantastic selection of advice and information on how to develop and implement best in class practices for sustainability in all types of businesses based in Ireland, from global brands to SMEs.

Point of Purchase Advertising International (POPAI) was founded in 1936 as an international trade association, and the UK & Ireland chapter began life in 1995; its purpose is to empower its members to innovate at retail. The group is part of the Global Shop Network and the Impact Ireland 2024 Conference was a genuinely inspirational and informative event.

The conference featured presentations from large organisations like Boots Ireland, HP and Diageo, as well as insights from Tap Creative, Verve Live Agency and Future Proof Insights.

Engaged consumer interest

Steve Lister, consultant with POPAI and founder of SteveLister.com, kicked off the morning with a summary of current trends and developments in sustainability and the changing attitudes of consumers and customers.

With 2024 being the hottest year on

record, COP29 being hosted by the World’s 10th largest oil and gas producer, and the upcoming US administration likely to roll back on environmental commitments made by the current incumbent in the White House, you could be forgiven for thinking that a focus by Irish companies on sustainable practices may seem somewhat futile. However, this is not the case, Lister insisted.

He went on to explain that consumers are genuinely engaged with all areas of sustainability, especially 18-24 year-olds and over-55’s. While admitting that the value-action gap, the discrepancy between what consumers say they want to do and what they actually do, is a real challenge for companies to overcome, correct messaging on products and sustainability can be used to improve customer loyalty and help drive sales.

According to Lister, some of the key developments with regards to sustainable practices include the focus on the use of new materials, consideration of end-oflife recyclability and the new guideline that brands and retailers are themselves creating for design, materials and production. In particular, plastic-free, pulp based products, are becoming more regulated and easily recyclable; tree-free products using grass, cocoa husks and

agricultural waste are becoming cheaper to use and more common, and new wastefree 100% recycled and circular designed products are being developed all the time.

The circular economy is one of the key pillars of the most creative approaches to implementing sustainability among global brands and retailers. Not all brands and retailers are at the same point in this journey; some major global brands have done little to adapt to the notion of sustainability, while some smaller SMEs have already made great strides on their journey. If your organisation has been slow to embrace this trend, have no fear as the journey starts with a single step and all you have to do to start becoming a sustainability expert is to pick a single activity you engage in and change it for the better.

Building sustainability into your design Tap Creative duo, Paul Lowry, Design Director, and Julian Esposito, Head of Digital, provided some fascinating examples of how to build sustainability into the design process to make achieving sustainability easy for your organisation and your customer. The customer journey includes pre-store, in-store and poststore experiences, they explained. They revealed that 22% of brands recognise the

Impact Ireland Conference

Martin Kingdon, Insights and Sustainability Director, POPAI UK & Ireland, presents on sustainability benchmarking results.

importance of sustainability and 70% of consumers say sustainability influences their purchases, so brands can tap into this and create healthier business models that work for their own benefit and that of their customers.

The FMCG sector is having to adapt to a variety of issues on sustainability, such as government legislation on areas like the Deposit Return Scheme and upcoming demands to de-carbonise production. Cost is an issue that comes with innovation, however, as two out of five Irish consumers believe that cost is a barrier to purchasing sustainable products. However, by incorporating sustainability at the design stage, brands and companies can look to address these issues more easily and try to minimise associated costs. As designers, Tap Creative’s first tip when it comes to using design to innovate is to do nothing, but simply think about your existing offering, with a view to unlocking existing potential to recycle or re-use your products.

There are a huge number of new sustainable materials that can be used in everything from product displays to packaging. These products, and most importantly how we use and re-use them, can actually introduce efficiencies and cost savings when thought about in the right way and we are seeing brands use them more frequently. Embracing modular principles can help you create displays that are multi-purpose and re-usable, making them much more cost effective than limited use displays that need to be disposed of after use.

Digital has a role to play too, with brands like Ikea using AI systems to introduce

efficiency into stock control and frontend apps like their room planner helping customers to plan better and make more thoughtful purchases, minimising costs and returns. There are also initiatives like providing consumers with suggestions on how to maintain products to maximise their lifespan, reducing turnover, saving customers money and building brand loyalty. The secret to success is to start thinking about sustainability as early as possible in the design stage and adopting the simplest and most cost effective steps first.

Sustainability and marketing: practical advice

One of the most interesting presentations of the day came from Seán Higgins, MD of Future Proof Insights. Seán spoke about some of the pitfalls of sustainability when it comes to marketing. A significant intentionaction gap exists, especially among Gen Z consumers, who will say they want to shop sustainably but often go online and shop like a billionaire on Temu or grab themselves a fast fashion Shein haul. The reality is that sustainability as a headline marketing message is not very successful.

Traditional marketing messages such as quality of product or problem solutions are 10 times more effective at driving sales than a pure sustainability message, Seán argued. When it comes to luxury products, there is evidence that there is more consideration than regularly purchased goods, and here sustainability messaging can help drive sales, but for the majority of products it is better to promote the benefits of your products to the consumer rather than to the world. There is also the so-called ‘Habit Hurdle’ where products that have proven to satisfy consumers on previous purchases are the ones they will habitually purchase. So it is best not to lead with a pure sustainability message when developing a marketing strategy, but to treat that as an added-value benefit.

The Future Proof Insights MD maintained that brand owners should

Seán Higgins, Managing Director, Future Proof Insights, presents ‘Green doesn’t always gleam, sustainability challenges and how to make it work’.

Impact Ireland Conference

focus on immediately relevant benefits rather than abstract, long term geographically and socially distant environmental issues when it comes to actually driving sales. When you do market with a sustainability proposition, if your product formulation reduces air or water pollution, focus on improving the ‘air that you breathe’ or ‘water that you drink’ messaging rather than ‘pollution’ as an abstract notion. If your product reduces greenhouse gas emissions, the benefits can seem too distant. Stop talking about the impact on polar bear ecosystems, and start focusing on the reduction in flooding,

hurricanes / storms or other adverse weather conditions that could affect your customers directly, he stressed, advising attendees to make sure their sustainability messaging is relevant and immediate to your customers and their lives.

Sustainability pays dividends

The conference also featured presentations from large organisations who have made a lot of progress on their sustainability journey, such as Hewlett Packard, Boots Ireland and Diageo. HP, for example made the change away from solvent based printing to a

and Sustainability

presents ‘B-collaborative: Partnership as the key for sustainability’.

Latex based process well over a decade ago and have been globally recognised for their work in driving sustainable practices. They adopted early and were able to invest significant resources into their sustainability journey and this has delivered a number of dividends. Not least among these is how suitable HP printing is to the emerging area of scent marketing, which is becoming a valuable marketing tool and was a benefit that HP did not foresee when they originally made this change, showcasing how a move towards sustainability may place you in pole position for future market changes not even considered yet.

Boots Ireland have brought sustainability to the very heart of the organisation and are also bringing customers with them with innovations such as their scan2recycle app, which helps customers recycle correctly and rewards customers who engage with the app.

Diageo and Verve Live Agency created truly stunning displays at this year’s Electric Picnic that drove brand awareness and loyalty to a key

McNamara, ESG Manager, Boots Ireland, presents ‘ESG at Boots Ireland, development of the ‘E’’.

demographic through modular and reusable displays and bars that not only promoted the brand but also delivered real cost savings to the organisation.

The main message of this conference was that our future lies in focusing on the circular economy and the entire life cycle of products, as well as using the right marketing strategies to promote these products and brands. Whether you are just starting your journey towards sustainability or are far into the process, there is more information and more tools than ever available to help you on that journey and make it as profitable as possible for your organisation and the planet.

Maeve

Event MC Sharon Yourell Lawlor, founder of Think Plan Do Consulting.

Rachel Maher, Society

Manager, Diageo,

SuperValu Signature Tastes Irish Cream

Liqueur Crown Pudding

510g - €17.65/kg

Nordic Spirit

Nordic Spirit reaching new heights

Nordic Spirit continues to grow from strength to strength and is launching a new limited edition Forest Berries flavour just in time for winter.

NORDIC Spirit is going from strength to strength. The fruit-flavour category has seen tremendous growth, with a 184% increase YTD when compared to the previous year (Source: NIQ Ireland Extended Scantrack, Nicotine Pouches Volume YTD 3 Nov 2024 vs PY). To celebrate the end of the year with a bang, Nordic Spirit are releasing a new, limitededition fruit flavour that encapsulates everything they love about winter!

Introducing the second limited edition flavour expansion in Nordic Spirit’s Intense+ range, Forest Berries. Delivering bright, delicious tastes of wild berries combined with blackcurrant, you can expect a fresh and sweet flavour, balanced by a cool and juicy tang for an authentic experience.

Available in Strong, Forest Berries provides the ultimate seasonal sensation, and perfectly complements the existing range of Frosty Mint, Frosty Berry, Sweet Mint and Raspberry, for a portfolio your customers can’t resist.

Forest Berries is launching just in time for winter. Be quick though; it will only be available for a limited time, so make the most of it while it stock lasts!

Modern and satisfying nicotine experience

Nordic Spirit are dedicated to enriching the lives of their consumers seeking a modern and satisfying nicotine experience. Their Intense+ Flavours offer a distinctly bold and refreshing approach, delivering the ultimate balance of invigorating freshness and exceptional taste.

Explore their icy-fresh Frosty Mint, juicy and cooling Frosty Berry, sharp yet balanced Sweet Mint, and fruity, tangy Raspberry. Each flavour is crafted to provide a dynamic nicotine experience that’s smoother, softer, and more comfortable than ever before, thanks to their optimised pouch format.

With improved flavour profiles and faster nicotine release,

Nordic Spirit’s Intense+ range includes Frosty Berry and Sweet Mint flavours.

consumers can enjoy a stronger, more refreshing experience. For those new to the range or seeking a lighter start, they recommend beginning with a lower strength to find the perfect fit.

Even the packaging reflects Nordic Spirit’s commitment to excellence; modern, sleek, and portable, with smoother edges and a slimmer can size that’s easy to carry and convenient to use.

This is Nordic Spirit at its very best; refreshingly bold, exceptionally refined, and crafted for the ultimate nicotine experience. Discover Nordic Spirit, Refreshed. Discover more at www.nordicspirit.ie

Retail Ireland: Monthly Update

Consumers remain cautious on spending plans

WITH a new government taking charge, the economic backdrop is relatively positive for retail. Employment remains strong, the economy is growing, inflation is low and interest rates are set to fall further. All of this would seem likely to bolster consumer confidence and increase retail spending.

This is true, but only to a point. The last year has seen retail spending improve, but often not at the same rate as growth in the wider economy. We are up on last year, but not by much.

Consumer confidence a key indicator

Consumer confidence is an interesting indicator of how and where people are likely to spend their money. According to the monthly Credit Union Consumer Sentiment Index, there has been an improvement in 2024. However, perhaps not as much as might have been expected.

The legacy of the cost-of-living crisis and high inflation has left its toll. There seems to be a significant lag in terms of how the economy is performing and the recovery in consumer spending behaviour.

This has been a real challenge for businesses, which have had to manage a surge in labour market costs well ahead of wider inflation trends across the economy. At the same time, those that are spending are not necessarily doing it in the way they used to.

There has been a marked increase in spending on experiences as opposed to on goods and this is happening at a time when there is already intense competition and significant disruption in many parts of retail.

New government must address key challenges for retail Ireland’s retail sector faces significant challenges, including rising labour costs, skills shortages, security concerns, and the need to put in place more sustainable practices.

In the run-up to the recent election, Retail Ireland focused on four key priorities when talking to the range of political parties about

their manifesto proposals. The task now is to ensure these translate into meaningful new measures.

Focused action on labour costs, workforce skills, town centre safety and sustainability will be essential to securing a resilient and competitive retail sector.

• Control labour costs: Rising labour costs challenge retailers’ ability to balance budgets and retain staff. A ‘Competitiveness Charter’ that caps annual increases in labour-related costs would keep these costs aligned with competitor economies. Additionally, a Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI) rebate for businesses with a large proportion of lower-wage roles would further stabilise costs, helping retailers protect jobs and manage operational budgets effectively.

• Invest in retail skills: A skilled and adaptable workforce is essential for retailers as consumer demands evolve. Expanding the National Training Fund and introducing a National Training Voucher scheme would enable continuous upskilling, equipping employees with vital digital and customer service skills. The Retail Ireland Skillnet and Apprenticeship programme has a track record in delivering quality training for the sector and should benefit from such an initiative.

• Prioritise safety and security in urban centres: Rising security concerns in town and city centres impact both retail operations and customer confidence. Increased funding for urban safety, including enhanced policing and crime prevention, would help to address these issues directly. Investment in public transport and the public realm would also help create vibrant, secure shopping areas, boosting local economies and retail footfall.

• Support retail’s sustainability transition: Aligning with national climate goals, the retail sector needs a stable, affordable energy supply. To do this we need to accelerate the roll-out of low-cost renewable generation and storage technologies and tackle network inefficiencies.

Tel: 01-6051558 | www.retailireland.ie

Need more?

2024 in Retailing:

The Highs and Lows - Ireland’s leading retail groups report on a busy but challenging year.

Spar’s proud tradition of innovation

Spar has been innovating in convenience retailing, serving customers and supporting communities for over six decades.

INNOVATION is at the very centre of Spar’s offering. For more than 60 years, Spar retailers have been serving and, in equal measure, delighting customers in towns, villages and city centres throughout Ireland. It is the diverse nature of Spar’s customer base that feeds and drives the innovative spirit of its independent retailers.

Spar, for example, spotted the desire for customers to have access to premium coffee-on-the-go and was the first brand to introduce that to a retail convenience space. To say it revolutionised the industry would be an understatement. Similarly, Spar’s foodservice offering is industry-leading, and isn’t afraid to change and innovate with customer favourites. This innovative spirit is the genesis behind the recent first-to-market launch of the Spar Chicken Fillet Gravy Dunker. Leveraging global trends that have seen a rise in popularity of dunking pots across both sweet and savoury menus in restaurants, Spar is again leading the way in Irish retail in being the first retailer to launch a dunking pot in the retail foodservice space to complement the Chicken Fillet Roll, which of course Spar made famous.

This new-to-market offering is complemented by existing concepts such as I-Scream, All Day Food Bar, Peking, and a plant-based fillet roll, which have all been introduced to the marketplace by Spar and add to its reputation for setting the standards and leading trends in retail foodservice. Spar is not afraid to introduce new concepts to the market, and does so to both meet consumer trends and, indeed, to set them and stay ahead of them. Crucially, Spar is also quick to recognise when some

Donnelly, Spar Sales Director.

concepts might not be meeting consumers’ tastes and is quick to replace them with something new.

Community & partnership

There exists a massive trust between Spar and Spar retailers, which has been built up over the more than six decades Spar has been serving customers and servicing communities throughout Ireland. It is a brand synonymous with community and Spar’s continuing resonance with the Irish consumer is based on the fact that each Spar store is independently owned and operated by the local shopkeeper, who invariably lives in the locality and is part of that very community. Irish people like to support their local independent entrepreneurs, who are also their neighbours. Those relationships are absolutely critical to the ongoing success of Spar, as are the relationships between Spar retailers and BWG Foods, the owners of the Spar brand in Ireland.

That relationship between the wholesaler and independent retailer is one of trust and loyalty, combined with a strong sense of partnership. Spar retailers rely on the brand owner to support their entrepreneurial spirit, which is the foundation for the strong relationships that exist. As a brand, Spar thrives when its

retailers are successful and it is imperative that every retailer is supported in whatever they need.

There is no “one solution” approach to any of the challenges retailers may face, which is why Spar’s highly qualified and enthusiastic team of Retail Operations Advisors (ROA) are always available to support and guide their retailers. Their

Sales Director: Colin Donnelly

Number of stores nationwide: 400+

Typical store size: varies

Head office: BWG House, Greenhills Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24, D24 Y722

Wholesale partner: BWG Foods

Type of distribution network: BWG National Distribution Centre (NDC) servicing fresh, ambient and alcohol to all Spar stores nationwide.

Website: www.spar.ie

Social media: Facebook@SparIreland; Instagram: @spar_ireland; X (formerly Twitter): @SparIreland; Tik Tok: sparireland

Tagline: ‘Under the Tree at Spar’

Colin

Retail Groups Report

Spar’s foodservice offering is industry-leading, and isn’t afraid to change and innovate with customer favourites.

goal is to help Spar retailers grow their business, to advise and support them in whatever way they can.

Pushing retail standards internationally

Another area where Spar differentiates

itself is how the brand is renowned for being at the forefront of pushing retail standards internationally and regularly wins top international awards, particularly in the field of convenience retailing. Spar Ireland is recognised internationally as

Spar has been serving customers and servicing communities throughout Ireland for more than 60 years.

a trendsetter and frequently hosts study tours from the 48 worldwide nations who are eager to learn from the Spar Ireland model and how Ireland, for such a relatively small country, can have so many different types of store formats, serving different demographics, but all with a commonality when it comes to look and feel.

As well as its award-winning store design, Spar also works tirelessly to drive brand awareness and show support for local stores through high-profile sponsorships and brand ambassadors, complemented by advertising campaigns that resonate with shoppers. Spar’s awardwinning Christmas television advert is an annual highlight for shoppers and this year (2024), Spar is also excited to sponsor the annual Spar Christmas FM Song Contest.

Pictured at the launch of Spar’s sponsorship of Christmas FM Streaming and the Spar Christmas FM Song Contest were Garvan Rigby, co-founder of Christmas FM, and Colin Donnelly, Spar Sales Director.

When your brand tagline is ‘Under the Tree’, Christmas is a very important time of year!

The core of Spar remains steadfastly the community-centric approach to all activity and the community ethos. Spar takes its responsibilities to the wider community very seriously, which is why initiatives such as the Spar Community Fund and Spar’s Stay in the Game with Ireland’s double Olympic gold medal winner Kellie Harrington are so important to the brand and its retailers. Spar’s ongoing commitment of giving back to local communities and their customers remains steadfast and is synonymous with the brand and its nationwide network of retailers.

Retail Groups Report

Eurospar continues to look to the future

Eurospar’s network of family-owned supermarkets have community at their core.

EUROSPAR Supermarkets and their network of retailers have a common desire that permeates everything they do, which is to provide high quality, fresh and nutritious food to the communities their retailers operate in. That mission means that Eurospar is constantly seeking new ways for retailers to grow, improve and become the family shopping destination of choice for the families of Ireland.

It is the ambition behind Eurospar’s overarching and unique brand positioning of being ‘Your Supereasy Supermarket’, which speaks directly to the sense of community that every Eurospar retailer possesses and the passion with which they serve their customers. The Eurospar promise to customers is to continue to focus on delivering increased fresh and grocery options to better fulfil their family shopping needs. This strategy will thereby increase average spend, improve overall store turnover and, therefore, grow retailer profitability.

Eurospar is able to achieve this for its retailers in many ways and with supports such as its 24-hour ordering platform, Shoplink POS, facilitating a next day delivery on orders from its centrally located National Distribution Centre, or from one of the 22 strategically located nationwide network of Cash & Carry branches.

Through its parent company, BWG Foods, Eurospar offers retailers access to

an award-winning logistics and distribution service, as well as affording them the benefit from BWG’s relationships with more than 650 key suppliers across the island of Ireland and, indeed, internationally.

Innovative spirit

The current Eurospar strategy was revealed to retailers in 2023, and its dual focus of retailer profitability and enhanced shopper experience continues to motivate and inspire. Retailers are at the very heart of Eurospar’s mission, and their customers are at the heart of every Eurospar retailer. They are forever linked and, cognisant of the responsibilities associated with being ‘Your Supereasy Supermarket’, Eurospar is constantly innovating, with new ranges designed to delight and excite all Eurospar customers.

Commitment to the community and environment

It is this innovative spirit that encourages retailers to partake in initiatives such as Eurospar Deli Innovation Days, hosted in BWG Foods’ dedicated Innovation Centre, North Dublin, as part of their commitment to their customers. These events focus on new deli product ranges across hot, cold and pre-pack and showcase the determination to provide the communities in which they are embedded with the best service possible in concert with everything they expect from a community supermarket that is convenient to its location and an attractive shopping environment.

The responsibility to local communities and the environment goes beyond the doors of each ‘Supereasy Supermarket’ and is one Eurospar retailers are particularly passionate about. It is this dedication that has prompted Eurospar’s commitment to Responsible Retailing, encompassing a wide array of sustainability initiatives designed to build on the progress already delivered. Complementing these initiatives is a robust community programme, including Eurospar’s ‘Let’s Celebrate Community’ campaign, which is designed to shine a spotlight on those within the community who go above and beyond to provide for their locality. Eurospar shoppers

Peter Dwan, Eurospar Sales Director.

Sales Director: Peter Dwan

Number of stores nationwide: 51

Typical store size: 450-1200 square metres

Head office: BWG House, Greenhills Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24, D24 Y722

Wholesale partner: BWG Foods

Type of distribution network: BWG National Distribution Centre (NDC) servicing fresh, ambient and alcohol to all Eurospar supermarkets nationwide.

Website: www.eurospar.ie

Social media: Facebook: @ eurosparireland, Instagram: @ eurospar_ireland

Tagline: Your Supereasy Supermarket

are encouraged to nominate a group or person within their community for special recognition, with those chosen sharing in a nationwide fund.

Eurospar has also been the proud sponsor of Junk Kouture since 2023. Junk Kouture is the world’s largest sustainable fashion competition for young people. Junk Kouture has revolutionised how society views recycled goods and made sustainability exciting for younger people in Ireland, which speaks directly to Eurospar’s own ambitions.

Eurospar also works closely with its official charity partner, National Breast Cancer Research Institute (NBCRI). The NBCRI was founded 35 years ago and is a national charity that focuses on the development and improvement of diagnostic techniques and treatment

Retail Groups Report

Eurospar provides high quality, fresh and nutritious food to the communities their retailers operate in.

The Eurospar promise to customers is to continue to focus on delivering increased fresh and grocery options to better fulfil their family shopping needs.

strategies, to drive real and measurable improvement in clinical outcomes for breast cancer patients. Eurospar retailers raise much-needed funds through instore collections, contributions from the sale of select Spar own brand products and other fundraising efforts, through their countrywide network of stores and community initiatives. The NBCRI also avails of the retail network as a powerful platform to raise public awareness across Ireland.

Ultimately, at its core, Eurospar is a network of local family-owned supermarkets with a desire to provide for their communities in every possible way, while also driving sales and maximising retailer profitability. As Sales Director, Peter Dwan explains: “Our promotions, our values, our sponsorships and ultimately our retail partnerships make Eurospar ‘Your Supereasy Supermarket’.”

Pictured are (l-r): Lourda McHugh, Director, National Breast Cancer Research Institute (NBCRI); Emily O’Shea, who is wearing her own specially commissioned Junk Kouture outfit made from old materials provided by NBCRI; Claire O’Brien, Eurospar Marketing Manager; and Peter Dwan, Eurospar Sales Director.

Retail Groups Report

Mace continues to grow and thrive in the industry

With a deep presence in communities nationwide, Mace leads the way when it comes to convenience, product range, value and customer service.

EARLIER this year, Mace introduced an ambitious new growth strategy, revealed against the stunning backdrop of the Europe Hotel in Killarney. This strategy is aimed at boosting shopper volume, enhancing store profitability, and further establishing Mace as a prominent leading retail brand in Ireland. Supported by a major €35 million investment from BWG Foods, these plans mark a bold step forward in Mace’s mission to further strengthen its position in the market.

Mace’s continued growth and resilience rest on the high standards its retailers maintain across Ireland. With a deep presence in communities nationwide, Mace leads in convenience, product range, value and customer service. Strong partnerships with retailers who take pride in their service create a solid foundation for success, helping Mace to stand out in a competitive market.

Mace is led by Sales Director Keith Crawford, who was appointed in 2023 to drive the development and implementation of the new business strategy, in collaboration with the Mace Retail Council. Mace's position within the grocery retail

Director.

sector has never been stronger and forward momentum continues to be driven by the brand’s spirit of innovation and ability to provide cutting-edge digital solutions and practical supports to generate efficiencies, simplify systems, and maximise profitability for retailers. This innovative and collaborative culture

is at the core of Mace's success, with a commitment to reaching new heights and striving for higher standards in supporting store owners. The outstanding success of the Mace network reflects the steadfast dedication of its retailers and the increasing strength of the brand itself.

Significantly, convenience retailing remains a people-centred business, and Mace is thriving thanks to a network of highly motivated, ambitious retailers eager to expand both the brand and their own businesses, all while working in partnership with BWG Foods.

The backing of BWG Foods strengthens Mace's support for retailers, providing access to exclusive brands, premium products, sustainable distribution, and cutting-edge technology like the Shoplink online platform for streamlined ordering and inventory management. Mace’s dedicated Retail Operations Advisory team offers best-in-class retail advice and support, which is underpinned by the Mace Excellence Standards programme. This equips retailers with the resources and skills to maintain high standards across all store areas.

Keith Crawford, Mace Sales

Convenience & value

As customers become increasingly mindful of their spending, Mace’s commitment to convenience and value has never been more relevant. Fresh food options, including ‘for food’s sake Deli’, quality coffee stations, along with modern design, bring value and choice to customers. Expanding off licence options, with a wide selection of local and international brands, also ensure that Mace meets the preferences of a diverse range of customers.

At Mace, the people and culture drive progress. Mace has its own dedicated learning platform, ‘ULearn’, which provides employees with the skillset needed to work in a variety of roles throughout the store. Mace also has access to a practical training centre located in Value Centre North Road. The NextGen Entrepreneurs programme was created to foster growth and prepare the next generation of retail leaders. With the integrated Hire-2-Retire (H2R) digital platform, Mace has revolutionised

recruitment, training, payroll, scheduling and HR processes, offering a streamlined approach that benefits both retailers and employees.

The Sexton effect

To strengthen its brand presence, Mace has created impactful advertising campaigns with brand ambassador and national sports hero, Johnny Sexton. A range of campaigns involving the popular ambassador, such as the ‘Mace Right Options Coach Johnny’ series, resonate extremely well with shoppers as they seek ways to take a healthier approach to their lifestyle. These award-winning campaigns demonstrate the strength of the partnership with Sexton and the positive impact it has with shoppers. Through that long-standing relationship with Johnny, Mace has partnered with Debra as its charity partner. Fundraising activity such as ‘Mace Run to 40 for Debra’, as well as donations from the sale of Mace own brand products, raise much-needed funds for Debra to support their work

Sales Director: Keith Crawford

Number of stores nationwide: 150+

Typical store size: Varies

Head office: BWG House, Greenhills Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24, D24 Y722

Wholesale partner: BWG Foods

Type of distribution network: BWG

National Distribution Centre, (NDC) servicing fresh, ambient and alcohol to all Mace stores nationwide. Website: www.mace.ie

Social media: www.facebook.com/ MaceIreland/ www.instagram.com/mace_ireland/ twitter.com/MaceIreland www.youtube.com/@maceireland8951 www.tiktok.com/@mace_ireland

that aims to empower people affected by epidermolysis bullosa (EB), often referred to as ‘butterfly skin’, which is a debilitating, excruciating and relentless disease with no known cure.

Additionally, Mace continues to prioritise meaningful community support through initiatives like the ‘Mace Unsung Heroes’ programme, where people can nominate

Expanding off licence options, with a wide selection of local and international brands, ensure that Mace meets the preferences of a diverse range of customers.

someone in their community who goes the extra mile to make a difference for their locality. The ‘Mace Food Too Good to Waste’ programme shares useful and simple ways for their shoppers to get more from their food, resulting in reduced food waste, and is good for the pocket too. Through these initiatives, Mace continues to make a positive difference in the lives of customers, retailers and communities throughout Ireland.

Mace’s ‘for food’s sake Deli’: bringing value and choice to customers.

Health-and-performance nutritionist Laura Kealy and Mace ambassador Johnny Sexton, pictured at the launch of the latest ‘Mace Right Options’ campaign.

Londis lighting up the market

Londis stores are owned and run by locals, which combined with excellence in international best practice standards, gives them an edge in the marketplace.

EVER since the 1950s, Londis retailers have played a vital role in their local communities, adapting to the evolving needs of customers in villages, towns and cities throughout Ireland. Londis have carefully sharpened the concept of providing ranges that are tailored to the very needs of each individual community, knowing that no two stores and their customers are the same.

There are currently 140 Londis stores serving local communities and families all around the country.

Londis has continued to celebrate the individuality of the communities it serves,

and the entrepreneurs that own and run Londis stores too. Every Londis store is owned and run by locals, while operating to international best practice standards, giving it an edge in the marketplace.

As well as offering uncompromisingly friendly customer service, quality produce and excellent value, Londis stores have an extra special something that only local people can deliver.

Local Like You

Under the banner of ‘Local Like You’, Londis has developed diverse product ranges, including high-quality food-to-go and beverage options, and innovative store designs that cater to all retail formats, from community stores to main street retailers and forecourt operations.

Central to Londis' community connection is the creation of meaningful local jobs and support for local suppliers. Londis retailers take great pride in their contributions to regional enterprise and their excellence in the grocery retail sector.

Londis continues to support local retailers in delivering retail excellence by providing market-leading resources and support through their dedicated team of Regional Development Managers (RDMs). These close working relationships are aligned with the shared goal of consistently meeting local community needs, while safeguarding margins and improving

profitability, all evidenced by Londis outperforming the market in 2023.

A key area of focus for Londis retailers is their fresh, food-to-go offerings and the Bia Blás Deli is a strong component of this offering, as are BWG house brands such as the Bord-Bia approved meat brand, Inishella, and the recently revamped chilled convenience food range, Fresh Choice

Sales Director: Conor Hayes

Number of stores nationwide: 140

Typical store size: Varies

Head office: BWG House, Greenhills Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24, D24 Y722

Wholesale partner: BWG Foods

Type of distribution network: BWG National Distribution Centre, (NDC) servicing fresh, ambient and alcohol to all Londis stores nationwide.

Website: www.londis.ie

Social media: @LondisIreland on X (formerly) Twitter, Instagram and Facebook; @londisirelandofficial on TikTok.

Tagline: Local Like You

Conor Hayes, Londis Sales Director.

Retail Groups Report

Under the banner of ‘Local Like You’, Londis has developed diverse product ranges, including high-quality food-to-go and beverage options, and innovative store designs that cater to all retail formats.

Kitchen. Produced in Ireland by local suppliers, all of which are fully accredited and award-winning in their own right, Fresh Choice Kitchen offers a significant sales opportunity for retailers, as shoppers seek out convenient, fresh meal solutions that taste great. The range already includes soups, traditional ready meals, ethnic ready meals, fresh pizzas, and vegetable sides, with plans for some exciting new product launches.

Londis has also made significant progress in catering to the evolving needs

of consumers, with confectionery, soft drinks and off-licence offers. This reflects Londis' ongoing commitment to innovation, excellent service and value for customers, with retailer profitability at the forefront.

Londis Ireland also works closely with its network of retailers to predict and manage business challenges. Thanks to these efforts, Londis retailers have shown strong resilience in the face of rising business costs, including higher wages, fluctuating energy bills, and expanding regulatory requirements. Londis has made substantial

progress in addressing these challenges through collective solutions, focusing on enhancing retailer competitiveness.

Londis has also led the market with some of the most compelling promotions afforded to consumers across product lines that continue to drive consumer interest and footfall. This has all been underpinned by the ‘Local Like You’ brand campaign, which continues to deliver online and offline for the Londis brand.

Key sponsorships and charity partnerships

Londis continues to excel in marketing and advertising, building on previous successes. The renewal of the Ireland's Fittest Family sponsorship highlights Londis' strong community focus and alignment with values of family and community. This partnership also provides a platform for retailers to promote a healthy and active lifestyle, something which is increasingly important to a growing cohort of Londis customers.

Brand development at both store and national levels has always been a key strength of Londis, contributing to the positive affinity consumers have for the brand. The activation of the Londis brand is closely tied to its values and the proposition of the Londis store network, whether through community giving or promoting healthy living. Alongside its award-winning sponsorship of Ireland’s Fittest Family, which recently garnered Londis the European Sponsorship Award 2024 for Best Media Sponsorship, Londis continues to positively impact communities across Ireland through the support of its national charity partner, the Irish Hospice Foundation. This partnership reflects Londis' ongoing commitment to supporting vital services for those in need. Londis is proud to partner with such an important organisation, chosen by Londis retailers nationwide.

Most recently, Londis supported the Irish Hospice Foundation by way of a Coffee Morning initiative, whereby local participating Londis stores offered a cup of coffee and some tasty treats in support of a cause that helps provide crucial end-of-life care and bereavement support to families across Ireland. Londis is confident that the group is making a real difference to its communities through its support of this important charity.

Londis is also confident in its ingredients for continued success, with a strong business strategy, a network of incredibly entrepreneurial retailers, and a brand that is universally loved across Ireland.

There are currently 140 Londis stores serving local communities and families all around the country.

Retail Groups Report

XL’s excellent year

XL is one of the fastest growing brands in the market, offering ambitious retailers a flexible, market leading package which enables them to tailor their shop to consumer needs.

THE strong growth of the XL retail symbol brand across the Irish landscape is a powerful vote of confidence in what the brand offers and, of course, in the nationwide network of XL retailers who proudly fly the flag.

XL is recognised for providing outstanding service in the communities in which it operates. XL retailers are fulsomely embraced by their local communities because they truly embody the spirit of the XL brand by offering their customers “a great deal more at your local store”. Indeed, they offer so much more to their communities, including being a focal hub for those communities. Just like

‘An Siopa XL’ in the wonderful Ros na Rún, XL stores are invariably a vibrant part of everyday life. As well as providing essential goods and services to their customers, XL retailers contribute in so many ways which are truly appreciated by their communities.

The impressive growth and evolution of XL is directly linked to how well XL retailers know their customer base, complemented by their willingness to grow and expand their offering. This is particularly evidenced in the increasing number of full off licences within the estate. XL is a brand that is ever growing and ever evolving but whose core ideals and aspirations remain the same: to serve the communities in which they are embedded. With an increased customer demand for off licence offerings, XL retailers are embracing this growing trend. The willingness to adapt and meet customer demand continues to attract substantial interest, with both new and existing independent retailers looking to join one of Ireland’s truly progressive retail symbol brands.

XL, and XL retailers, also benefit from strong investment from its parent company, BWG Foods. This includes BWG Foods house brands such as Inishella and the

recently rebranded Fresh Choice Kitchen range, which offers shoppers convenient, fresh meal solutions that taste great. The range already includes soups, traditional ready meals, ethnic ready meals, fresh pizzas, and vegetable sides, and there are some exciting new product launches coming down the line.

These additions enable XL retailers to tailor their shop to ever changing consumer

Paul Bealin, BWG Foods Cash and Carry Sales Director.

Retail Groups Report

With an increased customer demand for off licence offerings, XL retailers are embracing this growing trend.

needs and support the growth of their business and are backboned by a range and distribution offering that is second to none. XL retailers benefit from an industryleading chill offer, which is facilitated by BWG’s national distribution centre and complemented by a nationwide network of 22 strategically located Value Centre Cash & Carry facilities that allow for individual store deliveries up to three times a week. From a retailer perspective, XL offers retailers the opportunity to own their own business, pursue their entrepreneurial spirit as an independent retailer and

become embedded in a community. XL also offers independent retailers a mutually beneficial partnership opportunity in which the key objective is to maximise retail sales and margins. Complementing these ambitions, XL offers ambitious retailers a flexible, market leading package which enables them to tailor their shop to consumer needs and react quickly to changing market conditions and help grow their business.

Dedication to retailers

What also helps set XL retail apart is a

XL is a brand that is ever growing and ever evolving but whose core ideals and aspirations remain the same: to serve the communities in which they are embedded.

true dedication to its retailer base, which is backboned by a sales and support team that is passionate about retailing and prides itself on the excellent customer service offered to its retailers. XL’s experienced team of Development Managers work in a very personal way to ensure every single XL retailer receives the support and advice they need regarding business and financial advice, how to make the most of current market trends, store development and standards monitoring. Through BWG Foods, XL also supports its retailer base with competitive Affinity Deals and access to specialist Fresh Food Advisory teams, along with industry-leading marketing and promotional support.

The success of the XL retail brand within the industry continues to elicit justifiable pride in the performance of the brand itself. These attributes, underpinned by a robust XL Retail Standards Programme, promote outstanding industry excellence in the symbol brand. This programme is supported by a comprehensive programme of inspections and audits carried out by Ireland’s leading Retail Audit company, SMA Retail Specialists, ensuring that XL store standards meet consumer needs.

This combination is perfectly positioned to champion the XL retailer and the eclectic mix of customers who rely on the service provided. While primarily recognised as having a very strong rural base, XL is also quickly growing its footprint in more urban settings and there are exciting plans for continued growth in 2025.

Sales Director: Paul Bealin

Number of stores nationwide: 230+

Typical store size: 110 square metres

Head office: BWG Foods UC, BWG House, Greenhills Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24

Wholesale partner: Value Centre

Type of distribution network: 22 Value Centre and Cash & Carry branches nationwide and chill distribution.

Website: www.xlstores.ie

Social media: www.facebook.com/ XLIreland/

Tagline: ‘A great deal more at your local store’

Super year for SuperValu

2024 was a superb year for SuperValu.

SUPERVALU enjoyed a super-busy 2024, with high profile sponsorships, multiple award wins and the appointment of a new Managing Director amongst the many highlights.

January brought the news that Cork’s iconic GAA stadium, Páirc Uí Chaoimh, was being renamed SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, as part of a new 10-year partnership. SuperValu also sponsors the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship and the Cork Senior Ladies’ Football team, as well as supporting clubs in every community around the country.

Ian Allen, then SuperValu Managing Director, described the partnership as “a natural fit for SuperValu, which, like the GAA, is at the heart of communities across Ireland. SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh is an iconic Cork location with nationwide reach, attracting national audiences to the exciting matches and entertainment on offer.”

SuperValu Store of the Year February saw the SuperValu National Conference held in the Great Southern Hotel, Killarney, where the winners of the SuperValu Store of the Year awards were announced. Pettitt’s SuperValu, St Aidan’s, in Wexford town, Co. Wexford, were crowned winner of the prestigious ‘National SuperValu Store of the Year’ for 2024, as well as taking home the ‘Best Large

SuperValu Store of the Year’ award.

Store owner, Cormac Pettitt paid tribute to their dedicated team and the ongoing support of the store’s loyal customers: “This national award is brilliant recognition for the amazing team in our St Aidan’s store. We have over 160 loyal and dedicated employees, who take great pride in providing our customers with a world class shopping experience day in and day out. 21 of these employees have been with us for more than 20 years. We are thrilled to bring this award back home to Wexford.”

The Best Medium Store Award went to Quish’s SuperValu Tramore, while McGuinness’ & Cosgrove’s SuperValu Strokestown was named Best Small Store.

SuperValu Food Academy

The SuperValu Food Academy programme celebrated its 11th year in 2024. A unique and tailored business development initiative for start-up and early-stage producers, which is supported by SuperValu and the Local Enterprise Office, the programme has provided over 1,000 producers from all 26 counties of Ireland with a unique opportunity to showcase their innovative products on SuperValu shelves all year round. Since its inception in 2013, Food Academy producers have collectively generated €230 million in product sales within SuperValu, supporting 1,500 jobs in the economy.

“The Food Academy is a brilliant partnership between SuperValu and the Local Enterprise Office, which continues to go from strength to strength since its inception 11 years ago,” noted Ciara

title of Nationwide SuperValu Store of the Year for 2024.

McClafferty, Trading Director, SuperValu. “Through this programme, producers are given an excellent opportunity to gain invaluable experience, while being given exposure in SuperValu stores throughout the country. At SuperValu, support of local and Irish producers is in our DNA, and our involvement in Food Academy further emphasises our dedication to fostering local talent and businesses within the food industry.”

SuperValu also continued their partnership with Grow It Yourself (GIY) on the ‘Let’s Grow’ programme, which was rolled out to primary schools, who received free seeds, compost discs, knowledge guides and tools. Ray Kelly, SuperValu Marketing Director, said, “Our partnership with GIY is incredibly important, as we look to highlight the importance and benefit of growing your own food at home.” NagleRice National School, in Killorglin, Co. Kerry, was revealed as the 2024 winner of thie 2024 ‘Let’s Grow’ initiative, with the green-fingered pupils creating a sensory garden, named Tadgh’s Garden, in memory of a past pupil.

New Managing Director

Luke Hanlon took over as SuperValu Managing Director on a permanent basis in August, having been leading the business on an interim basis since March. A Musgrave veteran of 21 years, Luke held senior operational roles with Kerry Group before joining the Company in 2003 as an Operations Manager, and immediately prior to his appointment as MD was Musgrave’s

Luke Hanlon was appointed Managing Director of SuperValu in August 2024, having been in the role on an interim basis since March.

Pictured at the 2024 SuperValu Conference, at the Great Southern Killarney are Cormac Pettitt and Nicky Byrne, from Pettitt’s SuperValu, St Aidan’s, Wexford, who won the much-coveted

Pictured at the launch of the Food Academy 2024 are previous participants Gerry Scullion, King of Kefir; Dee Schroeder, GoodBrew Coffee; and Erica Sheehan, Homespun; alongside Food Academy Project Manager, Carmel Biggane.

Chief Supply Chain Officer.

Musgrave CEO Noel Keeley said that Luke’s appointment “reflects the success he has had across multiple roles with Musgrave, ranging from supply chain, to transformation, and subsequently human resources” and that the business will benefit from his “wealth of knowledge and proven leadership”.

The newly appointed Managing Director said: “What sets SuperValu and Centra apart is not just our rich heritage in food and brand innovation, but our unique network of independent retail partners across Ireland.”

Investing in stores and products

Investment in stores continued across the country, with two of the most high profile being Twohig’s SuperValu Kanturk and SuperValu in Mayfield, Co. Cork, the latter part of a €1 million investment in the Cork store, now owned by Tom Higgins.

Following Musgrave Group’s acquisition of Clean Cut Meats, SuperValu stores saw the expansion of their high quality, healthy ready meal range, further enhancing the healthy meals offering available to SuperValu customers, in what is a rapidly growing category of the market.

“Customers are increasingly seeking healthy, tasty and convenient meal offerings, and we have invested heavily in developing our market-leading offering in this category,” noted Luke Hanlon, SuperValu Managing Director. “The acquisition of Clean Cut Meals will build further on this investment, as SuperValu continually seeks to innovate and enhance its offering in order to meet the needs of

our customers in communities all across Ireland.”

Huge number of award wins SuperValu’s quality range enjoyed a stellar year, picking up a host of awards. SuperValu took home 113 awards at this year’s Great Taste Awards, highlighting the outstanding taste and superior quality of the premium and own brand range products. SuperValu’s premium Signature Tastes range picked up 60 awards. This range is carefully selected for its exceptional quality and all sourced from SuperValu’s trusted partners across the island of Ireland.

SuperValu’s exceptional quality and commitment to excellence is evident in the eight products that earned the highly sought after 3-star award, including: SuperValu Seeded Round Brown Soda Bread, SuperValu Signature Tastes Smoked

SuperValu took home 113 awards at this year’s Great Taste Awards.

Rack of Bacon, SuperValu Signature Tastes Taleggio Cheese, SuperValu Signature Tastes Gorgonzola Cheese, SuperValu Signature Tastes Comte Cheese, SuperValu Signature Tastes Riojan Chorizo Cular, SuperValu Crème Fraiche and SuperValu Signature Tastes Applewood Smoked Salmon.

Subsequently, SuperValu producers then took home no fewer than 102 awards at the Blás na hÉireann awards, held in Dingle, Co. Kerry, in October. 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 included 29 Gold, 21 Silver, and 32 Bronze awards, along with several speciality categories. SuperValu’s Signature Tastes and own brand range took home a total of 38 awards. Food Academy producers also celebrated a fantastic year, collecting an impressive 64 awards, including ‘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.

“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.

SuperValu TidyTowns

The SuperValu TidyTowns competition continues to be one of the retailer’s most important sponsorships, and longestrunning, with SuperValu sponsoring the national competition since 1991. This year saw Ballincollig, Co. Cork, take the overall prize at a ceremony in Croke Park on November 1.

SuperValu serves over 2.9 million customers every week and has 221 stores nationwide. Together with its retail partners, SuperValu employs approximately 16,000 colleagues, making it one of the State’s largest private-sector employers. SuperValu continues to source locally wherever possible, which helps to sustain 30,000 jobs in the Irish economy. SuperValu sources 100% of it is fresh meat and poultry from Bord Bia approved farms and over 1,800 Irish suppliers.

Centra shines in 2024

The recent Pride of Centra awards capped off a wonderful year for the convenience retailer.

GARVEY’S Centra Newcastlewest, Co. Limerick, was awarded the prestigious title of ‘National Centra Store of the Year’ for 2024, being officially recognised as the top Centra in Ireland.

The award was presented at the Pride of Centra awards, Centra’s national award ceremony, which celebrated 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 awards, which took place in the Dublin Royal Convention Centre on November 6.

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. Throughout the judging process, the team’s dedication to high standards and their innovative approach in the food-to-go section stood out. Following a major revamp in 2023, the store broadened its selection of top-quality offerings in the Deli and Bakery to better serve the local community. To enhance the customer experience, the store introduced a more seamless shopping experience, featuring an expanded food-to-go range paired with quicker transactions at selfscan checkouts.

Garvey’s also took home the Store of the Year award in the Hi-Convenience category, while other winners included Jordan’s Centra Caragh Village, Co. Kildare, who were named Store of the Year in the Convenience category, and Cosgrove’s Centra Maugheraboy, Co. Sligo, who won Store of the Year in the Neighbourhood category.

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 Off Licence of the Year award, sponsored

by Diageo, was awarded to Dunne’s Centra Stamullen, Co. Meath.

“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,” revealed Luke Hanlon, Managing Director of Centra.

“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.

Congratulations to store manager Margaret Ryan and the team at Garvey's Centra Newcastlewest for winning Centra Store of the Year 2024; this accolade is a testament to the outstanding standards, commitment, and service they offer to the Newcastlewest community every day. Independently audited and awarded through a highly competitive process, this achievement is a true mark of excellence within the convenience retail industry. Well done to everyone involved!”

Cormac Dawson, Sales Director, Centra, commented: “The awards fall into four categories, the ‘People’ category, which celebrates those who go above and beyond – like our Length of Service honourees and our Employee of the Year. ‘Food Safety’ celebrates champions of quality and care. Then there’s the ‘Excellence’ category. This shines a light on the stores that truly bring the best of Centra to life, whether it's through Deli, Moo’d ice cream, Bakery, Off Licence, or Local Activations. These stores showcase our commitment to quality and variety. And finally, the ‘Store of the Year’ awards celebrate the stores that set the standard for what convenience retailing should be, delivering an outstanding experience to our customers, day in and day out.”

Multiple award wins

The Store of the Year Awards came towards the end of what has been an exceptional year for Centra. The convenience brand took home 52 awards at the Great Taste Awards. This accomplishment highlights the outstanding taste and superior quality of the premium and own brand range products. Centra has a long-standing tradition of supporting local Irish suppliers, including some of this year's Great Taste Award winners.

Pictured at the presentation of the overall Centra Store of the Year 2024 award to Garvey’s Centra Newcastlewest are (l-r): James McNamara, Kevin McCarthy, Cormac Dawson, Centra Sales Director, Tina Coughlan, Margaret Flaherty, Noreen O'Connor and Jim Garvey, with Luke Hanlon, Managing Director, Centra, and JF Michel, Three.

To celebrate the launch the Egg Muffin, Centra collaborated with content creator Mick ‘The Muffin Man’ Medeiros, who took to the streets of Dublin to get first hand-reactions from the public.

The Happy Pear, exclusively available at SuperValu and Centra, won a total of 10 awards, including, The Happy Pear Lovely Basil Pesto that won a 2-star award for the second year in a row.

Centra’s Irish food producers also claimed 19 awards at the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards, including four Gold awards, eight Silver awards and seven Bronze awards across the Centra, Inspired by Centra, Superquinn and Moo’d brands.

The big wins include 10 products from

the Inspired by Centra range, including three Gold 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.

Key award winners from the Centra range include customer favourites such as Centra Belgian Chocolate Brownie Slices four-pack by Couverture Desserts, Centra Crème Fraiche by Clóna Dairy and Centra Irish Rapeseed Oil by Newgrange Gold.

Not content to rest on its laurels, Centra continues to innovate, with exciting new products available in-store. October 2024 saw the beloved Superquinn sausage taking centre stage in Centra’s new musttry breakfast offering: The Egg Muffin. The Superquinn Sausage and Egg Muffin is the first time the Superquinn sausage has been turned into a patty, and makes a delectable addition to Centra’s already renowned deli offering.

Supporting the Irish Cancer Society

Centra has proudly sponsored the AllIreland Senior Hurling Championship for 15 years and has been a key supporter of the Irish Cancer Society for 14 years. For the entire month of October, customers experienced an array of charity initiatives taking place in their local Centra store, including the ability to add €2 at the till, by tapping to donate to this worthy cause, or to pick up Irish Cancer Society four-pack cupcakes for €3, with €1 of the proceeds going directly to the charity.

“We are so proud of our long-standing partnership with the Irish Cancer Society, which is such a worthy charity,” said

Mueller,

Luke Hanlon. “Each year, we are blown away by the combined efforts from our Centra retailers and their customers in the surrounding communities. The funds raised will positively impact people across Ireland effected by breast cancer. The Irish Cancer Society's exceptional work and the comprehensive services they provide to communities across the country are truly commendable”.

Simple Savers

Value is also very important to Centra, who launched their Simple Savers initiative in September, designed to make on-the-go shopping easier, quicker, and more costeffective for customers across the nation. Simple Savers offers a surge of mega value deals that help customers save time, money and effort, with rounded, simple prices right across the store across a wide range of everyday essentials. Centra also introduced Simple Savers Tips & Tricks, a social series sharing practical advice for saving money, time and effort in everyday tasks.

Centra had a record €2.1 billion in earnings in 2023, due, in part, to its expanded store footprint, and the convenience retailer saw a number of new store openings during 2024. A number of their retailer partners also invested in revamping their stores over the course of the year, including the state-of-the-art store in Newbliss, Co. Monaghan, following a refurbishment and significant investment by the owners, Mark and Apryl McNally. Centra is Ireland’s leading convenience retailer, serving over 3.5 million customers per week, supporting over 38,000 jobs and directly employing approximately 12,000 people across the country.

Centra took home 52 awards at the Great Taste Awards.

Pictured at the launch of the Centra Big Pink Breakfast in aid of the Irish Cancer Society are Alison Reynolds, Claire Bowman, Maria

Sinead Gillespie, Jennifer Owens and Laura Larkin.

Costcutter’s remarkable journey in 2024

Costcutter has enjoyed a stellar 2024, introducing a stunning new visual identity, which is rolling out to stores nationwide.

FOR Costcutter, 2024 has been defined by innovation, investment, and commitment to its retailers, customers and sustainability.

Staying ahead of trends

Costcutter has made it a priority to differentiate itself by staying ahead of industry trends. This year, the brand underwent a transformative rebranding, introducing a refresh of the brand’s visual identity, store specification, and exclusive sub-brands: Market St. Deli, Urban Sips, and Freezi Licks. This fresh take on the brand has now been delivered in 12 stores nationwide.

To further enhance its offering, Barry Group committed a €10 million investment over three years, aiming to expand Costcutter’s footprint, introduce advanced technological touchpoints, and create over 150 new jobs in Irish communities.

Alongside these developments, retailer education remained a key focus, with training programmes and ongoing store audits for their coveted Store of the Year Award, ensuring success at the local level.

A standout brand

Costcutter’s ability to deliver tailored solutions sets it apart. This year saw the launch of 55th Street, an exclusive off licence brand offering a range of wines, beers and spirits, in addition to its ‘Expert’s Choice’ range of private label

wines with high margin for retailers. “55th Street was built on Barry Group’s strength in its competitive alcohol,” shared Edwina Lucey, Sales Director. “While Costcutter’s off licence and its comprehensive range is well established with today’s customer, we felt it was timely to give it its own brand identity. After all, it is not a standard convenience alcohol offering. It has a comprehensive range of own label

lines which act as a unique selling point and margin enhancer for our retailers nationally.” This addition aligns with Costcutter’s fresh brand interface, designed to meet both consumer and retailer needs in an evolving retail landscape.

Connecting through marketing and sponsorships

Marketing campaigns in 2024 focused on

Vision Ireland Dip at Dawn ambassador Lorraine Keane with fellow sea swimmers at the Forty Foot and Vision Ireland staff, as well as Amy Barry, Learning and Development Manager, Costcutter (sixth from left).

Retail Groups Report

55th Street is Costcutter’s exclusive off licence brand, offering a range of wines, beers and spirits, in addition to its ‘Expert’s Choice’ range of private label wines with high margin for retailers.

amplifying Costcutter’s new identity. “This year, we have delved into the impact of our advertising and sponsorship plan as we have commenced the repositioning of our new brand identity,” said Alan Cronin, Marketing Manager. “Whilst we have retained our focus on promoting shortterm marketing initiatives, we have heavily invested in brand awareness campaigns.” Notable campaigns included sponsorship of Vision Ireland’s Dip at Dawn, which leveraged TV chef Daniel Lambert as an influencer alongside digital, outdoor, and experiential in-store events.

Additionally, Urban Sips, Costcutter’s exclusive coffee brand, garnered significant investment with the launch of an influencer campaign. Collaborating with six Irish influencers that correspond with the brand’s target audience, Costcutter stores and the premium coffee offering were profiled on the back of the launch of its extended coffee range. These efforts raised brand awareness and highlighted Costcutter’s community focus.

Retailer-centric support

Barry Group rise to the challenge of providing sustainable business solutions that empower their customers to succeed. “Whilst we are extremely proud of our new brand identity and how much it has

logistics, and other departments underpins Costcutter’s reputation as a reliable partner.

Sustainability achievements

Barry Group’s commitment to a sustainable future is something they are extremely passionate about. It forms a consideration factor in every decision made, not only in Barry Group but also in their symbol group offering.

Costcutter transitioned all packaging for its sub-brands to sustainable solutions and revamped store specifications to include energy-efficient lighting and fridges. Many stores also adopted solar panels and EV chargers, collectively reducing energy bills by up to 30%. These measures reflect Costcutter’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility.

Delivering value-driven promotions

Costcutter’s extensive portfolio, supported by Barry Group, offers competitive pricing on secondary line and private-label products. “We can see with present market

Barry Group has committed a €10 million investment over three years to expand Costcutter’s footprint, introduce advanced technological touchpoints, and create over 150 new jobs in Irish communities.

been welcomed in the Irish convenience trade, it must be acknowledged that what sets our retail offering apart is our authentic approach to partnership,” shares Jim Barry, Managing Director. “For us, it is quite simple; we deliver on our commitments. We provide retailers with dynamic, tailor-made solutions that support their current needs and their future success.”

With Account Managers visiting stores every three weeks and fresh food advisors providing training on deli, hot food and food-to-go offerings, the group ensures a best-in-class service. Additional support from Barry Group’s sales, marketing,

trends that customers are favouring branded products,” revealed Paul Roche, Head of Costcutter. “In response, this range has been crafted to deliver value on the lines that are loved by the people who shop in our retail outlets.” The Price Fighters range delivers up to 30% savings, catering to value-conscious consumers while enhancing retailer profitability.

2024 has been a landmark year for Costcutter, defined by bold innovations, meaningful investments, and unwavering retailer support. With a fresh identity and a focus on sustainability, the brand is well-positioned for continued growth and success in the Irish retail market.

The Freezi Licks ice cream brand has proved a popular draw for Costcutter shoppers.

Retail Groups Report Community convenience at Gala Retail

Gala Retail celebrated 25 years in 2024 and the convenience brand remains as popular as ever with shoppers across the country.

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. It was a year that was packed full of activity, from partnerships to promotions and massive giveaways, whilst continuing to deliver for its retailers with the introduction of new innovations, sustainability grants and marketing activations.

In addition to its packed year of shopper incentives and promotions, the Group celebrated a decade of partnership with Special Olympics Ireland, as well as welcoming a number of new retailers to the Gala Retail family.

With over 200 stores nationally and growing, the independent nature of Gala Retail’s operating structure continues to be a key driver in attracting new retailers to join Gala Retail. The Group’s experience and expertise in the retail sector, combined with its flexible and personalised approach, enables Gala retailers to develop unique, local offerings that are tailored to their community.

In addition to expanding Gala’s footprint

across Ireland, Gala Retail’s focus has been on the continued growth and development of its range of instore concepts, offering customers variety and choice in its fresh food and food-to-go offerings. Continually evolving in response to consumer trends, Gala’s range of concepts is designed to meet customer demand.

Gala’s Coffee Junction, with its new look and superior offering, Distill, The Deli and Baker’s Corner are cornerstone concepts across Gala stores, and the addition of Galato, Gala’s premier ice cream offering, in recent years has proven to be beneficial for retailers, driving sales and encouraging repeat custom with shoppers.

In 2023, Gala unveiled what’s believed to be Ireland’s firstever virtual reality store layout simulator, which enables new retailers to the Group to have an immersive experience when visualising what their future Gala store could look like. The tech has been incredibly successful and resulted in the continuation of store revamps throughout 2024.

Sustainability strategy

Gary Desmond, CEO, Gala Retail, with Irish TV presenter, Anna Daly and kids Hailee (age 5) and Alexander (age 7) at the launch of the Gala Home or Away Giveaway.

Over the past few years, Gala Retail, alongside its retailers, has made strides in improving sustainability across the Group. 2024 saw the launch of Gala’s sustainability strategy, aiming to deliver

a fundamental change in contributing to a more sustainable future. A major part of the Group’s sustainability programme is the introduction of Gala Greener Grants. This innovative grant programme aims to support retailers in adopting sustainable technologies, providing funding for a range of technologies, including waste heat recovery systems, solar PV systems and electric vehicle charging points.

Five retailers have been awarded €5,000

to date, with another five retailers in line to receive Greener Grants in the coming months. The first five stores were O’Shea’s Gala in Blennerville, Co. Kerry, Scollan’s Gala in Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim, Murphys Gala in Kanturk, Co. Cork, Gala Boyle, Co. Roscommon, and Hennessy’s Gala

in Kilmeaden, Co. Waterford. Gala has committed to a Greener Grants fund of €500,000 to be allocated to stores in the years ahead.

Giving back to Gala customers Community is at the core of the Gala

Group’s values and is a theme that permeates through the Group’s marketing activities and associations. Committed to giving back to Gala customers in communities throughout Ireland and supporting shoppers with everyday essentials, Gala kicked off 2024 with its Home or Away Giveaway, gifting €80,000 in holiday prizes. Teaming up with Irish TV presenter, Anna Daly, shoppers had the chance to win one of 10 family holidays abroad or be one of the lucky 15 shoppers to win a staycation across Ireland.

In June, Gala continued its giving ways with its summer shopper promotion gifting €150 in Woodies vouchers to winning customers across Ireland. Ending the year on a high and in a bid to give back to shoppers whose loyalty supports the Gala brand and its stores day in, day out, Gala has launched its Gifts For All campaign, which centres on each store offering its shoppers a chance to win over €400 for everyday essentials this winter.

A Special partnership

2024 saw Gala Retail celebrating a decade of partnership with Special Olympics Ireland. As a platinum sponsor, over the past 10 years, Gala Retail has supported thousands of Special Olympics athletes, providing resources and helping to foster inclusion and celebration within its stores, local sports clubs and communities.

“Special Olympics Ireland is a truly special organisation that does incredible work on behalf of its athletes,” noted Gary Desmond, Gala CEO, reflecting on a decade of partnership. “With clubs in locations all across Ireland, Special Olympics has a place in the heart of many communities and with almost 230 group stores in towns and villages throughout Ireland, there’s a real synergy with this partnership.

“We are immensely proud of the impact we have made together over the past 10 years in supporting athletes and their families across the country. From the Ireland Games to three World Games and our Gala Gifts For Clubs initiative, it has been great to look back on the remarkable achievements across the years. We look forward to creating even more meaningful impact in the years ahead.”

Looking ahead

With a number of new store openings planned for the New Year, as well as more Gala stores undergoing a brand refresh and increasing their in-store concept offerings, 2025 is set to be another busy year for the Gala Group.

Pictured at the launch of Gala Greener Grants are Mary O'Shea and Kieran O'Shea of O'Shea's Gala, Blennerville, Co. Kerry, with Peter Clifford (left) and Gary Desmond, CEO, Gala Retail.

Pictured celebrating 10 years of partnership between Gala Retail and Special Olympics Ireland are Special Olympics athletes Martha Power, Brian McSweeney and Mary Kate Drake McPartlan, with Gary Desmond, CEO, Gala Retail.

Glowing dawn for Daybreak

Thomas Morrison, Head of Retail & MarketPlace at Musgrave Wholesale Partners, discusses how the Daybreak consumer offer is constantly evolving, the power of partnership in driving success, and the brand’s plans for 2025.

AT Daybreak, we are highly focused on meeting the key shopper missions that matter most to convenience shoppers, such as breakfast and lunch on-the-go, as well as dinner for tonight. To stay ahead, we leverage insights from our in-house Insights team to identify and respond to the latest food and consumer trends, ensuring our offer evolves continuously.

A prime example is our refreshed Munch & Co. deli menu, launched last year, which has been a hit with customers seeking breakfast and lunch options. It includes new flavours, healthier choices, and vegan options, alongside an exciting southern fried chicken menu. This menu features pressure-fried fresh chicken, which delivers a tastier, juicier bite, and includes a selection of signature menu items, in addition to the ever-popular chicken fillet roll.

We’ve also expanded other areas of our offer, such as introducing an iced coffee solution to our 9 Grams coffee range and adding seasonal specials to our Lickety Split ice cream menu. Another example of where we expanded our offer last year is our range of Daybreak Ready Meals, which provides busy shoppers with convenient dinner solutions, while boosting retailer sales in take-home food. Building on this success, we are currently working on enhancements to our ready meals offer, with exciting new developments to be unveiled at our Conference and Trade Show in April 2025.

Thomas Morrison, Head of Retail & MarketPlace at Musgrave Wholesale Partners.

Collaboration at the core

Working in partnership with retailers is a fundamental principle in our business. We believe a strong relationship between the Musgrave team and Daybreak retailers is crucial for commercial success. Our Business Development Managers collaborate closely with each store to develop annual business plans and provide practical support to enhance store sales and lower costs. Through this hands-on practical engagement with retailers, we provide support that is tailored to their local needs and opportunities and which is ultimately focused on driving their bottom line.

Another example of this close collaboration is the Daybreak Retailer Council. The council is made up of representative retailers from across the country who advise the Musgrave team on critical challenges facing retailers and support key brand initiatives. Over the past year, for instance, the retailer council has played a pivotal role in shaping our promotions plan, ensuring we continue to offer consumers and retailers a compelling value proposition in today’s more challenging economic climate. Their input was also invaluable in developing the refreshed food-to-go offering mentioned earlier, which is helping to drive increased retailer sales and profitability.

Musgrave support

When it comes to the backing Daybreak retailers receive, the hands-on, day-today support provided by our Business

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Daybreak’s refreshed Munch & Co. deli menu has been a hit with customers seeking breakfast and lunch options.

Development Managers is just the start. We also have a Development Team to assist new stores joining the Daybreak family and existing stores undergoing refurbishments. All our store development plans are customised to meet local needs and opportunities, taking into account factors such as store format, demographic composition, local consumer spending, and the competitive environment. Once a plan is agreed, our Development Team oversees the entire project, ensuring it is delivered on time, within budget, and with minimal

disruption to the retailer’s operation. Given the importance of the food-to-go category, our Fresh Food Advisors also play a vital role in the store development process. Deli staff are central to delivering a successful fresh food offer, so our Fresh Food Advisors provide detailed training plans and in-person guidance to support the implementation of the offer in-store. Additionally, retailers benefit from the wider expertise of the Musgrave team, including support in Marketing, IT, and HR. For example, the Musgrave HR team

Daybreak’s hugely popular Lickety Split ice cream brand, with seasonal specials available through the year.

has created a range of services to help Daybreak retailers train and recruit staff more cost-effectively. This includes a HR Helpdesk staffed by experienced professionals who offer expert advice on all employment matters. Retailers can access up-to-date HR policies and guidelines via the Daybreak Retailer Zone, as well as participate in HR forums and webinars. We strive to add value to retailers’ businesses by developing solutions which help make their lives easier. An example of this was the end-to-end recruitment solution introduced recently to support stores, given the wider industry recruitment challenges. Our new feature enables stores to post and manage vacancies on the Daybreak careers page with ease.

Another aspect of the support Daybreak retailers enjoy is our comprehensive communications plan, designed to drive store sales and boost brand awareness. This includes a strong focus on promoting value for money, with 13 promotional cycles each year, supported with flyers and POS material. We also place significant emphasis on digital marketing, including display advertising and social media campaigns, geo-targeted to the catchment area of stores. Capturing attention on social media requires standout content, and our success is demonstrated by regular award wins, such as the gold and bronze accolades at the Sockies social media awards earlier this year. Radio also continues to play a key role in our marketing strategy, with advertisements airing on national stations throughout the year.

2025 and beyond: what's on the horizon Daybreak achieved significant growth in 2024, adding 23 new stores and revamping 15 existing ones. Looking ahead, we are focused on accelerating the roll-out of our new store format, which has already proven to resonate with shoppers and deliver strong results for retailers. We have ambitious plans for 2025 to welcome new stores into the Daybreak brand and continue our pace of refurbishments. Alongside this, we are committed to evolving our offer to better respond to the needs and wants of convenience shoppers, while driving retailer profitability, which we will share with Daybreak retailers at our Conference and Trade Show in April. Our success reflects the strength of our business model and the appeal of Daybreak's offerings. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to continued success in 2025 and beyond.

Retail Groups Report Tesco delivers on sustainability

2024 saw Tesco Ireland deliver on its commitment to sustainability, across a number of key projects, from Stronger Starts to supporting Irish suppliers.

TESCO Ireland is proud to be one of Ireland’s largest grocery retailers, having operated in the Irish retail market for over 25 years. With 181 stores nationwide, Tesco is responsible for over 45,000 jobs directly and indirectly nationwide, including almost 13,500 colleagues in towns across Ireland.

Tesco is proud to be a good neighbour, helping to build thriving communities and improving children's health in the communities it serves.

Stronger Starts schools programme doubled

Tesco Ireland hit another positive milestone earlier this year as they doubled the DEIS primary schools nationwide receiving supports from the Stronger Starts schools programme, months ahead of schedule.

Every week of the school term, thousands

Pictured at the launch of the Stronger Starts Summer Food Collection are Tesco Ireland Communications Director, Rosemary Garth (second from left), with colleagues Paul Flynn and Amy Rintoul, and Fergal Landy, CEO, Family Resource Centre National Forum.

of children in 240 DEIS primary schools receive free fresh food packs containing a mix of seasonal fresh fruit and vegetables,

2024.

including apples, onions, potatoes and carrots. Doubling the number of schools involved means hundreds more primary school children and their families are getting help to make and create healthier meal solutions at home.

“In 2023, we had 120 schools in the programme and committed to doubling that by the end of 2024,” said Rosemary Garth, Communications Director. “I’m genuinely delighted to confirm that we have not only hit that target of 240 schools now benefiting, but we have hit it months ahead of schedule!

“To date, Tesco has distributed the equivalent of over two million meals to children through DEIS primary schools, and this announcement means that hundreds more primary school children and families who are most in need will receive free nutritious fresh fruit and veg to help create healthier meals at home.”

As a Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Champion 2023-24 and a grocery retailer, Tesco is particularly committed to tackling SDG2, which aims to tackle hunger. The Stronger Starts programme forms part of Tesco’s commitment to driving

Tesco Ireland Head of Sustainability Andy McGregor, Tesco Retail & Distribution Director Ger Counihan and Tesco Ireland Head of Transport ROI Alan Reville, with some of the 50 state-of-the-art biomethane fuelled trucks which became part of Tesco Ireland’s transport fleet in July

awareness of the SDGs across Irish society and leading by example in how small changes ladder up to make a big difference.

Stronger Starts Summer Food Collection launched

Tesco know that tackling hunger is not only a school term issue; it’s prevalent in the school holidays too. To do their part and as an extension of the Stronger Starts schools programme, they launched the Tesco Stronger Starts Summer Food Collection which ran across the summer until September 8 – partnering with local Family Resource Centres across Ireland to support local communities during the school holidays.

Customers in 115 Tesco stores across Ireland were encouraged to purchase an extra non-perishable food item during their shop and place it into a designated collection trolley. A local Family Resource Centre then used or distributed the items to families who need it most.

Sustainability

Tesco Ireland has made considerable progress towards meeting its sustainability targets to date, reducing energy consumption by 25%. Tesco Ireland is a proud signatory of the Business in the Community Low Carbon Pledge, and its policies are aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as well as European and national frameworks.

In July, Tesco Ireland brought 50 stateof-the-art biomethane fuelled trucks into its transport fleet. Biomethane, a renewable energy source produced from organic waste, offers a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels. The trucks immediately replaced 50 diesel units, cutting down tailpipe carbon emissions by up to 90%. The biomethane fleet are operated by Tesco’s transport partner DHL and the trucks are being used to transport produce to stores from its distribution centres in Dublin.

Supporting sustainable Irish agriculture

In August, Tesco Ireland confirmed that all its own label range of fresh eggs now contain barn, free range, and organic eggs only, reflecting a welfare commitment to do so before 2025.

Ahead of their committed schedule, and working with their long-term partner, Greenfield Foods, Co. Monaghan, Tesco has successfully moved all its almost 20 million dozen eggs sold annually to barn, free range, and organic Irish farmed eggs only. All of Tesco Ireland’s eggs are sourced from Bord Bia accredited Irish farms,

Pictured last September as Aurivo sign a € 36 million multi-year agreement with Tesco, are (l-r): Stephen Blewitt, General Manager, Dairy, Aurivo; Charlie McConalogue TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food & the Marine; and Joe Manning, Commercial Director, Tesco Ireland.

and with this improvement in welfare standards, Tesco is building on its ongoing commitment to support sustainable Irish agriculture and producers.

New store openings

Tesco Ireland opened 11 new stores this year, while their extensive store refit and refurbishment upgrade programme continued at a pace. The new stores in counties Dublin, Laois, Limerick, Kilkenny, and Clare have helped create hundreds of new jobs in local communities nationwide this year.

Blas na hÉireann

It was another hugely successful year for the retailer and its Irish producers. Tesco Ireland won 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.

Tesco were awarded 21 gold medals, including Tesco Lamb Rack with a Mushroom & Herb Crumb, Tesco Finest Belgian Chocolate Vanilla, and Salted Caramel Bar, Tesco Finest Cream of

Vegetable and Irish Chicken Soup, Tesco Finest Poultry Gravy, Tesco Finest Gherkin and Mustard Relish, and Tesco Finest Honey & Irish Whiskey Ham Glaze. Tesco also took home 25 silver and 17 bronze medals.

Supplier partnerships

Tesco Ireland committed nearly €200 million in investment for the renewal and expansion of its multi-year partnerships with Irish suppliers in 2024. The world's leading purchaser of Irish food and drink has reaffirmed its commitments to several Irish brands, including Irish Yogurts, Country Crest, Freshways, Silver Pail, Ballymaguire Foods, Bandon Vale, and Crust & Crumb.

As part of its support for Irish suppliers and agribusiness, the northwest-based dairy co-op, Aurivo, has signed a €36 million multi-year agreement with Tesco to supply 28 million litres of milk and cream, as well as branded butter and milkshake drinks, to all 181 of their stores nationwide. Another contract extension saw Country Crest and Tesco Ireland committing to their future partnership with a multiyear contract extension for the supply of potatoes, onions and sweet potatoes to all Tesco stores nationwide and for online shopping. The contract, worth nearly €100 million, solidifies the strong partnership the retailer has had with the North County Dublin operation for the past 28 years.

Every little helps.

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Aldi celebrates 25 years in Ireland

2024 saw Aldi mark 25 years of operation in Ireland. Since 1999, the retailer has continued to deliver value for customers, invest in Irish suppliers, create jobs across the country and give back to the communities it serves.

SINCE first entering the Irish market 25 years ago, Aldi has had a significant positive impact on the grocery market. Aldi introduced the discount retailer model to Ireland, which has succeeded in delivering low prices, value, choice and competition. Across 2024, Aldi marked that major milestone, while continuing to invest in growing its offering for customers, suppliers, partners and communities.

25th birthday celebrations

In June, Aldi hosted a celebratory lunch for suppliers, charity partners and industry stakeholders at the Conrad Hotel in Dublin. Guest of honour was Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue TD. An evening event then took place for consumer media and

influencers, with the key objective to drive fame for Aldi as the retail destination for value and quality, through celebrating this key milestone. Through this, the retailer wanted to educate and inform key media and influencers on Aldi’s support and commitment to Irish suppliers and consumers. Guests enjoyed entertainment by Smash Hits and Kevin the Carrot, as well as a BBQ by Andy Noonan, who facilitated a discussion alongside Aldi’s inhouse chefs and highlighted the quality of meats available at Aldi.

Aldi held birthday parties in its Parnell Street (Dublin) and Ballincollig (Cork) stores in November. These locations were the first Aldi stores in Ireland in November, 1999, and Aldi were delighted to bring the celebrations to these stores. Kevin

the Carrot was on hand in both stores to get the celebrations underway. In Parnell Street, the ‘Spin to Win’ competition garnered great interest and in Ballincollig, Aldi’s food truck was on hand to offer samples of some of their wonderful Irish suppliers' products.

Economic impact since 1999

To commemorate 25 years in Ireland, Aldi commissioned an economic impact report by DCU Professor Anthony Foley. The report, titled ‘Aldi in Ireland, 1999-2024’, outlined Aldi’s economic influence over the past two and a half decades and was launched in May by Aldi Group Managing Director, Niall O’Connor. Since 1999, the retailer has invested over €2 million in capital projects and spent €1.3 billion on wages. Aldi’s spending with Irish suppliers has reached €10 billion, including a 58% increase in purchases over the past five years. In 2023 alone, Aldi’s economic contribution amounted to €757 million, supporting over 12,500 jobs across Ireland.

Supporting and investing in Irish suppliers

Aldi has continued to support its network of 330 Irish suppliers, with whom it spends more than €1.1 billion annually. This year saw major new contracts agreed, including a major new €125 million deal with Dawn Meats, and new deals with Manor Farm, NutriQuick, Glenpatrick, Ishka and a landmark contract with Irish Dog Foods that saw the supplier launch in Aldi stores in the US.

In 2024, the Grow with Aldi programme marked its seventh year. Since its inception, Aldi has invested over €10 million in the supplier development programme, underscoring its dedication to discovering and supporting innovative Irish products. Grow with Aldi has yielded numerous success stories, with many alumni products available on shelves nationwide. In May, 27 supplier finalists were chosen, and their products were introduced in Aldi stores as part of a Specialbuy promotion. From this group, three fan-favourite products emerged: Macey’s Factory from Co. Derry with their Candyfloss and Popcorn, Moran’s Mega Jam from Co. Cavan with their

Charlie McConalogue TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and Colin Breslin, Managing Director of Buying & Services at Aldi Ireland, pictured as Aldi celebrates 25 years in Ireland.

Colin Breslin, Managing Director of Buying & Services at Aldi Ireland, and Iseult Ward, Co-Founder and CEO of FoodCloud, celebrate a decade-long partnership between Aldi Ireland and FoodCloud, which has seen the retailer donate four million meals.

garlic Mayonnaise, and Pure Bea from Co. Wicklow with their 1 Calorie Rapeseed / Sunflower Oil Spray.

Food awards

Aldi has had a very successful year at the key food awards in 2024, winning 74 accolades at the Great Taste Awards, 58 awards at the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards and 40 awards at Blas na hÉireann. The retailer took home 22 awards at the National Parenting Product Awards and was named Best Family Friendly Supermarket 2024 for a second year running. Aldi was also named as Retailer of the Year at the FreeFrom Food Awards for a fourth year running, along with 50 product wins across multiple FreeFrom categories.

A sustainability leader

Sustainability continued to play a critical role across Aldi’s business operations. Minister Eamon Ryan TD appointed Aldi Ireland as one of Ireland’s Sustainable Development Goals Champions (SDG) for 2024-2025. This appointment reflects the company’s ‘Better Everyday’ sustainability strategy, which aims to make sustainability affordable for all.

Aldi has championed the Government’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) since launching in February and is committed to embedding these units as part of the local community. To date, the retailer has accepted over 120 million bottle and can returns from customers.

Focusing on people

Aldi continued to focus on its people in 2024. Alongside industry-leading pay and career progression opportunities, employee wellness has been a particular focus.

Aldi has rolled out a number of key initiatives for staff this year, particularly

Pictured at the launch of Aldi’s Elephant in the Room unveiling were Stephen Butterly, Head of Fundraising & Business Development, Aware Ireland, with Linda Djougang, Aldi IRFU Ambassador; Brent Pope, Founder of Elephant in the Room; and Brian O’Shea, HR Director, Aldi Ireland.

In September, Aldi celebrated 10 years of partnership with FoodCloud, donating over four million meals and saving 1.7 million kilograms of food from going to waste.

Aldi’s Community Grants programme has played a key role since its inception in 2016. By the end of 2024, the programme will have provided €758,000 in donations to more than 1,000 community organisations. This year’s donations totalled €137,500 in a specially expanded programme to mark 25 years in business.

focused on supporting its female colleagues. The retailer launched its Women in Leadership Programme, following a successful pilot, which is focused on fostering a more diverse talent pipeline for leadership roles and advancing gender equality within the company. Aldi also introduced a Menopause Ambassadors programme earlier this year, an initiative designed to provide unwavering support to all colleagues during this transformative phase of life.

In May, Aldi announced a new partnership with ‘Elephant in the Room’, a mental health awareness campaign designed to promote open conversations about mental health and wellbeing in the workplace. Aldi’s partnership is centred on a personalised eye-catching four-foot-tall elephant sculpture, which acts as a visual reminder of the value of not being afraid to confront the proverbial “elephant in the room”.

Looking forward to 2025

2024 was a landmark year for Aldi Ireland. As it draws to a close, Aldi is looking to the future and to the next 25 years. Who knows where we’ll be then? However, despite all the changes, people will always want and need high-quality, nutritious food and drink at prices they can afford. Value matters now more than ever. Aldi will continue investing in its prices, its people and the communities it serves.

Pictured as Aldi Ireland announces the three winners of this year’s Grow with Aldi programme are Cassie Stokes, with Rachael O’Connor, Buying Director at Aldi Ireland, Fiona Twomey of Bord Bia and the Grow with Aldi winners: Shay & Marc Donley of Macey’s Factory, Kieron & Claire Moran of Moran’s Mega Jam and Keith Symes of Pure Bea.

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Lidl: committed to great value

Lidl Ireland enjoyed an impressive 2024, as they continued to support their staff, their suppliers and their customers with superb value in-store.

THE last 12 months have continued to challenge all of us as we navigate the costof-living in Ireland, which has continued to have a significant impact on families across the country. As a member of the business community in your local area, Lidl want to be a pillar of stability and support. Lidl Ireland remain committed to being the best value retailer in the country, offering the highest quality products at the best possible prices, meaning their shoppers will never have to compromise.

People

This October, Lidl announced Robert Ryan as the new CEO of Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland, replacing JP Scally, who has moved to the position of CEO, Lidl France.

Lidl Ireland currently have a team of more than 6,000 employees across the country who are the bedrock of the business, which is why they have prioritised building not only an exceptional place to work, but also an inclusive, rewarding, fulfilling culture throughout the business. Lidl were the first nationwide employer to commit to paying the Living Wage in 2015 and have committed to it every year since. They are exceptionally proud to continue to be an employer of choice, and for the fourth year running were recognised by the Top Employers Institute as a Top Employer for 2024.

This year, Lidl Ireland invested over €15 million in pay increases for their existing workforce who have industry leading salaries. They also provide an array of industry first benefits, such as paid maternity and paternity leave, compassionate leave for miscarriage and early pregnancy loss, fertility leave, and retirement and menopause support, to name a few.

Suppliers

Lidl have grown a significant supplier and business partner network of more than 1,800 over the last 25 years, many of which have worked with them for over a decade, and both supplier and retailer have grown their partnership and their businesses in tandem. Irish food and drink has an incredible

reputation abroad and Lidl are proud to fly the Irish flag and facilitate export deals to their global network of 31 countries. In 2023 alone, they procured a record €1.6 billion worth of goods and services from Irish suppliers and business partners. €300 million of this was exported internationally through their expansive network of stores, showcasing the best of Irish produce on the global stage. The Kickstart Supplier Development Programme has also supported more than 500 small Irish

businesses since Lidl Ireland launched the programme seven years ago. They’re proud to provide unrivalled access to local and international markets, and to support the growth and success of Irish produce worldwide.

Recently, Lidl announced deals with a number of Irish suppliers including:

• a €2 million deal with Kerry Dairy Ireland, Cork;

• a €1 million deal with Ultrapure Laboratories, Mayo;

Robert Ryan, new CEO of Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Pictured on Bertra Beach, Co. Mayo, are (l-r): John Dempsey, Owner of Ultrapure Laboratories, and Emma Nolan, Buyer at Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland.

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Cox, Head of Communications and Policy, Family Carers Ireland, as Lidl announce a new charity partnership with Family Carers Ireland, the national charity supporting around half a million family carers across the country.

a €6 million deal with Golden Bake, Dublin.

Sustainability

Since launching their ‘A Better Tomorrow’ sustainability strategy, sustainability, environmental and community support programmes have been a central part of Lidl's business strategy. Leading the way in sustainability in the Irish retail sector

continues to be their priority, so shoppers know that by shopping at Lidl, they are positively contributing to protecting the environment.

Lidl were thrilled to be named the Most Sustainable Retailer and third Most Sustainable Organisation overall in the Ireland RepTrak Sustainability Index 2024 study of 100 prominent organisations. The position is their highest placing since the study began in 2011 and underscores Lidl’s commitment to tangible action to fight climate change, protect the environment and build a better social and economic future for the next generation.

Lidl Ireland have surpassed the milestone of 100 million units collected through their deposit return machines, processing almost a fifth of Ireland’s total DRS bottle and can recycling through their store network across the country and returning more than €17 million in deposits to customers. As the first retailer to launch a DRS trial back in 2021 at their stores in Glenageary in Dublin and Claremorris in Mayo, Lidl have prioritised providing a customer-centric experience so that everyone can come to a Lidl store and be confident in using the reverse vending machines to claim back their deposits in an accessible, quick and easy way.

This year, Lidl became the first supermarket retailer in Ireland to launch an innovative new sustainability support programme for Irish beef farmers. The Lidl Sustainable Beef Programme has been developed in partnership with beef supplier, Liffey Meats, Bord Bia and more than 20 beef farmers from across Ireland, who will work together to implement innovative sustainable farming practices in order to

reduce carbon emissions associated with beef farming.

Partnerships & events

Supporting good causes has always been a priority for Lidl. This year, they announced a new charity partnership with Family Carers Ireland, the national charity supporting nearly half a million family carers across the country. Lidl Ireland have pledged, with the help of their customers and colleagues, to raise more than €1 million over the next three years, to support the vital work of Family Carers Ireland, who provide free supports and services such as emergency care planning, counselling, emergency respite and respite provision, advocacy, peer support groups and information on rights and entitlements.

This follows the completion of a successful six-year charity partnership between Lidl Ireland and their previous charity partner, Jigsaw, which concluded in May this year and raised €3 million in funds for the charity. Launched in 2018 and delivering immediate and significant impact, the partnership between Lidl and Jigsaw quickly raised awareness and trust of the charity amongst the Irish public and increased referrals to its services across the country.

Lidl are proud to continue to deliver on their commitment to invest €10 million in 10 years of sponsorship of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association (LGFA). Much of this investment supports grassroots initiatives like Lidl's LGFA Stamp Card programme that supports post-primary schools and local clubs with jerseys and equipment. Lidl were exceptionally proud to debut their new #GetBehindtheFight campaign with a clear call to action to fill every seat at every ladies Gaelic football game. Through their longstanding partnership with the LGFA, Lidl will continue to be steadfast in their shared goal of smashing inequality in sport and giving female players the recognition they deserve.

Looking ahead

2025 will mark Lidl’s 25th year operating in the Republic of Ireland, a milestone they are very much looking forward to celebrating with their customers, suppliers, business partners and colleagues. As a business, Lidl Ireland also recognise that 2025 will come with a new set of challenges and opportunities for their business and the communities they operate in. However, it’s Lidl Ireland’s commitment to always ensure their customers continue to have unrivalled access to affordable, healthy and quality food for many years to come.

Pictured are Maeve McClean, Chief People Officer, Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland, and Catherine

Eimear O’Sullivan, Corporate Affairs Director at Lidl Ireland & Northern Ireland, is pictured with Kerry’s Síofra O'Shea, Tipperary’s Aisling Moloney and Galway’s Nicola Ward, as Lidl Ireland unveiled their new range of milk packaging that spotlights Ladies Gaelic Football players and encouraged the public to ‘Get Behind the Fight’ ahead of the TG4 All Ireland Championship Finals, which took place on August 4 in Croke Park.

Trends for 2025

Consumer trends for 2025

The top five consumer trends to be aware of for 2025, as identified by Euromonitor International.

EUROMONITOR International have identified their top five global consumer trends to watch for in 2025, with advice for brand owners and retailers on how they are set to impact on the market.

1. Healthspan plans

Consumers want to live healthier for longer and are making behavioural changes now for the betterment of their future selves, seeking out preventative solutions and products that target specific concerns. Brands can meet this demand with innovations that support optimal wellness at every life stage.

According to Euromonitor, a new view of ageing is on the rise; people don’t just want to live longer (lifespan); they want to feel better for longer (healthspan).

Examples include the steady growth of vitamins and supplements and a consistent increase in the usage of smart devices or apps to track fitness and health across generations.

Connected devices and apps offer real-time insights that these consumers can monitor to guide their behaviour, with global sales of smart wearables expected to record double-digit growth from 2024 to 2026.

Euromonitor explain that products backed by science continue to gain traction, citing the example of NAD+ supplements (a vital coenzyme involved in energy production, DNA repair and cellular metabolism), and noting how global snack sales by health benefits show brain, joint and vision are the three fastest-growing categories from 2024 to 2026.

Examples include Megmilk Snow Brand, developed Megumi Yogurt, a functional food product that was approved by the Japanese Consumer Affairs Agency to help reduce visceral fat, and Rootine, a US-based supplement brand that offers a range of health solutions

Tactics for 2025:

A. Develop targeted self-care products and tailor solutions to address specific, life-stage concerns or unmet needs.

B. Use scientific evidence or proven results in your marketing materials to underscore how formulations, devices or designs support longevity.

C. Partner with tech companies or diagnostics firms to offer personalised health assessments and real-time tracking solutions.

2. Wiser wallets

Consumers expect added value, weighing the worth of their purchases against their priorities, both in terms of current needs and future demands. The cost-of-living crisis is not the only reason consumers are looking for ways to save, according to Euromonitor, who argue that temporary shifts to relieve financial strain have become embedded into consumption habits. Purchase decisions are strategic and intentional. In fact, a majority of consumers extensively researched products or services and only 18% said they often made impulse purchases in 2024.

This doesn’t necessarily equate to a race to the cheapest product, with Euromonitor noting how in beauty and personal care, retail sales growth of premium goods outpaces mass alternatives. Consumers are focused on all-around value and expect brands to deliver meaningful incentives with longterm impact, and those who demonstrate

credible added value stand to gain from this trend.

Mapping products to various life stages, potentially crossing over with the Healthspan Plans trend, can help to strengthen customer relationships, while loyalty programmes can go beyond redeemable points and discounts to include special events or exclusive previews of upcoming launches. Strategic partnerships also add value for members who receive incentives from other brands.

Tactics for 2025:

A. Develop campaigns for segments of your audience to convey relevant, specific benefits.

B. Connect the priorities of your target audience to your value proposition to demonstrate the credible added value of your products or services.

C. Drive loyalty with short- and long-term incentives that complement your offer and are also useful for your customers.

3. Eco-logical

People continue to make choices that positively impact the environment, but they’re adopting a pragmatic mindset. Spending on sustainable alternatives remains a conscious decision based on personal values, but consumers also pay close attention to the primary benefits these products deliver against their needs. Sustainability claims require tangible evidence. Brands can’t rest on green laurels alone. You’ll need to match the right claims with the right products for the right audience to convince consumers to pick eco-friendly options.

Financial strain in recent years meant that economic concerns outranked green features

for many consumers, but Euromonitor reveal that despite this, more than 60% of consumers tried to have a positive impact on the environment in 2024, a figure that’s remained consistent since 2020. Almost two thirds are worried about climate change. For intent to turn into action, switching to a sustainable option needs to be easy. Trust in green labels hasn’t wavered over the years, but affordability continues to be the top barrier to purchase decisions. In 2024, 52% of consumers considered eco-friendly or environmentally conscious labels trustworthy; however, only 15% would pay more for these food and beverage products.

The Eco-logical trend is about the right claims on the right products for the right audience. Sustainability is no longer just a brand-enhancing requirement but a prerequisite for innovation that drives growth.

Retail sales of products with sustainability claims trended upwards from 2020 to 2023 and brands with a tangible sustainable proposition saw a 1.5% higher growth rate over the same period compared with non-sustainable equivalents. Your messaging must hit the right mark to drive return-on-investment, which can vary from FMCG category to category.

Examples include Procter & Gamble’s Tide evo, the first concentrated laundry detergent in tile format. The product is made of fibres with a compact design and uses paper packaging, combining sustainability with convenience and efficiency.

The report also cites Nestlé for the debut of the first KitKat formulated with cocoa sourced from families in their income accelerator programme. This KitKat incorporates a sustainability initiative into a familiar, convenient format.

Tactics for 2025:

A. Use sustainability claims that emphasise the value proposition of your product; connect these features to purchase drivers like efficacy, quality or safety.

B. Focus product development efforts on attributes with strong growth in your category and market.

C. Incorporate sustainability into products or services that are familiar to your target audience for easier adoption.

4. Filtered focus

More than 23,000 new brands were launched online across 54 FMCG categories in 32 countries from January 2024 to August 2024. Consumers can be overwhelmed by an ever-growing variety of choices. Clear communication and optimised user experiences should be strategic priorities to stand out in a crowded marketplace.

This is not a desire for less options, Euromonitor insist, but a demand for straightforward communication and intuitive discovery. That could be in the form of clearer labels on packaging, streamlined shopping experiences, tailored recommendations or stellar customer service. Consumers want to find the best products or services, quickly and easily, that truly meet their needs.

Trust is vital, with consumers gravitating towards brands that deliver on their promises or seeking validation like thirdparty certifications to back-up claims.

To make an impact, focus on your messaging and user experience. Simplified branding or functional packaging, for example, helps companies capture consumer interest. Emphasise the unique attributes, qualities or formulations of your products and convey those in a clear manner. For example, in 2023, 12% of online home care SKUs carried a natural claim, whereas only 1% had a hypoallergenic claim in a category where non-irritating claims were one of the fastest-growing types from 2022 to 2023.

Tactics for 2025:

A. Use clear, honest and relatable messaging to communicate the unique benefits of your products and services.

B. Personalise touchpoints or interactions where possible to deliver relevant information and foster meaningful customer relationships.

C. Optimise the user experience to streamline product discovery and remove friction from the shopping journey with the right tech integrations.

Clear, concise communication meets consumer demand for simplicity at every stage of the decision- making process.

Omnichannel fulfilment also plays an important role. Build capabilities or strategic partnerships to offer hassle-free options like delivery and click-and-collect services, both of which are expected to record double-digit sales growth globally from 2024 to 2026.

They cite the example of the Good Measure brand, a line of blood sugar-

Trends for 2025

friendly snacks from General Mills, which was redesigned to emphasise unique product qualities and stand out on shelves. The new packaging contains a blood sugar-friendly seal and an easy, concise overview of nutritional information.

5. AI ambivalent

The Euromonitor report argues that expectations for generative AI were perhaps too high in recent years, with consumers witnessing the technology’s limitations. Integrations and advancements aren’t slowing down, however, but companies must be transparent and purposeful in their use of generative AI to maintain trust.

The report delves into consumer worries about how AI could impact job security and the economy. Consumer sentiment could hinge on their perceived level of control or comfort in techenabled interactions, Euromonitor note, revealing how talking to a human to address customer service questions is preferred to using a bot for a majority of consumers. Only 19% expressed comfort with using a bot to resolve complex queries in 2024.

As development progresses, transparent, intentional and ethical use become an absolute necessity. Transparent and intentional generative AI is already proving to be a powerful tool for businesses.

The report notes how Dove pledged to never use AI-generated images of women in ads as part of its ongoing efforts to combat biases, a stance that reinforces the brand’s commitment towards promoting real, inclusive beauty, while Mastercard uses generative AI to expedite and enhance fraud detection, increasing the speed at which scams can be identified while protecting customers.

Tactics for 2025:

A. Be transparent about the use of generative AI across channels and content.

B. Analyse consumer sentiment to inform decisions about integrations or applications.

C. Evaluate which touchpoints could leverage this tech vs human expertise; find the right balance.

The full report on Top global consumer trends 2025 is available from Euromonitor.com

Guiness Ireland launch ‘Dancing Can’ to bring perfect pour home

30 YEARS after the iconic ‘Dancing Man’ ad was broadcast into Irish homes, Guinness are introducing a playful nod to a classic to celebrate the rewarding ritual and playful anticipation of pouring an iconic pint of Guinness at home with Guinness Nitrosurge. The 30-second ad, ‘Dancing Can’ was shot entirely using traditional stop-motion techniques and once again features the lively soundtrack of ‘Guaglione’ by Perez Prado, which famously leaped to No. 1 in the Irish charts in 1994, the year the original aired. “Guinness Nitrosurge is our most celebrated innovation of modern times, putting the power of the two-part pour in the consumer’s hands,” said Gabriel Corcoran, Brand Manager for Innovation at Guinness Ireland. “With a nod to a quirky and charming icon of the past, this campaign brings together the best of Guinness old and new, reimaging a classic and reintroducing a beloved track that captured the nation’s imagination 30 years ago.”

Irish Whiskey Association celebrates 700 years of distilling

THE Irish Whiskey Association, the Ibec trade association working to promote, protect and represent the Irish Whiskey category globally, held its biennial Chairman’s Awards recently, as part of a year-long celebration throughout 2024, marking 700 Years of Irish Whiskey tradition. The Red Book of Ossory was published in Kilkenny in 1324, and this ancient religious manuscript contains the first recorded reference to distilling in Ireland. The recipients of the 2024 Chairman’s Awards, presented on the night by James Doherty, Sliabh Liag Distillers

and Chair of the Irish Whiskey Association, were: John Quinn of Tullamore Dew, David Quinn of Irish Distillers, Miriam Mooney of the Irish Whiskey Association, Johnny Harte of Five Farms Irish Cream, Aoife Clarke of Suntory Global Spirits, and Brian Watts (posthumous) of Great Northern Distillery. “The awards celebrate those who have tirelessly advanced Irish Whiskey’s success, as can be seen in the sector’s growth over the last decade,” said Eoin Ó Catháin, Director of the Irish Whiskey Association. “The total export value of our sector will exceed €900 million this year. This is a remarkable achievement, particularly as spirits categories worldwide face some challenging economic headwinds, including inflation and increases in the cost-of-living. The future growth of the Irish Whiskey sector, with many new and establishing distilleries, needs to be underpinned by a supportive government approach and state agency backing in market development and investment.” Pictured are James Doherty, IWA Chair, with Dave Quinn, Miriam Mooney, John Quinn, Andrew and Euan Watts, US Ambassador Claire Cronin, Johnny Harte, and Eoin Ó Catháin, Director, IWA.

Greener Planet Award for Galway Distillery

GALWAY’S Ahascragh Distillery has been announced as the winner of the Greener Planet award at The Foodies 2024. Ahascragh Distillery was celebrated for its visionary approach to sustainable distilling, incorporating renewable energy solutions, eco-conscious sourcing, and innovative practices that have significantly reduced its carbon footprint. “Recognition by EU policymakers with the Greener Planet Award highlights the importance of decarbonising the production of Irish spirits,” said Gareth McAllister, co-founder of Ahascragh Distillery, with Michelle McAllister, co-founder, and Irish MEP Barry Cowen. For more information, visit ahascraghdistillery.com

Bushmills release 26-Year-Old Crystal Malt

BUSHMILLS Irish Whiskey have disrupted the single malt category with their most innovative expression yet: a 26 Year Old Crystal Malt. This exceptional release joins 25, 30, and 31 Year Old single malts to expand Bushmills’ illustrious Prestige Collection— some of the oldest and rarest whiskeys ever released from the pioneers of smooth single malt. Crafted using a special process which crystallises sugars in the malted barley before distillation, 26 Year Old Crystal Malt boasts rich and indulgent flavours of caramel and creamy chocolate, enhanced by decades of ageing in oak. It is bottled at 46% ABV non chill filtered and priced at £850 (€1025) for 700ml, available on the island of Ireland from Q1 2025. To celebrate the Prestige Collection and this new release, Bushmills have unveiled an immersive brand experience honouring Irish culture and craftsmanship, in collaboration with award-winning contemporary artist Colin Davidson.

Heineken Ireland launch employer brand campaign

HEINEKEN Ireland have unveiled their new employer brand campaign, ‘We Make The Star’, a reflection of the company’s unique culture, dedication to its people and commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace. The Heineken star represents not only its commitment to excellence but also the spirit of unity and collaboration. The campaign highlights how employees come together to make a real difference, not only to the brand but also to the communities they serve. “Our Employer Brand Campaign truly reflects the essence of what makes Heineken Ireland such a great place to work,” noted Fiona Curtin, Heineken Ireland’s Director of Marketing. "Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and this campaign celebrates the creativity, commitment, and collaboration that drive our success every day. At Heineken Ireland, we don’t just make beer, we Make The Star.” Fiona Curtin is pictured with Heineken Ireland’s People Director, Alfonso Aunon.

GM Marketing to distribute Cult Drinks

CULT Drinks, which houses Fatfrog, Piranha and Mr L’s Cocktails, amongst others, have signed a distribution deal with Irish company, GM Marketing which will get the household name drinks into even more trade and consumer outlets across the country. “Cult Drinks and its brands are very welcome additions to our alcohol distribution portfolio,” said Ella Freeman, Commercial Marketing Manager, GM Marketing (right). “The drinks are already a force to be reckoned with in Ireland and our plan is to build on that success by expanding into even more trade outlets and reaching more consumers in the coming months and years.” Sarah Jane Brangam, Co-Founder and Marketing Director, Cult Drinks (left), said: “We’re incredibly excited to be partnering with GM Marketing. They bring with them a huge amount of experience, massive distribution network and a dedicated team of professionals who will be working hard to list our brands with many more outlets across Ireland. It’s a golden opportunity for us and for GM Marketing and we’re excited for the future of the whole Cult Drinks portfolio.”

Diageo Ireland invest €1.7 million in community initiatives

DIAGEO Ireland have published their first ever Community Impact Report, detailing a substantial €1.7 million investment in community initiatives in the 12 months between July 2023 and June 2024. In addition to financial support for community initiatives and causes, Diageo employees have also volunteered a significant number of hours to help local schools and charities, particularly in the Dublin 8 area. €987,000 was invested in education and training provisions for students in the hospitality industry and in schools in the local community. €395,000 was invested by Diageo Ireland in cultural initiatives, supporting local events and artists, while €121,000 was invested in inclusion and diversity initiatives, promoting accessibility and inclusivity in the community. “Building on our legacy, we strive to make a positive impact in the communities where we operate,” said Shane Kelly, Director of Corporate Relations, Diageo Ireland. "This report reflects the dedicated work of our colleagues in fostering vibrant and inclusive communities full of creativity and opportunity. Initiatives

like Grow with Guinness and the Liberties Festival exemplify our commitment to the community. We're excited about the future and the opportunities to deepen our impact even further.”

Tesco stock wine owned by Hollywood A-lister

TESCO stores in Ireland are stocking a wine owned by a genuine, bona fide Hollywood superstar. Miraval Rosé Côtes de Provence, which is owned by none other than Brad Pitt, has launched in select Tesco stores nationwide. The ever-popular Miraval is classic and elegant with a pretty pale hue, and has aromas of redcurrant, rose and lemon, along with a refreshing acidity - making it the perfect gift for any rosé lover. “At Tesco, we’re seeing more and more people reach for rosé during the winter, even though it's traditionally associated with summer,” said Fiona Whelan, Wine Buying Manager at Tesco Ireland. “With its vibrant notes and refined finish, rosé brings a fresh twist to a festive meal and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering. It’s perfect as an aperitif or to pair with a delicious cheese board or decadent dessert.” As well as Miraval Rosé Côtes de Provence, Fiona’s other top rosé picks for the festive season include Tesco Finest Provence Rosé, La Vieille Ferme Rosé, Whispering Angel Rosé, and Cave Des Roches Coteaux D'aix En Provence.

Community Impact Report for Diageo Ireland for FY24

A year in wine

Jean Smullen looks back over the year in the Irish wine trade and reveals her wine importer, supermarket and event organiser of the year.

THE recently released 2023 Drinks Ireland Wine Report shows that 2023 was a positive year for the Irish wine market, with volume sales increasing by +6.9% to 9.4 million cases, up from 8.8 million in 2022. Wine is still the nation’s second most popular alcoholic beverage and while wine’s market share expanded, sales for other alcohol categories showed a small decrease during 2023. As in previous years, October to December were the most popular months for wine sales.

According to the data, Chile retains its crown as the most popular country of origin in terms of volume sales, with a 25.3% market share. Chile’s nearest rival is Spain, in second position with a 13.5% market share. Next comes Australia in third place, with 13.1% of the Irish market. French wines are in fourth place with 12.7% of the market, while Italy, with just over 10%, remains in fifth place. Sales of New Zealand wines continued to grow strongly during 2023; New Zealand is placed sixth overall, and showing the most significant growth, with a market share of 7.7% of total volume sales.

According to the report, the wine sector

contributed €395 million in excise duty alone to the exchequer. Cormac Healy, Director of Drinks Ireland, noted that in the past decade, wine alone generated €4.1 billion for the exchequer from excise. He states that Ireland now has the second highest excise rate on wine in the EU. Irish consumers pay €3.19 in excise per standard bottle of wine (13% ABV). For sparkling wine drinkers, the excise hit is doubled, with a rate of €6.37 on a standard bottle. While Budget 2025 did not change excise levels, Cormac and his colleague Jennifer Wallace, Director of Drinks Ireland | Wine, continue to call on the Government to move Irish alcohol excise levels closer to the EU norm.

A review of the year would not be complete without some acknowledgement and recognition for individuals and companies from the trade who made their mark promoting and progressing sales of wine on the Irish market during 2024.

Best promotional events

The prize for best generic promotional events organised this year goes to Food & Wine from Spain, and especially to their

Marketing Director, Sara Crespo from the Spanish Embassy in Dublin. Working with a team that included, among others, Sinead Smith, Lynda Coogan and Sevgi Tüzel-Conghaile, Sara was responsible for many excellent trade and consumer events promoting the regions of DO Rías Baixas, A Taste of Andalucía (DO Jerez) and DO Ribera del Duero, among many others. Her promotional programme culminated in ‘Eat Spain, Drink Spain’, a series of nationwide Spanish food and wine events, which took place from October 1-14, 2024, in food and drinks retailers and bars and restaurants nationwide, highlighting the very best of Spanish cuisine and wine. Well done to all involved for the very many innovative events they put together to promote Spanish wine this year.

Wine supermarket of the year

Aldi receive this year’s supermarket prize for their exclusive range of wines and their outstanding tastings, organised by Mary O’Connor of Legacy Communications, who worked closely with Rachael O’Connor, Buying Director for Wine at Aldi Ireland. Highlights of the year include Aldi’s 25th

Anniversary Party in the Conrad Hotel in June. In 1999, Aldi opened their first stores in Ireland on Parnell Street in the heart of Dublin and Westside Retail Park in Cork. Today, Aldi have 162 stores and employ over 4,650 people across Ireland. At their autumn/winter tasting in September, Aldi launched a snapshot of their new high quality, good value wines. The new wines from their autumn range that stood out for me included Louis Weiss Alsace Riesling (Alsace), Unearthed Beira Interior DOC White (Portugal), Specially Selected Aglianico del Vulture (Italy), Specially Selected Athlon Nemea (Greece) and Specially Selected Australian Malbec.

Well done to all the Aldi wine team, including Hazel Finney and everyone else involved in the wine sector for all their hard work this year.

Nika Tiki Sauvignon Blanc, a popular choice from Grace Campbell Wines.

Importing company of the year

Finally, my importing company of the year gong goes to Grace Campbell Wines, who continue to grow from strength to strength. Michael O’Brien bought the specialist Portuguese importing company from the legendary Kevin O’Hara two years ago. Now joined by Willie Dardis of Ampersand fame, they started to expand their portfolio and now, as well as being the ‘go to’ for

good quality Portuguese wine on the Irish market, they are now carefully developing their offering to include many interesting regional wines from both the old and new world. We wish Michael and all the team at Grace Campbell continued success during 2025 and look forward to tasting many of their new wines in 2025.

The Pegos Claros Reserva from Palmela, Portugal: one of the hottest wines from the Grace Campbell Wines portfolio.

Tasting events for 2025

As 2025 begins, the business of wine continues with several portfolio and generic tastings events already in the diary, some scheduled to take place on the same day, so forward planning will be needed.

Details of the 2025 Spring Tasting Events include:

Thursday, January 23

Monday, January 27

Tuesday, February 4

Tuesday, February 4

Borsa Vini Italia – Alex Hotel, D2.

Australia & New Zealand ATT – Alex Hotel, D2

Tindal Wine Merchants Portfolio Tasting – Marker Hotel, Docklands D2.

Findlater & Co Portfolio Tasting – Venue TBA February 10-12

Wine Paris & Vinexpo (Paris)

Monday, February 17

Liberty Wines Portfolio Tasting – Westbury Hotel, D2. Monday, February 24

Le Caveau Portfolio Tasting (Dublin) – Studio 10, D2. Monday, February 24

Cassidy Wines Portfolio Tasting – Westbury Hotel, D2. Wednesday, February 26

Monday, March 3

Monday, March 3

Le Caveau Portfolio Tasting (Cork) – Apple Market, Barrack Street.

Wine Cru Tasting – Fallon & Byrne, D2

Vinostito Spring Tasting – Venue TBA March 16-18

31st Edition of Prowein – Dusseldorf (Germany)

All dates confirmed at time of writing, end-November 2024. More Details about these events can be found in the wine diary which is updated regularly at jeansmullen.com

Employment Law

Key developments in employment law

Linda Hynes and Sinead Likely of Lewis Silkin review some of the key developments in Irish employment law over the last 12 months and what employers should look out for in 2025.

IT has been another busy year for employment law, with several key developments taking effect in 2024, and more on the horizon for 2025. There have been some significant decisions handed down by the courts and WRC this year, as well as legislation being passed or proposed. Many of these changes will have a substantial impact on employers, necessitating adjustments to policies, procedures, and in some cases to financial planning. In this article, we review some of the key updates and consider the impact of these for retail employers in Ireland.

Auto-enrolment

After much waiting, the legislation underpinning Ireland’s new auto-enrolment system was finally passed in July this year. The Government announced that the new scheme is expected to commence on September 30, 2025, and will then gradually be phased in over a decade.

This will undoubtedly have a significant impact on employers and employees alike when it commences next year and planning for this now is key. Under the new scheme,

employees who meet the eligibility criteria (those aged between 23 and 60 and earning more than €20,000 annually), and who are not already enrolled in a workplace pension scheme, will be automatically enrolled in the new scheme. Contributions will start at 1.5% of employee gross salary and increase by 1.5% every three years to a maximum of 6% from year 10 onwards. Employers will match contributions made by employees, which are further topped up by the State. Employees can choose to opt out or suspend contributions after six months of service. The scheme will be administered by the National Automatic Enrolment Retirement Savings Authority (NAERSA), rather than by the employer. Even though NAERSA will be administering the scheme, it will still result in a certain level of increased administration for employers. Retail employers will need to assess which workers it must enrol and what (if any) contributions they and employees make to any existing occupational pensions scheme or Personal Retirement Savings Accounts. They will also need to assess whether their

existing pension plan (if they have one) qualifies as a vehicle for meeting the new auto-enrolment obligations and whether any changes should be made.

Many retail employers will inevitably see pension costs increase, either because they must raise contributions to match the minimum levels (which will continue to increase gradually over the 10-year phase in period) or because they need to enrol more workers. They will also have to facilitate payroll deductions, ensuring their payroll software, when updated, can take instruction for enrolment, calculate and pay employee and employer contributions to NAERSA.

Some employers will also face the dilemma of potentially having two sets of employees in different pension schemes (those already members of an occupational scheme and those who are not and who will therefore be automatically enrolled in the new scheme). To address this, employers may, for example, need to actively encourage all their employees to join their occupational pension scheme.

Employment contracts are likely to need updating also to reflect the new arrangements. The Department of Social Protection issued a ‘Guide to autoenrolment retirement savings system for employers’ on their website, which is a useful reference for employers on how the new scheme will operate.

Several high award decisions issued by the WRC over the last year highlight an increased focus on the need to maintain careful disciplinary processes, taking account of fair procedures and the principles of natural justice.

Pension reform

We have seen some major pension reform this year, with more expected in 2025. While the State pension age remains at 66 years of age this year, a new flexible pension age model was introduced from January 1, 2024, with certain employees now having the option to continue working up until the age of 70 in return for a higher pension. There is no corresponding obligation on employers to allow employees to continue working up to the age of 70. However, we expect the option to defer State pension will inevitably lead to an increase in the number of requests from employees to do so. Many employers, particularly those who still have a mandatory retirement age, may find this challenging.

The Government also announced plans in March 2024 to introduce legislation,

the Employment (Restriction on Certain Mandatory Retirement Ages) Bill 2024, which will allow employees to stay in employment until State pension age. It provides that, in general, an employer cannot set a compulsory retirement age below the State pension age if the employee does not consent to retire. This element of consent reflects the fact that many employees may still want to retire at the contractual retirement age. While only at heads of bill stage, this is one for retail employers to look out for as those that have a mandatory contractual retirement age will need to review these and existing retirement policies when it is eventually enacted.

Retirement ages and age discrimination Age discrimination claims in the WRC

increase year-on-year as the workforce ages. Many retail employers still set a contractual retirement age, as is permitted under Irish employment equality legislation (where it can be objectively justified). A challenge frequently facing employers is understanding how the concept of “objective justification” is to be applied when actually doing this in practice, as the issue normally only comes up when the retirement of an employee is approaching.

The Supreme Court decision in Mallon v Minister for Justice, Ireland, and the Attorney General, delivered in May 2024, provides some welcome clarity for employers on how the legality of mandatory retirement ages is to be assessed. Importantly, the decision clarifies that such mandatory limits can be set in relation to defined groups, based on general probabilities of age, health and competence and that an employer is not, in fact, required to justify the application of a general retirement age to an individual employee on a “case by case or role by role assessment”. This marks a significant shift from the approach taken by the WRC previously, where it had frequently emphasised the importance of considering mandatory retirement on an individual basis in determining whether the imposition of the mandatory retirement age was proportionate.

However, retail employers should be live to the fact that engaging on a 1:1 basis with employees who are approaching retirement will still be required, in accordance with the WRC’s Code of Practice on Longer Working.

Remote and flexible working

The trend of remote and flexible working has very much been in the spotlight this year, since the introduction of the statutory right of employees to request remote or flexible working arrangements in March 2024.

Many aspects of retail operations cannot be completed remotely, and for this reason the retail sector may not have experienced this trend to the same scale as some other sectors in recent years. However, several functions within retail operations can be completed by employees working from home and, regardless, retail employers need to understand these new rights and have proper processes in place for dealing with such requests from any of their employees when they arise.

Although not a requirement under legislation, it is prudent for employers to set out how requests should be submitted and processed and the conditions that will apply to remote working in general within

Employment Law

the organisation in a written remote and flexible working policy. The WRC published a Code of Practice for employers and employees on the right to request remote and flexible work arrangements, which provides practical guidance to employers in understanding these new rights and what should be included in any such policy.

We have also already seen the first reported cases come before the WRC this year where the employers refused remote work requests. In both cases, because the employers could demonstrate they had followed a proper process, the employees’ complaints were not upheld. These decisions are helpful as they show there is no scope for an employee to challenge an employer’s reasons for a refusal to grant a remote working arrangement or a decision to terminate the arrangement. However, they emphasise the importance of employers giving full and proper consideration to the requests being made by the employee in accordance with the requirements of the legislation and Code of Practice. A failure by an employer to properly manage requests for remote working can result in a potential award of up to four weeks' remuneration and, in the case of flexible working, up to 20 weeks’ remuneration.

Gender pay gap reporting

The threshold for reporting gender pay gaps dropped in 2024 to organisations with 150 or more employees. The threshold will drop again in 2025 to organisations with just 50 employees, making it relevant to significantly more employers than before. For retail employers who have not been obliged to report previously, they will need to think about how they will gather and process the required data.

At EU level, the Pay Transparency Directive imposes more onerous obligations on employers to report on wider data when reporting their gender pay gap. The Directive also introduces new individual rights on pay transparency, including that employees will have the a right to know the initial pay or pay range for the job before applying, they cannot be asked by a prospective employer about current pay or pay history, they can ask to know what comparable employees are paid on average, broken down by sex, and there will be a ban on pay secrecy clauses or practices. These new rights will apply to organisations, regardless of their size.

While the Directive will not come into force until June 2026, employers need to start preparing now and should consider carrying out a dry run to identify any

Employers need to be cognisant of key developments in employment law, with several changes on the horizon for next year.

issues before the new reporting obligations come in.

Maternity leave and equality law

New legislation, in the form of the Maternity Protection, Employment Equality and Preservation of Certain Records Act 2024, was passed in October 2024 and introduces some important changes important changes, which came into effect on November 20 following a commencement order. The Act amends existing maternity leave rights by providing for the postponement of maternity leave for a period of between five and 52 weeks for those who require treatment for a serious medical reason. It also amends the Employment Equality Acts by introducing a new measure to limit the use of nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) where an employee has alleged discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment or victimisation.

Regarding the use of NDAs in such circumstances, this will now only be permitted where the employee requests the employer to do so; the employee is offered independent legal advice, in writing, provided at the expense of the employer; the scope of the NDA is set out clearly in writing and the NDA provides that the employee can withdraw from the agreement without penalty no later than 14 days after the NDA is entered into. Such NDAs will be of unlimited duration, unless the employee elects otherwise.

Settling matters privately with the use

of NDAs is likely to become more widely used going forward, given that WRC cases are now held in public and so employers will need to bear these developments in mind when entering into any settlement agreement with an employee. It’s also important to review their maternity leave policies to reflect the new right to postpone maternity leave in certain circumstances.

Employment permits

The Employment Permits Act 2024 was enacted this year, with some of the changes under this coming into effect since September 2, 2024. One such change is to the Labour Market Needs Test; employers are no longer required to place adverts for roles in a national newspaper (an unfamiliar exercise for a modern workforce), making the overall recruitment process less burdensome for employers.

The Act also expands access to the employment permit system to employment agencies and subcontractors and introduces various measures to improve efficiency in the employment permit system. Such measures include reducing the period before a permit holder can change employer from 12 to nine months, removing the requirement to apply for a new employment permit in certain cases (for example, if the employment permit holder is promoted, receives an uplift in salary or is subject to an internal transfer within the employing company) and introducing a new six-month rule for permit holders to commence employment.

We will have to wait until 2025 for the introduction of the much-anticipated new seasonal employment permit. A pilot scheme for this new permit will be launched in 2025 and we await further information on this, once the detail of the new scheme is published.

Statutory sick pay

Since January 1, 2024, employees have been entitled to five days statutory sick pay. This was expected to increase to seven days in 2025 (and 10 days in 2026). However, the Government is reviewing this, as part of its business support measures, before making a decision on increasing payments in the future and so we will watch this space to see what happens.

Parent’s leave

Since August 1, 2024, parent’s leave and parent's benefit was extended from seven weeks to nine weeks. This leave is to be taken during the first two years of a child's life or in the case of adoption, within two years of placement. Retail employers may need to review and update any family leave policies to reflect the increased leave.

AI in the workplace

AI remains high on the agenda for many employers, particularly since the EU AI Act came into force in August this year, with obligations under it taking effect in several stages over the next two years. Employers will need to audit their business’ current and potential uses of AI that would be in scope of the Act and consider which roles will fulfil the human oversight requirements and what training and resources they may require to do so competently. Establishing good practice now, putting an AI policy in place and keeping it under regular review will be an integral part of the retailer’s employment toolkit for managing the risks posed by AI in the workplace.

National minimum wage

It was announced in the Budget 2025 that the national minimum wage will increase from January 1, 2025, to €13.50 per hour (currently it is €12.70). Plans to increase the Small Benefit Exemption were also announced – previously employers could provide up to two tax-exempt non-cash benefits to an employee in a year, with aggregate value of €1,000. This will increase to up to five benefits with an aggregate value of up to €1,500 from January 1, 2025.

Collective redundancies

Some changes to the collective redundancy process were introduced in July 2024 and

Employers will need to continue to review current policies and practices and adapt accordingly to stay ahead of changing employment legislation at both EU and local level.

employers need to ensure they are familiar with these. We may see claims under the new cause of action introduced by the 2024 Act, whereby employees can now bring a claim to the WRC if an employer/ responsible person effects collective redundancies prior to the expiry of the period of 30 days beginning on the date of the notification to the Minister. The WRC can award up to four weeks’ remuneration for each such breach. There have also been some changes to the information required to be notified to the Minister, and a new online form is available.

Decisions of note

Several high award decisions issued by the WRC over the last year highlight an increased focus on the need to maintain careful disciplinary processes, taking account of fair procedures and the principles of natural justice. They also serve as a reminder to employers of the importance of adhering to the Code of Practice on Grievance and Disciplinary Procedures which, although not legally binding, the WRC continue to place significant weight on.

A recent High Court decision also serves as a somewhat welcome clarification for employers on the law surrounding “no fault” dismissals and the threshold for employees to reach in seeking the intervention of the courts in the form of injunctions in such cases which, it is clear from this decision, is very high. Of course, a “no fault” termination is “unfair” under the unfair dismissals legislation and an

employee may still pursue a claim for unfair dismissal before the WRC.

Conclusion

There is plenty for retail employers to consider in terms of employment developments this year, and with further developments coming down the line at both an EU and local level next year and beyond, employers will need to continue to review current policies and practices and adapt accordingly to stay ahead.

About the authors

For further information on these topics, please contact Linda Hynes, Partner, or Sinead Likely, Senior Practice Development Lawyer, Lewis Silkin. This article is for general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. Legal advice should be sought in any given set of circumstances.

Forecourt Focus: Maxol

Maxol reveal 2023 trading figures

Maxol have announced their 2023 trading figures, and forecast a strong 2024, following a €65 million investment programme.

THE Maxol Group recently announced their full year trading figures for 2023, with CEO Brian Donaldson forecasting an even stronger performance for 2024, following an investment programme of €65 million during 2023/2024.

Despite continuous investment in its operations and the challenges of the last four years (including Covid pandemic, inflation, Brexit and global geo-political unrest), the Group finished 2023 in a strong financial position, with no net bank debt and a substantial cash surplus.

• 2023 Group turnover was €756 million: with cost of fuel down, this represented a decrease of €120 million on 2022 (€876 million).

• Group profit after tax was €27.5 million (€37.8 million in 2022, which included a once-off gain from the sale of a valuable property in Dublin 4).

“More than 40% of Maxol’s gross profit now comes from non-fuel sales, which is central to the repositioning of the company as a leading convenience retailer,” said Brian Donaldson. “Income from convenience retail and food and car washing, together with new mobility offerings, have grown significantly in importance for the Group.”

The CEO noted that the repositioning of the business is being driven by a multimillion investment programme in their store network: “The service station of 2024 is very different to that of 10 years ago and we are creating destination

stores that offer a wide-range of eat-in and food-to-go options, where customers can have a meal or a coffee and access good Wi-Fi in comfortable surrounds.”

Maxol’s €65 million investment in the business since 2023 includes the acquisition of nine new sites, which are now operating under the Maxol brand, as well as the redevelopment / retrofit of 12 stores in the Republic of Ireland and five in Northern Ireland with innovations such as new food concepts, upgraded car wash and payat-pump facilities, Wi-Fi, more parking and more choice of goods and services for customers. Burger City is now part of the enhanced food offering at Maxol Adamstown and Maxol M7 in Kill. The redevelopment of an additional three sites in the Republic and two in Northern Ireland are nearing completion, including the site at M3 Mulhuddart, where there will be a new Zambrero and Supermacs drive-thru.

Maxol’s first Ultra Rapid EV Hub in the Republic of Ireland launched in Newbridge earlier this year, featuring six high speed 200kw chargers offering a 15-minute charge time.

Acquisition driving growth

Earlier this year, seven forecourt sites in Leinster were acquired from Naas Fuels Limited. The multi-million euro investment has been supported by a €3 million retrofitting programme, which was

Brian Donaldson, Managing Director of the Maxol Group, pictured at Maxol’s first Ultra Rapid EV Hub in the Republic of Ireland in Newbridge, Co. Kildare.

completed at the end November, with the rebranded Maxol stores offering the latest Maxol instore concepts with a Maxol Deli and Rosa Coffee stations.

Killeens in Wexford and Candy’s in Carnew, Co. Wicklow, also joined the Maxol network during the 2023/2024 period, bringing to 250 the number of Maxol service stations on the island of Ireland. 122 are company owned (89 in ROI, 33 in NI) with 128 supplied under the Maxol brand and operating as independent dealer-owned sites (58 ROI, 70 in NI).

“This has been a very big year for the company with acquisitions and redevelopments dominating our growth strategy,” said Brian Donaldson. “We remain hugely ambitious and will go into 2025 looking to acquire more sites in good locations that present strong convenience retail opportunities. We are focused on sites where we know that non-fuel sales can yield over 67% of gross profit, in line with the repositioning of the Maxol business.”

EV slow-down Maxol’s investment strategy includes the roll-out of more ultra rapid EV hubs, but Brian Donaldson explained that the slowdown in EV adoption could impact the speed at which the business would develop their EV charging network.

“EV adoption has slowed,” he insisted. “New EV sales to October are down almost 26% on 2023 (Source: SIMI). While we recognise that our sector has a key role to play in supporting EV adoption, we are faced with significant challenges. Planning delays and access to power capacity have been issues from day one, but now we are also concerned about developing our charging network too quickly, when the demand isn’t there. EV technology is evolving continuously, so we have to manage the pace of our own development to safeguard against becoming outdated too soon.”

The EV market, Donaldson contended, is experiencing “a chicken-and-egg conundrum and all stakeholders, particularly government, need to revisit ways in which drivers can be better incentivised to make the switch to electric”.

Notwithstanding, Maxol will open their next Ultra Rapid EV hub in Rathnew in 2025 and a number of other sites are being considered.

Value amid intensified competition Donaldson outlined how despite intense competition in the retail convenience market, with all retailers competing for a

share of household income, Maxol have seen customers continue to shop locally, favouring convenience and with average transactional spend up.

Forecourt Focus: Maxol

“Shopping behaviours are value driven and we have seen this trend deepen this year, but not at the expense of quality or time,” he said. “Our customers value their time as much as they value quality, so we have to ensure we deliver on both. Our loyalty app, for example, offers rewards on coffee, car wash and extra value in-store, and also allows customers to pay for their fuel directly from the app.

Maxol hvoPRO, a second generation biofuel produced from renewable feedstocks that reduces carbon emissions by up to 90% vs regular diesel has been introduced to eight forecourts, with additional sites being added over the coming months.

“By investing in our forecourts and stores and by using technology, we are making the customer journey a faster and more rewarding experience – a frictionless one. So paying at the pump or on the app, self-service check-outs, more food options, contactless payments on car washes and more parking, are all contributing to attracting and importantly, retaining customers.”

2024 highlights

So far, highlights in 2024 include:

The rollout of Maxol’s Rosa Coffee concept, including new coffee machines at 81 company-owned stores following the launch of oat milk and iced coffee variants. Maxol Rosa Coffee cup sales and barista coffee in NI for 2024 are expected to hit 4.3 million, an increase of 3.3% on 2023.

• Maxol’s car wash business continues to perform well, and an expected 665k vehicles will pass through a Maxol car wash in 2024.

• Maxol Lubricants, a division of The Maxol Group, completed a packaging refresh of the existing line of products. All lubricants packaging now contains at least 30% and up to 50% recycled plastic, in line with the company’s wider efforts to reduce its environmental footprint across the business.

Maxol hvoPRO, a second generation biofuel produced from renewable

feedstocks that reduces carbon emissions by up to 90% vs regular diesel, was introduced to eight forecourts, with additional sites being added over the coming months. In 2024, Maxol transitioned 50% of their fleet to hvoPRO, achieving a reduction of circa 45% in annual carbon emissions.

Brian Donaldson believes that the opportunities for HVO in motoring, agriculture and aviation are enormous, and that government needs to reduce the duty on more sustainable fuels to help encourage and grow adoption.

The company’s Homegrown at Maxol programme entered its second year, giving local producers an opportunity to have their products distributed across the network of Maxol stores in the Republic of Ireland. Homegrown at Maxol offers customers more high-quality products from local Irish producers, such as the programme’s 2024 winners; The Foods of Athenry, All Real Nutrition, fiid, Parachute and Blanco Nino.

Local

The Maxol Group MD is looking ahead to 2025 with confidence amid further plans for growth as part of Maxol’s five year, €175 million investment strategy (20232027): “While we are growing at a steady and controlled pace, we are fast becoming known for our high quality food and retail convenience offering. However, our longestablished values as a family-owned business have not changed. These values guide our strategy, which is to develop and acquire sites that are located in local communities and that are operated by local people, employing local people.”

Operating as an Irish family business for more than 104 years, Maxol employs 85 people directly and more than 1,300 indirectly across the island of Ireland.

Applegreen to invest €1 billion in major expansion programme

APPLEGREEN are set to invest €1 billion over the next five years to expand their business, including a major expansion in Ireland and the United States, as well as investments in their Welcome Break business in Britain, and their growing EV charging network.

“This is a very significant expansion programme for Applegreen, as we continue to invest to expand our business in Ireland, the United States, and the UK,” said Applegreen co-founder and Group Chief Executive, Joe Barrett. “Applegreen plans to invest €1 billion in the business over the next five years as we redevelop our sites and grow our operations, both organically and through acquisitions. Our current operations provide a very strong foundation on which to build the next phase of growth for Applegreen in each of its three markets.”

In Ireland, Applegreen will continue the roll out of their Braeburn coffee offer and their partnership with M&S Food. “We currently operate M&S at 19 of our locations in Ireland and we intend to grow that number to over 60 sites,” said Barrett. “We also plan to expand our network of motorway and roadside service areas in Ireland and the UK, and to grow our EV charging networks in both countries.”

In the United States, Applegreen currently operates more than 100 motorway service areas, and they believe there is significant scope to expand this part of their overall business. Food is now the main element of Applegreen’s business in the US, where it operates restaurant and café brands such as Burger King, Shake Shack, Chick-fil-A, Popeyes, Starbucks, Dunkin, Panera Bread and Panda Express. “Applegreen is a hospitality business, as we have over 700 food outlets across our estate, including 300 in the United States, and traditional fuel now accounts for less than 20% of our gross profit,” noted Barrett.

Earlier this year, Applegreen opened a new €10 million service area at Clondrinagh in Limerick and upgraded their Midway Service Area in Portlaoise with a €3 million investment. They are due to open a new motorway services area off the M3 in Dunshaughlin, Co. Meath, next year with an EV charging hub, a fuel forecourt, and four separate food options.

In the UK, Applegreen are growing their Welcome Break business, which operates 58 sites, including 34 motorway service areas, and 31 hotels.

Applegreen’s gross profit increased by 9% to €972 million last year, according to newly filed accounts for its parent company, Causeway Consortium Holdings. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) – which is a key performance measure for the company - increased by almost 7% to just under €271 million last year.

“Applegreen had a very positive performance in 2023 across all three of its markets,” Barrett said. “As we continue to bring new sites on board, upgrade some of our existing locations, and expand our EV charging network, we expect significant growth in the business in Ireland, the UK and the United States.”

Revenue from Applegreen’s food operations and convenience store business increased by 11% during the year. Total turnover at Applegreen, which employs 17,000 people at its 592 sites in Ireland, the UK and the United States, declined by almost 6% to €3.9 billion due to a fall in fuel prices. The Irish business generated sales of almost €1.1 billion last year, while Applegreen’s UK turnover was just over €2 billion, and US sales were worth €0.8 billion.

Applegreen recorded a loss before tax of just under €83 million last year, which was marginally lower than 2022, due to the impact of depreciation and amortisation, financing costs, and €12 million in non-recurring charges related to the opening of newly refurbished sites and the expansion of the Group’s EV business.

“We are currently in growth mode and are investing for the long-term strategic success of the business,” Barrett said.

Joe Barrett, Applegreen cofounder and Group Chief Executive.

Applegreen's Connie Chung Travel Plaza in New Jersey, part of the company's growing presence in the US.

Inver expand HVO offering at forecourt pumps

INVER Energy have announced the expansion of their supply offer in Ireland with Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), also known as renewable diesel, available at a further two forecourts in Co. Cork. As a national importer of fuel products and with over 100 retail forecourts, Inver has increasingly been extending its HVO offer to meet the changing needs of its customers.

The two new locations, Inver Charleville and Inver Macroom, have been identified as key sites for expanding Inver’s offer to consumers. “Inver Macroom and Inver Charleville are already established one-stop shops with convenience products and services tailored to the needs of locals and motorists,” noted John O’Leary, Managing Director, Inver. “Now, with HVO at the pumps, we can further support customers looking to reduce their carbon emissions, reflecting changing customer demands and supporting the energy transition.”

Making renewable fuels widely available to customers is part of Inver’s commitment to supporting Ireland’s energy transition, as

John explained: “Since 2023, we have been successfully supplying HVO, primarily to commercial and industrial customers’ fleets. We are now working on expanding that offer across our retail forecourt network.”

Homegrown at Maxol winners announced

MAXOL have announced the five winners of their 2024 Homegrown at Maxol programme. Following a nationwide search for Ireland’s finest indigenous food and drinks products, the winning companies will be provided 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.

Now in its second year, Homegrown at Maxol was created to shine a light on Ireland’s world class artisan food and drink industry. “At Maxol our aim is to offer our customers ever more high-quality products from small Irish producers and that is why Homegrown at Maxol is so important to us,” explained Brian Donaldson, CEO, Maxol Group.

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

• All Real Nutrition, from Co. Kerry, a highly nutritious snack bar made from quality, natural ingredients and plastic free packaging.

• Blanco Niño, from Co. Tipperary, is an innovative Irish manufacturer producing world-class traditionally made tortillas and tortilla chips using ancient Aztec cooking methods.

• Parachute, from Dublin, is Ireland’s first CBD-infused drink, combining premium ingredients, fruity flavours and the natural benefits of CBD in a recyclable can.

• Convenience meal company fiid, from Dublin, is a certified B-Corp and carbon neutral producer, that makes nutritious, plant-based bowl quick meals from vegetables that are full of natural ingredients and bursting with flavour.

• Multi-award-winning bakery, Galway’s The Foods of Athenry are producers of a range of handmade, delicious snacks,

Homegrown at Maxol winners with (front) James Kavanagh & William Murray, Maxol's Eilis Hamilton & Pauline McCarthy.

rooted in traditional production methods, baked without compromise, or gluten.

“We have selected products that I know will be loved by both our retailers and our customers, and that are made by people whose sense of purpose aligns with our own values,” revealed Brian Donaldson. “Not only are these fantastic-tasting products but, where possible they are produced using sustainable and traditional methods, natural ingredients and eco-friendly packaging.

“What particularly impressed us about this year’s winners was the passion and love they have for their craft that was so evident from the moment we engaged with them. But what also stood out for myself and my fellow judges was the bravery of the people behind the winning products. Running a food or drinks business takes courage and enthusiasm and an incredible amount of drive, which these five producers clearly have in abundance. At the heart of the decision-making process was not only the flavour and quality of the products, but the compelling stories behind these homegrown brands.”

Inver Charleville, Co. Cork, one of two new locations to offer HVO to meet the changing needs of customers.

What’s New

SUPER FOODS FROM SUPER NATURE

NOELE McEvoy started Super Nature out of a simple passion for making her own natural treats for one of her daughters, who was unable to have dairy, gluten or processed sugar. Super Nature combine confectionery expertise with great recipes to produce their award-winning range. They make their own chocolate using just three ingredients and then add nuts; that's all! The Super Nature range is vegan, gluten free, dairy free, refined-sugar free with a lower sugar content. Their new range includes Hazel Nut Clusters, Almond Clusters, Chocolate Covered Hazelnuts, Chocolate Covered Almonds, Hazelnut Butter Cups and Peanut Butter Cups.

NESQUIK MINIS CEREAL: MINI SIZE, MAXI FUN!

NESTLÉ Cereals have announced the launch of Nesquik Minis, a playful take on the family favourite Nesquik cereal. This new mini format ensures everyone gets more of the delicious Nesquik chocolate taste and crunch they love in every spoonful, to bring fun to your mornings. Nesquik Minis may be small in size, but they provide maxi fun! Inspired by Nesquik Chocolate Milkshake, consumers just add milk to their bowl of Nesquik Minis and watch as the milk turns chocolatey! “Nesquik Minis are a chocolatey delight, packing big flavour into mini crunchy balls, that we are confident will add maximum fun to consumers' mornings,” said Jennifer Walsh, Country Manager, Nestlé Cereals.

SOLARESSE BODY MISTS LAND IN SUPERVALU

THIS Christmas, SuperValu are stepping up their gifting game with the launch of Solaresse Body Mists, the perfect stocking filler for teens and beauty lovers alike. Priced at just €4.99, these high-quality dupes of a popular body mist range are available at SuperValu stores from December 16, making luxury-inspired beauty accessible to everyone this holiday season. With three irresistible scents to choose from, the Solaresse Body Mist range is designed for those who love to stay on top of TikTok and Instagram beauty trends, without stretching their budget.

AN ALL-NEW GOLD BLEND EXPERIENCE WITH NESCAFÉ DOLCE GUSTO

NESCAFÉ have brought together two icons for a new way for consumers to experience the signature taste they know and love. Nescafé Gold Blend pods by Nescafé Dolce Gusto allow consumers to savour the comforting smoothness and rich aroma of Nescafé Gold Blend, now at the simple touch of a button. “We are delighted to welcome Nescafé Gold Blend pods as the latest addition to our Nescafé Dolce Gusto long black coffee range,” said Carol Anne Deasy, Nescafé Marketing Manager at Nestlé Ireland. “Coffee lovers will be able to enjoy the signature Gold Blend taste with their Dolce Gusto machine, elevating their morning coffee experience by bringing to life the fruity and cereal notes of this roast and ground coffee.”

THE HAPPY PEAR EXTEND MEALS RANGE

THE Happy Pear have introduced a new range of meals that feature foods rich in high-quality protein, without artificial preservatives or flavourings, along with enhancements to their existing meals range. The new Mushroom & Spinach Penne is a creamy meal packed with earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach, providing an impressive 17 grams of plant-based protein. The new Mexican Style Burrito Bowl offers a hearty blend of beans, rice and vibrant spices that take your taste buds on a Mexican culinary adventure. They have also enhanced some of their core meals range, including Veggie Lasagne and Shepherdless Pie, which along with The Chickpea Curry and Veggie Cannelloni, are also now in vibrant new packaging showcasing the simple, nutritious ingredients in each meal.

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