Retail News Magazine October 2023 by Retail News

OCTOBER 2023

Don’t get left in the dark

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Contents News 2

Rewarding excellence THIS year saw the tenth annual Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards handed out. Retail News has been media partner of the Awards since day one and the intervening decade has seen them grow to become some of the most respected and coveted accolades across the Irish FMCG sector. This year’s glittering awards ceremony proved one of the social highlights of the year as the great and the good from the world of Irish food and drinks converged on the famous Round Room of the Mansion House for an exciting night of announcements. We reveal the big winners from the night (Page 16), while also focusing on the Northern Irish products who came away with Awards (Page 22). Elsewhere, we report from the Barry Group’s Conference and Awards, back for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic, where the owner of Costcutter and Carry Out announced a significant rebrand for both its symbol groups and the parent brand, while also revealing the winners of its Store of the Year and Supplier of the Year awards (Page 24). Ever-affable Kerry man, Paddy Carmody, Beiersdorf’s Head of Marketing for Ireland, explains the impact of innovation on the skincare sector and reveals how Nivea’s research and development team are constantly pushing boundaries (Page 30). Conal Scullion and Rory Campbell from Lewis Silkin’s Belfast office note the stark findings of the Environmental Protection Agency’s August 2023 news release and how the EU’s revision of its Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive could impact Irish business, with retail in the frontline (Page 48).

Kathleen Belton Editorial & Marketing Director

On the frontline of retail fraud.

CSNA calls for “meaningful action” to reduce smoking rates.

M&S Food ranked top for customer experience; Domestic cider sales grow but challenges remain.

Kwayga.com closes €1 million funding round; Aldi voted as Ireland’s most sustainable supermarket.

Grocery price inflation falls again; IGBF Mid-West Valentine’s Ball announced.

NIQ appoints new Country Manager for Ireland; BAT Ireland calls for ban on underage vaping to be prioritised.

Sellotape 28

The recent ‘Reconnect’ Networking Lunch in Cork proved hugely popular and raised €25,000 for the IGBF.

The Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards celebrated their 10th anniversary with a gala dinner and awards night in Dublin’s Mansion House.

Barry Group Conference & Awards 24

Retail Ireland: Monthly Update 34

Cost spiral compounds labour market challenge; Consumers remain cautions despite improved outlook.

Soup 44

Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards 16

Paddy Carmody, Head of Marketing – Ireland, Beiersdorf, talks us through the trends that are driving the evolution of the personal care category, the innovations that continue to fuel growth and how Nivea manages to remain top of mind with consumers.

James Fahy has invested in a sizeable expansion project at his Daybreak store in Turloughmore, Co. Galway, and is already reaping the rewards, with significant sales growth across key categories.

Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund

Sellotape is a ‘must stock’ brand for Christmas, as the iconic brand remains an essential part of gift-giving for generations of consumers.

Personal Care: Interview

Shop Profile

Barry Group recently held their conference and awards in Lyrath Estate, Kilkenny, the first time this event has taken place since the Covid-19 pandemic. The theme for this year’s event tied

Retail News

As the number one soup brand in Ireland, Cully and Sully are delighted so many homes are serving up a warming bowl of Cully and Sully soup during the colder months.

Origin Green 46

Bord Bia has launched a series of in-person programmes for Origin Green members, supporting them to achieve critical sustainability targets.

Waste Packaging Directive 48

Conal Scullion and Rory Campbell from Lewis Silkin’s Belfast office report on the proposed EU laws fighting back against waste packaging and what they mean for Irish retail businesses.

Regulars & Reports

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2|Retail News|October 2023|www.retailnews.ie

News

On the frontline of retail fraud RETAIL groups and banks are warning shopkeepers to be vigilant as incidences of fraud are on the rise. A family-run food store in Cork learned the hard way this year when two customers entered the store, requested a €100 Paysafecard and a vape. After the shopkeeper turned to retrieve the vape, the customers cancelled their transaction and left. The customers, alleged the shopkeeper, had copied the number on the card and stole the €100. A Bank of Ireland (BoI) survey, conducted over the summer, suggests that 82% of the population are targeted by fraudsters at least once per month. The survey highlights the sophistication and frequency of such attacks. “An increasing number of our customers are being impacted by this,” Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud at BoI told Retail News. “Being busy or distracted is the primary reason why people fall victim to fraudsters.” Slight-of-hand tricks, such as the one that occurred in the Cork food store, are the least of a supermarket’s concerns. In 2023, remote and electronic scams are a retailer’s biggest bugbears. Phone fraud, in which criminals contact businesses via a phone call or text message, pretending to be a bank, utility company etc., are commonplace. Emails containing malicious software are also of concern because, according to Neil McDonnell, Chief Executive of Irish Small and Medium Enterprises (ISME), “a lot of them look like a legitimate email from a legitimate associate

Neil McDonnell, Chief Executive of Irish Small and Medium Enterprises (ISME).

with a legitimate PDF attachment. But if you hover your mouse over the PDF, you realise it's not an attachment: it's an .exe file. That's the first step in email compromise or ransomware.” In 2022, invoice redirection fraud conned an average €14,000 out of around 100 Irish businesses, according to FraudSmart, an Irish fraud awareness initiative. Invoice redirection involves criminals pretending to be a supplier of goods or services and requesting a retailer’s bank account details. One ISME business was “caught for €220,000”, recalled Neil McDonnell. “That was over two deductions and it started off with an email compromise. They got into our member's accounts payable system, intercepted a PDF invoice from a legitimate supplier and re-jigged it and changed the recipient. It wasn't until the supplier phoned up and asked ‘Where's my money?’ that it was detected.” Remote access fraud and invoice redirection impact small businesses in particular. “Particularly a smaller business with fewer staff – maybe one administrator on their accounts,” said Sadlier. “The [scam] calls can be aggressive and convincing. We've seen incidences in which they pretend to be a security specialist and request the business to update their

antivirus.” The scammer might also make a subtle adjustment to their email address. “For example, eircom.net might become eiicom.net – the ‘r’ changed to an ‘i’- and at first glance you wouldn't notice it. So it is important to be careful around emails and permutations of email, particularly when dealing with suppliers,” added Sadlier. When a supplier announces a change to their bank details, for example, a retailer should be wary, said McDonnell: “Any change in a supplier IBAN must be verified by a staff member. Not by calling a phone number that's on an email, but by looking up that customer." RGDATA recommends that retailers decline all unsolicited requests for private information. “You have to be on the outlook,” says Tara Buckley, RGDATA Director General. “Be conscious that people out there are trying to scam you. Treat things with suspicion.” According to BoI’s survey, 80% of fraudulent calls, texts or emails come from scammers claiming to be parcel delivery companies. Retailers are particularly vulnerable to such communication, particularly in the run-up to the busy Christmas months. Retailers routinely receive messages “telling you about customs charges required to release a parcel”, said Vincent Jennings, Chief

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News Executive Officer at CSNA (Convenience Stores and Newsagents Association). “From a retailer's perspective, it is particularly dangerous - a couple of hundred euro can be swallowed out of somebody's account very quickly if they do the wrong thing.” In 2023, social media is the origin of many scams. “Customers might click on certain posts and share their phone number,” explained Nicola Sadlier. “Then they receive a cold call and that's where it starts.” ISME recently had first-hand experience of this type of con: “We got caught for €890 via a dummy Facebook transaction.” According to McDonnell, the incident occurred after a Facebook account was hacked, although the organisation was reimbursed. “A retailer should be conscious about information they have on online and in their media presence and how much that information could be used against them,” said Nicola Sadlier. Over the summer, a sophisticated fake website for Dunnes Stores appeared online which offered customers discounted products, including ordering mechanisms and confirmations. Sadlier explains: “You searched for Dunnes on Google, as many people naturally do, and it was the top sponsored ad. People clicked on the link and the website was a slight Tara Buckley, RGDATA Director permutation on the existing, General. branded website. A couple of hundred people got caught up in it.” Bank of Ireland have “made efforts” to seek greater engagement with social media companies in order to stamp out such scams, “but they’re not coming to the table”. Fraudsters, however, are still coming into shops. “We still get people trying it on with supposedly winning lottery tickets,” noted Vincent Jennings. Over the summer, two English students allegedly used a cloned Clubcard app to scam Tesco shops across Northern Ireland. Although the shop in Cork caught the alleged Paysafecard con artists on camera, arrests have yet to be made. A representative for Payzone, the bill payments service that looks after Paysafecard, told Retail News: “Retailers should always get payment before printing or handing over the code to customers for in-store transactions.” Vincent Jennings agreed: “You have to be on top of it. You have to get the money before you hand over something like this. But that’s not the easiest of things to impress upon a part-time staff member who is behind the till.” Bank of Ireland has launched a campaign with Professor Mary Aiken, a renowned cyber psychologist, to build awareness around fraud and the psychology behind it. Vigilance, security and training are priorities for retailers. BoI, like other banks, have a 24/7 fraud team to deal with incidences. As the sophistication of technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, increases, retail fraud will become more sophisticated. “Apply vigilance and be aware of the types of scams that are happening,” said Sadlier. “We haven't any large scale or AI attacks but that technology is coming. All is not what it seems. Stop, think and check. Use contact information you have on file. Through rigid processes and procedures, whether you are dealing with an AI voice or not, these measures will protect us.”

CSNA calls for “meaningful action” to reduce smoking rates

Vincent Jennings, CEO, CSNA. THE Convenience Stores and Newsagents Association (CSNA) note the calls from a number of non-government organisations for the Irish Government to replicate the “gimmicky” policy announcements of the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and increase on an incremental basis the legal age at which people could purchase tobacco products. Aside from the lack of evidence that such a policy, were it to somehow be implemented, would be effective as a public health measure, the primary beneficiaries would be those dealing with smuggled tobacco, according to the CSNA. According to the official IPSOS MRBI 2022 Annual survey carried out for Revenue and the Department of Health, a staggering 30% of all cigarettes consumed in the Republic were not sold in Irish stores and did not contribute to the Exchequer. “A policy to reduce consumption of tobacco needs to be mindful that ill-conceived measures such as this one would do little to reduce smoking rates and would instead drive tobacco sales into Duty Free purchases and the black market,” noted Vincent Jennings, CEO, CSNA. “Currently, 13% of all tobacco consumed in Ireland is purchased in Duty Free, up by more than 50% on pre-Covid statistics, with no benefit to the State in excise tax. “Unless the Government takes decisive action to change the conditions that have developed over the past decade that has allowed for a growing supply chain of cigarettes via Duty Free, they will be penalising law-abiding retailers selling a legal product, while also assisting thugs and criminals to enrich themselves from criminal activity.”

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News

M&S Food has been ranked on top in the Irish supermarket in the Irish supermarket sector as part of the CXi Customer Experience report for 2023, jumping 30 places in the ranking since 2021. This year, the annual report, which is now in its ninth year, saw 175 organisations featured in a survey on customer experience which subsequently resulted in a ranked league across 11 sectors. M&S Food was ranked ninth in the overall survey, the highest ranked supermarket included in the survey. CX is a company that has been focusing on the scale of customer experience since 2015. Every year since then, it has published a Customer Experience report. The CX Framework is based on thousands of surveys and in-depth interviews with customers of companies across a variety of sectors to understand how they felt when they interacted with those companies. When analysing the customer experience at supermarkets against other types of businesses, the report highlighted the sector as a whole continued to show a strong performance in 2023 with an overall uplift in their score of 6%. The sector remains in first place in the rankings for a fourth consecutive year, with all supermarket brands making it into the top 100. M&S Food’s CXi score has risen by 13.4%, with the brand jumping more than 30 places since 2021. The report shows that customers ranked the brand favourably based on: • M&S store colleagues’ deep personal relationships with customers; • Trust in the brand and the ease with which to do business; • ‘Sparks Reward’ digital programme which offers customer savings of up to 20%; • Unique technology such as the ‘Scan & Shop’ feature.

M&S Food was the highest ranked supermarket in the CXi Customer Experience survey for 2023. The Scan & Shop feature was launched in 2022 as an integration of the Sparks loyalty scheme, which turns customers’ phones into a scanner and allows them to check out and pay on their own phone without queuing at the till. This is noted in the report as particularly convenient for ‘lunch time’ or ‘time poor’ customers who want to shop with speed. The report concluded that M&S has made great strides working with their Irish producers through campaigns such as Farm to Foodhall and developing a significant Irish food base, which was positively viewed by customers.

Domestic cider sales grow but challenges remain Image from rawpixel.com.

M&S Food ranked top for customer experience

DOMESTIC sales of Irish cider grew by 3.9% in 2022, as as bars and restaurants fully reopened following the pandemic, but exports declined and significant challenges remain for the sector, according to a new report by Ibec trade association Drinks Ireland | Cider. The total share of the alcohol market held by cider grew by 13.8% to reach 6.6% of sales. These markers of growth, though promising, are yet to fully recover to the pre-pandemic levels as the sales increase remains 12% below pre-pandemic levels and the share of the market was 7.4% in 2019. Cider consumption per capita also rose by 1.8% in 2022. The report also notes that there is a growing trend of premiumisation in the cider market, presenting an opportunity for the craft cider sector. A recent report on the craft cider market by Bord Bia, in collaboration with Drinks Ireland, highlights the growing craft cider category that offers consumers an array of choices and exciting innovations. The report also shows that the estimated value of cider exports stood at €73.49 million in 2022, representing a decline of 5.6% from the previous year. This decrease can be attributed to the exceptional export growth experienced in 2021, driven by new market opportunities and the reopening of off-trade channels in key export markets. The United Kingdom remains the most popular export destination for Irish cider, followed by the Netherlands and the United States. The sector called for a reduction in excise in alcohol in the Budget and to support craft cider makers in particular, Drinks Ireland | Cider said that the 50% relief from Alcohol Products Tax (APT) for cider and perry produced by qualifying small producers that was introduced in Budget 2023 should also be extended to qualifying small producers of products such as fruit-flavoured ciders and intermediate products linked to the category. This expansion of the programme would encourage new entrants into the cider market and support those existing small businesses as they grow and develop. “The small craft cider producers play a pivotal role in the category, contributing to the diversity and innovation that enrich the Irish drinks landscape and contribute to rural economic growth. This entrepreneurial spirit should be encouraged,” noted Cormac Healy, Director of Drinks Ireland. “The overall Irish cider industry remains resilient and adaptable, and with the right support, it can continue to flourish and contribute to the vibrant landscape of Ireland's beverage sector.”

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News

Kwayga.com closes €1 million funding round SUPPLIER sourcing engine for supermarket buyers, Kwayga.com, has successfully closed a funding round, with a €1 million investment in the company, led by The Redesdale Food & Beverage Fund. Cork-headquartered Kwayga.com enables supermarket buyers to cut their sourcing times by 40% using its game-changing supplier sourcing technology, achieving in minutes what previously took months. “Redesdale’s investment is a huge vote of confidence in our groundbreaking technology,” stated Mike McGrath, Co-Founder and CEO of Kwayga.com, a forward-thinking leader in the realm of eSourcing, who has made it a mission to revolutionise the way supermarkets across Europe approach buying. “This partnership will significantly accelerate our growth across Europe as we continue to build high value relationships with significant UK and European buyers, reducing their sourcing time and costs by rapidly connecting them with the best European suppliers. This funding will be used to scale our team and continue to grow our product.” Michael Cantwell, a Partner in The Redesdale Food & Beverage Fund, said: “Redesdale is delighted to invest in Kwayga.com. We are excited about the expertise of the team and their exceptional technology, which solves a key buyer pain point. It will be a game changer in how suppliers are sourced in the supermarket sector.” Kwayga.com was founded in 2021 by Mike McGrath and Martin Fitzgerald to provide a sourcing engine for supermarket buyers to engage them with perfectly matched private label and trending product suppliers in European markets where they would not previously have had visibility. It does this extremely fast, allowing buyers to cut 40% off their sourcing lead times, get new product

Pictured are Martin Fitzgerald, COO; and Mike McGrath, CEO, Kwayga.com. requirements on shelves in record time; replace existing products when necessary; and for targeted cost saving programmes. It already counts the main Irish supermarkets and several UK supermarkets as its customers, and has in excess of 80,000 suppliers on its database. The Redesdale Food & Beverage Fund is a venture capital fund established by some of Ireland’s best known and most accomplished financiers, business leaders and commercial scientists. Investors in the fund include Enterprise Ireland, Lord Abbett, Musgrave, Coca-Cola, Monaghan Mushrooms, and Tate & Lyle. The fund targets food, beverage, and nutrition companies, led by ambitious entrepreneurs. To find out more visit www.kwayga.com.

Aldi voted Ireland’s most sustainable supermarket IRISH shoppers have voted Aldi as the most sustainable supermarket in Ireland, and the fifth most sustainable business overall, according to the new Ireland RepTrak Sustainability Index 2023. The annual Ireland RepTrak Sustainability Index 2023 measures the public’s perceptions of 100 of the largest, most important and most visible organisations in the country, across the key drivers of sustainability. “Irish shoppers voting Aldi as the most sustainable supermarket is a testament to the dedication of our amazing staff, suppliers and business partners, all of whom have worked tirelessly to provide the best customer experience for Aldi shoppers,” noted Liz Fox, National Sustainability Director, Aldi Ireland. Aldi also committed to matching the increased Living Wage Recommendation, with Niall O’Connor, Aldi Ireland Group Managing Director, noting: “Aldi understands that our employees are key to our success and that they play an integral role in driving the business forward. As the best paying supermarket in Ireland, we are excited to announce that we will be fully adopting the recommendations of the Living Wage Technical Group for 2024. This decision demonstrates our commitment to valuing and supporting our workforce. Hourly paid colleagues across the business will benefit from this, which will see the starting rate for Store Assistants and Selectors increase to €14.80 per hour. Pay scales for our more experienced colleagues will be reviewed in our annual pay review in January in light of our

continuing commitment to the Living Wage, and all changes will be implemented from February 2024.” The retailer also announced details of an ambitious investment plan in Limerick, which would see the retailer open three new stores by 2025, located in As Aldi announced details of an Roches Street, Moyross ambitious Limerick investment and Dooradoyle. plan, which would see the retailer Construction has open three new stores by 2025, commenced at the pictured at the turning of the first of these stores at sod at Roches Street are from Roches Street, which (l-r): Brian Gorman, Managing will represent Aldi’s Director, Stewart Construction; first city centre store in David Deady, Director, Deady Limerick, and the store is Gahan Architects; and Denzell expected to open in 2025. Balfour, Real Estate Director at Planning applications Aldi Ireland. have been submitted for Moyross and Dooradoyle. In total, this investment would be worth €36.6 million, creating 90 jobs and supporting a further 200 during construction.

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News Grocery price inflation falls again TAKE-home grocery sales in Ireland increased by 7.9% in the four weeks to 3 September 3, 2023, as the average price per pack increased by 8.8%, according to the latest figures from Kantar. Shoppers visited stores more often this month, making one additional trip versus last month. However, they bought on average one item less per month. Grocery price inflation, which stands at 11.5% in the 12 weeks to September 3, is the main reason for the increase in value sales, despite it falling to the lowest level since September 2022. “This slowdown in grocery inflation is welcome news for consumers,” noted Emer Healy, Business Development Director at Kantar. “This is the fourth month in a row that there has been a drop, down 1.3 percentage points compared to last month, which is encouraging for both shoppers and retailers. Although the rate of inflation is still relatively high, it is the lowest level we have seen in the last 12 months, and we expect it to continue to fall over the coming months.” The percentage of packs sold on promotion dropped slightly by 0.6 percentage points compared to the same period last year, while the percentage of sales sold on promotion currently stands at 24.1%. Sales of own label products were up 11.9% in the latest 12 weeks, more than double the sales growth of brands at 5%. Value own label ranges had the strongest growth, up 17.8%, with shoppers spending an additional €10.3 million year-on-year as they look to save money at the tills. Own label value share hit 47.9%, while brands hold a value share of 46.6%. “Regardless of rising costs, parents had to prepare for the end of summer and schools reopening at the start of the month,” noted Emer. “This is an important time for many consumers, with parents stocking up and getting ready for the return of the packed lunch. As a result, shoppers spent an additional €7.4 million on biscuits, €1 million on breakfast cereals, €2.2 million on cheese and €947k on bread.” Online sales were strong over the 12-week period, up a significant 18.5% year-on-year, with shoppers spending an

additional €27 million on the platform, with more frequent trips (+11.3%) and 17.4% of Irish households buying their groceries online. With back-to-school preparations in full swing, young families went online for their groceries, spending an additional €13 million compared to last year. Dunnes, Tesco and Lidl all grew ahead of the total market in terms of value this month. Dunnes hold 23% of the market, with

growth of 11.1% year-on-year. Dunnes saw a strong boost in new shoppers, up 3% year-on-year, which is the strongest boost in new shoppers out of all the retailers. Tesco hold 22.6% of the market with growth of 11.5% year-onyear. Tesco saw the strongest frequency growth among all retailers once again, up 16.1% year-on-year, which contributed an additional €96.1 million to overall performance. SuperValu hold 20.6% of the market with growth of 4%. SuperValu see shoppers visit their stores most frequently compared to all other retailers, making 21.3 trips on average. Lidl claim 13.6% share, with growth of 11.6% year-on-year. More frequent trips contributed to an additional €37.1 million to overall performance. Aldi hold a 12.5% share, with growth of 5.6% year-onyear, with a strong boost in new shoppers and more frequent trips contributing an additional €25.1 million to overall performance.

IGBF Mid-West Valentine’s Ball announced THE Mid-West Region of the Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund is holding its annual Valentine’s Black-Tie Ball on February 10 at the Castletroy Park Hotel, Limerick. “The Ball is our major fund-raising activity of the year and all proceeds go to members within the grocery trade that need our support. Once again, we call on your kindness and generosity,” noted James Johnson from Dunnes Stores in Tipperary Town, Chairman of the Mid-West Region Committee. Tickets are priced at €160 per ticket, €1600 for a table of 10, and €1920 for a table of 12. You can purchase tickets by contacting Hotel Solutions DMC directly on (01) 6309211 or email marily@hotel-solutions.ie.

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News NIQ appoints new Country Manager for Ireland NIQ (formerly known as NielsenIQ) have announced the appointment of David Berry as their new Country Manager for Ireland. In this role, Berry will oversee business in the Irish market and work closely with manufacturers and retailers to develop and implement tailored solutions. He will also be leading in the roll-out of NIQ Discover in the Irish market, a platform that allows retailers and manufacturers to effectively use the power of data to successfully compete in today's challenging business environment and, at the same time, make their business more efficient. Berry brings a wealth of knowledge with more than 20 years of experience within the market research and information sector. He joins NIQ from Kantar, where he worked as Managing Director for Ireland for the past five years. “I am pleased to announce David’s appointment,” said Rachel White, Managing

Director UK & Ireland at NIQ. “His expertise of the Irish retail landscape and track record of success make him the ideal leader to drive our business forward. David has worked with leading brands, retailers and government agencies across the Irish grocery market, and I am confident that his passion for delivering meaningful insights and impactful solutions will benefit our clients.” David Berry said: “I am excited to be joining at a time of significant transformation and innovation for NIQ in Ireland, with the move to a marketleading new platform, NIQ Discover, which empowers companies to dive deeper into insights and tell the full story across data. I am looking forward to working with the NIQ Ireland team to deliver value for our clients and help them make informed decisions which lead to sustainable growth.”

David Berry, Country Manager for Ireland, NIQ.

BAT Ireland calls for ban on underage vaping to be prioritised THE nine-year wait for legislation to ban the sale of vapes to under-18s must be prioritised by the Government, says BAT Ireland, one of the country’s leading vape businesses. In May of this year, Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly TD announced that a ban on the sale of vapes to under18s would come into effect in July after Cabinet agreed to prioritise the legislation. Five months on, it has yet to be introduced, with Ireland lagging behind the majority of other EU countries who already prohibit sales to under-18s. The Public Health (Tobacco and Nicotine Inhaling Products) Bill wasn’t finalised before the summer recess, having only completed Second Stage in the Dáil. It was due to undergo Third Stage in September but the meeting of the Health Committee was cancelled, with no timeline for when the Bill is expected to be introduced. It is more than 3,300 days since Cabinet first approved a memo for the Bill back in June 2014. The initiative was initially spearheaded by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD when he was Minister for Health. David Melinn, Country Manager at BAT Ireland, which sells Vuse vaping products and Velo nicotine pouches, to adults only, has called on the Government to rapidly introduce age restrictions on vapes: “There is widespread support for a ban on underage sales so it remains unclear as to why the Government is still dragging its heels on a piece of legislation that it agreed to nine years ago. “BAT Ireland has been calling for a ban on underage sales for years,” he continued. “Vaping should only ever be used by adult smokers who are looking to quit. Vapes

David Melinn, Country Manager at BAT Ireland. or e-cigarettes do not contain tobacco and are a reducedrisk product that can help adult smokers to move away from cigarettes.”

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Industry News Dealz raise almost €200,000 for Barretstown DISCOUNT retailer Dealz have raised almost €200,000 in just 10 months for their charity partner, Barretstown, smashing their fundraising target and being shortlisted for prestigious awards along the way. Last year, Dealz launched their fundraising partnership with Barretstown and set an ambitious target of raising €150,000. This target has already been surpassed with colleagues in Dealz stores across the country raising more than €100,000. And, thanks to the roll-out of microdonation system, Pennies, Dealz customers are generously donating in excess of €10,000 per month to the charity at checkouts across the country. This phenomenal effort has resulted in the partnership being shortlisted for Charities Institute Ireland (Cii)’s Best Corporate Charity Partnership 2023 and Dealz regional trainer, Thomas Mackin, being shortlisted for the Unsung Hero of the Year award at the AIB Merchant Services (AIBMS) Retail Excellence Awards.

John West scores with SuperValu GALWAY’S Paul Conroy was to the fore as Boyle’s Leanne Connolly was named a winner in the John West Féile Buy, Scan and Win competition with SuperValu, Boyle. Leanne won a €500 SuperValu shopping voucher and €1,000 for Boyle GAA Club. John West Féile Ambassador and Galway footballer Paul made the trip to SuperValu, Boyle, to the present the prizes. Pictured are (l-r): Thomas Owens, John West Ireland; Leanne Connolly with her children Bryn and Aoife; SuperValu Boyle Store Manager, Mark O’Shea; John West Féile Ambassador and Galway footballer Paul Conroy; and David Kelly, Boyle GAA chair.

Lakeland Dairies introduce clear bottle tops on milk cartons LAKELAND Dairies have continued their long-term commitment to reducing plastic packaging by rolling out new clear caps for all two-litre and three-litre milk cartons on the iconic Champion brand, as well as for retailers’ brands. The traditional red or blue coloured carton tops cannot be easily recycled into food-grade packaging, so replacing coloured milk caps with clear caps makes it easier to recycle and helps reduce colour contamination with high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Pictured are Tommy O’Donaghue, Head of Consumer Foods with Lakeland Dairies, and Eimear Hanley, Marketing Manager, Lakeland Dairies, at the announcement.

Nestlé team clear 75kg of litter from Dollymount Beach A TEAM of volunteers from Nestlé’s office in Dublin recently spent a day picking up litter on Dollymount Beach, Dublin, collecting a total of 76kg of litter, as part of An Taisce Clean Coasts ‘Big Beach Clean’ campaign, an annual call to action as part of the International Coastal Cleanup. More than 30 local Nestlé colleagues armed with litter pickers and refuse sacks collected everything they could find from plastic wrappers and bags, to cans and bottles, old fishing equipment and discarded clothing. The beach clean-ups are part of the Nestlé Cares programme, which facilitates up to 120,000 hours of volunteering every year from its Ireland and UK employees. Pictured at the event are (l-r): Eunice McCarthy, Dallan Walsh, Amy Collins and John Duffin.

White’s Grower of the Year named ARABLE growers Adrian Douglas and Sons from Crossgar, Co. Down, have been awarded the John Finnan Oat Quality Award by White’s Oats for supplying the highest quality of Standard Oats to the White’s Oats Mill in Tandragee, from the 2022 oat harvest. Adrian, a third-generation farmer, is one of 40 local growers growing oats in NI for the Co. Armagh based oat miller. “We have been working in partnership with White’s for over thirty years, and we are delighted to have won this award,” noted Adrian, pictured with Steven McAllister, White’s Agri Supply Chain Coordinator.

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Industry News Lidl announce landmark €60 million deal with O’Brien Fine Foods LIDL have announced a major supply deal with Kildarebased cooked meats producer, O’Brien Fine Foods, valued at €60 million. This new deal will see O’Brien Fine Foods supply to Lidl stores across Ireland, Northern Ireland, Great Britain and across mainland Europe, including Bulgaria, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Romania and Slovenia. O’Brien Fine Foods have supplied Lidl’s own brand sliced ham and beef lines since 2011, bringing their 100% Irish, Bord Bia Quality Assured products to Lidl’s customers every week. “Lidl have given us the opportunity to enter new international markets for the first time and bring our quality Irish products to customers across Europe,” noted John O’Brien, Managing Director, O’Brien Find Foods, pictured (right), with Kevin Duffy, Senior Buying Director for Lidl Ireland, and Claire Mulrennan, Senior Buyer for Lidl Ireland.

Alison Curtis launches Trick or Treat for Sick Children 2023 BROADCASTER Alison Curtis is pictured with Caroline Hyde, Marketing Manager at MiWadi, and Pauline Fitzgerald, Campaigns Manager, Children’s Health Foundation, at the launch of Trick or Treat for Sick Children 2023, proudly supported by MiWadi. “I’m honoured to be asked back again this year to be a part of the Trick or Treat campaign and contributing to raising awareness and funds for the extraordinary work carried out in the Children’s Health Foundation every day,” said Alison. “I urge anyone who is in position to do so to register for a party pack and host a Trick or Treat party to support the children who are facing great challenges so early in life.” Children’s Health Foundation and MiWadi are encouraging people to host a Trick or Treat party by signing up at www.childrensheath.ie/trickortreat to raise vital funds for Children’s Health Ireland hospitals and urgent care centres. To get families into the Halloween spirit, a ‘Monst-a-matic Trick or Treat Vending Machine’ popped up in Dundrum Town Centre on October 5, where kids were surprised and delighted by a friendly monster.

The Sunday Times searching for Ireland’s top employers THE Sunday Times and employee experience platform WorkL have launched a new workplace awards initiative to recognise and celebrate the very best places to work in Ireland. ‘The Sunday Times Best Places to Work’ highlights employers that recruit and retain top talent, along with industry-leading best practices in areas such as engagement, wellbeing and job satisfaction. The initiative aims to find businesses where individuals feel they have more control over their work life balance, wellbeing and environment and, as a result of this, take more responsibility for the success of their employer. Companies can enter through the WorkL for business platform: Stbestplacestowork.ie.

Irish World Para Rowing Champion joins Fyffes Fit Squad

BANANA distributors, Fyffes, have expanded their Fit Squad coaching team with their appointment of World Para Rowing champion, Katie O'Brien from Clarinbridge. A member of Galway Rowing Club, Katie represents Ireland in the PR2 W1x rowing category. “As we begin our busiest ever programme of ‘fitness visits’ to schools here and in Northern Ireland, we welcome Katie, whose presence on our coaching panel adds further credibility and value to the work our Fit Squad programme is doing in introducing young children to the importance of physical exercise and healthy eating,” noted Emma Hunt-Duffy, Fyffes Head of Marketing (pictured second from right), with World Para Rowing champion, Katie O'Brien, and Irish Olympians, David Gillick and Phil Healy.

Kellogg Ireland to offer support to employees suffering domestic abuse KELLOGG Ireland have announced they will provide an additional 10 days paid leave for any staff member suffering domestic abuse. The new Domestic Abuse policy applies to all employees, regardless of their length of service. There is no application process and leave taken under this policy will not be detailed in employees’ personal records. The food company, which employs more than 300 people in Ireland, is also offering to pay for an initial legal support meeting as well as providing a one-off payment for expenses and costs incurred for setting up a new bank account or any other activity that provides employees suffering domestic abuse with financial security. Kellogg are also offering free access to a 24-hour confidential counselling service and flexible working arrangements.

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Industry News Spar celebrate National Tree Day SPAR, in partnership with the Tree Council of Ireland, called on primary school children across the country to take the pledge and plant a tree on Spar National Tree Day recently (October 5). This year’s campaign, themed ‘Nuts about Nature - Fiáin chun Dúlra’, aims to encourage children, parents and teachers to connect directly with nature by planting one of the 2,000 Native Irish Hazel tree saplings available free to primary schools on www.treeday.ie. Pictured at the launch of Spar National Tree Day in the Botanic Gardens are: Cormac Downey, President of the Tree Council Of Ireland; Brendan Fitzsimons, CEO of Tree Council of Ireland; with Colin Donnelly, Spar Sales Director; and Helen Lalor, Spar Marketing Manager.

Yazoo gets Irish kids back to school YAZOO Kids, the iconic brand of flavoured milk drink, is celebrating back-toschool and half-term by reminding parents that Yazoo Kids is a lunchbox friendly, calcium and vitamin rich drink, suitable for growing primary school children. Deborah Campbell, Principal Controller for GM Marketing, Yazoo’s distribution partner for Ireland, said: “The lunchbox-sized Yazoo Kids cartons are great as a little pick-me-up between meals and as they have no added sugar, are a natural source of calcium and vitamin B2, rich in protein and with no artificial sweeteners or flavours, they are the perfect milk treat for primary school kids.” The Yazoo Kids crew were at Swords Pavilions Shopping Centre, Dublin, on October 14, Blanchardstown Shopping Centre on October 15, and will be in Mahon Point Shopping Centre, Cork, on October 28, where free samples will be available, as well as some fun activities for youngsters. Deborah Campbell is pictured with primary school pupils, Rosie Woods (7) and Noah Mailey (7).

Flogas invest €4 million in HVO LPG tanker fleet FLOGAS Ireland have invested €4 million in their LPG tanker fleet, with the purchase of 17 new vehicles, the transition of their entire fleet to run on Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) and the installation of best-in-class diagnostic and tracking software for road safety. The fleet also holds the prestigious Truck Safe Gold Standard Award from the Freight Transport Association of Ireland, the only LPG provider to do so. In addition, as the energy partner of Team Ireland for Paris 2024, the Flogas tanker fleet will carry the Team Ireland logo across the nation over the coming 12 months as a symbol of support for the dedicated athletes on their Olympic journey. Pictured at the announcement are Kevin Donnelly, General Manager, Flogas LPG, and Mick Dalton, Transport Manager.

Coca-Cola gives €200k to 28 youthorientated non-profit organisations COCA-Cola announced recently that 28 non-profit organisations from across Ireland and Northern Ireland will each receive a grant share from this year’s Coca-Cola Thank You Fund. Operating in partnership with the Irish Youth Foundation and supporting partners YouthAction Northern Ireland, the Coca-Cola Thank You Fund invests in community groups that are orientated towards young people, with this year’s theme centred around empowering young people through learning, inclusion and sustainable development. Ashe Conrad-Jones (left), Co-founder of Pocket Forests, and Lucy Masterson (centre), Chief Executive, Irish Youth Foundation, joined Agnese Filippi, Country Manager of Coca-Cola Ireland, to celebrate the announcement that Pocket Forests received a grant share of the €200K being made available through the Coca-Cola Thank You Fund. Empowering youth through sustainable development, Pocket Forests will reimagine urban spaces to reconnect people with nature by growing pockets of native forests with communities, creating thriving soil, biodiversity, climate resilience and natural habitat networks.

Crumlin Spar store celebrates Ireland’s latest Lotto millionaire BRIAN Ferris’ Spar store in St Agnes Park in Crumlin, Dublin 12, was revealed as the shop which sold the €1 million Lotto Plus 1 top prize win on September 27. The Dublin winner became Ireland’s 29th lottery millionaire of the year. “I’ve owned the store for five years now and this is our second big win in three years, which is absolutely incredible,” noted Brian Ferris. “Our last one was a €500,000 EuroMillions Plus win. The locals will be delighted when news gets out and I’m sure we’ll see lots of them eager to check their tickets.” Brian is pictured (centre) with staff Cardine McCabe and Rachel O’Connor, as well as Michael McGuinness, Area Manager, National Lottery.

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Shop Profile

Investing in the future James Fahy has invested in a sizeable expansion project at his Daybreak store in Turloughmore, Co. Galway, and is already reaping the rewards, with significant sales growth across key categories. FAHY’S Daybreak in Ballyglass, Turloughmore, Co. Galway, has been serving the community since the shop was originally established back in 1981, when James Fahy’s parents opened the business as a garage with a small associated shop. Since the completion of a revamp earlier this year, Fahy’s now offers both local and passing trade a huge variety of services in a state-of-the-art local shop. James began working full time in his parents’ shop in 2011, before taking over the running of the store three years later. At that time, he decided it would be a good idea to choose a symbol group partner in order to fully develop the site’s potential. The family had a long working relationship with Musgrave MarketPlace so James was keen to partner with Musgrave and he found the Daybreak offering to be best suited to the shop. “Standards in grocery retail in Ireland are very high and there are a lot of very good offerings from symbol groups to choose from,” James tells Retail News. “While choosing a partner, I found that Daybreak had the best package and I was keen to work with people I knew and trusted. At that time, we were able to introduce a coffee offering and a deli and really improve the variety of services we could offer to customers.” The pandemic effect James traded very successfully with Daybreak and his business grew very successfully in the following years. Around 2019, James felt that another investment in the shop was needed, deciding that the shop could benefit from more space to allow for an even better facility for his customers. The shop sits adjacent to the family home, which was unoccupied in 2019, and James considered expanding the shop

into the footprint of the house. “I was going to upgrade the shop in 2020, but obviously that did not end up being possible, once the pandemic happened,” he recalls.

Store owner James Fahy, with his parents, Mary and Gerry, who opened the original store in 1981.

The impact of Covid-19 had a huge effect on the business, as James explains: “It totally changed the way we interacted with the local community. Local shops are always important in rural Ireland, but

The Munch & Co deli has been vastly expanded in Fahy’s Daybreak.

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Shop Profile during the pandemic, we really did become a vital lifeline.” In turn, James acknowledges the support he received from the team at Daybreak during this unprecedented period: “It was really great to have that kind of support during a crisis. It was a privilege to be able to help the people in the local community and working with Daybreak helped us to do that as well as we did.” Significant expansion project Once life began to return to normal, James’ thoughts returned to the expansion of the shop and he and the Daybreak store design team began to work on the project to redesign the shop. “The process of developing the shop worked really well,” he notes. “The design team and myself came up with a layout that perfectly suited the way the shop works and we were able to significantly improve the offering, including further upgrading the deli and coffee offering, introducing Lickety Split ice-cream, as well as creating a brand new sit-down area and increasing our ambient grocery offering.” The expansion works were carried out with minimal disruption to trading: “The actual building process worked extremely well; because we were expanding into the existing building, all of that work was able to be done in isolation, without having any impact on the shop. As a result, we were able to keep trading through the entire revamp, which is really important in a shop like this, as a lot of our customers are repeat business and we do not want people to get into the habit of going somewhere else.” Once the new build was completed, it was simply a case of “opening up the dividing wall and bringing everything

FACT FILE:

Owner: Location: Size: No. of staff: Opening Hours:

James Fahy Ballyglass, Turloughmore, Co. Galway 2,260 square feet 13 full time & part time 06:30-22:00, Monday-Friday; 07:30-22:00, Saturday & Sunday

together,” James reveals. “The entire development took less than 11 weeks and the process went very smoothly.” Greatly expanding offering in-store The new space has allowed James to

it looks fantastic; they have been really impressed with the new product offering in the shop and we’ve had a lot of people comment on how well the shop looks now. It’s great to get that kind of feedback after making a significant investment.”

The bigger store footprint allows for a much wider range of ambient grocery products. expand the store’s offering considerably: “The entire shop has been transformed inside and we are able to provide significantly more products and services. With the amount of space we gained, we were able to significantly expand the Munch & Co deli and the 9 Grams coffee offering and those elements really look fantastic. Most importantly, our customers think

The 9 Grams coffee offering has proved hugely popular in the Turloughmore store.

James has been able to capitalise on the investment and capture some of that additional opportunity that the old shop was unable to satisfy. The shop is located just off the M17 motorway and many of its customers are repeat passing customers. Sales of fresh food-to-go have increased significantly in the three months since the revamped store opened. The coffee offering, in particular, has performed extremely well. James also introduced the new Daybreak take-home dinners range and he has seen strong growth in that area. “I am delighted with the return we have seen and with the quality of the new shop,” James concludes. “Our customers are delighted as well, which is great. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank my parents, Mary and Gerry, my Aunt Noreen and staff like Maureen and Anne in the deli. It is the people working in a shop that really make it a success and this shop has been blessed with really great people. The team in Daybreak, especially Colm Dolan, Leonard Doyle and John Melvin, have all been a great support as well and I want to thank everyone there for helping us grow this business over the years.”

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Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund

IGBF Cork networking lunch a great success The recent ‘Reconnect’ Networking Lunch in Cork proved hugely popular and raised €25,000 for the IGBF. FRIDAY, September 15 saw 185 of the great and the good from the Muster area and beyond coming together at the Clayton Hotel, Lapps Quay in Cork, to support the second ever ‘Reconnect’ Networking Lunch in aid of the Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund. Suppliers, retailers and wholesalers all came together to support their very own unique industry charity that supports its own who fall on hard times for whatever reason. Organised and run by Chair of the Southern Committee, Kevin Flynn and his dedicated committee, the event kicked off with a drinks reception sponsored by Heineken and Comans, followed by a delicious lunch and wine sponsored by Concha Y Toro. Lots of networking took place afterwards, with a bespoke whiskey cocktail sponsored by Suntory Beverages and Food Ireland. Kevin Flynn thanked everyone for supporting the event, which raised €25,000 for the charity, and reminded everyone of the importance of spreading the word throughout all of our businesses, at every level, to raise awareness that the charity is here to help fellow colleagues who may need assistance.

Eoin O’Donoghue, Marketing Specialist, Concha Y Toro, and Lyndon O’Hea, Senior National Account Manager, Musgrave Group.

The IGBF Cork Committee: Pat Cuthbert, Sales Director, Valeo Foods; John Ryan, formerly of Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard; Kevin Flynn, Centra Little Island; Yvonne O’Shaughnessy, Category Manager, Musgrave Retail Partners Ireland; Adrian Singleton, Singletons’ SuperValu Hollyhill; Bryan Morris, Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I; and Eoin O’Sullivan, Sales Director at M&P O’Sullivan.

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Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund

From Heineken Ireland were Alan O’Regan, National Account Manager; Catherine Bray, RMG Analyst; and Willie Lee, Regional Execution Manager. The team from Barry Group (l-r): David O’Keeffe, Head of Carry Out; Niall Hartnett, Buying Director; Paul Roche, Head of Costcutter; Lizelle Mills, Regional Manager, Carry Out; Edwina Lucie, Sales Director; Colin Gurhy, Sales Business Development, and John Murphy, Account Manager.

From CPM were (l-r): Conor Boden, Michael Lyons, Trevor Buckley, Laura Kupryte, Jack Reed, and Donal McCaffrey.

The M&P O’Sullivan team included (l-r): David Murray, Kevin McKenna, Patrick O’Sullivan, Declan O’Driscoll, Eddie Hourigan and Denis O’Sullivan.

From Tesco Ireland were (l-r): Conor Lynch, Area Manager; Declan O’Driscoll, Douglas Store Manager; Aoife Dilworth, Tesco Community Team; Nigel Troy, General Manager, Tesco Ireland; Margot Breen, Store Manager; and Paul Healy, Regional Director.

Yvonne O’Shaughnessy, Category Manager, Musgrave Retail Partners Ireland, and Hazel Flynn, Centra Little Island, pictured at the IGBF Networking Lunch.

Chair of the IGBF Southern Committee and event organiser Kevin Flynn from Centra Little Island and Carmel Flynn.

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Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards

A decade of excellence The Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards celebrated their 10th anniversary with a gala dinner and awards night in Dublin’s Mansion House. THE 10th annual Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards were presented recently at a gala dinner and awards ceremony in the Round Room in Dublin’s Mansion House. Now in their 10th year, the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards are a renowned hallmark of excellence within the retail, wholesale, and foodservice sector. These prestigious awards, organised by MPI Media under the emap brand, have gained tremendous prominence over the years, recognising exceptional food and drink products that stand out in terms of taste, quality, innovation and more. The Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards have been a beacon of quality for a decade now, setting the standard for excellence in the industry. The awards are part of the broader MPI initiative, and their dedication to acknowledging excellence in the food and drink sector has made them a respected institution, resonating not only in Ireland but also beyond. With 90 industry awards and conferences held annually, alongside 100 magazine, conference and award websites, these

All the winners of the 2023 Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards.

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Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards

The team from Dunnes Stores celebrate winning the Retailer of the Year Award. exemplifying unwavering quality and excellence. The full list of judges can be found here: https://irish.qualityfoodawards.com/ irishqualityfoodanddrinkawards2023/en/ page/meet-the-judges. Dunnes’ dominance Dunnes Stores dominated this year's awards, showcasing their commitment to excellence with an impressive haul of accolades, which included: •

The coveted Product of the Year Award went to Wildberry Bakery’s Handmade Carrot and Walnut Cake, produced for Dunnes Stores. Pictured are event MC’s Karl Spain (left) and Ruth Scott (right), with the Wildberry Bakery team.

•

Own Label Range of the Year: Dunnes Stores' "Simply Better" range stood out as a testament to their dedication to providing exceptional quality. Retailer of the Year: Dunnes Stores' unwavering commitment to quality earned them the prestigious Retailer of the Year title.

awards have become a pivotal platform for recognising and celebrating the best in the business. Rigorous judging process The judging process for the 2023 Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards was nothing short of rigorous and meticulous. Over three weeks, a panel of industry experts gathered at Leopardstown Racecourse in Dublin to assess each product. Judges meticulously evaluated each product based on a comprehensive set of criteria, including taste, texture, flavour, aroma, ingredients list, provenance, product appearance, packaging, price point, value for money and innovation in the marketplace. To earn an Irish Quality Food and Drink Award, a product had to excel in every single one of these areas,

BWG Foodservice Plant Based Chocolate Ganache Ice Cream from Dae Ice Cream took home the Foodservice Product of the Year. The team from Dae and BWG Foodservice are pictured celebrating with event MCs, Karl Spain and Ruth Scott.

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Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards •

Product of the Year: The exceptional Handmade Carrot and Walnut Cake, produced by Wildberry Bakery for Dunnes Stores, captivated judges and claimed the coveted Product of the Year award.

In the Christmas Categories, Dunnes Stores continued to shine. Their festive winners included the Christmas Product of the Year Award for Dunnes Stores' Simply Better Slow Steamed 18 Month Matured Christmas Pudding, produced by Seery's Bakery, and the overall Christmas Retailer of the Year: Dunnes Stores secured yet another accolade, being named Christmas Retailer of the Year. The Aldi Ireland team celebrate being named Drinks Retailer of the Year.

A capacity crowd celebrated the 10th annual Irish Food and Drink Awards.

The team from ABP Cahir celebrate being named Supplier of the Year.

Co-MCs on the night: Karl Spain and Ruth Scott.

Aldi’s success Aldi were honoured with the prestigious title of Drinks Retailer of the Year, showcasing their commitment to providing quality beverages. Aldi took home an impressive 60 awards across their core range as well as the award-winning Specially Selected range. A range of Aldi’s gold medal-winning products were produced by Irish suppliers including ABP Tipperary, Pearse Lyons Brewing & Distilling in Dublin and The Foods of Athenry from Galway. The discount retailer was awarded gold for products including their Specially Selected Irish Black Angus 40 Day Matured 3 Rib Roast, Specially Selected Beechwood Smoked Maple Flavoured Back Bacon Rashers, Aldi’s Double Oat Kavanagh Granola and their Dot IPA. John Curtin, Group Buying Director at Aldi Ireland, said the retailer was “overjoyed” to have so many products recognised at this year’s Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards: “Over the last decade, IQFDA has established itself as one of the country’s eminent food and drink awards and it’s an honour to be among the crop of winners. We always strive to champion great Irish food and this year’s success is a credit to the amazing Irish producers and suppliers Aldi works with across the year. Thanks to their hard work and innovation, we are able to stock our shelves with the finest quality homegrown products and deliver great value to our customers.” Other key winners Stillgarden Distillery's Café O'Maro was recognised as the Drinks Product of the Year, a testament to their innovation and dedication to crafting exceptional beverages. Supplier of the Year went to ABP Cahir, underscoring their pivotal role in the industry's supply chain. BWG Foodservice Plant Based Chocolate Ganache Ice Cream from Dae Ice Cream took home the Foodservice Product of the Year. Small Producer of the Year was Seasons of the Glens for their Devil's Churn Campfire Salted Caramel Sauce. Rising Star of the Year was awarded to

FO O D TO F E E L

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We are proud to be the most awarded retailer at the Irish Quality Food Awards this year.

RETAILER OF THE YE AR CHRISTMA S RETAILER OF THE YE AR PRODUC T OF THE YE AR CHRISTMA S PRODUC T OF THE YE AR OWN L ABEL R ANGE OF THE YE AR SIMPLY BET TER

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Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards Stephen O Donnell from Country Munch, highlighting the industry's emerging talents. Setting the standards The Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards

continue to set the standard for excellence, recognising the very best in the Irish food and drink industry. These awards are a testament to the dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to quality that define the industry's leading players.

Congratulations to all the winners! For a complete list of winners and more information about the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards, please visit the official website at irish.qualityfoodawards.com.

Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards: Gold Winners Aldi Double Oat Kavanagh Granola, The Foods of Athenry Aldi Specially Selected Beechwood Smoked Maple Flavoured Back Bacon Rashers, Oakpark Foods Aldi Specially Selected Hickory Smoked Irish Streaky Bacon Rashers, Oakpark Foods Aldi Specially Selected Maple Dry Cured Beechwood Smoked Irish Back Bacon Rashers, Oakpark Foods Aldi Croissants, Delifrance Aldi 32 Day Matured Angus Fillet Barrell with Red Wine Jus, ABP Cahir Aldi Specially Selected Irish Black Angus 40 Day Matured 3 Rib Roast, ABP Cahir Dunnes Stores Simply Better Irish Angus Fillet Steaks, Tender Meats Dawn Meats Vintage Reserve Tomahawk Steak Aldi Specially Selected Tipperary Dry Aged Black Angus Rib Eye Steak, ABP Cahir Aldi Butchers Selection Beef Striploin Steak, ABP Cahir

Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Seville Orange Marmalade, Wexford Home Preserves Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Irish Ham and Vintage Irish Cheddar Quiche Lorraine, Zanna Cookhouse Karri Kitchen Mango Chicken Curry Aldi Specially Selected Ploughmans Chutney, Follain Lidl Deluxe Pork and Apple Sausages, Sean Loughnane Mallons Light Chicken Sausages, Arthur Mallon Foods Dunnes Stores Simply Better Italian Sea Salt and Olive Oil Organic Bruschetta, Perino & Perino SuperValu Signature Tastes Irish Organic Lightly Smoked Salmon Darnes, Keohane's Seafood Dunnes Stores Simply Better Italian Buffalo Burrata, Traditional Cheese Company Keeling F Juices Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice

Lidl Ginger Juice Shots Naturally Cordial Lemon and Passionfruit Dunnes Stores Simply Better French Epoisses, Traditional Cheese Company Aldi Specially Selected Tipperary Dry Aged Black Angus Striploin Steak, ABP Dunnes Stores Simply Better Italian Mascarpone and Gorgonzola, Traditional Cahir Cheese Company Dunnes Stores Simply Better Irish Angus Quick Fry Striploin Steaks, Tender Dunnes Stores Simply Better Normady Butter Vanilla Sable Biscuits, Meats Biscuiterie de l'Abbaye Dunnes Stores Simply Better Irish Angus Steakhouse Striploin for Sharing, Son's Of Butchers Chedda Cheats Tender Meats Son's Of Butchers Grated Notzarella North Cork Creameries Ór Real Irish Butter Son's Of Butchers Southern Fried Trick'n Goujons Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Buttermilk Ranch, Sage Dunnes Stores Simply Better and Neven Maguire Irish Farmhouse Cheese Little Red's Chipotle BBQ Board, Traditional Cheese Company Silver Hill Duck Fat Dunnes Stores Simply Better Irish Handmade Belgian Hot Chocolate West of Dingle Smokehouse Rub Bombes, Aine Handmade Chocolate Keogh's Sweet Chilli Crisps Lidl Deluxe Outdoor Reared Dry Cured Ham Fillet, Crowe Meats Pestle + Mortar Basil Pesto Houmous, Galmere Fresh Foods Lidl Deluxe Shredded Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze, Willowbrook Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Carrot and Walnut Cake, Wildberry Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Cinnamon, Berry and Nut Bakery Granola,The Foods of Athenry Clonmore Farm Organic Mixed Salad Leaves Aldi Specially Selected Turkey Crown Stuffed and Dressed with Streaky Dunnes Stores Simply Better West Cork Co-Op Vintage Drinagh Cheddar Bacon, IGWT Poultry Cheese, Bandon Vale Dunnes Stores Simply Better Heritage Bronze Fresh Irish Reared Turkey Lidl Deluxe Vintage Red Slices, Glenstal Breast with Cranberry, Apricot and Clementine Stuffing, Hogan's Farm Lidl Deluxe Vintage White Slices, Glenstal Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Sticky Toffee Pudding Crown, Dunnes Stores Simply Better Irish Made Butterscotch Ice Cream, Morelli What's for Pudding? Dunnes Stores Simply Better Irish Made Caramelised Hazelnut Ice Cream, Dunnes Stores Simply Better Slow Steamed 18 Month Matured Christmas Morelli Pudding, Seery's Bakery Leahy's Open Farm Ice Cream Aldi DOT IPA, DOT Brew SuperValu Signature Taste Irish Atlantic Hill Lamb Leg, Kepak Xin Gin, Ahascragh Distillers Lidl Brennans Fresh Pan, Brennan Bakeries Café O'Maro, Stillgarden Distillery ONiT! Crispy Onions Original Flavour, Milgro Aldi Zerozecco Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Irish Free Range Chicken Liver Aldi Château Billeron Bouquey Saint-Émilion Grand Cru 2018 Pate, Zanna Cookhouse Dunnes Stores Simply Better Chateau de Pierreux Brouilly Reserve Du Hanleys Puddings Mitchelstown Homemade White Pudding Chateau, Cassidy Wines Aldi Veuve Monsigny Champagne Pizza da Piero Stonebaked Pizza Bases Supervalu Irish Hampshire Smoked Roasting Bacon Joint With Spiced Brown Dunnes Stores Laurent Miquel Cote 238 Pech Gentille Albarino 2021, Laurent Miquel Sugar Glaze, Oliver Carty and Sons Dunnes Stores Simply Better Corn Fed Stuffed Chicken Crown, Manor Farm Dunnes Stores Markus Huber Gruner Veltliner 2022, Weingut Markus Huber BWG Foodservice Plant Based Chocolate Ganache Ice Cream, Dae Blackwater Honey Heather Honey Aldi Specially Selected Irish Black Angus Striploin Steak, ABP Cahir

Dunnes Stores Simply Better Handmade Mixed Berry Preserve, Wexford Home Preserves

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

Double Gold & Bronze winner Morelli’s Ice Cream produced for Dunnes Stores ‘Simply Better’ range.

Northern Ireland.

Bringing our world-class food and drink to your table. Congratulations to all of the Northern Ireland Food and Drink producers who secured a place in the final of the 2023 Irish Quality Food Awards, celebrating the best of retail, wholesale and foodservice food and drink products available in Ireland. Northern Ireland food and drink producers took home five Gold, twelve Silver and nine Bronze awards this year. It is particularly encouraging that Northern Ireland producers picked up key performance awards including the ‘Small Producer of the Year’ award for Ballycastle- based Seasons of the Glens Farm Shop for Devil’s Churn Campfire Salted Caramel Sauce. Killinchy-based convenience producer Willowbrook Foods scored a hat trick in the Christmas Side Dishes category taking Gold, Silver and Bronze for Lidl Deluxe Shredded Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze, Aldi Specially Selected Cauliflower Cheese and Aldi Specially Selected Goose Fat Roast Potatoes. Coleraine-based, Morelli’s Ice Cream, scooped Gold for Simply Better Irish Made Butterscotch Ice Cream and Simply Better Irish Made Caramelised Hazelnut Ice Cream as well as a Bronze for Simply Better Irish Made Mixed Berry Ice Cream produced in collaboration with Dunnes Stores. Many other NI companies were recognised for their innovation and hard work. You are all winners! For more information on the NI finalists wide range of quality and innovative NI food and drink products, contact Jen Guiney T:+44 (0) 7985 111024 E: jen.guiney@investni.com

Northern Ireland. Altogether more.

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Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards

NI companies score at Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards There were big wins for Northern Ireland producers at 2023 Irish Quality Food Awards. IT was an unprecedented year for Northern Ireland food and drink producers at this year’s Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards, which celebrate the best of retail, wholesale and foodservice food and drink products across the island of Ireland. Seventeen NI-based food and drink companies picked up 26 awards, including five Golds, 12 Silvers and nine Bronze awards at the 2023 Irish Quality Food Awards gala dinner, held in the Mansion House in Dublin. Small Producer of the Year Award Northern Ireland producers who picked up key ‘Performance Awards’ this year included Ballycastle-based Seasons of the Glens Farm Shop, who picked up the Small Producer of the Year Award, sponsored by Dunnes Stores Simply Better, for Devil's Churn Campfire Salted Caramel Sauce.

Devil’s Churn is crafted in small batches by Seasons of the Glens using locally smoked salt sourced from the acclaimed North Coast Smokehouse, owned by Ruraidh Morrison. This ingredient lends the sauce its distinctive name, Campfire Salted, offering a perfect harmony of depth, subtle smokiness and salted sweetness. Seasons of the Glens farm shop operates under the umbrella of Naturally North Coast and Glens CIC, an award winning not-for-profit social enterprise based in the Causeway Coast and Glens. Multiple award wins Killinchy-based fresh food producer, Willowbrook Foods, one of the most successful producers of salad bowls, bagged vegetables and ready meals for supermarkets in the UK and Ireland, scored a hat trick in the Christmas Side Dishes category, taking Gold, Silver and Bronze for Lidl Deluxe Shredded Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze, Aldi Specially Selected Cauliflower Cheese and Aldi Specially Selected Goose Fat Roast Potatoes. Coleraine-based Morelli's Ice Cream, Northern Ireland's top Italian-style ice cream producer, had a clean sweep in the

Morelli’s Ice Cream team collected double Gold and Bronze Awards in the Ice Cream & Lollies category.

Seasons of the Glens Farm Shop Devil's Churn Campfire Salted Caramel Sauce, winner of the Small Producer of the Year award, sponsored by Dunnes Stores Simply Better. Ice Cream & Lollies categories for three of the five ice cream flavours they have been producing in collaboration with Dunnes for the successful Simply Better range since December 2022. Morelli’s took Gold for Simply Better Irish Made Butterscotch Ice Cream and Simply Better Irish Made Caramelised Hazelnut Ice Cream, and a Bronze for Simply Better Irish Made Mixed Berry Ice Cream. The range is available exclusively in selected Dunnes Stores throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland. Long-term partnership Speaking of the importance of their longterm partnership with the Irish Quality Food Awards, where they are a key sponsor, Jen Guiney from Invest Northern Ireland said: “Invest NI greatly values the relationship we have with the Irish Quality Food Awards and recognise the importance of celebrating the best of retail, wholesale and foodservice food and drink products across the island of Ireland. “Retailers and foodservice operators in the Republic are increasingly recognising that Northern Ireland epitomises clean, quality food from producers dedicated to excellent customer service,” she continued. “Likewise, year on year, at the Irish Quality Food Awards, Northern Ireland food and drink producers are successfully demonstrating successful collaborations and the ability to produce award winning

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Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards retail and foodservice solutions on behalf of their customers.” Two additional Northern Ireland producers took Gold, including: Milgro’s ONiT! Crispy Onions Original Flavour in the Meal Accompaniments category and Karri Kitchen’s Mango Chicken Curry in the Ready Meals category. “Many other NI companies were recognised for their innovation and hard work,” concluded Jen Guiney. “You are all winners!” For more information on the NI finalists wide range of quality and innovative NI food and drink products, contact Jen Guiney The Karri Kitchen team picking up their Gold in the T: +44 (0) 7985 111024 E: jen.guiney@investni.com Ready Meals category.

The Milgro team picking up Gold and Silver in the Meal Accompaniments category.

NI Winners Irish Quality Food Awards Small Producer of the Year: Seasons of the Glens Farm Shop for Devil's Churn Campfire Salted Caramel Sauce. Christmas Category Winners - Christmas Side Dishes: Gold, Silver & Bronze for Willowbrook Foods for Lidl Deluxe Shredded Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze, Aldi Specially Selected Cauliflower Cheese and Aldi Specially Selected Goose Fat Roast Potatoes respectively. Foodservice Winners Vegan Products – Silver for Rich Sauces Vegan Mayonnaise. Drinks Category Winners Lager - Bronze for McCrackens Premium Pilsner. All Year Round Category Winners Breakfast Products - Ambient Breakfast Products: Silver award for Kestrel Foods Delicious Berry Granola produced for Dunnes Stores & Bronze for White's Speedicook Organic Porridge Oats produced for Aldi. Condiments: Silver for Honed Flavours for Simply Better Aromatic Korma Cooking Sauce

produced for Dunnes Stores & Two Silvers for Carol’s Stock Market for Simply Better Irish Made Free Range Chicken Stock & Simply Better Irish Made Slow Cooked Bone Broth produced for Dunnes Stores. Crisps: Bronze for Glens of Antrim ‘Simply Better Hand Cooked Crinkle Cut Pickled Onion Crisps’ produced for Dunnes Stores. Deli - Meat Antipasti & Sliced Meats: Silver for Corndale Farm’s Simply Better Handmade Irish Salami with Fennel, produced for Dunnes Stores, and a Bronze for Corndale Farm’s Simply Better Handmade Irish Chorizo, produced for Dunnes Stores. Free From Gluten: Silver for Crust & Crumb Bakery’s Gluten Free Pepperoni Pizza produced for SuperValu. Ice Cream & Lollies: Gold for Morelli’s Simply Better Irish Made Butterscotch Ice Cream and Simply Better Irish Made Caramelised Hazelnut Ice Cream, both for Dunnes Stores, and a Bronze for Morelli’s Simply Better Irish Made Mixed Berry Ice Cream for Dunnes Stores.

Meal Accompaniments: Gold for Milgro’s ONiT! Crispy Onions Original Flavour and Silver for Milgro’s ONiT! Crispy Onions Flame Grilled Flavour. Meat – Pork: Bronze for Karro Foods Deluxe Pork Fillet Medallions with a Creamy Apple Cider Sauce, produced for Lidl. Pizzas: Silver for Crust & Crumb Ham, Portobello Mushroom and Marscapone Woodfired Sourdough Pizza produced for Lidl. Preserves and Sweet Spreads: Bronze for Devil's Churn Campfire Salted Caramel Sauce, Seasons of the Glens Farm Shop. Ready Meals: Gold for Karri Kitchen Mango Chicken Curry. Soft Drinks: Silver for Jackson Roze Extra Strength Ginger Wine & a Silver for Moocha Kombucha Organic Elderflower and Lemon Kombucha. Vegan & Vegetarian: Bronze for Kestrel Foods Fruit Bites Strawberry & Beetroot produced for The Happy Pear.

24|Retail News|October 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Barry Group Conference & Awards

Barry Group rewards excellence The Barry Group Conference & Awards were back for the first time since the pandemic, where the Group revealed a significant rebrand for its symbol group stores and parent brand, as well as celebrating the Stores and Suppliers of the Year. BARRY Group recently held their conference and awards in Lyrath Estate, Kilkenny, the first time this event has taken place since the Covid-19 pandemic. The theme for this year’s event tied into the company’s purpose, ‘Growing Together’. “We truly believe in the power of partnership and believe for success to be achieved, we must go on the journey collectively,” explained Jim Barry, Managing Director, Barry Group. “Therefore, to fuel this growth, we brought together our customers, suppliers and the Barry Group team with the aim of creating an event that equipped our retailers with

the relevant and actionable information to elevate their business to new levels of success.” Keynote speaker at the Barry Group conference was Sharon Yourell Lawlor of Think Plan Do Consulting, who presented on how to engage customers and maximise sales. Other speakers at the event engaged on a wealth of topics, including DRS, branding, training and development, and sustainability. Additionally, Barry Group were thankful to have their event sponsors, Britvic, Diageo and Mondelez speak at the event and share how they too were aiding retailers to soar towards retail excellence.

Winners of the Suntory Costcutter Store of the Year were Durkin’s Costcutter Baile na hAbhann. Jim Barry, MD, Barry Group (left) and Richard Grace, Commercial Controller, Suntory Beverage and Food (right), are pictured presenting the award to store owner Ciaran Durkin.

Rebranding the portfolio A key highlight of the conference was the introduction of the rebrand of Barry Group’s brand portfolio, as presented by Alan Cronin, Marketing Manager. This rebrand forms a key element of the Group’s commitment to growth as they aim to double their turnover in the next five years. “As we enter this new era in the history of our business, which will be landmarked by growth and acceleration, we wanted to ensure that our brands were in line and represented this plan,” Alan stressed. “Therefore, we engaged with multiple design partners to work with us in

Diageo were named Supplier of the Year. Jim Barry presents the award to Diageo’s Catherine Kirkpatrick, National Account Manager, and Rory McHugh, Head of Commercial.

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Barry Group Conference & Awards developing the future of not only Costcutter and Carry Out, but Barry Group also.” The new visual identities for their symbol groups, Costcutter and Carry Out, are also accompanied by new store specs which aim to further enhance the customer experience in-store. Barry Group Awards Following the conference, the Barry Group Awards celebrated the high standards within the group across Costcutter, Carry Out and the business’ valued supply partners. “We feel that when an effort is made, credit is due”, shared Edwina Lucey, Sales Director. “The purpose of our Barry Group Awards is to recognise the stores and retailers that excel across all areas of performance, ensuring a customercentric, superior offering. Additionally, we also celebrate the suppliers who are committed to aiding our customers on this journey through their commitment to our business and their fantastic service level. This is an event that I always enjoy; it is fantastic to see so many of our partners being recognised for their commitment to excellence.” Deservingly winning the overall Costcutter Store of the Year award, Durkin’s Costcutter Baile na hAbhann, Galway, represents the very best in the Costcutter retail group. The award is a true testament to the hard work and vision of a passionate and dedicated team. Continuing the celebrations, Heffernan’s Carry Out, Tipperary Town, were awarded Carry Out Store of the Year and were extremely worthy recipients due to their impeccable service offering and continuous dedication to enhancing customer experience. Rewarding sustainability The Barry Group Supplier of the Year Awards saw an introduction of a new category, Sustainable Supplier of the Year, which was won by Britvic. “While we are committed to our Sustainability Strategy, we acknowledge that we cannot create a sustainable future alone; it requires collaboration,” explained Holly Barry, Brand Strategist. “Therefore, this year we have introduced a new award category for our suppliers that recognises a supplier who has a continuous focus on sustainable innovation to help make a difference to our planet.” While there were many worthy winners across multiple categories, the coveted Supplier of the Year title was awarded to Diageo in recognition of their high level of service and their ongoing collaboration to ensure that Barry Group customers have a premium service offering.

Mondelez were named Best Ambient Supplier. Jim Barry, MD, Barry Group, is pictured presenting the award to Kevin O’Sullivan, National Field Sales & Development Manager, Mondelez.

The Sustainable Supplier of the Year Award went to Britvic Ireland. Pictured are (l-r): Niall Hartnett, Buying Director, Barry Group; Allen Lynch, Account Manager, Britvic; and Niall O'Leary, Buying Manager, Barry Group.

Heffernan’s Carry Out in Tipperary Town was named winner of the Diageo Carry Out Store of the Year Award. Pictured at the presentation are (l-r): Jim Barry, MD, Barry Group, with Marie Heffernan, Michelle Heffernan, Stephen Cunningham, and Rory McHugh, Head of Commercial, Diageo.

Pictured at the presentation of the Costcutter Store 2,501-3,500 sq. ft Award to Wallace’s Costcutter, Wellingtonbridge, Co. Wexford, are (l-r): Paul Roche, Head of Costcutter; Joseph Wallace, Ger Cruise, Edwina Lucey, Sales Director, Barry Group, and Costcutter Account Manager; Barry O’Sullivan.

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Barry Group Conference & Awards

Tayto Snacks won the Best Ambient Central Billing Supplier Award. Pictured are (l-r): Niall Hartnett, Buying Director, Barry Group; Damien O’Reilly, Head of National Sales, Tayto Snacks; and Niall O'Leary, Buying Manager, Barry Group.

The Aryzta Costcutter Best Deli Award went to Costcutter Burgess Cross. Jim Barry, MD, Barry Group, is pictured (left) presenting the award to Tommy Mullane and Keith Bradshaw, Key Account Manager, Aryzta.

Costcutter Windy Arbour won the Tayto Snacks Costcutter Best Impulse Offering Award. Pictured are (l-r): Damien O’Reilly and Aaron Massey, with Barry Group MD, Jim Barry.

Fleming’s Carry Out from Tralee Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry, was named Irish Distillers Carry Out Best Whiskey Store. Pictured are (l-r): Dave O’Keeffe, Head of Carry Out, Barry Group; Michelle Tracey, National Account Manager, Irish Distillers; John Fleming, David Long, Edwina Lucey, Sales Director, Barry Group; and Declan McKenna, Carry Out Account Manager, Barry Group.

McCarthy’s Carry Out, St. John’s Square, Limerick, were named Carry Out Own Label Champion. Pictured are (l-r): Jim Barry, MD, Barry Group, with Helen McCarthy, Pat McCarthy and Neil McCarthy.

The team at Candy’s Costcutter Carnew, Co. Wicklow, celebrate winning the Costcutter Best Local Initiative Award, (l-r): Veronica Kenny, Christine Sullivan, Paul Roche, Head of Costcutter; Michael Kelly, Edwina Lucey, Sales Director, Barry Group; Barry O'Sullivan, Costcutter Account Manager; Christina O’Brien, Emma Pierce.

Winners of the Costcutter Store 3,500 sq. ft+ Award were Doherty’s Costcutter Carndonagh, Co. Donegal. Pictured are (l-r): Paul Roche, Head of Costcutter; store owner Michael Doherty; Edwina Lucey, Sales Director, Barry Group; and John Page, Account Manager, Barry Group.

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Barry Group Conference & Awards

Pictured at the presentation of the Costcutter Stores up to 2,500 sq. ft Award to Durkin’s Costcutter Bailen a hAbhann, are (l-r): Paul Roche, Head of Costcutter; store owner Ciaran Durkin; David Flahive, Account Manager, Barry Group; and Edwina Lucey, Sales Director, Barry Group.

Heffernan’s Carry Out, Tipperary Town, were winners of the Carry Out North West Award. Barry Group MD, Jim Barry, is pictured presenting the award to Marie Heffernan, Michelle Heffernan and Stephen Cunningham.

Galvin’s Carry Out Carrigaline were the winners of the Carry Out South West Award. Jim Barry, MD, Barry Group, is pictured presenting the award to Vicky Alexander and David Kinsella.

Michelle Madden from Downey’s Carry Out, Barrack St, Waterford, accepts the Carry Out South East Award from Jim Barry, MD, Barry Group.

O’Brien’s Carry Out Tyrrelstown, Dublin 15, were named Carry Out Best Beer Store. Pictured are (l-r): Dave O’Keeffe, Head of Carry Out, with Kevin O’Brien, Caoimhe O’Brien, Fionn O’Brien, Edwina Lucey, Sales Director, Barry Group, and Eamon Walsh, Carry Out Account Manager.

Peter Reynolds from Reynolds’ Carry Out, Clongriffin, Dublin 13, is pictured receiving the Carry Out North East Award from Jim Barry, MD, Barry Group.

28|Retail News|October 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Sellotape

Sellotape wrapping happiness

Sellotape is a ‘must stock’ brand for Christmas, as the iconic brand remains an essential part of gift-giving for generations of consumers.

ESTABLISHED in West London in the 1930s, Sellotape has been a popular household name for more than 80 years, since it was originally created by applying natural rubber resin to cellophane film. Following the creation of Original Golden Tape, whatever the occasion, Sellotape has been at the heart of our culture. From helping people celebrate life’s precious moments through gift wrapping to sticking London windowpanes together throughout the Blitz, Sellotape has a brought people together for decades. With its reputation as the nation’s favourite sticky tape, the Sellotape brand continues to grow from strength to strength, with the word ‘Sellotape’ even making its own entry into the English Dictionary in 1980. A festive favourite Generous gifts, moreish mince pies

and stuffed stockings: some aspects of the holiday season never change. The same is true for festive wrapping. With Christmas approaching, as an iconic brand, Sellotape recognises the importance of ‘wrapping happiness’, sharing the joy within every gift given. Not only does the season exhibit the magic of Christmas but it also inspires the creativity within individuals. Whether consumers are wrapping a gift or creating their own personal crafts, Sellotape continues to present ways to delight and excite shoppers.

Sellotape’s Original Golden Tape has been a firm favourite for decades.

Sellotape Zero Plastic Preparing wrapping in advance or hastily the night before, everyone wraps in their own way. Although each individual’s style of wrapping may never change, the message behind it will. With Sellotape Zero

Plastic, consumers can take the next step to becoming more sustainable through this plantbased alternative, whether at home, school or even in the office. A Sellotape Zero Plastic must have allows consumers to in all shops! take the next step Looking to becoming more at the past, sustainable through this present and plant-based alternative. future of Sellotape, it is clear why Sellotape’s plant-based alternative is the saviour of festive wrapping – all without needing to harm the environment with the tape being used. At a time of magic and joy, Sellotape continues the tradition to be the ‘must have’ for everyone’s shopping list; share the love in being a part of someone’s journey to wrapping happiness this festive season.

30|Retail News|October 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Personal Care: Interview Paddy Carmody, Head of Marketing – Ireland, Beiersdorf, talks us through the trends that are driving the evolution of the personal care category, the innovations that continue to fuel growth and how Nivea manages to remain top of mind with consumers.

Skin in the game! PADDY Carmody, Beiersdorf’s Head of Marketing for Ireland, has more than a decade’s experience with Nivea, the world’s number one skincare brand. He discusses the impact of innovation on a sector where consumers are constantly on the lookout for the next big thing, and how Nivea’s research and development team are constantly pushing boundaries and launching ground-breaking innovations. How has the Nivea brand and the personal care sector in general performed over the last year? We had a good start to 2023, gaining share across the bulk of our categories and primarily driven by our skincare categories: bodycare, lip, hand and suncare. We are the world’s number one skincare brand and it’s great to see us doing so well in the Irish market. It is also great to see that our fantastic Nivea Sun brand is gaining share and has over 50% of the market but more importantly is growing the category through our educational comms and creating overall awareness around being safe in the sun!

How has the cost-of-living crisis affected the market? Nivea is the world’s number one skincare brand and two of the attributes of our brand, that consumers play back to us time and time again, are that Nivea is a trusted brand and that Nivea is a good value brand. Therefore, we tend to do well in tough times, as consumers look for trusted brands and also tend to trade down from more expensive brands. We also work closely with our retailers and try and ensure that we are offering good value in stores, be that twin-pack promotions, gift with purchases, competitions etc. Which categories have been the strongest performers and why do you think this is? We are seeing great growth in the bodycare category, as well as the handcare, lipcare and suncare categories, with Nivea outperforming the market and helping to grow the overall category. How has Nivea performed across the breadth of categories in which you operate? Good question. Unlike a lot of our

competitors, we only play in one area and that is skincare, this includes our deodorant brand, where we ensure we can provide the efficacy that is required within this category but also adds in the skin caring element that is synonymous with Nivea. We look at high penetration categories like deodorant and shower gels as a way to bring consumers into our brand. We then look to trade them up, by bringing them into skincare categories. So, we spend a lot of time on what we called Nivea Masterbrand activities, whereby we bring all our categories together in-store. Sometimes this is on a Gondola end or else it can be through an event like Father’s Day or via our gifting team. What are the main trends driving the sector forward? It is great to see that more and more consumers are looking for products that contain SPF in them. It means our work as Ireland’s number one suncare brand is paying off as consumers look for daily protection, even outside of the summer months. This is why we introduced SPF 15

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Personal Care: Interview where we have come with some amazing NPD e.g., Nivea Luminous AA range or our fantastic Derma Clear range. All consumers and shoppers love new news. Who doesn’t? Therefore, retailers are no different. Retailers want to stock the new news that brings shoppers into their stores. Two key pillars for us at Beiersdorf Ireland are consumer-centricity and R&D investment: we call ourselves the inventor of modern-day skincare. In our Nivea manifesto, we talk about staying close to consumers and markets and this ensures that our consumers are at the heart of anything we do. The reason we are having such success with our NPD launches such as our Nivea Q60+ range or Nivea Men Hyaluron range is because the hard work has already been done several years prior by our fantastic research and development team, who are constantly pushing boundaries and launching ground-breaking innovations. For example, we were the first mass brand to launch sun protection and men’s skincare.

The Nivea Luminous range helps to tackle dark spots and sun spots.

The reason we are having such success with our NPD launches such as our Nivea Q60+ range or Nivea Men Hyaluron range is because the hard work has already been done several years prior by our fantastic research and development team, who are constantly pushing boundaries and launching ground-breaking innovations.

”

to our very popular Nivea Men moisturiser, and it is flying off the shelves!! Also, great to see more uptake on face-specific sun creams and smaller suncare formats as parents look to provide their children with products for their school bags, playground bags etc. Even within female face care, we are seeing more consumers trading up to high SPF factors and this is why we brought our fantastic Nivea Luminous range to Ireland, which helps to tackle dark spots and sun spots! How important is innovation to the sector in general and to Nivea in particular? NPD is very important to us, our consumers and retail partners. The importance depends on the category. For example, the body category has relatively low penetration so new news is a great way of increasing that penetration and bringing new users into that category. This is where our Nivea Body grad tan is a great category addition, as it brings people into the category. Face is another category that needs new news. Consumers are constantly looking for the next big thing and that is

“

New Nivea Energy Micellar Water is tapping into the trend for more Micellar usage, with more women preferring to use reusable face cloths.

Can you tell us about any new products/ innovations which will be coming onstream in the year ahead? As we are a brand that stays close to our consumers, to market trends, we are always bringing new products to the market. As mentioned earlier, we have just launched our fantastic anti age range, Nivea Luminous, that is flying off the shelves, so we will be looking to roll that out further and add to the range. We also have our new Derma range that is just about to hit the shelves. Not leaving the men behind, we also have a fantastic Nivea Men Lumen range that is coming to the market. This is a lovely anti age range with patented technology that you see visible results within seven days. My personal favourite is the serum!!

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Personal Care: Interview We see ourselves as the ‘Inventor of Modern-Day Skincare’ and we are constantly pushing ourselves to ensure that we are exceeding our customer needs Nivea is famous for its innovation in all its categories, especially within the facecare and bodycare categories. Our launch of our Nivea Luminous range has brought some great excitement and new news to the anti-age face market and is testament to our great NPD pipeline. We strive to produce the very best products for our consumers, and over the years we have proved ourselves time and time again. We are seen as the skincare experts and as such, we are known as a brand that consumers can trust, allowing us to remain at the top of the industry.

New Nivea Men Anti-Age Power Moisturiser, part of the Nivea Men Lumen range.

How has Nivea managed to maintain such a strong position over such a long period of time across the sector when consumers are always looking for the ‘new’ brand and the next big thing? Trust. Nivea is a household name in most countries, and it is seen by its consumers as a trusted and caring skincare brand. Nivea tends to hold top market positions in the categories it plays in. For example, Nivea is Ireland’s number one creams / lotions/oils brand, bodycare brand, men’s brand and sun brand etc. In addition to trust being synonymous with Nivea, another main reasons that we maintain our number one position year after year is because we stay close to our consumers and the markets we operate in. Whether that is by improving existing products, such as how our Nivea Wipes are now 100% biodegradable, or by bringing new products to the market like Nivea Q10 60+, which is a fantastic product that caters for mature skin and is an NPD that is based on a real consumer need. In other words, we give the consumer what they want.

Nivea continues to bring innovation to the market, including new Nivea Derma Skin Clear Chemical Exfoliator,

The New Nivea Derma Skin Clear range includes Toner, with Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide, promising visibly clearer skin in seven days.

How do you expect the market to perform in the coming months and year? I believe the trend of consumers looking for more SPF protection is here to stay. This is great to see as it means awareness and education is paying off. We are seeing female consumers moving up from lower SPFs, seeing male consumers looking for SPF products in both core daily products and anti-range products and we are even seeing more hand, lip and body products coming to the market with SPF. Within female cleansing, we are seeing more Micellar usage, with this cleansing segment second to wipes and wipes declining YOY, with more women preferring to use reusable face cloths.

Win a Nivea

Skincare Hamper

To be in with a chance of winning a fantastic Nivea skincare hamper, please email your answer to the following question, together with your name, postal address and phone number to info@retailnews.ie. Question: What year was NIVEA founded? A) 1900

B) 1921

C) 1911

Closing date for entries is November 24, 2023. Terms and conditions apply. Judge’s decision is final. No cash alternative will be offered. The competition is open to residents of the Island of Ireland aged 18 & older. Prize delivered to within the Island of Ireland only. *Products may differ/vary from picture.

WEEE Ireland’s blue battery box collection moves in-house WEEE Ireland have announced that their blue battery box collection and delivery programme for small retailers, newsagents and forecourts via Newspread is no longer available. Instead, stores previously utilising this service should contact WEEE Ireland directly.   Retailers can now book a blue battery box delivery or collection by simply emailing operations@weeeireland.ie or logging onto weeeireland.ie.

34|Retail News|October 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Retail Ireland: Monthly Update

Cost spiral compounds labour market challenge RAPIDLY rising labour market costs remain the key concern for retail businesses. Employment growth has slowed over recent months, as it becomes increasingly difficult to recruit. At the same time, a range of Government reforms are significantly pushing up labour costs. The total labour force continues to grow along with employment, with an additional 86,600 entering the Irish labour force over the past year. The record low unemployment rate of 4%, meanwhile, points to an economy at full employment and struggling to meet labour demand. Recent surveys suggest a fifth of those working part-time, more than 500,000 people, are underemployed and would prefer to work more hours. At a time of full employment and growing pressure in the labour market, ensuring the country has the labour it needs to sustain growth will require improved workplace accessibility, child and elder-care supports, and supports for workers with disabilities. Both the underemployment figures and numbers facing barriers to work indicate there is still scope to increase labour supply within the existing population if the correct policy approach is taken. While staff shortages are an ongoing challenge, retailers are also grappling with the cost implications of recent employment reforms. This has been a major focus of the work of Retail Ireland over recent months. The most significant of these changes are the Living Wage and pensions autoenrollment, both of which are due to be introduced next year. The Programme for Government gave a commitment to “Progress to a living wage over the lifetime of the Government” and “to gradually deliver an automatic enrolment scheme”. These have been progressed over recent years, with a planned 12.4% increase in the national minimum wage from January.

The Government has estimated that a national living wage set at 60% of hourly median wages would equate to approximately €13.10 per hour right now; by 2026 this threshold would amount to around €15 per hour. Meanwhile, pensions autoenrollment will add 1.5% to the employer contributions for enrolled employees in year one, rising to 3% by year three. For labour intensive retail businesses, particularly SMEs, the cost of implementing increases in pensions coverage and wage floors will be much, much higher than other sectors, and incredibly challenging to manage. For many retailers, the move to a living wage will result in additional increase of approximately 22% in employment costs over the coming years. This level of adjustment demands very significant support for businesses from Government, and Retail Ireland will continue to work to ensure this is put in place.

Consumers remain cautious despite improved outlook CONSUMER sentiment improved steadily as we moved through the first half of the year, but many remain cautious. A year ago, the mood was bleak, with heightened concern over energy costs and inflation. Some of these fears have eased, as inflation has dropped, but many are still concerned about rising costs. The global economic outlook remains at very best uncertain, and many Irish households remain under significant financial pressure. Consumer spending in the first half of the year was somewhat subdued. Sluggish retail sales volumes were offset by a rapid bounce-back in spending in the experience economy, with accommodation up 12% annually and foodservice up 30% on the same period in 2022. This activity, to some extent, reflects changing consumption patterns relative to a period where the Covid pandemic remained an influence on consumer behaviour.

Tel: 01-6051558 |

As we move toward the end of 2023, there are several trends which should support growth in consumer spending, and hopefully further improve sentiment. Employment will continue to rise, albeit at a more moderate pace. More importantly, wage growth will again begin to rise in real terms, after accounting for inflation, for the rest of 2023 and into 2024, although this will be offset somewhat by the lagged impact of rising interest rates and rents for some households. We expect that overall consumer spending will grow by 4.2% this year, a modest upgrade on our Q1 forecast of 3.5%. However, we expect to see some further slowdown in the growth of consumer spending in 2024 toward 4%, with improvements in real incomes offset by a less rapid expansion in employment, the withdrawal of fiscal supports and the lagged impact of rising interest rates.

www.retailireland.ie

Need more? For more information about Retail Ireland and details of how your retail business can benefit from our unique services and supports, please visit us at www.retailireland.ie.

Join Ireland’s leading family-owned forecourt & convenience retailer. Ready for an exciting new retail challenge? Maxol is seeking applications for Licensees for a number of service stations in the Dublin City & Leinster region. These fantastic newly refurbished Maxol forecourts offer state-of-the-art convenience experiences that include: • • • • • •

Modern internal fitout and fixtures Maxol Deli ROSA Coffee A fresh neighbourhood grocery offer New look off-licence / wine section And bags more!

If this opportunity excites you, we want to hear from you! Download your application pack: www.maxol.ie/business-opportunity

CMY

36|Retail News|October 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Fuels: Flogas

Why you should partner with Flogas Partnering with Flogas as a cylinder retailer has a host of advantages for your business.

WHEN it comes to offering your customers a range of high quality butane gas cylinders, there are a host of benefits to partnering with Flogas as a cylinder retailer. These include: 1. Comprehensive support: From setup to ongoing operational assistance, you can depend on Flogas expertise. All Flogas retailers benefit from a dedicated cylinder representative in their area and an established network of distributors that ensure reliable, consistent local service. Add full access to a suite of services, including Technical Support, Customer Services and Sales and Marketing assistance, and you will see why signing up to Flogas makes sense. 2. Brand credibility: A trusted name in the energy industry, Flogas are renowned for their high-quality products and reliable services. Continuous investment in marketing and promotional activities actively benefit retailers. It is this collective effort that will boost your visibility and attract more customers. 3. Safety: Flogas operate a rigorous ‘Cylinder

Retesting Programme’ on all empty cylinders prior to refilling and cylinders are fitted with secure, tamper-proof cylinder seals (Securiseal). Safety is a priority at Flogas and with a 24-hour emergency service in operation, you can be sure that assistance will be there should you need it. 4. Innovative technology: Flogas are the only company in Ireland offering the Gaslight cylinder. Half the weight of traditional steel cylinders, they are easier to carry and particularly useful for boats, caravans and outdoor entertaining.

establishing your business as a cornerstone of support. Becoming a Flogas retailer is not just a business venture but rather a strategic partnership that empowers you with the resources, expertise and credibility needed for long-term success. And don’t forget that as a fully owned Irish company, working with Flogas means that you are supporting local, Irish jobs.

5. Community engagement: Flogas retailers often find themselves deeply integrated into local communities. By providing an essential energy source, you become a vital part of the community, fostering relationships Flogas offer a range of modern, high quality and safe cylinders. and

LPG

Become a Flogas retailer Get ready for the winter season by stocking up on our full range of cylinders. Sign up to our official dealer database so customer can easily find your store! Call us now for more information: ROI:

041 214 9600 NI:

028 9073 2611

38|Retail News|October 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Fuels: Calor Gas

Calor Gas: sealed for quality AS the colder weather sets in, Calor Gas would like to remind all gas cylinder users to always purchase a high-quality cylinder that has gone through rigorous safety checks. All Calor’s cylinders go through a seven-point safety check before leaving their depots in Cork and Belfast, to ensure that the highest quality cylinders arrive with their customers. Calor carry out rigorous safety and quality checks every time they fill a cylinder.

Calor carry out rigorous safety and quality checks every time they fill a cylinder.

Unique safety seal All of Calor’s cylinders are weighed to ensure they are not over-filled or underfilled; the valves are inspected, their specialised leak testing machines test for gas leaks from the valves and many other safety checks are done before placing the unique Calor safety seal on the cylinder. It is imperative for customer safety that when

All Calor Gas cylinders go through a sevenpoint safety check before placing the unique Calor safety seal on each cylinder. purchasing a cylinder, you always check that that there is a seal and that the seal is not broken. For more information, please visit calorgas.ie.

Always check for the Calor Seal of Quality on your new cylinder. Become a Calor Stockist Now! Visit Calorgas.ie for more

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Drinks News O’Driscoll’s: the Irish-owned blended whiskey STAFFORD Bonded are proud to launch their first release, a new and exciting wholly Irish-owned Whiskey, O’Driscoll’s Irish Whiskey. Crafted by the direct descendants of the O’Driscoll clan, O’Driscoll’s Irish Whiskey is a tribute to their famous pirate ancestors from Baltimore, West Cork, who patrolled Ireland’s wild Atlantic coast. An exceptional blend of golden grain and malted barley, O’Driscoll’s Irish Whiskey is triple distilled and aged in bourbon casks for a minimum of three years, giving it its signature super smoothness. The influence of 100% bourbon cask maturation beautifully enhances the sweet vanilla profile of O’Driscoll’s Irish Whiskey. O’Driscoll’s is owned by Stafford Bonded, a fourth-generation Irish business, who understand that to build a brand requires investment at all levels. To this end, they are working with their local rugby club to rename Wexford Wanderers ground as O’Driscoll’s Park, as well as working with Horse Racing Ireland and past and present Irish rugby players. “We wanted to create an exciting new, pitch perfect product, in terms of quality, price and provenance, for people who simply want the best blended Irish Whiskey,” explains Michael Stafford, Managing Director, Stafford Bonded. “O’Driscoll’s is a more accessible whiskey, targeting a younger, tech-savvy, engaged consumer. O’Driscoll’s is a beautifully blended exceptionally smooth Irish Whiskey, which is currently the only Irish-owned Irish Whiskey in the standard blend category. “Inspired by my grandfather Diarmuid O’Driscoll, the O’Driscolls were a famous pirate clan from Baltimore, West Cork. The O’Driscolls were men of the sea. They were pirates and smugglers who built castles and harbours in West Cork and by the fifteenth century, we were one of the strongest clans in Ireland. O’Driscoll’s Irish Whiskey is a tribute to those famous men of the sea and encapsulates that wild Atlantic spirit of adventure, bravery and survival.” Irish Whiskey is in a renaissance, but new entrants into the category are often over-premiumised. Given O’Driscoll’s positioning within the Irish whiskey market, they can provide a high quality, competitively priced brand to complete with the foreign owned category leaders. O’Driscoll’s Irish Whiskey is available nationwide to the on-trade from distributors such as Comans, GH Lett’s, Murphys and Celtic Whiskey, and is also available in all good independent off licenses.

Slam dunk for Hennessy with NBA bottle

WORLD-renowned cognac house, Hennessy are launching an exclusive NBA limited edition bottle of Very Special (V.S.) to celebrate the 2023/2024 NBA season. ‘Game Never Stops’ encapsulates Hennessy's vision of basketball as a thriving global sensation, signifying a mission to share the vibrant culture worldwide, both on and off the court. The NBA Season 3 V.S. bottle is a collector’s dream, featuring a striking design that reflects the synergy between Hennessy and the NBA. The bottle showcases the iconic Game Never Stops emblem, symbolising the unyielding determination of athletes and enthusiasts alike. The Hennessy x NBA Limited Edition V.S bottle at €41 is available exclusively in 30 select Tesco stores across Ireland.

A Titanic undertaking in Belfast! FOR the first time in almost 90 years, the production of whiskey is under way again in Belfast, on the site of the historic Thompson Dock and Pumphouse, the birthplace of the Titanic. Drinks company Titanic Distillers has invested almost Stg£8 million to convert the Pumphouse, a listed building in the heart of Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, into the city’s first working whiskey distillery since the days of prohibition in the 1930s. Titanic Distillers directors Peter Lavery (left) and Stephen Symington (right) joined Head Distiller Damien Rafferty to celebrate as production started and the shiny new copper stills are now up and firing at the distillery. For more information, visit www.titanicdistillers.com.

40|Retail News|October 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Home Baking

Loving’ the oven With home baking firmly established as a trend, we look at some of the products set to fly off your shelves.

THE home baking craze really took off during the Covid-19 pandemic, as a nation found itself stuck at home and looking for ways to utilise its latent creativity, test its oven ability and also have some fun. Many of these home creations ended up on social media, as we sought to connect with our socially distanced friends and family through the media of bread and cake; more than one commentator dubbed 2020 the year of the sourdough revolution, while families used home-baking as a means of creating a sense of togetherness as parents and children got stuck in, with the added bonus of creating some super tasty treats, and often learning a new skill (and not just for the kids). While for some households, the bubbling sourdough starter was consigned to the rubbish bin as soon as the foodservice sector re-opened its doors, many families have continued to indulge their home-baking talents post-pandemic, as they create breads, cakes, biscuits and more.

Gem Pack Foods Gem Pack Foods started out in 1967 as a small importer of specialist dried fruit, nuts and seeds. Over time, their products have been used by Irish customers to create wholesome and home-baked treats for their families to enjoy. Today, in homes, cafes, restaurants, hotels and more, Gem products can be found everywhere. Gem Pack Foods are a wholly owned Irish company with over 100 employees and they are committed to the same level of excellence today as they have been for over 50 years. They are committed to producing high quality products and source the best ingredients from all over the world to provide an extensive range of products to serve all levels of bakers. “Baking has a way of bringing the whole family together to create something special,” explains Agnes Chvojka, marketing executive at Gem. “Gem Pack Foods are passionate about baking and cooking, and we are on a mission to constantly develop new products and packaging formats. Our goal is to provide our consumers with the finest ingredients packed in convenient

formats to make life in the kitchen easy and fun for everyone.” Sure to prove popular in the coming weeks, Gem Christmas Fruit Mixes include a selection of the finest dried fruits that your customers need for making that

Gem Christmas Fruit Mixes include a selection of the finest dried fruits that your customers need for making that all-important Christmas Cake or Pudding.

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Home Baking all-important Christmas cake or pudding. The pack contains the perfect amount, so there’s no need for bakers to stock up individual items, saving space on-shelf, while it also means there is zero waste.

but that’s not all. Customers can make a soft and creamy icing that’s perfect for decorating sugar cookies and cupcakes, hassle-free. Only a bit of water needs to be added (alternatively some food colouring) and it’s ready for decorating any festive bakes. Approximately two thirds of annual instant royal icing sales occur in November and December as consumers look to decorate their Christmas bakes.

The Gem nut range includes nibbed and ground almonds, desiccated coconut, golden marzipan and much more. The Christmas Cake Mix includes all the fruit needed for a perfect Christmas cake: sultanas, raisins, cherries, diced apricots, golden raisins, currants and mixed peel.

Hot Chip Having successfully introduced a recipe for the perfect cookie dough, Dublin’s awardwinning Hot Chip have now launched a super-convenient new range of ready-tobake dough balls in 81 select Tesco stores across the country and online at www.hotchipdublin.com, making it easier than ever before to enjoy their warm freshfrom-the-oven cookies at home. The handy new dough balls range comes in three rich and luxurious flavours: Original Chocolate Chip, White Chocolate Chip, and Hot Chip’s brand new Salted Caramel, which recently received 2-stars signifying it as an ‘outstanding’ product - at the Great Taste Awards 2023. They’re the perfect treat to have to hand, especially in the run-up to Christmas, with each 270g pack containing six conveniently pre-portioned handmade dough balls, enough to make six mediumsized cookies, which can be easily stored in your fridge for up to 10 weeks, or your freezer, where the dough will keep for months until ready to use.

Gem sugars, including Granulated and Demerara, are suitable for all occasions and needs. At the heart of the iconic Gem brand is their vast range of sugars, including Caster, Granulated, Muscovado, Icing, Demerara and so on, for all occasions and needs. Whether customers are looking for sugar for tea, coffee, baking ingredients or cake decorating, Gem have it all for convenient use. Gem Chocolate Chips range, consisting of milk, dark and white chocolate have now been added to the range and are available to order from your local wholesaler.

Hot Chip’s super-convenient new range of ready-to-bake Cookie Dough Balls. Gem Royal Icing is set for a bumper festive season, as consumers look to decorate their Christmas bakes. Up to 50% of annual ground almond sales happen in the last three months of the year during the heavy Christmas baking season. Whether shoppers bake, cook, garnish or simply snack, they can choose from Gem’s comprehensive nut range, including ground, nibbed, flaked, blanched or whole almonds, walnuts, desiccated coconut and golden marzipan. Gem Instant Royal Icing is perfect for decorating Christmas and fruit cakes

Gem Chocolate Chips are available in milk, dark and white chocolate.

Hot Chip’s gourmet quality handmade cookie dough is lovingly crafted using the best of ingredients, including a decadent combination of real Irish butter and luxurious Belgian chocolate, plus it’s completely free from any artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. “We are delighted to be launching this exciting new Hot Chip product onto Tesco’s shelves in the lead-up to Christmas time as they’re the perfect treat to have in the fridge or freezer for the busy festive period,” noted David McSharry, founder, Hot Chip.

Food safety training. We can help take it off your plate. safefood for business is a FREE food safety eLearning tool for small businesses in the food industry - from manufacturing to catering and service. Train your staff in basic food safety over 8 short and practical modules. Plus, you can track their progress across any device as they work towards a certificate of completion.

Scan the QR code to sign up for food safety training and get access to online resources

Learn more at safefoodbusiness.com

44|Retail News|October 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Soup

Soup-er stars

Cully and Sully are delighted that soup season is back around.

busting alternative to their soups. The Charming Chicken Risotto, Moreish Mushroom and Tempting Tomato Risotto are all naturally gluten free and less than 1% saturated fats. This range offers two vegan friendly SKUs that don’t lack in flavour or sustenance. Cully and Sully recommend serving them with a nice drizzle of olive oil, salt and pepper and parmesan cheese shavings. Sharing serving suggestions Cully and Ivan, who has been the company’s development chef from day dot, are sharing lots of delicious autumnal serving suggestions for the soups and risottos on their social media and website. The duo will even include some Halloween themed recipes and there will be giveaways in the lead up to the Soup-tacular holiday. Check out www.cullyandsully.com for more and follow them on www. instagram.com/cullyandsully. With winter around the corner, there are lots more exciting plans in the pipeline that you will see pop up on their limited edition soup lids. Doing good has always been part of Cully and Sully’s ethos and what better time of year is there to give back to cherished customers?

AS the number one soup brand in Ireland, Cully and Sully are delighted so many homes are serving up a warming bowl of Cully and Sully soup during the colder months. Cully and Sully soups are packed full of goodness, with fresh vegetables and fresh herbs. All of the soups are naturally gluten free, as no nasty thickeners are used; there are enough vegetables packed in to get a thick soup, the natural way. One soup that always proves popular with consumers during the autumn months is their velouté style Squashed Veggie Soup, which has all consumers’ seasonal favourites like butternut squash, carrots, sweet potato and some cumin to add a touch of warmth. Risotto range Cully and Sully’s expansion into a risotto range offers a delicious and hunger

Cully and Sully Squashed Veggie Soup is packed with all consumers’ autumnal favourites like butternut squash, carrots, sweet potato and some cumin to add a touch of warmth.

Less t h 1% SA an T FAT

ROCKING RISOTTO RANGE

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Origin Green

Bord Bia launches sustainability programme for Origin Green members Bord Bia has launched a series of in-person programmes for Origin Green members, supporting them to achieve critical sustainability targets.

BORD Bia has revealed a series of programmes for Origin Green Members aimed at enhancing sustainable business operations through greener packaging management. In advance of upcoming Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) requirements, Origin Green are holding the second iteration of the successful Pathways to Net Zero programme, which provides participants with the awareness and knowledge required to undertake the CSRD Climate Change reporting requirements and additional Origin Green emissions reporting. Sustainable business practices are fast becoming an increasingly important topic, with a focus on individual sector climate targets and emission reduction goals. To support businesses in achieving their targets, Origin Green has worked with Lean & Green Skillnet and 20Fifty Partners to develop a Pathways to Sustainable Packaging programme, aimed at supporting Origin Green Members to integrate sustainable packaging management practices in their everyday operations. Aligning emerging legislation with global

Pictured are (l-r): Jim O’Toole, CEO, Bord Bia; Maria Kelly, Head of Policy & Stakeholder Engagement, 20Fifty Partners; Paul Healy, CEO, Skillnet Ireland; Deirdre Ryan, Director of Sustainability and Quality Assurance, Bord Bia; Ken Stockil, Founder and CEO, 20Fifty Partners; Tracey Donnery, Director of Policy and Communications, Skillnet Ireland; and Martin Hofler, Senior Sustainability Manager, Bord Bia; at the launch of the Origin Green Academy earlier this year. best practice, the 8-10 week programme helps companies achieve their corporate sustainability goals.

Martin Hofler, Senior Sustainability Manager, Bord Bia: “Our Pathways to Sustainable Packaging programme focuses on key areas of everyday business operations that can be improved to protect the environment.”

Supporting sustainable practices “Origin Green aims to support businesses in the Irish food and drinks industry in their efforts to implement better sustainable practices to contribute positively to climate action and reduce environmental damage,” explained Martin Hofler, Senior Sustainability Manager, Bord Bia. “Our Pathways to Sustainable Packaging programme focuses on key areas of everyday business operations that can be improved to protect the environment. The programme will provide businesses with

critical support and information that they need to implement methods in relation to their sustainability goals. “We are also delighted to host the second iteration of the Pathways to Net Zero Programme, which will support Origin Green member companies with their approach to reporting corporate sustainability actions and progress efforts to achieve climate targets,” he continued. The Pathways to Net Zero Programme commenced on September 29, while the Sustainable Packaging programme begins on October 24. To learn more about the programmes, please visit www.leangreenskillnet.com/ origin-green-academy/.

Dairy from Ireland

where we work in harmony with nature Ireland’s lush green fields, fresh, clean air and plentiful rain create the perfect environment for rearing grass-fed cows. Together with an agile industry that responds speedily to changing production requirements, we’re able to ensure a consistent, secure supply of premium quality dairy produce. Our farmers and producers continue to work with care, commitment and respect for tradition.

As members of Origin Green – Ireland’s leading edge national food quality and sustainability program – their work is also measured and independently audited to drive continuous improvements in food safety, traceability, animal welfare and greenhouse gas emissions. To learn more about how we work in harmony with nature like nowhere else in the world, visit irishfoodanddrink.com

48|Retail News|October 2023|www.retailnews.ie

Waste Packaging Directive

Conal Scullion and Rory Campbell from Lewis Silkin’s Belfast office report on the proposed EU laws fighting back against waste packaging and what they mean for Irish retail businesses.

e h t n e i g g n a i v i L stic a l p

THE Environmental Protection Agency’s August 2023 news release was stark and foreboding. Ireland generated 1.2 million tonnes of packaging waste in 2021. The target for plastics recycling is 50% by 2025, but Ireland has only achieved 28%. This means that less than a third of the country’s plastic waste is recycled – the bulk of it is incinerated. And Ireland’s overall recycling rate is actually slowing down; against a target of 65% by 2025, the rate fell back from 62% in 2020 to 58% in 2021. Media and environmental campaigners were quick to fix on these alarming figures. “Europe’s worst wasters!” ran the headline, as statistics were published to show that, per head, the Irish binned 62kg of plastic against an EU average of 32kg. Retail businesses were quickly targeted: an Irish Sun investigation revealed that a “staggering 66%” of household waste came from supermarkets, with a “whopping 40%” from supermarket plastics. The Sick of Plastic campaign, led by activists Friends of the Earth Ireland and VOICE, lays the blame for the recycling failure squarely on retailers’ shoulders. Meanwhile, in the background,

dramatic European packaging law changes are being considered. If they’re passed, manufacturers and retail businesses will have significantly higher recyclability standards to meet for plastic goods. The Revised EU Waste Packaging Directive The EU published its Revision of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive at the end of 2022. This details a list of proposed changes to the existing EU packaging laws dating from 1994, representing the first major change to packaging regulations in over 25 years. If passed, the proposed law change will have a significant impact on Irish businesses, who will need to comply with the new regulations to continue selling their goods in the European market. Aims of regulation The need to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 requires substantial changes to packaging and waste management: the proposals set aggressive targets to reduce total wastage in a time where packaging waste is growing rather than declining. The proposals have three main targets: reducing the generation of packaging

waste, encouraging a cost-effective circular economy for packaging, and increasing the use of recycled content in packaging. Waste reduction targets The waste reduction targets are set at five-year intervals: •

•

By 2025: annual consumption of plastic bags reduced to 40 per person. 65% (by weight) of packaging waste to be recycled: specifically, 50% of plastic, 50% of aluminium, 70% of glass and 75% of paper and board. By 2030: full compliance with design for recycling criteria by all EU member states. Packaging waste per capita to be reduced by 5% from 2018 levels. Deposit return schemes for metal and single-use plastic beverage containers. By 2035: all member states should be recycling packaging at scale, with a sufficient and effective recyclable infrastructure. Per capita packaging waste to be reduced by 10%. By 2040: an overall 15% reduction in packaging waste across the EU and within each member state.

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Waste Packaging Directive Reusable packaging Reusable packaging targets include: • Beverage sellers ensuring that 20% of beverages are sold in reusable packaging with opportunities for refill by 2030, and 80% by 2040. • Ready-meal distributors selling 10% of products through refillable packaging by 2030, and 40% by 2040. • Non-food distributors ensuring 10% of packaging is reusable by 2030, 50% by 2040. Businesses offering consumers the opportunity to use refillable packaging must inform customers of the type of containers The EU published its Revision of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive at the end of they can use to refill, 2022. the hygiene standards they use for refilling, and the responsibility of the consumer for their own packages must be labelled by a digital the EU legislative process. Against the health and safety when using refillable marker, such as a QR code, which can background of the EPA’s damning report packaging. provide details on the system appropriate on national recycling habits, and the Single use packaging would be banned for reuse and provide tracking for the recycling rates and initiatives achieved by for certain products, including food and product. other countries, Irish manufacturers and drink consumed in the eatery it is ordered Packaging must be designed to make retailers need to consider the incoming in. Single use packaging for fruits and sure it is recyclable, with verification targets carefully. vegetables, and miniature products (including miniature shampoo bottles), will processes to demonstrate recyclability. also be prohibited. Reaction The packaging industry’s initial reactions Compostable packaging The changes focus on sticky labels on fruit are that the targets are unrealistic, and counter-productive in undermining and vegetables, and disposable plastic existing recycling schemes; the soft drinks bags. These must be compostable in industry body UNESDA went so far as to industrially controlled conditions within call the proposals an “existential threat two years after the changes come into to beverage industries”. Industry groups force. Disposable plastic bags can only have rushed to show that their members be introduced if it can be proven that already comply with many targets: the they consist entirely of biodegradable About the authors Cooperative of the German Mineral materials. For further information on this Water Companies claimed in 2022 that topic please contact Conal Scullion, it managed a reuse system running at a Labelling and design Paralegal, and Rory Campbell, Partner, 99.4% return rate. Finally, the proposed changes require at Lewis Silkin (Conal.Scullion@ However, these demonstrations of clear labelling to indicate how consumers lewissilkin.com and Rory.Campbell@ eco-compliance are often on a countryshould recycle waste. Most packaging lewissilkin.com). This article is for by-country basis – and therefore serve must explain the material composition general guidance and does not to spotlight those countries failing the of the container, as well as whether it is constitute legal advice. Legal advice standards which other countries appear reusable or single-use. Any packaging should be sought in any given set of capable of attaining. which can be used for refill must be circumstances. The proposed changes are not yet clearly identified, with the appropriate law, but are passing quickly through refillable substance detailed. All reusable

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Forecourt Focus: News Maxol announce €10 million contract with Bewley’s MAXOL have announced a five-year contract with one of Ireland’s leading coffee and tea companies, Bewley’s. Valued at €10 million, the contract includes 270 tonnes of coffee beans exclusively sourced for Maxol by Bewley’s, and the installation of new coffee machine equipment in 72 Maxol company-owned stores. The multi-million euro deal between two of Ireland’s leading, family-owned companies followed a competitive tender involving four companies. The partnership will also see the introduction of two new variants across an initial 20 Maxol stores: iced coffee and oat milk coffee. As part of the contract, 130 coffee machines will be replaced, units will be upgraded, new digital screens will be installed and, for the first time, selected Maxol stores will offer customers iced and oat milk coffees. Bewley’s supported the roll-out of Maxol’s proprietary Rosa coffee range in 2018 and last year, more than 3.5 million

cups of Rosa coffee were sold in the Republic of Ireland. A brew of freshly roasted Arabica beans, Rosa coffee is only sold in compostable or reusable cups across Maxol’s network of independent retailers in ROI. “Maxol is becoming as well known for its coffee as it is for its traditional fuel and retail convenience offering. Therefore, choosing a partner that could not only provide a fantastic quality product but was also highly innovative was critical to our decision to work with Bewley’s again,” explained Brian Donaldson, CEO of The Maxol Group. “The synergy between two Irish, family-owned companies working together in the retail convenience space was also important and, given the estimated 20 million cups of Rosa coffee we expect to sell over the next five years, we are confident we have secured a really strong partnership. “We’re excited about the prospect of bringing two new coffee variants to

our customers and we know from our customer insights that iced and oat coffees are in big demand,” he continued. “Our plan is to introduce these to around half of our network of company-owned stores within the next 12 months as part of our overall innovation and investment strategy.” Jason Doyle, MD of Bewley’s, added, “We are thrilled to have been given the opportunity to extend our partnership with Maxol. We look forward to building on our great collaboration to deliver an innovative, sustainable and quality experience for consumers with our renowned Fair Trade coffee and Rainforest Alliance certified tea, together with our unrivalled coffee equipment and servicing expertise. It is a great privilege for us to partner with a like-minded, family-owned Irish business, where superior quality is a non-negotiable element.” For more information visit www.maxol.ie or www.bewleys.com.

Brian Donaldson, CEO, Maxol Group, and Jason Doyle, Managing Director, Bewley's, pictured at the announcement of the €10 million deal.

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Forecourt Focus: News Circle K announce €100,000 giveaway for grassroots football clubs nationwide CIRCLE K, who are title sponsors of the FAI Club Mark Programme, have announced a €100,000 giveaway to grassroots football clubs across the Republic of Ireland. As title sponsor of the FAI Club Mark Programme, an award based on best practice in the governance, management and administration of a football club, Circle K are giving customers a chance to nominate their local grassroots club to win one of eight prizes ranging from €10,000 to €30,000. Nominations opened on October 4 and the closing date for entries is December 5, 2023. For a club to be eligible, they must be registered for the FAI Club Mark Programme, which aims to provide clubs with a road map to good governance, reward clubs for achieving and maintaining high standards, recognise clubs for their commitment and achievements and help grow football in communities across the country. To enter the competition, customers must have downloaded the Circle K app and registered for Play or Park, Circle K’s loyalty game. Then they simply select their chosen football club in the FAI portal within the app and upload their Circle K receipt to generate a draw entry for the

club. One draw entry will be generated per receipt uploaded. The more entries a club gets, the higher their chances of winning will be. Each customer who entered their club from October 4-9 was entered into a draw to win two tickets to the Republic of Ireland’s men’s European Championship qualifier against Greece on October 13. “At Circle K we understand the crucial role that grassroots football clubs play in communities right across Ireland, and we’re proud of our partnership with the FAI that aims to support football at grassroots and national level,” noted Gordon Lawlor, Managing Director of Circle K Ireland. “We’re excited to launch this giveaway, which will hopefully have a positive impact for the winning clubs nationwide, and we encourage all our customers to get involved and give their local clubs the best possible chance of winning.” Paul Dixon, Retail Director of Circle K Ireland, added, “It’s really simple for customers to get involved at any of our Circle K outlets nationwide. Whether you’ve filled up the car or simply dropped in for one of our delicious chicken rolls, your receipt is eligible and you could be the reason your local club wins big.”

FAI Grassroots Director, Ger McDermott said: “We’re delighted to have a partner in Circle K who are committed to helping grow grassroots football and understand the important presence of the game at community and local level across the country. Grassroots clubs are the cornerstone of local communities and by having a title sponsor of the FAI Club Mark, this is only going to enhance the programme and help to develop our clubs even further.” FAI Marketing and Communications Director, Louise Cassidy said: "We’re really looking forward to launching the Circle K Club Mark Grassroots Giveaway Campaign. This digitally led campaign is so simple for both Circle K customers and Club Mark clubs to get involved with and we see it having real benefit to grassroots football across the country. Circle K have been fantastic title partners of Club Mark and we are delighted with the awareness and investment they are bringing to the programme through this initiative.” To find out more on how to nominate your local club, please visit www.circlek. ie/fai-partnership or head over to Circle K Ireland on Facebook and @circlekireland on Instagram for updates.

Lucan FC players, from left, Mason Yourell, Meskerem Fitzgerald, Haahash Lemuel, Ollie Lambe, Blake Yourell, Katie May, Sanjay Kalalai Selevan, Chloe O'Connor and Doireann Macken, with (l-r): FAI Club Development Programme Coordinator Barry McGann; Paul Dixon, Senior Director, Retail Sales and Operations, Circle K; Eadaoin Keane, Head of Marketing, Circle K; Brandon Turton, FAI Grassroots Leadership Team; Robbie DeCourcy, FAI Development Officer for South Dublin; and Matthew McCann, FAI Development Officer for South Dublin.

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What’s New HEINZ LAUNCH PASTA SAUCE RANGE FOR all the Irish pasta lovers out there, Heinz have finally extended their tomato expertise by announcing their new, award-winning Pasta Sauce varieties, available in seven delicious, high-quality, ready-to-use recipes. Made it Italy and using the same great tasting, quality tomatoes that Heinz lovers have come to expect, the new Heinz Pasta Sauce range includes: Tomato Sauce for Bolognese (vegan); Sundried Cherry Tomato & Basil (vegan); Tomato & Chilli (vegan); Tomato, Mushroom & Bell Pepper (vegan); Tomato & Lentil Ragu (vegan); Mediterranean Veggies & Chunky Tomatoes (vegan); and Tomato, Grana Padano & Mascarpone (not suitable for vegans or vegetarians). Straight from the fields of Italy to the jars, each pasta sauce has been made using Heinz’s sun-ripened tomatoes, with 100% natural ingredients and absolutely no added sugar, providing one of consumers’ five-a-day. The new Heinz Pasta Sauces range is available now across Tesco, Dunnes and SuperValu stores throughout Ireland, with an RRP of €2.99 for 350g jars and €3.79 for 500g jars.

KERRYGOLD LAUNCH NEW GLOBAL ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN KERRYGOLD have unveiled a major new global multi-channel advertising campaign that is set to reach over 150 million consumers globally in the coming 12 months. The campaign, May Your Table Always Be Full, aims to illustrate the power of reconnecting with friends and family at mealtimes amid the fast-paced pressures of everyday modern life. “May Your table Always Be Full is a timeless, powerful brand adage that we believe everyone can relate to,” noted Brian Cleere, Global Creative Director, Kerrygold. “This platform connects with people by reminding them of how good the little moments in life can be when you take the time to be present, cook meals with one another, and even just sit down at a table enjoy a meal, connecting with friends and family.”

NORDIC SPIRIT RELAUNCH WATERMELON STRONG THOUGHT the taste of summer was gone? Nordic Spirit Watermelon Strong is back again for a limited time only! Experience the refreshing taste of the tropics while available. Nordic Spirit are 100% tobacco-free nicotine pouches; the more convenient and discreet way to enjoy nicotine with no smoke or vapour. They can be used anytime, anywhere. So stock up now to discover the unseen with Nordic Spirit Watermelon Strong, available for a limited time only! 18+. This product contains nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive substance.

BONNE MAMAN LAUNCH PEANUT SPREAD BONNE Maman, the beloved French brand with the gingham lid that is loved globally and across Ireland for its range of delicious fruit conserves, caramels and chocolate spreads, has created a brand new recipe: a deliciously creamy peanut spread. This is Bonne Maman’s first Peanut Spread - giving fans a new way to enjoy the kitchen staple with an indulgent twist from the French experts. The delectable Bonne Maman Peanut Spread is available in two incredible textures: a creamy version for those who prefer smooth sweetness or with chunky peanut pieces for those who prefer a crunchier texture. The spreads are palm-oil free and are now available in 325g jars.

GRENADE OREO WHITE LAUNCHES NEW Grenade Oreo White is a white chocolate twist on the groundbreaking Grenade Oreo bar. It’s all of the things consumers know and love about Grenade Oreo: a protein dough base loaded with authentic Oreo cocoa and a thick crème layer flavoured with genuine Oreo vanilla, topped off with real Oreo pieces, with an extra indulgent twist, an insanely smooth layer of white chocolate. If that wasn’t enough, Grenade Oreo White is packed with more than 20g of protein and less than 2g of sugar, so consumers can satisfy their sweet tooth and their fitness app.

It’s your Call… You

At the IGBF we assist the families of over 300 of your colleagues every month. These families are more unfortunate than ourselves and without your support such assistance would not be possible... But we still need your help to continue making the difference.

To Donate: ww.igbf. For Assistance: ww.igbf.ie/help/our_help.html For Queries: info@igbf.ie

Registered Charity No: 6577 Registered Friendly Society No: 1775

NEW

Nordic Spirit contains nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive substance.

LIMITED EDITION WATERMELON STRONG

BACK STRONGER NOW AVAILABLE IN STRONG

100% TOBACCO FREE, NICOTINE POUCHES For more information go to:

WWW.NORDICSPIRIT.IE

THAN EVER