Retail News June 2022

JUNE 2022

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Jobs. Communities. Provenance.

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Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie|1

Contents

Supporting homegrown heroes PERHAPS more than at any time in our history, the pandemic brought home the importance of buying local to Irish consumers, and the results of new research from SuperValu bear that out.

77% of respondents agree that Covid-19 highlighted the importance of buying more Irish products, and almost two thirds have made a conscious decision to buy more Irish and local products over the last year. This is great news for Irish brand owners, and indeed for Irish retailers, who can use the opportunity to highlight homegrown brands on their shelves, thereby giving consumers what they want and supporting Irish businesses.

SuperValu and Centra have long been renowned as champions for Irish brands. We talk to Ian Allen, MD, about the retail groups’ plans for the year ahead, the pandemic trends that have stuck with us and the challenges facing the sector in the second half of 2022 (Page 14).

We hear from some of the biggest representative organisations for homegrown brands in our special ‘Buying Irish’ section (Page 45-58). We also report from Bord Bia Bloom 2022, where a mixture of our best-known and newest food and drink companies got to meet their customers face-to-face for the first time in three years, while also getting to talk to over 250 retail and foodservice buyers at a Bord Bia-organised trade breakfast event (Page 20).

Kathleen Belton Editorial & Marketing Director

News

GS1 Ireland

2

24 Maria Svejdar, Head of Marketing,

New food ombudsman: a fair deal for retail?

3

Maxol service station wins European retail award

4

Centra reveal sales of €1.98 billion in 2021; National Lottery reveal 118 county winners in Good Causes Awards.

5

CCPC requires Tesco to sell Joyce’s Oranmore store; Obituary: Ray Coyle.

6

START campaign aims to help parents reduce treats; Consumers call for sustainability supports for dairy farmers.

7

Grocery sales fall as shoppers react to rising prices; The Fed welcome €30m boost for Irish postmasters.

Retail News Interview 14 Ian Allen, Managing Director, SuperValu and Centra, discusses the big issues facing the grocery market, from the pandemic trends that have stuck with us to the worrying rate of inflation, the difficulty in attracting and retaining staff and the reasons why the sustainability agenda is taking centre stage.

14

Vaping 18 Elf Bar is a

leading disposable vaping brand which is taking the market by storm.

Bord Bia Bloom 2022 20 More than 110,000 visitors returned to Bord Bia Bloom, Ireland’s largest gardening, food and family festival, over the June Bank Holiday weekend.

Communications and CX, GS1 Ireland, examines the evolution of the barcode and heralds the future of digital product passports.

TWIG Networking Lunch 32 The TWIG networkingg lunch took place recently, with a top-class panel of speakers, on the theme, ‘Embracing Change’.

Buying Irish

32

45 The importance of supporting Irish brands in your store is brought home by recent research, which reveals that Irish consumers are actively seeking out homegrown brands. We hear from Guaranteed Irish, SuperValu and Love Irish Food, amongst others, about the importance of stocking local.

GDPR 64 New challenges lie ahead as GDPR turns four, reports Morgan Stokes.

Dettol 67 44% of respondents polled for new research said they rarely or never use a bacteria-killing disinfectant spray on soft surfaces.

Cold Storage 69 Elizabeth Bowen, Irish Cold Stores Federation, calls on Government to incentivise temperature-controlled stores to invest in resource efficiency.

Employment Law 74 Barry Reynolds, Aisling Parkinson and Chris Ryan of DAC Beachcroft stress the importance of fair procedures during redundancy, particularly in the wake of a recent court decision.

Regulars & Reports

Retail News Ireland’s Longest Established Grocery Magazine

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8 Industry News 26 Snack Foods 34 Waste Management & Recycling 39 Good 4 U 59 Retail Ireland: Monthly Update 60 Pet Care 72 Drinks News 77 What’s New 78 Forecourt Focus: News 80 Shelf Life

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News

New food ombudsman:

A NEW food ombudsman, whose role will be to “enhance transparency” within the food supply chain in Ireland, should not impede on competition and market forces in the Irish grocery sector, according to supplier and retail representatives. The independent statutory authority is being enacted under the Agricultural and Food

Paul Kelly, Director of Food Drink Ireland.

Supply Chain Bill 2022, and will act as the state’s enforcement authority for Unfair Trading Practices (UTP) legislation.

“The enforcement authority cannot have a remit in assessing the genuine commercial negotiations of suppliers and retailers,” said Paul Kelly, Director of Food Drink Ireland. “Such a level of intervention would negatively affect the dynamic in the sector to deliver on consumer demands for value, quality and convenience.”

Arnold Dillon, Director of Retail Ireland, told RETAIL NEWS that while his organisation appreciated the need to “ensure fairness and sustainability” in the agri-food supply chain, “it is crucial that the proposed legislation facilitates free and fair competition, to ensure value, quality and choice for consumers”.

The Office for Fairness and Transparency in the Agri-Food Supply Chain will engage with retailers, according to Dillon: “We anticipate that the new authority will have ongoing engagement with retailers during the course of its work, although its exact form has yet to be fully

determined. This will depend on the final legislation.”

Kelly welcomed the proposed legislation, which is currently with the Office of Parliamentary Counsel and will be presented to both Houses of the Oireachtas when complete, describing it as comprehensive in its ambitions. Retail Ireland is drafting submissions on how the authority can take a “balanced approach to regulating the food supply chain”.

The new office aims to analyse pricing in the Irish market and engage with processors, wholesalers, farmers, as well as retail. It will also have the power to enforce the EU Directive on Unfair Trading Practices (UTPs), which transposed into Irish law in April 2021. The Unfair Trading Practices Enforcement Authority is currently located in the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine, where it was established on an interim basis.

According to a spokesperson for the Department of Agriculture, the Interim UTP Authority is engaging with “the largest businesses operating across the agricultural and food products supply chain, who have been requested to nominate a Compliance/ Liaison Officer as the designated contact to ensure compliance with the UTP regulations.

For the largest businesses in the State at the top end of the supply chain, including the largest retailers, [the authority is] holding meetings with the nominated Officer on a quarterly basis and seeking more details on specific actions taken/planned by the business to ensure ongoing compliance.”

A survey commissioned by the Interim UTP Authority, published in May, found that 53% of supplier respondents had been subject to ‘Black UTP’s’, which are prohibited in all circumstances. For example, 32% of claimants said they had received payment later than 30 days for perishable agricultural and food products.

Tara Buckley, Director General of RGDATA, noted that the new regulator is more likely to engage with large

wholesalers and retail groups than small retailers. “We wanted to make sure there weren’t onerous obligations on smaller retailers with a very small footprint, because they were not the problem, in terms of farmers being worried about fair practices,” she said.

The proposed authority – and the corresponding UTP legislation – is geared to protect producers and suppliers.

“Effective legislation can prevent retailers transferring excessive risks and costs of doing business onto suppliers without placing undue burdens on retailers,” said Kelly. “It should ensure that the risks and costs of responding to changing consumer demands are shared equitably between supplier and retailer, allowing both to grow sustainable businesses. This should be the focus of the new office.”

But what about alleged unfair trading practices against retailers? In the Interim UTP Authority survey, 11% of supplier respondents claimed to have experienced the ‘Black UTP’ of “unilateral contract changes”. This applies specifically to the agri-food sector, but retailers have also alleged “unilateral contract changes” in Irish newspaper distribution, when carriage service charges are increased without consultation.

“Competition law is rarely sympathetic to SMEs in relation to larger suppliers, once they can suggest that the end user (the consumer) is a shared beneficiary of their actions,” said Vincent Jennings, CEO of CSNA. According to Peter Gaughan, owner of a Spar store in Balla, Co. Mayo, the selling price of cigarettes is dictated by the cigarette supplier, which he described as “patently unfair, especially for something that is a big part of our mix”.

Arnold Dillon, Director of Retail Ireland.

Jennnings also condemned “the linking of supplies of one product, with an insistence the store sells other products from the range”.

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News

a fair deal for retail?

Tara Buckley, Director General of RGDATA.

Tara Buckley said that RGDATA had made representations of complaints to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission without any action taking place.

“In the absence of a regulator to look at unfair trading practices right across business, the only people around are the Competition Commission and they’ve never taken on board complaints we’ve made to them,” she remarked. “We made complaints in the past about newspaper distributors, mobile phone top-ups, and other people who have monopoly positions in the market and are much bigger

than the retailers dealing with them. But nothing changed in the way they operate.”

In the case of the existing UTP legislation, she added, “there are huge, global suppliers who are much bigger than BWG and Musgrave, for example. They have these protections and BWG or Musgrave don’t have them.”

A spokesperson for the Department of Agriculture told RETAIL NEWS that the interim UTP Enforcement Authority “has been assigned all the necessary legal powers to investigate complaints from suppliers of agricultural and food products, to carry out investigations on its own initiative, and to initiate legal proceedings for breaches of the unfair trading practices defined in the Directive… Once the new Office is established, these powers of enforcement and investigation shall transfer accordingly.”

The purpose of the UTPs is to protect smaller, primary producers and not larger multi-national corporations, argued Arnold Dillon “and this needs to be reflected in the legislation”.

Vincent Jennings, CEO of CSNA.

Paul Kelly called for the legislation to apply “to all grocery suppliers and not just farmers and suppliers up to €350m turnover, as is currently the case with the transposed UTP Directive. Such an extension would align with the scope of the Irish Grocery Goods Regulations 2016, which covered the relationship between Regulated Grocery Goods Undertakings and suppliers, regardless of size. Ireland had comprehensive protections in place for grocery suppliers until the 2016 Regulations were withdrawn and this should be rectified.”

Maxol service station wins European retail award

Pictured are: Henry O. Armour, NACS President & CEO; Ciaran McNally, Chief Retail Officer, Maxol; Brad Schumacher, VP Global Key Accounts & Marketing, Dover Fuelling Solutions; Siobhan Grimes, Head of Retail for Maxol; Mark Wohltmann, Director, NACS Global; Thomas McMullan, Property Manager, Maxol; and Brian Donaldson, CEO, The Maxol Group (holding the award).

MAXOL’s service station at Ballycoolin, Dublin, has beaten off strong competition from all over Europe to be named European Convenience Retailer of the Year.

The award was presented to Maxol Ballycoolin during the 2022 NACS Convenience Summit Europe in Berlin, with the judges agreeing that the service station is an excellent representation of how Maxol are future-proofing their business by

focusing on customer needs and delivering a food-focused experience.

The NACS European Convenience Retail Awards recognise and promote convenience and forecourt retailing excellence in Europe and provide retailers with the opportunity to showcase their innovation and creativity to the global retailing community. Maxol are no stranger to NACS awards and last year, they won the 2021 NACS European Convenience

Retailer Best of the Best Store Award for the redevelopment of their service station in Newbridge, Kildare.

“Being recognised on the European stage as a leader in convenience retailing is hugely rewarding and I’m thrilled for all of the team that have worked so hard on achieving this award for Maxol Ballycoolin,” said Brian Donaldson, CEO of The Maxol Group. “This award recognises how Maxol are transforming from being a traditional forecourt retailer to becoming a leader in innovation and creating the service station of the future. Our partner Aramark and their dedicated team at Maxol Ballycoolin are incredible ambassadors for the Maxol brand both in Ireland and now, across Europe.”

Aramark, the global specialist in food and facilities management services, operates the Ballycoolin service station on behalf of Maxol and speaking about the win, Mark Cribbin, Account Director at Aramark Ireland, said, “This award is proof of the success of the Maxol-Aramark partnership, which continues to go from strength to strength. We are so proud of our people in Ballycoolin, who bring the best of service to both the local community and the significant passing trade in the area. Ballycoolin is a very busy service station and consistently delivers the highest of standards.”

For more information, visit www.maxol.ie.

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News Centra reveal sales of €1.98 billion in 2021 CENTRA have reported strong sales of €1.98 billion and 2.5% annual growth for 2021. The retailer has also announced a €25m investment in an ambitious expansion programme, which will see 18 new Centra stores open in 2022, creating over 430 new jobs in local communities around the country. The expansion programme is in addition to the 11 new Centra stores opened in 2021 and the €17m deployed last year to revamp and refresh 64 existing stores. Centra support over 38,000 jobs and directly employ 11,716 people across the 483 stores operating in Ireland.

Throughout the pandemic, shoppers sought convenient meal solutions and tasty treats, driving demand for Centra’s cook at home prepared ranges. Moo’d Ice Cream, Centra’s high-quality Irish Ice Cream concept, recorded sales of €10m last year, up over 52% on 2020. The Inspired

By Centra range saw strong growth with a 40% increase in sales, while the Freshly Prepared range of meals also saw a 40% jump in sales, demonstrating growing consumer demand for convenient, own brand products and meals.

“This robust sales performance underscores our position as Ireland’s leading convenience retailer,” said Ian Allen, Centra Managing Director. “We

by leading economist Jim Power. The report highlights the financial contribution of Centra stores is valued at an estimated €646.7m. Direct employment by Centra creates approximately €38m in employment taxes and generates a total net wage of €160.4m, which is injected into local economies.

“The economic impact report highlights the hugely positive role Centra continues to play in providing support and employment to localities Pictured are Ciaran Mangan, Centra Council Chair, with Ian nationwide,” said Ian Allen. “Local Allen, MD, Centra, and Cormac Dawson, Sales Director.

Centra stores play a very active role in their communities and have seen significant growth, driven by make a significant financial contribution increasing consumer demand for healthy through employment but also the various and high-quality own brand products at sponsorships and support for numerous reasonable prices. We are continuously charities. In 2021, Centra stores spent €2.1m redefining convenience retail to ensure we on local sponsorships and payments to a satisfy the evolving needs of our shoppers wide array of local and national charities. We by offering market-leading ranges. We are immensely proud of Centra’s position are acutely aware of the rising cost of at the heart of communities around Ireland, living challenges and we are working hard and we look forward to bringing our highwith our suppliers and retail partners to quality convenience offering and unrivalled continue delivering the best value and customer service to new communities quality to our customers.” across the country, while continuing to The announcement follows the support local Irish producers and suppliers.” publication of an economic impact report

National Lottery announces 118 county winners in Good Causes Awards

Pictured at the launch of the 2022 National Lottery Good Causes Awards is Sonya Lennon, Chair of the Awards judging panel.

A DRAGON boat club from the West of Ireland, a blood bike group serving the North East region of Ireland, an Irish language radio station based in Dublin and a refuge providing emergency accommodation to victims of domestic violence are amongst 118 groups, sports clubs, community projects and organisations from all over Ireland announced recently as county winners in the National Lottery Good Causes Awards 2022.

The awards were created to honour and showcase the inspiring work being carried out by thousands of projects, clubs and individuals in their local communities across Ireland thanks to National Lottery Good Causes funding. Nearly 30-cent of every euro spent on National Lottery games goes back to Good Causes all over the country.

“The stories and insights that we read in this year’s entries truly exemplified the positive impact that the groups, sports clubs and organisations who receive National Lottery funding, are having in towns and villages all over Ireland,” revealed Andrew Algeo, National Lottery CEO. “Celebrating the inspirational work being carried out by these extraordinary beneficiaries and recognising the effect that they have on their communities is exactly what the Good Causes Awards are all about.”

The National Lottery CEO went on to describe how significantly more individuals, charities, groups, projects and organisations all over Ireland could

benefit from Good Causes funding if a ban on lottery betting were to be introduced: “Our ambition is to do more for communities all over Ireland and we hope that soon, this will become a reality. If the practice of betting on lottery games were to be finally banned in Ireland, as it is in most EU countries, our research shows that National Lottery sales would increase by at least €228m, which would result in approximately €63m in additional funding for the Good Causes fund, which would have a huge impact on communities all over Ireland.

Last year, Benefacts established that 34% of all charitable giving in Ireland in 2021 was attributable via the National Lottery. We believe that even more charitable and community groups would directly benefit if a ban on lottery betting was put in place.”

The awards culminate in a Gala Awards Dinner in Kildare on Saturday, October 1.

The full list of county winners can be found at www.lottery.ie/good-causesawards/county-winners.

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News

CCPC requires Tesco to sell Joyce’s Oranmore store

Natasha Adams, CEO, Tesco Ireland.

redesign the Joyce’s Supermarkets as Tesco stores on a phased basis.

“As we celebrate 25 years of Tesco in Ireland, the approval of this acquisition is an exciting opportunity to continue to grow our business for the future; bringing great value, quality and broad range of products and services to the customers and communities of Galway City and county,” said Natasha Adams, CEO, Tesco Ireland.

Meanwhile, Tesco Ireland have announced a significant investment in pay rates and enhancement to benefits for retail colleagues. The retailer announced an overall 10% pay award for retail

colleagues that covers 2021, 2022 and 2023, and will apply as follows: • A 6% pay award effective from April 1, 2022 (2.5% of which will be backdated to April 2021); • A 4% pay award effective from April 1, 2023.

The pay award follows recent investment in benefits, including paid maternity, paternity and adoptive leave, and the introduction of a new industry leading pension plan, representing a total investment in pay and benefits of €40m. This pay award is additional to two years of discretionary colleague bonus payments of 2.5% for 2021 and 2% for 2022.

Natasha Adams said the pay award was a positive day for colleagues: “I am pleased to be able to make this announcement for our colleagues at a challenging time for families with rising living costs. Solidifying this pay award will help to provide certainty of pay and benefits for our colleagues, secure our business and jobs in the years ahead and continue to make Tesco a great place to work. Our colleagues are at the heart of our business, and I thank them for their continued hard work and dedication to serving our customers and communities.”

THE Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has cleared the proposed acquisition by Tesco Ireland of Joyce’s Supermarkets, subject to a number of legally binding commitments, including requiring Tesco IT was with great sadness that RETAIL NEWS to sell Joyce’s Oranmore learned of the passing of Raymond Coyle, the supermarket to a suitable former Largo Foods CEO. A true entrepreneur purchaser, who will be and visionary, Ray was a leading light of the subject to CCPC approval.

Irish snack food market for decades. He regularTesco have also ly featured in the pages of RETAIL NEWS during his committed not to carry out years in charge at Largo Foods (latterly Tayto any act which may have a Snack Foods), and was always great company, significant adverse impact as well as an authority on all things snack foods. on the supermarket before On one memorable visit in 2009, he revealed his its sale, and not attempt ambitious plans for Tayto Park, which opened to acquire the business the following year – during the same meeting, back for a period of time he offered our Marketing Director, Kathleen following its sale. To Belton, a ride on a buffalo: we’re still not sure ensure compliance with if he was entirely joking. Good humoured and these commitments, an charismatic, Ray Coyle will be sorely missed. independent monitoring “Ray was a wonderful entrepreneur and trustee will be appointed. brought innovative thinking into the Irish Tesco Ireland food business, establishing an iconic brand,” welcomed the CCPC remembered Ibec CEO Danny McCoy. “He was decision. Working with the creator of the remarkable development of the Joyce family, Tesco Largo Foods and Tayto Park, creating considerable job opportunities in the process. Ibec and the will now move forward to wider business community offers its condolences to the Coyle family for their loss.” complete the transaction RETAIL NEWS would like to extend our sympathies, and those of the entire Irish grocery industry, and thereafter begin the to his wife Roz, children Natalya and Charles, and all his many friends and relations. process to rebrand and

Obituary: Ray Coyle

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News

START campaign aims to help parents reduce treats A NEW campaign from safefood, the HSE and Healthy Ireland is encouraging parents to take a step towards a healthier family lifestyle by reducing the amount of treats they give their children.

The START campaign aims to support parents and guardians to talk to children about reducing treats as a family and minimise intake of foods high in fat, salt and sugar. The campaign website, www.makeastart.ie, includes lots of practical advice and support on how to reduce treats, ideas for healthy snacks and advice from parenting experts.

Families spent on average €160 on treat foods like crisps, chocolate and biscuits during April 2022 (Kantar FMCG data for families with children under 16 for four weeks ending April 17, 2022).

“Parents know the impact that the past two years has had on their family’s life and the pressures that they face, especially with household food budgets tightening,” noted Dr Aileen McGloin, Director of Nutrition with safefood. “Parents are trying to reduce treats but they need some support in achieving that; whether it’s advice on how to make a plan as a family

Pictured at the launch of the START campaign from safefood, the HSE and Healthy Ireland is Alexander Bellintani, aged 10.

to go easy on the treats; not buying as many when shopping; or guidance on how to talk to others in your family circle about offering smaller treats and not every day.

All families have different circumstances so it’s about choosing what works for you and your children and making a start with that to make healthier choices.”

Consumers call for sustainability supports for dairy farmers farmers to further enhance the sustainability of Ireland’s grassbased dairy production process.

The vast majority believe that the dairy industry is committed (67%) to producing dairy more sustainably and that the sector has a greater role to play in the coming years as the EU strives to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.

Crucially, a large majority of consumers (72%) said they are willing to pay more for dairy products on the basis that farmers can demonstrate the funds are being used for sustainability initiatives.

Almost half of consumers think Irish dairy contributes to the preservation of the landscape, but they also have a strong message to send to dairy farmers Zoe Kavanagh, Spokesperson for the European Milk citing water quality, biodiversity and Forum in Ireland and Chief Executive of the National alternatives to chemical fertilisers as Dairy Council. priority areas for action.

IRISH consumers are overwhelmingly These are some of the key backing dairy production in Ireland (84%) findings of new national research of over and are calling for more supports for dairy 1,500 Irish adults released by the European

Milk Forum (EMF) as part of its ‘Dairy in a Healthy and Sustainable European Food System’ campaign.

“This research tells us that consumers recognise that Irish dairy farmers are committed to producing dairy in a sustainable manner and over half (54%) believe the sector is serious about farming more sustainably,” said Zoe Kavanagh, Spokesperson for the European Milk Forum in Ireland and Chief Executive of the National Dairy Council. “Ireland already has the most carbon-efficient production of dairy in the European Union owing to our grass-based system but so too the initiatives that farmers are implementing on-farm to further enhance sustainable production.”

Irish consumers are willing to back Irish dairy even further, with 24% highlighting they are happy to pay provided it goes to farmers to enhance sustainability and a further 48% also happy to pay provided they are shown the evidence of sustainability initiatives in the dairy production process. “At a time when the cost of living is such a central issue, the willingness of consumers to pay more is a clear demonstration of the value consumers place on Irish dairy,” said Zoe.

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News

Grocery sales fall as shoppers react to rising prices TAKE-HOME grocery sales fell by 6.5% in the 12 weeks to May 15, 2022, according to Kantar’s latest figures for Ireland. Irish shoppers are adjusting to increased prices as grocery inflation hits 5.5%, marking the first time it has risen above 5% since August 2013.

“Food and drink prices are continuing to climb, and the impact of this on grocery budgets is now unavoidable for many people,” explains David Berry, Managing Director for Kantar Worldpanel Ireland. “Our research shows the rising cost of living is a key concern for 81% of Irish consumers (Source: data from research with 1,002 Irish consumers on behalf of Permanent TSB). A staggering 62% expect that they will have to cut back on the amount of food they buy in response to current prices. We’ll be seeing the effects of inflation for months to come.”

Shoppers are shifting their behaviour to manage the cost of buying food, including by turning to cheaper alternatives. “People are now making four fewer trips to the supermarket on average per month than they were this time last year,” David notes. “Similarly, branded items, a firm favourite when we were treating ourselves more during the Covid-19 lockdowns, previously made up more than 50% of grocery sales in 2020 and 2021.

We’re now seeing clear signs that people are turning to retailers’ own label items instead, which are usually less

expensive. As a result, brands’ share of grocery spend has dropped to 49% in the latest 12-week period, which is equivalent to a €29m fall.”

Despite the tough circumstances, people have been enjoying the recent warmer weather and are looking ahead to the summer months. “Shoppers have been enjoying barbecue essentials as the June bank holiday edged closer,” David says. “Sales of BBQ meats, like burgers and sausages, and prepared salads have increased by 2% and 8% respectively in the latest 12-week period. Soft drinks have also seen a 5% boost this period, equating to an extra €5m through the tills. It’s likely that sales of these items will keep rising as we make the shift to more summery foods and leave the soups and stews behind, but prices are going up too. A trip to the supermarket to buy BBQ meat, salad, and soft drinks will now cost you €1 more on average in total than it would have last year.”

For the sixth consecutive period this year, Dunnes have retained their position as Ireland’s number one retailer, claiming a 22.3% share of the market.

“Sales among all the retailers are still in decline compared to lockdown last year, when people were far more reliant on supermarkets to stock up their cupboards,” David Berry reveals. “That said, Dunnes seems to be recovering well from the challenging Covid-19 period. The retailer’s current market share is now 1.2 percentage points higher than May 2021, boosted by 98,000 new shoppers in the latest 12-week period.”

Tesco (21.9%) are now slightly ahead of SuperValu (21.7%) in the race for second place. Tesco benefited from shoppers visiting the store more often, bucking the general market trend and allowing them to move just ahead of SuperValu. Lidl hold a 13.1% market share this period, with Aldi following on 12.2%.

The Fed welcome €30m boost for Irish postmasters THE Fed (Federation of Independent Retailers, formerly the NFRN) have welcomed the news that postmasters in Ireland will receive €30m of government funding over the next three years.

Eamon Ryan TD, Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, and Hildegarde Naughton

TD, the Minister of State with responsibility for postal matters, said the money will be used to support the renewal and development of the Post Office network.

The Fed’s Irish president Martin Mulligan, who is also a postmaster based in Athlone, said: This is fantastic news. I thank the executive for the effort they have

put into getting the Government to provide this much needed support. They have worked so hard over the last few years and it has been a hard battle.”

The state postal service owns the country’s 45 largest post offices but the vast majority are run by small business owners like Martin Mulligan.

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Industry News Nestlé Ireland partner with Cancer Trials Ireland CANCER Trials Ireland is the new Staff Charity of the Year for Nestlé Ireland, who aim to raise over €100,000 to assist Cancer Trials Ireland in their work to provide every patient diagnosed with cancer access to high-quality and potentially life-altering cancer trials. The announcement is part of Nestlé’s community partnership programme which involves Nestlé Ireland supporting worthy causes that make a real difference in communities nationwide.

Staff at Nestlé Ireland’s Citywest HQ selected Cancer Trials Ireland following an internal vote, with staff committing to a range of awareness and fundraising initiatives over the duration of the partnership. “Nestlé Ireland are committed to being a force for good and our staff charity programme is a demonstration of this commitment in action,” noted Kieran Conroy, Nestlé Ireland Country Manager, pictured with Eibhlín Mulroe, CEO, Cancer Trials Ireland.

GAA clubs can win €40,000 from Kellogg’s GAA clubs across the country are in with a chance of winning incredible prizes worth €40,000 as part of the Kellogg’s GAA Cúl Camps competition. Meath footballer Emma Duggan and TV presenter Emer O’Neill were on hand to officially launch with underage stars of Skryne GFC at the launch of the Kellogg’s GAA Cúl Camps on-pack competition, with €25k for first prize, €10k for second, and €5k for third.

To nominate their GAA club, all that is required is to purchase a promotional box of Kellogg’s Corn Flakes, Rice Krispies or Bran Flakes. Using a unique onpack code, consumers then log on to kelloggsculcamps.gaa.ie/competition and nominate their club of choice.

“We want to encourage everyone to nominate their club to be in with a chance. Through our partnership with the Kellogg’s GAA Cúl Camps, we are very proud to support the grassroots of the GAA,” said Sarah Ferguson, Kellogg Ireland General Manager.

Fyffes reward Ireland’s fittest school SCOIL na Croise Naofa in Dunfanaghy has been presented with a cheque for €5,000 worth of sports equipment from Irish banana distributors Fyffes following the announcement that the North Donegal primary school has been chosen as Ireland’s Fittest School. Fyffes Head of Marketing, Emma Hunt-Duffy, and Olympians Phil Healy and David Gillick, visited Scoil Na Croise Naofa in North Donegal to present the children with prizes for winning Ireland’s Fittest School competition.

For more information, visit www.fyffesfitsquad.ie.

Drumcondra store sells Lotto jackpot ticket worth €3.6m A SMALL shop located at the heart of a residential community in Drumcondra, has been revealed as the selling location for the May 24 Lotto jackpot winning ticket worth an astonishing €3,612,485. Sophie Javaid, who has owned the Extramart store on Home Farm Road in Drumcondra, Dublin 9, said: “Being situated in the middle of a close-knit community, it’s lovely to think that one of our local customers will be celebrating a big win this week.” Sophie is pictured (right) with staff member Seethal Antony and the National Lottery’s Simon Reenan, as news of the massive Lottery win was announced.

Tesco open Express store at Spencer Dock TESCO Ireland have opened the doors to a brand-new Tesco Express store at Spencer Dock, Dublin 1. The new store was officially opened by recently appointed store manager, Lar Mooney (pictured), who welcomed customers into the 4,000 square feet store which is bringing employment and choice to the community. “This is our 44th Express store across Ireland, and brings with it over 20 new jobs, over half of which have been newly recruited from the local Sheriff Street area,” said Geoff Byrne, Chief Operating Officer, Tesco Ireland. “As we celebrate 25 years in Ireland, we’re committed to ensuring that our stores play a big part in local communities and we’re looking forward to serving the community for many years to come.”

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10|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Industry News SuperValu launch new Real Rewards Programme FOLLOWING extensive customer research, SuperValu have launched their updated Real Rewards programme and the arrival of a much-improved app, available to download for iPhone & Android users. The amazing new benefits from the Real Rewards programme, include weekly money-off app vouchers and coupons, as well as monthly ‘Scan to Win’ prize draws.

This further update from SuperValu in their Real Rewards programme follows a significant period of investment in the app, which has grown its total membership base to over three quarters of loyal SuperValu shoppers. Customers who scan their app or card in-store or online can enter a monthly prize draw to win national and local prizes, including a year’s free shopping with SuperValu. For more information, visit supervalu.ie/rewards.

XL sponsors Marty Party XL Retail Group are sponsoring the hugely popular Marty Party, a brand-new live stage show starring RTE sports commentator, Marty Morrissey. The Marty Party will take place initially in Wexford and Drogheda in June and will be a mixture of gameshow classics, live music, dance and special guest appearances from Marty’s huge array of contacts, including Eurovision winners, Paul Harrington and Charlie McGettigan. “Marty is a fascinating character with a personality and likeability that has endeared him to the whole nation over the course of his career on Irish television and radio,” noted Paul Bealin, XL Sales Director. “When the opportunity presented itself to support these events, we were delighted to get involved.”

A summer of fun from Starcamp with Gala SUMMER is in the air and Starcamp with Gala Retail will be hosting activity camps for kids in locations across Ireland throughout July and August. This year sees leading Irish convenience retailer, Gala Retail, continue their sponsorship of Starcamp for a second year, supporting Starcamp in its delivery of activity camps all across the country and providing over €10,000 worth of prizes for participating children and their schools. “Both Gala Retail and Starcamp are household names in communities across Ireland and there is a great synergy in this partnership.

We are thrilled to sponsor Starcamp and support its delivery of fun and inclusive activity camps for children across the country this summer,” noted Gary Desmond, Chief Executive of Gala Retail, pictured with Jennifer York Howard, Starcamp Team Leader, and Olivia I Hekaire and Bobbi Osborne, both aged nine.

Fyffes Fit Squad returning to Irish schools FYFFES are set to resume their children’s fitness programme of live school visits in September, following a two-year break during Covid. The upcoming schedule will see some 7,500 pupils from schools throughout Ireland, North and South, participate in an interactive Fit Squad session between September and March next, delivered by Irish health and fitness expert, Tom Dalton. “We have had such a positive response to the programme,” said Fyffes Head of Marketing, Emma Hunt-Duffy. “Much of the appeal is that the exercises don’t require any equipment and don’t need much space.

They focus on using your own body weight to build strength in a fun way that can be enjoyed by children, teachers and parents alike.” Emma is pictured (second from the right) with Irish Olympic athletes David Gillick and Phil Healy with Fyffes Marketing Executive, Áine McElroy (left).

Millions for Mooncoin CELEBRATIONS were underway in the Marble County after it was announced that Blanchfield’s Centra store on the Main Street in Mooncoin sold the winning Lotto jackpot ticket worth a staggering €8,508,720 for the draw on May 7. The busy Kilkenny store is no stranger to big wins as this is the second Lotto jackpot ticket which the store has sold in just over two years. In December 2019, the Mooncoin store sold a ticket worth over €6.8m. “After having a big Lotto jackpot win just over two years ago in our store, I never thought we’d have another but especially not so soon after – I am absolutely thrilled,” said store owner Michael Blanchfield. Michael and Alice Blanchfield are pictured celebrating with staff, Sinead Quinn, Aileen O’Brien, Fiona Walsh, Margaret Phelan, Melissa Walsh, Susan Quinn.

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12|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Industry News BWG Foods win Employer of The Year Award BWG Foods have been recognised as Employer of the Year at the Irish Transport & Logistics Awards. The award, which recognises the excellence of the HR team within BWG Foods, assesses organisations against a strict set of criteria, including their people strategy, employee engagement, benefits and rewards, and overall employee satisfaction, for which BWG Foods scored highly across the board.

“At the heart of our success as a business is an expansive team of exceptional people who demonstrate an unrivalled passion for what they do,” noted Peter Donohoe, Chief People Officer, BWG Group. “This culture has evolved by nurturing a positive working environment where colleagues are respected, rewarded and encouraged to reach their full potential. We take great pride in this award as it goes to the very core of our business and we are determined to continue building on our achievements in this regard.”

Get Friday afternoons off at Kellogg’s

Aldi unveil newly renovated Dungloe store ALDI’s Project Fresh store in Dungloe, Co. Donegal, has reopened its doors to customers following an extensive renovation project worth almost €1m, which has seen the store interior completely refurbished. “The Project Fresh revamp of our store is fantastic news for our local customers in Dungloe,” said Conal Sweeney, Dungloe Store Manager.

“The new spacious design makes for a very enjoyable shop and customers can easily find everything they need.”

AS the days get longer, Kellogg Ireland are encouraging colleagues to take that much needed break away from their screens by offering Friday afternoons off work. Launched in 2005, Kellogg’s Summer Hours scheme runs annually from May to September for Kellogg’s 300-plus Dublin-based employees. It offers colleagues the chance to finish work from 12pm on a Friday for those who are office-based or on a weekday of their choice for the business’ field sales teams, provided they have completed a full week’s hours. “At Kellogg’s we have a long history of offering flexible working and Summer Hours is a great way to encourage our people to take time away from their desks,” said Sarah Ferguson, General Manager, Kellogg Ireland.

Rory’s Stories and Londis partner to offer Little Piece of Heaven CONOR Hayes, Sales Director at Londis, and Rory O’Connor of Rory’s Stories, comedian and mental health advocate, are pictured at the launch of Londis’ sponsorship of Hell & Back. Londis will sponsor Ireland’s toughest physical and mental endurance challenge course for the fifth year, which returns this summer after a two-year break. As the official sponsors, Londis are inviting participants to refuel at the ‘Little Piece of Heaven’ tent available at all Hell & Back events. With the addition of five new Hell & Back Junior events, which have been introduced this summer, the challenge is now open to everyone including adults, teens and tots. Registration for all Hell & Back events is now open on www.hellandback.ie.

Tesco expand Stronger Starts programme TESCO Ireland are set to provide one million free, healthy, and nutritious meals to primary school children most in need and their families by May 2023 in an expansion of their Stronger Starts programme. The Stronger Starts programme, in partnership with The Good Grub Initiative, will grow over the next year. Tesco are delighted to be supported by long-standing local suppliers, Country Crest, Keelings and Dole, as they come on board to support children in need. “With Stronger Starts, our commitment is to provide fresh ingredients for one million meals to primary school children most in need and their families by the middle of next year. I’m delighted that the pilot has been so well received and that we can now accelerate our ambition and make a bigger difference in our communities,” noted Natasha Adams, Tesco Ireland, CEO, pictured (left) with Geraldine Burke, principal; at St. Joseph’s National School in Fermoy, Co. Cork.

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14|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Retail News Interview

Facing the challenges ahead Ian Allen, Managing Director, SuperValu and Centra, discusses the big issues facing the grocery market, from the pandemic trends that have stuck with us to the worrying rate of inflation, the difficulty in attracting and retaining staff and the reasons why the sustainability agenda is taking centre stage.

Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie|15

Retail News Interview “We are aware of the current plans around initiatives such as the introduction of the living wage, statutory sick pay, and pension auto-enrolment.

We are concerned that the cumulative effect of all of these additional costs is not fully appreciated in terms of the costs and employment implications for retailers.”

AS Managing Director of both SuperValu and Centra, Ian Allen is at the coalface of Ireland’s dynamic grocery and FMCG market, with a wide knowledge of both the supermarket and convenience channels.

In a wide-ranging interview, he reflects on the biggest challenges ahead, including the continued effects of the pandemic on the grocery market, the factors putting pressure on the supply chain, and the impact of inflation on the market.

What is the current state of play within the Irish grocery market? How has the market developed over the course of the last 12-18 months?

The pandemic has turned staying healthy from a lifestyle choice into a way of life, with clean eating and living being really important in the future; similarly, plantbased eating and trends such as veganism have fuelled people’s appetite for better diets. Our brands have been ahead of the curve when it comes to health, launching new product ranges and in-store solutions for healthy eating before these trends became mainstream. They will continue to adapt and meet every eating occasion, whether that be in-store, at home, or online.

In the future, the traditional grocery store or supermarket will be re-imagined as a destination, a place of food inspiration and advice, a social hub – the place where people will go not just to buy products but also for great food and dining experiences. Technology will enhance the relationship with the consumer and make shopping, either

in-store or online, an easier and more personalised experience. Prior to the pandemic, our stores were already developing into these multi-purpose destinations where people go for food demonstrations, nutritional advice and personal service from butchers, bakers and greengrocers.

Post-Covid, we have exciting plans to transform and grow SuperValu, both as a brand and as a shopping destination.

Our ambition is to transform the food experience for shoppers; meals prepared in-store by chefs; reimagined butcher, fish and deli counters to meet every taste and preference; a destination place to shop that delivers a modern and contemporary experience, redefining what shoppers expect from a supermarket in a unique and differentiated way.

Both SuperValu and Centra recently revealed their results for 2021, with new store openings reported and more planned for 2022. Why have your groups continued to perform so well?

Our financial performance was impacted by the pandemic, which placed exceptional demands on essential retail and online service delivery. This means that, overall, the retail side of the business delivered strong growth, especially in SuperValu and via digital channels. With lockdown, online grocery shopping grew week-onweek, increasing by almost 300% in the course of the year. At the same time, the closure of offices, travel restrictions and a radical reduction of footfall in city centres significantly reduced convenience, foodto-go and special event shopping.

Our results reflect the extent to which we have been able to leverage the strength of our brands to support our partners, customers, and communities during the health crisis, while accelerating investment in digital platforms and operations.

Notwithstanding the many challenges presented throughout the pandemic, our strong performance is a credit to our people, especially our retail partners and colleagues, who went above and beyond during the pandemic to keep people safe and keep food on shelves. Our teams worked tirelessly to ensure that we protected the most vulnerable and that our customers had access to their favourite ranges throughout the crisis.

What trends that emerged during the Covid-19 pandemic have stuck with us and continue to shape the market we have today?

As we emerge from this pandemic, we will see a conscious consumer: one

interested in sustainable living, less food waste, sustainable packaging, better food choices, and buying local. Covid-19 has also accelerated the rise in omni-channel.

Online demand grew significantly at the height of the pandemic, a trend that is expected to continue into the future as consumers see the benefit in the convenience and control it gives them.

Aggregators and delivered food have also seen significant growth, a trend expected to continue into the future. Similarly, ‘frictionless’ retail has also increased – i.e. contactless, paying by phone, shopping through superscan, or click and collect – where shoppers are looking to self-serve and have a seamless experience.

At the same time, brands recognise that in isolation, the digitisation of the retail experience limits opportunities for differentiation and offers less than today’s consumers expect. Trends such as cooking from scratch and in-home eating experiences of high-quality, preprepared food, have been amplified by the pandemic but are also likely to stay, in addition to an increasingly sophisticated take-away market.

Demand for convenience grew significantly at the height of the pandemic, a trend that is expected to continue as consumers see the benefit in the convenience and control it gives them, especially as customers return to the office.

The pandemic, the continued effects of Brexit and the war in Ukraine have all had an impact on the supply chain. What has been the experience of SuperValu and Centra, and the wider Musgrave Group, of this?

We are in constant contact with our suppliers, and we have a robust and resilient domestic and international supply chain. We are working with suppliers to understand and mitigate the impacts of Brexit and the war in Ukraine and our focus remains to ensure our customers continue to have access to their favourite ranges. We are confident that with 75% of our goods being sourced in Ireland, we can continue to deliver the best value and quality Irish products for our customers during this uncertain time.

What are Musgrave doing to mitigate those effects?

Musgrave have a robust supply chain that ensures our shelves are replenished every day. We are confident that given our broad range of Irish and international products, close partnerships with suppliers and strong contingencies in place, that we will be able to offer

16|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Retail News Interview customers continued access to their favourite ranges.

The word ‘inflation’ has been in the news a lot recently. What are the effects of rising costs for consumers and businesses (in terms of putting the squeeze on retail margins and consumers possibly trading down, buying on promotion, buying in bulk etc.)?

We are keenly aware of both the scale and impact of price inflation right the way through the supply chain, from producers to customers. We know that these issues are a cause of considerable concern. This inflation is primarily driven by commodity price inflation, reduced availability of certain products and political uncertainty.

We are working hard with our suppliers to ensure we continue to deliver the best value and quality Irish products for our customers. We will also continue to build out our own brand offering through ranges including Inspired By Centra, Freshly Prepared ready meals, Frank and Honest, Moo’d and so on.

Cost pressures from rising transport costs, higher energy and commodity prices may start to filter through to consumer prices. We are aware of the pressures our customers and communities face at this time and will seek to ensure that we deliver best value, choice and quality.

What other factors are impacting on margins (insurance, rates, labour costs etc) and what can be done to drive down these costs?

The cost of doing business continues to rise for retailers across the country. We are aware of the current plans around initiatives such as the introduction of the living wage, statutory sick pay, and pension auto-enrolment. We are concerned that the cumulative effect of all of these additional costs is not fully appreciated in terms of the costs and employment implications for retailers.

We are worried that these increased costs, coupled with inflation, high energy costs and the rise in the cost of fuel, will cause serious financial difficulties both for our own stores and our independent retail partners. Everything needs to be done to ensure retailers are supported to keep their business open and to continue employing members of their community We are hearing stories of retailers struggling to recruit new staff: what can be done to alleviate this?

Like many organisations, we are dealing with the labour shortages which have come to light post-pandemic. We are challenged in a number of areas across

Pictured are Ciaran Mangan, Centra Council Chair, with Ian Allen, MD, Centra, and Cormac Dawson, Centra Sales Director.

drivers and store staff. We have been attempting to recruit abroad but are still in need of more staff.

As independent retailers, our store owners have strong relationships with their local community and have a history of employing locally, whether that is students at the weekend or flexible

working hours for those with families.

We have roles that suit people’s lifestyles, including full-time and parttime roles. We offer extensive training and developing programmes from deli, food safety, customer service and store management programmes that have a wide appeal.

Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie|17

Retail News Interview Sustainability is a key concern for consumers: what are SuperValu and Centra doing to promote the circular economy?

Guided by the UN Sustainable Development Goals, our sustainability strategy tackles these key areas, from carbon reduction to the sourcing of produce, from plastic packaging to supporting local communities. With 11 leading food and beverage brands and a network of more than 1,800 retail partners, we have a significant opportunity to drive our sustainability agenda and inspire others to make changes in a collective effort to benefit people, protect the planet and create prosperity.

One of our goals is to reduce our carbon emissions to reach net zero carbon by 2040. As part of our sustainability journey, we’ve focused our efforts across sourcing, environmental impact and community.

We are committed to growing and developing sustainable communities.

We have a range of ESG goals and initiatives in place to help us achieve them. For example, 91% of our own brand packaging is now recyclable, reusable or compostable. We are well on the way to achieving our target that 100% of our own brand packaging will be recyclable, reusable or compostable by 2025.

Centra and our retail partners will continue to make sustainable changes whether it’s in sourcing, packaging, energy reduction or supply chain solutions. Centra are making changes in stores; in our packaging, where we were the first convenience retailer in Ireland to launch a 100% compostable and reusable

“As we emerge from this pandemic, we will see a conscious consumer: one interested in packaging, sustainable living, less food waste, better food choices, and buying local. In fact, sustainability is less of a trend and more of a core value for many of our younger shoppers.”

bag. We have removed 300,000 units of unrecyclable trays from our in-store wrapped bakery and butchery ranges.

We’ve also committed that by 2025, all SuperValu stores will run on green electricity, we are well on the way to achieving this, with 50% of our stores are now running on green electricity generated from renewable resources.

What are your plans for the year ahead for SuperValu and Centra?

Centra recently announced a €25m investment in an ambitious expansion programme. The expansion will see 18 new Centra stores open in 2022, creating over 430 new jobs in local communities around the country. The expansion programme is in addition to the 11 new Centra stores opened in 2021 and the €17m deployed last year to revamp and refresh 64 existing stores. Centra support over 38,000 jobs and directly employ 11,716 people across the 483 stores operating in Ireland.

Throughout the pandemic, shoppers sought convenient meal solutions and tasty treats, driving demand for Centra’s cook at home prepared ranges. Moo’d Ice Cream, Centra’s high-quality Irish ice cream concept, recorded sales of €10m last year, up over 52% on 2020.

The Inspired By Centra range saw strong growth, with a 40% increase in sales, while the Freshly Prepared range of meals also saw a 40% jump in sales, demonstrating growing consumer demand for convenient, own-brand products and meals.

During 2022, SuperValu will invest more than €35m in approximately 50 stores, in addition to the €23m deployed last year to revamp and refresh 42 outlets across our retail estate. 2022 will also see SuperValu continue to grow our nationwide presence, creating at least 150 jobs and adding to our existing 223 stores.

SuperValu’s new food experiencebased store allows customers to enjoy easier and simpler grocery shopping, combined with more sustainable choices.

From the point of entry, customers experience the taste of local range, to plant-based alternatives, as well as a home eco-range. The state-of-the-art store provides customers with new innovative delicatessen, bakery, and fresh food offerings alongside the Happy Pear and Donnybrook Fair ranges.

What do you expect to happen in the Irish market over the course of the year?

We are now seeing a return to the prepandemic levels of grocery shopping.

“Our strong regional presence is reflected in our ambition to offer a one-stop retail experience for our customers at the heart of communities across Ireland.”

However, many of the trends brought about during the pandemic, such as healthy eating, convenience offerings and the rise of digital, are here to stay and our investment in enhancing our customer offering in these areas positions us well for the future.

As I have mentioned, price inflation is having an impact, and as a result, we have seen an increase in value seeking among our customers. We are responding to this, and doing everything we can to offer the excellent quality and value products that our customers expect at SuperValu and Centra. As we look to the year ahead, together with our valued retail partners, we plan to further cement our leadership position by continuing to support local producers, investing in innovation, enhancing our reputation for quality and inspiring food and delivering the best customer experience in the market.

Our strong regional presence is reflected in our ambition to offer a one-stop retail experience for our customers at the heart of communities across Ireland. As we emerge from this pandemic, we will see a conscious consumer: one interested in packaging, sustainable living, less food waste, better food choices, and buying local. In fact, sustainability is less of a trend and more of a core value for many of our younger shoppers.

Covid-19 has also accelerated the rise in omni-channel. Online demand grew significantly at the height of the pandemic, a trend that is expected to continue as consumers see the benefit in the convenience and control it gives them.

Operators and delivered food have also seen significant growth, a trend expected to continue. Hybrid living will change how, where and when people access food; for example, we anticipate an increased consumption of lunch and snacking at home, a scaling back of workplace canteens and cities becoming more entertainment and experienced based, than centres of employment.

18|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Vaping

Demand soars for Elf Bar Elf Bar is a leading disposable vaping brand which is taking the market by storm.

The ease of use of these devices, coupled with the powerful, mouth-watering flavours, have quickly established Elf Bar as a perfect option for smokers looking to switch to vaping, and vapers looking for a secondary device. They are available now in Centra, SuperValu, BWG & Applegreen stores throughout Ireland.

“The 10 pack CDU is proving a very popular option in the convenience sector, providing a straightforward solution for the retailer,” added Shane Horrigan, Managing Director, Tyco Distribution.

Leading distributors of vaping products Elf Bar offers adult consumers a convenient way to enjoy their favourite flavour of e-liquid without having to deal with any messy refills or coils that need replacing. It’s ideal for those on the go and the perfect solution for retailers.

Elf Bar is distributed exclusively in Ireland by Tyco Distribution and Creative Distribution, the teams that brought the Hale Vaping brand to retail. One of Ireland’s leading distributors of vaping products, they cover grocery, convenience and the vape specialist sectors.

Ordering Elf Bar products couldn’t be simpler; call Tyco Distribution (01) 554 0172 or Creative Distribution on (01) 450 4642.

SOARING demand for e-cigarettes and e-liquids is set to power the global vaping market ahead to €40 billion ($43 billion) in the next few years. This represents growth of around 20.8% up to 2023. Elf Bar is one of the leading brands in the disposable vaping category.

Elf Bar offers a strong opportunity to drive footfall, with all of the associated benefits of incremental sales across other categories.

Elf Bar is a leading disposable vape, which is sweeping across the retail sector; fully TPD compliant with 20mg Nicotine and 2ml tank, it is ready to go with no buttons to press. Exclusively distributed in the Republic of Ireland by Tyco Distribution and Creative Distribution, Elf Bar offers the opportunity for increasing revenue across the vaping category.

Explosion in popularity The Elf Bar range of disposable eCigarettes has seen an explosion in popularity in the last number of months. They are pre-filled devices with up to 600 puffs, and are available in a range of 12 exciting flavours. They come with a precharged battery so consumers can get started straight away. These premium devices contain 20mg (2%) Nicotine Salt which delivers a smooth, yet satisfying hit.

Huge interest in retail sector “We are seeing a big interest in the product from the retail sector,” notes Charlie McKenna, Sales Director, Creative Distribution. “Elf Bar is a very exciting product and demand is very strong.”

The Elf Bar range of disposable eCigarettes come in a range of 12 exciting flavours.

20|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Bord Bia Bloom 2022

Festival ‘Blooms’ in the Phoenix Park More than 110,000 visitors returned to Bord Bia Bloom, Ireland’s largest gardening, food and family festival, over the June Bank Holiday weekend. “many of whom gained a new appreciation for gardening and locally produced food over the past three years”.

“This was another theme of the weekend – the multitude of benefits that gardening, horticulture, and outdoor spaces can bring to our lives, plus the importance of supporting local food and drink producers,” Tara highlighted. “We’re already looking forward to Bord Bia Bloom 2023 and the opportunity to once again showcase the best of Irish horticulture, food and drink to the Irish public.”

In keeping with the spirit of sustainability and waste reduction at Bord Bia Bloom, many elements of the show gardens will be relocated in the coming weeks and months. The plants and shrubs from Aldi’s Sustainable Forest Garden will go to Barnardos locations around Dublin, for example, while the Hit Pause, The Caragh Nurseries Garden, will be reinterpreted at Barretstown children’s charity, in County Kildare, to include the planting, the water feature and the sculpture.

On the Friday morning, June 3, the Bord Bia Food Bord Bia Bloom Patron, President Michael D Higgins officially opened Village was buzzing the five-day festival.

110,000 visitors, including 15,000 children, returned to Bord Bia Bloom in the Phoenix Park over the June Bank Holiday weekend.

Following a three-year break, visitors and exhibitors alike celebrated the return of Ireland’s largest gardening, food and family festival.

“The phrase I’ve heard repeated most over the past five days at Bord Bia Bloom has been ‘It’s great to be back’,” revealed Tara McCarthy, Bord Bia’s Chief Executive.

“This has been reflected in the enthusiasm and positivity from visitors, exhibitors, show garden designers, volunteers and staff throughout the weekend. Not even the reliably unreliable Irish weather could dampen spirits in the Phoenix Park.”

Equally, the weekend welcomed new fans of the festival, the Bord Bia CEO noted,

as more than 250 retail and foodservice buyers, with a combined buying power of €20 billion, attended a trade breakfast.

For the 80+ food and drink companies exhibiting at this year’s festival, the event provided them with a much-anticipated opportunity to meet with decision-makers in Ireland’s leading retail and foodservice companies for the first time in three years.

Among the buyers in attendance were some of Ireland’s largest retailers, including Musgrave, Dunnes Stores, Tesco, Lidl, Aldi and M&S, alongside specialist retailers such as Donnybrook Fair and Fallon and Byrne. Prominent buyers in the Irish foodservice sector include Dalata Hotel Group, the biggest hotel chain in Ireland, Freshly Chopped food chain, forecourt operators Circle K and Applegreen and business feeders Aramark, Compass and Sodexo. National foodservice distributors, Sysco, Musgrave Wholesale Partners and BWG Foodservice were also in attendance.

“Over the last two years face-to-face business networking opportunities have been few and far between, and we are thrilled to be able to bring businesses and potential buyers together again today, in the lovely setting of the Phoenix Park,” noted Tara McCarthy. “The Food Village at Bord Bia Bloom plays host to some of the best of Irish food and drink companies and this event provides them with a valuable opportunity to present their business and products to key retail and foodservice stakeholders. We are encouraged by the large number and calibre of buyers attending today, which demonstrates their commitment to sourcing the best of Irish.”

Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie|21

Bord Bia Bloom 2022 Irish Food. The range is comprised of four from water kefir, a live culture fermented tasty variants, two high protein low sugar beverage containing gut-friendly bacteria cookies, and two high protein biscuits, and yeast; and Good4U’s new Caesar with a percentage of profits going back Crumble Salad Topper made with roasted into the GAA community to fund player fava beans coated in winged kelp from development. the Mayo coast and featuring a vitamin-D David Carey, Marketing Director of East enhanced mushroom powder from Coast Bakehouse, welcomed visitors “to Monaghan. taste our delicious cookies and to get a When RETAIL NEWS visited The Bord Bia photo with the Liam MacCarthy and Sam Food Village on the first day, the food and Maguire Cups. We thank the GAA and GPA drink brand owners were already reporting for their continued support, and we’re a brisk start to the weekend. We can echo delighted to be exhibiting with Love Irish Tara McCarthy’s words, as pretty much Food.” every one of the people we spoke to on the stands were delighted to be back meeting potential customers face-toThe Clare Jam Company from Doolin, using face, from long100% natural ingredients sourced from the established family best suppliers. brands like the Clare Jam Company to The Food Village relative newcomers For many years, Bord Bia Bloom has such as The Jungle offered food and drink companies a Food Company, platform to launch new products direct to the brainchild of consumers and after a two-year hiatus, Michael Onalimi, there were plenty to choose from. The Food whose Flavour Safari Village also provided an opportunity for Sauces combine buyers to identify some of the key trends African spices and innovations in the food and drink with fresh Irish sector. ingredients, creating Stand-out trends this year include a truly unique result. the drive towards functional foods which Cuisine de France, one of the high profile Irish brands at the Love Irish Cuisine de France offer immunity-boosting properties, such Food ‘Meet the Makers’ marquee. had a busy festival, as Feighery’s Farm new Beet Bullet, a Meet the Makers while the Wild About stall was a riot of concentrated ‘beetroot shot’ that provides At their Meet the Makers marquee, Love colour. consumers with a nitric oxide boost Irish Food hosted some of Ireland’s bestThere was a huge queue at the Glenisk following exercise; Dairy Concept Irl known food brands, with household names stand and it was truly heartening to see CheeseOs, puffed cheese bites that are including Glenisk, Cuisine de France, the team back in business, following the high in protein, low carb, high in calcium; Britvic Ireland’s Ballygowan, Club and devastating fire at their plant in Offaly King of Kefir’s range of beverages made MiWadi and other mid-sized brands such as last September. The goodwill towards the Cork’s Spice O’Life and Folláin, as well as business was palpable. many new brands that are providing vital The East Coast employment and helping the economy and Bakehouse stand also environment in every corner of Ireland. proved a big draw, as The 14 food producers at Meet the their new Irish protein Makers are all drivers of sustainable brand, In the Zone, offered business models, from Glenisk and Britvic’s visitors a once-in-alocal production in substitution of imports, lifetime chance to get to O’Donnell’s crisps made with Irish grown their photo taken with potatoes and Killowen measuring their both the Sam Maguire products’ travel journeys in metres not and Liam MacCarthy miles. While 90% of biscuits in Ireland are cups, as part of Love Irish imported, East Coast Bakehouse produce Food’s ‘Meet the Makers’ a local product. Cork’s Spice O’Life are marquee. investing in being carbon neutral, Plant-It In the Zone is an are planting trees as part of their mission exciting new Irish brand and the rapeseed oil grown by Wicklow’s launched at the start Sussed puts nutrients back in the soil and of 2022 by East Coast encourages diverse wildlife.

Bakehouse, created in David Carey, Marketing Manager, East Coast Bakehouse, and “Irish food businesses are driving partnership with the Kieran Rumley, Executive Director, Love Irish Food, pictured with GAA and GPA as The sustainability at a time when it is ever more the Sam Maguire and Liam MacCarthy cups, to celebrate the critical,” noted Kieran Rumley, Executive Official Players Choice, launch of new Irish protein brand, In the Zone.

Director, Love Irish Food. “The Love Irish and supported by Love

22|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Bord Bia Bloom 2022

Love Irish Food’s ‘Meet the Makers’ marquee hosted some of Ireland’s best-known food brands.

Michael Onalimi, The Jungle Food Company, whose Flavour Safari Sauces combine African spices with fresh Irish ingredients.

Food member companies at Bloom each have a sustainability story to tell, through investing in both the environment and community. At a time when Irish food business are facing a host of challenges, including rising input costs and inflationary pressures, these businesses showcase not alone the strength and resilience in the Irish food sector but also the commitment to Ireland’s environment and community development.”

Organics Corner In response to the growing market for organic produce in Ireland, Bord Bia hosted a new Organics Corner in the Food Village, showcasing a selection of the EU Certified organic foods available in the domestic market.

Exhibitors included Burren Smokehouse, Harvest Moon Foods, King of Kefir, Kilbeggan Organic Foods, Niks Tea, Oriel Liquid Magnesium, the Merry Hill, Wexford Home Preserves and Wild Irish Seaweed.

The Bloom Inn showcased the best of the Irish craft drinks industry.

It was heartening to see Glenisk back exhibiting at the festival, with their delicious yogurts proving a huge draw.

It hosted established businesses such as Rye River Brewing Company, who launched their newly branded 500ml bottled range featuring two new styles – Backwaters American Wheat and Retro IPA, alongside new companies such as Beekon Batches, who introduced a self-made category of honey refreshers with 5% abv. The Bloom Inn also highlighted the trend towards low and no-alcohol products with businesses such as Kinnegar Brewing, who unveiled their 1% ABV low-alcohol option on draught for the first time.

The Wild About stand was a riot of colour.

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Bord Bia Bloom 2022

Catherine Fulvio, Ballyknocken House & Cookery School, pictured on the Bloom Quality Kitchen Stage.

Teagasc: ‘Healthy People, Healthy Planet’ The Teagasc stand provided an opportunity for visitors who are interested in the relationship between horticulture, plants, food and the environment to engage with Teagasc staff.

The Teagasc horticulture exhibit ‘Healthy People, Healthy Planet’ set out to inspire people and create awareness about Irish fruits and vegetables and their positive impact on personal health, in terms of consumption, and the positive climate impact in choosing fresh produce, plants and trees. Fruit and vegetables have the smallest area of land use and the lowest greenhouse gas emissions per kilogram of food product.

“We encourage and support growers and farmers to be sustainable from an economic, social and environmental perspective,” noted Director of Teagasc, Professor Frank O Mara. “The theme of the Teagasc stand here at Bloom, ‘Healthy People, Healthy Planet’ reflects the importance of the food we eat, not just to our own wellbeing, but to the natural environment we live in. Visitors can see some of our research outputs, along with our advisory services and education course offerings.”

Dates for 2023 Plans and preparations are already underway for Bord Bia Bloom 2023. Bord Bia have confirmed that the festival will

take place from Thursday, June 1, to Monday June 5.

Bord Bia Bloom 2022 in numbers: AS the festival drew to a close, Bord Bia released some of the event facts and figures from the five days: • • • • • • • • • •

•

Over 110,000 visitors, including 15,000 children, attended the festival.

This year’s show featured 19 show gardens, nine postcard gardens and 17 nursery displays, over 80 food and drink producers and 130 retailers.

There were over 1,200 potato plants in the Eat Well Garden.

Seven new products launched in the Bord Bia Food Village.

Over 10,000 Irish plants were sold in the Quality Mark Plant Village.

Almost 17,000 people availed of Bord Bia’s free Shuttle Bus to and from Bord Bia Bloom.

Over 250 retail and foodservice buyers with a combined buying power of €20 billion met with 80 plus Irish food and drink companies at the Bord Bia trade breakfast.

23 children took part in the first ‘Learn to Cook with Neven’ demonstration at the Quality Kitchen Stage.

A total of 3,800 people worked onsite over the five days, including 100 Bord Bia staff volunteers.

The prestigious judging panel comprised of 15 Irish and international horticultural experts, who awarded more than 78 awards to show garden designers, amateur postcard garden designers; nurseries and floral artists.

Three new garden designers struck gold for the first time at Bord Bia Bloom.

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GS1 Ireland

Cracking the code Maria Svejdar, Head of Marketing, Communications and CX, GS1 Ireland, examines the evolution of the barcode and heralds the future of digital product passports.

The GTIN (or barcode number) can be connected to a wide range of online digital product information, opening up a world of connection and engagement opportunities between brand owners and their customers

WHEN launching a new product, the barcode is probably not the first thing a producer or brand owner thinks of. Much of the early stages of product development focus on the product’s key features, the recipe, how it will look, taste or be packaged.

However, the understated design of the humble barcode belies the significant logistical importance of the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) encoded in that barcode symbol.

The GTIN operates as a type of unique licence plate for a product, enabling it to pass through the supply chain, through the checkout of a store or online marketplace, and into the end-consumer’s hands.

The GTIN (or barcode number), can also be connected to a wide range of online digital product information, opening up

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GS1 Ireland a world of connection and engagement opportunities between brand owners and their customers.

The rise of the ‘intelligent’ barcode Barcodes continue to evolve today, from the standard EAN / UPC codes we have been familiar with in the retail supply chain for the last 40 years, to the new, more “intelligent” symbols such as Data Matrix and QR codes that are now being printed on products around the world. Woolworths Australia are an early adopter of GS1 Data Matrix barcodes across their meat, fruit and fresh foods ranges, for example. These new barcodes enable the sharing of much more detailed product information, both within the barcode or in online, decentralised repositories.

Barcodes continue to evolve today, from the standard EAN codes we have been familiar with in the retail supply chain for the last 40 years, to the new, more “intelligent” symbols such as Data Matrix.

“The new barcodes and services will play a key role in the coming years as industry begins preparations for new regulations such as the EU Digital Product Passport.”

Globally, GS1 is working with industry to establish a range of new services and data registries, such as Verified by GS1, which will make key product information available for checking and validation.

Global marketplaces such as Amazon are already using the service to check and validate the barcode information for products listed on their platform.

The GS1 Digital Link service acts as a form of “digital signposting”, helping to connect a product’s barcode, when scanned, to other sources of data and information. This could be sustainability credentials, recipes, ingredients, allergen or traceability information, to mention just a couple of examples.

Traditional barcodes include simply the product ID number or GTIN. The new Data Matrix barcodes, for example, can also include traceability information, such as batch or lot number or expiry dates, greatly helping retailers to manage stock control and product rotation. The new codes and services will play a key role in the coming years as industry begins preparations for new regulations such as the EU Digital Product Passport.

The future EU Digital Product Passport THE Sustainable Product Regulation proposal was adopted on March 20, 2022, by the European Commission and is released under the framework of the EU Green Deal. With the exception of food, feed, and medicinal products, it applies to physical goods, including components and intermediates products, that are placed on the EU market or put into service. Additionally, the regulation prohibits the destruction of unsold consumer products, and sets mandatory green public procurement criteria. The overall aim of the proposal is to reduce the life cycle environmental impact of products through efficient digital solutions.

The regulation states that the product passport means a set of data specific to a product and that is accessible via electronic means through a data carrier.

Under the new regulation, the product passport shall: • ensure that actors along the value chain, including consumers, economic operators, and competent national authorities, can access product information relevant to them; • improve traceability of products along the value chain; • facilitate the verification of product compliance by competent national authorities; • include the necessary data attributes to enable the tracking of all substances of concern throughout the lifecycle of the products covered.

GS1 is working with industry to begin preparations for compliance with this new regulation. For further information please visit www.gs1ie.org.

The GTIN operates as a type of unique licence plate for a product, enabling it to pass through the supply chain, through the checkout of a store or online marketplace, and into the endconsumer’s hands.

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Snack Foods

The snack attack The pandemic saw huge growth in take-home snack purchases, as Irish consumers stocked up on their favourite savoury treats to enjoy at home. New flavours and innovations continue to ensure the category remains top-of-mind.

IRISH people love snacking, a fact which was highlighted by the pandemic, when so many of us treated ourselves to our favourite snack foods while in lockdown.

According to the latest report into the Irish snacks market by Euromonitor International, the trends driving the market include polarisation, increasing demand for health and wellness products and suitability.

Consumer preferences are on one hand shifting towards high-quality products, with this trend accelerated by home seclusion.

Savoury snacks was one of the snack categories that benefited the most from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic,

Euromonitor reveal. The extended period of time spent at home by many consumers during lockdowns created high demand for savoury snacks, which quickly became part of planned grocery purchases, when prepandemic they were most often impulse purchases.

Domestic players continue to lead the savoury snacks market, according to Euromonitor, who expect the savoury snacks category to enjoy value growth over the coming years, with premium snacks singled out for strong growth as Euromonitor expect then to boost value sales over the coming years.

Consumer awareness around the issues of sustainable, eco-friendly packaging is increasingly growing, pushing many manufacturers to act responsibly and use more environmentally-friendly packaging materials. For instance, Pringles started trialling their new paper tubes in 2020 and, if successful, this pack type will be expanded across Europe in the upcoming years, including in Ireland.

Tayto Ireland’s favourite crisps and snacks brand (Source: Nielsen Scantrack C&S Value MS MAT April 2022), Tayto kicked off the year

Image by rawpixel.com.

Tayto, Ireland’s number one crisps and snacks brand.

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KTOCC MH NOW ON IREL9F< K NO.) ;JAKHK KNACKK :J9F<" *Source: Nielsen Value sales April 2022

28|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Snack Foods on a strong footing with the addition of two new SKUs to the Tayto ‘Lighter Choices’ portfolio. Tayto Lentil Chips are the ideal offering for consumers who are looking for something with 100% flavour but with 40% less fat (per 100g of Tayto Cheese & Onion flavour potato crisps). Since launch, Tayto Lentil Chips have achieved an NSV of over €500k and this is only set to grow as advertising support continues throughout 2022. They are available in two mainstream flavours: Cheese & Onion and Sour Cream & Onion. The lentil chips launch saw through-the-line support, with TV, VOD, radio, OOH, PR, and social media and eye catching in-store displays.

Tayto Cheesatees, which launched in spring last year, tap into the growing cheese flavour market segment – figures from Nielsen Scantrack (C&S Volume MS MAT April 2022) put the cheese flavour at 4.6%. Consumers will not miss the continued advertising support for this brand, which has just come off air but will feature again in the coming summer months across VOD and social media.

Consumers are prompted to ‘Feed their Cheesiosity’ and retailers should make sure they are stocked up this summer to gain the most of Tayto Cheesatees’ continued advertising support.

Mr. Tayto has got the nation talking with his most recent mischievous antics. After disappearing off key packs, social media and with no public appearances, Tayto HQ put a call out for information on his whereabouts. Much commotion erupted with the public, Irish businesses and well-known influencers speculating on his whereabouts.

It has recently emerged that he is living his best life and ticking off his bucket list with travels across the world. This campaign will live primarily across digital and social but will also cover DOOH, PR and media partnerships, with a large presence in store.

This campaign runs into the summer months

and will cumulate in a new limited-edition flavour that is sure to go viral! To make the most of this brand campaign, ensure to stock up on Tayto, the number one crisps & snacks brand in the market.

brand hero, Christy the Crinkler, to our screens. This much-loved character and his unique skills to perfectly crinkle each crisp, featured across TV, cinema, VOD and social, delivering a reach estimate of over three million for the campaign. This fun and memorable creative, featuring across various media platforms, illustrates the ongoing investment in the brand.

With an action-packed year so far for the Hunky Dorys brand and plenty more to come for H2, make sure you are stocked up on these crinkle cut flavoured maniacs as they continue to disrupt the crisps category.

Hunky Dorys Hunky Dorys, Ireland’s number one crinkle cut crisp brand, continues to grow ahead of the crisps market, resulting in a 21.7% market share for the brand (Source: Nielsen Scantrack Crisps market MAT April 2022).

The brand has had a strong start to 2022, with key campaigns since February.

Continuing to tap into the brand’s O’Donnells association with rugby, Hunky Dorys kicked O’Donnells Hand Cooked Crisps are the off the year tying into the Six Nations leading hand cooked crisp brand in Ireland snacking occasion with a ‘Win a trip to and currently hold 5.1% value market share Six of Europe’s Nations’ campaign. This (Source: Nielsen MAT Value Sales March campaign was executed across social, digital, PR and with a vast presence across the trade.

Hunky Dorys also made waves with the release of two Hunky Dorys Limited Editions; Smoked Applewood Cheese & Jalapeno and Pork Ribs Marinade flavours. The launch was supported by PR partnerships, social and stand-out displays in store to encourage shoppers to trial these new flavours, which tap into the growing meaty and spicy flavour trends.

In addition to these key initiatives, Hunky Dorys has also invested heavily O’Donnells Furrows are available in two delicious options: Mature ATL. Recently, we Cheese & Red Onion and Irish Cider Vinegar and Sea Salt. saw the return of

Hunky Dorys continues to grow ahead of the crisps market.

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Snack Foods

Popchips are available in four delicious flavours: BBQ, Sour Cream and Onion, Salt and Vinegar and Thai Sweet Chilli.

27, 2022, Crisps & Snacks). Over the last decade, Ireland has fallen in love with the premium quality and great tasting flavours of O’Donnells crisps. Today, O’Donnells is

Where’s Mr. Tayto?

MR. Tayto, the famous crisp connoisseur recently went AWOL and the good people at Tayto were losing their minds.

Don’t worry though, they left no crisp packet unopened until they found him. In response to this mystery, Tayto launched a limited edition run of their famous Cheese & Onion pack with a QR code for people to scan to help track him down. For more information, visit: www.whereismrtayto.ie.

the most awarded crisp brand in the Irish market.

O’Donnells Furrows, which launched last summer, have performed exceptionally well adding more than €1m RSV to the crisp category and are well positioned to drive further growth of the O’Donnells brand in the future (Source: Nielsen MAT Value Sales March 27, 2022, Crisps & Snacks). O’Donnells Furrows deliver crisp perfection in taste and flavour. The deep grooves of the furrows ploughed on the Seskin family farm are the inspiration for this product. The extra deep ridges capture more of the outstanding taste and flavour that O’Donnells consumers know and love.

O’Donnells Furrows are available in two delicious options: Mature Cheese & Red Onion and Irish Cider Vinegar and Sea Salt in 50g single serve and 125g share bags and are gluten free with no artificial colours, flavours or MSG. As a testament to the fantastic quality and ta taste of these new products, O’Donnells Fu Furrows were awarded Gold & Silver aw awards in the Crisps Category at the Irish Qu Quality Food Awards and Free From Food Aw Awards in 2021.

In May, O’Donnells are launching a ne new and improved Sweet Chilli flavour, wh which offers a delicately fused secret blend of aromatic spices with a fiery kick ble of red chillies to create the spicy and sw sweet taste. The new and improved recipe ha has been perfected to their finest Sweet Ch Chilli flavour yet, creating a truly exquisite ha hand cooked crisp.

O’Donnells will be supported th throughout the coming months with the ‘T ‘Taste Above All Else’ campaign. The ccampaign is live on TV, radio, VOD, social, digital and in-store, driving awareness and mental availability for O’Donnells.

Popchips Popchips are a different type of snack for a different type of snacker. Their creators at Tayto Snacks believe better doesn’t have to be boring. They’re popped, not fried, big on flavour and big on crunch. Popchips celebrate a positive, vibrant and colourful approach to life, feeling good on the inside and awesome on the outside. Popchips are a tasty little light and crunchy number.

So, it’s time to revolutionise snack time with new Popchips, perfect for summer snacking! Consumers can grab a bag and live life to the full because life is what you make it.

Popchips contain less than 75 kcal per 17g pack, are gluten free, suitable for vegetarians, with no artificial anything and have half the fat of fried crisps. Popchips are available in 23g, 85g and multipack formats and come in four delicious flavours: BBQ, Sour Cream and Onion, Salt and Vinegar and Thai Sweet Chilli.

Popchips will be supported with social and influencer collaborations as well as instore during the summer months to drive awareness and trial.

Pringles Pringles have added two new flavours to their range: Italian Style Pepperoni Pizza Flavour and New York Style Cheeseburger Flavour. The new additions are part of Pringles’ new ‘Passport Flavours’ collection and are inspired by the delicacies of New York and Italy.

Aiming to bring consumers on a sensorial trip around the world, the delicious limited-edition flavours are available from June.

Pringles fans have come to expect innovation from the brand and their latest launch won’t disappoint. Consumers are

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Snack Foods The two new additions follow on from the launch of Sweet Chilli Flavour and Spicy Chorizo Flavour in January this year. These new flavours joined the hugely popular Sizzl’N range, which builds in spice with every bite.

Pringles also recently launched ‘Stay in the Game’, their first gaming campaign under new brand platform, ‘Mind Popping’. Pringles ‘Stay in the Game’ is now live across Ireland and was created after consumer research discovered gamers love Pringles as it’s easy to eat and has less mess, which meant they could stay in the game longer. Pringles fans are in with a chance to win a branded Xbox Series X by inputting the code found on the Pringles tube into the brand’s website to find out if they’re a winner.

Pringles have added two new flavours to their ‘Passport Flavours’ range: Italian Style Pepperoni Pizza Flavour and New York Style Cheeseburger Flavour.

encouraged to try these ‘Mind Popping’ flavours soon as they’ll only be available for six months.

Keogh’s Keogh’s have recently joined forces with Guinness for the second flavour as part of their limited-edition crisp collaboration. The partnership launched in 2021 and saw two Irish favourites come together to create a range of delicious crisp flavours that can be enjoyed with a Guinness, for a legendary combination.

The second flavour to be released, Guinness and Oyster, is a renowned pairing that is famous around the world; the crisps

The new limited edition flavour from Keogh’s: Guinness and Oyster.

feature deep ridges that are brimming with the smooth flavour combination of oysters and Guinness stout.

The historical link between the Guinness and Keogh’s families goes back several generations. Tom Keogh’s grandfather, Peter Keogh, sold his grain to the St James’s Gate brewery, and this partnership has now come full circle as these two national taste-makers come together to create a crisp like no other.

Their shared passion for deep-rooted tradition, craftsmanship and constant innovation has made this partnership a natural fit to date, and they are both very excited to launch the second instalment in their delicious range of crisp flavours.

Speaking on the collaboration, Declan Hassett, Senior Licensing Manager at Guinness, said, “Following the successful launch of the Guinness and Flame Grilled Steak collaboration, we are delighted once again to be working with the fantastic team at Keogh’s to create the Guinness Oyster crisp. This unique, unexpected combination in a crisp was great fun to create and delivers a really delicious flavour” “We are delighted to be launching our second product with Guinness,” noted Tom Keogh. “The flavoursome Keogh’s Guinness and Oyster crisp is something we are very proud of on the farm. The succulent Oyster and creamy Guinness Stout combine to form this renowned pairing. We are looking forward to hearing what people think of the unique taste!’’

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TWIG Networking Lunch

TWIG lunch focuses on ‘Embracing Change’ The TWIG networking lunch took place recently, with a topclass panel of speakers, on the theme, ‘Embracing Change’.

(IGBF), which helps those most in need in the industry.

THE legendary Today’s Women In Grocery (TWIG) networking lunch was back with a bang recently at the InterContinental Hotel, the first live event since 2019, as a top class panel of speakers addressed the theme of ‘Embracing Change’.

The stellar panel of business leaders from the FMCG sector and beyond shared their inspiring stories with 470 senior figures in Ireland’s grocery, food and drink industry. All monies raised go to the Irish Grocery Benevolent Fund

Female empowerment Now in its sixth year, the luncheon is the most influential gathering of its kind to put female empowerment and networking in the grocery, food and drink sector in firm focus.

The event is renowned for its ‘wow’ factor and this year, once again, did not disappoint.

Entrepreneur, broadcaster & thought leader, Sonya Lennon, compered and skilfully navigated the panel discussion on the topic of ‘Embracing Change’. The panellists included: Aimee Connolly, founder and CEO of Sculpted by Aimee; Oonagh O’Hagan, owner and Managing Director at Meagher’s Pharmacy Group; Fiona Mathews, Managing Director, ROI, Applegreen Ireland; and Evelyn Moynihan, CEO of Kilkenny Group.

This theme explored those moments in the panellists’ careers when they had to navigate change, probed how they chose to lean into that change, and how it shaped them and those around them. The experiences shared were both inspiring and deeply authentic and provided a fitting moment of reflection after the unprecedented change, caused by the pandemic, in all our personal and professional lives.

The TWIG Committee, pictured at the InterContinental Hotel.

Exceptional panel of speakers Aimee Connolly, Founder and CEO of Sculpted by Aimee - who was named Young Businesswoman of the Year at the recent Image PwC Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2022 - spoke about building a brand and trusting the journey. She explained how she deals with change and said that while challenges will always arise in business, “it’s all about how you adapt and react to those” that ultimately has the most impact.

Oonagh O’Hagan, Owner and Managing Director at Meagher’s Pharmacy Group, shared her personal experience of forced change, and how the financial crash in 2008 enabled her to better cope with pivoting the business in a pandemic. “Whether you can or can’t do something – both are true – so it’s about your mindset in determining that,” she told the audience.

Fiona Mathews, Managing Director ROI, Applegreen Ireland, discussed her relationship with change and how she has learned to lean into change, become a magnet for it, and has even grown to love such an environment. She spoke about how her peak happiness occurred when she leaned into change, and she challenged the audience to “back yourself, trust yourself and lean into people that trust you - and most of all, embrace the journey”.

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TWIG Networking Lunch Evelyn Moynihan, CEO, Kilkenny Group, revealed her own experience, honing in on what she called “career speedbumps” and the huge and progressive transition the Kilkenny Group business underwent as a result of Covid-19: “We accelerated e-commerce and delivered three years of growth in six months.” She also provided a unique insight into the value of coaching and how it shaped her career development.

Pictured are Sonya Lennon, Oonagh O’Hagan, Kate Kelly, Evelyn Moynihan, Aimee Connolly and Fiona Matthews at the TWIG networking event, Embracing Change

journeys of each of the panel and practical advice on how to navigate change, staying true to our values and maintaining an opportunity mindset.”

Alan Zambra, Customer Account Supervisor, Diageo; Kate Kelly, E-Commerce Manager, B2C, Diageo; and James Browne, Channel Controller, Diageo, at the TWIG networking lunch.

Frances Higgins, IGBF Chair, Kevin Keating, IGBF President of Appeals, and Michelle Darlington, Marketing Manager, Suntory Beverage & Food Ireland, at the TWIG networking event.

Building new connections Michelle Darlington, Chair of TWIG, described the panel of speakers as “formidable”, and noted how it had been an absolute delight to reconnect and build new connections with peers from across the industry.

“What we heard from the panel is that change is inevitable and how we choose to embrace that change will define us, personally and professionally, and those around us,” she said. “We have been lucky to get a very personal account of the

The team from Suntory Beverage & Food are pictured enjoying the TWIG networking lunch.

Lorraine Butler, CEO (back, right) and the team from CPM, pictured enjoying the TWIG networking lunch at the InterContinental Hotel.

She went on to thank the TWIG committee for all their support in putting the event together, an event which has gone from strength to strength since 2016, and also paid a special tribute to the sponsors for continuing to support the event, and ultimately the IGBF charity: Diageo, Musgrave, Suntory Beverage & Food and CPM.

The TWIG networking event was created by the Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund (IGBF) as a platform for women in grocery to grow their connections and learn/be inspired by leading women. It aims to encourage more female participation events and initiatives, by providing focused professional networking forum that recognises the role women will play in the industry’s future development.

The team from Musgrave Group, pictured at the TWIG networking lunch.

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Waste Management & Recycling: Packaging

Packaging and the environment Getting your packaging right can help to curb costs and to minimise your environmental impact. New innovations in packaging could be key.

GETTING your packaging right is an important step in terms of sustainability, and indeed in the whole area of waste management.

Following the Government’s recent approval of the Circular Economy Bill that aims to reduce waste and influence behaviour to help significantly reduce our greenhouse gas emissions (including incentivising the use of reusable and recyclable alternatives to a range of wasteful single-use disposable packaging), a new report outlines the environmental impact of packaging and the rising costs facing Irish food businesses.

Ifac Packaging Report 2022 Ifac, Ireland’s farming, food and agribusiness specialist professional services firm, have launched their Packaging Report 2022, titled ‘Get Your Packaging Right’, to help Irish SMEs and food businesses improve their packaging strategies, reduce costs and ultimately minimise their impact on the environment.

It also highlights the ways packaging can work as an effective salesperson for brands, what retailers are looking for, the funding

David Leydon, Head of Food and AgriBusiness, and Lorcan Bannon, Associate Director, Food and Agriculture, pictured at the launch of the ifac Packaging Report 2022.

Image by rawpixel.com

options available for packaging, as well as some of the emerging packaging solutions on the market, such as sugarcane and seaweed. In addition, the report features case studies and helpful learnings from Irish food businesses, including Finnegan’s Farm and performance nutrition brand, All Real.

The central tenet of ifac’s Packaging Report 2022 is the importance for food businesses to conduct a packaging audit to put them in control of rising input costs. An audit helps them to identify ways to do things better and it examines processes, suppliers, materials, internal and external teams, branding and the cost associated with packaging. Once businesses understand all the basics, they can look at how some of the emerging trends have the potential to deliver more sustainable packaging solutions for their businesses.

“Now more than ever, Irish food businesses need to have a well-thought-through strategy to manage their approach to packaging,” noted Lorcan Bannon, ifac Associate Director, Food and Agribusiness. “Sustainability, a brand’s presence on retail and digital shelves and the incorporation of emerging packaging trends are all key considerations.

“We also encourage businesses to analyse the costs associated with their packaging through the use of the ifac Packaging Cost Calculator and our packaging audit template. These tools are practical ways to ensure that packaging is helping your business to grow instead of holding it back. Food businesses that invest in a packaging audit, including identifying in-house strengths and current weaknesses within their approach to packaging and the opportunities and threats that exist, can see a significant positive impact on their business.”

You can download ifac’s Packaging Report 2022 at: https:// downloads.ifac.ie/x/6e818a04ab/ifac-packaging-report-website.pdf.

AquaStop from Smurfit Kappa One of Ireland’s, and indeed Europe’s biggest packaging suppliers, Smurfit Kappa have also announced a breakthrough recently, with the development of an innovative and sustainable water-resistant paper. AquaStop is part of Smurfit Kappa’s new TechniPaper portfolio, which consists of an array of highperformance papers designed to handle even the most complex supply chains.

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Waste Management & Recycling: Packaging The AquaStop paper is water-resistant thanks to a special coating which is added to it during the manufacturing process.

Unlike many other coatings, this does not compromise the recyclability of the product and can be recycled in the same way as standard paper-based packaging. As it is designed to withstand exposure to water without being damaged, it is suitable for eCommerce packaging and packaging for products such as flowers, detergent and fruit and vegetables, where temporary protection against water is needed.

“We are continuously developing innovative and sustainable packaging solutions that are helping to meet our ever-growing customer needs, no matter how challenging or unusual the ask is,” noted Saverio Mayer, CEO of Smurfit Kappa Europe. “AquaStop is a must-have product for customers with complex supply chain requirements and is another example of how, at Smurfit Kappa, we have the brightest minds and most creative spirits working towards a common goal.”

Marketing, Tetra Pak. “Understanding our customers’ needs and having collected consumer insights through multiple pieces of research across various markets, our new tethered caps have been designed to enhance convenience. For instance, they are easy to open and re-close for subsequent consumption, while featuring carefully sized diameters for smooth pouring and drinking.”

Tethered caps play an important role in preventing litter, as the cap will stay attached to the package. They could also help reduce the carbon footprint of the carton when they are chosen by food manufacturers as plant-based options, made from polymers derived from responsibly sourced sugarcane, thereby increasing the renewable content of the package. Additionally, a majority of Tetra Pak’s tethered cap portfolio features a reduced amount of plastic. Depending on the various solutions, the company achieved a plastic content reduction ranging between 7% and 15%.

Emerging sustainable packaging materials THE ifac report includes information on some non-traditional packaging forms, which score high on sustainability.

Smurfit Kappa’s new AquaStop paper is water-resistant thanks to a special coating which is added to it during the manufacturing process.

Tethered caps from Tetra Pak Meanwhile, Tetra Pak have announced partnerships with some of the world’s leading beverage brands to launch tethered caps on carton packages, including Tipperary’s Borrisoleigh Bottling Ltd, who began commercial production of the new plant-based C38 Pro tethered cap on Tetra Top 330 and Tetra Top 500 carton packages in May. “We are delighted to be supplying a number of customers with tethered cap solutions, helping them to ‘walk the talk’ towards their sustainability ambitions,” noted Julia Luscher, Vice President

Borrisoleigh Bottling Ltd began commercial production of new tethered caps in May.

1. Sugarcane packaging Ecopak are a Wicklow-based company that use innovative, sustainable materials to produce packaging for a variety of products in two forms: sugarcane bagasse and palm bark.

2. Seaweed packaging Skipping Rocks Lab in the UK have used seaweed to create a material called Notpla, which is 100% edible, biodegradable and compostable. This has been used to make Oohos, a plastic-free bubble that can contain up to 200ml of liquid and can even be eaten afterwards.

3. Lab-grown packaging MakeGrowLab are a Polish company who have made it their mission to grow a new era of materials to replace fossil-fuels in packaging. They have engineered a high performing solution which is durable, 100% free of plastic, home compostable and 40 times stronger than paper. The material serves as a barrier to oxygen and bacteria. It is insoluble in water and impermeable to water, which makes it a great alternative to plastic-coated paper and plastic foils. From bags to sachets, the material can be used for all kinds of packaging and wrapping that is normally done with plastic.

4. Wax packaging Wax packaging can be used to keep food fresher for longer.

It is particularly effective for fruit, vegetables, bread and other bakery products.

5. Edible packaging A start-up company in Waterford called Signal Box Coffee have taken on the sustainability challenge by being the first food service company in their area to offer a sustainable coffee cup alternative. They sell their coffee in cups made out of material similar to a cornetto cone - 100% vegan with no preservatives.

6. Cornstarch, chalk, wood pulp packaging Down2Earth are a Cork-based company using a variety of nontraditional, sustainable packaging including cornstarch, chalk, sugarcane bagasse and wood pulp to form a whole catalogue of foodservice packaging. While the products are made of mixed materials, they are all completely compostable, meaning they all share the same recycling stream.

7. 100% recyclable meat tray Thanks to innovative research from the University of Swansea, a new form of plastic packaging for raw meat is becoming more accessible. This technology avoids the need for non-recyclable pads inside the trays, meaning the entire packaging tray can now be recycled.

36|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Waste Management & Recycling: Repak

What increased plastic recycling rates mean for you Séamus Clancy, CEO, Repak, explains what new EU packaging recycling targets mean for Irish businesses, particularly when it comes to plastic packaging recycling, and advises on how to get the most from your waste contract.

In 2018, the European Union updated a number of directives covering waste as part of its overall Circular Economy Package.

As a result of these changes, the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (94/62/EC) was amended, with higher targets for packaging reuse and recycling to help increase recycling rates for all packaging placed on the market across Europe.

In 2020, the Irish Government published an amendment to SI 282/2014 - European Union (Packaging) Regulations 2014. This amendment (S.I. No. 322/2020) increased recycling targets for packaging in line with the new European legislation.

Séamus Clancy, CEO, Repak.

Ireland’s recycling targets for 2025 and 2030 have increased for packaging overall, as well as for each of the individual packaging materials placed on the Irish market.

As a result, Ireland’s recycling targets for 2025 and 2030 have increased for packaging overall, as well as for each of the individual packaging materials placed on the Irish market.

A challenge for Ireland At present, Ireland meets all of the previous EU targets set in the Packaging & Packaging Waste Directive. In fact, we already exceed 2025 targets for Wood (69%) and Paper & Cardboard (84%). In the case of glass recycling, we already exceed our 2030 targets with a current recycling rate of 86% (Waste Packaging Statistics

Although most plastic packaging is no longer landfilled we currently only recycle 31%. We need your help to meet future EU plastic recycling targets of 50% by 2025 and 55% by 2030. As an Irish business you are obligated to segregate the waste you generate at your premises for recycling.

Waste contractors must provide you with the necessary bin collection systems to maximise the segregation and recycling of your waste.

Repak will provide you with the support and advice to help ensure you are recycling correctly and help to reduce your waste management costs. Please contact our Membership Team and help Ireland remain one of Europe’s top recycling countries.

38|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Waste Management & Recycling: Repak Material All Packaging Plastic Wood - including repair and reuse Metal

Previous Target 55%

2025 Target 65%

2030 Target 70%

22.5%

55%

55%

15%

25%

30%

50%

-

-

-

Ferrous Metals (e.g., Steel)

-

70%

80%

-

Aluminium Metals

-

50%

60%

60%

70%

75%

60%

75%

85%

Glass Paper & Board

Table showing current and future EU packaging recycling targets.

for Ireland - www.epa.ie/our-services/monitoring--assessment/ waste/national-waste-statistics/packaging/.

However, the new plastic packaging recycling targets will be more challenging for Ireland to meet and present an opportunity for Ireland to change the way in which we manage these often complex materials, which currently have a recycling rate of 31% (Repak estimates for 2021).

To achieve the new EU targets of 50% by 2025 and 55% by 2030 will require a dramatic change by all stakeholders in order to capture more of this material. This will require behavioural change amongst consumers, changes to how the materials are handled by businesses and treated by the waste industry, as well as investments in local plastic recycling infrastructure here in Ireland.

“The more material that is being recycled, the lower the cost. In fact, it is important to note that source segregated material that has been baled is often collected free of charge.”

The business opportunity As a packaging compliance scheme, Repak funds the recycling of packaging waste in order to help Ireland meet its packaging recycling targets. In 2020, Repak saw a 3.5% decline in the tonnes of backdoor plastic packaging waste it funded versus 2019.

This is most often due to poor waste segregation practices on site as a result of: • Recyclable plastic packaging being discarded in business general waste bins; • Material being too contaminated when placed in a recycling bin, making it unsuitable for recycling; • Waste collection infrastructure or services that do not meet the current needs of the businesses.

Although this decline is a concern, it must also present a significant opportunity to increase plastic packaging recycling rates, given that circa 50% of all packaging waste generated in Ireland arises at commercial premises.

What can you do?

Legal Obligations on Businesses First of all, it is important to note that there are legal obligations on Irish businesses when it comes to the segregation of packaging waste. Regulation 5 of the European Union (Packaging) Regulations

2014 as amended states that: • Producers should ensure that packaging waste is separated at source, by material type; • Packaging waste should be collected by a contractor for the purposes of recycling.

It is important, therefore, that your business is segregating all recyclable packaging. Plastic packaging materials, such as plastic pallet wrap, shrink hoods, case wrap and pallet sheets, should be separated from other types of waste. If in doubt about what your waste contractor will accept in the recycling bin or in bales, ask them for their assistance.

It is also essential that these recyclable materials are kept as clean and dry as possible so that they are suitable for recycling at the point of collection.

What you should expect from your waste contractor Waste contractors have a significant role to play in helping you to maximise recycling at your premises. It is, therefore, critical to ensure that they are providing the following offering: 1. At least a three bin service for recycling (General Waste, Organic Waste and Mixed Dry Recycling).

2. Support in order to source segregate by material where possible such as through baling of plastic film, bottles and the separation of other recyclable items such as drums or barrels.

These items are usually manufactured from highly recyclable plastics such as Polyethylene (LDPE or HDPE), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) or Polypropylene (PP).

3. A breakdown of what the waste contractor is doing with your waste, showing what materials are being recycled; • What materials are being recycled; • What materials are being recovered or disposed; • Food waste collected; • The associated cost of all of the above.

This can usually be provided on a monthly basis and can help you track trends over the year to see how well you’re managing and any further improvements that might be needed.

The more material that is being recycled, the lower the cost. In fact, it is important to note that source segregated material that has been baled is often collected free of charge.

What to do if there are any shortfalls in the current arrangements If you are having challenges achieving good segregation on site due to the bins or balers you currently have, it is important to engage with your waste contractor, who can advise on how you improve this and implement the changes within an agreed timeframe. It is also important to note that improvements in recycling rates will not only help the environment but can reduce costs for your business.

Evaluate and review your waste services on a regular basis. A list of waste contractors (Repak approved recovery operators) is available on our website at www.repak.ie.

If you need any additional support, you can also contact our packaging services team here at Repak at preventandsave@repak.ie or call us on (01) 4670190.

Waste contractors have a significant role to play in helping you to maximise recycling at your premises.

Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie|39

Good 4 U

Health trend here to stay Far from stalling the move towards healthier eating, the pandemic expedited its adoption amongst Irish consumers.

WHILE there was a growing health and wellness movement in Ireland prior to the pandemic, Covid-19 accelerated this trend and made consumers even more mindful of their consumption, according to the latest report into the Health & Wellness packaged food and beverage sector in Ireland by Euromonitor International.

The outlook is positive for Health & Wellness over the coming years, Euromonitor predict, as the legacy of the pandemic continues to make consumers much more mindful about what they consume. Many consumers will continue to avoid high levels of sugar, fat, salt and caffeine going forward, with manufacturers responding by offering products with either zero or reduced contents of these ingredients.

Naturally healthy is the second largest product area in terms of value sales within health and wellness packaged food. The sector has benefitted from the pandemic, with healthy current value and volume growth both in 2020 and 2021 and higher than the growth registered prior to the pandemic, as consumers focus more on eating healthily. Big sellers in this category include naturally healthy high fibre bread and naturally healthy breakfast

cereal, such as porridge oatlets.

While Irish consumers have always looked to support local, this sentiment increased further during the pandemic, as shoppers looked to support the Irish economy and local jobs. Consumers are proud of their food heritage and perceive Irish brands to be of good quality, especially in dairy and meat.

Euromonitor predict that consumers will continue to avoid overly processed foods to the benefit of naturally healthy, with healthy constant value growth predicted in the coming years. Consumers are increasingly knowledgeable about food and are looking to eat healthily, with constant reporting in the media about unhealthy packaged food, on top of environmental concerns, feeding into a desire for less processed packaged food.

The naturally healthy category also benefits from being more affordable than many other health and wellness products.

‘Free from’ is the most dynamic health and wellness packaged food area, according to Euromonitor, registering double-digit value and volume growth in both 2021 and 2020. The rising prevalence of vegans, vegetarians and flexitarians has brought about a rapid shake-up in

supermarket portfolios over recent years.

‘Free from’ is expected to register the highest constant value growth of all health and wellness packaged foods over the coming years, according to Euromonitor, with free from dairy, followed by free from meat, continuing to be the largest product areas in terms of value sales, as well as also registering the highest constant value growth. Euromonitor foresee continued new product launches in the coming years, in both branded and private label.

Organic packaged food registered the highest current value growth after ‘free from’ in health and wellness packaged food in 2021, according to Euromonitor.

However, organic has been slower to take off in Ireland than some other EU countries such as the UK and Germany.

Irish consumers perceive Irish branded products to be of high quality, especially for meat and dairy, and are proud of their grass-fed herds and this appreciation of Irish produce has slowed the demand for organic somewhat, Euromonitor believe.

However, they do predict a positive outlook for organic packaged food in Ireland in the coming years, given the strong association of organic packaged food with health and wellness.

40|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Good 4 U

New Benecol Oat is a plant-based yogurt shot made of oats and enriched with plant stanols designed to help lower cholesterol, available in Strawberry, Raspberry & Blueberry, and Mango flavours.

Benecol Benecol have launched a new plantbased yogurt alternative and oat shot range called Benecol Oat. Targeted at shoppers over 35, the new plant-based yogurt shot is made of oats and enriched with plant stanols designed to help lower cholesterol.

The shots (rsp: €4.99) are available in Strawberry, Raspberry & Blueberry, and Mango. All variants are free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives and only contain fruit and naturally occurring oat sugar. The NPD is available now across leading retailers nationwide.

The brand hopes to reach younger consumers than Benecol’s usual target demographic in the category looking for healthy, great-tasting and convenient products.

The range was launched last month at a Benecol Breakfast event, hosted

by Influencer James Kavanagh and TV personality Glenda Gilson, where guests were asked to come along and have their cholesterol tested. The launch is also supported by TV, VOD, OOH, advertising and experiential marketing.

“We’re hugely excited to announce the launch of our new Benecol Oat range.

This offering means we can reach new consumers and bring the conversation back to the importance of understanding cholesterol, while also entering the brand into the plant-based category,” said Laura O’Connell, Benecol Brand Manager. “The new Oat range provides younger, more discerning consumers with a product that

is proven to help lower cholesterol, without compromising on great taste.”

Plant stanol ester has been shown to lower cholesterol. High cholesterol is a risk factor in the development of coronary heart disease. A daily intake of 1.5-3g of plant stanols has been shown to lower cholesterol in 2-3 weeks as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle.

John West John West are the proud sponsor of GAA Féile! This year, again, they will be supporting the young athletes and their families with a range of products that are naturally high in natural protein and Vitamin D, supporting muscle maintenance and the normal functioning of the immune system.

John West have been working with a team of expert dietitians to engage consumers around nutrition and active lifestyle. Increasingly, consumers are looking for ways to better their health, maintain their physical fitness and overall wellbeing, for themselves and their families.

“Adequate protein intake throughout all life stages is essential for health as proteins are the building blocks within the body. A low intake of protein will not maintain optimal muscle mass and function,” explained registered dietitian, Noreen Roche. “Regular consumption of high-quality proteins like tinned tuna, fish and eggs are important to ensure we protect against muscle loss.”

The Innovative No Drain Fridge Pot from John West has proven hugely popular with Irish consumers.

Did you know 4 in 10 adults suffer from high cholesterol and it’s major risk factor in the development of coronary heart disease?*

OATEN

YOUR HEART

9 Delicious 9 100% plant based 9 Lowers cholesterol** Follow us on

or

In-store now! for exciting news!

*https://files.digital.nhs.uk/23/6B5DEA/HSE19-Adult-health-rep.pdf **Plant stanol ester has been shown to lower cholesterol. High cholesterol is a risk factor in the development of coronary heart disease.

The beneficial effect has been shown with a daily intake of 1.5-3.0g of plant stanols as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle

42|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Good 4 U By continuing to launch innovative ranges such as No Drain Fridge Pot, No Drain Infusions, No Drain+ and Tuna Bowls,

that are both invigorating and tasty, John West make it easy for your shoppers to get natural protein and natural vitamin D

No Drain Infusions, including the Chilli and Garlic with Tuna; another innovative product from John West.

into their diet and to support muscle maintenance.

New from John West: Tuna Bowl features tuna meatballs in a smokey barbecue sauce with sweetcorn and rice.

Bord Bia campaign promotes fruit and veg consumption

Life is Better with Fruit and Vegetables was launched in Dublin restaurant, Bites by Kwanghi, owned by campaign ambassador, Kwanghi Chan.

MORE than half (56%) of Irish millennials eat fruit and vegetables for health reasons; Bord Bia are on a mission to increase this figure by educating the next generation. A three-year EU and industry funded campaign, implemented by Bord Bia, launched recently in a bid to encourage millennials to increase their fruit and veg intake. The ‘Life is Better with Fruit and Vegetables’ campaign aims to promote the dietary benefits and sustainability of fresh, locally grown, in-season produce to millennials who are seen as a key influencing group in society.

The campaign’s objective is to educate 25-34 year old millennials across Ireland, encouraging them to prepare healthy meals and live a healthier lifestyle, using sustainably sourced, locally grown in-season produce. Currently the average number of actual portions for fruit and vegetables for millennials in Ireland is 3.2 portions, whereas the government recommends up to seven per day. Research from the Bord Bia Fresh Produce Report 2020 found that 69% of 16-34 ‘home cooks’ get inspiration for the meals they cook from social media. Fun, educational and feel-good information and recipe inspiration will be available on the soon to be launched campaign website, fruitnveg.ie, and will also be shared via Instagram and Facebook.

“We are incredibly excited to launch the Life is Better Campaign to help to educate our 25–34 year olds to cook with our locally grown seasonal produce,” explained Lorcan Bourke, Sector Manager for Fresh Produce in Bord Bia. “We understand a stumbling block to enjoying fruit and vegetables is cooking knowledge, particularly for time-limited young professionals and parents. Taken together with engrained consumption habits, we really feel we can deliver delicious food and improve the health of the nation.”

Life is Better with Fruit and Vegetables was launched in Dublin restaurant, Bites by Kwanghi – owned by campaign ambassador, Kwanghi Chan. The Asian restaurateur and TV personality joins chef Eoin Sheehan, Instagram influencers Rachel Hornibrook and foodie duo the GastroGays as campaign ambassadors who will partner with Bord Bia over the next three years to create recipes to inspire millennials. One particular input Kwangi will bring to the campaign will be to show millennials all of the exciting ways to bring fruit and vegetables into Asian inspired food. A series of exciting events will partner with Bord Bia on this campaign, kickstarting with Body & Soul Festival on June 17-19.

NT A L ·P

BASE

D·

THE PLANT BASED

with the creamy taste NOW AVAILABLE IN-STORE

Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie|45

Buying Irish: Guaranteed Irish

June is Guaranteed Irish Food Month

Guaranteed Irish are calling on food and drink producers to showcase the G this June, as consumers are looking out for it in-store.

Sharon Fitzpatrick, MD, Green Grocer’s Daughter, Luxury Hampers, pictured with Brid O’Connell, CEO, Guaranteed Irish.

WITH a global food shortage and concern over supply chains, has it ever been more important to champion Guaranteed Irish food and drink producers?

According to the new consumer research, the main reasons people buy Irish is to support local jobs and Irish businesses.

More than three-quarters of respondents (77%) said they

agreed that the Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of buying more Irish products. Some 77% of respondents said they prefer to buy local whenever possible, while nearly two-thirds (64%) said they have made a conscious decision in the past 12 months to buy more Irish and local products (Source: SuperValu).

46|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Buying Irish: Guaranteed Irish Look out for the g: the Fitzpatrick family, Clonakilty Foods, who won the “Indigenous Food Category” at the recent Guaranteed Irish Business Awards in the Shelbourne Hotel.

a truly sustainable manner?

Does the company the consumer is choosing ‘do the right thing’?”

Iconic symbol Those fortunate enough to be Guaranteed Irish license holders can use the iconic symbol across packaging, comms, sales and media, which connects with customers. As 95% of Irish consumers associate the symbol with ‘Helping the local economy’ and a further 94% of consumers “believe that by purchasing from firms with the Guaranteed Irish symbol, they are reducing their carbon footprint”, it’s a no-brainer when it comes to using it as a mark of differentiation (Source: Guaranteed Irish/ Red C).

“People want to buy Irish and local, but its more than that, they want to know the provenance of their food and drink and their ‘back story’,” explains Brid O’Connell, CEO, Guaranteed Irish. “It’s no longer just marketing, it’s marketing with a purpose. Does the food and drink producer sustain jobs, communities, provenance in

Partnering with SuperValu To mark Guaranteed Irish Food Month, SuperValu are partnering with Guaranteed Irish to encourage shoppers to buy Irish and support local this June.

Guaranteed Irish are encouraging consumers to buy their Irish food and beverage products from Guaranteed Irish suppliers and stores.

“We are proud to partner with the Musgrave group in this respect,” Brid explains.

“Sourcing over 75% of their products in Ireland, SuperValu showcase a multitude of distinguished Irish brands and producers nationwide.

More importantly and unlike other retailers, they commit to a sustained support system, where small producers get their leg on the ladder and they allow them remain there for 52 weeks of the year.

It is not just a marketing initiative; it is a commitment to the local community and local producers, making the communities in which they are based more sustainable and economically viable.”

For decades, Ireland’s growers, producers, and food crafters have created a foundation on which Ireland’s flourishing food industry is based and one which is renowned for quality. This summer, consumers should look out for the Guaranteed Irish symbol when grocery shopping or buying artisan goods for their garden party, picnic, BBQ, or whatever the occasion. By looking for the Guaranteed Irish symbol, they can be reassured that they’re supporting the Irish food industry and its talented producers, shortening the supply chain and reducing their carbon footprint.

Guaranteed Irish: #AllTogetherBetter.

Guaranteed Irish food members can be found under the membership directory via www.guaranteedirish.ie, or alternatively visit the Artisan Food & Drink category of www.guaranteedirishgifts.ie, a portal providing wonderful artisan food gift ideas.

John Fleming Ice Cream Maker at Muckross Creamery “My name is John Fleming and as a Killarney dairy farmer and ice cream maker I am proud to be a member of Guaranteed Irish. Muckross Creamery ice cream is made on our family dairy farm in Muckross in Killarney. As a father with six children I believe that supporting local is very important and that Guaranteed Irish is a symbol associated with provenance and trust in the origins of our food. When people see the Guaranteed Irish symbol on our products they know that this is Irish ice cream and that by buying our product they are helping to build a sustainable local economy for all our futures.”

Ray Kelly Marketing Director at SuperValu “By buying Irish and supporting local you are actively boosting your community and Irish owned businesses. SuperValu is committed to supporting more Irish food producers in delivering the best quality products for our customers, over 75% of products in SuperValu are sourced in Ireland. SuperValu are proud partners of Guaranteed Irish who showcase the best of locally based businesses.”

Des McSwiggan Co-Founder of Hope Beer “The ethos of Guaranteed Irish of providing quality jobs, supporting local communities and being committed to Irish provenance is something we fully believe in and support. Myself, Jeanne and Wim founded the brewery and as we are from the area we are very conscious of our place in the community. When we can we want to give back and support local clubs and initiatives. Ensuring our beers are brewed with as many Irish ingredients as possible is also important to us; for example we aim to source 90% of our grain bill from Irish suppliers.”

Look out for the

in stores and online this summer.

Join Us. Guaranteed Irish champions locally based businesses that support jobs and communities throughout Ireland.

Visit GuaranteedIrish.ie or call 01 661 2607 today.

48|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Buying Irish: SuperValu

SuperValu launch Taste of Local initiative

SuperValu’s new Taste of Local initiative is showcasing small Irish food and drink producers in stores right across the country, while the retailer is also supporting Guaranteed Irish Food Month.

Pictured at the launch of SuperValu’s Taste of Local initiative are (l-r): Tara McCarthy, Bord Bia; Bernard Cronin; Sia Browne; Tim McGlynn; Méabh Mooney; Oisin Geoghegan, LEO; and Carmel Biggane, Food Academy Manager, SuperValu.

SUPERVALU have announced the launch of their Taste of Local initiative, which showcases small Irish food and drink producers in stores across the country. The launch comes as new research reveals 81% of people think it is important to buy Irish products.

No fewer than 33 new Irish food and drink producers who have completed this year’s Food Academy programme now have their products available in the Taste of Local section in-store.

The Taste of Local initiative, which highlights quality local Irish food and drink products, showcases the producers who have gone through the Food Academy programme, as well as highlighting hyperlocal products that are unique to local stores.

According to the new consumer research, the main reasons people buy Irish is to support local jobs (59%) and Irish businesses (54%). More than three-quarters of respondents (77%) said they agreed that the Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of buying more Irish products. Some 77% of respondents said they prefer to buy local whenever possible, while nearly two-thirds (64%) said they have made a conscious decision in the past 12 months to buy more Irish and local products.

Success of Food Academy programme The Food Academy programme, which is delivered in conjunction with Bord Bia and the Local Enterprise Offices, gives early-stage

food and drink producers an opportunity to get their products on SuperValu shelves 52 weeks of the year. The programme has been an established part of the Irish food industry for nine years now and supports 1,500 jobs nationwide.

“Supporting local Irish communities and businesses is at the heart of everything we do at SuperValu,” explained Carmel Biggane, Food Academy Manager at SuperValu. “Food Academy producers are delivering consistently high quality, great tasting products that are at the cutting edge of innovation. Producers are very finely tuned to the needs of today’s consumer and embody a fantastic entrepreneurial spirit to deliver exciting brands for the future.”

SuperValu are delighted to launch another 33 new producers from this year’s Food Academy programme, which will be showcased in Taste of Local. “This year’s new entrants have a wide range of products from plant-based offerings, organic produce, healthy convenience, sustainably foraged and harvested, as well as innovative non-alcoholic drink,” Carmel continued.

“Uniquely, our Food Academy programme supports producers 52 weeks of the year, so shoppers will be able to buy these great tasting products throughout the year, making a big difference to these small local producers. I’d like to extend our congratulations to the 33 producers who successfully completed this year’s programme; we look forward to seeing your products on our shelves around the country.”

We know supporting local is important to you

FOOD ACADEMY PROGRAMME

That’s why our Food Academy programme is bringing a range of new producers to SuperValu stores across the country. Check out some selected producers below and look out for their fantastic products in your local store.

Kerry Kefir Kerry

Sodalicious Limerick

The Good Dairy Cork

y OpenHive Hone Dublin

Zingibeer Dublin

The Raw Juice Dublin

Nibbed Wicklow

Blasta Delights Kerry

Mary-Ellen’s Me Cavan

adow

Dublin Hills Go Dublin

Good Brew Dublin

Root Up Louth

#Supportlocal

Company

Company

Flying Saucery Wicklow

Greenes Family Westmeath Little Red’s Sauc Dublin

Supporting small producers

es

ats Cheese

Kitchen Malay Kitchen Cork

50|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Buying Irish: SuperValu Over the past 12 months, shoppers say they have actively increased their efforts reduce their impact on the environment with three-quarters of people recycling more (76%), 69% reducing their use of single use plastic and 68% reducing waste in their household. Some 84% believe it is important to buy products that are in sustainable packaging.

The new research highlighted that three-quarters of people (76%) prefer to buy more sustainable products whenever possible. More than two-thirds (69%) say they have made a more conscious decision to buy more sustainable products over the last 12 months. Nearly two-thirds (63%) of Irish shoppers have bought more locally produced goods in the past 12 months. Buying Irish products is not just important for the local economy, it is also positive for the environment. Some 89% of people believe buying local helps the environment, while more than half of shoppers say that low food miles are an important consideration when doing their shopping (58%).

When asked what environmentally sustainable actions by business they value, one-third of respondents said waste reduction (33%), a quarter said using sustainable packaging, 14% said reducing Brid O’Connell, CEO, Guaranteed Irish, is pictured with Ray Kelly, Marketing Director, carbon footprint, while more than one in 10 (13%) said protecting and supporting biodiversity.

Musgrave Retail Partners Ireland.

A strong foundation for success Tara McCarthy, Chief Executive, Bord Bia, said: “Ireland’s food and drink producers are known at home and internationally for their high quality, distinctive products and sustainable manufacturing practices. Bord Bia are proud to be in partnership with SuperValu and the Local Enterprise Offices to deliver the Food Academy programme, which enables small businesses to navigate through their initial growth phase. We believe that in a demanding trading environment, growing companies’ skills and capabilities in consumer understanding, branding and business development provides them with a strong foundation. We wish the 33 graduates from this year’s programme continued growth and success.”

Padraic McElwee, Chair of the network of Local Enterprise Offices, added: “We are committed to fostering an environment of innovation and entrepreneurship and the Food Academy programme, partnering with SuperValu and Bord Bia, is an example of our commitment in action. We have a proud tradition of food entrepreneurship in Ireland and the high-quality of Food Academy producers is a testament to this. For small businesses in the sector, Local Enterprise Offices can help them start-up through the Digital School of Food and the Food Starter programme, get them ‘market-ready’ through the Food Academy programme and help them to grow even further through specific business training and mentoring. It’s fantastic to see these 33 small businesses follow in the footsteps of so many others and we look forward to continuing to support them grow over the coming years.”

For more information on Food Academy, please visit: https://supervalu.ie/real-people/food-academy-programme.

SuperValu partnering with Guaranteed Irish Meanwhile, SuperValu are partnering with Guaranteed Irish to encourage shoppers to shop sustainably, buy Irish and support local this June as part of Guaranteed Irish Food Month.

The call comes as new research shows that the vast majority (89%) of Irish people believe buying local products can help the environment, while 77% of Irish shoppers feel it is important to buy sustainable products.

Taking action on sustainability “We are at a point in history where action must be taken in order to ensure that we pass on a sustainable world to future generations,” noted Ray Kelly, Marketing Director, Musgrave Retail Partners. “It is heartening to see the importance Irish people place on shopping in a sustainable way. At SuperValu, we have been investing time, resources and finances into becoming a more sustainable business. We’ve operated a zero food waste to landfill policy for over 15 years, we have recycling rates of 97% and over 90% of the plastic packaging for our own brand products is now recyclable.

“While we still have work to do in this area, another key focus of ours is in supporting and developing sustainable Irish producers.

The survey findings prove that shoppers are making conscious decisions to shop sustainably and view Irish and local products as the most environmentally-friendly. At SuperValu we are committed to providing our customers with more sustainable choices.”

According to Ray, shopping local and buying Irish has numerous sustainability benefits, from choosing products with the least amount of packaging to reduced food miles. “This June, we are encouraging shoppers to buy Irish and support local,” he noted, “whether it’s your local food producer, shop or café for Guaranteed Irish Food Month.”

Speaking about the launch, Bríd O’Connell, CEO Guaranteed Irish said: “We are delighted that SuperValu are once again supporting Guaranteed Irish Food Month this June. 365 days of the year, SuperValu encourage their customers to choose sustainable, Irish products that support local food producers and local jobs.

Through buying Irish products, consumers are actively driving the multiplier effect and contributing to building sustainable communities - every €100 spent in the local economy is actually worth €500 to that same local economy (Source: Eurostats). This new research highlights Irish people’s commitment to reducing their carbon footprint and shop local. We are encouraging customers to continue to buy more Irish products, not only for the month of June, but all year round, so we can all play a part in contributing to a greener future, while supporting the local economy.”

Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie|51

Buying Irish: Clonakilty Food Co.

Clonakilty Food Co. - an Irish family-run business CLONAKILTY Food Co. are an Irish family-run business who are passionate about bringing their family of great tasting products into homes across Ireland and beyond. Their story dates back to the 1880s in West Cork, where Clonakilty Blackpudding was first made in Harrington’s butcher shop using a secret spice recipe. The recipe was carefully passed down through the generations and when Edward Twomey bought the butcher shop in 1976, he inherited it.

Thanks to his passion and determination, Clonakilty Blackpudding soon became a household name. Since then, Clonakilty Food Co. have grown their product range to include Whitepudding, sausages, rashers and recently, veggie pudding.

In 2021, Clonakilty updated the packaging design across pudding, sausages and rashers. Their new packaging allows them to communicate their provenance story and importantly, their focus on quality local Irish ingredients. The Guaranteed Irish mark also sits in pride of place on all of their products, reinforcing their ties to their local community and instilling confidence in their consumers that when they buy Clonakilty, they are supporting an Irish business and community.

New visitor centre Clonakilty Food Co. recently opened the Clonakilty Blackpudding Visitor Centre in the heart of Clonakilty town, which not only

Clonakilty updated the packaging design across pudding, sausages and rashers in 2021, with the new looks highlighting their provenance story and importantly, their focus on quality local Irish ingredients.

enriches the tourism offering of the town but also gives fans of their products a chance to look behind the scenes at the production of Ireland’s favourite pudding.

Owner and MD, Colette Twomey, has not forgotten her roots and where it all began. Clonakilty Food Co. is still very much a traditional family business, and the butcher shop is still trading at 16 Pearse Street, Clonakilty. They continue to grow under her watchful eye with a focus on improving and innovating, but one thing that will remain untouched is the Clonakilty Blackpudding secret recipe, which Colette keeps under lock and key!

WWW.CLONAKILT YFOODCO.IE WWW.CLONAKILTYFOODCO.IE A family of great taste

52|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Buying Irish: Aryzta

Aryzta to introduce new speciality bread plant

Pictured at the announcement that Aryzta are completing the installation of their new speciality bread manufacturing plant at Grange Castle, Dublin, are (l-r): Anthony Proctor, Managing Director, Aryzta Ireland/UK; Kieran Rumley, CEO, Love Irish Food; Tara McCarthy, CEO, Bord Bia; and Leo Clancy, CEO, Enterprise Ireland.

Aryzta are poised to double their sourdough and speciality bread capacity at their Grange Castle bakery in Dublin.

ARYZTA are delighted to announce that they are in the final stages of completing the installation of a new speciality bread manufacturing plant at their Grange Castle bakery in Dublin. The investment, which includes a significant expansion of their stateof-the-art live sourdough starter plant, will result in a doubling of capacity for the production of sourdough and speciality breads. This project, supported by Enterprise Ireland, will result in additional capacity for both Aryzta’s Irish and UK customers.

Demand for sourdough bread has shown significant growth in recent years and the increased capacity will enable Aryzta to keep pace with this growing trend. This expansion will also allow for the development of exciting new products to meet the ever more complex tastes of Irish and UK consumers.

Perpetual live starter All of the specialty and sourdough breads produced at the Grange Castle bakery are made using a perpetual live starter, which has

30 years of heritage in the business. This starter is used and regenerated on a daily basis at the Grange Castle bakery and this creates the unique and distinctive flavour of the Aryzta premium sourdough breads.

This announcement follows the 2020 Grange Castle investment, which saw the installation and commissioning of Aryzta’s ‘Next Generation Stress Free French Bread’ baking capability, producing the highest quality French bread available on the market today.

An important step on the journey “This expansion is an important step on the Aryzta journey to premiumise our bread range,” noted Anthony Proctor, Managing Director of Aryzta Ireland /UK, “and to align the business with the consumer demand for breads with high nutritional value, fibre, seeds, grains and of course, sourdough.”

Aryzta Ireland are the owner of the popular Cuisine de France brand, which recently celebrated 32 years in the Irish market.

• ARYZTA has completed the installation of a new speciality bread manufacturing line at its Grange Castle bakery in Dublin.

• Speciality and sourdough breads produced at the Grange Castle bakery are made using a perpetual live starter which has 30 years of heritage in the business.

• Our speciality breads premiumise our range in order to meet the consumer demand for breads with high nutritional value, fiber, seeds, grains and of course sourdough.

For more information, contact afsordering@aryzta.com

54|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Buying Irish: Love Irish Food

Irish SMEs upbeat despite challenges ahead

Irish food businesses face a tidal wave of challenges but still expect growth in 2022, according to the latest Love Irish Food and PwC SME Food Barometer.

Pictured are (l-r): Kieran Rumley, Love Irish Food Executive Director; Owen McFeely, Director, PwC Retail and Consumer Practice; and Mary Sadlier, Coole Swan and Director of Love Irish Food.

NEW research published by Love Irish Food and PwC and conducted among Irish food businesses reveals that Irish food businesses are facing a huge amount of challenges, including rising input costs and inflationary pressures, but still expect growth. The 2022 SME Food Barometer points to the confidence of Irish food businesses in their ability to grow in the face of multiple challenges.

The research reveals high levels of concerns, with over four out of 10 thinking Ireland’s economy will decline in the year ahead. Just 24% of Irish food SMEs believe that Ireland’s

economy will improve in the year ahead, down from 65% last year. Nearly all participants (97%) confirmed that rising input costs and inflationary pressures are their top threats to business growth.

Other top challenges are greater economic volatility (86%) and supply chain issues (66%), and nearly half of participants stated that labour shortages are a key threat for future business growth. Indicating the hope that Covid-19 is behind us, health threats do not feature, having been the top concern last year.

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Buying Irish: Love Irish Food “Irish food producers now face a tidal wave of challenges that encompass near doubling of energy costs, limited availability of key food and non-food ingredients, wider supply chain issues and labour retention costs.”

- Kieran Rumley, Executive Director, Love Irish Food.

Robust business models The survey signals that Irish food SMEs are resilient in the knowledge that they have robust business models and are taking action to control costs. A large majority (85%) are confident about the prospects for their own company’s revenue growth in the year ahead, up from 75% last year.

“The fact that Irish food SMEs are confident about their own organisations’ growth in the face of economic uncertainty is testament to their resilience and their confidence to weather current challenges,” noted Owen McFeely, Director, PwC Retail & Consumer Practice. “They have become accustomed to dealing with recent challenges; both Brexit and Covid-19 have tested their crisis management and business resilience capabilities. Irish food SMEs are operating in a very uncertain environment, yet they remain focused on the priorities of growth, innovation and cost control. Continuing to become sustainable businesses will also be a key focus, with over half planning to work towards a net zero commitment.”

Kieran Rumley, Executive Director, Love Irish Food, added: “Irish food producers now face a tidal wave of challenges that encompass near doubling of energy costs, limited availability of key food and non-food ingredients, wider supply chain issues, and labour retention costs. With inflation now estimated to reach between 7% and 9% in Q3, driven by energy costs, and with unemployment set to close at 5.5% in Q4, the food industry is set for the biggest challenge that it has faced in many decades.”

Cost reduction, innovation and growth The survey findings suggest that planned investment is linked to cost reduction, innovation and growth, to offset the consistent challenges.

Sustainability measures are uppermost in businesses’ minds, as 63% confirmed that sustainability is embedded in their overall business strategy, with the greatest benefits being enhanced reputation and brand trust. Key sustainability investments reported are in the areas of energy consumption (78%), packaging and plastics reduction (68%) and water usage (50%). In addition, over 70% of respondents have or are working towards a net zero commitment, though less than one fifth (19%) have made the commitment. However, less than half of Irish food SMEs reported that they are investing in the specific measurement (25%) or reporting (43%) of greenhouse gas emissions, important ingredients for reaching net zero targets.

Responding further to challenges, the top three general areas for investment in the year ahead are operational efficiencies (48%), production automation (41%) and new products and services (44%). In addition, over half (52%) of respondents are considering awarding pay rises to attract and retain key staff,

while 33% will invest in people and skills despite majority concerns about talent availability.

With increased sales and increased positive customer engagement seen as the top two benefits of building brand trust by eight out of 10 respondents, specific actions relating to this are a focus for the majority. Over six out of 10 respondents specified increasing social media presence and investment in sustainability and in quality and standards as key brand building actions.

“While the confidence of food businesses in their own strengths provides hope, some companies in the food sector will clearly struggle with the challenging market conditions,” noted Love Irish Food’s Executive Director, Kieran Rumley. “Focus and dogged determination will be needed by all sectors of the food industry to allow it to come through this period of challenge and to maintain a viable, independent source of food for the nation.”

Kieran Rumley, Executive Director, Love Irish Food.

Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie|57

Buying Irish: Barry’s Tea

Barry’s Tea expand Infusions range BARRY’S Tea have just launched two new infusions, Focus & Protect, containing 100% natural ingredients with added vitamins.

The blends were created to help people take a moment and put time back into their daily lives to revive and support their wellbeing. There is a holistic approach throughout, with fully recyclable packaging and biodegradable teabags.

Focus contains natural botanicals such as apple, hibiscus, spearmint & ginseng with Vitamin B6, which contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. This invigorating infusion will leave you wanting one cup after another, with the added benefit of being caffeine free.

The infusions range from Barry’s Tea.

New Focus and Protect infusions from Barry’s Tea.

To coincide, Barry’s Tea have also developed the new blend, Protect. Since the pandemic, consumers want to be more proactive in their approach towards immunity. Protect contains natural ingredients that are commonly associated with aiding symptoms during the cold and flu season. These include ginger, lemon, and echinacea, with the addition of Vitamin C, which supports normal function of the immune system. Protect is the perfect infusion for wholesome goodness throughout the year.

The two blends are the perfect addition to their current Infusions range, consisting of Night Time, Matcha, Turmeric & Purity. The two new blends Focus & Protect will RSP at €3.95 and are available across Dunnes Stores in June and in selected Tesco stores in July 2022.

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Buying Irish: Dubliner Cheese

That distinctively Dubliner taste Dubliner Cheese is the perfect ingredient to elevate any dish.

DUBLINER Cheese has established itself as a household name in Ireland, since it launched into the Irish market over 20 years ago.

Dubliner Cheese is proudly produced by Carbery Group. True to its Irish provenance, the milk used to produce Dubliner Cheese is sourced from local farmer shareholders, whose cows are grazing on some of the finest grasslands in the world. Dubliner Cheese is produced using a unique recipe utilising specific in-house starter cultures.

This gives Dubliner the distinctive, creamy yet nutty taste it is renowned for. The high quality, premium Irish cheese is testament

to the cheese makers, who have been producing cheese for over 50 years.

Whether it’s Dubliner Mature, Dubliner Lighter, or something a little stronger like Dubliner Vintage, Dubliner Cheese has something for everyone, across an extensive range of block, sliced and grated offerings.

A versatile, premium ingredient From breakfast to dinner, Dubliner Cheese is an extremely versatile, premium ingredient. Whether consumers have it on its own as a snack, add it to a sandwich or

burger, or use it in pasta bake or quiche, the distinctive, delicious, nutty taste of Dubliner Cheese is the perfect way to enhance the flavour of any dish.

Dubliner Lighter is a great cheese for baking, as it is less oily and melts well whilst cooking. With 33% less fat, the Lighter range has the same ‘Distinctively Dubliner’ taste, with no compromise on flavour.

Dubliner Cheese is available in grocery retail nationwide. To find out more about Dubliner and for lots of delicious recipes, visit www.dublinercheese.ie/recipes.

Secure cash management with

‘Safe-linK’ A ONE-WAY air tube and safe solution, ‘Safe-linK’ offers a reduced risk of major loss due to robbery. It is designed to assist your till staff to remove surplus cash or other high-risk vulnerable items from the sales floor into a locked safe located in a secure, separate part of the premises by air vacuum.

Simple and user-friendly, ‘Safe-linK’ allows the cashier to load the carrier with surplus cash and insert it into the send tube; they then push the button and off it goes, directly into the locked safe in seconds, with no need to leave their post unattended.

‘Safe-linK’ can be installed into any building, is not limited to distance nor is it limited to the number of sending points.

‘Safe-linK’ can be used anywhere cash or valuables are collected and stored in a public area, including shop counters, booths, turnstiles and doorway admission desks, to name a few.

Customised to your needs The pneumatic tube system is available in sizes ranging from 50mm to 160mm (diameter) to move cash to a locked safe, keys in car showrooms and even devices for repair in phone stores! “We work with the retailer and customise each installation to their needs,” explains John Hughes of Advanced Pneumatic Technology Ltd (APT), who own ‘Safe-linK’. “‘Safe-linK’ has been installed in grocery stores, phone shops, fish mongers, opticians, butchers, pubs and hotels.”

To date, there have been over 4,000 ‘Safe-linK’ Cash Tube Systems installed, each one providing security and peace of mind

‘Safe-linK’ is a one-way air tube and safe solution that reduces your risk of major loss due to robbery.

to every retail owner, cashier or staff member and helping to make their working day safer.

APT offer consultation and installation of new systems, as well as alteration, upgrade and relocations of existing systems. They also provide 24-hour support and maintenance services.

For more information on their products and services or to see how APT can tailor a solution to suit your needs, call (01) 8413005 or visit www.safelink.ie.

Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie|59

Retail Ireland: Monthly Update Retail Ireland hosts first Graduation Ceremony for the Apprenticeship in Retail Supervision Programme

Graduates of the Apprenticeship in Retail Supervision.

Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Damien English TD, delivered an inspiring talk about the value of apprenticeships in Irish society and the need for work-based training programmes. Speeches were also delivered by Sean Carlin, Managing Director, Retail Ireland Skillnet, Dr Oran Doherty, Programme Director, and Roisin Woods, master of ceremonies.

The Apprenticeship in Retail Supervision was launched in 2019 to help career progression pathways in the retail sector. It is a two-year Level 6 programme delivered in Dublin, Galway and Cork, which targets existing retail employees seeking managerial positions in retail. It has been designed by retailers and workbased learning experts to ensure that the programme content is current, innovative and practical. For more information about the September 2022 intake, visit www.retailirelandskillnet.com.

ON Friday, May 13, Retail Ireland Skillnet held the Apprenticeship in Retail Supervision inaugural graduation ceremony at the Athlone Springs Hotel, to celebrate the conferment of awards to the Class of 2019. The event was a great success, with 60 apprentices graduating from the programme and over 200 guests in attendance.

It was a wonderful occasion dedicated to acknowledging the achievements of the 60 apprentices who graduated along with the retail employer organisations, workplace mentors, tutors, graduates’ friends and family and the wider retail sector.

Keynote speeches were delivered by the Managing Director of Aramark Food Services in Ireland and Chair of Retail Ireland, Shane Flynn. Shane has also served as the Chair of the Retail Consortium Steering Group over the Apprenticeship programme for the last three years. Dr Mary Liz Trant, Interim Director, National Apprenticeship Office, addressed attendees on the importance of apprenticeship programmes in the Irish education system, the establishment of the National Apprenticeship Office and the ambition to further promote apprenticeships across all sectors.

Pictured are (back row, l-r): Arnold Dillon, Director of Retail Ireland; Roisin Woods, MC; Sharon Higgins; Shane Flynn, Chair of Retail Ireland; and (front row, l-r): Sean Carlin, Managing Director, Retail Ireland Skillnet; Dr Oran Doherty, Programme Director; Minister Damien English and Dr Mary-Liz Trant, Interim Director, National Apprenticeship Office.

Rising inflation and supply chain constraints affecting the grocery sector WHILE headline retail sales figures have remained resilient over recent months, the sharp drop in consumer sentiment in the last two months is a real concern. Cost of living worries have driven the index to an 18-month low and the issue is likely to dominate the domestic political agenda for the rest of the year.

The employment outlook remains positive, but undoubtedly many consumers will now be more cautious in how they spend and invest their money over the coming months. While many households built up savings during the pandemic, this is far from universal. Many are going to feel a real squeeze on their incomes.

After a decade long period of near zero inflation across the grocery and wider retail sector, we are now entering a dramatically different and inflationary phase in the economic cycle, one which many consumers only have a distant memory of.

The most recent Ibec Economic Outlook expects inflation in Ireland to hit 6.1% this year, before easing next year. Recent price

rises have been largely driven by increases in the cost of electricity, gas and other fuels, which in turn have increased transport costs.

Even if headline inflation growth slows, the level of energy and commodity prices will now remain much higher for longer.

For grocery retailers, the cost of produce is only heading in one direction. The supply chains that shook the global economy through the pandemic are delivering another shock, as countries cut off trade with Russia and the war impacts the availability and movement of goods. At the same time, the continuation of Covid-related disruption in China is adding to supply problems and pushing up costs.

According to the World Bank, price increases for food commodities and fertilisers, of which Russia and Ukraine are big producers, are now at their highest since 2008. In the food and drink sector, shortages of critical commodities like grain, maize, wheat and oilseeds could even threaten the viability of production of some lines and products.

Our recent experience of Brexit and Covid means that the resilience of our retail supply chains has been stress-tested like never before over recent years. All of this may, however, be of limited use when it comes to trying to contain international cost pressures, driven by factors outside of our immediate control.

60|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Pet Care

Pet profits

The pandemic saw a huge increase in pet ownership across the country, with a corresponding growth in pet food sales.

THE Covid-19 pandemic saw a large increase in pet ownership during 2020 and 2021. Households enduring lockdowns developed a greater appreciation of their pets or sought to acquire them in order to provide them with companionship and entertainment.

In the dog food sector, there was a significant shift towards economy wet dog food in 2020 and 2021, according to the latest report into the sector from Euromonitor International. Despite the rising popularity of smaller dogs, this was driven by the adoption of more large and medium-sized dogs during the pandemic, as households migrated away from the city centre to live out lockdown periods in places with more outdoor space.

Euromonitor expected dog treats and mixers and mid-priced wet dog food to experience sustained growth, while economy, mid-priced and premium dry categories of dog food looked set to register declines, due to a pandemic-induced surge in sales of and demand for economy and premium wet dog food.

However, Euromonitor predict that post-pandemic, normalisation of the market will see a return of premiumisation.

Polarisation between economy and premium brands will reduce the popularity of mid-priced brands, they predict, as households with a need to rein in their spending will revert to economy brands.

In the cat food sector, prolonged presence of the virus and lockdowns in 2021 reduced consumer spending on cat food after buoyant growth in 2020, according to Euromonitor. During 2020, cat treats and mixers and premium cat food witnessed strong growth, driven by higher disposable income among some households due to lockdown, with people saving money on dining out and holidays due to the closure of foodservice outlets and travel bans. Some of these savings were redirected towards their pet cats. Manufacturers continue to respond to Irish cat owners’ preference for high-quality nutrition for their pets. According to Euromonitor, premiumisation is unlikely to remain as strong in cat food as it is in dog food over the coming years, although it will continue to grow.

Purina Purina are pushing forward in their plan to make pet care packaging easier to recycle, launching their first full pouch ranges “designed to be recyclable” this year.

Gourmet, the European super-premium wet cat food, are debuting the cutting-edge new mono-material packaging with the relaunch of its Mon Petit range, building on a successful year-long

New Gourmet Mon Petit pouches are available since mid-May in more than 20 countries across Europe.

pilot study under the Felix brand in the Netherlands.

This new packaging was introduced in more than 20 countries across Europe, including Ireland, the UK, Belgium and Italy, from mid-May. This relaunch marks an important step in Purina’s path towards 100% reusable or recyclable packaging by 2025. This journey will continue in early 2023 with the introduction of packaging that is “designed to be recyclable” for the Felix Soup range. Felix is the EU leader in wet cat food.

The new pouches address a long-standing challenge for manufacturers, how to provide consumers with simpler plastic structures that are easier to recycle, without compromising on product taste, quality and safety.

The improved packaging is made of Polypropylene (PP), which

e ence of flavour

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62|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Pet Care allows the pet food pouches to be designed to be recyclable, whilst being resistant to high temperatures and offering robust protection for their contents.

The pouches will be sold in a cardboard box which itself is “designed to be recyclable” where recycling facilities are widely available. This box will contain six pouches with three different flavours.

As well as reducing the complexity of packaging, Purina are also exploring innovations, including new paper-based materials and piloting reusable packaging systems where customers can bring their own containers to fill with dry petfood.

The new Gourmet Mon Petit packaging is available in Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Spain, Portugal, the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Poland, Hungary, France, Belgium, Italy, Romania, Croatia, Bulgaria, and Serbia from May 2022.

The new Felix Soup packaging will be available in the UK, Ireland, Malta, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Portugal, Greece, France, Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Hungary Slovakia, Poland and across the Middle East and North Africa region as of early 2023.

“We are proud to be playing our part in creating a world where pets and people can thrive, and initiatives like this support our goal of offering solutions that are better for pets, and the planet,” said Joanne McKenna, Category Country Manager Ireland at Nestlé Purina Petcare. “This innovation is a significant step forward in our drive to deliver recyclable or reusable packaging on all of our products by 2025. As one of the world’s leading pet care and pet nutrition providers, Purina aim to help create richer lives for pets and the people who love them. This vision extends to the world in which we all live, and Purina are working hard to reduce the environmental footprint of the materials we use.”

For details on Purina’s environmental vision on waste and packaging reduction, please visit: https://www.purina.eu/ourimpact.

Mackle Petfoods With the wet dog food category predicted to grow 4.5% CAGR over the next five years (Source: Pet Food Global Market Report 2021: Covid-19 Impact and Recovery to 2030, Globe Newswire), Brandy anticipates continued growth as a trusted and loved local brand amongst Irish consumers.

Brandy dog food is celebrating 50 years of being one of the nation’s favourite pet food brands.

Mackle Petfoods are planning a year of activity to reward Brandy consumers for their loyalty as the brand celebrates a half-century on the market.

Mackle Petfoods was incorporated by John Mackle Senior in 1971, with the first cans of Brandy rolling off the production line in 1972. Produced on the family farm in Co. Armagh from the very beginning, the company started with a handful of employees and now has a workforce of over 230 people. Quality and local provenance are key to Brandy’s ongoing success. Mackle Petfoods source ingredients locally to ensure the highest quality and to minimise travel miles.

The synonymous Bernese Mountain Dog has been used on packaging for over 30 years and paired with the colour red, makes Brandy instantly recognisable on-shelf to help consumers seek out their familiar trusted brand.

Brandy continues to position itself as the ‘affordable everyday’ dog food brand but that does not mean a compromise on taste or quality. Developed with the help of vets and specialist animal nutritionists, Brandy Dog Food products are made using 100% Irish meat, sourced from local suppliers, as well as top quality ingredients to provide complete nutrition for dogs.

The continued success of Brandy demonstrates the strength of the brand’s heritage within the retail arena and the commitment of shoppers to support local brands and businesses. Mackle Petfoods expect this growth to continue over the coming months and years as Brandy has always been a well performing and consistently demanded product within the market.

A year of activity is planned to reward Brandy consumers for their loyalty and introduce the much-loved brand to a new generation of consumers as the brand celebrates a half-century on the market.

The campaign is centred around personalisation, with consumers having the opportunity to feature their beloved pets on Brandy cans and see them roll out in stores!

Teaming up with media partners across Ireland, this national campaign will drive sales and awareness of this leading brand.

Look out for the birthday campaign in stores from June!

Mackle Petfoods’ knowledgeable and experienced sales team are available to advise on a variety of opportunities that will work for a range of store formats. Offering a flexible approach, they are happy to work with individual customers to develop the right plans to drive sales of Brandy within your business all year round. Their friendly customer service team is always on hand for any queries you may have as well. Brandy: by your side for over 50 years If you do not stock Brandy and would like to be part of the celebrations, you can contact the Customer Service team on (+44) 28 8778 4641.

NE W INTRODUCING THE

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Contact your representative for more information

T: +44 (0)28 8778 4641

@catclubcatfood

64|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

GDPR

Dealing with data New challenges lie ahead as GDPR turns four, reports Morgan Stokes.

FOUR years on from the implementation of GDPR, compliance is increasing, but frustrations are growing faster. That’s the takeaway from the annual GDPR survey, conducted by McCann Fitzgerald and Mazars for 2022, released at the beginning of this year.

The annual report, now in its sixth year, found that the number of organisations that believe they are fully or materially compliant with the legislation has increased by 8% on last year; however, this still means that only 18% of Irish businesses believe that they are fully compliant.

Meanwhile, a full 69% believe that the legislation places an unfair burden on businesses, a 13% jump from the previous figure.

The survey also shows continually increasing efforts on the part of business, with 93% conducting regular reviews of their

69% of organisations believe that GRPR legislation places an unfair burden on businesses, up 13% from last year.

privacy policy. “We’re seeing this increased concern around GDPR, this negative attitude towards the legislation, and this additional effort put into what organisations are doing,” said Liam McKenna, Consultant Partner at Mazars, speaking at a webinar on the findings this January. Discontent may simply be the result of the extra effort involved.

However, the Data Protection Commission concedes that changes in the interpretation of the law, particularly around data transfers to countries outside of the EEA, is causing confusion. “There is a greater sense of uncertainty out there, and a sense that something has to change,” admitted Deputy Commissioner Dale Southerland, speaking at the same event.

So what can small businesses expect in 2022, and how can they keep up?

Untangling the rules around international transfers Earlier this year, the Austrian Data Protection Authority ruled that Google Analytics had left EU IP addresses accessible by US authorities, violating GDPR and throwing the use of tracking cookies from one of the most world’s most commonly internet statistic gathering tools into question.

The full implications of this are still being worked out, and the issue may be resolved by the new EU-US Privacy Framework, approved in principle at the end of March. But the case threw a light on the continual changes in this area since the introduction of the legislation. In 2020, the Schrems II case ruled that the commonly used Privacy Shield mechanism for EU/

US data transfers was unlawful. Since then, businesses have had to conduct Transfer Impact Assessments on all transfers outside of the EU, where before they may have just been able to incorporate a model statement from the EU (SCC or Standard Contractual Clause) into the agreement.

The impact is reflected in the 2022 report; while 68% of organisations stated that they were either fully or materially compliant with the legislation, 66% said that the extra obligation would prevent them from hosting data outside the EEA. Personal breach notifications: a further burden on business?

2022 will also see a change in how the Data Protection Commission responds to personal breach notifications.

Businesses are increasing their efforts towards GDPR compliance, with 93% conducting regular reviews of their privacy policy.

Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie|65

GDPR Previously, the office did an in-depth assessment on each breach, before issuing recommendations on how the situation should be handled. As of this year, the Commission will be allocating more of its resources to enforcement, leaving it up to businesses to have fully compliant procedures in place

to respond to a worst-case scenario, which may not be welcome news to businesses already struggling with the requirements.

Keeping up with the changes Businesses are certainly aware of the consequences, with 78% of those surveyed

agreeing that the risks of non-compliance are increasing. The DPC has promised resources for greater education, and workshops are being run through the Small Firms Association, Local Enterprise Offices and Chambers of Commerce.

However, dedicated legal advice may be the best way forward.

Certification Europe: taking information security seriously

CERTIFICATION Europe launched the first accredited certification scheme for information security in Ireland. They certified the first organisations in the country to both BS 7799 and ISO 27001, along with pioneering the certification of electronic signatures and were the first certification body in the world to be accredited under EU Directive 1999/93/EC. Certification Europe take information security very seriously. They are the market leader for ISO 27001 Information Security

Management Systems, ISO 27701 Privacy Information Management, along with Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus.

Cyber Essentials is the first step a company of any size can take on the road to reducing and even preventing a cyber-attack. A single cyber-attack can cause an unmeasurable amount of damage to a company, from both data and financial loss, from their reputation being damaged. Cyber Essentials is an introductory level of protection in cyber security. By completing a remote annual assessment, reassurance can be given that a basic level of protection is maintained. A review of secure configuration, firewalls, user access

controls, security update management, and malware protection is conducted.

Once Cyber Essential certification is achieved, Cyber Essentials Plus is the next step. This is a more in-depth assessment that includes vulnerability testing and a review of mobile devices such as phones and tablets.

Retail environments have changed drastically over the past 20 years, with the implementation of new retail technology, such as self-checkouts, a growing digital presence and a complex supply chain. It is now more important than ever to ensure the environment is protected against malicious cyber-attacks and data loss.

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66|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Nivea

Get your game face on with Nivea Men NIVEA Men, Ireland’s number one male facecare brand (Source: Neilsen ROI Extended Scantrack, 52-week data to December 31, 2021) and the official men’s grooming supplier to Liverpool FC, are helping men embrace their sensitive side.

With 65% of men claiming to have sensitive skin (Source: TNS Sensitive Usage & Attitude report 2015, Russia & Germany), the Nivea Men Sensitive Range protects against the five signs of irritation: burning, redness, dryness, tightness, and itchiness. The formula, which contains 0% alcohol, Chamomile and Almond Oil, moisturises and calms the skin, as well as softening stubble as it grows.

The Nivea Men Sensitive Range protects against the five signs of irritation: burning, redness, dryness, tightness, and itchiness.

Comprehensive male facecare range Consumers can start their day off right with Nivea Men Sensitive Face Wash, a specially developed, mild cleansing gel with Vitamin E that instantly refreshes and thoroughly cleanses the skin, removing all dirt and excess oil.

If they prefer the softness of a clean-shaven face, Nivea Men Sensitive Shave Gel provides a flawless razor glide, allowing even the toughest stubble to be shaved with just one stroke.

The Nivea Men Sensitive Intensive Moisturising Cream is the latest addition to the popular Nivea Men Sensitive Range and has

been specially created to immediately alleviate dry and tight skin.

If consumers have shaving irritations on the days they shave or stubble itch on the days they don’t, they can now take care of both, whichever day of the week it is.

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Dettol

The hard truth about home cleaning 44% of respondents polled for new research said they rarely or never use a bacteria-killing disinfectant spray on soft surfaces.

FROM sofas and beds to rugs and curtains, homes are filled with a lot of soft surfaces, but what most people might not know is the volume of bacteria that can linger on them. A study found that while many people believe that a hard-surfaced toothbrush holder is the item with the most germs in the home, it’s actually a soft-surfaced dishcloth/sponge (Source: 32011 NSF International Household Germ Study). Despite this, according to new consumer research commissioned by Dettol in March 2022, 44% of consumers rarely or never use a bacteria-killing disinfectant spray on soft surfaces.

The research, which examines consumers’ attitudes towards disinfecting household surfaces and cleaning habits, was carried out to drive awareness of Dettol All-In-One Disinfectant Spray, which kills 99.9% of bacteria and viruses, and is suitable for use on hard and soft surfaces. Viruses include Influenza Type A H1N1, Rhinovirus (the leading cause of the common cold), Rotavirus (the leading cause of infectious diarrhoea in children), Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV–the leading cause of lower respiratory infection in children), Poliovirus Type 1, Adenovirus Type 2, Herpes simplex virus Types 1 & 2, Hepatitis A virus.

A softened approach While it’s a known fact that bacteria and viruses can linger on soft surfaces, when consumers polled for the Dettol research were asked what household surfaces they use a bacteriakilling disinfectant spray on most regularly, soft surfaces such as cushions (77%), pillows (76%) and bed sheets/ duvet covers (75%) ranked lowest. Of those polled, 37% (371 people) live with a child under 10 years old and 35% admit to rarely disinfecting a soft surface after their child has sat or played on it.

Health and hygiene Earlier research conducted by Dettol during the Covid-19 pandemic in March 2021 revealed 70% were disinfecting their homes more often, but since restrictions have lifted, 34% are no longer doing so as frequently.

The majority (94%) of people, however, believe that practising good hygiene has an impact on illness prevention, and keeping the home disinfected from bacteria and viruses is an important aspect of bestpractice hygiene habits. An overwhelming 88% of people trust Dettol products to effectively kill bacteria and viruses.

Spray and away At surface level, the Dettol research reveals that many of the public understand the benefits of frequently disinfecting the home, but when it comes to different surface types, hard surfaces are prioritised over soft by most. Perhaps it’s unsurprising then, that 21% don’t believe that bacteria and viruses can linger on soft surfaces and 39% are unaware that there is a Dettol household cleaning product that can disinfect them. Not only does Dettol AllIn-One Disinfectant Spray effectively kill bacteria and viruses on soft surfaces, but it also works just as efficiently on hard ones, too.

“Recently conducted Dettol research shows that while there is concern amongst many of the public about bacteria and viruses lingering on soft surfaces, lots of people typically neglect disinfecting these areas,” said Charl Malan, Head of Marketing at Reckitt. “In fact, 29% of the respondents didn’t know how. At Reckitt, we are proud to be experts in germ kill and have created an all-in-one solution for killing 99.9% bacteria and viruses, whilst also leaving a lovely fragrance too!”

Dettol’s All-in-One Disinfectant Spray range comes in three fragrances, Crisp Linen, Lemon Breeze and Orchard Blossom. For more information on Dettol’s All-in-One Disinfectant Spray range, visit dettol.ie.

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Cold Storage

Temperaturecontrolled stores left out in the cold Elizabeth Bowen, Irish Cold Stores Federation, explains how Irish cold stores operators are key to our ongoing agri-food growth and calls on Government to incentivise temperature-controlled stores to invest in resource efficiency.

COLD storage plays a vital role in Ireland’s agri-food sector and ensures Irish chilled and frozen food products can be enjoyed at home and exported worldwide. As we aim to achieve sustainability in our food systems, cold stores play an active role in reducing food waste and loss. Due to cold storage’s position within the supply chains of exporting food businesses, they can be considered as export enabling firms.

Up until recently, there has been a surplus of cold storage space in Ireland.

The extra space was created after intervention was abolished in 2003. The effect of the surplus space was inexpensive storage for the food industry, resulting in no new stores being built. The agri-food sector grew substantially over the past decade, with Irish food and drink exports increasing from €8.9 billion in 2010 to €13.5

billion in 2021. Increased processing and exports have now resulted in a severe shortage in cold storage space. In addition, Ireland’s expanding pharmaceutical sector is now competing with food companies for space in temperature-controlled stores.

As we adjust to Brexit, pressure on cold and chilled storage is rising due to disruption to supply chains and the need for products to be stored for longer or frozen to go to new markets. Furthermore, European companies who used to supply the Irish market from cold stores in the UK are now sending product directly to be stored in Ireland. Covid-19 and the war in Ukraine have also added more strain to global supply chains and disrupted shipping routes, creating a shortage of container vessels and refrigerated shipping containers. Slower container and product movements across the supply chain are

“Food Vision 2030 contains no mention of temperaturecontrolled stores. Such an omission highlights that these businesses are little understood within our own food supply chain.”

Elizabeth Bowen, Irish Cold Stores Federation, Ibec.

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Cold Storage leading to rising demand for cold storage infrastructure here in Ireland.

The invasion of Ukraine has seen substantial impacts on the cost of gas, in an already unsteady energy market.

Before the crisis, Irish cold stores were experiencing significant increases in their energy costs and many are now reporting that rising prices are having a major effect on their business. In addition, like many other Irish businesses, cold stores are facing several competitiveness challenges from commercial rates, access to credit, increasing transport, labour and insurance costs, as well as a rising administrative burden from new regulations and legislation. In times of uncertainty, it is essential that curbing the business costs over which Government have most influence must be a top priority.

businesses working in cold storage, would like to see new measures introduced to support maintenance, improvements and retrofitting of commercial buildings. A once-off Government-backed commercial rates exemption scheme could support such investment. ICSF believes that better utilisation of the Accelerated Capital Allowances Scheme, by widening the scope of qualifying energy-efficient equipment and simplifying the current scheme, would promote investment in energy efficient products and equipment.

To deliver large-scale emissions reduction in this sector, all existing and new Government supports schemes must be reviewed and refinanced to ensure that cold stores are not excluded and that funds get to businesses in a timely and efficient manner.

Reducing emissions Temperature-controlled stores have been working hard and investing in energy efficient equipment and practices to reduce their emissions and become more sustainable. While more cold stores move beyond the low hanging fruit for energy efficiency, large capital investment will be needed for stores to transition to low carbon. Changes made now will need to last for decades so that these businesses can make sure they are resilient to future energy and emission regulation and taxation. Unfortunately, access to finance and uncertainty about the future path of both energy prices and demand in the economy is slowing down the sector’s decision making on long-term changes to reduce carbon emissions.

To incentivise cold stores to invest in resource efficiency the Irish Cold Stores Federation (ICSF), the Ibec group for

Food Vision 2030: temperature-controlled stores left out in the cold Food Vision 2030 aims to make Ireland a world leader in Sustainable Food Systems and aims for an increase in the value of agri-food exports to €21 billion by 2030 and to achieve a carbon-neutral food system by 2050. To meet such high targets and expectations, all actors within the agri-food supply chain must play a role. The mission and goals for farmers, food producers, Government, stakeholders, and others are well planned out in Food Vision 2030, but unfortunately there is no mention of temperature-controlled stores. Such an omission highlights that these businesses are little understood within our own food supply chain.

Despite these challenges, cold store providers indicate that volumes over the past year have been extremely high and expectations from most members are that

About the Irish Cold Stores Federation IRISH Cold Stores Federation (ICSF) fosters relationships between cold stores, their customers, and the wider supply food chain. Our priority is to ensure that the key issues for the sector are recognised and understood by policy makers at national level.

ICSF works with members to provide a reliable service to meet the needs of Ireland’s growing food sector.

ICSF is part of Food Drink Ireland, Ibec’s trade association for the food and drink industry in Ireland. FDI represents the interests of over 150 food, drink and non-food grocery manufacturers and suppliers.

In you have any questions and queries about the Irish Cold Stores Federation, contact Elizabeth Bowen, PCF Director, Food Drink Ireland at elizabeth.bowen@ibec.ie. occupancy levels will remain at or close to 100% for the remainder of the year, based on reservations from existing customers.

Enhanced food service activity, increased output in the dairy sector, shortage of containers to export products and strong retail volumes have been identified as some of the current drivers of high occupancy.

At the current juncture, ICSF believe it is crucial that appropriate measures are introduced to strengthen Irish cold store businesses to take advantage of new opportunities, play a significant role in achieving the ambitious targets set out for the agri-food sector and support our transition to a low carbon economy.

Temperature-controlled stores have been working hard and investing in energy efficient equipment and practices to reduce their emissions and become more sustainable

Brewed in the UK

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Drinks News Pandemic’s impact on cider market revealed THE Covid-19 pandemic had a hugely negative impact on Ireland’s cider sector in 2021, but there were some early signs of recovery in the second half of the year, according to a new report released on World Cider Day, June 3. The Irish Cider Market Report from Drinks Ireland - Cider shows that last year, domestic sales declined by 4.2%. In total, they were down by 15.1% since 2019. Cider’s share of the alcohol market in 2019 was 7.4%. By 2021, it fell to 5.8%, a fall of 1.6 percentage points, as people shifted to wine and spirits when consuming at home. Exports were also very significantly hit, down by over a half (56.2%) in 2021 to an estimated value of €25m. Despite the major challenges, Drinks Ireland - Cider says there is some hope for optimism and signs of early recovery, as the second half of 2021 saw a 20% increase in cider sales, as hospitality restrictions eased and venues across Ireland welcomed customers back. Jonathan McDade, Director of Drinks Ireland – Cider, welcomed last year’s excise relief programme but called for a wider alcohol excise cut in order to facitiate recovery: “A cut would support the sector, facilitating growth, the creation of jobs and in turn the wider economy.”

€50m boost to Dublin’s economy expected from 2023 Heineken Champions Cup THE return of the Heineken Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup Finals to Dublin’s Aviva Stadium in 2023 is expected to boost the capital’s economy by as much as €50m. “The return of The Heineken Champions Cup to Dublin is significant - it’s not just a highlight in rugby fans’ calendars, but the tourism, hospitality and retail industry across the country will be celebrating this great news too,” noted Maarten Schuurman, MD of Heineken Ireland. “We look forward to working with pubs, venues and off-licences across Ireland to make this another memorable weekend of international rugby.” Pictured are (l-r): Dave Kearney, Leinster Rugby; Noel Anderson, co-owner of The Bridge and outgoing Chair of LVA; Brian Malone, On Trade Regional Manager, Heineken Ireland, and Heather McAree, Brand Activation Manager, Heineken Ireland.

Absolut award promoter €10k for new clubbing event

Powerscourt Distillery announce second limited edition whiskey POWERSCOURT Distillery have revealed the second release in their Estate Series, ‘The Italian Gardens’, a limited edition blended Fercullen Irish Whiskey Amarone cask influence, which is available from June 20 with an RSP of €75. Powerscourt Distillery’s New Head of Whiskey & Product Development, John Cashman, combined an exceptional Fercullen 19YO Malt with an Italian influenced Amarone cask finish, skilfully blended with a very special 12YO Grain Irish Whiskey, delivering an exceptional whiskey.

TEMPORARY Pleasure, a collective of architects and club creatives, have been announced as the winners of a €10,000 fund to create a bespoke clubbing event by Absolut and the Absolut Clubbing Council, an assembly of key personalities in club culture: Krystal Klear, an internationally known Irish DJ, Andrea Horan, club culture activist, and Souletiquette, event promoters & record label. Inspired by what they saw to be the unacceptable demise of our dancefloors and club spaces, Absolut launched the Absolut Clubbing Council in a move to support the next generation of clubbing and invest in Irish club culture. Winner of the bursary, Temporary Pleasure run club-building workshops which empower participants to create DIY venues. Together, they will design, build, and bring a prototype club space to life in just five days.

Growing number of Irish spirits producers to provide energy info on labels A GROWING number of Irish spirits producers have committed to roll out energy information on labels and ingredient and other detailed information online, according to spiritsEurope’s second Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) delivery report. Five SME distilleries and brand owners in Ireland were the latest to sign up to the voluntary MoU: Walsh Whiskey, Lough Ree Distillery, Skellig Six18 Distillery, Sliabh Liag Distillery and the Connacht Distillery. “Irish spirits producers are leading the way in the EU in providing consumers with energy information and nutritional information both on labels and online, so it’s positive to see further progress being made today,” noted Vincent McGovern (pictured), Director of Drinks Ireland - Spirits.

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Drinks News Barefoot launch new rainbow label BAREFOOT, the number seven wine brand in Ireland, (Source: IRI Marketplace Total Ireland, Still/Table Wine, Total Off-Trade Coverage, MAT FY 21), are celebrating Pride Month this June with the launch of an eye-catching new label, inspired by the Progress flag. The striking new label will feature on the brand’s awardwinning Pinot Grigio as a mark of Barefoot’s long-standing advocacy of the LGBTQ+ community. Barefoot have been a proud ally of the LGBTQ+ community since 1988 and are committed to accepting everyone exactly as they are, spreading inclusivity and positivity to wine lovers across the globe. Today, the brand continues to support LGBTQ+ communities by taking part in Pride parades and supporting LGBTQ+ charities all over the world.

Writers’ Tears honour centenary of Ulysses WRITERS’ Tears super-premium Irish whiskey have released a limited, collector’s edition bottle of their Copper Pot expression. The bottling commemorates the centenary of one of the world’s most renowned literary works, James Joyce’s Ulysses. The limited-edition bottle, designed by Studio Minerva of London, features a striking screen-print and line drawing of Sweny’s Pharmacy, which Joyce himself visited in 1904 and features in Episode 5 of Ulysses. The special Writers’ Tears Copper Pot release is limited to just 5,442 bottles and is available in Ireland, Austria, Canada, France, Germany and the UK at an RRP of €45.

Rye River top the craft charts ONE of Ireland’s leading independent craft breweries, Rye River Brewing Company, based in Celbridge Co. Kildare, have bucked the overall market decline of the last year, with an 11% growth making the company Ireland’s number one retail craft brewery. This follows a successful period for the Irish company which has been honoured as the most awarded independent craft brewery in the world for the last two years running. It is also currently preparing for the next phase of growth and is about to go to market to raise €3.5m for growth capital investment.

As the brewery approaches their tenth year in business, they are going ‘back to the source’ and transitioning their best-selling McGargles range of craft beers to the brewery-led Rye River Brewing Company brand.

Irish Honey Liqueur wins double gold at SIP Awards THE Wild Geese Irish Honey Liqueur has taken home Double Gold at the 2022 SIP Awards. This prestigious competition is the only competition with solely consumers as judges, and the medal is the latest in a series of awards won by The Wild Geese Irish Honey Liqueur. Wild Geese Irish Honey Liqueur is made with Wild Geese Whiskey, natural honey from Tipperary and Kilkenny, and a secret blend of spices carefully selected to bring out the character of the whiskey and honey. “To have been selected from a judging panel of consumers, and to have received unbiased consumer feedback is a huge source of pride for us, as it reinforces the true quality of our products, which have been recognised around the world by almost 70 prestigious international awards,” said Andre Levy, Chairman of The Wild Geese producer, Protégé International.

Heineken Ireland sponsor mixed ability rugby tournament HEINEKEN Ireland announced details of their inaugural sponsorship of the 2022 International Mixed Ability Rugby Tournament (IMART), which brought an estimated 1,000 mixed ability rugby players from 28 teams and 14 countries to Cork from June 5-10 for a very special global sporting event celebrating inclusion and diversity. The tournament was hosted by Cork’s Sundays Well Rebels, and featured Cork teams the Ballincollig Trailblazers and the West Cork Jesters. Pictured are Alan Craughwell, Director at Mixed Ability Sports Ireland (top left), Richard Philpott, captain, Sundays Well Rebels (top centre), Aisling O’Brien, On Trade Marketing Manager at Heineken Ireland (top right), Tara Doyle, Communications Manager at Heineken Ireland (front far left), Marie Healy, captain, Ballincollig Trailblazers (front centre left), and Barbara-Anne Richardson, Sustainability and Public Affairs Manager at Heineken Ireland (front centre).

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Employment Law

Just what is a fair redundancy?

Barry Reynolds, Aisling Parkinson and Chris Ryan of DAC Beachcroft stress the importance of fair procedures during redundancy, particularly in the wake of a recent court decision.

IT is fair to say that most businesses in Ireland have had a tough two years as a result of the pandemic. However, there is no doubt that certain industries, including some retail sectors and hospitality, have been hardest hit. Numerous lockdowns and restrictions led to an inevitable drop in trade, which resulted in less work all round. Despite the country reopening for business last year, certain sectors have been slow to bounce back to their former glory, not least because the pandemic has resulted in many Irish shoppers continuing to carry out business online.

This in turn has forced some employers to examine whether it is economically viable to reopen at all or to reopen with the same number of staff. Unfortunately for some, the natural consequence in this sequence of events has resulted in redundancies. This trend appears to be continuing into the near future at least, not helped by a rapid rise in inflation and the overall cost of doing business.

Whilst the topic of redundancy is never easy, it is critically important that employers are aware of their obligations, as well as accompanying employee protections, should the need for redundancies ever arise. Failing to comply with obligations can make a bad situation for an employer a whole lot worse.

In this month’s article, we look at workplace redundancies generally and the recent decision of Walsh v Econocom Digital Finance Ltd, which underscores the importance of a fair redundancy process. The Walsh decision is a helpful reminder for all employers of the steps to be carried out in an individual redundancy process, as opposed to a collective redundancy, which triggers a different set of rules and employee rights. This article focuses on the standards expected in an individual redundancy process.

What is Redundancy?

Redundancy generally involves a situation whereby a role is no longer required in an organisation. Dismissal on grounds of redundancy is one way an employer can justify the termination of employment under Irish legislation, subject to certain conditions being met. This is only the case where a genuine redundancy scenario exists, i.e. where the role in question is generally no longer required, and the redundancy process is carried out in a fair and reasonable manner. Employers must also be aware of any statutory redundancy payment, being two weeks’ pay (capped at €600) per year of service plus one additional week’s pay, which the employee may be entitled to, if they have a minimum of two years’ service with that organisation.

An employer may have no option but to protect its business by implementing redundancies. Before a redundancy can be implemented, the employer should consider every reasonable alternative to it and should only decide on redundancy as a last resort.

If not handled correctly, there is a serious risk of exposure for the employer. An employee may have a number of potential claims, the most likely being an unfair dismissal claim, subject to certain criteria being met. If such a claim is successful, the Workplace Relations Commission (the WRC) may find that an employee was unfairly dismissed, resulting in potential remedies, which can include compensation of up to two years’ gross remuneration, re-engagement with the employer or even re-instatement to the former role.

What is a genuine redundancy?

A genuine redundancy scenario can arise in a number of different ways, and where it results “wholly or mainly” from one of the

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Employment Law

Before a redundancy can be implemented, the employer should consider every reasonable alternative to it and should only decide on redundancy as a last resort.

following reasons, set out by legislation: • Where an employer ceases to carry on its business in part or entirely; • Where an employer’s work is to be done in a different location; • Where work requirements have diminished; • Where work is to be done by other existing employees; • Where work is to be done in a different manner for which the affected employee(s) is not sufficiently qualified or trained; • In circumstances where the work which the employee carried out can be done by a different person who already performs other work for which the affected employee is not sufficiently qualified or trained.

If the reason for the redundancy is based on grounds other than one of the scenarios listed above, it is likely that it will be deemed unfair, giving rise to a claim for unfair dismissal. Simply put, a redundancy scenario can arise where there is a change in business resulting in an employee’s role no longer being required in its current form.

Another key element of a redundancy is that the decision to implement the redundancy is impersonal and not specifically related to a particular employee, for example, and it should not be linked to an employee’s performance or conduct. If an employee is made redundant but their role is later filled by someone else, it will be tough for an employer to contend that the role was truly “redundant”.

Redundancy can arise in a number of situations but more often than not it occurs during a company reorganisation or during the closure or part closure of a business. Once it is established that a genuine redundancy situation exists, it will be necessary to follow a fair process for implementing the redundancy.

Fair selection for redundancy While fair selection is generally not an issue when there is a genuine standalone redundancy situation, it becomes extremely important in circumstances where a number of employees carry out the same role and there needs to be a reduction in role numbers.

In such a scenario, an employer should not select someone for redundancy unless they can prove that they have followed a fair selection process, showing objective reasons why a particular person was selected and others were not. In any potential claim, an employer would be expected to provide the objective selection criteria against which an affected employee was measured. In the absence of such objective criteria, it is unlikely that an employer would be in a position to defend a claim for unfair dismissal.

In some cases, an employer might set out the selection criteria in a policy. In other cases, employers may use a custom and practice such as “last in, first out”. Regardless of an organisation’s approach, it is crucial that this process be adhered to (provided it is fair) and that any decisions and rationale used throughout the process are well documented and communicated transparently to the impacted employee(s).

The consultation process Once it is established that a genuine redundancy situation exists, employers should consult with the impacted employee(s) in advance of making any decisions about the termination of employment, keeping in mind the employee(s) right to fair procedures.

An impacted employee should be notified that a decision has been made to implement redundancies and that their role is at risk. The reasons for this decision should be communicated clearly.

Following this, a consultation period begins with the impacted

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Employment Law clearly and refers specifically to the fact that employees have a right to notice, the right to be accompanied to any meeting, the right to respond to an employer’s decision to make their role redundant and the right to appeal any decision ultimately made. It also demonstrates that employers should always engage with employees for the purpose of considering suitable alternatives, regardless of how futile such an exercise might appear to be.

Failure to provide these rights and carry out the required steps can prove extremely costly for an employer, as this decision so clearly highlights.

Key takeaway for employers The recent Walsh decision demonstrates that now more than ever, it is important for employers to be able to demonstrate that they have followed a fair and transparent redundancy process. In particular, this Employers should always engage with employees for the purpose of considering suitable alternatives, includes being able to demonstrate that alternatives to the redundancy regardless of how futile such an exercise might appear to be. have been considered with the employees. An employer should ensure that it does not reach a employee. An employee should ideally be provided with the decision regarding the redundancies until the consultation period has opportunity to consider alternative options, including other roles. ended.

In a nutshell, an employer should not make any assumptions During the consultation period, an employer should handle about the alternatives (or lack thereof) to the redundancy, without any questions that an impacted employee might have and explore employee input, even in circumstances involving the closure or any potential alternatives to redundancy, including exploring other part closure of a business. potential roles within the organisation.

In addition to the above comments about a fair redundancy process, it is also imperative that an employer can demonstrate Alternatives to redundancy clearly that a redundancy is genuine and meets the criteria set Employers should always consider alternatives to redundancy, out in redundancy legislation. Very often it is the case that a good including whether or not there are alternative roles for the employee. starting point for any employer looking to implement a redundancy An employer is obliged to engage with these potentially impacted is to seek legal advice prior to making any key decisions. employees in a meaningful way to explore any alternatives. For If you have any queries or require any assistance in relation to this process to be considered fair, an employee must know that any of the above, please contact Barry Reynolds, Aisling Parkinson they are being considered for redundancy at the time of discussing or Chris Ryan. any alternative options, including at the point of being offered any alternative roles. If an employee suggests working on a reduced wage or even reduced hours, for example, it is vital that an employer can demonstrate that this option was considered and if not adopted as an alternative, the reasons for same should be well documented.

If there are no alternatives to redundancy or an employee refuses the offer of another role, the employee should be notified, in writing, that their role is redundant. However, it is imperative that this notification is provided to an employee at the conclusion of the redundancy consultation process only and not before.

Even in circumstances where redundancy appears inevitable and the considering of alternatives may seem futile, the Walsh ABOUT THE AUTHORS decision highlights that the exercise of considering suitable BARRY Reynolds (breynolds@dacbeachcroft.com), Aisling alternatives to redundancy is an integral feature of any fair Parkinson (aparkinson@dacbeachcroft.com) and Chris Ryan redundancy process and must be actioned regardless. (chryan@dacbeachcroft.com) of DAC Beachcroft (https:// www.dacbeachcroft.com/en/gb/locations/dublin/) are Fair and reasonable procedures specialists in employment law. This article is for general The Walsh decision is a timely reminder for employers that even information purposes only and does not comprise legal or where there is a genuine redundancy scenario arising and a fair professional advice. You should not rely on any of the material selection process has been carried out, an employee can at the in this article without seeking appropriate legal advice. very least expect to receive fair procedures that are routinely applied to any dismissal process. This is regardless of the fact Twitter: @dacbeachcroft that redundancy is inevitable and the business or even part of a LinkedIn: DAC Beachcroft Dublin business is closing down. The Walsh decision sets out these rights

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What’s New DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW WITH NORDIC SPIRIT!

NICKY: NEW DESIGN, SAME QUALITY

NORDIC Spirit are extending their mint flavour range with the addition of new Spearmint flavour, a flavour that delivers a fresh, cool sensation with a lasting impression. Nordic Spirit is now available in Spearmint, Smooth Mint & Berry Citrus, in both ‘Regular’ and ‘Strong’ nicotine strengths, and can be used any time, anywhere. Stock up now to discover your true Nordic Spirit!

BEWLEY’S ANNOUNCED AS OFFICIAL COFFEE PARTNER FOR ELECTRIC PICNIC AND KALEIDOSCOPE

NICKY continues to evolve with a new bespoke innovative design. The outside of the pack might be changing, but what’s on the inside maintains the same quality that has helped to make Nicky a household name! The new design places the shoppers at the heart of each decision. It provides only the key information to help make shopping easier - eliminating all unnecessary information, adding more value and simplicity.

SIP INTO SUMMER WITH NEW FOUR LOKO FLAVOURS

BEWLEY’S have become the official coffee partner at Electric Picnic and Kaleidoscope after agreeing a new three-year deal with Live Nation, the entertainment company behind the two summer festivals. The partnership is part of Bewley’s strategy to expand their audience base and represents a significant investment for the company, which is tripling its marketing budget over the coming years. A unique, on-site South American inspired outdoor café will bring the sights, music, flavours and culture of South America alive at both festivals.

“We are delighted to sign this contract with Live Nation as its official coffee partner at Kaleidoscope and Electric Picnic,” said Jason Doyle, Managing Director, Bewley’s, pictured with Wojciech Tysler, Barista Trainer, Bewley’s.

FOUR Loko, the US alcoholic beverage, are set to tantalise the tastebuds of Irish consumers this summer with the introduction of two vibrant new flavours, Tropical and Strawberry Lemonade, to their core range of four established flavours, including Four Loko Blue, Fruit Punch, Sour Apple and Gold. “Flavoured alcoholic beverages have been a key sub-category for some time and category growth in Ireland is being fuelled by innovation within the traditional Ready To Drink space,” noted Gina Holland, Brand Manager, Richmond Marketing. “We’re delighted to be offering new Four Loko flavours which are going to be genuinely exciting for Irish consumers, just in time for summer.” Four Loko offers its target 18–24-year-old audience the perfect at-home, unconventional, full-flavoured, ready to drink solution, in a convenient 440ml can format with an ABV of 8.5%.

‘SPIN TO WIN’ WITH AMBER LEAF ARE you ready to Spin to Win? Amber Leaf’s Limited Edition bundles are always worth the wait and staying ahead of the curve is something Amber Leaf just rolls with, which is what makes it Ireland’s number one RYO brand (Source: Nielsen extended scantrack RYO SOM 71.3% latest 4 weeks data to April 24, 2022). Stock up today on Amber Leaf Original 30g CBP or Amber Leaf Original 30g Pouch and get ready to Spin to Win instant prizes. You’ve got to be in it to spin it!

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Forecourt Focus: News

Maxol to grow support for local SMEs

Pictured are Brian Donaldson, CEO, Maxol Group; Marian O’Gorman of Champion Green; and Minister of State for Business, Employment & Retail, Damien English TD.

MAXOL have joined the Champion Green movement to demonstrate the company’s backing for SMEs and for the national campaign to support local businesses and communities.

“Irish SMEs employ over one million people in Ireland and are making a big impact in local communities right across the country.

Positive campaigns like Champion Green help to create an awareness of the strength and depth of the businesses, and their talented people working on our doorsteps,” noted Damien English TD, Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, as he announced the new partnership at a recent event.

“We are right to be proud of our local SME business community, and it is important to support them when possible,” the Minister continued. “By doing so, consumers can benefit from top class local products, services and experiences – which in turn will have a positive economic and societal effect, to benefit all who live and work in the community.”

To launch the partnership, Maxol commissioned a local Irish artist, AndyMc, to create a spectacular Champion Green mural. The piece was unveiled recently at the Maxol service station on Mespil Road in Dublin, to encourage awareness of the need to support local and shop local. It features the Champion Green butterfly motif, symbolising the country’s emergence from our Covid cocoon to once again spread our wings and successfully soar. The piece also features a woman, with an appearance of asking passers-by if they support local.

Brian Donaldson, CEO of The Maxol Group, said that as an Irish, family-owned business, Maxol is ideally positioned to both promote the Champion Green message and to practically help SMEs: “Supporting local has always been a priority for Maxol, and we recognise the role we can play in helping to rebuild local economies. Our goals are closely aligned with the Champion Green ethos and our service stations are run by local people, employing local people and serving local communities. Maxol have been around for more than 100 years and, as a national brand with a strong local presence, we have a

responsibility to support and nurture next generation Irish brands; that is a huge focus for us.

He pointed out that 65% of Maxol’s bakery and deli goods are sourced from local producers and that the company will soon be launching an initiative in partnership with Champion Green to give even more local businesses an opportunity to have their products on sale in Maxol stores around the country. “This will further promote the support local message, and will come to life in more than 70 stores within our extensive retail network,” Brian explained. “Details will be announced in the coming weeks, and we are looking forward to being able to make a tangible difference to as many local businesses as possible.”

Champion Green was the brainchild of businesswoman Marian O’Gorman, Chairperson of Kilkenny Design, whose family business has fostered numerous Irish craft and creative enterprises over 50 years.

Marian says the backing of major organisations like Maxol is crucial to both spread the Champion Green message and to practically help small business recover and thereby reinvigorate communities: “The aims of Champion Green are two-fold, and corporate backers willing to invest in sustainable communities can help us achieve them. Firstly, we encourage supporters to consciously seek out local businesses, online or in-person, and, secondly, we help SMEs to plan and market their route to recovery.”

The Champion Green campaign draws attention to the fact that almost half (46.2%) of total turnover in the private sector is down to SMEs, who also account for more than two-thirds of private sector jobs. The ‘support local’ movement was launched in June 2020 in response to the pandemic and the challenge posed to small businesses and independent traders in particular.

Small business owners can register for PR and marketing supports, as well as business advice, as part of the national Champion Green campaign. For more information, visit https://championgreen.ie/.

Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie|79

Forecourt Focus: News

Circle K partners with Jack and Jill

Braeburn coffee launches in Applegreen APPLEGREEN have recently launched their newest creation, braeburn coffee, designed to meet all coffee customers’ needs, featuring non-dairy and a range of ice coffee drinks at the touch of a button. Braeburn coffee is now available in 26 Applegreen locations, including all major motorway service stations, and will be available in 75 outlets by the end of 2022.

“Our customers seek quality, choice and innovation, which led to the development of this exceptional braeburn coffee brand,” said Kate O’Shaughnessy, Head of Marketing at Applegreen. “We developed a premium coffee offer that would elevate that on-thego coffee experience and would be accessible to all our customers - we’re truly proud to see our newest offering come to life.”

Now in their 30th year of delivering roadside retail excellence, Applegreen set out to capture the hearts of coffee lovers nationwide. The team worked with industry-leading partners to bring to life a concept that is the first of its kind in Europe. Critical to the success of this project was expanding the expertise within the business, hence, Applegreen’s Head of Coffee, Maria Cassidy,

Pictured are (l-r): Kerry football legend Paul Galvin; broadcaster Louise Duffy; Sinead Moran, Head of Nursing at Jack and Jill; Judy Glover, Senior Market Director, Circle K Ireland; and Carmel Doyle, CEO of the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation.

CIRCLE K have announced the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation as their newest brand partner. The two-year partnership will see at least €270,000 raised in much-needed funds for the charity, the equivalent of 15,000 hours of Jack and Jill’s in-home nursing care and respite support.

The new partnership launched in-store as a fundraising initiative called ‘miles for Jack and Jill’. Up to July 31, Circle K customers can show their support for the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation by simply scanning either the Circle K app or their Play or Park loyalty tag in-store when purchasing miles fuel. In doing so, they will automatically generate digital coins, which the nursing team at the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation can then use to fuel their journeys to families in need of their support in communities across Ireland. Through the campaign, Circle K are aiming to raise up to €45,000 worth of fuel for the Jack and Jill nursing team.

“We are delighted to once again extend our support to the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation and raise vital funds for the charity over the next two years,” said Judy Glover, Senior Market Director at Circle K Ireland. “The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation and its nursing team provide such an important service to many families across Ireland, and we wanted to continue making it easier than ever for our customers to donate.”

Carmel Doyle, CEO of Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, added, “We are so proud to welcome Circle K into our community of local heroes who care. With an all-time high of 400 families under our care today, this partnership couldn’t come at a better time, particularly as we mark 25 years of Jack and Jill, determined to meet the growing demand for our service.”

braeburn is a new premium coffee brand at Applegreen, offering high-quality dairy, non-dairy and iced coffee options.

one of Ireland’s leading authorities on coffee with over 20 years’ experience, joined the business in March 2021.

“The demand for high quality coffee on-the-go continues to rise and the Irish consumer is quickly becoming amongst the most discerning in Europe, so meeting that expectation for us is high on our agenda,” noted Maria.

Recent research conducted by Applegreen found that over half of Ireland’s population are buying coffee on-the-go at least once per month, with over a third buying at least one coffee per week whilst on the move. Also, throughout their research when bringing braeburn coffee to life, the team identified an opportunity for iced coffee and found a way to deliver a barista style ice coffee that doesn’t compromise on quality and adds an elevated selfserve experience with textured cold milk.

“To satisfy that demand, we are proud to be the first forecourt and convenience retailer in Ireland to offer state-of-the-art espresso machines, allowing us to deliver whipped cold milk that has a silky milkshake texture that marries perfectly with our espresso,” Maria added. “We’re seeing a surge of demand for iced coffee around the country. As we are adopting newer coffee consumers, for example Gen Z, we must adapt our offering and cater for them with a range of iced lattes, and Mochas served over ice.”

80|Retail News|June 2022|www.retailnews.ie

Shelf Life SPAR Brand Ambassador and Olympic gold medallist Kellie Harrington recently undertook a nationwide road trip to visit some of Ireland’s most deserving Community Groups as part of the innovative Spar Community Fund initiative.

Five organisations spread across Connacht, Munster and Leinster each received €2,000 in funding, bringing the total invested by Spar in Community initiatives over the last six months to €20,000. Kellie is pictured at Spartan Boxing Club, Cork, with Spartan Boxing Club’s coaches and officials, Maria O’Gorman, Paddy McSweeney, Aine McLaughlin, Therese Tobin and Stephen Hartnett.

GRENADE have launched their latest protein bar flavour, Lemon Cheesecake. Helping healthy snackers squeeze the day, each bar features a lemon and vanilla-flavoured nougat centre, topped with a zesty lemon curd caramel layer. And if that wasn’t enough, each bar is blitzed with biscuit bits and covered in smooth white chocolate.

Packing 21g protein and jjust 1.6g g sugar, g , fitness fanatics can up p their protein macros with ease, fuelling summer bodies without compromising on taste.

AN AI-driven Irish retail solutions provider and a Mexican retail chain have joined forces. Dublin based retail tech company Intouch.com and Kiosko have entered into a strategic partnership, combining Kiosko’s industry-leading retail services with Intouch.com’s world-class media network solution and Digital Out-Of-Home (DOOH) retail services.

The Intouch.com solution enables retailers to offer personalised product recommendations to shoppers inside physical retail stores.

Intouch.com expect Mexico to be their number one export market by the end of 2022 as they are currently closing a number of deals in the country and plan to open a Mexican office within the next 12 months.

Fernando Velasco, General Manager, Kiosko, and Tim Arits, CEO, Intouch.com, are pictured at the Kiosko store network, Colima, Mexico.

TESCO Mobile, Ireland’s largest virtual network operator, is expanding in response to customer demand, with the latest of its new Tesco Mobile areas now open in Tesco Artane Castle. This new Tesco Mobile fixture in Artane will increase the total number of Tesco Mobile concessions in Ireland to 41, with this latest announcement following the opening of new Mobile areas in Killarney Park, Oranmore, Longford and Cabra Tesco stores, with plans to introduce a dedicated Tesco Mobile phone shop in more Tesco stores over the coming weeks. “We’re delighted to bring Supermarket Mobile to Artane in the form of a dedicated Tesco Mobile phone shop within the Tesco store,” said Geoff Byrne, Chief Operating Officer at Tesco Ireland. “We know the network is popular amongst our customers here, so we’re pleased to give them the chance to engage face-to-face with our Mobile colleagues and better understand the offers that are right for them and their family.”

SQUARE Register raises the bar for Irish businesses with a new, comprehensive point-of-sale hardware solution. Square Register is a fully integrated countertop point-of-sale solution, designed to give Irish businesses with complex needs the versatility they need to manage sophisticated operations. This new device is designed for businesses looking for a versatile countertop POS solution that can be adapted to suit changing needs. Square Register brings together modern hardware, embedded POS software that includes delivery and online order management, and Square’s secure payment technology.

Register also runs Square’s vertical POS software, Square for Retail and Square for Restaurants.

The end-to-end solution includes a detachable customer facing display with a built-in card payment terminal. A twometre cable is also available for sellers who wish to have even more freedom with regards to their in-store setup.

ON the eve of Whiskey Live Dublin’s return, Donegal whiskey lovers took to the steps of Dáil Éireann to support the continued use of peat in production of their smoky style of Irish whiskey.

Recent news coverage has raised concerns around a ban on commercial use of peat. The northwest region, led by Sliabh Liag Distillers, has been rebuilding its reputation for this smoky style of whiskey that was once prevalent and until recently almost forgotten. For more information, see www.sliabhliagdistillers.com.

LEADING Irish soft services organisation, Momentum Support have once again secured an award at the prestigious international KimberlyClark Professional Golden Service Awards, which took place recently in London. Momentum Support received an award in recognition of the high standard of training in place across Momentum Support’s operations.

Momentum Support were also highly commended in the category of Office areas below 100,000 square feet - in recognition of Momentum Support’s work with Google at their European Headquarters in Dublin.

Pictured are (l-r): comedian Ed Byrne; Ian Anderson, Managing Director, All Ireland; Sinead Wood, Training and Organisational Development Manager; Lorraine Davis, Chairman, BICSc; and Craig Bowman, Kimberly-Clark Professional.

SIAL Paris, the global food marketplace where business begins and develops, will take place this year at Paris Nord Villepinte from October 15-19, 2022, with a focus on innovation. The event will highlight the trends rocking the food planet in 2022 and seek out the best in innovations from all over the world. The theme, Own the Change, focuses on the keys to creating tomorrow’s food, addressing expectations and initiatives all over the world. The event includes a special SIAL Innovation showcase, as well as the brand new SIAL Start Up area, while SIAL Insights/Think Tank encompasses exclusive studies on consumer expectations, product innovations, and food service trends. For more information, visit www.sialparis.com.

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This is about surprising and delighting shoppers with a fresher, healthier, more innovative offer. It’s also about bringing independent retailers a dynamic, cost effective retail offer, that delivers above average returns.

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Succulent rotisseriespun chicken, served in delicious signature sandwiches and healthy salad bowls.