Retail News May 2019

Retail News MAY 2019

Ireland’s Longest Established Grocery Magazine

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Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie|1

Contents News

Summer Sales Set to Soar SUMMER time and the living is easy?

Not for retailers, whose lives tend to be anything but easy all year-round.

That said, there are few among us who will not welcome a bit of sunshine over the coming months. Smart retailers, however, are thinking ahead and working out how to maximise profits over the summer season.

Which is where Retail News comes in, with our annual guide to the hottest products for the sunny months (Page 34-57), from sun creams to mayonnaise, as the Irish consumer embraces eating and socialising outdoors. Of course, drinks are a big part of summer socialising, so we have comprehensive features on the wine, spirits, cider and beer brands guaranteed to fly off your shelves this summer.

Given this focus on the Irish drinks market, we thought it timely to speak to Rosemary Garth, Chair of DIGI, about the development of the Irish drinks industry and what the Government can and should do to mitigate against the effects of Brexit on this valuable business sector (Page 16).

Elsewhere, we report from the TWIG Networking Lunch (Page 20), reveal the Daybreak Store of the Year award winners (Page 27), Maxol CEO Brian Donaldson explains how the forecourt giant is preparing for the future (Page 60) and Retail News Editor, John Walshe, pays tribute to one of the true greats of Irish retailing, Feargal Quinn (Page 8).

Kathleen Belton, Editorial & Marketing Director.

2

Counting the true cost of ATM thefts.

3

Chris Martin to retire as Musgrave CEO.

4

Group of Ireland and Irish Distillers’ Communications and Corporate Affairs Director.

Today’s Women in Grocery 20

3

Dunnes stays on top but all supermarkets back in growth; Google partners with EI to train SMEs.

5

New CEO at Premier Lotteries Ireland; Consumer spending returns to growth; Londis hydrates for Darkness Into Light.

6

Grocers Fun Run attracts record numbers; Plastics Action Alliance sets key targets.

7

Bord Bia tops RepTrak 2019 study; Payzone sold to AIB/First Data; Kerrygold hits €1 billion annual retail sales.

Feargal Quinn 8

Retail News Editor, John Walshe, pays tribute to the legacy of the late and very great Feargal Quinn.

16

Reducing Ireland’s alcohol excise levels is vital to protect jobs and domestic businesses against the challenging months and years ahead, argues Rosemary Garth, Chairperson of the Drinks Industry

16

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Editorial & Marketing Director:

Published by: Tara Publishing Ltd,

Kathleen Belton

kathleenbelton@retailnews.ie

14 Upper Fitzwilliam Street, Dublin 2.

Editor: John Walshe

johnwalshe@tarapublications.ie

Tel: 00353 1 6785165 Fax: 00353 1 6477127

Sales: Brian Clark

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Web: www.retailnews.ie Email: kathleenbelton@retailnews.ie

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Subscription to Retail News: e95 plus VAT

Printed by: W&G Baird

Wine Correspondent: Jean Smullen

27

Daybreak Dungarvan won both the Overall Store of The Year & the Charity Merit Award at the Daybreak Store of the Year Awards.

Eating Habits 30

Irish eating habits are shifting, as the nation chooses healthier meals, according to new research conducted by Heinz into meal habits in Ireland.

Summer Stocking 34

The Retail News guide to the hottest products for the summer season, from ice cream to sun cream, as well as wines, spirits, cider and beer. Smooch is a nationally recognised ice cream brand that you can trust to turn your store into a destination [Page 38]. Martin Food Equipment have a range of soft ice cream options for stores nationwide, including the Carpigiani ice cream machine, serving Angelito whipped ice cream, and Blizz stations custom built to fit any space (Page 40).

Forecourt Focus: Interview 60

Brian Donaldson, CEO of The Maxol Group, explains how the company is preparing for the future of fuel service.

Regulars & Reports

Managing Director: Patrick Aylward

Graphics: Catherine Doyle

Flora has reformulated its entire portfolio to become 100% plantbased.

Daybreak Store of the Year Awards

Retail News Interview

Ireland’s Longest Established Grocery Magazine

Production: Ciara Conway

24

Solus piloted the first ever autonomous delivery of light bulbs to a retail store at SuperValu Westport.

Retail News Chief News Reporter: Pavel Barter

Flora

Solus News 9

The TWIG Networking Luncheon proved a hugely impressive event for the 460 delegates who heard from a range of inspiring speakers on the theme, ‘The Power Of You’.

Email: ciara@tarapublications.ie Reproduction without written permission is strictly prohibited.

10

Industry News

19

Retail Ireland: Monthly

Update

59

What’s New

62

Forecourt Focus: News

64

Shelf Life

2|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

News

Counting the True Cost of ATM Thefts ON the morning of December 16, 2018, the small town of Ballybay in County Monaghan awoke to shock. A gang had brazenly driven a digger into the main street, ripped the town's only ATM from the wall outside a Bank of Ireland, and escaped in another vehicle.

Seamus Coyle, a Fianna Fáil councillor, describes the incident as a terrible blow for the community. “It was a week before Christmas. Ballybay is a traditional market town. Its peak period of business is that week coming into Christmas.

But there was no ATM; people couldn't get cash. Elderly people needed cash for Christmas presents. Business was lost because people travelled to other towns. When they are in other towns, they naturally do their shopping there. It was a bizarre scene for a rural town like Ballybay.”

The theft marked the early stages of a spate of ATM thefts on the island of Ireland, which have netted gangs over €700,000. While most of the raids have taken place in Northern Ireland, there have also been thefts in Kingscourt, Co. Cavan, and Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan. Last month, a criminal gang got away with over €200,000 when they robbed two ATMS in Kells, County Meath, stealing the machines and escaping in under four minutes.

According to Bryan Rankin, Head of Public Policy at Retail Councillor Seamus Coyle, Excellence, while media Fianna Fáil. coverage of these robberies is shocking, the aftermath is not reported. In the days, weeks and months after the attacks take place, small communities continue to suffer.

“Retailers are angry about how this affects their shops and food stations and the wider economic impact in towns,” Rankin told Retail News. “When this damage has been perpetrated, it shuts down the centre of a town for days. In the aftermath, there is no business done in the local shops. It has an enormous impact and it's not going to be replaced by cashless transactions. It's taking cash out of shopping.”

Small communities are reliant on ATM's, agreed Coyle. “In a traditional town like ours, cash is important. Older people, many of whom do their weekly shopping in Ballybay, like to have €20 or €50 with them when they go into a premises. They have to withdraw this from the ATM on Main Street because there's only one bank remaining in the town. There is one other ATM in the local supermarket but it's closed from 8pm, and 6pm on a Sunday.”

This amounts to a significant impact on filling stations and convenience stores. Some forecourt owners and convenience stores are now considering withdrawing their ATM services if the thefts continue. Heather Humphreys TD, Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, said in a recent interview: “There are genuine concerns amongst local communities that we are heading towards a situation where ATMs will in future

only be located inside premises and available from 9am to 6pm.”

Such a move could adversely affect local communities.

“Anything that makes cash less easy to access, when we're trying to encourage retail to move beyond the standard hours of 9-5, to reflect the way people live their lives these days, is harmful,” said Rankin. “When people don't have cash in their pockets, particularly in rural areas, it's going to impact retail.”

These thefts coincide with post office and bank branch closures in rural towns and villages around Ireland, further impacting people's access to cash. “AIB thought nothing about closing branches nationwide, as did Bank of Ireland and Ulster Bank,” said Vincent Jennings, CEO of the Convenience Stores & Newsagents Association. “ATM's in forecourts and convenience stores are filling a gap that the large banks had elected to no longer service.”

Notably, there are no 24-hour Garda stations in many border areas, from CarrickonShannon in Leitrim through to Dundalk in Louth.

Seamus Coyle, however, does not Bryan Rankin, Head of Public Policy at Retail believe Excellence. policing was to blame for the Ballybay incident: “Ballybay is up to its full quota of Garda - we have five [officers]. But these criminals just seem to appear at that dark hour and disappear within minutes.

The job is done within four to five minutes.”

Bryan Rankin noted comments from the PSNI: “They said

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News that even if you had a station on every corner, you still couldn't guarantee this wouldn't be done. In the Republic, the criminals are putting obstacles across the road. These criminals are well prepared and think though their attacks carefully.”

Can retailers do anything to prevent the attacks? While many filling stations have high standards of CCTV and security, there is little they can do to combat a construction digger at 4am. One filling in station in Co. Derry recently stacked concrete blocks on either side of its ATM to protect it from thieves. Even this may not be a viable solution.

“Insurers would probably complain it is an unauthorised structure,” remarked Jennings. “You may well have the planning office onto you. But at least the forecourt owner is trying to meet the needs of the community.”

Rankin called for construction business owners to do more to prevent criminals from stealing their machinery. The primary responsibility, however, falls on the banking system. The Gardaí have called on banks to place dye mechanisms, similar to those in cash-transit vans, inside ATM's. The CSNA also called for the introduction of anti-tilt devices in cash machines. “The minute the machine is tampered with, the paint explodes, invalidating the money, “ suggested Jennings. “There is an obligation on providers to ensure such a deterrent.”

Earlier this month, the Secretary General of the Department of Justice met with representatives of the banks and the Gardaí “and were briefed on security measures and operations that banks have in place to counter ATM thefts”, a Department spokesperson told Retail News.

The spokesperson did not comment on the specific measures, but “Minister Flanagan is satisfied there is good cooperation” between the Gardaí and banks. “There also remains

strong, ongoing co-operation between An Garda Síochána and the PSNI in tackling this form of criminality and identifying those responsible for these crimes on both sides of the border,” the spokesperson insisted.

In midFebruary, the ATM machine in Ballybay was Vincent Jennings, CEO, CSNA. finally replaced.

Locals were happy with the response from Bank of Ireland in the aftermath of the attack, according to Councillor Coyle. “They opened the branch within 24 hours and remained open on the Saturday and Sunday, prior to Christmas, from 10am to 6pm in the evening.

The community also rallied around and installed a number of card machines in local shops and pubs.”

But the local community was nevertheless traumatised.

“The business community, customers, retailers, are the real victims here,” said Coyle. “This is not a victimless crime.”

Chris Martin To Retire As Musgrave CEO CHRIS Martin is set to retire as CEO of Musgrave Group plc after 14 years at the helm, which saw him guide Musgrave through the recession to today, where SuperValu, Centra and MarketPlace have achieved record turnover, as well as the acquisition of key brands like Superquinn, La Rousse Foods and Donnybrook Fair, and the establishment of new brands such as Frank and Honest.

“After 14 years as Musgrave Group CEO Chris Martin CEO, I will be announced he is to retire. retiring from Musgrave and moving onto my next chapter,” Martin noted.

“Musgrave has been an important part of my life and I have

had the privilege of working with exceptional colleagues, world class retailers and supportive shareholders. Through our purpose of Growing Good Business, we have worked together to build brands that are set up for long term sustainable growth and we have created a business that people can be proud of and which contributes significantly to local communities. I am now working with the Board to provide a seamless transition.”

Commenting, Musgrave Chairman, Nicky Hartery, said: “I would like to thank Chris for his exceptional leadership as CEO and his unstinting commitment to Musgrave over the past 14 years. He has led the growth of outstanding grocery and foodservice brands which are now in leadership positions in one of the most competitive markets internationally. Chris was instrumental in the development of our purpose, Growing Good Business, which forms a lasting foundation for the future success of the business. He leaves the business in good shape with SuperValu and Centra both achieving record sales in 2018. On behalf of the Board and everyone at Musgrave, I wish Chris every success with his future plans. The Board has commenced a succession process and following an orderly transition, Chris will step down from the business.”

Meanwhile, Musgrave announced results for the financial year ended December 29, 2018, with turnover up 3.8% to €3.9 billion and profit before tax of €84.5m, a 5.6% increase on the previous year and the fourth year in a row of increased profit. Net assets were €410m, an increase of €79m on 2017 and the business ended the year with net cash of €16m.

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News Dunnes Stays on Top but All Supermarkets Back in Growth SALES in the Irish grocery market hit record levels as shoppers maintain increasing sales, considering at this time last year it splashed out €208.2m in Easter week alone, helping the was growing at 6.2%,” said Faughnan. “Tesco’s own label offer overall sector grow by 4.1% in the 12 weeks to April 21, now accounts for 47% of its sales and is increasing at 4.3%, 2019, according to the latest figures from Kantar. Meanwhile, boosting the retailer’s overall performance.”

SuperValu’s return to growth means all the major retailers SuperValu’s return to growth this period was bolstered are once again on an upward trajectory, with Dunnes taking by a robust performance in fresh food. Fresh lamb, fish and the crown of the nation’s largest grocer for the eighth consecutive period.

“With both the St Patrick’s Total Take Home Grocery - Ireland Consumer Spend Day Bank Holiday and the Easter weekend giving shoppers cause 12 Weeks to 22 Apr 2018 12 Weeks to 21 Apr 2019 change** %* %* % for celebration over the past 12 weeks, there have been plenty Total Grocers 100.0% 100.0% 4.1 of excuses for people to get in Total Multiples 88.4% 88.8% 4.6 store and spend,” noted Douglas SuperValu 22.2% 21.4% 0.6 Faughnan, Consumer Insight Tesco 22.1% 21.8% 2.8 Director at Kantar. “Shopper Dunnes 21.8% 22.2% 6.1 visits to the major retailers grew Lidl 11.3% 11.5% 5.7 by 1.3% on last year, yielding Aldi 11.1% 11.9% 11.9 Other Outlets** 11.6% 11.2% 0.7 an additional €28.7m of value.

Consumers spent a total of *= Percentage Share of Total Grocers €44m on Easter eggs leading **= Includes stores such as M&S, Boots, Spar, Centra, Greengrocers, Butchers And Cross Border shops up to Easter Sunday, while fresh lamb, a traditional favourite, generated €29m.” beef sales were up by 13.2%, 12.8% and 11% respectively, Dunnes posted sales growth of 6.1% on its way to retaining underpinning the retailer’s reputation as a traditionally strong the number one position – the highest increase the retailer performer among Easter dinner staples. has seen since November 2016. “Dunnes has continued Aldi and Lidl, while continuing to perform strongly in to push towards premium items through its Simply Better Dublin, are making major gains outside of the capital as well. collection and partnerships with specialists like James Whelan Douglas Faughnan comments: “Growth of 18% for Aldi in Butchers and Sheridans Cheesemongers,” Faughnan stated. the Connaught and Ulster region was the strongest increase “Encouragingly for Dunnes, shoppers appear to be happy to recorded by any retailer in any one region, while Lidl’s 13% spend more in-store. The average price paid at the retailer is growth in Munster makes it the fastest growing grocer in the up 1.9% on last year, generating an extra €10m in sales.” southern provinces.”

Tesco’s growth of 2.8% is its strongest of the year so far.

Grocery market inflation stands at 2.6% for the 12-week “It’s all the more impressive that the retailer has managed to period ending April 21, 2019.

Google Partners with EI to Train SMEs GROW with Google is a new programme which will see the company train more than 8,000 Irish SMEs to acquire the right digital skills to embrace new opportunities ahead through workshops across Ireland and through partnerships with state agencies, including Enterprise Ireland.

“Our common objective is to work with Irish companies so they can grow and create new jobs in local communities throughout Ireland. And ensuring businesses and their employees have access to digital tools and training is critical to delivering on it. Our Grow with Google programme has already trained more than 2m people in digital skills across the EU and we are committed to ensuring Irish people and companies are at the forefront of digital,” said Cera Ward, Country Manager, Large Customer Sales UK & Ireland, Google.

Pictured are (l-r): Cera Ward, Country Manager, Large Customer Sales UK & Ireland, Google; Marie Davis, Head of Google Customer Solutions Ireland; Jonathan McMillan, Head of the Brexit Unit, Enterprise Ireland.

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News New CEO at Premier Lotteries Ireland PREMIER Lotteries Ireland (PLI), the operator of the National Lottery, is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrew Algeo as Chief Executive Officer. This follows a rigorous search process to replace Dermot Griffin, who announced earlier in the year his intention to step down. It is anticipated that Andrew will take up the role on June 17, 2019.

Algeo, 48, has had an accomplished career in business and was, until recently, adviser at Ryanair, where he oversaw a commercial reorientation programme. He is also part of the group advising the Department of Justice on its current transformation.

He was previously Managing Director of Commercial & Risk at Paddy Power.

PLI’s Chairman, Padraig Ó Ríordáin, said: “We are delighted to have attracted a leader of Andrew’s ability and experience. Andrew comes with a wealth of expertise which makes him an ideal choice to lead the National Lottery through the next phase of its development and deliver on our objective of further increasing the amounts we raise for good causes.”

Andrew Algeo, incoming CEO of Premier Lotteries Ireland.

Incoming CEO, Andrew Algeo, said, “I have long admired the National Lottery and its progress.

The substantial funding which the National Lottery provides In the first three months of the year, over €288m in prizes to exemplary causes and their inspirational people improves has been paid out and shared by over 10.5m winners, large society for all of us. So I am delighted to have the opportunity and small. Included in these numbers are 10 participants who to work as part of the National Lottery team to deliver future became instant millionaires through life-changing wins on success in what is a fast-changing market."

Lotto, Daily Millions and EuroMillions draws. The biggest win of Meanwhile, figures released by the National Lottery the year so far was the record breaking €175.4m EuroMillions have revealed record breaking figures for prizes paid out to jackpot, which was won by the ‘Naul Family Syndicate’ in participants in the National Lottery in the first quarter of 2019.

February.

Consumer Spending Returns to Growth VISA’S Irish Consumer Spending Index, produced by IHS Markit, which measures expenditure across all payment types (cash, cheques and electronic payments), signalled a positive end to the first quarter of 2019 with regards to consumer spending. Household expenditure was up +2.7% year-on-year in March, after having ticked down in

February (-0.6%).

The return to growth of overall expenditure mainly reflected signs of revival on the high street, with face-toface expenditure up for the first time since last October (+2% year-on-year). The food and beverages, sector, however, recorded a 1.7% decline in spending.

Londis Hydrates for Darkness Into Light LONDIS retailers teamed up with Pieta House to ensure those taking part in this year’s Darkness into Light 5km walk on Saturday, May 11, were kept well hydrated by providing water at 115 venues around Ireland. Each year, the annual Darkness into Light walk provides an opportunity for people to connect with their local community and to show their support for those who have been bereaved by suicide. Londis has worked with Pieta House for several years, raising funds through a variety of events for their official charity partner.

Marie Peelo, Deputy Director of Funding & Advocacy at Pieta House, gratefully accepts water from Londis retailers Seamus Griffin, Griffin’s Londis Group; Barry Gillen, Londis Dublin Road, Trim; Jonathan Gillan, Londis, Phoenix Park Racecourse, Castleknock; and Londis Sales Director, Conor Hayes.

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News Grocers Fun Run Attracts Record Numbers THE third annual Grocers Fun Run in aid of the Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund (IGBF) took place on April 28 in the Phoenix Park, Dublin. Sponsored by Keelings, National Lottery, LR Suntory, Mondelez and Tayto it was a phenomenally well supported Fun Run, attracting more than 1,200 runners.

This Family Fun Run is now an established date in the diary for people working across retail but also the wider audience and general public who enjoy fun run events.

“The event is growing from strength to strength and the buzz and energy on the day was incredible,” remarked IGBF Chairperson, Leonard Hegarty. “It’s great to see both suppliers and retailers breaking bread together and supporting such a great charity . The IGBF supports over 200 families and this event is all about family.”

This year’s President of Appeals, Kari Daniel, Tesco Ireland CEO, stated, “I was thrilled to see so many from the grocery industry and their families involved in this year’s run; it keeps getting bigger and better every year, creating a new audience for the IGBF. Raising €25,000 in one day is a tremendous achievement and I know it will go a long way to provide much needed support for families and individuals who need our help.

A very big thank you to the sponsors, corporate partners and the team behind the event; well done to all.”

Chairman of the Grocers Fun Run committee, Joe Wogan from BWG Foods, said “We are delighted with the turn out but more importantly with the support from both suppliers and retail groups within the trade. Companies like Tesco, PepsiCo,

Pictured at the Grocers Fun Run 2019 are Joe Wogan, BWG Foods, Chairman of Grocers Fun Run, and Nicola De Beer, FMI. Heineken, JDE, Mars Ireland, Britvic Ireland, Keogh's Crisps, Deli Fance, Good Snack Co., Brennans, Manor Farm, Fulfill and Good for U have all generously contributed to make the event memorable. We are truly grateful to all the sponsors and the support of FMI who helped organise on the day.”

New for this year was a corporate team event, which was won by JDE coffee, and the plan is to make this team event an integral part of the event going forward.

Plastics Action Alliance Sets Key Targets PLASTICS Action Alliance, the recently formed Group that comprises of 11 leading agricultural processing and food businesses in Ireland, have set out their key objectives as they aim to significantly reducing the use of plastic packaging across their operations.

The key objectives for members of the Plastics Action Alliance are: • To reduce both the use and quantity of plastic packaging without compromising on quality, shelf life and consumer experience; • To eliminate unnecessary single use plastics from everyday activities across all member sites by the end of 2020 – water bottles, straws coffee cups etc; • No longer use PVC in packaging where viable alternatives exist with the required functionality by the end of 2020; • Ensure a 30% average recycled content across all plastic packaging by the end of 2025; • Use cardboard packaging that is certified PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement) or FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) by end of 2020; • Proactively search for new materials from renewable sources; • Redesign packaging to reduce the amount of plastic in each pack; • Eliminate problematic or unnecessary single-use plastic packaging through improved design, innovation or alternative renewable options by 2025; • All plastic packaging will be reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025; • No packaging waste from any participant sites will go to landfill by the end of 2020.

The Plastics Action Alliance, including independent Chairman Aidan Cotter (centre), has set out its key objectives.

“It is important to demonstrate that we have a real and binding commitment to the reduction of the use of plastic across our member companies, who are leaders in their respective fields in Ireland,” noted Aidan Cotter, the independent Chairman of the Plastics Action Alliance.

“The objects we have set are a tangible demonstration that the Alliance intends to take meaningful action, with the introduction of further sustainable processes across their businesses. Some of the objectives we have set are ambitious, but we are confident that they will be met.”

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News Bord Bia Tops RepTrak 2019 Study BORD Bia came out on top of the annual Ireland RepTrak 2019 study, the largest and longest running study of reputation in Ireland, now celebrating its tenth year. Based on the perceptions of over 7,000 members of the public who completed the survey across January and February 2019, the survey measures the level of trust, respect, admiration and esteem the public has for 100 of the largest, most familiar, and most important organisations in Ireland, along with 25 other reputation indicators.

“A strong reputation increases support and delivers positive business results, while helping to win customers, attract the right talent, and gain support from key stakeholders,” said Niamh Boyle, Managing Director, The Reputations Agency. “It’s driven by the touchpoints that stakeholders have with organisation – their direct experiences, what organisations communicate and what others say about these organisations.”

Bord Bia took the top spot overall as the most reputable organisation in Ireland, with an Excellent Reputation Pulse score of 83.5 for their role in developing international markets for Irish food, drink and horticulture.

Tara McCarthy, CEO of Bord Bia, commented: “We’re very proud to have topped the Ireland RepTrak study for 2019. Bord Bia’s reputation is a reflection of the outstanding reputation enjoyed by Irish farmers, food producers and manufacturers.

Bord Bia, for its part, will continue to drive the success and reputation of the agri-food industry through our insight-led approach, our commitment to developing talent and through the ongoing development of the Origin Green programme.”

Kellogg’s was the highest FMCG brand in the study, in seventh position, while Aldi was the highest performing

retailer, in eighth, the third year in a row that Aldi has seized the top spot, emphasising the trust Irish consumers have in Aldi’s brand.

Welcoming the survey, Giles Hurley, CEO, Aldi UK & Ireland, said: “This award is testament to the countless hours of hard work put in by our staff Pictured are Niamh Boyle, across the country and Managing Director, The their dedication to providing Reputations Agency, and Tara the very best shopping McCarthy, CEO of Bord Bia. experience for all Aldi customers. Irish shoppers trust the Aldi brand to always provide the best quality products at the lowest prices possible.

“Our reputation spans much farther than our shopping aisles, and we take great pride in the impact our CR projects have had in communities across the country. Our partnerships with FoodCloud, the Aldi Community Games, the Irish Cancer Society and Foróige have made a huge difference at both a national and local level.”

Of the 17 sectors studied this year, the Retail Food sector continued to top the sectoral ranking for the second year in a row, with a strong sectoral Pulse score of 71.7 demonstrating the continued investment by the main players in reputation building strategies in a hugely competitive consumer facing sector.

Payzone Sold to AIB & First Data PAYZONE, one of Ireland’s largest providers of payment solutions, is to be acquired by a newly-formed joint venture established

by AIB Group plc (AIB) and First Data Corporation. The joint venture will acquire a majority stake in Payzone from existing shareholders, including Carlyle Cardinal Ireland Fund (CCI), for an value of up to €100m. The change in ownership will have no impact on the day-to-day business operations of Payzone in Ireland. The senior management team, including Jim Deignan,

CEO, and Nigel Bell, CFO, will remain in their roles.

“This development is a positive step for Payzone and a vote of confidence in the future of the business,” said Jim Deignan, Chief Executive, Payzone Ireland. “We see significant opportunity to grow our footprint in the fintech sector and this can only be enhanced further with the backing and support of our new shareholders, who bring deep industry expertise to make things happen.”

Jim Deignan, Chief Executive, Payzone Ireland.

Kerrygold Hits €1 Billion Annual Retail Sales KERRYGOLD has become the first irish food brand to exceed €1 billion annual retail value. Unveiling the news, Minister for Agriculture, Food & the Marine, Michael Creed TD, said: “The Kerrygold brand is an amazing asset for Irish dairy farmers and its promotion of Ireland’s unique grass-fed credentials has been instrumental in enhancing Ireland’s reputation around the world as a sustainable food producer.

Reaching this milestone is a significant achievement for Kerrygold, and Ornua, who have not only contributed economically to Ireland but have also played their part in supporting our vibrant rural community and building opportunities in markets all over the world.”

“While Kerrygold holds a unique place in the hearts of the Irish people, we are especially proud that the brand has captured the hearts and imagination of consumers all over the world,” noted Róisín Hennerty, Managing Director, Ornua Foods. “The future is bright for Kerrygold – our unique connection to our consumers, Pictured are John Jordan, Chief Executive of Ornua, and Róisín Hennerty, coupled with our way of farming and our members’ expertise, will drive the next Managing Director, Ornua. generation of success.”

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Feargal Quinn

A Sad Day for Irish Grocery Retail News Editor, John Walshe, pays tribute to the legacy of the late and very great Feargal Quinn.

Everyone at Retail News was saddened to learn of the death of Feargal Quinn.

The former Superquinn founder and Senator was the best known face of the Irish grocery industry for entire generations of consumers. He retained a keen interest in the market he helped to shape long after his retirement from the supermarket sector in 2005, when he sold his beloved Superquinn group.

Indeed, as recently as June 2017, he contributed a wonderful article to Retail News’ 60th birthday edition, looking at the changing face of the grocery business, displaying as keen an eye as he ever did when at the helm of Superquinn – he even emailed me weeks afterwards to congratulate us on our anniversary issue.

Going back even further, I remember interviewing Feargal back in the 1990s, not in any fancy boardroom or corporate suite, but on the shopfloor of Superquinn Finglas, where the supermarket boss was at his happiest, shaking hands and chatting to customers as they did their weekly shop – it made writing up the subsequent tape challenging, as our interview was interrupted every couple of minutes by a shopper keen to chat to the Superquinn chief or just shake his hand.

A Retail Revolutionary Feargal Quinn revolutionised Irish grocery retailing, realising that by treating the customer as king, you were gaining something that no amount of money could buy, loyalty.

He opened his first grocery store in Dundalk in 1960, branding his burgeoning retail empire as Superquinn in 1969. The Superquinn name became synonymous with quality, as Quinn reflected the business lesson learned from his father, ‘the boomerang principle’, which stressed that the key to any successful business is to get the customer to return.

Indeed, he wrote a book on the subject, entitled Crowning The Customer, in which Quinn espoused the principle on which Superquinn was founded - exceptional customer service.

Crowning the Customer was praised by everyone from Sir Terry Leahy, Tesco CEO, to Donald Keough, President of the Coca-Cola Company, for its jargon free approach to customer service and became a handbook for generations of businesspeople right across the world.

Of course, Superquinn was about more than simply customer service, and was responsible for many landmark innovations in Irish retail, including self-service

scanners, the prevalence of in-store bakeries and of course, the Superquinn sausage.

A Visionary in Irish Food When Superquinn was sold to Select Retail Holdings in 2005, Quinn had grown the group to 21 stores, which are now part of SuperValu, having been bought by Musgrave Group in 2011.

Chris Martin, CEO, Musgrave Group, said: “We are saddened to hear of the passing of Feargal Quinn. As the founder of Superquinn, Feargal was a visionary in Irish food and a retail pioneer. Beyond the world of retail, Feargal made a significant and lasting contribution to Irish society and to political life as a member of Seanad Eireann. He was a leader who will be deeply missed. Feargal was also a good friend to Musgrave and on behalf of everyone here, I would like to share our condolences with his family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.”

Myself, Kathleen and all at Retail News would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the Quinn family and Feargal’s former colleagues and friends on the loss of a true giant of the Irish business world, a gentleman through and through, who was always generous with his time.

Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie|9

Solus News Solus Pilot Ireland’s First Retail Drone Delivery to SuperValu Westport LEADING Irish lighting company, Solus, demonstrated that, once again, they are light years ahead as they piloted the first ever autonomous delivery of light bulbs to a retail store. Former Miss World, Rosanna Davison joined Mark Kavanagh, Marketing Director of the Kavanagh Group, and David Reynolds, Sales and Marketing Director of Solus, to receive the first ever retail drone delivery of Solus light bulbs to SuperValu in Westport. Solus piloted the drone delivery experiment to be the first lighting company to use autonomous technology to carry out a retail delivery, thus lighting the way to the future.

The drone delivery to SuperValu in Westport took place in near perfect weather conditions and the box contained 30 candle bulbs from the very latest premium XCross Filament LED range. The Kavanagh Group, headquartered in Westport, is now Ireland's largest independent supermarket retail company, with 16 supermarkets across Ireland and Britain, including nine Solus piloted the first ever drone delivery of light bulbs to a retail store, with the SuperValu stores in the Republic of Ireland, delivery to SuperValu Westport. two in Northern Ireland and five Budgens stores in the UK. “We are always looking for new and innovative ways to improve our service and retail autonomous deliveries are already being tested across the world, so why not here in Ireland?” said David Reynolds, Sales and Marketing Director of Solus. “The Kavanagh Group provide their customers with the best possible quality and service and we share this mission.”

Solus is an Irish owned company that has been established for over 80 years, now supporting 63 jobs in Ireland and selling one light bulb every six seconds. Solus has a proud Irish heritage of innovation and forward thinking that has guided the brand for the last 80 years. Solus has been at the forefront of technology and lighting in Irish homes since electricity was first

Leading Irish lighting company Solus launched their pioneering new Customer Lighting Experience in SuperValu Westport with Managing Director Noel Kavanagh Jnr and Sales Director Mark Kavanagh of the Kavanagh Group, joined by Former Miss World Rosanna Davison and Sales and Marketing Manager David Reynolds from Solus. This marks the exclusive roll out of the Solus Customer Lighting Experience across the Kavanagh Group.

Former Miss World Rosanna Davison, pictured with Mark Kavanagh, Sales Director of the Kavanagh Group (left) and David Reynolds (right), Sales and Marketing Manager, Solus.

introduced in 1935.

Today, the company is a strong as ever and continues to place innovation and UX at the heart of their business. Solus continues to make advances in the 21st century, bringing new innovations and smart technologies into the everchanging Irish home. Solus invests heavily into research and development and UX design is a top priority within the new Solus Energy Lab, which has been set up to meet and exceed expectations of customers and retailers for enhanced LED products, packaging and the new in-store Customer Lighting Experience.

10|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Industry News Fresh Shortlisted for World Retail Award FRESH the Good Food Market’s Camden Street store in Dublin has been shortlisted

for the 2019 World Retail Awards in the ‘Outstanding Store Design’ (‹1200 square metre) category. Competition is very strong, with 11 finalists selected from retailers in the UK, Austria, China, Singapore, Philippines, Japan, and the USA, joining Fresh, the only Irish retailer in the shortlist. The Awards will be one of the highlights of the 13th edition of World Retail Congress, which will be hosted in Amsterdam from May 14-16, highlighting the many examples of innovation, creativity and world-class retailing that can be found right across the retail industry. Noel Smith, Founder and Managing Director of Fresh The Good Food Market, said, “We are honoured once again to have been shortlisted for such a major global award. It is a fantastic recognition of the work our team put in to create great experiences for our customers in-store. We are delighted to be representing Ireland on the world stage.”

Aldi Colour Dash Launched THE most colourful event in the Irish Cancer Society’s fundraising calendar is back for 2019: Colour Dash sponsored by Aldi Ireland.

Irish television and radio presenter Lisa Cannon, whose mum died from cancer, braved the cold weather at Sandymount beach to urge dashers of all ages to inject some colour into summer 2019 and sign-up for one of four colour-soaked 5K fun runs.

The four runs will take place in the National University of Ireland Galway Campus, Galway, on June 9, University of Limerick Campus, Limerick, on June 15, Atlantic Pond, Páirc Uí Chaoimh, Cork, on June 16, and Phoenix Park, Dublin, on June 23. As ‘dashers’ run, jog and walk the course, at each kilometre, they are doused from head to toe in a different colour of powder paint, representing a different type of cancer and cancer survivorship. Pictured at the launch are Caoimhe O’Callaghan, Aldi Ireland, and TV presenter, Lisa Cannon. For more information, see www.cancer.ie/colourdash.

Musgrave MarketPlace Donates Over 550k Meals to FoodCloud MUSGRAVE MarketPlace recently announced that since 2016 it has donated over 550,000 meals to charities in Ireland through its partnership with FoodCloud. This donation equates to 250 tonnes of food and a saving of €750,000 to Irish charities. Through its food donations, that would otherwise have been diverted to landfill, Musgrave Marketplace has prevented over 800,000 kilos of CO2 emissions from entering the earth’s atmosphere and damaging the environment. As food waste is a huge contributor to climate change, Musgrave Marketplace is committed to doing everything possible to build a more sustainable future and its partnership with FoodCloud is a key focus for the business. Pictured are Anthony Nolan, General Manager, Musgrave MarketPlace Sallynoggin; Aoibheann O’Brien, Co-founder, FoodCloud; Catherine Lambe, Human Resources Director, Musgrave MarketPlace; and Padraig Doran, General Manager, Musgrave MarketPlace Robinhood.

Tesco Sponsors Flavours of Fingal TESCO has become the main sponsor of Flavours of Fingal 2019, the flagship summer event hosted by Fingal County Council, which has attracted tens of thousands of people through the gates since 2012. Taking place on June 29 and 30 at Newbridge House and Farm, Donabate, this family friendly festival is synonymous with food, farming and fabulous sunny days. “It really is a wonderful celebration of our farming community and all that is good about life in North County Dublin,” noted Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Anthony Lavin, pictured (second from left) with Mary Godwin, Fingal County Council; Gary Redmond, store manager, Tesco Holywell; and Ursula Chivers of Tesco.

Rob Kearney the ‘Face of Crazy Hair Day’ for CMRF Crumlin IRISH rugby legend and CMRF Crumlin ambassador Rob Kearney has been announced as the ‘Face of Crazy Hair Day’ for CMRF Crumlin. CMRF raises vital funds for CHI Crumlin and the National Children’s Research Centre. Crazy Hair Day launched in primary schools across Ireland from April 24 and aims to raise €30,000 for some of Ireland’s sickest children.

Rob, who has been a CMRF Crumlin ambassador for over five years, is encouraging teachers and students to set up a Crazy Hair Day fundraiser in their school in aid of CMRF Crumlin.

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR TRACK & TRACE? Track and Trace Timeline

20th May All cigarettes and roll-your-own tobacco manufactured from this date must use the Track & Trace system and will require a Unique Identifier code. Products manufactured before this date can be sold over the next 12 months.

20th May

20th May

The end of the 12-month sellthrough period for non-Track & Trace products. Only cigarette and roll-your-own products that comply with Track & Trace requirements can be sold from this date.

What do retailers need to do?

Before 20th May 2019: You will need to register with the ID issuer and apply for: • An Economic Operator ID code • A separate Facility ID code for each premises that: - sells tobacco products to the public - stores tobacco products Codes will be free of charge and can be requested from www.idissuer.ie from the first week of May.

From 20th May 2024, Track & Trace will extend to all other tobacco products (such as pipe tobacco and cigars).

JTI is here to help you prepare for Track & Trace “JTI’s nationwide team of sales representatives is on hand to support you in implementing Track & Trace in your business.”

Derek Mooney JTI Ireland Sales Director

From 20th May 2019:

For more information

You will need to provide Economic Operator and Facility ID codes when purchasing tobacco products marked with Track & Trace Unique Identifier codes.

Speak to your JTI contact, call 01 404 0240, email customerservices.ireland@jti.com or visit jti.com/ireland

12|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Industry News Gala Launches Family Fun Holiday Promotion GALA Retail is launching a huge holiday giveaway in-stores with its ‘Gala Family Fun’ promotion.

Building on the success and popularity of its European Breaks giveaway last year, the group will be giving Gala customers even more chances to win a getaway with Gala. The Gala Family Fun competition is offering Gala customers the chance to win a trip to five terrific destinations, including Disneyland, Florida; EuroDisney, Paris; Lego Land, UK; the Algarve in Portugal and the soon to open Centerparcs in Longford. Running in store from May to July, customers who spend €10 or more in one transaction will be given a stamp on a Gala passport. Once 10 stamps have been collected, the customer returns their ‘Gala Passport’ to Gala HQ where it will be entered into a prize draw for a chance to win one of the five incredible holidays on offer. For more information, see www.gala.ie.

FA M I LY

H FUN WIT re in store & * Spend €10 or mosport stamped get your Gala Pas

Solid 2018 Performance

CARBERY Group, the West Cork based international ingredients company, has reported a solid financial performance for the year ended December 31, 2018. Celebrating 50 years of production in 2018, Carbery Group’s turnover for the year was up 1.5% (+2.9% on a constant currency basis) to €423.5m from €417.3m in the previous year.

While operating profit before interest, tax, amortisation and exceptional items was €32.4, up from €31m in 2017, an increase of 4.5% (+10.6 % on a constant currency basis). Jason Hawkins, Chief Executive Officer, Carbery Group (pictured), commented that the positive business results reflected the strong trading performance across all three of Carbery’s key business platforms of Dairy, Taste and Nutrition: “Despite some difficult farming conditions throughout the first half of 2018, milk supply from our farmers increased by 5%, continuing our consistent growth of milk supply. Each of our businesses performed in line with our expectations, allowing us to continue to pay a leading milk price to our shareholders, while also extending support payments for longer periods to support farmers through the severe weather conditions at the start of 2018.” Carbery Group plan to invest €100m over the next two years, including a new mozzarella production facility.

ORLANDO

* Collect 10 for Entry to Draw & send to Gala HQ 5 Fantastic

1 of for a chance to WIN Holidays.

EURO DISNEY

L SUN HOLIDAY - PORTUGA

LEGOL

AND UK

* Family holiday to Orlando * Euro Disney * LEGOLAND UK

CENTERPARC - IRELAND

* Sun holiday - Portugal * Centerparc – Ireland

GALA.ie

Carbery Group Reports

DISNEY

port stamps on Gala pass

@GALA_Retail

Keane on First Irish Strawberries ISPCC Ambassadors Robbie and Claudine Keane officially launched Keelings first Irish strawberries of the season, at Keelings’ Farm Shop, in St. Margaret’s, Co. Dublin, recently. To celebrate the start of the Irish strawberry season, Keelings hosted the First Irish Harvest Festival in support of ISPCC Childline on April 13 and 14.

“As a father and a businessman, I am very happy to be able to give something back to this wonderful charity, and I hope that our association with ISPCC Childline proves to be very positive for them and their fundraising efforts,” said David Keeling, Managing Director, Keelings, pictured (second from left) with John Church, CEO, ISPCC, and Robbie and Claudine Keane.

SuperValu Getaway Breaks to

Generate €8m for Irish Hotels

APPROXIMATELY 80,000 Irish tourists are forecast to take a staycation and generate approximately €8m in revenue this year for hotels through SuperValu Getaway Breaks, the Irish grocery retailer’s discounted hotel break brand. 2019 marks the 20th anniversary of SuperValu Getaway Breaks, with the initiative proving highly popular since its inception as participating hotels are able to reach an audience of over 1m customers a month for free. To mark its 20th anniversary, SuperValu Getaway Breaks has launched a variety of exciting new campaigns this year, including its big Anniversary Sale and Gourmet Getaways, which offers customers a gourmet dining experience at some of Ireland’s best hotels at a fraction of the usual cost.

Deli-Lites Awarded AA Food Safety Rating

LEADING Northern Ireland food-to-go company, Deli-Lites Ireland, has earned the coveted AA Food Safety Rating certification from the British Retail Consortium, an accreditation body for Global Food Safety Initiative certifications. It’s the fourth consecutive year the firm has achieved the highest achievable BRC standard. “We have always been serious about food safety and quality and consider it as part of the company culture. We’re exceptionally proud to be one of only a few food companies in Northern Ireland to achieve this platinum standard,” noted CEO, Brian Reid. Deli-Lites Quality Manager, Clare Herron; Technical Manager, Cathal McDonnell; and Technical Administrator, Bethany Kyle, are pictured receiving the company’s AA Food Safety Rating certification from the British Retail Consortium.

Stock up on delicious with a whole family of flavour from Moy Park.

To celebrate their totally tasty, crunch-coated chicken, Moy Park are taking their breaded favourites on the road as part of the Marvellous Taste Tour.

Chicken-devotees can sample the gloriously golden chicken for themselves during their flavour-filled tour of the island of Ireland.

As if this isn’t exciting enough, Moy Park are also giving customers the chance to win one of five foodie road trips in Ireland. For a limited time, they can pick up selected packs in store and follow the instructions to win. With flavour in motion all over Ireland, Moy Park Chicken is sure to fly off the shelves.

Stock up today.

Masterfully crafted. Marvellously tasty. moyparkchicken.com

Contact our commercial team now:

+44 (0) 28 3835 2233

14|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Industry News Cadbury Kicks Off Premier League Competition AS the Premier League came to a dramatic close, Cadbury is kicking off its second end-ofseason promotion. The ‘You’re off’ campaign, created by BD Network, will see the notorious ‘red card’ in football been given a ‘Cadbury twist’, offering consumers the chance to be sent off with a gold card - on a Cadbury FC holiday with a Premier League experience. There are five holidays up for grabs, including a trip to Australia to watch Man United play Perth Glory and to Singapore to see Tottenham Hotspur play in their pre-season tour. Shoppers will also be in with the chance of winning 50 pairs of Premier League tickets for the 2019/20 season, alongside football-themed goodies including key-rings and drawstring bags. To enter, Cadbury consumers simply need to visit the bespoke ‘You’re Off’ website at youreoff.cadburyfc.com and type in the barcode of the product that they have bought for the chance to win. ‘You’re off’ promotion will run from the end of May until July 14.

UK 18+. Promotion Period: 29/04/19 – 07/06/19. Purchase necessary (excluding NI). Internet access required. Purchase a Participating Product, visit www.cadburyfc.com/youreoff and enter your barcode on the back of pack for a chance to win. Prizes: Tier 1: 1 of 5 holidays (an international trip with 3 friends including an experience with Premier League). Tier 2: 1 of 50 PL tickets for 2019/20 PL season (no guarantee of match/team). Tier 3: PL goodies (valued at a maximum £5) .1 entry per week, per person, per email. 1 prize per person per tier. Tier 1 prize to be won via weekly prize draws (first prize draw on 10/05/19). Tier 2 & 3 to be won via winning moments. For full T&Cs (inc. prize draw details, prize details and NPN NI) see website. Promoter: Mondelez Europe Services GmbH – UK Branch at Cadbury House, Sanderson Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1DH

MON2040_MDLZ_You're_Off_CMYK_UK-Landscape.indd 1

John West Renews Féile Sponsorship

JOHN West recently launched the 2019 John West Féile in Croke Park and announced that John West will renew its sponsorship of the Féile for a further four seasons until 2022. The John West Féile competitions are national festivals for Gaelic Football, Ladies Gaelic Football, Handball, Hurling, Camogie and Rounders played at Under 14 level. This is the fourth year that John West will sponsor the underage tournament, which is the biggest competition of its kind. Throughout its sponsorship of the Féile, John West has focused on encouraging children to participate in Gaelic Games while emphasising the importance natural protein plays in fuelling a young athlete.

Pictured are Mayo footballer Lee Keegan, Limerick hurler Aaron Gillane, Mayo ladies footballer Niamh Kelly, and Kilkenny camogie player Anna Farrell in Croke Park.

Keelings Races Ahead at Fairyhouse RASHAAN claimed first place in the Keelings Irish Strawberry Hurdle at Fairyhouse recently with jockey, Davy Russell, on board.

This Grade 2 National Hunt hurdle has been sponsored by Keelings since 2011, and is open to horses aged five years or older and is run over a distance of two miles and four furlongs. David Keeling, Managing Director, Keelings (right), treats trainer Colin Kidd to some strawberries in the winning enclosure during the presentation of the Keelings Irish Strawberry Hurdle race.

Londis Sponsors Hell & Back

IRELAND international soccer star Stephanie Roche was on hand to help Londis announce its sponsorship of Hell & Back for the third year and to reveal a new charity element in aid of Pieta House. This year, Londis will aim to raise funds for its charity partner Pieta House with ‘Hell & Back for Joy’, giving people even more reason to sign up and take part in the thrilling challenge. Hell & Back is Ireland’s toughest physical and mental endurance challenge, attracting thousands of participants through a series of adventure events. Open to everyone and with challenges to suit adults, teens and tots, the first Hell & Back series will take place on June 15 and 16. Pictured are Pictured are Marie Peelo, Pieta House; Jonathan Gillan, Londis Castleknock, Conor Hayes, Londis Sales Director; Stephanie Roche, Ireland international soccer star; Barry Gillen, Londis Trim; Seamus Griffin, Griffin’s Londis Retail Group; and Aidan Walsh, Alive Outside.

Big Red Rugby Sponsorship BIG Red Cloud have become a Match Official Partner of the Guinness Pro14 that will see the online accounts company take over the sponsorship space on the back of the referees’ jerseys. Big Red Cloud have also signed up as a sponsor for the 2019/20 season and will be a firm supporter of the Championship’s team of referees as the partnership promises to increase funding for the Match Official programme. Pictured are (l-r): Nigel Owens, International Rugby Referee; Marc O‘Dwyer, CEO of Big Red Cloud; Greg Garner, Elite Referee Manager, Pro14 Rugby; Dermot Rigley, Commercial Director of Pro14 Rugby; and Marius Mitrea, International Rugby Referee.

18/01/2019 12:25

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16|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Retail News Interview

DIGI Chair Calls for Excise Cuts A reversal of the 2013 excise hike on alcohol is vital to protect jobs and domestic businesses against the challenging months and years ahead, argues Rosemary Garth, Chairperson of the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland and Irish Distillers’ Communications and Corporate Affairs Director.

ROSEMARY Garth became the new Chairperson of the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI) in July 2018, taking over from Heineken Ireland’s Maggie Timoney in the role when Timoney relocated across the Atlantic

to take on the role of Heineneken USA’s CEO. The Communications and Corporate Affairs Director from Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard has vast experience of the Irish drinks sector, and has been very

vocal since her appointment, repeatedly calling on the Government to reduce Ireland’s excise duties on alcohol, which are amongst the highest in Europe, in a bid to combat the challenges ahead, particularly those coming from Brexit.

Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie|17

Retail News Interview The drinks industry directly employs 92,000 people, while the hospitality sector as a whole supports almost 210,000 jobs throughout Ireland, purchasing €1.1 billion worth of Irish inputs annually and exporting €1.25 billion worth of produce every year.

DIGI is the representative group for the wider drinks and hospitality industry in Ireland, whose membership spans manufacturers, distributors and the retail sectors, including Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland; Licenced Vintners Association; Vintners Federation of Ireland; Restaurants Association of Ireland; Irish Hotels Federation and the National Off-Licence Association. Retail News spoke to the DIGI Chairperson about the continued importance of the organisation in the 21st Century and the challenges facing the sector in the months and years ahead.

How important is a group like DIGI in the current marketplace?

This year is a year like no other when it comes to the marketplace for the drinks and hospitality sector in Ireland. It is an even more important year in Europe in terms of competitiveness and protection, given the political uncertainty. DIGI works to promote the economic, social and cultural contribution that the drinks and hospitality sector makes to Ireland on a global scale. In terms of domestic exchequer returns, DIGI supports over 250,000 indirect jobs in the wider hospitality sector, as well as boosting tourism figures and spend, as the sector continues to act as a major draw for visitors from the UK, Europe and further afield.

What do you see as its main role?

Our focus is to ensure that our sector can continue to grow, supporting jobs and maintaining and developing the many regional businesses which are part of this industry across the country.

Part of this involves focusing on policy to ensure that measures are in place, and introduced, which fully support the industry, particularly from a tax perspective. Ireland’s alcohol excise tax is the second highest in Europe, behind only Finland. In a time filled with uncertainty, DIGI believes that we need to bring this in line with our EU counterparts to ensure the sustainability and competitiveness of this industry.

Ireland’s punitive excise regime on alcohol has been well documented: why is it that so far Government has refused to budge on excise levels here?

The drinks and hospitality sector has

“

Ireland will suffer disproportionately to any other EU country, no matter what kind of Brexit we find ourselves in. However, the impact of a hard Brexit on the drinks and hospitality sector alone could hit the Irish economy by more than €150m a year in lost output and sales.

”

endured multiple tax increases in the last seven years. In two consecutive budgets, excise taxes were increased, VAT increased from 21% to 23% in 2011 (which is also applicable to all alcohol products) and in Budget 2019, the special hospitality VAT rate increased to 13.5%. Successive governments have initially been focused on reducing borrowing but in more recent years, there has been scope for government to reduce excise taxes. Instead, the Government has prioritised an increase in spending and a reduction in income tax. Our industry is at the centre of Irish social and cultural fabric. It is at the centre of every community across the island, is one of the biggest employment sectors in the country, and contributes over €2.6 billion a year to the Irish exchequer. However, considering Brexit, general economic uncertainty, increased regulation, and changing consumer behaviour, there are significant challenges to the sector and its economic contribution.

We are constantly engaging with Government to highlight the contribution of the sector to the Irish economy and the exchequer. We are very aware of the tight budgetary room that successive governments have had over the last number of years. However, now that the economy is growing, we are asking the Government to invest and support in our industry.

What more can be done and what will happen if excise levels are not reduced?

We have the highest excise tax on wine, the second highest on beer, and the third

highest on spirits. This is uncompetitive considering EU levels. This industry is regional, accounting for thousands of businesses throughout the country.

It is the primary industry for tourism, attracting international visitors, and we are continuing to invest. In 2013, there were four distilleries in operation on the island of Ireland; now there are 24, with more to come. We need to ensure that we can continue to innovate and sustain this growth. Reducing the excise tax burden on the sector in 2020 is an immediate action which can be taken to support this industry. This is more important now than ever.

What threat does Brexit pose to the Irish drinks industry?

Ireland will suffer disproportionately to any other EU country, no matter what kind of Brexit we find ourselves in.

However, the impact of a hard Brexit on the drinks and hospitality sector alone could hit the Irish economy by more than €150m a year in lost output and sales.

This lost revenue would result from a combination of hard Brexit-related factors at a time when drinks exports to the UK already reduced by 2.7% in 2018. There was a two percent reduction in British tourism figures on last year and a potential increase in cross-border shopping could cost the economy €60m, as estimated in DIGI’s report last year.

What can be done to help mitigate this threat?

To counteract the effects of a hard Brexit on the drinks and hospitality industry, the Government could introduce an immediate protectionary measure by reducing alcohol excise tax in Ireland.

Not only do we have the highest level of excise tax on alcohol in the EU, individually we have the highest tax on wine, the second highest on beer, and the third highest on spirits. A reduction in excise will serve as a defensive, albeit late, measure post any Brexit deal, and free up funds for businesses in a now more restricted, regulated market, while also allowing for continued growth and expansion at home and abroad.

What effect will the Public Health (Alcohol) Act have on the industry?

As a sector, we support the objectives of the Public Health (Alcohol) Act. It is in our industry’s long-term interest to promote sustainable and responsible levels of alcohol consumption in Ireland.

We believe that all policy measures introduced by any Government should be evidence based.

With Irish alcohol consumption steadily

18|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Retail News Interview

Ireland’s alcohol excise tax is the second highest in Europe, behind only Finland. DIGI believes that we need to bring this in line with our EU counterparts to ensure the sustainability and competitiveness of this industry. falling, is the Act a case of using a hammer to crack a nut?

The misuse of alcohol is a complex problem, one which we fully agree needs to be tackled and the industry is committed to working with Government and other stakeholders to achieve this.

What more/else could be done to curb harmful drinking in Ireland?

We think the Government should take an evidence-based approach to tackle misuse and to ensure existing legislation is applied, particularly with regard to underage consumption of alcohol and responsible serving.

The low/no alcohol sector has seen substantial growth in recent years (albeit from a small base). Why do you think this is?

There are times when consumers don't want to drink alcohol and in order to cater for all people and all occasions, many drinks producers have developed alcohol-free beers, wines, and spirits of superior quality. For leaders in the drinks industry, this presents a significant opportunity to develop new

and innovative products that continue to focus on creating unique experiences that can be shared in good company.

Despite all these challenges, Ireland’s drinks industry is in pretty good health, thanks to the continued growth of craft beer and cider, the Irish whiskey revolution and the explosion in popularity of Irish-made gins and vodkas. Why is the industry expanding so rapidly?

Domestically, the Irish drinks market is highly competitive and constantly evolving in line with consumer preferences and tastes. What we’ve witnessed over the last decade, but particularly over the last six years, is the growth of a new wave of businesses which are flexible and eager to serve shifts in consumer taste, developing new and innovative products and services.

There are large and small distilleries and breweries dotted nationwide. It is no surprise to see an increase in products and campaigns as the sector has reacted to changing consumer behaviours, trends, and habits towards higher quality and premium

products.

Ireland’s tradition of producing exceptionally high-quality products, married with a new trend of millennial expectations, standards, and palate, has had a major impact on the expansion of our industry. However, it is the innovation and entrepreneurship by people in our sector that has had the biggest contribution to the growth we have seen.

What would you like to see happening, at a state level, to facilitate the continued growth of Ireland’s drinks industry?

The Government has a key role to play, not just in facilitating the continued growth of Ireland’s drinks and hospitality industry and supporting the incredible work that our sector has managed to do through the most difficult years in recent times. It is now imperative that Government protects jobs, businesses, farmers, and communities. By simply reversing the excise increase announced my then Minister for Finance, Michael Noonan, in 2013, this Government will facilitate and achieve all this.

Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie|19

Retail Ireland: Monthly Update OIREACHTAS MUST MAKE PASSING OF THE JUDICIAL COUNCIL BILL A PRIORITY THE recent passing of the Personal Injury (Amendment) Act is a welcome development that will go some way to correcting the current malaise within the insurance industry in Ireland.

Retailers continue to report rising premiums and while the scale of awards arising from personal injury claims continues to rise, retailers have continuously voiced serious concern about the impact the ongoing lack of reform in this sector is having on the viability of their businesses.

We in Retail Ireland are hopeful that the PIAB Act and the Judicial Council Bill will act as a brake on these trends.

The PIAB Act is only one leg of two pieces of legislation designed to reform the insurance industry. The other, the Judicial Council Bill, is still making its way slowly through the Oireachtas after nearly two years since its initiation in the Seanad. While this length of time to pass a crucial piece of legislation is not acceptable, we are happy to see the Bill now making good progress. The establishment of a Judicial Council to give oversight of awards in personal injury cases by judges will, we hope, allow some modicum of reality to come back into the system.

As it currently stands, awards for minor soft tissue

damage in this jurisdiction are over four times the level of similar awards in England and Wales; this cannot continue, as it proven fact that these high awards drive already high premiums even higher.

This is causing a major drain on the resources and margins of retailers of all sizes.

While we recognise the constitutional need to respect the separation of powers between the judiciary and the legislature, we also recognise the urgent need for reform in the area of personal injury.

The passing of the Judicial Council Bill must be concluded before the Oireachtas goes into recess for the summer or we will have missed another opportunity to make a real difference for hard pressed Irish retailers who are already under strain from a loss of competitiveness as a result of rising input costs.

Irish Economy Continues to See Strong Growth IBEC published its latest Quarterly Economic Outlook Q1 2019 which forecasts GDP growth of 4% in 2019. This strong growth is based on the back of buoyant investment and rising household incomes. Household income has now reached record levels and is growing at 6% per annum. These rising incomes are underpinned by exceptional levels of business investment, and related employment effects, rather than household borrowing. Ibec also warned that this pace of growth will not last indefinitely, as the global economy shows signs of slowing.

For 2019, Ibec forecasts that growth will moderate to 4%, and to 2.7% in 2020. These forecasts assume a deal on Brexit is reached. In the event of a no-deal Brexit, significant impacts are expected from a sterling depreciation, cancelled investment, falling consumer confidence, rising prices, and significant trade disruption throughout late 2019 and 2020. The economy may still grow but growth would more than halve in 2020 and employment growth could fall as low as 0.5%

While total employment in the overall economy is growing at a relatively steady pace of 2.3% per year, the retail sector is lagging somewhat behind this at 1.2%. There are many factors as to why this is the case, including Brexit, which is eroding competitiveness in consumer facing sectors. In many of the metrics shown in Ibec’s quarterly report, the retail sector is lagging behind the wider economy. One of the reasons for this is that margins are so small in the retail space that any uncertainty or fluctuations in consumers’ spending behaviours would have a knock-on effect in terms of the overall health of the industry. This is clearly shown in consumer sentiment and consumer spending data.

The potential impact of Brexit on the retail sector cannot be over-stated, not only from a back office and supply chain perspective, but also from the perspective of a potential a downturn in economic performance arising from a ‘Hard Brexit’ and the knock-on implications for sales at the tills of Irish retailers.

Tel: 01-6051558 www.retailireland.ie Need more?

For more information about what we do and how your retail business can benefit from our unique services and supports, please visit us at www.retailireland.ie.

20|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Today’s Women in Grocery

TWIG Lunch a Great Success The TWIG Networking Luncheon proved a hugely impressive event for the 460 delegates who heard from a range of inspiring speakers who addressed the theme, ‘The Power Of You’.

“DON’T be afraid to zig when everyone else is zagging” were the words that echoed around the Intercontinental Hotel to rapturous applause from 460 of the most senior figures in Ireland’s grocery, food and drink industry as keynote speaker Fiona Dawson, Global President of Mars, brought the inspiring proceedings of 4th annual ‘Today’s Women in Grocery’ (TWIG) charity networking luncheon to a close.

The now legendary networking luncheon is the most influential gathering of its kind to put female empowerment in the grocery, food and drink sector firmly front and centre, while the equally legendary Beefeater ‘gin-wag’ in the Ice Bar afterwards plays a pivotal role in bringing the women of the industry together to push forward for change.

Unlocking Your True Potential This year’s panel of speakers is testament to the desire within the industry to see more women aspire to leadership roles across grocery, food and drink. Fiona Dawson inspired with her tales of the winding road that brought her to one of the most senior roles in the global food industry and she was full of practical advice for attendees around unlocking their true potential by being themselves.

Echoing those sentiments were Kari Daniels, new CEO of Tesco Ireland and the first female President of Appeals for the Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund, who inspired attendees with her words of encouragement that “your career is a long game, don’t rush and change if it doesn’t feel right”, she also urged women to think about leaving a legacy.

The Pursuit of Balance Carolan Lennon, the first female CEO of eir, advised guests at the luncheon that the pursuit of balance in our lives

Pictured are the TWIG committee (l-r): Michelle Darlington, LR Suntory; Paula Conlon, Heineken Ireland; Sharon Doherty, Tesco Ireland; Sharon Yourell-Lawlor, Chair of TWIG; Anne O’Brien, Musgrave Group; Frances Higgins, BWG and IGBF; Lorraine Butler, CPM.

TWIG Speakers: Kari Daniels, CEO of Tesco Ireland & IGBF President of Appeals; Fiona Dawson, Global President, Food, Drinks, and Multisales, Mars; event MC Sonya Lennon; TWIG Chairperson, Sharon Yourell Lawlor; Carolan Lennon, CEO, eir; John Ryan, CEO of Great Places to Work; and Suzanne Jackson, owner of SoSueMe; at the TWIG networking lunch.

Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie|21

Today’s Women in Grocery

Michelle Darlington, Marketing Manager, LR Suntory, and Donal O'Shea, IGBF, at the TWIG networking lunch.

Pictured are event MC, Sonya Lennon, speaker Suzanne Jackson and Sharon Yourell Lawlor, Chair of TWIG.

Frances Higgins, IGBF, Kari Daniels, Tesco Ireland & IGBF President of Appeals, Leonard Hegarty, Chair of IGBF, and Sharon Yourell Lawlor, Chair of TWIG, at the TWIG networking lunch

Catherine Lambe, HR Director; Anne O'Brien, Foodservice Category Manager; and Jane McEvoy, all from Musgrave Group, at the TWIG networking lunch

is a tricky one. Her advice centred on trying to achieve balance “in the round”.

Practical advice included “accept that some days are going to be all about work. Don’t be so hard on yourself and look at how you are balancing the important things in life over a quarter.”

John Ryan, CEO of Great Places to Work, spoke about the need for self-care in today’s fast paced world and urged attendees to enjoy the journey.

At the GH Mumm champagne reception, beauty entrepreneur and

world class blogger Suzanne Jackson of SoSueMe fame mingled with guests and recounted the impressive story behind going from unemployment to building her beauty empire.

Businesswoman and broadcaster Sonya Lennon who MC’d the event also spoke on the theme 'The Power of You' and urged attendees not to let fear hold them back. “Fear held me back 10 years” she confidently confessed from the stage to appreciative applause from the floor.

Pictured at the TWIG networking lunch are Catherine Casserly, Marketing Director, and Claire Tolan, Managing Director, Irish Distillers.

Aiming Higher with Confidence Wrapping up the fourth Today’s Women in Grocery networking charity luncheon, Sharon Yourell-Lawlor, Chair of TWIG and MD of Think, Plan, Do Consulting, said: “This year has been one of our most successful and we are privileged to share the stage today with women of such might, awe and inspiration. Their words of advice rung out loud and clear today and have inspired all of us to aim that little bit higher with a spring in our steps and more confidence in our

22|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Today’s Women in Grocery

Suzanne Jackson addresses the TWIG Networking Lunch.

Kari Daniels, CEO of Tesco Ireland and IGBF President of Appeals; Frances Higgins, Group Head of Promotions at BWG and Vice-Chair of the IGBF; and Fiona Dawson, Global President, Food, Drinks, and Multisales, Mars, at the TWIG networking lunch. hearts. I would like to thank the TWIG committee for their unwavering support in putting the event together and really getting behind our aim of encouraging and empowering more women in grocery, food and drink to reach higher and believe in what they can do, personally and professionally, to advance diversity and inclusion in our great industry.”

The ‘Today’s Women in Grocery’ group was created by the Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund (IGBF) as a platform for women in grocery to grow their connections, learn from leading inspirational women and ultimately propel more women to the senior ranks of the industry. It aims to encourage more female participation in industry events and initiatives by providing a female focused professional networking forum that recognises the important role women will play in the industry’s future development.

The IGBF plays a vital role is fundraising for people in the industry that need help. All funds raised at the TWIG luncheon are donated to the IGBF to support those who have fallen on hard times.

TWIG Committee members Sharon Doherty, Tesco Ireland; Lorraine Butler, CEO, CPM; and Paula Conlon, Customer Marketing Controller, Heineken Ireland, at the TWIG networking lunch.

Sharon Yourell Lawlor, Chair of TWIG, and Kari Daniels, Tesco Ireland and IGBF, at the TWIG networking lunch.

Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie|23

Skin Care

Nivea Men Introduce the Ultimate Stubble Companion NIVEA MEN, Ireland’s number one male facecare brand (Source: Neilsen ROI Extended Scantrack, 52 week data to June 17, 2018) and the official men’s grooming supplier to Liverpool FC, are helping men embrace their facial hair. With 65% of men claiming to have sensitive skin (Source: TNS Sensitive Usage & Attitude report 2015, Russia & Germany), the new Nivea Men Sensitive Skin & Stubble Lotion is the perfect addition to any bathroom cabinet, no matter what your facial hair look is.

TACKLE THE

5 SIGNS OF SKIN IRRITATION

Whether you are sporting a 5 o’clock shadow, next day growth, or few-day old stubble, Nivea Men Sensitive Skin & Stubble Lotion is specifically designed to leave skin feeling smooth and the stubble soft - a perfect everyday companion for men to use after a shave and in between shaving days.

The formula, which contains 0% alcohol, Chamomile and Almond Oil, moisturises and calms the skin, as well as softening stubble as it grows. The balm is non-greasy, leaving skin feeling comfortable and soft.

24|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Flora

Flora Range Becomes 100% Plant-Based Flora has reformulated its entire portfolio to become 100% plant-based.

IN a move that will transform the butters and spreads category, Flora has reformulated its iconic portfolio to be made with 100% plant goodness.

Available across all channels since March 18, the significant brand relaunch will be supported by a substantial marketing campaign, including a new TV ad, airing later this year.

With great taste and product versatility at the heart of this transformation, Flora Original, Flora Light, Flora Buttery and Flora Dairy Free are made from ingredients from natural origins and are perfect for spreading, baking and cooking.

Growing Consumer Trend The reformulation not only appeals to families looking for a great tasting spread that everyone can enjoy, it taps into the growing consumer trend for plant-based diets - which has seen a 300% increase in the last year alone (Source: Foodie Labs, 2018). The vegan friendly offering will also appeal to the growing number of consumers who are now identifying as vegan.

The activity, which marks Upfield UK’s first substantial investment since acquiring Flora back in 2018, is designed to drive value into the category by giving the brand a point of difference and consumers a reason to buy, presenting a valuable opportunity to retailers.

A Key Moment for the Category “Health and wellbeing has never been so important to consumers,” stated Steven Hermiston, General Manager UKI, Upfield. “People care more about what goes into the products they are feeding themselves and their families,

but they are not prepared to compromise on taste, and they shouldn’t have to. With a great new recipe making Flora more delicious than ever, our new 100% Plant Goodness range can be enjoyed by the whole family.

“Plant-based nutrition is at the heart of the Upfield business and Flora, with its plant goodness, is set to lead the charge and marks a key moment for us and the wider category.”

Retailers should look out for the newly designed packaging and stock up now to take advantage of the sales opportunity presented

by Flora.

About Upfield The largest plant-based company in the world, Upfield is the number one producer of plant-based spreads globally, with more than 60 brands, including iconic brands Flora, Rama, Blue Band, ProActiv, Becel and Country Crock. With headquarters in Amsterdam, Upfield sell their products in over 95 countries and have 57 manufacturing sites throughout the world. For more information, see www.Upfield.com.

The Flora range of plant-based spreads includes Flora Original, Flora Light, Flora Buttery and Flora Dairy Free.

GREAT NEW TASTE THE LEADING PLANT-BASED SPREAD IN IRELAND2

100% PL ANT OODNESS G Great tasting new recipe with no artificial preservatives, colourings or flavours Taps into growing consumer trend for plant-based diets1

Naturally contains Omega 3 & 6. Essential fats are needed for normal growth and development of children. A daily intake of 2g alpha linolenic acid and 10g linolenic acid is needed.

2 x 10g servings of Flora a day contribute a significant amount to this. Enjoy as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle. Selected stores only, subject to availability.

1. The Independent, 2018. 2. Nielsen WE 24.03.19.

26|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Product News

A New Break Experience from KitKat across Ireland. Derived from Ruby cocoa beans, Ruby chocolate has an intense berry-fruitiness taste without the addition of any flavour or colour and is often referred to as a fourth type of chocolate after dark, milk and white.

FANS of the KitKat brand will welcome the news that Nestlé has expanded the range of KitKat Senses, its premium variant of the world famous KitKat, a year after its initial launch.

Two new premium, single bars, KitKat Senses Salted Caramel and KitKat Senses Hazelnut will offer the perfect combination of delicious KitKat chocolate and wafer with a thick layer of indulgent salted caramel filling infused with crunchy caramel flakes (Salted Caramel variant) or a layer of sumptuous praline and crunchy hazelnut pieces (Hazelnut variant).

Each bar is comprised of three delicious chocolates, wrapped to create a perfect indulgent break and what is being described as a ‘me-time’ moment.

Each KitKat Senses Salted Caramel and KitKat Senses Hazelnut bar is comprised of three delicious chocolates, wrapped to create a perfect indulgent break and what is being described as a ‘me-time’ moment.

Embracing the Ruby For those looking for a different taste

experience, a new Ruby chocolate version of Nestlé’s four finger KitKat single is also starting to appear in stores

A new Ruby chocolate version of Nestlé’s four finger KitKat single is starting to appear in stores across Ireland.

On the Road with Moy Park’s Marvellous Taste Tour!

FOLLOWING the success of 2018’s Masterfully Crafted, Marvellously Tasty campaign, the Moy Park brand will take to the road this summer with its Marvellous Taste Tour!

The tour will kick off at The Balmoral Show, before visiting key events in Blanchardstown, Cork, Offaly and Waterford, including the Tullamore Show and Waterford Harvest Festival.

Brand Marketing Manager for Moy Park, Aisling Graham explains: “The focus of the activity is very much about increasing brand awareness by getting visitors on our tour to have some fun and enjoy great tasting products from the Moy Park breaded range.”

On-Pack Promotion “In support of the Marvellous Taste Tour, we will launch an on-pack promotion, which will give five lucky consumers the chance to win a Foodie Road Trip of their own across Ireland,” Aisling explained. “The promotion will

feature on the core Moy Park breaded mini fillet product range, Goujons and Nuggets, which are stocked in retailers in the Republic of Ireland.”

Moy Park has enlisted celebrity chefs as brand ambassadors, who will showcase recipes, and each produce a signature dish featuring Moy Park’s breaded mini fillets, which will feature on Moy Park’s Facebook and Instagram pages. “We hope to inspire people to cook and create mouth-watering recipes using Moy Park branded breaded chicken - demonstrating the versatility of the products,” Aisling noted.

There will also be a fully integrated marketing campaign, with outdoor, radio and social media to support the launch of the Marvellous Taste Tour, the Brand Marketing Manager explained, “for what promises to be a summer filled with lots of delicious Moy Park breaded chicken, fun and giveaways!”

Moy Park are supporting the Marvellous Taste Tour with an on-pack promotion, giving five lucky consumers the chance to win a Foodie Road Trip of their own across Ireland.

Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie|27

Daybreak Store of the Year Awards

Daybreak Rewards Stores for Excellence

Daybreak Dungarvan won both the Overall Store of The Year & the Charity Merit Award at the Daybreak Store of the Year Awards.

DAYBREAK Dungarvan was named Best Overall Store of the Year at the Daybreak Store of the Year Awards, which took place on April 4 in the Knightsbrook Hotel, Co. Meath.

As well as scooping the top accolade, the store also took home the Charity Merit Award for its outstanding achievement in raising over €9,000 for the Irish Heart Foundation, Daybreak’s charity partner in 2018. Daybreak

Dungarvan, located on Youghal Rd, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, is owned by Kevin Forde and employs 28 people.

A Tough Competition “Huge congratulations to Kevin Forde and his hardworking team at Daybreak Dungarvan on winning Best Overall Store of the Year Award and the Charity Merit Award at the Daybreak Store of the Year Awards,” noted Thomas Morrison,

Head of Retail Sales, Musgrave Wholesale Partners. “The Store of the Year awards celebrate excellence in convenience retailing and highlight the great consumer experience provided across the Daybreak network. It was a tough competition this year, with many worthy contenders and this win is a testament to the team’s huge effort and commitment to providing to providing a great service to their local community.”

Pictured are (l-r): Ross Maxwell, Coca Cola; Helen Taylor, Antoinette Joyce, Paul Casey, store owner Kevin Forde, and Darrius Zukauskas, all from Daybreak Dungarvan, Overall Store of the Year Winner; Paul Kerrigan, Director, Musgrave MarketPlace; and Noel Keeley, Managing Director, Musgrave MarketPlace.

28|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Daybreak Store of the Year Awards A total of 15 retailers were shortlisted for the overall Daybreak Store of the Year Award, which focuses on four key areas: products & services, store environment, communications, and people. During the competition, stores were assessed against rigorous criteria, including a series of mystery shopper surveys and audits on store standards.

The Dungarvan-based store was also recently awarded the highly prestigious Q Mark Emerald Standard.

The National Q Mark awards are widely recognised in Ireland’s food service industry as the Oscars of Business Excellence. The Q Mark is the highest standard of food safety available in Ireland and verifies Daybreak Dungarvan’s efficiency, performance and commitment to food safety.

Other Award Winners As well as the coveted overall Store of the Year accolade, other awards on the night focused on key in-store categories and store layouts. The winners were: • • • •

Best Forecourt Store of The Year & Health Champion Award: Daybreak Southlink, Co. Cork Best Neighbourhood Store of The Year: Daybreak Rolestown, Co. Dublin Best High Convenience Store of The Year: Daybreak The Gandon Inn, Emo, Co. Laois Best Wine Award & Best Off-Licence Award: Daybreak Raven Terrace, Galway

Pictured at the presentation of the Best Neighbourhood Store of The Year Award are (l-r): Barry Connell, Mondelez, Olga Grundan and Julie Shinkorenko, from the winning store, Daybreak Rolestown; Paul Kerrigan, Director, Musgrave MarketPlace; and Noel Keeley, Managing Director, Musgrave MarketPlace.

• • • •

Best Impulse Award: Daybreak Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Best Food to Go & Hot Beverage Award: Daybreak Cloonboo, Co. Galway Best Product Availability Award: Daybreak Drumgoold, Co. Wexford Best Customer Service Award:

McGuire’s Daybreak Raven Terrace, Galway, won the Best Wine Award and Best Off-Licence Award. Pictured are (l-r): Linda Cowan, Gilbeys; Bernadette and Arthur McGuire, store owners; Paul Kerrigan, Director, Musgrave MarketPlace; and Noel Keeley, Managing Director, Musgrave MarketPlace.

Daybreak Tractamotors, Dublin 15 Daybreak is Ireland’s fastest growing convenience group, with over 220 stores nationwide. All stores are independently owned by local retailers, ensuring that each store can respond to the everyday needs of their local community.

The Best Customer Service Award went to Daybreak Tractamotors. Pictured are (l-r): Alan Claffey, LR Suntory; Shane Carty, Daybreak Tractamotors; Paul Kerrigan, Director, Musgrave MarketPlace; and Noel Keeley, Managing Director, Musgrave MarketPlace.

Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie|29

Daybreak Store of the Year Awards

Daybreak Southlink took both the Best Forecourt Store of The Year and the Health Champion Awards. Pictured are (lr): Nigel Bramley, LR Suntory; Fabrizio Cellucci, Josephine Deasy, store owner Brendan Scally, and David Barry, all from Daybreak Southlink; with Paul Kerrigan, Director, Musgrave MarketPlace, and Noel Keeley, Managing Director, Musgrave MarketPlace.

The Best Food to Go and Hot Beverage Award went to Daybreak Cloonboo, Co. Galway. Pictured are (l-r): Ross Maxwell, Coca-Cola; Teresa Cunniffe, Daybreak Cloonboo; Paul Kerrigan, Director, Musgrave MarketPlace; and Noel Keeley, Managing Director, Musgrave MarketPlace.

Daybreak Drumgoold, Co. Wexford, won the Best Product Availability Award. Pictured are (l-r): Fionn MacAodhagain, JTI; Lisa Kenny and Akash Deep, both from Daybreak Drumgoold; Paul Kerrigan, Director, Musgrave MarketPlace; and Noel Keeley, Managing Director, Musgrave MarketPlace.

Daybreak at The Gandon Inn was named Best High Convenience Store of The Year. Pictured at the award presentation are (l-r): Peter Horwood Barrett, Britvic; Fiona Hyland, Tina Delaney, Agnes White and Donagh Tracey from Daybreak, The Gandon Inn; with Paul Kerrigan, Director, Musgrave MarketPlace, and Noel Keeley, Managing Director, Musgrave MarketPlace.

Daybreak Castlerea. Co. Roscommon, won the Best Impulse Award.

Pictured are (l-r): Shane McEntee, Tayto Snacks; Padraig Keegan and Eoin Crosbie from Daybreak Castlerea; Paul Kerrigan, Director, Musgrave MarketPlace; and Noel Keeley, Managing Director, Musgrave MarketPlace.

30|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Eating Habits

Embracing Healthy Eating

Irish eating habits are shifting, as the nation chooses healthier meals, according to new research conducted by Heinz into meal habits in Ireland.

NEW research conducted by Heinz shows that we’re no longer a nation mindlessly munching on mere meat and two veg, as Irish tastes and culinary skills have become more experimental and more health-focused.

The research was developed by Heinz to coincide with the launch of #MyTable, a fun new campaign to promote Heinz’s popular No Added Sugar Beanz.

Overall, the report highlights the shift towards healthier eating and more experimental food choices amongst Irish adults. The report shows how attitudes differ, depending on life stages, with the priorities of Gen Z often differing to those of Baby Boomers. Importantly, the research demonstrates that, as part of

our societal culture, mealtimes really matter. Irish people hugely value meal times with family and friends, regardless of age.

More Adventurous Tastes We’re getting healthier and more adventurous! Doubtless, the effect of popular TV cookery programmes and the rise of food-internet-culture have contributed to the nation’s rising confidence in trying out new foods.

Eating healthy is a priority for the majority of Irish people - with the demand for Low Sugar and Low Salt options growing.

This trend is validated in the following results: • 68% of survey respondents claim

• •

they ‘like to eat healthily most of the time’, with Baby Boomers more likely than any other age cohort to make that claim; 73% ‘believe Irish families are more adventurous with their food choices than they were five years ago’; 66% believe that ‘there should be more low sugar/salt options available’.

Rise of the Flexitarian However, being healthy is challenging.

Gen Z and Millennials are most likely to claim that being ‘super busy’ makes it difficult for them to make healthier choices, whilst Baby Boomers are finding it easier. Almost half the population (43%) chooses to ‘sometimes

Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie|31

Eating Habits However, 40% of those asked think that, in their household, they do not eat together enough as a family / group, while in considering Irish families, in general, 61% of respondents believe that Irish families don’t ‘eat together’ enough.

Beans as One of the ‘5 a Day’ When it comes to attitudes towards David Adams, Head of Ireland, Kraft Heinz. beans overall, Irish people are positively predisposed to eat vegetarian or vegan’, with females beans, and their nutritional value. more likely than males to make that Beans are naturally high in protein and choice. This has become known as a fibre and this is something Irish people flexitarian diet: eating mostly plantunderstand. based foods while allowing meat and other animal products in moderation.

• 82% of people have a strong David Adams, Head of Ireland, Kraft awareness of the nutritional value Heinz, said: “Beans are no longer just of beans, stating that they agree, or the go-to topping for buttery toast. Now, strongly agree with the statement in more experimental culinary times, ‘beans are high in protein’ and people choose to use beans in much 73% of people asked understand, more innovative ways. Using beans and recognise, that ‘beans are in chilli recipes, lasagne and even on nutritious.’ nachos is now commonplace, bringing • Over 46% of those surveyed a sense of fun and flair to dinner times. consider beans to be part of their It’s the combination of an old favourite five a day. with new ideas that makes meals more interesting.”

Irish Attitudes and Habits Around Mealtimes Mealtimes matter. Research shows that social occasions around mealtimes are important and remain a huge priority for Irish adults. Whilst 12% of people claim ‘not to eat a lot of meals with family’, family mealtime (eating meals, at home with my family) is still a regular habit for nearly 3 out of 4 (72%) of those surveyed.

However, it depends on the age profile of those asked. Gen Z/Millennials, and those without kids, are most likely to claim that how and where they consume their meals ‘can change depending on the day’. Gen Z/Millennials are also most likely to claim to ‘eat out a lot’. Those with kids are most likely to claim to eat most of their meals at home with their family.

83% believe that ‘eating meals as a group/family’ is important for our children’s health, well-being and development. When it comes to dinner, despite pre-conceptions of a nation-onthe-go, 65% of those surveyed eat dinner ‘at the kitchen table’.

A 100g serving of Heinz No Added Sugar Beanz contains just 0.2g of fat, while they are also naturally low in salt and cholesterol free.

However, attitudes towards beans vary, depending on age. Compared to younger generations, Baby Boomers are most aware that beans are high in protein, are nutritious and are healthy, while Gen X are most likely to consume beans as one of their five a day.

Reassuringly for Heinz, when asked ‘do you think you should eat more beans?’, over twice as many people agreed that beans should be a bigger part of their nutritional diet!

Beans are naturally low in fat - a 100g serving of Heinz No Added Sugar Beanz contains just 0.2g of fat, while they are also naturally low in salt and cholesterol free. They are high in protein and fibre too, with no artificial sweeteners, making them a perfect choice for today’s more healthconscious mealtime maker.

Heinz #MyTable Campaign The Heinz #MyTable campaign celebrates the modern Irish mealtime, which is becoming more healthconscious and experimental than ever before. Fans can get involved by joining the conversation on Heinz’s social media channels. Heinz wants to know what celebrity Irish people would like to join them at their table for mealtime.

Fans are invited to tag their most wanted guest using #MyTable to win prizes!

“We understand the reality of home life, the ups and downs and the small moments that matter,” noted David Adams. “We listen intently to our Irish customers (our longstanding fanbase and those who’ve yet to experience the nutritional benefit of beans). We’re responding to today’s customers by delivering nutritional, tasty product choices that deliver on their nutritional needs. Beyond our products, we also promote positive nutrition and healthy living with our Heinz Sports Club platform. Our new #MyTable campaign for Heinz No Added Sugar Beanz is reflective of Heinz’s commitment to healthier living and healthier food choices.”

Heinz Beanz research was conducted with a nationally representative survey of 1,000 Irish adults adults aged 18+. Quotas were placed on the number of interviews achieved in each demographic grouping (age, gender, region and social class) to ensure it matched the Irish population.

All fieldwork was conducted between March 28 and April 3, 2019.

Watch out for the #MyTable campaign on billboards, on social and at www.heinz.ie.

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, do you?

NEW MYB LU.

H A N DY A N D E A S Y VA P I N G F O R YO U.

B LU.CO M Copyright Fontem Ventures 2019.

This product contains nicotine which is a highly addictive substance. Not a smoking cessation product.

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34|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Summer Stocking: Essentials

The Living Is Easy‌

The arrival of summer brings a host of profit opportunities for clever retailers, as consumers seek products to help them kick back and enjoy the warmer days ahead.

SUMMER is almost here - technically, May 1 used to signal the start of the official summer season but given the temperatures being experienced as we write, we’re holding fire on officially calling summer until the thermal socks go back in the sock drawer.

However, when the temperatures finally start to soar, and the entire nation crosses its collective fingers that we may get a summer like that of last year, you will hear the sound of a million shed doors being opened and barbecues being wrestled out of hibernation.

Irish people have really embraced barbecue season and al fresco dining.

Indeed, the Irish barbecue has come a long way since the days of charcoalencrusted sausages and barely-cooked burgers. Indeed there is very little that can’t be cooked or eaten al fresco, as Irish cooks showcase their barbecuing

Irish consumers have really embraced al fresco dining.

Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie|35

Summer Stocking: Essentials skills with prime cuts of meat and fish, as well as fruit and vegetable skewers, served with tantalising summer salads, sauces and condiments.

Indeed, Ireland plays host to Europe’s biggest barbecue festival in the shape of The Big Grill, which returns for its sixth year to Herbert Park, Dublin 4, from August 15-18. The Big Grill celebrates the art of cooking with fire and smoke, bringing chefs, cooks and pitmasters from Ireland, the UK and further afield, attracting over 20,000 visitors.

Whether you are a barbecue aficionado or not, A dollop of Ballymaloe Mayonnaise is the perfect however, there are profits finish to any sandwich, salad summer BBQ and to be made from stocking much more! for summer. It’s not just about buckets and spades (although tasting Mayonnaise is made in small such items are a big footfall driver batches with Extra Virgin olive oil, Irish for shops close to the beach), but ice free-range eggs and cracked black creams, salads, dressings, sun-creams, pepper. Its wonderful taste and highcharcoal and even disposable barbecues quality ingredients really set it apart are all on the agenda. Indeed, having a from other mayonnaise brands on the dedicated ‘Summertime’ area in-store market. A dollop of Ballymaloe mayo can create extra sales of everything from is the perfect finish to any sandwich, drinks to prime meat cuts, with smart salad summer BBQ and much more! retailers capable of bundling products Ballymaloe Mayonnaise is available in a from various categories to highlight 240g jar and in Squeezy 450ml. these summer sellers.

Ballymaloe Mayonnaise Following a long tradition of making homemade mayonnaise at Ballymaloe House, Ballymaloe are thrilled to announce the launch of their delicious new Irish Mayonnaise. Their unique

Ballymaloe Mayonnaise is made in small batches with Extra Virgin olive oil, Irish free-range eggs and cracked black pepper.

Nivea Sun Whether shoppers are jetting off to sunnier climes or staying put for a staycation, it’s important that their

Shoppers can make sun cream application fun for kids with the Nivea Sun Kids Trigger Spray.

skin is always protected from the sun’s harmful rays. Nivea Sun can look after you, both home and away, and allow users to have more fun in the sun this summer with these top picks: Shoppers can make Nivea Sun Protect & Moisture Sun Lotion (RRP

Nivea Sun Kids Protect & Care Coloured Roll-on provides children with highly effective UVA/UVB protection wherever they go. €16.99) their ultimate summer essential.

It contains highly effective UVA/UVB filters for immediate protection, and is suitable for all skin types. It’s important to reapply every two hours when spending time outside, so users should carry a bottle in a bag for easy on-the-go top ups!

Shoppers can make sun cream application fun for kids with the Nivea

The innovative formula of Nivea Lip Care Sun Protect provides effective UV protection from the effects of the sun and gives long lasting moisture.

Sell Stamps with With PostPoint you can offer great postal products to your customers including Stamp Booklets, Peel & Stick Stamps, and leading up to Christmas, Christmas Stamp Booklets.

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06/09/2018 11:36

100% renewable energy in every Calor patio gas cylinder.

Same on the outside, revolutionary on the inside. Every Calor patio cylinder now contains BioLPG, 100% renewable energy.

So it reduces carbon footprint, turning your barbeque days greener.

Calor BioLPG. A small choice that changes your world.

Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie|37

Summer Stocking: Essentials

Nivea Sun After Sun Spray is enriched with Aloe Vera to help restore lost moisture and soothe any irritation.

Sun Kids Trigger Spray (RRP €21.59).

The fun spray application is a simple and quick way to apply lotion to your child’s skin. You can also rest assured that they’ll be well-protected from the sun’s harmful rays as the gentle yet effective formula provides immediate high UVA/ UVB protection – meaning they can get on with playing with their friends!

Nivea Sun Kids Protect & Care Coloured Roll-on (RRP €9.99) provides children with highly effective UVA/ UVB protection wherever they go. With its child-friendly handy roll-on format for easy and playful application, it is simple and quick to apply on the skin.

Nivea’s innovative formula works immediately and ensures reliable, highly effective UVA and UVB protection. A fast-absorbing, non-sticky formula also makes applying sunscreen fun for kids.

The innovative formula of Nivea Lip Care Sun Protect (RRP €3.49), enriched with Vitamin E and sun flower extracts, provides effective UV protection from the effects of the sun and gives long lasting moisture, leaving your lips feeling smooth and well-protected.

Spending time in the sun can be tough on your skin. Whether it’s sunburn or the drying effects of sand, sea and chlorine, Nivea Sun After Sun Spray (RRP €7.99) refreshes and soothes the skin. The light formula is enriched with Aloe Vera to help restore lost moisture and soothe any irritation.

Calor BioLPG Cylinder In April 2018, Calor were the first in Ireland to bring BioLPG, a 100%

renewable gas, to the market. Calor BioLPG is the only renewable gas which is available across Ireland and the new clean energy is already making inroads into the energy market for homes and businesses. Calor BioLPG delivers emissions savings of up to 90% on conventional LPG. Calor have indicated that by the end of 2020, 10% of all Calor gas sold in Ireland will be renewable, and the company is already well over half way to achieving that goal.

For the 2019 summer season, BioLPG will be available in Calor’s range of patio gas cylinders. This means consumers can enjoy their summer days and nights in the garden, knowing that they are making a small contribution to the future of our environment. BioLPG is available since April in the 6kg lightweight and 11kg patio gas cylinders through Calor gas stockists.

The BioLPG cylinder launch will be supported by a new range of dynamic ads which will feature more heavily when temperatures rise. This will offer consumers the message about using

100% Renewable energy in this cylinder

100% Renewable energy in this cylinder

Wicklow Rapeseed Oil Wicklow Rapeseed Oil has reported a 50% increase in sales of their high quality Irish Rapeseed Cooking Oil in 2018. Established in 2013 to bring the best quality Rapeseed Oil, with its healthy natural benefits, to the Irish market, the company has grown in line with the market and the Irish consumer’s appreciation of health focused products.

The brand has had a facelift for 2019 to celebrate its move into over 100 stores nationwide. Unveiling a modern look, the message remains the same, Taste the Difference, highlighting the premium brand with a sleek new design and a unique taste.

“We are delighted that the market is recognising Wicklow Rapeseed Oil as the healthy and most flavoursome cooking oil option,” states Keith Symes, CEO of Wicklow Rapeseed Oil. “It is my mission to ensure that our premium oil, maximising natural goodness, becomes a staple product in Irish homes. I have been brought up with a sense of pride in Irish produce. After all, there is nothing like harvesting golden fields, knowing that this product will make a difference to Irish people’s health and food enjoyment.”

Wicklow Rapeseed Oil is available in supermarkets as 500ml, 250ml bottles, 200ml 2Cal Spray and also has varieties with Lemon, Chilli and Garlic infused to add an extra dimension to cooking.

The recent introduction of 5lt, 20Lt and

Calor BioLPG is the only renewable gas which is available across Ireland and the new clean energy is available in Calor’s range of patio gas cylinders. renewable gas at the time when they are most likely to be thinking of running a BBQ. Dynamic advertising will apply online and across enabled outdoor media.

In addition to an above the line campaign, Calor and leading consumer brand, Irish Pride, will run an on-pack promotion through the summer months, encouraging local communities to become greener.

If you are interested in becoming a Calor stockist, call 1850 812 450 to speak to a member of the cylinder support team or visit calorgas.ie.

Wicklow Rapeseed Oil has unveiled a modern new look, highlighting the premium brand with a sleek new design.

1000lt catering range has attracted top restaurants and producers, such as the Powerscourt Hotel, Cavistons Food Emporium, The Lobster Pot, and Ard Bia in Galway, to name but a few.

38|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Summer Stocking: Smooch Ice Cream

Say Hello to Smooch Smooch is a nationally recognised ice cream brand that you can trust to turn your store into a destination.

€100,000 with a gross profit of 65%, according to the Brand Manager.

Smooch’s energetic marketing team supports the brand in-store with funky seasonal flavours and branded events, driving customers directly to your door.

“With a fanatical following on Instagram and a supportive Facebook community, we offer weekly shout-outs that guarantee increased in-store foot fall,” Smith proclaims. “As a team, we are passionate about all things ice cream. If you’re still not convinced, get in-touch with some of our retailers: if we can’t persuade you, they will.”

THE Smooch story began with an idea to sell premium ice cream, but the brand has proven so successful that it has now grown to providing fully managed services on their Gelmatic ice cream machines, as well as a fully managed Smooch brand concept.

In the process, Smooch has grown from a family run company to employing over 30 people, outgrowing its original premises and moving to a larger home in Bray, Co. Wicklow.

A Complete Service There are currently over 140 sites with the Smooch parlour concept, and the company plans to continue to roll-out this offering nationwide.

“Copied by many, Smooch remains the leading ice-cream solution, offering far more than just a name on the wall,” explains Alexandra Smith, Brand Manager. “We provide a complete managed service solution with our inhouse team of refrigeration engineers; we even clean your ice cream machine every month. All you do is top up the ice cream.

“Smooch is more than just a great tasting Irish dairy ice cream: we install, fit, supply and maintain your parlour so you get all the benefits without any of the hassle,” Smith continues.

Minimal Disruption The Smooch concept can be installed in-store with minimal disruption. In fact, their engineers are usually in and out of the shop within a single morning. They survey the existing retail

Smooch is a great tasting Irish dairy ice cream, without any of the hassle. space in advance and design the unit to minimise disruption, while their team of experienced fitters and technicians ensures everything goes to plan. All the Smooch team require from the retailer in advance is for water, waste and power connections to be available locally.

“We keep it simple and hassle free,” Smith explains. “We provide the latest in ice cream machine technology, offering remote WiFi automation - we’re inside your machine at all times, ensuring optimal quality and less down-time. With branded uniforms, regular training and re-training, we prioritise your store and it shows in your turnover!”

With an investment from as little as €12,995, your annual sales can exceed

There are currently over 140 sites with the Smooch parlour concept, and the company plans to continue to roll-out this offering nationwide.

FULLY MANAGED ICE CREAM SOLUTIONS

Call Smooch today for a fully managed service: 01 286 5000 Email: info@dairyglen.ie • www.mysmooch.ie

40|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Summer Stocking: Martin Food Equipment

Soft Ice Cream, Hard Profits Martin Food Equipment have a range of soft ice cream options for stores nationwide, including the Carpigiani ice cream machine, serving Angelito whipped ice cream, and Blizz stations custom built to fit any space.

MARTIN Food Equipment’s 2,400 successful soft ice cream customers nationwide appreciate how good the partnership of a Carpigiani ice cream machine, together with delicious Angelito ice cream, really is. Cones, desserts, sundaes, tubs, and freshly made milkshakes provide fantastic, fun year-round sales, providing up to 85% net margins per cone, making it the best profit generator in any retail outlet.

As retailers’ first choice, Angelito whipped ice cream is has been a favourite with young and old alike for over 40 years. “Angelito produces Martin Food Equipment are experts when it comes to ice cream, with 2,400 successful the highest yield of cones customers nationwide and a soft ice cream solution to suit every store type. per litre, is best tasting and better for you,” says Niall McCreanor, Marketing Manager, Martin Food cream, maximises year-round soft ice Artisan Gelato Equipment. “Lower in fat, salt, and cream profits. “Just like a miniature Martin Food Equipment are innovators calories, Angelito’s famous delicious ice cream parlour, Blizz combines all in all things ice cream, not only flavour can be enjoyed without the guilt. the traditional favourites with a new specialising in soft ice cream but Gluten free, it’s even ideal for the wheat on-trend menu of exciting desserts also the home of Artisan Gelato; intolerant.” customers adore. Whether customer customers are guided step byIndeed, research from Kerry Foods choose to lick it, slurp it, or spoon it, step through the processes involved in revealed that Angelito ice cream has they’ll love it!” McCreanor notes. introducing true Italian style gelato to 9% less calories, 20% less saturated fat With Carpigiani ice cream or their business offering. and 33% less salt than other soft serve milkshake machines from Martin Food Understanding what’s on-trend brands.

Equipment, the ice cream experts, and what will work in your business All Martin Food Equipment’s comes lots of support, including: when it comes to desserts, gelato, bespoke ice cream solutions come with milkshakes, waffles, crepes, slush, Carpigiani soft ice cream machines.

• Advice, design and menu toppings and treats has never been Small in size, big in profit, a Carpigiani development; more important. soft ice cream machine and Angelito • On-site staff training; For expert advice, remarkable is easy to integrate into any retail • Effective point-of- sale; menus and all you need in ice cream convenience store, service station or • Low cost finance packages design, layout, equipment, training business and provides maximum impact. available; and • New, second-hand and rental deals consumables contact: Fresh Profit Opportunities on Carpigiani ice cream machines; Martin Food Equipment, There’s never been a better time to • The best after-sales service with a The Ice Cream Experts whip up fresh profit with soft ice cream. nationwide team of factory trained Callsave 1850 30 36 36 or NI FreeFone Blizz, together with Angelito soft ice engineers.

0800 783 98 59.

Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie|41

Summer Stocking: Spirits

The Spirit of Summer Spirits are growing in popularity all the time, particularly as ingredients in cocktails.

IRISH drinks consumers have a clear growing taste for spirits, according to a new report from the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI). Spirits made up a 20.5% share of the alcohol product market in 2018, a 5.6% increase compared to the previous year.

There is little doubt that the spirits renaissance is in full swing, thanks to a number of factors, including the growth of cocktail culture in Ireland, the gin revolution and the Irish whiskey renaissance. There were four active distilleries in Ireland in 2013, now there are 24 in operation, with a further 24 in development. “An increase of 5.6% in the market share of spirits is no surprise and proves the determination of Irish distilleries,” noted Rosemary Garth, Chair of DIGI and Communications and Corporate Affairs Director at Irish Distillers.

Another trend that looks set to shine is the development of poitín, which will continue to build into a mainstream drinks category in 2019, according

to Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland. Poitin was illegal in Ireland from 1661 until 1997. Since Poitín has been legalised, it has been granted Geographical Indicative Status by the EU. This means that, like Irish Whiskey and Irish Cream Liqueur, it is protected at an EU level in a similar manner to Champagne in France or Parma hams in Italy. These three Irish GI spirits must be produced on the island of Ireland, in accordance with certain production practices and standards.

Ketel One Botanical Recognising this evolving trend towards offering consumers more balanced choices that appeal to their everchanging social lives, Diageo’s Ketel One is introducing a revolutionary new spirit that is set to shake up the spirits category in Ireland and across Europe this summer.

Family-made vodka brand, Ketel One, has launched Ketel One Botanical - a new spirit drink distilled with

botanicals and infused with natural fruit essences for a crisp, refreshing taste.

The first-of-its-kind product is set to establish a new sub-category that will rival traditional summer wine and spritz drinks, cutting through the aperitivo occasion.

Made with vodka, Ketel One Botanical has a lower ABV of 30%, with no artificial flavours, and contains 82 calories per serve. Its signature serve is with soda water for a Ketel One Botanical Spritz, meeting consumer demand for alcohol cocktails with a lower ABV and spritz-style drinks.

Ketel One Botanical is a series of three variants in beautifully illustrated, botanical-inspired bottles: Peach & Orange Blossom, Cucumber & Mint and Grapefruit & Rose.

The crafting of Ketel One Botanical starts with Ketel One Vodka, which is blended with the Nolet family's botanical recipe and re-distilled in small batch copper pot stills. The spirit is then infused with naturally-extracted

42|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Summer Stocking: Spirits Looking for a serving suggestion?

Try Baileys Strawberries & Cream poured over ice cream and topped with summer fruits for the ultimate in grownup summer indulgence.

Baileys Strawberries & Cream is available for a limited time only. RRP €22, 700ml/cl, 17% Alc/Vol.

Ketel One Botanical is a series of three variants in beautifully illustrated, botanical-inspired bottles: Peach & Orange Blossom, Cucumber & Mint and Grapefruit & Rose. essences of crisp, fragrant fruits and botanicals for a revolutionarily smooth, fresh-tasting drink.

"Just as our father redefined the possibilities for vodka with the exceptionally smooth crisp taste of Ketel One Vodka, we believe Ketel One Botanical sets a completely new standard in spirits," says Bob Nolet, 11th generation master distiller at the Nolet Distillery.

Carl Nolet Jr adds: "We've created a fresh-tasting, delicious new spirit that honours our family's legacy while reflecting the progressive values of today's conscious consumers. People care deeply about what they put in their bodies, which is why we care deeply about what goes into every bottle."

Launched in the US in May 2018, Ketel One Botanical is already a huge success story in the US market, ranked at No. 1, 2 & 3 in spirit innovation in the US10, and undoubtedly will see similar success as it launches across Ireland and Europe this summer.

Baileys Strawberries & Cream Consumers looking for an indulgent summer treat need look no further than Baileys Strawberries & Cream from Diageo Ireland. Perfectly blending the fresh and delicious taste of strawberries with light and creamy vanilla, together with the luxurious taste of Baileys Original Irish Cream, this dreamy combination is a truly fruity, indulgent way for consumers to treat their sweet tooth and is set to take the summer by storm.

Perfectly blending the fresh and delicious taste of strawberries with light and creamy vanilla, together with the luxurious taste of Baileys Original Irish Cream, Baileys Strawberries & Cream is available for a limited time only.

Ceder’s Non-Alcoholic Gin!

Graham Norton Gin Arguably Ireland’s favourite West Cork native, Graham Norton has joined forces with Ireland's leading independent wine and spirit company, Barry & Fitzwilliam, to distribute his award-winning GN range, including Graham Nortin Gin. Gin is one of his favourite tipples, so he really wanted to put his own Nortonesque twist on one. Graham wanted something that spoke of the splendour and beauty of West Cork, its countryside and its unique botanicals. The bottle shape and design have great stand-out and the gin speaks for itself!

Graham has launched an Irish Clear Gin and Irish Pink Gin - both gins

CEDER’S is a new distilled ‘Alt Gin’ that offers a non-alcoholic alternative for cocktails, and the much loved G&T, available in Ireland from Irish Distillers.

Created for those who are drinking less, or not drinking at all, its guilt free refreshment provides an everyday escape from busy modern life.

Handcrafted and bottled in Sweden, Ceder’s is made from classic gin and exotic South African botanicals, found only in the inspirational Cederberg Mountains of the Western Cape, South Africa. These Ceder’s Crisp, available in botanicals are combined with pristine Ireland, is a refreshing blend of Swedish water to create a unique drink juniper combined with citrus, that provides all the flavour of gin without cucumber and chamomile, an the alcohol.

‘Alt Gin’ offering a non-alcoholic Ceder’s was created by husband and alternative for cocktails. wife duo – Craig, from South Africa and Maria, from Sweden. The idea was born in early 2017, when they discovered a magical valley nestled in the Cederberg Mountains. The valley, which they now co-own, is home to many intriguing natural botanicals, including Rooibos and Buchu. It inspired them to distil classic gin and exotic Cape botanicals into a non-alcoholic alternative to gin. Fusing together their Swedish and South African roots, the duo created Ceder’s to tap into the large number of consumers who are actively trying to drink less.

“We are proud to launch Ceder’s and realise our ambition to create a hand-crafted alt-gin with natural botanical distillates and extracts,” said Craig Hutchison, founder and Managing Director of Ceder’s. “We want to satisfy those looking for a non-alcoholic serve without sacrificing premium and sophisticated flavour experiences.”

Ceder’s Crisp, available in Ireland, is a refreshing blend of juniper, combined with citrus, cucumber and chamomile, best served with premium tonic, sliced cucumber and fresh mint. It has zero sugar and is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Its Swedish style and perfection is juxtaposed with its wild South African botanicals, creating synergy and harmony for a characteristic alt-gin experience every day. Ceder’s Crisp is available now with an RRP of €25 per 500ml bottle.

Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie|43

Summer Stocking: Spirits

Graham Norton has launched an Irish Clear Gin and Irish Pink Gin - both gins celebrate the beauty and unique flavours of West Cork. celebrate the beauty and unique flavours of West Cork. Distilled and produced using 100% Irish grain, Graham Norton’s Own Irish Gin and Graham Norton’s Own Irish Pink Gin draw their flavours from a combination of 12 botanicals, including angelica, fuchsia flowers, orris roots, rose hip, basil and liquorice root - all of which contribute to the two gins, which are as unique as the man himself!

The Clear Gin is smooth and fragrant, with floral and berry sweetness mingled with fresh green undertones, capturing the hedgerows of West Cork with subtle hints of berry and fuchsia.

Consumers should enjoy this with Indian Tonic Water, lashings of ice and fresh lime to garnish.

The Pink Gin is smooth, fragrant with a touch of spice: floral, light berry sweetness with fresh undertones finishing with subtle hints of berry and wild rose. Consumers should enjoy it with Indian Tonic Water, lashings of ice and summer berries to garnish; it's particularly nice with sliced strawberries.

Jameson Jameson Irish Whiskey, which is produced by Irish Distillers in Midleton Distillery, has entered the top 10 of Impact magazine’s annual ‘Top 100 Premium Spirits Brands Worldwide’ list for the first time ever, after increasing sales 10% to a record 7.5m nine-litre cases in 2018. In addition, Jameson scored its 18th consecutive year on the

title’s ‘Hot Brands’ in the USA list, delivering 9% growth in the market as an established brand over the same period.

Entering the top 10 marks a milestone for the brand, which has added more than 2.5m cases and risen five places in the list over as many years, according to Impact Databank, which publishes the report each year in collaboration with the international drinks trade media magazine. Up from 11th place in 2018’s list, Jameson sits alongside Jägermeister in ninth and tenth place in the list, each reporting volume sales of 7.5m nine-litre cases.

Jameson is one of only two premium spirits brands in the top 10 to achieve ‘Hot Brand’ status – a curated list of brands that each sell a minimum of 200,000 cases in the USA and fulfil at least one of four sophisticated measurement methods designed by Impact.

Irish Distillers Wins at Renowned Competitions IRISH Distillers recently scooped a remarkable 11 Double Gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2019 – the strongest-ever haul for the family of Irish whiskeys crafted at Midleton Distillery, County Cork.

The prestigious competition honoured the Jameson family with six Double Gold medals, including for new release, Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Cask Strength, while the Redbreast and Midleton ranges collected three and two Double Gold medals respectively.

Redbreast 12 Year Old Cask Strength claimed its fourth double gold medal in a row, continuing the Redbreast legacy as the most decorated single pot still Irish whiskey in the world.

Success in San Francisco followed stand-out performances for the Midleton portfolio at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge, where new whiskeys Red Spot and Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Cask Strength stole the show, scoring 98 and 97 points respectively. Following a near-perfect score, Red Spot – which was re-introduced in November 2018 after 50 years – was awarded the Chairman’s Trophy for the single pot still Irish whiskey category.

“We are delighted to see such excellent results for Irish Distillers, with recognition at the highest level right across the portfolio,” noted Master Distiller Brian Nation. “The results are a true reflection of the passion, innovation and determination of the talented team at Midleton and hopefully signal the beginning of an exciting awards season.

We look forward to further success throughout 2019!”

Jameson Irish Whiskey continues to drive the growth of Irish whiskey around the world.

“Jameson has been driving the growth of the category for the past 29 years and continues to lead the Irish whiskey renaissance around the world,” noted Conor McQuaid, Chairman and CEO of Irish Distillers.

“The release of Impact magazine’s Top 100 and Hot Brands lists this year highlights the fact that Jameson now sells more than any Scotch whisky bar Johnnie Walker – further affirming the growing role and importance of Jameson and Irish whiskey on the global spirits stage.”

New Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Cask Strength, one of the Double Gold Medal winners.

44|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Summer Stocking: Spirits

New Gin from Irish Distillers Irish Distillers has unveiled Method And Madness Irish Micro Distilled Gin. IRISH Distillers has unveiled Method And Madness Irish Micro Distilled Gin, a bold step into the modern premium gin market and the first release from the Micro Distillery, Midleton. The new Method And Madness release pays homage to the historic links to gin in County Cork and underlines the company’s commitment to experimentation and innovation.

Bringing together the experience and expertise of Midleton’s Masters and Apprentices, Method And Madness Gin is the result of an exploration into historic gin recipes from 1798, which have been preserved at Midleton Distillery, along with months of research into how botanicals work together to create unique flavours in gin.

Overseen by Master Distiller, Brian Nation, and Apprentice Distiller, Henry Donnelly, the gin has been distilled in ‘Mickey’s Belly’, Ireland’s oldest gin still, first commissioned in 1958, at the Micro Distillery, Midleton. The new release benefits from an eclectic fusion of 16 botanicals led by black lemon and Irish gorse flower, imparting notes of citrus and spice with subtle earthy undertones.

An Incredible Journey “It has been an incredible journey over the past year in poring over our historic gin recipes, consulting with our Master Distiller Brian Nation and trialing different recipes in the Micro Distillery to bring Method And Madness Gin to life,” revealed Henry Donnelly, Apprentice Distiller at the Micro Distillery, Midleton.

“Midleton and Cork are steeped in gin heritage, so to be able to combine the knowledge and tools of the past with the skills of the present to create a gin for the future has been a real honour.”

Brian Nation, Master Distiller at Midleton Distillery, added: “The release of our Method And Madness Gin represents the next chapter in the

Master Distiller Brian Nation and Apprentice Distiller Henry Donnelly, Irish Distillers Micro Distillery, Midleton. story of us re-writing what a modern Irish spirits company can be. Through our work with the Apprentices at the Micro Distillery, Midleton, we continue to innovate and experiment with different grains, distillation methods and spirit

Method And Madness Irish Micro Distilled Gin benefits from an eclectic fusion of 16 botanicals, led by black lemon and Irish gorse flower.

types and look forward to sharing our creations with the world in the coming years. As a Cork native myself, bringing the spirit of premium Irish gin back to the city has been a personal highlight – and one that I look forward to enjoying being a part of for many years to come.”

Pushing the Boundaries Brendan Buckley, Innovation and Specialty Brands Director at Irish Distillers, concluded: “At the very core of Method And Madness is a commitment to push the boundaries of what we can achieve in Midleton Distillery, and I believe that taking a confident leap into the modern premium gin category is the very definition of this mindset.”

Taking inspiration from the famous Shakespearean quote, ‘Though this be madness, yet there is method in ’t’, Method And Madness is designed to reflect a next generation Irish spirit brand with a measure of curiosity and intrigue (Madness), while honouring the tradition and generations of expertise at the Midleton Distillery (Method).

Method And Madness Gin is bottled at 43% ABV and is available in Ireland and Global Travel Retail now at the RRP of €50 per 700ml bottle, ahead of a wider release in global markets from July.

MICRO DISTILLED.

MACRO TASTE.

46|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Summer Stocking: Wines

Best of the Summer Wine Jean Smullen looks at some good value wines to stock for summer.

FIGURES from Nielsen Scantrack to January 2019 give a good indication of current trends in terms of wine sales on the Irish market. These figures are for off trade sales, which account for 80% of total wine sales here.

The market on a MAT basis is still relatively flat, with a small overall increase in volume sales of +2.45% from January 2018. The top five countries of origin remain Chile, Australia, France, Spain and Italy.

Further down the table, volume and value sales are growing for New Zealand, the United States (which is basically California), South Africa, Argentina and Portugal. Interestingly enough the two countries showing the largest increase in terms of volume and value sales for the 12-month period Jan 2018 to Jan

2019 are South Africa and Portugal.

South Africa’s volume share of 6.2% has moved it ahead of California and New Zealand in terms of off trade sales. The biggest growth in terms of market share by far is for Portugal. Portuguese wines are showing a substantial increase year on year in terms of their volume and value share, albeit from a very low base; they still only have 0.97% of the total off trade market.

In terms of the top three wine brands, Santa Rita, Concha y Toro (Casillero del Diablo) and McGuigan all grew for the same period. Other key brands showing strong growth included [yellow tail], Gallo, Faustino, Brancott Estate, Oyster Bay and with the largest percentage in terms of growth for any wine brand, Argentina’s Finca las Moras, with their the Dada and Love ranges.

Now that summer has just about arrived, the lighter style of wines will come to the fore. White and Rosé wines are always very much in demand, as are lighter fruiter styles of red wines, such as wines made from grapes such as Pinot Noir or wines from the AOP Beaujolais.

Last summer’s heatwave gave us the warmest summer since 1976 and there was an unprecedented demand for wine from the off trade. Off trade wine

sales enjoyed a boom last summer as the consumer enjoyed the fine weather and entertained in their gardens. Rosé was the winner here, with demand for this very popular style of wine growing significantly, helped enormously by the fact that there was much more of it available. The Provençale style, lightly pink and dry, is the style of Rosé wine currently in great demand. Expect to see even more of it on our shelves this summer, with many “copy cat” versions becoming available.

A look at some of the trade offers that will be available in the coming months to off trade customers.

Barefoot Barefoot is the number one selling Californian wine brand in Ireland. Sales have increased more than 12-fold in the last six years alone, making Barefoot the fastest growing Californian wine brand in Ireland. Barefoot has grown organically in Ireland through supporting worthy causes with, for instance, the LGBT community, beach cleans with An Taisce and local charitable causes. Barefoot Pinot Grigio is particularly popular, and is now the number one New World Pinot Grigio sold in Irish supermarkets (Source: AC Neilsen, Scantrack, MAT data, 30/12/18).

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Summer Stocking: Wines There are a number of exciting upcoming Barefoot wine events this summer. This year, Barefoot Wine is proudly supporting The Pride Run, organised by the Dublin Front Runners. First held in 2012, it is now the leading LGBT sporting event in Ireland and one of the first events of the Dublin Pride calendar. In the last seven years, it has raised nearly €60k for charity.

Each year, they select charities Barefoot Pinot Grigio is the number that support the LGBT community. one New World Pinot Grigio sold in Barefoot Wine Irish supermarkets. is excited to be a Gold Sponsor at this event, their first year sponsoring this event, which they view as an exciting partnership, growing for years to come.

In 2019, Sea Sessions with Barefoot Wine will be moving into the festival’s 12th year. It has firmly established itself as Ireland’s only surf, music and lifestyle event and Barefoot Wine are the principal sponsors for the festival. Sea Sessions is recognised as a key summer event and one of Ireland’s top music festivals and has won the award at the IMRO Awards for Best Festival in Ireland, alongside several other key nominations.

Barefoot Wines are also delighted to sponsor the wines at the Fourth of July party that takes place annually at the US

Barefoot Wines are sponsoring a number of exciting events this summer including The Pride Run, Sea Sessions and the wines at the July 4 party in the US Embassy.

Embassy at the Phoenix Park.

“We want our wines to be varietally correct, fruit forward and food friendly,” says Barefoot Cellars Winemaker Jennifer Wall.

Casillero Del Diablo Casillero del Diablo achieved extraordinary recognition in the latest report published by the American wine critic James Suckling, with its Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc being awarded 90 points for their 2018 vintages.

This is the second time that Casillero del Diablo Cabernet Sauvignon has received this score, as well as being the first time it was highlighted as an “Amazing Value” wine.

As for the Sauvignon Blanc, it was the first time the wine received 90 points in the prestigious report.

Casillero del Diablo Cabernet Sauvignon was described as “an attractive red that shows citrus, blackcurrants and herbs.

Medium body, fine tannins and a crisp finish”, while 2018 describing the Sauvignon Casillero del Diablo’s Blanc as “a Reserva Cabernet fresh and Sauvignon: the hugely clean white popular Chilean that shows winery’s “emblematic green apples, variety”. melon and limes.

Light to medium body, zesty acidity and a fruity finish.”

“This news is without doubt an enormous endorsement of the work put in over decades, in which we have always been focused on seeking and achieving the best quality in our wines,” said Marcio Ramirez, Casillero del Diablo Winemaker.

Marcelo Papa, Technical Director of Concha y Toro, commented: “This reaffirms for the second year in a row the consistent quality of our emblematic variety, Cabernet Sauvignon, and makes clear the great quality of our white wines, exemplified with the 90 points obtained by Casillero del Diablo Sauvignon Blanc.”

With more than 30 years writing about different wines around the world, James Suckling is considered one of the most influential

S A UV I GNON B L A N C 2018

Casillero del Diablo Sauvignon Blanc received a 90-point score from James Suckling for the very first time. global wine critics. For many years, he was the editor at The Wine Spectator, one of the most celebrated magazines in the wine world and today he publishes his own website, jamessuckling.com.

Barry & Fitzwilliam New Zealand certainly performs well for Barry & Fitzwilliam.

Villa Maria, the biggest selling New Zealand wine brand on the Irish market in volume terms, is always in great demand. A family owned New Zealand winery, Villa Maria has been New Zealand's leading wine award winner, both nationally and internationally, since the early 1980s. The repositioning of the Private Bin Range has seen sales surge. Villa Maria is now the number one New Zealand wine brand on the market.

It is now in the 4th most admired wine brand in the world Villa Maria is according to Drinks the biggest International 2018. selling New Barry & Zealand wine Fitzwilliam will be brand on the offering a price Irish market in promotion offer for volume terms. the Private Bin

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Summer Stocking: Wines

Graham Norton Prosecco is sure to fly from shelves this summer. range. This includes the Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Riesling & Chardonnay. All the Villa Maria Private Bin varietals will be on offer, reduced from their normal RRP of €15 down to €11.

By 2018, one in every 10 bottles of New Zealand wine sold in Ireland was a Graham Norton wine.

One of the fastest growing New Zealand wine brands last year was the Graham Norton range. For his first vintage in 2014, New Zealand winery Invivo flew fresh picked Sauvignon Blanc grapes from Marlborough to London, to be squashed by Graham’s feet. That first wine was only available in New Zealand and sold out 14,000 bottles in a number of days The 2015 Vintage garnered a number of awards, including 90 points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, Silver Medals at the International Wine & Spirit competition and International Wine

McGuigan’s Black Label is one of the top selling Australian wine brands right across the country.

Challenge in London and a Double Gold at the 2015 China Wine & Spirits Awards.

By 2018, one in every 10 bottles of NZ wine sold in Ireland was a Graham Norton wine.

The Graham Norton Sauvignon Blanc will be on promotion at €12 (down from the RRP of €15) so expect strong sales this summer.

The Graham Norton range has expanded to include a Rosé, also produced in New Zealand, and it will also be available at a promotional RRP of €12.

Look out too for Australian’s biggest selling wine brand on the Irish market McGuigan. The Barry & Fitzwilliam Black Label have the Martin range comprises Codax Albariño of a Cabernet, on promotion this Shiraz, Merlot, summer.

Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Rose and Malbec, while the recently launched McGuigan Frizzante has proved hugly popular as a light style of sparkling

wine, full of lively yet delicate bubbles that give a crisp and refreshing sparkle.

The McGuigan Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio & Chardonnay will on promotion at RRP €9.

Spanish Albariño from the DO Rias Biaxas is another sought after white wine style. Barry & Fitzwilliam have the Martin Codax Albariño on promotion at €15, down from RRP €18.

Finally, for the wine aficionado, Consumer sherry’s moment interest in Tio has arrived, Pepe Fino sherry particularly the is growing, with lighter Fino style. the brand on Look out for Tio special offer this Pepe on offer at summer. €13: as the tapas culture grows, so too will the consumer’s interest in Fino sherry. This sherry will prove an excellent drink for summer months as it can be used to make a number of cocktails, like the Tiojito. The ultimate refresher sipped by the Jerez locals to keep their cool in the Andalusian sun, this is the original Fino cocktail, originating from a Rebujito, made from Tio Pepe, Lemonade, Mint & Ice. Gilbeys Wines The most popular Argentine wine on the Irish market, Doña Paula has been certified as a sustainable winery by the Sustainability Commission of Bodegas de Argentina. To date, only 10 Argentinean

Dona Paula is the most popular Argentine wine on the Irish market.

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Summer Stocking: Wines wineries have been certified. The Doña Paula Los Cardos Sauvignon Blanc and Malbec will be on offer until July.

Look out for the special case price offer of €76.

Santa Rita remains Ireland’s top selling wine brand for the fifth consecutive year. Gilbeys have their new very successful Rosé on offer at the moment. The Santa Rita Rosé launched in 2016 and was a double gold medal winner at the 2017 Rosé The early harvest Sauvignon Blanc from the Santa Rita 120 range will have a strong focus this summer.

Today Awards in the USA. Pale pink in colour with lovely summer fruit flavours, this Rosé has gained an enormous following since its launch. The Rosé and the early harvest Sauvignon Blanc from the Santa Rita 120 range will be given a strong focus this summer, with both available at a special case price of €73.

Sana Rita Rosé has gained an enormous following since its launch in 2016.

Comans Beverages Comans Beverages have new wines from their summer portfolio on offer, including the Californian Dark Horse and a French sparkling wine called Haute Couture. Dark Horse is one of Ireland’s fastest growing US wine brands. They recently added a Rosé wine to their award-winning portfolio which will be available this summer.

Dark Horse Rosé, a blend of Grenache, Barbera, Pinot Grigio, Tempranillo and Zinfandel, has an RRP of €15 and an ABV of 12%. The brand

Lillet: Wine Based French Apertifs LILLET, from Irish Distillers, is an awardwinning range of refreshing, wine-based, premium French aperitifs with a smooth, fruity taste that encapsulates the French lifestyle. A subtle blend of rigorously selected wines and fruit infusions, Lillet is crafted on-site in Podensac, a small village south of Bordeaux, using methods passed down since the nineteenth century.

Every year, Lillet carefully selects the best fruits, fruit peels and barks for their freshness and aromatic richness; sweet oranges from Turkey, Spain or Morocco, bitter oranges from Haiti, and quinine from South America. These are blended with red or white wine and other secret ingredients.

Lillet Blanc and Lillet Rouge cuvées spend several months in oak barrels, allowing the aromas to mellow and its unique Lillet is an award-winning characteristic taste to mature, while range of refreshing, wineLillet Rosé is bottled directly to keep its based, premium French aperitifs: freshness and lightness. a subtle blend of rigorously Founded in the sleepy village of selected wines and fruit Podensac in 1872, the brand took off infusions. internationally in the 1920s and 1930s when the family decided to export Lillet and focus on the US market. Lillet conquered New York high society and became loved by American bartenders, who used it in fashionable cocktails.

By the 1950s, Lillet’s elegant but rather deadly advocate was James Bond.

In the novel Casino Royale, author Ian Fleming credits 007 with the invention of a cocktail which he named the Vesper; a combination of gin, vodka and Lillet.

Today, Lillet is an essential ingredient in cocktail cabinets and bars across the world. At 17% ABV, it is a popular low alcohol choice at a time when 84% of global consumers are trying to reduce their alcohol intake. By 2025, it is expected that low alcohol will make up to 20% of alcohol segment volume.

Today, Lillet is best enjoyed as a spritz. Serve well chilled in a large wine glass full of ice cubes with added tonic water, fresh strawberries and lime.

Lillet is available in three variants, Lillet Rosé, Blanc and Rouge, with an RRP of €26 per 700ml bottle. was launched in the US in 2016 and since then has established itself as the number one premium rosé brand in the US, growing at an annual rate of 55%.

The Dark Horse range also includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc varietals, all have enjoyed

an impressive growth of 190% by volume sales in the past 12 months. Dark Horse is part of the E & J Gallo group.

Also new from Comans is Haute Couture, an expression of centuries-old French sparkling winemaking expertise.

Made using the méthode traditionelle, Haute Couture is pale pink in colour with flavours of juicy cherry, blackberry and raspberry. Look out for the special price offer on this range.

Dark Horse Rosé is the number one premium rosé brand in the US and is fast gaining share here.

Grace Campbell Wines With Portuguese wines on the cusp of success, one of the key importers of premium Portuguese wines into Ireland is Grace Campbell Wines. At a recent tasting, I re-acquainted myself with a few of Kevin O’Hara’s Alentejo producers, Herdade da Malhadinha Nova, Herdade dos Grous and Casa Relvas. I tasted through the range and was very impressed by the basic Grous

52|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Summer Stocking: Wines red and white wines. Look out too for wines from Casa Relvas who produce the best-selling Segredos de São Miguel and the Pimenta range of wines.

Febvre & Co Febvre have a number of their key brands on offer. Relatively new to their range and worth a look are the Greek wines, Ionos Roditis Muscat IGT Peloponesse and Ionos Cab Merlot IGT Peloponesse, both with an RRP of €10.

These are good value, easy drinking summer wines that would be perfect with any barbecue. Look out too for their offer on one of the Beaujolais region’s best known producers, Dubouef. The Duboeuf Beaujolais Village and the Duboeuf Fleurie are both on offer this summer.

From New Zealand, they have the wonderful Lawson’s Dry Hills Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc at €16.50 and from Burgundy, the Louis Latour Pinot Noir on offer at €17. Febvre also distribute one of South Africa’s most popular wine brands, Two Oceans. Look out for the Two Oceans Cabernet/Merlot and Two Oceans Sauvignon Blanc on offer at €8.

Faustino With over 150 years of history, the Faustino brand is a timeless classic in the wine world. Established in 1861 and steeped in the history of the Rioja region, the Faustino family are still at the helm of the business to this day. Set on 650 hectares, the Bodegas Faustino vineyards offer the exceptional qualities of chalky-clay soil and an ideal microclimate to produce the outstanding grape varieties that are used for the full Faustino range, including the iconic Gran Reserva.

Faustino is distributed Faustino Gran in Ireland by Reserva, an iconic Richmond wine for special Marketing. occasions.

10 International South Africa’s First Cape brand has a low alcohol rosé wine from California in its range. First Cape Light Zinfandel, with an ABV of 5.5%, meets the growing demand for low alcohol wines. Look out too for the First Cape Light Sauvignon Blanc, a fresh low alcohol white from South Africa with a 5.5% ABV. They also have an Italian First Cape Light Pinot Grigio in the range. With an RRP of €5, these are ideal summer wines and ticks all the boxes in terms of wine styles that will be in in demand.

The 2017 Luis Felipe Edwards Pinot Noir, with an ABV of 12.5%, from Chile is a lighter style of red wine that will be popular with the consumer this summer, especially with an offer price of RRP €8.

Counterpoint Ireland/Niche Vines Counterpoint Ireland and their new wine company, Niche Vines, are in the process of developing an interesting portfolio of wines with Paul Nolan, who previously worked for Findlater & Co. This summer, look out for Avantgarde Prosecco Doc Treviso Brut a dry, well-structured sparkling wine with a promotional price of €19.99.

Niche Vines have the iconic Australian brand, Kelly’s Patch. This award-winning Australian wine has strong Irish links. Named for Ned Kelly, whose had an Antrim mother and a Tipperary father, this well priced varietal range is worth a look.

The Kelly’s Patch range includes Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay, as well as Merlot and Shiraz. All of the wines in the range are currently on offer at €9.99. For more information, contact Niche Vines at Counterpoint Ireland: 1890 276468.

Classic Drinks English sparking wine is another new wine style currently growing in demand. Classic Drinks have just taken on the agency for Gusbourne Estate.

Gusbourne Estate have 60 hectares of vines at their Estate in Kent and another 30 hectares in West Sussex, planted with the three classic sparkling wine varieties, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Their debut vintages, Gusbourne Brut Reserve 2006 and Gusbourne Blanc de Blancs 2006, were released to critical acclaim.

Gusbourne quickly earned a reputation as a producer of outstanding quality sparkling wines. English sparkling wine is a premium product with prices similar to that of wines from the Champagne region. Expect to see more interest in this emerging wine style this summer.

Ampersand to Distribute McWilliam’s Wines

AMPERSAND has been announced as the new distributor of the McWilliam’s Wines Group portfolio in Ireland. The partnership will see Ampersand Wines distributing the McWilliam’s table and fortified wines and the iconic Mount Pleasant collections in both the off and on trade.

Head of International for McWilliam’s Wines Group, Garrick Harvison states: “During an extensive search, we were very impressed

by Ampersand’s experience in many different channels in Ireland, and equally by their know-how with Australian fine wines, having previously represented McWilliam’s in Ireland close to 20 years ago. We needed to find a skilled distributor who could articulate the provenance of our brands and the elegant wine styles the McWilliam’s family has been perfecting for over 140 years - no mean feat.

We are sure we have found the right partner.”

McWilliams’ wines continue to delight consumers with their distinctly cooler climate styles from some of Australia’s most exciting new wine regions.

“We are delighted at this partnership, “says Ampersand Wine Manager, Willie Dardis. “McWilliam’s is exactly the kind of wine partner we look to work with: family-owned and quality-driven, whose provenance and innovation is evident in a stunning line-up of wines. We already have an established successful and awardwinning international portfolio and we look forward to representing and developing McWilliam’s sales in Ireland once again.”

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Summer Stocking: Cider and Beer

Nectar of the Gods New brands are driving growth in the cider market, while beer remains the nation’s favourite alcoholic drink.

BEER remains the Irish nation's most popular drink, making up a 45.2% share of the alcohol product market last year, an increase of 2.7% in the volume of beer consumed in 2018, according to a new report by the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI).

The continued rise of craft beers and the explosion in popularity of low and no alcohol products have helped to maintain consumer interest in beers.

Where once the choice was stout, ale or lager, there is now a wealth of beer options available to the ever more knowledgeable consumer.

The cider market is increasing too, with new entrants shaking up this sector, which had remained relatively static for a long time. The same DIGI report found that cider’s market share increased slightly by 0.4% percent to 7.5% of all consumption.

The report, The Drinks Market

Performance 2018, authored by Dublin City University economist Anthony Foley and commissioned by the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland, found that the Irish drinks market is highly competitive and constantly evolving in line with consumer preferences and tastes. The Irish retail sector recorded an increase of 3.7% in sales volume in 2018, according to the report, which also found that average adult alcohol consumption in 2018 was just over 11 lpa (litres of pure alcohol), a tiny increase of 0.1% over 2017, and 23.2% lower than its peak of over 14.44 lpa at its peak in 2001.

Along with the warmer weather, summer brings some sales trends of its own when it comes to drinks, with a noted seasonal upsurge in cider sales.

Socialising and spending time with family and friends is high on the agenda of most consumers, with barbecues and al fresco get-togethers leading to more

sales opportunities for both food and drink products.

We all acknowledge that life is changing fast. How we socialise is also changing. What people expect their socialising to deliver is evolving significantly. Socialising is becoming more diverse in every sense, evidenced by the fact that 183m (7 in 10) people across Western Europe attended at least one festival or event in the last year (Diageo 2016 Festivals Research). As an industry, it’s important to consider the role we play in this trend to determine and secure future success at this pivotal time in the commercial calendar.

Sinead Conmy, Category Development Manager at Diageo, commented, “54% of millennials say they are always looking for new experiences and sensations that will liven up their everyday activities (Source: Kantar Futures). This cohort accounts for €2.1 trillion of global consumer spending (Source: Euromonitor) and therefore, the challenge is clear - we need to deliver products that appeal to this audience and to connect the product with the occasion.”

While exploring these trends

54|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Summer Stocking: Cider and Beer relating to how we socialise, it is important to note the growth of responsible consumption, whether we are entertaining at home or dining out.

Consumers are now demanding more health, craft and sustainability products (Source: MCA April 2018), with 63% of consumers actively taking steps to improve their health (Source: Diageo Kantar Futures Global Monitor 2017).

“Health-conscious consumers are increasingly seeking more balanced choices and new ways to enjoy alcohol.

A clear example of this is in the sales of alcohol-free beer. In Ireland, non-alcohol beer increased by 123% value sales from February 2017 to February 2018, and is now worth over €7m retail sales in the take home trade," explained Conmy.

That’s ‘The Joy In Simple’.

This summer, Appleman’s launches a through-the-line campaign, including TV, out-of-home and social, with a new look-and-feel, and self-deprecating tone of voice.

Appleman’s has an ABV of 4.5% and is available nationwide in 500ml bottle & can and 8 pack can. For more information, see www.applemanscider.ie

Bulmers After the fabulous summer of 2018, Irish consumers have developed a taste for good weather – and thirst quenching, refreshing tasting Bulmers was central to toasting that good weather!

With temperatures topping 32°C in parts of the country, the highest recorded since 1946, Bulmers’ volume in the off trade jumped 23% versus the Appleman’s summer of 2017 (Source: AC Nielsen, Off Some people find cider too sweet.

Trade Volume, Jun/Jul/Aug, 2017/2018).

Others find cider too dry. So, Heineken Bulmers is a true original, the Ireland, the company behind Orchard original Irish cider, central to the Thieves, created a cider that’s not too evolution of the cider category and its Bulmers is getting ready for another sweet and not too dry: simple. premium positioning in the market, and bumper summer in 2019.

Appleman’s is a beautifully simple, is getting ready for another bumper An authentic and refreshing cider, perfectly balanced cider that offers summer in 2019. staying true to its roots has always a true apple taste. Appleman's won't Bulmers started 2019 on a winner, been Bulmers’ philosophy and its roots change your life, but it will change your or rather a series of winners, with its are firmly embedded in the Bulmers’ choice of cider. That’s the hope anyway. sponsorship of the Cheltenham Festival orchards of Clonmel. This land, and The Cheltenham Bulmers Ciderland, is where 17 varieties of apple Gold Cup - which will forever are grown and harvested to create a be remembered following traditional blend of Ireland’s number trainer Willie Mullins’ historic one cider. Ciderland is the embodiment win with now legendary of the Bulmers world where, for more horse, Al Boum. than 80 years, generations of workers With the first of a fourhave been producing Original Irish Cider. year sponsorship deal with Ciderland also embodies a moment, a one of the most famous feeling, a state of mind. With the best of racing festivals in the world, friends, in the best of places, alive to the Bulmers’ initiated a 360° energy. marketing campaign that included a brand new TV ad on air, a comprehensive digital plan and both on-trade and off-trade consumer promotions.

Bulmers Appleman’s is a beautifully simple, perfectly drinkers love balanced cider that offers a true apple taste. sport but they also love music This beautifully-made cider, and the brand will once developed specifically for Irish people’s again capture the sounds of tastes, is here to make social times the summer with the awardsimpler again. With a clear choice of winning Bulmers Forbidden better, beautifully balanced cider, you’ll Fruit Festival and Body and spend less time choosing, which means Soul in June, All Together Bulmers will reflect its long Irish heritage in its more time to really enjoy yourself. More Now in August and Bulmers marketing campaigns and its new packaging, time catching up. More time to laugh, Live at Leopardstown which marry all of Bulmers’ important attributes unwind and savour. To bask in the breaks providing top class racing of Irishness and heritage with 21st Century from life’s demands. More time to relish and music entertainment Ireland. pure enjoyment. right across the summer.

Appleman’s won’t change your life, but it will change your cider.

Simple.

56|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Summer Stocking: Cider and Beer “This heritage is the heartbeat of the Bulmers brand and having spoken to our customers and consumers, it’s clear that this is what resonates most with them too,” said Duncan Millar, Sales Director, Bulmers. “So we are going back to our roots in 2019 and focusing on the things that are synonymous with Bulmers through the years; the iconic Dowd’s Lane Cidery VATs, the orchards and all of the vibrancy and colour that embody our Irishness and brand heritage.

“This will be reflected in our marketing campaigns, some exciting new innovations in 2019 and on our new packaging, which marry all of Bulmers’ important attributes of Irishness and heritage with 21st Century Ireland.”

Rockshore Irish Cider The brewers of Rockshore Irish lager at St James’ Gate recently unveiled Rockshore Apple Cider, which offers the light, crisp, refreshing taste that

New Rockshore Apple Cider offers the light, crisp, refreshing taste that Rockshore lager is known for, with a less sweet taste than other cider.

Rockshore lager is known for, with a less sweet taste than other cider.

“We have been experimenting and trialling cider recipes for several years and we believe that we have landed on something refreshingly different,” said Stuart Kinch, Head of Marketing for Beer & Cider, Diageo. “We undertook research among cider drinkers at The Open Gate Brewery and the reaction was even

Guinness Removes Plastic Packaging from Beer Packs IN a bold sustainable move, Diageo is investing €18.5m (£16m) to reduce the amount of plastics used in its beer packaging by removing the plastic ring carriers and shrink wrap from its multipacks of Guinness, Harp, Rockshore and Smithwick’s.

Diageo’s bottling Pictured from left at the St. James’s Gate brewery with the new packaging is Oliver Loomes, Country Director and packaging plant in Northern of Diageo Ireland and Orla Gill, Brewer.

Ireland will be the first site that will be up and running with the new packs, with the business investing €9.25m (£8m) in its facility in East Belfast.

The new packs will be on-shelf on all beer brands in the island of Ireland from August 2019 and from Summer 2020 in Great Britain and the remaining export markets. Currently under 5% of Diageo’s total packaging is plastic and this change will reduce Diageo’s plastic usage by over 400 tonnes annually.

This is the equivalent of removing 40 million 50cl plastic bottles from the world, which, if laid out in a row, would reach from London to Beijing (8,136km).

The multi-can packs will be replaced by cardboard packs, which are sustainably sourced, recyclable and fully biodegradable. Individual cans are fully recyclable, including the widget which is contained inside cans of Draught Guinness.

“Managing our environmental impact is important for the planet and the financial sustainability of our business,” said Oliver Loomes, Country Director of Diageo Ireland. “For 260 years, Guinness has played a vital role in the communities around us. We already have one of the most sustainable breweries in the world at St James’ Gate and we are now leading the way in sustainable packaging. This is good news for the environment and for our brand.”

David Cutter, Diageo’s Chief Sustainability Officer and President, Global Supply & Procurement, added: “Great packaging is essential for our products.

Consumers expect our packs to look beautiful, be functional, and sustainable.

I am proud to announce this investment, through which we have been able to combine all three. We have been working tirelessly to make our packaging more environmentally friendly and I’m thrilled with this outcome for Guinness and our other global beer brands.” better than we expected. Seven out of 10 people, after tasting Rockshore Cider for the first time, said that it tastes better than any other cider they tasted before.

We are really proud and excited that cider drinkers will now have a new crisp and less sweet choice with Rockshore Apple Cider.”

The independent taste test research was conducted by Kantar TNS in October 2018, amongst 159 male and female cider drinkers aged between 18 and 64 years, and also found that 90% of people said they would consider buying it after tasting it.

Rockshore Apple Cider is made from the juice of freshly pressed apples.

The apples are harvested, milled and pressed to extract the fresh apple juice, which is then fermented within five days, producing a crisp, refreshing taste with a distinctive natural green apple character.

Carlsberg Unfiltered Carlsberg has launched Carlsberg Unfiltered into Ireland. The new beer is inspired by Danish values of simplicity and connection with nature; its name reflects how the lager is made.

The brewers have removed the

Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie|57

Summer Stocking: Cider and Beer

Carlsberg Unfiltered is a premium, great tasting, cloudy pilsner with subtle floral and hop notes.

for its living eco billboard, later this month. The billboard, which features an array of 1,300 plants in the heart of Dublin City Centre, was installed as part of Carlsberg’s Together Towards Zero green agenda. Eclipse and Plant Up were behind the special build, in partnership with PML Group.

Once the billboard is removed, the 50 plant species will be distributed amongst, Bridgefoot Street Community Garden, the St James’ Gate Millennium Community Garden and the new Roe & Co Distillery gardens in an attempt to give a bit of greenery back to the Dublin 8 area, the home of Carlsberg Ireland.

Carlsberg Unfiltered is now available in 500ml cans and 330ml bottles.

family home in Co. Meath yield some of the finest quality cider apples in Ireland and these are used in the production of Cooneys Irish Cider. Using their own spring water and honey bees ensures that from blossom to bottle, you get the finest and most refreshing Irish apple cider.

Richard Hamilton, Creative Brewer with Boyne Brewhouse, said, “We’re delighted to have won these awards.

We take great pride in ensuring that we use only the best ingredients and our own Boyne Valley spring water to make our craft beers. A lot of time has been taken to perfect our recipes and winning these acclaimed awards is testament to the quality of these ingredients, brewing styles and inspirations.”

Boyne Brewhouse Boyne Brewhouse has won eight awards at the seventh annual Dublin Craft Beer and Cider Cup competitions hosted by the Alltech Craft Brews and Food Fair.

The award wins included a Gold medal and Best in Speciality Category for its Saison beer and two Silver medals for

YellowBelly Citra Pale Ale Yellowbelly Beer's Citra Pale Ale has been named Beer of the Year for 2019 by Beoir, Ireland's independent consumer group for craft beer. “I am delighted and proud. This is a testament to the hard work of the entire YellowBelly

filtration process, which leaves more natural flavours and body in the lager.

The result is a premium, great tasting, cloudy pilsner with subtle floral and hop notes - offering beer drinkers a brandnew taste experience that is unlike anything else in the category.

Carlsberg Marketing Manager, Alan McAleenan said, “We know from the explosion of new beers on the market that Irish consumers are demanding more from their choices in lager.

They’re looking for products which are simpler, stripped back and there’s a real curiosity and desire to explore more natural tastes.”

Carlsberg Unfiltered will repurpose a variety of plants that are being used

Yellowbelly Beer's Citra Pale Ale was named Beer of the Year for 2019 by Beoir, the independent Irish consumer group for craft beer.

The award-winning Imperial Stout from Boyne Brewhouse.

The Carlsberg Unfiltered living eco billboard features an array of 1,300 plants in the heart of Dublin City Centre, installed as part of Carlsberg’s Together Towards Zero green agenda.

Imperial Stout and the limited edition Raspberry Sour.

The Boyne Brewhouse also won a bronze medal for Cooneys Irish Cider 4.5%, which is produced at the Drogheda facility, in the Dublin Craft Cider Cup awards. The orchards at the Cooney

family,” said Nicky Lambert, Managing Director of YellowBelly Beer. “In just three and a half years, we have evolved from a tiny brewery in the basement of a pub to an award-winning brewery with national distribution in Ireland and also distribution across eight export markets in Europe. Beoir, and its members, have supported us from the very beginning and we can't thank them enough.”

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HEINEKEN IRELAND AND GIY HELP FIELD OF DREAMS TO GROW

REVOLUTIONISING BAKERY FOR THE GLUTEN INTOLERANT

HEINEKEN Ireland and GIY (Grow it Yourself) are teaming up again as part of Heineken’s Growing with our Communities sustainability initiative to support two star causes; the Down Syndrome Cork Field of Dreams project in Curaheen and WALK in Dublin, a not for profit that empowers people with disabilities to live self-determined lives. Field of Dreams is a project that has been pioneered by Down Syndrome Cork, whereby three acres of land at Curaheen has been transformed from a green-field site into a horticulture centre where adults with Down Syndrome can work and learn valuable life-long skills. Sharon Mulcahy, Project Development Manager at Field of Dreams, is pictured with Barbara Anne Richardson, Communications and CSR Manager at Heineken Ireland, at Field of Dreams HQ in Curaheen, Cork.

Thursday 18th April 2019

IRISH bakery brand Promise Gluten Free is relaunching its brand previously known as Purebred with a new selection of breads that will be a game-changer for those on a gluten-free diet.

Re-invented by its master bakers, this new artisanal sourdough offering brings soft texture, strong nutritionals, and much enhanced full-sized slices. The new Promise Gluten Free breads include White Vegan, Multigrain & Chia & Quinoa Sourdough priced €3.89 (RRP). For more information, see www.promiseglutenfree.com.

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ZK dK h & hZK ϮϬϮϬΡ PANINI LAUNCHES ROAD TO UEFA EURO Z E >zE y>Ρ K&&/ / > dZ /E' Z K>> d/KE 2020 COLLECTION

ŽůůĞĐƚ͕ WůĂLJ͕ dƌĂĚĞ͊ PANINI are excited to announce the

WĂŶŝŶŝ ĂƌĞ ĞdžĐŝƚĞĚ ƚŽ ĂŶŶŽƵŶĐĞ ƚŚĞ ůĂƵŶĐŚ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ h & ZŽĂĚ ƚŽ ƵƌŽ ϮϬϮϬΡ launch of the UEFA Road to Euro KĨĨŝĐŝĂů dƌĂĚŝŶŐ ĂƌĚ ŽůůĞĐƚŝŽŶ͘ dŚĞ ƌĂĐĞ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ϮϬϮϬ ƵƌŽƉĞĂŶ ƚŝƚůĞ ƐƚĂƌƚƐ ŚĞƌĞ͕ ǁŝƚŚ Ă ďƌĂŶĚͲŶĞǁ ǀĞƌƐŝŽŶ ŽĨ ĚƌĞŶĂůLJŶ y>Ρ ĚĞƐŝŐŶĞĚ ƚŽ ƐŚŽǁĐĂƐĞ ƚŚĞ 2020 Official Trading Card Collection. ƚŽƉ ŶĂƚŝŽŶĂů ƚĞĂŵƐ ŝŶ ƵƌŽƉĞ͕ Ăůů ƌĞĂĚLJ ƚŽ ƚĂŬĞ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŝĞůĚ ĂŶĚ ĐŽŵƉĞƚĞ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ĨŝŶĂů ƐƚĂŐĞ ŽĨ h & hZK ϮϬϮϬΡ͘ The race for the 2020 European

tŝƚŚ ZŽĂĚ ƚŽ h & hZK ϮϬϮϬΡ͕ ƚŚĞ ĚƌĞŶĂůLJŶ y>Ρ ƐĞƌŝĞƐ ŐĂŝŶƐ Ă ŚŝŐŚůLJ title starts here, with a brand-new ƉƌĞƐƚŝŐŝŽƵƐ ƚŝƚůĞ͕ ĨĞĂƚƵƌŝŶŐ ƐŽŵĞ ŽĨ ĨŽŽƚďĂůů͛Ɛ ďĞƐƚ ƉůĂLJĞƌƐ ĂŶĚ ŚŝŐŚĞƐƚͲ version of Adrenalyn XL designed to ƌĂŶŬŝŶŐ ŶĂƚŝŽŶƐ͘ Ɛ ǁĞůů ĂƐ tŽƌůĚ ŚĂŵƉŝŽŶƐ &ƌĂŶĐĞ ĂŶĚ ĐƵƌƌĞŶƚ ƵƌŽƉĞĂŶ ŚĂŵƉŝŽŶƐ WŽƌƚƵŐĂů͕ ŝƚ ĨĞĂƚƵƌĞƐ ƚŽƉ ƚĞĂŵƐ ƐƵĐŚ ĂƐ ĞůŐŝƵŵ͕ ƌŽĂƚŝĂ͕ showcase the top national teams in ŶŐůĂŶĚ ĂŶĚ 'ĞƌŵĂŶLJ͘ WůƵƐ͕ ƚŚĞƌĞ ĂƌĞ ƚĞĂŵƐ ŬĞĞŶ ƚŽ ƌĞĂƐƐĞƌƚ ƚŚĞŵƐĞůǀĞƐ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ƵƌŽƉĞĂŶ ƐƚĂŐĞ͕ ƐƵĐŚ ĂƐ /ƚĂůLJ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ EĞƚŚĞƌůĂŶĚƐ͕ ĂŶĚ ƵƉͲĂŶĚͲ Europe, all ready to take to the field ĐŽŵŝŶŐ ƚĂůĞŶƚƐ ůŽŽŬŝŶŐ ƚŽ ĐůĂŝŵ ƚŚĞŝƌ ƉůĂĐĞ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƐƉŽƚůŝŐŚƚ͕ ŝŶĐůƵĚŝŶŐ ^ǁŝƚnjĞƌůĂŶĚ͕ WŽůĂŶĚ ĂŶĚ ŵĂŶLJ ŽƚŚĞƌƐ͘ and compete in the final stage of

^ƚĂƌƚĞƌ WĂĐŬƐ͗ άϱ͘ϵϵ ƌƌƉ ນ dƌĂĚŝŶŐ ĂƌĚ WĂĐŬĞƚƐ͗ άϭ͘ϬϬ ƌƌƉ UEFA Euro 2020. Says Mike Riddell,

DŝŬĞ ZŝĚĚĞůů͕ DĂŶĂŐŝŶŐ ŝƌĞĐƚŽƌ ŽĨ WĂŶŝŶŝ h<͗ ͞tĞ ĂƌĞ ĞdžĐŝƚĞĚ ƚŽ ĂŶŶŽƵŶĐĞ Managing Director of Panini UK: ƚŚĞ ůĂƵŶĐŚ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ h & ZŽĂĚ ƚŽ ƵƌŽ ϮϬϮϬΡ ĐŽůůĞĐƚŝŽŶ ǁŚŝĐŚ ĨĞĂƚƵƌĞƐ ƉůĂLJĞƌƐ ĨƌŽŵ Ăůů ƚŚĞ ŚŽŵĞ ŶĂƚŝŽŶƐ ĂƐ ǁĞůů ĂƐ ZĞƉƵďůŝĐ ŽĨ /ƌĞůĂŶĚ͘ tŝƚŚ ƐŽ ŵĂŶLJ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ĨŝŶĂůƐ ƚĂŬŝŶŐ ƉůĂĐĞ ŝŶ ŶŐůĂŶĚ͕ ^ĐŽƚůĂŶĚ ĂŶĚ “We are excited to announce the ZĞƉƵďůŝĐ ŽĨ /ƌĞůĂŶĚ ƚŚŝƐ ƉƌŽŵŝƐĞƐ ƚŽ ďĞ ůŝŬĞ Ă ŚŽŵĞ ƚŽƵƌŶĂŵĞŶƚ ĂŶĚ ŝƐ Ă ŵƵƐƚ ĨŽƌ Ăůů ĐŽůůĞĐƚŽƌƐ͘͟

launch of the UEFA Road to Euro 2020 collection which features dŚĞ ƚƌĂĚŝŶŐ ĐĂƌĚ ĐŽůůĞĐƚŝŽŶ ǁŝůů ďĞ ďĂĐŬĞĚ ďLJ Ă ŵƵůƚŝͲĐŚĂŶŶĞů ŵĂƌŬĞƚŝŶŐ ĐĂŵƉĂŝŐŶ ŝŶĐůƵĚŝŶŐ Ă ŚĞĂǀLJǁĞŝŐŚƚ ŶĂƚŝŽŶĂů ds ĐĂŵƉĂŝŐŶ͘ dŚĞƌĞ ǁŝůů ďĞ Ă ƐŝŐŶŝĨŝĐĂŶƚ ŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚ ŝŶ ƐĂŵƉůŝŶŐ ŶĂƚŝŽŶǁŝĚĞ ĂƐ ǁĞůů ĂƐ ŵĂƌŬĞƚŝŶŐ ĂĐƌŽƐƐ ĚŝŐŝƚĂů ƉůĂƚĨŽƌŵƐ ĂŶĚ players from all the home nations as well as Republic of Ireland. ŵĂŐĂnjŝŶĞ ĐŽǀĞƌ ŵŽƵŶƚ ĂĐƚŝǀŝƚLJ͘ dŚĞƌĞ ǁŝůů ďĞ ĂŶ ŝŶƚĞŐƌĂƚĞĚ WZ ĂŶĚ ƐŽĐŝĂů ŵĞĚŝĂ ĐĂŵƉĂŝŐŶ ŝŶĐůƵĚŝŶŐ ĂĐƚŝǀĂƚŝŽŶ ǁŝƚŚ ŬĞLJ ŝŶĨůƵĞŶĐĞƌƐ͘ dŚĞƌĞ ǁŝůů ďĞ ǁŝĚĞƐƉƌĞĂĚ ƐƵƉƉŽƌƚ ĨŽƌ ƌĞƚĂŝů ŝŶ ƚĞƌŵƐ ŽĨ WK^ ĂŶĚ ƌĞƚĂŝů ƐĂŵƉůŝŶŐ ŝŶŝƚŝĂƚŝǀĞƐ͘ With so many of the finals taking place in England, Scotland and

Republic of Ireland, thisǁǁǁ͘ƉĂŶŝŶŝĂĚƌĞŶĂůLJŶ͘ĐŽŵ promises to be like a home tournament &ŽůůŽǁ ƵƐ ŽŶ dǁŝƚƚĞƌ͗ ΛKĨĨŝĐŝĂůWĂŶŝŶŝ ͮ &ĂĐĞŬ Θ /ŶƐƚĂŐƌĂŵ͗ WĂŶŝŶŝh<KĨĨŝĐŝĂů and is a must for all collectors.” Ͳ

ďŽƵƚ WĂŶŝŶŝ͗ WĂŶŝŶŝ 'ƌŽƵƉ ǁĂƐ ĞƐƚĂďůŝƐŚĞĚ ĂůŵŽƐƚ ϲϬ LJĞĂƌƐ ĂŐŽ ŝŶ DŽĚĞŶĂ͕ /ƚĂůLJ͘ /ƚ ŚĂƐ ƐƵďƐŝĚŝĂƌŝĞƐ ƚŚƌŽƵŐŚŽƵƚ ƵƌŽƉĞ͕ >ĂƚŝŶ ŵĞƌŝĐĂ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ hŶŝƚĞĚ ^ƚĂƚĞƐ͘ /ƚ͛Ɛ ƚŚĞ ǁŽƌůĚ ůĞĂĚĞƌ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƉƵďůŝƐŚĞĚ ĐŽůůĞĐƚĂďůĞ ƐĞĐƚŽƌ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ ůĞĂĚŝŶŐ ŵƵůƚŝͲŶĂƚŝŽŶĂů ƉƵďůŝƐŚĞƌ ŽĨ ĐŽŵŝĐƐ͕ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ͛Ɛ ŵĂŐĂnjŝŶĞƐ͕ ĂŶĚ ŵĂŶŐĂ ŝŶ ƵƌŽƉĞ ĂŶĚ >ĂƚŝŶ ŵĞƌŝĐĂ͘ dŚĞ ĐŽŵƉĂŶLJ ŚĂƐ ĚŝƐƚƌŝďƵƚŝŽŶ ĐŚĂŶŶĞůƐ ŝŶ ŵŽƌĞ ƚŚĂŶ ϭϱϬ ĐŽƵŶƚƌŝĞƐ ĂŶĚ ĐŽƵŶƚƐ Ă ƐƚĂĨĨ ŽĨ ŽǀĞƌ ϭϮϬϬ ƉĞŽƉůĞ͘ &Žƌ ŵŽƌĞ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƚŝŽŶ͕ ǀŝƐŝƚ ǁǁǁ͘ƉĂŶŝŶŝŐƌŽƵƉ͘ĐŽŵ Ͳ &Žƌ ĨƵƌƚŚĞƌ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƚŝŽŶ͕ ƉůĞĂƐĞ ĐŽŶƚĂĐƚ͗ :ĞƐƐŝĐĂ Ğůů WĂŶŝŶŝ h<͕ ƌŽĐŬďŽƵƌŶĞ ,ŽƵƐĞ͕ ϳϳ DŽƵŶƚ ƉŚƌĂŝŵ͕ dƵŶďƌŝĚŐĞ tĞůůƐ͕ <ĞŶƚ dEϰ ϴ ^ ນ dĞů͗ ϬϭϴϵϮ ϱϬϬϭϬϬ

QUORN UNVEILS FOUR NEW VEGAN LINES

QUORN is unveiling the latest phase of its 2019 innovation pipeline with four new products suitable for vegans. Available in Tesco, the new range includes Quorn Fishless Fillets (200g / rrp €3.50) in two varieties, Battered Fishless Fillets with a Salt & Vinegar Crispy Batter, and Breaded Fishless Fillets with a Lemon Pepper Breadcrumb; Quorn Ultimate Burger (227g / rrp €3.50), which is suitable for vegans and comprises two great-tasting, thick cut quarter pounders that are succulent with the juice of “beets”; and Quorn Vegan Cumberland Sausages (300g / €3.00) which are high in protein and a source of fibre.

FOREST FEAST LAUNCHES SWIMMING CAMPAIGN FOLLOWING the success of its inaugural swimming campaign in 2018, and building on nine years of supporting youth swimming through its AquaSprint sponsorship, Forest Feast is back with a splash with a new campaign to encourage Irish families to go nuts about swimming. The premium dried fruit, nut, and seed snack brand has launched #NutsAboutSwimming, a six-week campaign designed to increase engagement levels across the brand’s social communities, promote healthy, active lifestyles and attract new followers, with a view to driving in-store consideration. The family-orientated campaign is centred around a social media competition to win a family stay at the four-star Roe Park Resort in Limavady (pictured), which boasts a family friendly pool. The campaign will also see the snack brand team up with local influencers for a learn-to-swim challenge which will include weekly social media and blog posts, as well as mini competitions on the blogger’s channels to highlight the campaign and engage with followers and encourage other families to get swimming.

THE HAPPY PEAR LAUNCH NEW COMPOSTABLE POUCHES FOR GRANOLA AND SPROUTS THE Happy Pear have launched new compostable pouches for their granola and compostable tubs for their sprouts. The new compostable pouches replace plastic tubs and are now available in SuperValu stores nationwide. The Happy Pear have a team dedicated to sustainable packaging and over the last year, they have extensively reviewed their packaging and moved to more sustainable solutions. They continue to look for sustainable packaging solutions for their products, which also ensures the quality of the food inside isn’t compromised in any way. Steohen and David Flynn are pictured at the launch of the new compostable pouches.

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Forecourt Focus: Interview

Maxol Chief Unveils Future Development Plans Brian Donaldson, CEO of The Maxol Group, explains how the company is preparing for the future of fuel service.

THE McMullan family has been meeting fuel needs in Ireland for almost 100 years. The world has changed dramatically since James and William McMullan signed their first supply agreement, but some things have stayed the same, in particular the family’s commitment to Maxol and the commitment of the Maxol Group to serving fuel needs on the island of Ireland.

The fuel service sector in Ireland faces not only the possibility, but the inevitability, of significant disruption to the market. The forecourt sector in Ireland has become far more foodservice focused than ever before in its history and standards in the Irish market are amongst the highest in the world. The rise in numbers of hybrid and electric vehicles on the roads will continue and it will change how we use the forecourts of the future.

Investing in the Network The 2017 figures for the Maxol Group showed a 2017 turnover of €607m, with €13.6m profit, while the figures for 2018 show double digit growth in profits. Maxol has invested €128m in its network between 2012 and 2017, with a further €100m investment confirmed for additional redevelopments by 2020.

In 2019, the company is investing €37m in its network, including large redevelopments in Enniscorthy, which was completed in March 2019, Dolphins Barn in Dublin, which is underway, and Clarecastle, in Mayo, which is scheduled for completion in August, following a €4m investment.

In Dublin, Maxol has completed redevelopments this year at Harold’s Cross, Turvey, M3 Mulhuddart, Ballycoolin, Mespil Road, Lucan and Adamstown, with plans for the new-look at Maxol Sandyford due to be completed

in June of this year.

“Maxol operates in an incredibly competitive market so we’re constantly looking at ways we can redesign and reshape our model to future proof our business, with the main aim of transforming from being a fuel provider to a full convenience retail fuel offering,” explained Brian Donaldson, Maxol Group CEO. “This hasn’t happened overnight; we have been investing heavily in the redevelopment of our service stations right across Ireland for the last number of years and the hard work is paying off, leading Brian Donaldson, CEO, The Maxol Group. to strong trading performance. growing its share of income from food.

Maxol remains as ambitious as ever and This is evident through the introduction we are constantly looking at ways we can of additional dining options that give differentiate, diversify and evolve.” customers more choice across different times of the day, including Freshly New Own Label Range Chopped, Abrakebabra, Zambrero, Over the last seven years, Maxol has Insomnia, the new-look Maxol Deli and been paving the way to a more healthy the advent of Maxol’s own-brand range, fresh food offering with multiple options, including pre-packed sandwiches and increasing the choice for customers and

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Forecourt Focus: Interview facilities are becoming increasingly important and shortly we will be trialling mobile payment technology, removing the need for traditional card readers.”

The need for car washes will never dissipate and the car wash is an important part of the company’s business.

Maxol has installed cashless car washes at 18 of its service stations, through its partnership with mobility solutions specialist, easytrip; easyWash is a drive-in car wash and go solution for customers, without the need to get out of their car. A further 15 easyWash locations will follow over the coming months.

“We serve the communities of Ireland rather than relying on Colin Delaney, CEO of easytrip, and Brian Donaldson, CEO, The Maxol Group, are pictured passing traffic on the at the launch of easyWash, a cash-free solution for customers who want to keep their motorways or dual vehicles in pristine condition on the go. carriageways,” Donaldson stressed. “That is of critical salad bowls. up to six of Maxol’s service stations in importance to us, to remain at the heart According to Donaldson, Maxol is city centre locations in Dublin, Cork, and of the community, providing everyday gearing up to launch a number of new Galway, will have charging points. products and services. In doing so, we own-label products this year, including are retaining a large portion of our loyal own-brand milk, water, firelighters At the Heart of the Community customer base, regardless of the effect and fire logs. This is in addition to the Maxol also has its eye on technological the future of electric, or other market new pre-packed sandwich range, which changes, according to Donaldson: “We changes, might have on the business. launches in May. are constantly updating our systems Our service stations are run by local With 4.35m cups of coffee sold to remain current and relevant, and people for local people, employing local

by Maxol in 2018 and the coffee-to-go customer convenience is at the heart people and that has been our business market forecasted to be worth over of our strategic vision. Pay-at-pump model for almost 100 years.” €175m by 2020, Maxol has launched its new, exclusive coffee brand - Rosa.

Roasted in Ireland, the exclusive blend contains 100% Fairtrade Arabica coffee beans and follows a €1.7m investment in the brand by the company. A new advertising campaign for Rosa coffee launched on April 22 across outdoor, radio and social media.

Diversifying Its Offering Maxol’s primary objective is to transition from a fuel brand selling convenience products to a convenience food service brand selling fuel and new energies for mobility. The company is also diversifying in other ways, including in its fuel offering. By providing a mosaic of different types of fuel, including more bio-friendly fuels and other lower emission fuels, Maxol is ensuring it caters to every driver’s needs.

With electrification also gathering momentum, Maxol is ensuring its forecourts have an infrastructure in place to support greener motoring. By the end of this year, it is planned that

Maxol invested €128m in its network between 2012 and 2017, with a further €100m investment confirmed for additional redevelopments by 2020.

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Forecourt Focus: News Applegreen Donates Over €3m To Irish Charities APPLEGREEN is celebrating 10 Years of the Applegreen Charitable Fund, which was set up to give back to the communities in which it operates. In those 10 years, Applegreen has donated €3m to Irish charities through the tremendous support from customers and the high level of engagement shown by staff.

The ‘You Buy, We Give’ initiative continues to grow every year, now contributing over €1.6m to the Charitable Fund.

Every time a customer makes a fuel or in-store purchase, 1c/1p is donated to the charitable fund at no extra cost to the customer.

Money is also donated by customers through coin collection boxes, barcode campaigns and fundraising The Applegreen team, with CEO Bob Etchingham and COO Joe Barrett, come together with activities at sites such as charity partners and Goal Ambassador, Alan Brogan, to celebrate donations of over €3m on static cycles. The culture the 10th anniversary of the Applegreen Charitable Fund. of giving is fostered across the business and head office staff also support the fund through fundraising conjunction with the Irish Youth Foundation will provide a events, including charity balls, marathons and other physically longevity to the fund beyond the two-year partnership, and demanding challenges. will ultimately benefit over 4,000 children. Applegreen also Over the 10 years, Applegreen has partnered with a variety allocates a separate local sponsorship budget to each of our of different charities, including Goal, LauraLynn, The Jack & site and store locations with the aim to support local sports Jill Foundation, ISPCC, Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Anam clubs, schools or community causes.”

Cara, Focus Ireland, Barnardos, Debra Ireland, Irish Youth Adrian Giffney, Head of Charity, Applegreen, commented: Foundation and FoodCloud.

“We’re immensely proud of raising such a significant amount of “The Charitable Fund has had a great impact across all the money; it allows Applegreen to make a real difference to many charities that we’ve partnered with,” stated Joe Barrett, COO, people’s lives and support all the great work being achieved Applegreen. “The fund’s objective is not only to donate as much by our charity partners. We’d like to say a big thank you to our money as possible, but importantly to closely partner with customers and our staff who have helped contribute towards the charities to develop and support robust and sustainable achieving the €3m total.” programmes. For example, creating the Blossom Fund in

Play or Park Winner Announced SHEILA Kelleher from Cork has been named as the February winner of Circle K Play or Park, winning an all-expenses paid ski trip for two to the Rockies. The prize includes a seven-night stay in the 4* Moose Hotel & Suites, two sevenday lift passes for the Big 3 (Norquay, Sunshine and Lake Louise), skiing lessons for two people for four days and €1,000 spending money. For more information on Circle K Play or Park, visit www.playorpark.ie.

Sheila Kelleher from Co. Cork, the February 2019 winner of Circle K Play or Park, is pictured with Circle K Ireland Loyalty and Insights Manager, Richard Pollock.

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Forecourt Focus: News Circle K to fuel Team Ireland on the Road to Tokyo 2020 CIRCLE K has announced its support of Team Ireland in a new agreement that will see the company become the Official Fuel and Convenience Partner to the Irish Olympic Team in their qualification journey and participation in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. The two-year partnership, which commences immediately, sees the fuel and convenience retailer back the efforts of Ireland’s elite athletes in their preparations to represent their country on the biggest stage in sport.

Irish Olympian and European and World Championship Bronze Medallist Shane Ryan (Swimming) and World Championship Bronze Medallist Jenny Egan (Canoeing), joined Circle K MD, Niall Anderton, and Olympic Federation of Ireland CEO, Peter Sherrard, to announce the partnership at the National Sports Campus in Abbotstown, Dublin.

With 420 service stations across the island of Ireland, the exciting new agreement underpins Circle K’s continued commitment to supporting local communities from which future Olympic heroes emerge. Over the coming months, the partnership will be integrated across Circle K’s expansive network nationwide, ensuring visibility of its support of Team Ireland both in-store and on the forecourt.

“Circle K is at the heart of communities across the country and we recognise the important role played by Team Ireland’s athletes within those communities as role models and ambassadors,” noted Niall Anderton, MD of Circle K. “We are, therefore, proud to be a part of each individual athlete’s journey and the collective ambition of Team Ireland ahead of the Tokyo 2020 games.

“Ireland, as a nation, constantly shows its commitment to its sportspeople across various disciplines and I have no doubt, with the support of a nation, the Tokyo 2020 games will be the making of many local heroes,” he continued. “We look forward to working with our partners in the Olympic Federation

Pictured are Shane Ryan (Swimming) and Jenny Egan (Canoeing) with MD of Circle K, Niall Anderton, and CEO of the Olympic Federation of Ireland, Peter Sherrard, as Circle K announces its support of Team Ireland. of Ireland and to fuelling Team Ireland’s athletes through qualifications and beyond.”

Peter Sherrard, CEO of the Olympic Federation of Ireland, said, “Niall and his team at Circle K locations all over the country are making a big statement through the support they are committing to Team Ireland as we prepare for Tokyo 2020, starting with this year’s European Games and European Youth Olympic Festival. Our athletes work extremely hard to represent us on the world stage so the support of a partner like Circle K means a lot at this decisive time.”

Juul Launches in Circle K Stores JUUL Labs, one of the leading start-ups in vaping technology in the United States, has come to Ireland to offer a switching option for the country's 830,000 adult smokers, going on sale in 160 Circle K forecourt outlets and 50 Hale Vaping stores across the country.

All outlets will have Juul products behind the counter, including a starter kit, device kit and six Juul pod flavours: Alpine Berry, Apple Orchard, Golden Tobacco, Glacier Mint, Mango Nectar and Royal Crème.

Juul is a simple, functional and portable device with unique technology.

Through a closed vaping system with capsules (pods) and a patented temperature control design, it provides users with a consistent and satisfying experience. Juul does not combust or contain tobacco and therefore does not produce the associated carbon monoxide and 7,000+ harmful components present in traditional cigarettes. Juul contains nicotine, which is an addictive substance, but is not associated with the multiple health issues of tobacco smoking.

“We are delighted to be working with Circle K and Hale Vaping as we introduce the Juul range to Ireland,” said Gareth Smyth, General Manager of Juul Labs Ireland.

The launch will be underpinned by Juul Labs’ code of practice, to ensure responsible and restrictive advertising, marketing and age-gated product access. All retail partners must comply with Juul Labs’ “Challenge 25” policy, whereby any customer who looks under the age of 25 must produce ID to prove they are over the age of 18, and retailers will be regularly monitored through a ‘secret shopper’ programme to ensure adherence, or they will be excluded as Juul stockists. Advertising and marketing are testimonial-led, featuring the stories of adult smokers who have successfully made the switch from combustible cigarettes.

Pictured at the launch of Juul products in Circle K, Sandymount, are (l-r): Gareth Smyth, General Manager of Juul Labs Ireland; Judy Glover, Senior Market Director at Circle K Ireland; and Grant Winterton, EMEA President, Juul Labs.

64|Retail News|May 2019|www.retailnews.ie

Shelf Life ORGANIC dairy co-op, The Little Milk Company, have collaborated with Cashel Farmhouse Cheesemakers to launch Cashel Blue Bio (Organic) in 130 stores across Germany.

With the assistance of Bord Bia’s German office, Cashel Blue Bio, produced using milk from The Little Milk Company’s 18 organic dairy farms, will be listed by organic retailer, denn's Biomarkt. The Little Milk Company has an ongoing partnership with denn’s Biomarkt for their private label Irish cheddar. Good Herdsmen’s Irish organic beef is also available across denn’s Biomarkt stores nationwide. Pictured at denn’s Biomarkt in Nuremberg are (l-r): Sinead Kennedy, Little Milk Company Marketing Advisor; Conor Mulhall, CEO of The Little Milk Company; and Andrew Doyle TD, Minister of State for Food, Forestry and Horticulture.

A LUCKY man from Tipperary who won a cool €500,000 Daily Million prize when he played his numbers online revealed that he only set up his online National Lottery account two days before his big win. The ecstatic winner could barely believe his beginners luck as he picked up his cheque: “I can’t believe it, it’s crazy. I just opened my National Lottery account at the weekend and now I’m staring at a cheque for half-a-million euro. It’s an incredible feeling! I got an email telling me I was a winner so I read it and then logged into my account and saw that I won. I tell you, it was the best email I ever got in my life!”

BUCKFAST recently launched a new ad campaign in Dublin City to celebrate World Buckfast Day on May 12. The campaign champions Buckfast’s unique position in the drinks industry with an eye-catching ad that can be seen around Dublin City. The ad features the iconic product in an amusingly absurd occasion, dinner with the boss, and serves as a nod to Buckfast’s cult status in Ireland. Speaking on the campaign, Michael Foley of Richmond Marketing, said: “At Buckfast, we know what we are – and what we aren’t. We’re an acquired taste and proud of it. We know Buckfast isn’t for every occasion, but we’re the perfect choice for a night (or day) of truly good craic. We’re looking forward to seeing fans’ reaction to our new campaign” CHEP, the leading FMCG and retail end-to-end supply chain specialist, has celebrated 12 years of incident-free working at the company’s Dublin plant in Finglas through an industry leading health & safety initiative called Zero Harm.

The Zero Harm initiative, which was launched in 2005, commits to considering health, safety, the environment and human rights in all decisions concerning the development of projects, the selection of commercial partners and suppliers and the launch of new products or services. The achievement equates to one million hours of avoiding injuries that require off-site medical assistance, time-off, or a modification of duties. “Everyone is extremely proud of the journey we have taken to get us to this milestone,” said Jerry Hedderman, Service Centre Manager at Chep’s Dublin plant.

CORE, one of Ireland’s largest marketing communications companies, has announced the appointment of Finian Murphy as Marketing Director. Murphy will engage in his new role in conjunction with his existing position as Strategic Planner with Core, where he works with key clients across the research practice to drive their business through a better understanding of consumer research and insights within culture, people, markets, brands and activations. This dual role will now enable Murphy to collaborate closely with all nine practices across the Core business - Creative, Data, Investment, Learning, Media (comprising of Mediaworks, Spark Foundry, Starcom and Zenith), Recruitment, Research, Sponsorship and Strategy.

DIT Culinary Arts students Emily Jane Cunningham (left) and Shorena Khutsianidze have been named winners of this year’s Manor Farm cookery competition. The DIT students from Bray and Georgia competed against a number of other finalists from the prestigious School of Culinary Arts on Cathal Brugha Street in Dublin. Taking home €1,000 in prize money, both Shorena and Emily Jane cooked up a storm with two delicious chicken dishes, Shorena with a Georgian dish called Chakhokhbili and Emma Jane with a South Indian inspired curry recipe, served as a taco. All of the recipes will be available to view on www.chicken.ie.

KINETIC has teamed up with Technological University Dublin (formerly IT Tallaght) for the fifth year running. Marketing and advertising students were asked to devise an eye-catching and engaging Out of Home campaign for Deep RiverRock (DRR) to drive consumer consumption over the summer months and create a buzz around fundraising initiatives supported by DRR. Following presentations to a judging panel from Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland, Kinetic and Group M, the winning team was announced as Vicky Browne (Dublin), Aisling Meagher (Dublin) and Heloise Therrat (Lyon, France), pictured with Caroline Decourcy, Insights Director, Kinetic.

SUBWAY has introduced its first ever Vegan Sub and Salad, available in stores nationwide since April 17. The Vegan Sub and Salad features a patty packed with tasty sweet red pepper, chilli, garlic and red onion. Subway is also introducing a new Vegan Garlic Aioli that can be added to any Sub or Salad, so customers can make their favourite meal what they want.

Alongside the new Vegan range, Subway is also launching its new Ultimate Cheesy Garlic Bread, suitable for vegetarians and made with a deliciously melty Mozzarella and Red Cheddar cheese and a roasted garlic and parsley butter. The launch of the new Vegan Sub and Salad is supported by an integrated marketing campaign across PR, social media and advertising.

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