Retail News April 2009

April 2009

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Be a part of the MACE success story – it all adds up to more profit for you.

Tempted? Call Seumas Robinson on 086 1744520 or email: srobinson@mace.ie

April09Contents

■ inside view

Care In The Community What does your store offer consumers that your competitors’ don’t? In the current economic climate, that question is perhaps more important than any other in terms of enticing consumers to choose your shop as a ‘destination store’. Very often, Irish stores are far more than merely places to shop and play an important role in the greater community. With the help of some of the country’s leading symbol groups, RETAIL NEWS investigates how this sense of community can help a local shop to become a vital cog in its neighbourhood (Page 16).

Elsewhere, our chief news reporter Pavel Barter examines the potential impact of the Department of Agriculture’s effective ban on the supply of food waste material to animal feed (Page 4). Such a move effectively encourages supermarkets to dispose of their food surplus waste in landfill, while the Department of the Environment is simultaneously seeking to reduce the amount of product ending up in landfill.

This month’s RETAIL NEWS Interview sees recently appointed MACE Managing Director Willie O’Byrne in the hot-seat, discussing the impact of the economic downturn on the grocery trade and what can be done to address the problem of Irish consumers looking north for their shopping needs (Page 18). In a wide-ranging interview, O’Byrne discusses the big issues facing the FMCG market today and highlights MACE’s ambitious plans for future growth.

We also look at one of the most important revenue-generating areas of your store, the deli, focusing on the areas of safe food handling (Page 29), how new technology is keeping the Gala group ahead of the pack (Page 33) and advice on the best way to deal with new Fats, Oils and Greases legislation (Page 34).

“Celebrating 50 Kathleen Belton, Editorial & Marketing Director.

years serving the Irish grocery trade.”

Managing Director: Fergus Farrell Editorial & Marketing Director: Kathleen Belton, email: kathleenbelton@tarapublishingco.com Editor: John Walshe

johnwalshe@tarapublishingco.com

Chief News Reporter: Pavel Barter

Wine Correspondent: Jean Smullen

Advertising Manager: Aaron Stewart

Advertising Executive: David Kelly

T A R A Published by: Tara Publishing Co. Ltd., Poolbeg House, 1/2 Poolbeg Street, Dublin 2.

Tel: (01) 2413095. Fax: (01) 2413010.

Web: www.retailnews.ie Email: retailnews@tarapublishingco.com Subscription to Retail News: €110 plus VAT Email: tracy@tarapublishingco.com Origination by: Rooney Media Graphics

Printed by: Graham & Heslip

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April09Contents

Contents April 2009

News 4 Retail Food Waste Comes Under the Microscope.

inaugural winner of the Daybreak Store of the Year competition.

5 Minister Amends Tobacco Legislation; Wine Sales Remain Consistent.

Destination Shopping 16 Highlighting the fact

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that your store is an active and important part of the community it serves could make a huge difference in ensuring your status as a ‘destination store’.

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The Retail News Interview 18 Willie O’Byrne, the 6 RGDATA Slams Retail Wage Increase; 2008 A Dire Year for Drinks.

7 Trade Unions Agree Superquinn Deal; ADM Londis Annual Results; Kerry Group’s Breeo Acquisition on Hold Again.

recently appointed MACE Managing Director, on Ireland’s changing retail grocery landscape, the evolution of the value-conscious consumer and his ambitious plans for the MACE group.

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8 No Hike for Alcohol in

Shop Profile 38 Moriarty’s SuperValu, Balbriggan, has been providing choice and value to its local customer base since 1991, growing with the community it serves.

On The Vine 56 Jean Smullen examines the performance of Chilean wines in Ireland, which are

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Emergency Budget; Repak Keeps Fees Static.

Daybreak Store of the Year 14 Ciaran Ferriter’s

Deli 29 Your deli is one of the

Daybreak store in Roundfort, Co. Mayo, is the

most valuable areas in your store. Ensure it stays that

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way with our guide to food handling for hot and cold deli. We also look at how new technology and new legislation is changing the face of the modern deli.

considered sociable and good value for money by Irish consumers.

Shelf Life 64 All the latest news and gossip from the trade.

Regulars 10 Industry News 13 Drinks News Sectoral Reports 22 Ice Cream 40 Snack Foods 50 Yellow Fats 54 Oils 58 Fresh Dairy Products 60 Personal Care 3

April09News

Retail Food Waste Comes Under the Microscope REPRESENTATIVES from Ireland's major supermarkets recently met with the Department of Agriculture to discuss the future of retail surplus food. According to sources, the Department have effectively banned the supply of food waste material to animal feed, although documents have yet to be drawn up, or legislation put in place, ratifying the decision.

When asked about their considerations in banning supermarket surplus food, the Department told RETAIL NEWS: “Under Feed Hygiene Regulations, suppliers of animal feed ingredients must be registered as Feed Business Operators with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (DAFF). DAFF are currently examining proposed legislation being introduced by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government on disposal of waste food in the context of legislation governing animal feed.”

However, the ban has continued regardless, even though there is no legislation in place to provide for it, other than where someone handling this material is deemed to have broken EU food hygiene regulations. Under normal circumstances, such decisions are handled on a case-by-case basis, rather than issuing a blanket ban.

Furthermore, sources tell RETAIL NEWS that while the Department of Agriculture are drafting legislation to introduce a total ban, they have not thought through the options for supermarket surplus food. The Department of Environment, for example, are ploughing

Mairead McGuinness, MEP.

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Is Irish supermarket surplus food destined for landfill? The Department of Agriculture seems to suggest so, while their colleagues at the Department of the Environment are proposing legislation to prohibit such eventualities.

a different furrow, trying to reduce the amount of product ending up in landfill.

“Ireland must meet challenging targets under the EU Landfill Directive for the diversion of biodegradable municipal waste from landfill,” Department of Environment spokesperson Vincent Potter told RETAIL NEWS. “Meeting this obligation will entail doubling the existing level of diversion from landfill by 2010 and further increases in diversion in subsequent years. Following extensive consultation, the National Strategy on Biodegradable Waste was published in April 2006 and is aimed at diverting 80% of biodegradable municipal waste from landfill through segregated collection and the generation of compost.”

Certainly, supermarket food surplus converted to animal feed fits the Department of Environment's criteria for cutting down landfill, and levy charges makes landfill a costlier affair for retail. There are not enough composting facilities in the country to handle supermarket food waste; furthermore, composters can not handle packaged material, so it would need to be unpacked prior to compost. There is also the option of rendering: incineration, effectively.

Mairead McGuinness, MEP, says the lack of options could potentially lead to the growth of an illegal market in recycling or disposal. “You have to be conscious that if you don't have a proper system in place to handle this material, then

things could go horribly wrong,” she told RETAIL NEWS. From McGuinness' perspective, the actions of the Department of Agriculture have no foundation at European level, where delegates in the European parliament are revising Animal By-Products legislation: “There is no proposal in this revision to ban the use of former foodstuffs originating from supermarkets.

Because this material must meet all the statutory requirements of food hygiene, traceability, BSE legislation, there is no reason to ban it completely.”

One source claimed that the ban was a knee-jerk response to last year's pigmeat crisis, calling it a “complete overreaction”. When faced with the question, the Department spokesperson denied the claim, saying, “The pig crisis was caused by contaminated oil being used in a drying operation. This issue is unrelated.”

However, Mairead McGuinness said that in light of the pig meat contamination, “it was inevitable and right that there would be more rigour involved in the regulation of the entire animal feed chain. I think what is required is an entire sectoral look, consulting with all the stakeholders. That is beginning to happen.”

Ultimately, a ban on surplus food going to animal feed threatens retailers with added costs. With limited solutions as to where the food might actually go, the situation appears to demand more thought from the government.

April09News

Minister Amends Tobacco Legislation THE face of tobacco retailing looks set to change irrevocably on July 1, when new regulations are introduced banning all tobacco advertising and product display from retail premises. The regulation bans all advertising, including change mats on counters and backdrops, introduces a retail register and requires retailers to introduce a closed container or dispenser.

However, Mary Wallace TD, Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, has amended existing tobacco legislation in response to concerns raised by stakeholders about the new laws.

The main changes proposed are to: - Allow judicial discretion on the period of time that a person who is convicted of an offence under the Acts is removed from the retail register (this register will be established and maintained by the Office of Tobacco Control). Removal from the register will now be for a period not exceeding 90 days, whilst still maintaining 90 days as the maximum penalty.

- Permit airport duty free outlets to display a pictorial list of the tobacco products sold in their outlets until 2013 (in line with proposed legislation for UK airports). These pictorial lists will consist of visual images of packets of the tobacco products sold by the airport duty free outlets.

- Allow specialist tobacco retailers the choice of selling either tobacco prod-

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ucts and tobacco related products only, or in addition to tobacco products, non-tobacco related products whilst prohibiting the sale of cigarettes. As the legislation stands, they can only sell tobacco products and tobacco related products.

Allow the Minister to make regulations to introduce combined text and photo warnings on tobacco products as recommended by the European Commission.

The upcoming display ban, however, seems set to come into force on July 1, despite concerns by retailers about the timing. Scotland has recently deferred the introduction of a tobacco display ban until 2013, following a similar decision in New Zealand, while following the implementation of a similar ban in eight of Canada’s 10 states, youth smoking rates have remained flat at 15%, while independent store closures are up (8.6% of independent stores have closed in Ontario since the ban was introduced on May 31, 2008) and illegal cigarette sales now account for 33% of the market: in Ireland, illegal tobacco sales are estimated to make up 25% of the market.

The Irish ban comes at a time of financial hardship for retailers: independent outlets, not supported by tobacco companies, for example, will have to foot the bill for a closed container. Martin Mulligan, District President of the

National Federation of RETAIL NEWS agents (NFRN), is calling on the Minister to postpone the implementation of the ban, as its implementation could mark a severe turning point in the livelihoods of most retailers, since tobacco accounts for “25-30% of most trade” He describes the new ‘closed container system’ as “not a good way of retailing cigarettes. I honestly don't believe for one minute that the sight of cigarettes makes anybody start smoking.”

According to Mulligan, the display ban not only comes with associated costs, but also ignores the real issue: the scourge of black market cigarette sales across Ireland. “In my own home town of Athlone, there are people going door-to-door, selling cigarettes not by the packet, but by the carton,” he notes. “This is where I would see a big problem of people beginning to smoke, because rather than someone buying 20 cigarettes, they're now getting as many as 400 together, and they're buying them for as much as €25 a carton.”

Wine Sales Remain Consistent DESPITE the economic gloom, wine sales in Ireland have remained consistent. However, consumers appear to be seeking cheaper wines, often in bulk packages. The situation has meant that independent Irish off-licenses are struggling to compete with multiples and cross-border sales, NOffLA Chairman Jim McCabe told RETAIL NEWS. How, then, might off-licenses capitalise on the continuing demand for wine?

“We're against bulk purchases, but [off-licenses] have to be competitive, for example, on six-pack offers,” said McCabe. “Also, on branded products, you have to be fighting close to product prices in the multiples. Then there is

an opportunity to try and sell wines that maybe aren't price sensitive, using their quality as a selling point. But it's definitely difficult because the likes of Lidl and Aldi are selling a six-pack of wine for less than €28. That sort of

Jim McCabe, NOffLA Chairman.

price range is very hard to compete with.”

In recent times, the government have mooted a ban on promotional deals and bulk purchasing, which would undoubtedly benefit independent off-licenses. Also, McCabe is confident that wine's fixture on the Irish retail landscape is here to stay.

“Sales are starting to flatten out, but I don't see them decreasing. The culture change and socio-economic change has led people to enjoy a glass of wine with their food or in the evening. I think going forward, you have to convey to people that a €5.99 bottle of Chablis might be cheap, but it is not necessarily going to be particularly good wine.”

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April09News

RGDATA Slams Retail Wage Increase RGDATA has condemned a Labour Court decision to force retailers to pay a 2.5% increase in the hourly wage rates for staff with effect from April 24, 2009, while the JLC will meet in May to address a further 2.5% increase in October. These increases are not voluntary and are enforced by an Employment Regulation Order. Any retailer who pays less than the JLC fixed rate can be prosecuted by the National Employment Rights Authority and fined or imprisoned.

“It is outrageous that the State is allowed to defer paying increases to its own employees and seek pay cuts, but it

RGDATA Director General Tara Buckley.

supports the JLC, an outdated mechanism from the 1940s that prevents, with threat of prosecution, small family businesses from managing costs and preserving employment. It is sheer lunacy that will see more people on the dole at a time when we need to keep jobs,” said RGDATA Director General Tara Buckley, who described the JLC as “relics from a bygone age” and called for their abolishment.

RGDATA has urged Tanaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment Mary Coughlan TD to take immediate political action to address the issue and save jobs.

2008 a Dire Year for Drinks THE Chairman of the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI), Kieran Tobin, has stated that the weak local economy and the increase in cross-border sales have combined to make 2008 the worstperforming year for the Drinks Industry in Ireland in 25 years.

Speaking at the publication of DIGI’s ‘Drinks Market Performance 2008’, Tobin said that if current trends continue, 2009 will be even worse, with 10% of off-license sales migrating to Northern Ireland with the loss to the State of over €100m in tax revenues, and a threat to 10% of the people employed across all sectors of the drinks industry in this country.

The report’s author, DCU economist Anthony Foley, added, “The drinks market performance in 2008 deteriorated as the year progressed, with performance in the second half of the year far worse than in the first six months. The volume of alcohol consumption declined by 5.9% in 2008 compared to an increase of 2.5% in 2007. In the first half of the year, the decline, compared to 2007, was 3.9%, but in the second half this rose to 7.2%.”

Per adult consumption decreased by 7.3% in 2008, while per capita consumption went down by 7.7%. These rates are equal to the decline in consumption that was recorded in the entire seven year period between 2001 and 2007. As a result, average con6

sumption levels are back to 1997/98 levels.

All four alcohol drinks categories suffered volume declines, according to Foley: cider was down 11%, spirits 7.7%, beer 5%, and wine 4.1%. As a result, the value of the alcohol market overall fell by 2.5% to €6.9 billion in 2008.

“On the basis of these figures, up to

9,000 jobs will be lost in all sectors of the drinks industry in 2009,” Kieran Tobin concluded. “This will come on top of those losses that have already been sustained in the past year, meaning that the numbers employed in the sector will have fallen from 100,000 to approximately 80,000 in just over two years.”

Pictured at the launch of the new DIGI report are (l-r): Donall O’Keeffe, Secretary of DIGI and Licenced Vintners Association Chairman; Kieran Tobin, DIGI Chairman; and Anthony Foley, DCU economist and report author.

April09News

Trade Unions Agree Superquinn Deal TRADE unions, Mandate, SIPTU and BFAWU, have reached a deal with Superquinn, providing workers with redundancy rights and shares in the supermarket giant. The deal includes a voluntary redundancy package, giving 394 workers four weeks wages for every year they spent with the company. A share scheme offers Superquinn workers 1.5% of the retail business. Furthermore, should Superquinn exceed their budgeted net profit, a third of all additional profit will be shared amongst Superquinn employees. Mandate say the deal, The Programme for Competitiveness and Change 2009/2010, is innovative and progressive.

“A lot of credit for this deal should go to the workers in Superquinn, who have recognised that the company is going through challenging times.

They have behaved in a very mature and responsible manner by balloting for acceptance of the Programme for Competitiveness and Change,” said Gerry Light, Mandate Assistant General Secretary.

“This deal shows how trade unions, employers and workers can, through partnership and responsible actions, reach acceptable and meaningful outcomes for all interested parties. The unique arrangement reached between Superquinn and the group of unions should be seen as a potential blueprint by any company suffering similar difficulties in the current economic environment.”

In an unusual move in the retail sector, Mandate and Superquinn have agreed to a banded hour’s contract, which will ensure some level of certainty of earnings for workers.

“Under previous arrangements, workers could be scheduled to work anything between 18 and 39 hours in a week,” noted Light. “With the new banded hour contract, workers will either work in an 18-25 hour contract or a 25-39 hour contract.

This gives some stability of earnings, which is a major achievement for staff in the Irish retail sector, where workers’ hours are being cut across the board.”

ADM Londis Annual Results

Leo McCauley, Chairman ADM Londis plc and Stephen O’Riordan, CEO ADM Londis plc.

ADM Londis plc has reported a resilient operating performance in its annual results for the year ended December 31, 2008. Profit before tax is reported at €4.1m, on a wholesale turnover of €341m and Group Retailer sales of €707m. These results represent a landmark for ADM Londis shareholders, with the first dividend being recommended since the Group’s conversion to plc status in 2004.

Stripping out €2m of exceptional charges, including a restructuring charge of €0.5m and a prudent increase of €1.5m in the Group’s bad debt provision, due to the severe credit squeeze, adjusted pre tax profits were in line with 2007, reflecting a

resilient operating performance.

“2008 was a watershed for Irish businesses,” noted Stephen O’Riordan, Chief Executive, ADM Londis plc. “A contracting economy, weak consumer sentiment and a drying up of credit culminated in a very challenging year for an already competitive market.

Nevertheless, ADM Londis plc returned resilient results with Group retailer sales of €707m and operating profits of €4.1m incorporating prudent provisions by the Group.

Notwithstanding these charges, the underlying profitability of the business remains strong and with its low debt profile, the Group remains well positioned within the marketplace.”

Kerry Group’s Breeo Acquisition On Hold Again THERE has been another twist in the ongoing dispute over Kerry Foods’ proposed acquisition of Breeo Foods, following the news that the Competition Authority of Ireland has served Notice of Appeal against the judgement of the High Court, who had previously annulled the Competition Authority’s prohibition of the buy-out. According to

a statement, Kerry is determined to defend its position and will resist this appeal in the Supreme Court. It had seemed that the controversial acquisition was to go ahead, following the High Court’s decision, but the Competition Authority move suggests that this longrunning saga will go all the way to the Supreme Court.

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April09News

No Hike for Alcohol in Emergency Budget ALTHOUGH tax on cigarettes rose by 25c per packet, alcohol went unscathed in Ireland's recent emergency budget. The decision not to hike prices on beer, wine, and spirits, was welcomed by Kieran Tobin, Chairman of the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI).

“DIGI welcomes the Government decision not to increase excise taxes on alcohol,” he said. “Over recent weeks, DIGI consistently highlighted that falling consumption and the major increase in cross-border shopping are having a severe impact on our industry, as acknowledged by the Minister for Finance in his Budget speech... We can now look forward to working with the Government to support our industry and the 90,000 jobs it sustains, as well as the State and export revenues we generate.”

The budget also saw no duty hike on petrol, although diesel was increased by 5c per litre. Indeed, Minister for Finance, Brian Lenihan TD focused mainly on doubling income-tax levies, cutting spending, and creating a toxic-asset company to house banks' bad debts. “I want to assure the Irish people that we have the capacity, and your government has the will, to bring us out of this period of severe economic distress,” said Lenihan. “We have

Repak Keeps Fees Static REPAK will not be hiking its fees in 2009, in an effort to allay financial concerns amongst their customers.

Repak told RETAIL NEWS: “Due to the difficult trading environment of our members, Repak have agreed to a moratorium on any fee increase for 2009. All invoices for first half 2009 fees have already been invoiced at 2008 levels. Also, all scheduled members (flat annual fees) have been invoiced for 2009 at the same rate as 2008. This is despite projected cost increases of supporting growing domestic/household recycling rates in 2009.”

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faced adversity in the past and we have prevailed.”

Reacting to the budget, Retail Excellence Ireland claimed that the Government’s failure to decrease the VAT rate means that hundreds more retailers will go out of business and thousands more jobs will be lost in Ireland’s largest employment industry this year.

Commenting on the budget announcement, Chief Executive Officer of Retail Excellence Ireland, David Fitzsimons, said, “By not reducing the rate of VAT and employer PRSI, the Government has missed the opportunity to improve the state of the Irish retail industry for both businesses and consumers. A 6.5% decrease in VAT, together with intervention in rent and wage cost, would have seen consumer prices drop by nearly 20%, which in turn would have stimulated spending in Ireland, reduced the cross border price difference, improved national competitiveness and maintained employment within Ireland’s largest employment industry.”

He also described employer PRSI as another prohibitive cost to doing business in Ireland. “Coupled with the fact that

Ireland has the second highest minimum wage costs in Europe, employer PRSI acts as another major barrier to employment and by reducing employer PRSI, the Government could have promoted job creation in the sector.

“As a result of inaction in yesterday’s budget, the plight of the retail industry continues. The VAT differential between Ireland and the UK means we are likely to see a further €1 billion in Irish retail sales shift to the Northern Ireland economy this year. This translates to a further 20,000 job losses in the retail industry in 2009 and going on Minister Lenihan’s own calculations, those job losses will amount to an additional €420m burden to the Irish taxpayer per year,” said Fitzsimons.

OBITUARY – MATT MELIA It was with great sadness that RETAIL NEWS learned of the death of Matt Melia, the man responsible for the stewardship of the MACE brand in Ireland from a fledgling organisation into one of the biggest symbol groups in the country.

Matt was known as “Mister MACE” to many throughout the country for his stalwart work on behalf of the brand which he nurtured, and is remembered fondly by his many friends in the grocery sector.

Terence Mangan, former MD of Mangan’s Wholesale, remembers Matt as “a very hard worker. He was tough but honest”, while Michael Campbell,

former RGDATA Chairman describes Matt as “one of the architects of the MACE group in most of Ireland”.

“Time and distance meant nothing to Matt,” continues Campbell. “He would drive 150 miles at the drop of a hat if it meant he could help a retailer or get a new retailer. He was reliable, resourceful, knowledgeable and good company and he was very much of a breed that’s gone now. Matt did very well in extremely difficult times. He was an absolute professional in everything that he did.”

RETAIL NEWS would like to extend our sympathy to Matt’s wife Peggy and his four sons and two daughters.

Winston Welcome to True Quality

April09Industry News

Bernard’s Boxing Clever BERNARD Dunne’s dramatic WBA Super Bantamweight title win at The O2 in Dublin last month on the Hunky Dorys World Title Fight capped a sensational day for Irish sport, with the country’s rugby players winning a Six Nations Grand Slam for the first time in 61 years. “I always believed in myself and thought that I could bring a world title back to Dublin and thankfully I have,” noted the new World Champion. “Brian did great to deliver a world title fight in Dublin and the backing of Hunky Dorys proved crucial in getting it here. Having home advantage for such a big fight was a real boost and when I was making my entrance, I was able to take in the atmosphere and it was sensational. I have to thank every single person who was at The O2 because trust me, having over 9,000 people cheering me on really was a massive help and that support is something I’ll never forget.”

Dunne feels that it was his tough training regime that gave him the edge on the night: “I was super fit going into the fight and I think all the hard work I had done in training paid off because I was able to bounce back from that fifth round and to be honest, I never really looked back in the fight after

that. I know a lot of people didn’t think I could win the fight but my team knew going in that we had a great chance because I had put in the hard work.

“The pressure was off me because not too many people gave me a chance and being the underdog suited me,” he admits. “My attitude throughout was, ‘OK, lets give It a real go and see what happens’. Seeing the Irish rugby team win earlier in the day and the manner in which they won was great and I was overjoyed for them. It gave me a real lift going into the fight.”

New Food Companies to Supply Superquinn TEN small or emerging food processing companies were recently presented with their certificates for successfully completing the Enterprise Ireland and Bord Bia sponsored Superquinn Supplier Development Programme. Already, as a result of participating on the programme, four of the companies - Country Cooking of Leitrim, Bombay Pantry of Wicklow, Delicious Gourmet Food of Cork and Gs Gourmet Jam of Laois - have achieved product listings with Superquinn, while it is anticipated ongoing discussions may result in other participating companies being successful in the near future. The Supplier Development Programme, developed by Enterprise Ireland in partnership with Superquinn, and assisted by Bord Bia, is designed to support the food processing companies achieve the service standards, product quality and innovation necessary to achieve product listings from retail multiples such as Superquinn.

Centra Rugby Summer Camps AS Rugby fever grips the nation in the aftermath of Ireland's historic RBS Six Nations Grand Slam, one of its heroes, Luke Fitzgerald took time from his well-earned break to launch the Centra Rugby Summer Camps which take place this summer. Grand Slam winner Luke lined out to give a sneak preview of some tips that can be learned at the camps this summer, including how to eat well and ensure players fuel their bodies with the right foods. Camps will take place in a range of venues throughout Leinster, Munster and Connacht in June, July and August, giving budding rugby stars a week long, action-packed and fun rugby experience. Luke Fitzgerald is pictured with young rugby fans, Sam Kelly, aged 7, Victoria Nolan, aged 9, and Sean Og Barnes, aged 9.

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April09Industry News

Fyffes On the Ball FYFFES have launched an exciting nationwide on-pack promotion in association with the National Irish Bank FAI Summer Soccer Schools. Since March 23, every bag of Freddy Fyffes bananas contains a promotional insert that gives customers the chance to win a number of fantastic instant win prizes, including the Nintendo Wii, or collect six tokens to receive a guaranteed 10% off a place at one of the National Irish Bank FAI Summer Soccer Schools. This 12-week promotion provides a launch platform for the revamped Freddy Fyffes product, which is a bagged banana product targeted at children. Pictured are (l-r): Barry Gleeson, National Coordinator, FAI Summer Soccer Schools Programme; Matthew Canacott; Robyn Molloy; Eoin Heary, Bohemians FC; Jaime Molloy; Matthew Crewe; Emma Crewe, Fyffes Brand Manager; and Freddy Fyffes.

Barry Group Wins Gold BARRY Group was awarded a Gold Excellence Through People award by Minister for Labour Affairs Billy Kelleher TD. The award, made at Barry Group headquarters in Mallow, was based on a rigorous assessment conducted by FÁS assessors. FÁS Excellence Through People awards are based on eight core areas focusing on business planning, employee career development and employee well-being. FÁS assessors also interview staff from each company to ensure that companies are living up to their promises. Pictured at the presentation are Jim Barry Senior; Jim Barry, MD, Barry Group; Minister for Labour Affairs, Billy Kelleher TD; and Donal Kerr, Regional Director FÁS.

Swords Pavilions Teams Up with Irish Autism Action SWORDS Pavilions, one of Dublin’s premier retail destinations, has announced that it is to team up with Irish Autism Action as its adopted charity for 2009 in an attempt to raise much-needed funds for the organisation whose Patron is Boyzone star, Keith Duffy. To celebrate the launch, a Harley Davidson ‘Ultra Classic Electra Glide’, which will feature artwork by renowned Irish artist Rasher, will be auctioned to raise funds for Irish Autism Action and can be seen at various locations around the country over the coming weeks. Keith Duffy is pictured at the launch with Ian Hunter, Centre Director, Swords Pavilions, and model, Ruth O’Neill.

NSAI Seminar Success PICTURED at the ‘Innovation and Standards, Supporting Enterprise’ seminar held by the National Standards Authority of Ireland are speakers Dr. Chris Horn, cofounder of Iona Technologies; Minister for Trade and Commerce, John McGuinness TD; and Maurice Buckley, Chief Executive, NSAI. The seminar launched NSAI’s new ‘Guide to Good Practice in Innovation’, a handbook to help enterprises of all sizes develop innovative solutions. NSAI is calling on all Irish firms to take a fresh look at freely available resources that can help their businesses become innovative, as many Irish companies are unaware of the enormous benefits offered through enterprise development agencies and international standards working groups.

Topaz Facilitates Volvo Ocean Race TOPAZ has agreed to the decommissioning of its storage tanks in Galway Harbour ahead of the Volvo Ocean Race’s visit to the city in May. The site on which the tanks are located is the preferred location for the ‘Event Village’ during the Galway leg of the Volvo Ocean Race. Topaz said the 10 tanks, which are located on the quayside in the heart of Galway City, are expected to be taken down by the end of April. Topaz has agreed to relocate its storage facilities to a new state-ofthe-art storage terminal at the Galway Harbour Enterprise Park - Enwest.

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April09Industry News

Walkers Sensations TV Now Awards THE Walkers Sensations TV Now Awards are back! Ireland’s television awards, which honour the best shows and stars on Irish TV returned to Dublin’s Mansion House on Saturday, April 18. A host of stars from Irish TV and the most popular British soaps came together for a glittering, black tie ceremony, where the winners of the 17 different categories were announced, all but two of which were voted for by the people that really matter - the Irish public. Pictured at the launch are Sinead Desmond, Ireland AM; Lorraine Keane, Exposé; Donna Byrne, Trade Marketing Executive for Walkers; TV personality Lucy Kennedy; and model Yomiko.

Gift Voucher Shop Wins Top Award PICTURED at the 2008 Ulster Bank Business Achievers Awards Gala Dinner are: Robert Gallagher, Chief Executive, Ulster Bank Corporate Markets; Michael Dawson, Founder, The Gift Voucher Shop; Mary Coughlan TD, Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment; Jock Jordan, Sales Director, The Gift Voucher Shop; Aoife Davey, Marketing Manager, The Gift Voucher Shop, and John Mahon, Group Operations Manager, The Gift Voucher Shop. The Gift Voucher Shop, providers of gift vouchers and gift cards on behalf of hundreds of retailers, has won the “Business Going International Award” at the finals of the Ulster Bank Business Achievers Awards.

Danone Sponsors Big Toddle DANONE is now in its sixth year of sponsoring the ‘Big Toddle for Bernardos’, a campaign specifically designed to raise awareness of the importance of children’s nutrition. To date, this campaign has raised €1.5m, making it Barnardos’ biggest fundraising event. Speaking about the campaign, Fergus Finlay, Chief Executive of Barnardos, commented, “Danone’s support has been vital to the success of the campaign and their generous commitment has meant that all money raised goes directly into Barnardos’ nutritional programmes for underprivileged children from 0-4 years of age.” Pictured is Big Toddle trainer Sarah Bolger putting her team of toddlers, Ruby Ayoub, Brooke Holden Halpin, Sean Griffith and Harry Stone to the test. Toddle time is from May 1 to June 30 and teams can register online at www.barnardos.ie/bigtoddle.

Flogas Promises 15% Savings for Commercial Users FLOGAS has announced its intention to become a key player in the commercial natural gas market nationwide by offering businesses a 15% saving on the price currently charged by Bord Gais Energy Supply for its natural gas. Flogas has also said that this percentage reduction will remain in place, even with the planned Bord Gais gas price reduction in May. A leading LP Gas supplier to the commercial and residential sectors, Flogas has moved into the commercial market for natural gas and on a pilot basis, and has been successfully recruiting businesses in the North-East, including Nature’s Best, which employs over 200 people and is one of Ireland’s leading producers of vegetable and fruit-based chilled convenience food products.

Mileevin Fine Foods Receives BRC Accreditation MILEEVIN Fine Foods is the first Irish honey producer to be awarded the British Retail Consortium (BRC) Global Food Standard, a globally recognised food quality accreditation.

Already producing over 100 tonnes of honey a year, equating to over half a million jars, Mileeven Fine Foods believe this award will substantially increase their global market share as key UK and many European and global retailers will only consider suppliers who are BRC accredited. Mileeven Fine Foods currently supplies its honey, organic preserves and fine food products to the US, Japan and major European markets including the UK, Germany, France and Denmark, as well as to the major multiples in Ireland. The company also supplies a number of gourmet and fine food retailers, including Harrods in the UK.

World Of Private Label Show PLMA’s 2009 ‘World of Private Label’ Trade Show takes place at the RAI Centre, Amsterdam on May 26 and 27. Private label is now more important than ever as supermarkets and hypermarkets expand their brand offerings to attract valueconscious consumers and compete against fast-growing discounters. The latest trends in retailer brands will be on display at the exhibition, with manufacturers from 70 countries showcasing their new products and packaging innovations. ‘World of Private Label’ will present more than 3,000 exhibit stands, including over 35 national and regional pavilions. See www.plmainternational.com for more details.

12

April09Drinks

News

A Toast to Portuguese Wine PICTURED at the official launch of the Portuguese Wine Festival at Fresh on Grand Canal Square in Dublin are Vasco D'Avillez, Vini Portugal; Duarte Ramalho Ortigao, the Portuguese ambassador to Ireland; and Noel Smith, Fresh. The month-long festival is being hosted by Fresh supermarkets in Dublin to showcase the very best wines that Portugal has to offer. Run in association with Turismo De Portugal, Vini Portugal, Pousadas de Portugal and Top Flight, Irish shoppers are being offered the chance to visit three wine making regions over seven days in Portugal, through an in-store competition in all four Fresh supermarkets.

Barry & Fitzwilliam Seals Five New Contracts BARRY & Fitzwilliam has sealed new direct distribution contracts with Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Bols Amsterdam, The Edrington Group, Rémy Cointreau Group and SPI Group for a total of 23 internationally-recognised brands. Commenting on the deal, Michael Barry, MD at Barry & Fitzwilliam (pictured), stated, “With a turnover value to Barry & Fitzwilliam of approximately €18m annually (the overall turnover at the firm topped €83m in 2008), these new contracts copperfasten our reputation as Ireland's leading independent drinks importer and represent a solid vote of confidence in our sales and marketing abilities.”

Coca-Cola Cinemagic Film and Television Festival PICTURED at the launch of the programme for The CocaCola Cinemagic Film and Television Festival for Young People are Caroline Curran, Communications Manager, Coca-Cola Bottlers Ireland; Today FM's Ray D'Arcy; Cinemagic Chief Executive, Joan Burney Keatings; and Jacqui Mc Crum, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, AIB Group, co-sponsors. From May 6-13, young film and TV enthusiasts will have a wealth of screenings, masterclasses with film and television industry guests, workshops for schools, a cross border jury panel and Q&A’s to chose from. All of these aim to entertain, motivate and create opportunities for young people aged from 4 to 25.

See www.cinemagic.ie for more details.

New Bulmers Pear BULMERS Pear is the latest new product launch to the Irish drinks sector. With more than 70 years of heritage producing and marketing ciders, Ireland’s only cider manufacturer is confident that the quality and taste of Bulmers Pear is a truly unique offering, which will expand the cider category. Bulmers Pear has a refreshingly light pear taste - crisp with plenty of fruity character.

Available in 568ml Pint Bottle, 330ml long neck bottle and 500ml can, Bulmers Pear will be available throughout the licensed and grocery trade. Pictured at the launch are Barry Moran, Commercial Manager, Bulmers Ltd and Izabella Chudzicka.

Corona Competition Winner PICTURED is Bridget Flynn, winner of the national MyCorona.ie competition, receiving her prize from Michael Whalley of Barry & Fitzwilliam.

Bridget won an an all-inclusive trip for two to the home of Corona in Cancun, Mexico.

13

April09Daybreak

Store of the Year

Daybreak Shines in Mayo Ciaran Ferriter’s Daybreak store in Roundfort, Co. Mayo, is the inaugural winner of the Daybreak Store of the Year competition.

Ciaran

Ferriter has worked in various forms of the retail trade over his long career, and has been working with Musgrave since 1997. Ciaran’s shop in Roundfort, Co. Mayo, has the distinction of being the 2008 winner of the Daybreak Store of the Year competition.

Since being launched in 2005, the Daybreak brand has been growing steadily, with nearly 150 stores now part of the group. This is testament to the strength of the offering to consumers and the level of support retailers receive from Musgrave.

The Store of the Year competition is just one example of the focus Daybreak places on excellence in store standards and service delivery.

Pictured are (l-r): Colm Dolan, Daybreak Territory Manager, and Ciaran Ciaran explains: “Store of the Year involves Ferriter, store owner, Daybreak Roundfort, winner of the Daybreak Store of the Year 2008. detailed audits of every aspect of the business and how it is run. Having your business scrutiDaybreak has designed its Store of the Year competition nised so minutely is a fantastic tool for the retailer: any and to examine every part of the business, with particular all flaws, big or small, are uncovered and results fed back to emphasis on top quality systems and procedures for operatthe shop.” ing the shop on a day-to-day basis. Having been one of the first shops to join the Daybreak Group, Ciaran has had as much time as any other Daybreak retailer to get the systems spot on.

Superb Fresh Food Offering One of the standout areas of Ferriter’s Daybreak in Roundfort is a fresh food offering that would be impressive in a shop ten times the size. The shop employs not only a fully qualified chef in the deli, but a craft butcher and an in-house baker. All fresh produce is sourced locally if possible and is fully traceable, as well as being very competitively priced.

“We have a very strong focus on top quality fresh food,” stresses Ciaran. “Even the ingredients for deli sandwiches are taken from our cuts of meat: we don’t use a single pre-pack to fill the deli and it actually works out cheaper our way. It also suits our customers. Our location means that probably 9095% of our trade is repeat trade. All my customers know just how good the fresh food here is, from the fresh baked bread or cakes to meat or fruit and veg. We have spent a couple of years building up that reputation for absolutely top quality 14

and it has strengthened the business tremendously.”

Competitive pricing is another obvious strength of Ferriter’s Daybreak. Every shelf end duly plays its part as a value offer display, but the value offers continue down the aisles. Margins are tight and a regular schedule of deep-cut special offers from Daybreak help to ensure that every basket offers good value for money. The result is a high volume of happy customers and speedy stock turnover.

Well Trained Staff A key element of any business is staff and, as with every part of his business, Ciaran is exacting in the standards he expects them to achieve. All staff members are very well trained in both the specifics of their job and in customer relations. Ciaran also has a particular focus on strong communication between himself and staff members.

Suggestions for improvements in systems or procedures are keenly encouraged and Ciaran always attempts to make himself available to deal with any issues or problems that might arise.

“The staff in this shop are great,” enthuses the store owner. “Everyone is well trained for their job and in dealing with customers. We have a saying in the shop ‘if you see a problem, you own the problem’ and that sums up the attitude of everyone here. I encourage every member of staff to use their initiative if a problem crops up anywhere in the shop, as well as performing their own duties to a high stan-

dard. While I am the owner, there is a real sense that this is ‘our’ shop and ‘our’ success when we do well.

“That’s one of the main reasons I am so happy to have won the Store of the Year title,” he continues.

“When I heard about the competition first, I talked with staff and we thought we did things pretty well, so we’d see how far we could go in the competition. The fact that we went on to win it is absolutely fantastic and a huge credit to their efforts. I have to say as well that all the support and help I receive on an almost daily basis from all the people at Musgrave and from group initiatives like the Daybreak Retailers Forum has also made a big contribution to the success we have enjoyed as Store of the Year.”

Ciaran Ferriter’s Daybreak in Roundfort has set the bar high for the group’s Store of the Year comFA C T F I L E petition. Next year’s Owner: Ciaran Ferriter winner will have a Location: Roundfort, Co Mayo lot to live up to, Size: 2,000 square feet but with the conNumber of stantly improvStaff: 14 full time & part time ing offering from Opening Daybreak, you can hours: 08:00 – 21:00 be sure the competition is only going to Monday - Sunday get stronger.

15

April09Destination

Shopping

The Community Challenge Highlighting the fact that your store is an active and important part of the community it serves could ensure your status as a ‘destination store’.

The

pressures of owning or managing a grocery store are more exacting than ever, with the recession impacting on consumers across the country, as well as the reality of increasing overheads and ever-tightening margins. Making your shop a ‘destination store’ for consumers is vital, and while there is no doubting that the issue of value is a key one for consumers, the truth is that Irish grocery stores can and do play a much more important role in the lives of consumers than merely a place to shop.

For decades, local retailers have been important to the communities they serve, often forming a hub for the neighbourhood. They employ local people, source local goods, sponsor local events, and can even provide a meeting place for members of the community.

“Community is not just something to which Musgrave and its retail partners in SuperValu and Centra pay lip service to,” notes Donal Horgan, Managing Director, Musgrave Retail Partners Ireland. “At both a national and local level, we are all fully committed to helping local people build vibrant local communities and this is an ethos 16

The new Londis advertising campaign demonstrates the value that a Londis store brings to its community as ‘the place where paths cross and real conversations are held’.

we plan to keep at the heart of everything we do.”

Musgrave and it retail partners in SuperValu and Centra are the second largest employer in the country, employing in excess of 28,000 people in Ireland.

“SuperValu and Centra retailers make significant investments in their local communities in terms of providing local employment, supporting local producers and actively supporting local schools, clubs and sports facilities, along with local charity and sponsorship initiatives,” notes Horgan

Advertising This sense of the grocery store as an important community hub has even transferred to the world of advertising, with the new Londis national and regional press and radio campaign demonstrating “the value that a Londis store brings to its community as ‘the place where paths cross and real conversations are held’,” notes Ruth Norton, Marketing Manager, ADM Londis. “It is our aim to recapture shared community values and rebuild the importance of community within Ireland.

“In these difficult times, Londis believes that once again, shared com-

munity values will come to the fore, with people looking to engage at a local level and with a sense of togetherness to face our challenges as part of a wider, friendlier and united local community.

Engaging with friends, neighbours, local clubs, local sports and local businesses brings us closer together and strengthens our communities.”

Going the Extra Mile The Gala Group too prides itself on its focus on the community and the stores’ commitment to their customers.

“Going the extra mile is the norm at Gala and it is what sets the convenience group apart from its competitors,” boasts a company spokesperson.

“In addition to our great value products, we deliver extra value to our customers through our services to the community ,” comments John McGloin, Gala Foxford, Co. Mayo – Gala Retail Council Member. “At Gala, we offer a personal service, where, more often than not, our staff are on first name terms with the customers they serve.

It’s a close knit community that Gala is very much a part of and through the store’s knowledge of our customer base, we can ensure that Gala in Foxford delivers the product and service that our customers deserve.”

April09Destination

it’s essential to give back to the community which we serve and that has supported our store over the years. The personal touch, a genuine smile and attention to detail is what makes our retail business work and is fundamental to the success of our store and to the longevity of our community.”

Pictured are (l-r): Gary Desmond, CEO of Gala, with This sense of being Phonsie, Molly and Jonathan Irwin and all the Jack part of the community is and Jill family-care paediatric nurses at last year’s common across the symannouncement that Gala is to raise €250,000 for the Jack & Jill Foundation, giving back to the communities bol group sector. Willie that have supported the company throughout the years. O’Byrne, MACE Managing Director, notes how “MACE retailers operate at the McGloin’s view is echoed by Ger heart of the local community in every Dunne, Chairman of the Gala Retail corner of Ireland. We believe that Council and owner of Gala MACE’s unique sense of place and Mountmellick, Co. Laois: “Getting to brand values communicate a warmer, know the store’s customers through more personal feel – something that the ages has allowed us to identify resonates with customers in the current their individual shopping needs. We climate.” place a huge emphasis on looking after all our customers and place a special emphasis on meeting the needs of Sponsorship everyone. From ensuring that we stock Sponsorships can play a vital part in their favourite products to home delivcementing links to the local community, eries for the elderly, we offer a service according to O’Byrne. To this end, to suit everyone from a warm welcome MACE retailers are involved in a varito superb customer service. We are ety of local sponsorships, working with very proud to be part of the community local schools, clubs and voluntary bodof Mountmellick.” ies. “I recently had the pleasure of preThis sense of “giving back to the senting the 2009 Fingal Enterprise community” is extremely important to Awards to primary and secondary Eugene McCaughey, who owns the Gala school children in an event attended by store in Clones, Co. Monaghan, as well around 1,000 pupils and their teachers, as being a member of the Gala Retail a consequence of our sponsorship of the Council. “We’re a family-run business scheme,” he notes. “This type of commuthat’s heavily involved in local community activity is an important aspect of nity events,” he notes. “We believe that MACE’s values, all the more so in these straitened economic times.“ On a national level, SuperValu has been sponsors of Tidy Towns since 1990, a competition which annually harnesses community spirit in towns and villages across Ireland. “Our retailers are at the heart of this initiative by playing an active role on The 2008 Centra Childline Big BBQ raised €408,000 for Tidy Towns committees the charity which touches every community across the and supporting various country. Pictured at its launch are Donal Horgan, Managing Director, Centra; Lorraine Keane, Xpose initiatives aimed at Presenter, TV3; Martin King, TV3 Weatherman; and improving their local Ashley Balbirnie, CEO, ISPCC.

Shopping

area,” notes Donal Horgan. “For our retailers, Tidy Towns is about building community spirit, fostering team work, creating a sense of pride in our environment and above all, working together for the common good.”

Kids in Action is another community focused programme run by SuperValu retailers, which has resulted in €3.4m of free sports and active play equipment being gifted to primary schools nationwide.

Centra too supports active lifestyles in young children in the community, with its sponsorship of the Centra Rugby Camps held in a number of locations across Ireland during the summer.

Another example of retailers working for a common goal within their communities is the Centra Childline Big BBQ, which raised €408,000 for the charity which touches every community across the country.

“At Musgrave itself, we have hosted our own Triathon for the past seven years and have raised €2.5m for the Irish Cancer Society and Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin,” Horgan continues. “This achievement is entirely due to the commitment, dedication and support of SuperValu and Centra retailers, Musgrave suppliers and its staff.”

Caring for the Community Gala’s top tips for ensuring your store is part of the community in which it operates.

1. Offer a personal service – get to your customers and their buying trend.

2. Help to solve your customers’ shopping dilemmas, whether that be through great value offers or assisting with delivery of the items.

3. Train and continually train your employees on customer service.

In communities, ‘going the extra mile’ pays dividends.

4. Support your community through charity initiatives, sponsorships, schools’ initiatives etc.

5. Value every customer. Their repeat business is the bread and butter of the convenience sector, especially in towns and villages across the country. www.gala.ie 17

April09Retail

News Interview

View From The Top

Willie O’Byrne, the recently appointed MACE Managing Director, on Ireland’s changing retail grocery landscape, the evolution of the value-conscious consumer and his ambitious plans for the MACE group.

Willie

O’Byrne was appointed to the newly created position of Managing Director of MACE in late 2008, as part of BWG Group’s streamlining of the entire MACE store network, following BWG’s acquisition of Mangan’s Wholesale last summer.

O’Byrne joined BWG from O2 Ireland, where he was Head of Wholesale Business. Prior to that, he held senior positions with Transaer, Irish Distillers and BWG, where he was Cash & Carry Director in the mid-1990s.

The Irish grocery sector and the symbol group/ c-store area in

18

particular enjoyed tremendous growth over the course of the last decade, revelling in the Celtic Tiger economy. How has the current economic climate affected the FMCG market in general and the convenience store sector in particular?

It goes without saying that the economic conditions have negatively impacted on all aspects of the retail sector, including FMCG and convenience retailing. However, given the services and products our stores provide, and the important presence they have in local neighbourhoods, I think convenience shopping will

continue to hold its own, as long as it adapts to deliver what consumers want. We used to say “cash rich, time poor”, well the “time poor” piece still holds true. In MACE we have responded to the new priorities of price and value, by ensuring keenly priced staples at all times and using great promotions under the ‘Price Fighters’ theme to ensure MACE shoppers are better off with us.

There is an argument that the grocery market is less affected by a recession than other retail sectors. Why do you think this is?

I don’t believe that any sector,

April09Retail

“BWG and others have had to resort to direct importation of some lines to indicate our serious intent to break this logjam and to continue to deliver best value to our retailers and their customers.”

including retail, is immune to the effects of the recession and I think the price wars we’ve seen amongst all the major supermarket chains is evidence of how tough the marketplace is right now. I acknowledge that food is an essential commodity, especially when compared with other more discretionary items, but this doesn’t change the fact that people are scaling back and downgrading on their groceries also. MACE works hard to stay relevant to changing customer needs; it is our formula to ride out the recession. Changing consumer behaviours have implications for range, in-store space and category management, pricing and promotion.

The continued rise of the discounters has shaken up the grocery sector, with the multiples in particular seemingly losing share to Aldi and Lidl. What effect have they had on the symbol group sector?

The economic environment has pushed price and value to the top of the agenda, which has forced all retailers and retail groups to re-examine their total offering and to adjust to give consumers what they want. Although convenience and forecourt retailing will never be able to compete directly with multiples or discounters, we have nonetheless had to address the issue of price and value in line with the entire grocery sector. Ironically, we have noticed another effect of the discounters’ expanded store network; MACE stores located adjacent to them are growing their sales! They benefit from increased passing trade, and

from the ranging policy of the discounters which provides real opportunities for good stores to complete customers’ shopping lists when they come up against “not stocked” issues in Aldi & Lidl.

The issue of price has become top of consumers’ agenda, with the media, Government etc questioning the prices Irish consumers pay compared to our European counterparts. Indeed, many industry commentators feel that Irish distributors are charging far higher prices than their UK and Northern Irish counterparts. What is your view on this issue?

I think it is generally accepted that the cost of doing business in Ireland is something that needs to be examined.

While some costs are lower here, we cannot gainsay the impact of higher labour, property, utility and local government charges. This is not an excuse for the failure to pass on the benefit from a weaker sterling exchange rate. Neither BWG as a wholesaler nor MACE retailers have gained extra margin from this exchange rate movement. The blockage lies further up the value chain, with only the local agents or international brand owners left to account. Already BWG and others have had to resort to direct importation of some lines to indicate our serious intent to break this logjam and to continue to deliver best value to our retailers and their customers.

News Interview

diametrically opposed policy initiatives by the Irish and British governments, in response to the recession. In the long term, the higher cost environment and tax wedge needs to be addressed, but the best short term hope lies in fixing the supplier pricing anomalies.

How can we drive more value into the Irish supply chain?

There are only two ways we can address this, supplier input prices and reduction in local costs! We in MACE have addressed both areas. I have spoken about the efforts on input pricing above; we have tackled the local cost agenda in the integration of the BWG Foods and Mangan’s Wholesale businesses.

How is MACE as a group responding to the current economic situation?

Towards the end of last year, we ran the MACE ‘Price Fighters’ campaign with Olympic boxing hero Kenny Egan, to promote reduced prices and product price deals on a range of popular items.

We have also raised the bar in terms of our ‘own label’ presence, which has proved itself to be a real recession buster and is enjoying double digit sales growth. Next month, we are significantly expanding the current range, which will bring further great value and choice to our customers and sales opportunity to our retailers.

It has been said that the grocery sector is becoming increasingly polarised, from low-cost providers to specialist, premium retailers. How does MACE fit into such a retail landscape?

The MACE retail concept is very adaptable in that we can adjust our offering to meet the demands and

Another burning issue at the moment is the amount of trade Ireland is losing to Northern Ireland: what can be done to arrest this?

While the exchange rate movement is not the whole problem, it has “The creation of a single national been the trigger for business for MACE has re-energised a new wave of cross the brand and its retailers and border shopping, with has generated a record number southern retailers and wholesalers losing out. of development projects and The VAT difference doesn’t enquiries from outside the help at retail level and in estate, expressing interest in the autumn, this gap moved coming on board.” from 3.5% to 6.5% on the standard rate, as a result of

19

April09Retail

News Interview

The recently opened MACE forecourt in Glanmire, Co. Cork.

lifestyles of the market, depending on geography and demography. MACE has a range of store formats from neighbourhood store to forecourt and convenience. Each is appropriate to the micro markets they serve. The store layout and product offerings change from store to store, depending on the wants and needs of the local consumer. Whether our shoppers are looking for food on-the-go, readyprepared take-home options, a basket shop or even just the basic commodity items, we try to cater for everyone.

How will MACE as a group continue to thrive amid the current economic climate?

Performance in the MACE network is holding very steady despite the tough economic conditions. We are continuously developing ways to innovate in retailing, introducing exclusive food and beverage offerings such as our Bess Eaton coffee, MACE sandwich range and other deli offerings which resonate with our customers. In response to the economic situation, and in line with changed consumer priorities, we will work hard to deliver value-for-money, quality products, with a strong emphasis on ‘own brand’ offerings. We will certainly not be holding back on continuous improvement and innovation in our stores, and are very pleased by a strong start to 2009 with several new stores coming on stream and more retailers signing up to the brand.

Last year’s acquisition of Mangan’s Wholesale by BWG was 20

a massive move, essentially giving you control over the entire MACE operation in Ireland. Why make such a move?

MACE is a significant brand for BWG and forms an important part of the company’s overall convenience retailing strategy. Having enjoyed rights for the east and south of the country only, extending our ownership of the brand right across the Republic made perfect sense and strengthens the brand by offering retailers a totally comprehensive package of services.

The acquisition of Mangan’s Wholesale made good business sense because it brings the entire network under one roof. Consolidation in the wholesale sector is a natural and ongoing process and this acquisition has provided real efficiencies to the business.

What changes will it mean for the MACE brand across the country and for MACE retailers in particular?

BWG’s acquisition of Mangan’s Wholesale has resulted in some very positive developments for both MACE retailers and customers. Now a unified business, it has consistency in respect of its excellence in retail standards programme, pricing, promotions, fit-out and store development.

The creation of a single national business for MACE has re-energised the brand and its retailers and has generated a record number of development projects and enquiries from outside the estate, expressing interest in

coming on board. I am particularly proud of the recently opened MACE forecourt in Glanmire, which was a greenfield development and brought Martin and Maria Grandon into the MACE family.

How do you envisage the MACE brand evolving over the coming months and years?

The ambition for MACE is to clearly and objectively secure a place in the top three symbol brands in Ireland and to hold our own in that company.

Regardless of the external environment, we will hold firm to improving and maintaining our traditional focus on excellence in retailing.

Recent developments, not least the acquisition of Mangan’s Wholesale and my appointment as Managing Director of MACE, bear out the commitment of BWG to resource this business division and achieve our goal.

We have an ambitious marketing programme planned and have recently launched a new radio campaign with blanket coverage across Ireland’s leading radio stations. The campaign seeks to address our strong affinity with local communities as well as our commitment to delivering our customers’ demand for price and value offerings.

We are excited about the year ahead and we will make strides to build on our presence within the Irish grocery marketplace. In 2009, our focus will be on continuing to grow and strengthen the MACE network, with additional resources and an increased marketing effort.

RTE has partnered with SuperValu to create a new six-part TV series, which will see 15 home cooks compete for the opportunity to have their own gastronomic creations stocked on SuperValu shelves across Ireland. ‘Recipe for Success’, which airs on May 7 on RTE1, will explore the mechanics of the marketplace, the wants and needs of today’s consumer and the factors which ultimately drive a winning product onto the supermarket shelves and into consumer shopping trolleys.

Viewers of the series will see exactly what goes into the creation of the food we buy - from the initial product concept, to taste and refining the recipe, to the feasibility of mass production. Each week, finalists will present their dishes to a judging panel consisting of SuperValu experts Ray Kelly, SuperValu Marketing Director, Eamon Howell, Trading Director, and Edel Russell, Head of Innovation. Guiding them through the process is Mayo man Oliver Peyton, a multi-millionaire marketing entrepreneur, and Domini Kemp, chef, author and co-founder of itsabagel.

SuperValu is an Irish-owned family business and a tireless supporter of Ireland’s local producers. 75% of products sold in SuperValu stores are either produced or sourced in Ireland, thereby supporting local economies, creating jobs and building vibrant sustainable communities. In addition to sourcing over €1.9 billion worth of Irish goods at national level, SuperValu’s network of 195 entrepreneurial retailers also support many of their own local suppliers.

Tune into the show on May 7 at 8.30pm on RTE 1!

April09Ice

Cream

Cool Profits From growth in premium products to nostalgia brands, ice cream offers a wealth of opportunities this year, and the recession will not be freezing sales.

The

Irish ice cream market is valued at approximately €125m (excluding Dunnes Stores) and can be broken down into two main categories: out-ofhome impulse Singles, (e.g. Iceberger, Cornetto, Magnum), which is worth €65m (-5.9%); and take home (e.g. HB pint brick), which is worth €60m, up by 0.3% on the previous year’s figures (Source: AC Nielsen, Total Market excl.

Dunnes Stores, Value, MAT Feb. 22, 2009).

Sales of ice cream multi-packs continue to grow, with a 3% value growth. The top five sellers in multipack represent almost 30% of multipack value sales. The super premium sector also grew, by 4% in both volume and value, driven primarily by the success of Ben & Jerry’s, which is up by 10% in value year-on-year.

In terms of the credit crunch and the Ice Cream sector, industry experts at Unilever believe the trends around eating in, holidaying at home and 22

Magnum Temptation Caramel & Almonds, one of the most lavish and luxurious Magnum ice creams ever, which comes in a distinctive new, sensual shape in the style of an elegant jewellery box.

staying in will all deliver growth for As market leader with 77.4% value the category. Amid the economic market share (Source: ACNielsen bigloom, consumers are looking to month market track to November 2, economise in 2008), HB will continue to ensure the some areas – brand remains top of mind with conbut indulge sumers. themselves HB are keen to promote the with small brand’s low-fat credentials, with treats in othless than 5g fat per serving. ers. Unilever All the brand’s key mesbelieve that sages and more will be adult and premicommunicated through um ice cream a new advertising brands such as Ben campaign that & Jerry’s and Carte kicks off from this D’Or will continue to month. The latest sell well through the addition to the recession, with more conrange is new sumers swapping nights outs at Hazelbrook Farm restaurants for nights in with a tub 1L Brunch. The of ice cream.

Brunch sku is New Solero Berry Berry one of the contains strawberry sherbet ice cream with a biggest sellUnilever fruits of the forest swirl ing Unilever is the undisputed and a fruits of the forest flavours in impulse ice market leader in ice cream, sorbet coating with real cream and is guaranclaiming a phenomenal 80.4% fruit pieces. teed to be a key of the out-of-home impulse growth driver for the ice cream catesector, and 70.1% of the take home gory under the HB Hazelbrook Farm sector. brand in 2009.

One of Unilever’s key initiatives is HB are continuing with a strong a heavyweight communication campromotional plan to drive awareness, paign for Hazelbrook Farm in 2009.

April09Ice

Cream

effective ways to keep that little bit of well deserved luxury in their lives. With its thick cracking Belgian chocolate and velvety ice cream, Magnum offers an indulgent ice cream experience to be truly savoured and enjoyed.

For 2009, Magnum has re-defined the chocolate and ice-cream experience with new Magnum Temptation Caramel & Almonds, one of the most lavish and luxurious Magnum ice creams ever, which comes in a distinctive new, sensual shape in the style of an elegant jewellery box. Magnum Temptation Caramel & Almonds includes milk HB has introduced the Twister Mini Chocolate, a chocolate, velvety ice super soft swirl of chocolate, sweet caramel and cream made with smooth vanilla flavour ice cream, made using no Madagascan vanilla, big artificial colours or flavours. drops of caramel sauce and crunchy Californian almonds encased support new product development and in fine Belgian dark chocolate. deliver great value for shoppers.

The HB brand engages in consistent new product development, with recent innovations including Magnum Temptation, “luxury on a stick”; Carte D’Or’s Cinnamon Caramel Waffle; Ben & Jerry’s Chocolate Macadamia; Solero Berry Berry; the Ice Age 3 Licensed Lemon Age lolly; Twister Mini Chocolate.

Magnum ice cream is the number one adult indulgent ice cream brand in the impulse sector. Based on high quality ingredients, this indulgent chocolate brand maintains its position with 57% market share. With sales continuing to rise, Magnum is bucking the current trend, showing that Ben & Jerry’s Chocolate people are seeking other, more cost Macademia: shaking up the

Pleasure Card promotion applies to best-sellers Magnum Classic & White impulse and multipack. Lucky winners can use the card wherever Mastercard is accepted to spend their “credit” on any pleasures they choose.

Solero Berry Berry, which contains 50% real fruit pieces and fruit juice, is the latest addition to the Solero brand. New Solero Berry Berry contains strawberry sherbet ice cream with a fruits of the forest swirl and a fruits of the forest sorbet coating with real fruit pieces.

HB has also introduced the Twister Mini Chocolate, a super soft swirl of chocolate, sweet caramel and smooth vanilla flavour ice cream, made using no artificial colours or flavours. Twister Mini Chocolate is available in multi-packs at a recommended retail price of €4.99.

Consumers can get their hands on a complimentary Twister inspired twisting hoop by purchasing one Twister multipack from participating supermarkets nationwide while stocks last, while HB are also rolling out a national Twistathon Competition, with lots of exciting prizes up for grabs.

super premium sector.

New HB Hazelbrook Farm Brunch, guaranteed to be a big seller.

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HB’s on-pack Pleasure Card promotion, which runs until June 30, gives consumers the chance to win part of a €1m prize fund, with 25 winners every hour, with Mastercard Pleasure Cards up for grabs, preloaded with cash, from €10 to €1,000. The

SmileGum is a new smiley face strawberry & chewing gum flavour ice cream, with chewing gum as an added treat.

The perfect summer blend NEW additions to the core range

Häagen-Dazs ice cream smoothies are a new range of indulgent fruit blends combining refreshing fruit sorbets with creamy fruit ice creams Now available in two 500ml flavours • Raspberry & Summer Berries • Mango & Apricot Supported with heavyweight consumer press and digital campaign

The Häagen-Dazs core range • Häagen-Dazs is the best known luxury ice cream brand1, and is growing at 5.2%2 • Häagen-Dazs is supported with a €500,000 marketing spend including national TV, cinema nema and press

1

IPSOS Brand Equity Monitor September 2008 AC Nielsen 12 w/e 25th January 2009 (excluding Dunnes nnes Stores & impulse). Häagen-Dazs and associated words and designs are trademarks of General Mills © 2009 2

April09Ice

Cream

Says Colette Coughlan, Brand Manager, HB ice cream, “The universally popular Twister has been much loved since its introduction and this fun filled campaign really captures the fun elements associated with Twister. We’re looking forward to seeing people of all ages join us at our twisting events and already sensing the competition to be Ireland’s number one twister will become the talking point of the coming month.”

New product developments in children’s ice cream this year include a Lemon Age lolly , to tie in with Ice Age 3, the kids’ blockbuster movie of summer 2009. Lemon Age is a lemon flavour ice lolly with a lemon flavour ice cream core and cola flavour jelly pieces. Consumers bite through the ice and discover the cola flavour acorn. Like the rest of the HB Kids range, Lemon Age Lolly contains no artificial colours and flavours.

Another new development, SmileGum is a new smiley face strawberry and chewing gum flavour ice cream, with chewing gum as an added treat, while new Calippo Shots Strawberry & Lemon is a refreshing mixture of 50% strawberry shots and 50% lemon shots, with only 25 kcals per pack.

One of the big winners in the multi-pack category was Magnum Minis, gaining a share of 4% in multi-packs since their launch and attracting new users to the ice cream sector. The success of Magnum Minis is it’s appeal as ‘ a little indulgence you can enjoy more often – it taps into the in home sofa moment’.

In the hugely important super premium sector, Ben & Jerry’s Phish Food remains the number one seller, followed by Ben & Jerry’s Choc Fudge Brownie, while Ben & Jerry’s Baked Alaska holds a share 6% since launch in 08 (Source: ACNielsen, MAT, Feb. 22, 2009).

The latest flavour addition to the Ben & Jerry’s range, Chocolate Macadamia is on a global mission to provide a fair deal through Fairtrade for farmers in emerging and developing countries. Consciously created with ingredients from around the world, Chocolate Macadamia is destined for the first ever Ben & Jerry’s worldwide release. A double dip of 26

Fairtrade chocolate and vanilla ice cream, with a crunchy twist of buttery rich, chocolate covered Macadamia nuts, the hand picked collection of Fairtrade certified ingredients include cocoa from the Dominican Republic, vanilla from India, and sustainably produced Macadamia Nuts from Malawi, and Caring Dairy from the Netherlands.

This new flavour will be supported with a heavy advertising and sampling campaign.

With a warm summer predicted this year, HB will ‘Relive the Fun’ of fond Irish childhood summer memories. An exciting campaign starts in April, consisting of two radio ads, a Häagen-Dazs’ new Ice Cream Smoothies strong outdoor campaign plus online Facebook advertising, making the best range comprises two flavours – Raspberry & Summer Berries and Mango & Apricot. selling iconic HB brands such as Choc Ice, Loop the Loop, Brunch, Wibbly Wobbly Wonder & Feast top of mind. notes Ed Culf, Marketing Director for HB also operates in the €50m soft Häagen-Dazs. ice cream sector, with its HB Swirl IT Express franchise concept. HB Swirl Dale Farm Ice Cream IT Express is a young, dynamic shopDale Farm Ice Cream is continuing to in-shop fresh fruit and soft ice cream drive the market by expanding its concept that addresses retailer issues product range in the adult impulse such as maintaining good margins of sector, with its own range of luxury 70%-plus, while addressing the ever Rapture products. Using the finest increasing need to provide the conquality vanilla dairy ice cream and sumer with strong innovation. luxurious Belgian Chocolate, sales of Rapture have grown considerably since their launch three years ago.

Häagen-Dazs Building on the initial success of Spring 2009 sees the launch of the Mint and Almond variants and Häagen-Dazs’ innovative new ice the Strawberry Cone, Dale Farm cream creation, Ice Cream Smoothies, launched the Rapture Minis Take an indulgent blend of creamy fruit ice cream and luxuriously smooth and fruity sorbet.

The new Ice Cream Smoothies range comprises two flavours – Raspberry & Summer Berries and Mango & Apricot. Raspberry & Summer Berries Ice Cream Smoothie is an enticing blend of mixed berry sorbet with raspberries and gorgeously creamy summer berries ice cream, while Mango & Apricot Ice Cream Smoothie combines smooth mango sorbet and creamy apricot ice cream with succulent apricot pieces.

“Our Ice Cream Smoothies range is an exciting new development for us, an exquisite marriage of flavour The tempting new Kit combinations and textures that Kat Cone from offer an inspiring alternative to Nestlé, available from Dale Farm. traditional ice cream, ideal for moments of pure indulgence,”

April09Ice

Cream

favourites of Pear Picking Porkie, Joker and Polly Pineapple Advice for Retailers Dale Farm also distributes • Create awareness outside the the tempting new Kit Kat Cone store from Nestlé and the new • Position cabinets in impulse Cadburys Fruit and Nut areas to maximise sales.

Stick, alongside many other • Use POS in-store to direct shopfamous brand products. In the pers to the cabinet. take-home block sector Dale • Stock the best sellers and make Farm have new price-flashed pint products easy to find chocolate, bricks in both Vanilla and Raspberry classics, cones, refreshment and Ripple: marked at €1.59, they are kids. sure to be popular with customers.

• Keep cabinets clean and In the take-home block sector Dale Farm Market leading brands, award attractive. have new price-flashed pint bricks in both Vanilla and Raspberry Ripple: winning standards of service and • Stock ice cream all year round – marked at €1.59. excellent marketing support for a third of all ice cream sales are customers guarantees that Dale made during the winter months.

Farm Ice Cream will continue to grow Home Pack, providing customers from strength to strength.

Provided by HB ice cream with a range of tempting products to enjoy straight from the freezer at for the Irish Cone & Wafer Co. brand. home. The latest addition to the The Irish Cone The new logo illustrates the herrange, which is sure to be a success, & Wafer Co. itage of this Irish brand, combined is the Rapture Honeycomb Cone, The Irish Cone & Wafer Co. is a longwith a colourful and exciting palette with honeycomb flavour dairy ice standing Irish supplier of premium to create a fun and modern packaging cream in a biscuit cone and lashings cone and wafer products. The company, format. The Irish Cone & Wafer Co. of caramel sauce, all topped off with established since 1944, underwent a packaging launch is supported by ina sprinkling of crunchy honeycomb full packaging re-brand in March, crestore POS solutions. pieces. ating a fresh and up-to-date new look “The Rapture range has been a very successful addition to our market leading portfolio,” explained Patrick Morgan, General Sales Manager.

“We are positive that the The Irish Cone & Wafer Co. underwent a full packaging re-brand in March, new products creating a fresh and up-to-date new look for the brand. will prove very popular throughout the ICE CREAM FACTS new season.”

The classic - Ireland has the third highest ice cream consumption per capita in Europe, range of lollies, after Sweden and Finland. popular with young and old - It has been scientifically proven that Ice cream makes you happy. alike, has also been expanded to include - In a recent study, 85% of Irish parents said they give their kids treat foods take home multionce a day or less, but ice cream was the most popular choice as they packs of Choc Pop believe it’s the healthier choice. 83% of Irish nutritionists agree that fun and Mr Frostie, foods like ice cream can help maintain a balanced diet. More than half suralongside the firm veyed said that ice cream can be eaten once or twice a week as part of a balanced diet.

New Rapture Honeycomb Cone, with honeycomb flavour dairy ice cream in a biscuit cone and lashings of caramel sauce, all topped off with a sprinkling of crunchy honeycomb pieces.

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Consumers are definitely more health conscious about what they eat and want the best of ingredients in products. In 2006, HB increased the fruit juice content and reduced the sugar by 10/20% in 90% of its kids ice creams and ice lollies.

April09Deli

- Food Handling

Deli’s Heroes Your deli is one of the most valuable areas in your store.

Ensure it stays that way with our guide to food handling for hot and cold deli.

Perhaps

no one area instore has grown in popularity and scope as quickly or as comprehensively as the in-store deli. Over the last decade, what was once a small part of your business (if at all) has mushroomed into one of the busiest sectors in the average convenience store, providing hungry consumers with hot and cold food-to-go from breakfast until dinner time.

Therefore, it is important for those preparing and handling this food to remember that poor food handling

practices can cause food poisoning.

Food poisoning can be very serious. Symptoms vary from mild discomfort due to vomiting and diarrhoea to life threatening illness.

Infants, pregnant women, the frail, elderly and the sick are most at risk from food poisoning. So, whether you are serving hot sausage rolls in a forecourt or preparing ham and coleslaw sandwiches in a c-store, you need to make sure the food you prepare and serve is safe to eat.

By law, all food handling staff

must be supervised, instructed and/or trained in food hygiene commensurate with their responsibilities. You can prevent your customers from getting food poisoning by following the simple rules outlined in this article, based on the FSAI’s ‘Safe Food To Go’ booklet (available at www.fsai.ie).

While viruses cause some food poisoning cases, most result from bacterial contamination. Bacteria are tiny living structures that can only be seen with a microscope. Most bacteria are harmless but some can cause disease.

KERRYFRESH

mium Carvery Meats Range, Ballyfree Carvery Stuffed Turkey. This oven-roasted Carvery Turkey with a unique KERRYFRESH is one of Ireland’s leading suppliers of quality foodservice ingredients and food-to-go concepts for stuffing, flavoured with onion, leek, herbs and spices, is deliciously tasty in hot or cold sandwiches or as a main delicatessens, sandwich bars, coffee shops and workplace ingredient in a prepared meal caterers. offer.

They continue to work closely with Kerryfresh’s service extends customers to develop their food-to-go beyond the provision of a wide offering; to ensure it’s suitable for both variety of fresh ingredients, snacks their current and target customers. and meal solutions, however, as New products and ideas keep custhey also offer a range of services tomers interested and so far 2009 has and accessory products to raise welcomed the launch of Cajun Chicken their customers’ profile and help Pieces, Battered Chicken Bites, drive business forward. For more Cooked Cumberland Jumbo Sausages Ballyfree Carvery Stuffed Turkey is information please contact and Traditional Oxtail Soup. deliciously tasty in hot or cold sandwiches Kerryfresh on LoCall 1890 560 960 This month sees the launch of or as a main ingredient in a prepared or visit www.kerryfresh.ie another addition to their super-premeal offer.

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April09Deli

- Food Handling

If present in food, some of these disease-causing bacteria can cause food poisoning. Bacteria are found everywhere – in soil and water as well as on people, animals and food. Raw products, especially raw meats, poultry and fish, may contain dangerous bacteria. Bacteria on raw foods may then be transferred onto other food, such as cooked or ready-to-eat foods, during food preparation or storage.

This is called cross contamination.

At room temperature, bacteria can multiply into millions after only a few hours on one piece of food. One spoonful of contaminated food may be enough to make someone very sick – or even kill them.

Cooking food thoroughly kills bacteria. To do this, the centre or core of the food must reach 75°C instantaneously or equivalent, e.g. 70°C for two minutes. The core is taken as the thickest part of the food.

Cross Contamination

The Most Common Food Poisoning Bacteria

Food handlers who handle food incorrectly during preparation can spread bacteria and contaminate food directly by: • Letting raw food touch cooked or ready-to-eat food.

• Letting blood or juices from raw food drip onto other food.

Food handlers may also spread bacteria and contaminate food indirectly by: • Handling cooked or ready-to-eat food immediately after handling raw food, without washing hands.

• Using equipment such as knives, kitchen utensils and chopping boards for the preparation of cooked and ready-to-eat foods after preparing raw food, without cleaning the equipment.

• Placing cooked or ready-to-eat food on counter tops where raw food has been, without cleaning and disinfecting the work surface.

• Using the same dish cloth for different work surfaces or using dirty cloths.

What Makes Bacteria Grow?

Bacteria need food, warmth, moisture and time to grow and multiply.

Food – bacteria grow well on high protein foods such as meat, fish and dairy products.

Temperature – most bacteria need warm conditions to grow.

They grow well at room temperature (21°C).

Moisture – bacteria require moisture to grow. They do not grow well on dry products such as biscuits.

Time – Bacteria multiply very quickly and can double in number every 20 minutes.

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Salmonella bacteria are most commonly found in poultry but are also found in pigmeat and other foods.

Salmonella food poisoning is mainly associated with eating contaminated chicken and eggs and their products.

Campylobacter has relatively recently been recognised as causing food poisoning and now it exceeds salmonella as the leading cause of bacterial food poisoning in Ireland. It is present in a wide range of animals and birds and is commonly found on raw poultry meat.

E. coli O157 is found in the gut of cattle and is mainly associated with eating undercooked minced beef (e.g. beef burgers), but cross contamination from raw meat can transfer these bacteria to other foods. It can cause serious illness and may even result in death.

Staphylococcus aureus is typically found on the hands and in and around the nose of healthy adults. During

food preparation food handlers can easily transfer it onto food.

The Danger Zone Bacteria that cause food poisoning grow at temperatures between 5°C and 63°C – above refrigeration temperatures and below cooking temperatures. Bacteria grow best at warm temperatures – approximately 25° to 40°C. However, if food is kept out of the danger zone – either cold at refrigeration temperatures less than 5°C, or hot at greater than 63°C – most bacteria will stop growing, although they do not die. Therefore, food should be kept hot in a hot holding cabinet or kept cold in a refrigerated display unit to prevent any bacteria that may be present on the food from multiplying. Food should be kept in a hot or cold display unit and not left sitting on top where customers can contaminate the food by handling or sneezing.

You should have sufficient space to carry out food preparation safely.

There should also be sufficient space for food storage. Never use food past its ‘use-by’ or ‘best-before’ date and always ensure good stock rotation for all foods whether stored in a hot cabinet, fridge or dry goods store.

For Hot Food: •

•

Cook food thoroughly – the core temperature should reach 75°C instanteneously or equivalent, e.g. 70°C for two minutes. The core is taken as the centre or thickest part of the food.

Keep hot food hot – keep hot food

COUNTRY CHOICE BAKES A WINNER A TRADITIONAL braised beef meal is to hand all day with the new Braised Beef and Vegetable Dinner Bake from Country Choice. And at 230g, the Braised Beef and Vegetable Dinner Bake is 30% larger than standard savoury bakes and makes for a really substantial snack. Chunks of tender braised beef, together with a medley of sliced potatoes, green beans, carrots and broccoli in a rich gravy, are all packed inside a puff pastry case, ready to be baked and served from the hot display. A handy cardboard holder makes it even easier to enjoy a favourite recipe on the move.

For further information call Country Choice on Freephone 1800 812 760, or visit www.countrychoice.co.uk.

The new Braised Beef and Vegetable Dinner Bake from Country Choice.

April09Deli

but let the steam evaporate from the food first before covering and placing in the refrigerator.

Cutting the food into smaller portions or spreading in a shallow dish will facilitate quicker cooling.

BRADY FAMILY THE Brady Family range of premium quality, hand crafted, traditional Irish hams are renowned for their rich taste and succulent flavour. Only Irish pork is used, sourced from Bord Bia approved suppliers. The range is completely natural, un-processed and contains no water. Brady Family’s products include traditional Cooked Ham, Crumbed Ham, Baked Ham, Oak Smoked Ham and Glazed Ham, all on or off the bone.

Good Food Handling Practices Brady Family range of premium quality, hand crafted, traditional Irish hams are renowned for their rich taste and succulent flavour.

New to the market, Brady Family Traditional Carved Ham in parchment is available in 130g packs and is guaranteed to delight consumers. Watch out for a new addition to the range in the coming weeks - Brady Family Traditional Crumbed Ham. Recently, Brady Family launched an artisan range of exceptional, hand made product created by James Mc Geough, Brady Family’s products include master butcher from Oughterard, Co. traditional Crumbed Ham, which is Galway. The range includes Air Dried proving hugely popular. ham, pork and lamb. Winner of an internationally renowned Great Taste Gold Award in 2008, Brady Family Connemara Air Dried Ham is an exceptional product. The product itself is endorsed by celebrity chef Clodagh McKenna and is available in both pre-pack and bulk formats for the Deli counter. For more information, contact 045 863650 or visit www.bradyfamily.ie

•

•

•

• • •

in a hot holding cabinet (above 63°C). This is outside the danger zone.

Lukewarm food is dangerous – keeping food only warm is a perfect environment for bacteria to grow.

Cooked food not stored above 63°C should be used up within two hours of cooking.

First in/First out – ensure the first batch of cooked food placed in the hot holding cabinet is served first.

Only reheat (i.e. regeneration) once.

Reheat to piping hot 70°C at the core of the food.

Discard hot held food leftover at the end of the day.

•

•

•

•

For Cold Food: •

Keep cold food cold – store in a refrigerated display unit (below

- Food Handling

•

5°C). This is outside the danger zone so bacteria will not multiply.

Only freeze food once – once food is defrosted, bacteria can multiply. If this is frozen again, the amount of bacteria could be at a dangerous level.

Defrost thoroughly – if the centre of the food is still frozen it may not be fully cooked before serving and some bacteria may survive.

Mark leftovers and discard after day two – salads and sandwich fillings left over at the end of the day may be kept for use for the following day, provided they are covered and remain at refrigeration temperatures.

Use up the leftovers first and avoid mixing them with freshly prepared salads or sandwich fillings.

If cooling cooked food for refrigerated storage, cool food quickly,

You can prevent the spread of food poisoning bacteria through good food handling practices and by maintaining good personal hygiene.

• Never allow raw food to come into contact with cooked or ready-toeat foods.

• Store raw foods separately from cooked and ready-to-eat foods.

• Alternatively, store raw food on the bottom shelf in the fridge and store cooked and ready-to-eat food on the top shelves.

• Keep food covered or store it in sealed food containers.

• Wash your hands between handling raw and cooked/ready-to-eat foods.

• Use separate work areas, utensils and equipment for preparing raw and cooked/ready-to-eat foods. If this is not possible, clean and disinfect utensils and work surfaces carefully between these tasks.

• Ensure that your service cloth is kept clean and is replaced frequently.

Good Personal Hygiene Wash your hands thoroughly using hot water and liquid soap: before starting work before handling cooked or readyto-eat food before using disposable gloves after handling raw food after using the toilet after handling rubbish after smoking after sneezing, coughing and using a handkerchief after performing routine cleaning tasks.

Be clean and tidy •

•

Be clean and tidy and wear clean protective clothing such as an apron or overall when handling or serving food.

Keep hair clean and covered 31

April09Deli

- Food Handling

under a cap or hair net. Long hair must be tied up.

Keep nails clean and short.

Don’t wear strong perfume, nail varnish or excessive make-up.

Restrict your jewellery to a plain wedding band and small earrings.

• • •

Treat food with care •

Do not handle food unnecessarily – use a tongs where possible.

Do not spit, pick your nose, lick your fingers, taste food with your fingers, eat, chew gum, cough or sneeze near food that you are preparing or serving.

Cover cuts and sores with a blue waterproof dressing.

Inform your immediate supervisor if you have diarrhoea or an upset stomach. If you are ill you should not prepare or handle food but may perform alternative duties until the illness has passed.

•

• •

Cleaning the Work Area Cleaning is important as bacteria grow on dirt and food particles and can result in food becoming contaminated with food poisoning bacteria.

Always “clean as you go” and mop up spills as they occur. Try to keep your work area clean and tidy. Clean and disinfect food surfaces regularly.

Detergents clean by removing visible dirt. Disinfectants kill bacteria that are invisible to the eye. It is very important to clean with a detergent first to remove all visible dirt and food debris so the disinfectant can be 100% effective at killing any bacteria that may be present.

COUNTRY CHOICE BIG BITE SAUSAGE ROLL COUNTRY Choice is meeting consumer demand for a more substantial sausage roll with its new Big Bite Sausage Roll, a larger offering with more staying power. The substantial seasoned pork sausage meat filling is wrapped in light golden puff pastry, creating a 250g meaty roll that will satisfy the largest appetite. Perfect for all hot Country Choice Big Bite Sausage Roll, savoury display units, the Big wrapped in light golden puff pastry, Bite Sausage Rolls are packed in creating a 250g meaty roll that will cases of 40 and best presented in satisfy the largest appetite. a Bake & Bite Long Savoury Box. For further information call Country Choice on Freephone 1800 812 760, or visit www.countrychoice.co.uk.

MAXIMUM CLEANLINESS FROM CWS-BOCO THE BestCotton towel from CWS-boco offers maximum cleanliness for retailers.

It can also save you money, as the cotton towel is more absorbent than standard paper towels. It also protects the environment: cotton is an extremely renewable resource which can be used up to 100 times and is washed using environmentally friendly products and is completely recyclable. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, a better hygiene standard is achieved compared to paper and hot air. The roll is processed antibacterially so that treated rolls will remain 99.9% antibacterial from the time of delivery until time of collection. For more information, see www.cws-boco.com.

FSAI LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE THE Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has launched its new website, www.fsai.ie, which is a comprehensive source of information for food businesses on every aspect of food safety, food hygiene management and food legislation.

The FSAI website, which received over 180,000 hits in 2008, representing a 58% increase on 2007, has a wide range of new features and improved navigation tools to help people access information quickly. They include an online complaint function and an automated subscription service.

The newly enhanced FSAI site now also has a dedicated ‘food businesses’ section which provides guidelines on starting a new food business; topics of interest and information and access to food-handling training procedures and mate-

32

rials. The ‘food businesses’ section also provides information on HACCP (Hazard Analysis & Critical Control Point), a legal requirement with which all food businesses must comply. Also, of interest for food businesses is the ‘legislation’ section, which provides links to all the Irish and international food acts and legislation.

The homepage of the website has both a ‘feedback form’ and ‘make a complaint’ functionality, which enables the FSAI to participate in two-way interaction with users and obtain feedback from stakeholders who are observing and working in the field. All information submitted via the website is investigated and where necessary, acted upon immediately.

April09Deli

– New Technology

Gala Signs Up With Kelsius The Gala group has initiated new wireless food safety monitoring solution from Belfast-based Kelsius.

Belfast

any Web-enabled PC or laptop. HACCP reports can also be automatically emailed or faxed, as required.

“In dealing with food safety, the system has to be paperless, more efficient and less labour intensive,” explains Fresh Food Manager for the Gala Group, John Ireland. “By using Kelsius, a store manager knows immediately if a freezer has malfunctioned and, in addition, the automatic monitoring and storing of records reduces risk, minimises errors and saves a huge amount of staff time, training and record taking.”

Currently, Gala stores in Tullamore, Co. Offaly, Kilkee, Co. Clare, Newross, Co. Wexford, and Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, are operating the Kelsius wireless food monitoring system. Further plans for installations in six Gala stores located in Cork and the Midlands are underway and Gala has since received enquiries about the Kelsius system from a number of other Gala retailers across Ireland.

“The Kelsius system is undergoing continuous improvement and updates to keep it in line with the latest legislation,” John Ireland continues. “This means any store using Kelsius will fully meet new, legal food safety requirements.

The solution provides immediate resolution to problems: it eliminates the risk of human error during the food preparation process, it is easy to train new staff, and is also very easy to maintain. We believe that the Kelsius system The agreement between Kelsius and Gala will see puts Gala years ahead Kelsius’ wireless food monitoring solution implemented of competitors that still across the Gala Group’s 260 retail stores in the use paper-based sysRepublic of Ireland. tems.”

based Kelsius, one of the leading providers of automated HACCP compliance systems, has entered into a strategic partnership the Gala Group, which will see the roll-out of the Kelsius wireless food monitoring solution across the Gala Group’s 260 retail stores in the Republic of Ireland. The agreement follows the successful installation and trial of the Kelsius system at four Gala locations in 2008.

The Kelsius HACCP solution is a fully automated, paperless system which ensures full compliance with statutory food safety requirements.

The Kelsius wireless temperature sensors monitor and record air and product temperatures in all refrigerated areas. If a measured temperature rises above a set limit, an alert is triggered. This alert can be transmitted as a text message, email or via local visual and audible alarms. In addition to continuous temperature recording, the Kelsius system also provides time and task management by recording key activities such as goods received, cleaning tasks and hot food probing.

All records are securely stored on the Kelsius website and each retailer can access their records at any time from

Kelsius CEO, Les Curran, said, “We are delighted to have entered this important partnership with the Gala Group. The Kelsius system makes life much simpler and safer for those retailers who are concerned about protecting both their customers and their brand.”

Taking the Hassle Out of HACCP THE Kelsius wireless monitoring system is a fully automated, paperless, HACCP solution that ensures full compliance with food safety requirements and recording processes.

Kelsius wireless temperature sensors monitor and record air and product temperatures in all refrigerated areas.

The system also provides time and task management by recording key activities such as goods received, cleaning tasks and hot food probing plus random food temperature checks using an infrared gun.

All records are securely stored on the Kelsius website, from where staff can access records via any web-enabled PC. Daily reports can also be received via email or fax.

Contact Kelsius on: Tel: 1850 535353 Email: sales@kelsius.com Website: www.kelsius.com 33

April09Deli

– Legislation

Managing the High Cost of Waste A guide to dealing with the Fats, Oils and Greases management program, as laid down by Dublin City Council, and expected to be rolled out across Ireland in coming years.

Since

2008, Dublin City Council have implemented a Fats, Oils & Greases (FOG) management program. Similar programs are expected to be “rolled out” by all Councils in Ireland.

The effect of fats, oils, greases and grease-laden food particles being discharged from food service establishments is similar to a build up of cholesterol in the arteries of human beings. The objective of the FOG program is to prevent blockages in the public drainage network by restricting the discharges of FOG from food service establishments.

Dublin City Council’s Drainage Division will control the discharge of FOG to the drainage system by issuing licences under the Water Pollution Act, to a food service establishment.

These licences will require the individual outlet to limit the amount of FOG they can discharge down their drains.

In the Dublin City Council area, food service establishments are required to submit a license application along with a fee of €380. The application should indicate how the retailer proposes to conform to the anticipated effluent discharge parameters, with respect to the Fats, Oils and Grease management program.

Implementing Procedures The FOG management program requires all food service establishments to implement the following procedures: 34

The GreaseShield from Environmental Products and Services Ltd: widely regarded as the best greasetrap in the world.

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Establish that any existing greasetrap is adequately sized and conforms with one of two standards: the European standard, EN 1825 which deals with external greasetraps, or an American standard referred to as PDI G101, which deals with internal below counter type mechanical greasetraps.

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The retailer has to provide a hydraulic flow computation and show that any existing prevention means is adequately sized or what is being proposed is of sufficient capacity.

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Typically, a file has to be prepared and ideally should show, by reference to digital photographs, all kitchen equipment going to drain.

In the case of new builds, an AutoCAD Schematic of the kitchen would be required to show the kitchen appliances.

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The retailer is required to show evidence of having a ‘Best Management Practice’ (BMP) policy guide and should ensure training for all kitchen staff to minimise or eliminate solids and greases from entering the drainage system.

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The retailer has to provide for a sampling point on each and every greasetrap outlet. The method of sampling will be by a “grab” or “snatch” technique, which is obtained by displacement of effluent within a greasetrap, potentially resulting in oxygen depleted water high in SSs and emulsified FOGs being sampled, leading to the risk of food service establishments facing significant effluent charges or fines.

It is thought that sampling of the effluent will take place on a periodic

April09Deli

basis to ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of the consent to discharge trade effluent license.

The effect of fats, oils, greases and grease-laden food particles being discharged from food service establishments is similar to a build up of cholesterol in the arteries of human beings.

Annual Fee

Every food service establishment will be required to pay an annual fee to Dublin City Council. This fee will vary from €590 for canteens to €870 for pubs, restaurants and supermarkets, rising to €1630 for larger establishments. A food service establishment may face significant additional costs arising from non compliance with effluent licensing parameters. This annual fee has been calculated, based on the Polluter Pays Principle, to reflect the costs to DCC of implementing the program to the industry.

Daily Maintenance Log Books are required to record the amount of FOGs and solids being removed and

– Legislation

that daily emptying and cleaning procedures have been carried out.

Greasetraps should be serviced and maintained on a regular basis.

External greasetraps, including those located in basements and situated below ground, should comply with the specifications set out in EN 1825 Parts 1 and 2 and be adequately sized to handle the trade effluent being discharged from kitchens: they should also be pumped regularly and refilled with clean water.

Fats, oils, greases and used cooking oils should be stored in a secure bunded facility prior to being collected by an authorised waste collector, one who has the appropriate permits. The collection details, including the amount of the oils and greases being collected, should be recorded in the form of a manifest record, so as to provide for a paper trail which can be audited by the relevant authorities.

Stop Throwing Money Down the Drain!

The Prohibition of Enzymes

4

Enzymes have been used in many food service establishments, convenience stores and fast food outlets, but the net effect of the enzymes is that the problem is transferred downstream (maybe into a local river or stream) where the FOGs reform – the problem has merely been moved along – not solved. Enzymes are also expensive – another cost to add to the growing list of deli and food service establishment overheads.

Section 18.1.1 of the 2006 Regional Code of Practice for Drainage Works states: “In generFilterShield protects the drainage system by removing al, the use of pollutants and contaminants without energy consumption degreasing agents or having any moving parts.

WITH the current economic climate weighing on the minds of the majority of shops, cafe, deli and restaurant owners, ongoing drainage problems are an added woe that could possibly bleed them dry.

Environmental Products & Services recommends six simple steps to help save you money: 1

2

3

5 6

SINK FILTER: Prevent problematic wastes going down the drain.

FLEXIPLUMB: Simply squeeze the running trap to clear all blockages.

FILTERSHIELD: Remarkably simple, yet so effective at dealing with contaminants.

GREASESHIELD: The best greasetrap in the world!

PLUG & PLAY SOLUTION: It can’t get any simpler!

MANAGED SOLUTIONS: Giving peace of mind!

With more than 2500 units installed, GreaseShield products are becoming a hot commodity in shops and fast food outlets throughout Ireland and the preferred choice for many multiples.

For more information, contact: Environmental Products & Services Ltd, Unit 5, Shepherds Drive, Carnbane Industrial Estate, Newry, Co, Down, Northern Ireland, BT35 6JQ. Tel: 048 3083 3081 or +44 (0)28 3083 3081.

Email: info@ ProtectingtheEnvironment.com and enzymes for the breakdown of grease is not permitted”.

The Dublin City Council FOG program has had a “rough ride” during the initial introductory phase but its success to date has been characterised by some 2,000 greasetraps being installed in a year.

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April09Shop

Profile

At the Heart of the Community Moriarty’s SuperValu, Balbriggan, has been providing choice and value to its local customer base since 1991, growing with the community it serves.

Balbriggan

town has expanded over the last decade almost beyond belief: the population has seen an explosion due to new housing developments and an influx of families relocating to the area. Balbriggan has much to offer its residents in terms of facilities but above all, it provides top class shopping facilities as it is home to Moriarty’s SuperValu, a store which has grown with the town.

From what was a 13,500 square feet store with narrow aisles and the “traditional grocery store” look and feel when opened by Luke Moriarty in 1991, the store underwent a revamp in 2001 to bring its floor space to 16,500 square feet and after a major redevelopment in 2008, now boasts retail space of 21,000 square Store Manager Gerry Buckley and store owner, Luke Moriarty, pictured feet, representing a €6m investment. inside SuperValu Balbriggan.

Moriarty’s SuperValu is now one of the most modern and impressive stores in the Dublin region, with parking for over 270 cars in a newly developed The Personal Approach underground car park.

Luke Moriarty is a hands-on retailer and to emphasise this The newly revamped SuperValu store represents all local and personal approach, the store features a large sign as that is innovative and dynamic about the SuperValu brand you walk in the door, with a picture and welcome message and its ‘Real Food, Real People’ ethos. The store is vibrant, from the store owner himself. This immediately reflects the upbeat and stylish, the stone-clad exterior and tower are in emphasis put on customer service and the warm friendly keeping with the environment and instantly recognisable atmosphere throughout the store. to the residents of Balbriggan. The interior demonstrates Moriarty’s SuperValu is at the heart of the community the SuperValu personality throughout, particularly in the it serves and as such, is acutely aware of and responsive to fruit and vegetable, butchery and bakery sections and cerlocal needs. Local sponsorship and support of local clubs is tainly demonstrates Moriarty’s strong commitment to be a top priority for the store: it has been overall club sponsor the number one store for fresh food and produce in its for O’Dwyer’s GAA club for the past 10 years and also supcatchment area. ports Balbriggan Rugby Club and Balbriggan FC. The store is also involved in the Balbriggan Tidy Towns and provides ongoing support to all local national schools initiatives.

Focus on Fresh Categories On a section by section basis, the SuperValu focus on fresh categories is clear to see in SuperValu, Balbriggan.

Its large fruit and vegetable department as you enter is inviting and its well laid out colourful displays scream the fresh produce message. This sec38

April09Shop

tion also features an impressive “new season best” display unit which highlights the SuperValu expertise in providing top class seasonal product from Irish suppliers. This is a key differentiator for SuperValu in the fresh product area and in particular reflects Moriarty’s support of local suppliers. Moriarty’s SuperValu demonstrates strong commitment to local producers and suppliers throughout the store and invests over €2m per annum with local suppliers, including McGee & Sons, Superdawn Fruit and Veg, Keelings, Pacon Waste and Nite Own. The bakery department is another hero area for the Moriarty store, and is stocked with a huge selection of freshly baked breads and cakes. Baskets of crusty loaves, French sticks, baguettes, soda breads and speciality breads are displayed in this bright and airy section, which allows the customer to stand back and appreciate the product range on offer, while being enticed by the smell of freshly baked bread.

Butchery is another key area for SuperValu, Balbriggan.

The butchery offers a large selection of top class meat, with expert butchers on hand to offer advice. All the signage in this area communicates strong messaging to consumers in terms of sourcing, quality assurance and highlights the availability of trained professionals. This messaging, in conjunction with recipe leaflets, reassures the consumer they are making correct choices while also providing ideas for healthy eating and family cooking.

Completing the shopping experience is the off licence section, offering the customer a large selection of wines and beers, with a strong mix of KVI’s and value deals, and a heavy emphasis on box deals. This mix of value deals and wellknown brands also carries through into the wine category.

The Wow Factor This store certainly has the ‘wow’ factor, including extra wide aisles for convenience, an expanded product range offering the best of Irish and local produce, in-house wine experts to guide customers through the vast range of over 500 wines and ATM and Lotto facilities. In addition, as the customer walks through the store, they are hit with the consistent value for money offering, demonstrating SuperValu Ballbriggan’s competitiveness and exceptional value on everyday low priced items, own brand range and price promotions.

Luke Moriarty is the driving force behind the Moriarty group of SuperValu stores, but the next generation of Moriarty’s are certainly making their mark in the business.

Luke’s two daughters, Yvonne and Laura, along with his son James work closely with their father in running the businesses on a daily basis. All three are involved in the management of the stores, in conjunction with managing the marketing and public relations aspects.

Confidence in the Community The store employs 150 local staff from the Balbriggan area.

Profile

According to Luke Moriarty, “A big part of the store’s success is down to its staff. We have a large number of staff employed from the locality and many of those have been with us for a long time, such as manager Gerry Buckley, who has been with the Moriarty group for over 20 years.

We are delighted to be able to give something back to the community we serve, particularly in this economic climate.

“Our €6m investment in this store reflects our confidence in the community and our customers,” he continues.

“Balbriggan was a small tight-knit community when we opened our first store in 1991. While it still has a great community feel, the population has exploded over the past 10 years due to the Celtic Tiger and the building boom. In response to this boom and increased customer demand, we took the opportunity to grow with the town and the increased business potential. It’s great to see second and third generations shopping in the store. Teenagers who shopped with their parents when we first opened are shopping with their own families now. This is a real indication to us that we have the correct value mix and are offering our customers exactly what they want.”

The development of the Balbriggan store was planned carefully to meet the needs of the local community and provide excellent service, range and quality produce in a modern convenient location.” We have spoken and listened to our customers to ensure the extension and refurbishment includes all the additional services and products they want in their local store,” explains Luke Moriarty. “This store will certainly excel through its strength in fresh food, a consistent keen value offer, strong and lasting relationships with our local suppliers and the expertise and cusFA C T F I L E tomer service of the Owner: Luke Moriarty store’s manageLocation: Drogheda Street, Balbriggan ment and team.

Size: 21,000 square feet Value applies Number of to the whole Staff: 150 shopping expeOpening Opening Hours: 8am-9pm rience in our hours: (open until 10pm on Thursdays); store and is at the 10am-7pm, Public Holidays top of our agenda in everything we do.”

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April09Snack

Foods

The Snack Attack The vast snack foods market shows no sign of slowing growth, as consumers seek out indulgent treats that they can still afford.

While

the vast majority of industries are predicting a year of declining sales and diminishing profits, Ireland’s snack food market in the enviable position of looking forward to another 12 months of value growth, particularly the extremely lucrative crisps and snacks sector.

Indeed, the Irish crisps and snacks market, valued at an estimated €209m per year, grew by almost 6% over the past year, remaining a very lucrative FMCG category for Irish retailers (Source: ACNielsen, Markettrack, Value, MAT, Feb. 22 2009).

“The crisps and snacks market seems to be very resilient in the face of recession,” explains Nicola Wells, Marketing Manager, Walkers. “The latest figures, to the year end last year, show that the category as a whole is in strong value growth of around 5.5%.

When you look at the total grocery market, confectionery, of which crisps and snacks are a part, is bearing up very well and is ahead of the curve because crisps and snacks are not a big ticket item in terms of the weekly shop. They have become a regular item in the grocery shop and with a lot of people looking for ways to save money, we are seeing the rise of the packed lunch, of which crisps are a staple, so

40

multi-packs are showbrands are worth over ing strong growth.” €15m combined.

“We feel there will “There has been a be a growth in the change in consumer snack foods market preference and now this year,” agrees there is a real appetite Raymond Coyle, owner for new flavours. This, in and founder of Largo turn, has developed an Foods. “Due to the increase in sales across recession and the genour more bespoke flavour eral lack of money, peoranges in our core crisps ple will eat more comand sharing categories,” fort food. Last year, saw explains Nicola. “Walkers an almost 6% growth in has spearheaded this snack foods and we feel increase in choice and that will continue has introduced conacross the whole catesumers to new taste sengory.” sations. We have investHowever, it’s not ed in bringing innovajust in the area of tive flavours to the The Walkers Sensations brand crisps and snacks that market and it has has been given a sensational new Irish consumers conproved to be exactly look, supported by increased tinue to spend, with what the customer marketing support. snack food in general wants. Having the proving pretty strong in the face of best flavours out there is what is drivrecession. Convenience remains very ing sales.” important, and today’s time-poor conThe focus on developing flavour can sumers are increasingly turning to be clearly seen in the latest Walkers’ snacking solutions. on-pack promotion – the highly-successful ‘Do us a Flavour’ campaign which is still running. The six final Walkers flavours, entered by the members of Irish consumer research has confirmed the public, are Fish & Chips, Onion that Walkers has the best range of flavours and, according to Nicola Wells, flavour is driving Irish crisp sales - especially within the sharing category.

Overall, the sharing category is in strong growth in 2009, with increases of 13% value and 19% volume in the latest period (Source: ACNielsen Marketrack, 8w/e Feb. 22, 2009).

Walkers is contributing to this with the highly successful Doritos and Sensations brands.

Doritos and Sensations are the number one and number two sharing bag brands in Ireland respectively and together they have five of the top ten selling sharing lines (Source: ACNielsen Marketrack, 8w/e Feb. 22, 2009). In 2008, Doritos grew by 13% Walkers’ extremely popular Doritos and with Walkers Sensations, the brand grew by 13% in 2008.

BLACK IS THE NEW WHITE!

Walkers Sensations have had a makeover UÊ Þi V>ÌV }Ê iÜÊ«>V Ê`ià } UÊ i V ÕÃÊ iÜÊyÊ>Û ÕÀ UÊ >Ãà ÛiÊ >À iÌ }Ê ÛiÃÌ i ÌÊ V Õ` }Ê/6

We’re sure there’ll be an exciting new look to your sales too.

Visit us at www.sensationscrisps.com

April09Snack

Foods

Bhaji, Chilli & Chocolate, Crispy Duck & Hoi Sin, Builder’s Breakfast and Cajun Squirrel. Each was chosen by a judging panel fronted by Chief Judge, Chef Heston Blumenthal, and are currently facing public vote to decide which one stays on sale permanently.

Retailers have stocked up to make the most of this great selling opportunity.

An Irish promotion is currently running on www.walkerscrisps.ie where consumers can vote and be in with a chance of winning €10,000.

“The market has changed considerably from a time when cheese and onion was the only flavour of crisp that merited any space on-shelf,” Nicola notes. “The profit opportunities from increased flavour offerings are substantial. This promotion also picks up on a consumer trend towards the customer having a ‘say’ in its favourite brands, something started by reality shows like the X Factor and now being extended to brands. Our consumers are telling us that they want more flavours and we are working with them to give them that, and more.”

2009 marks a new era for the Walkers Sensations brand. The brand has been given a sensational new look, supported by increased marketing support. The changes include an eye-catching new pack design in lustrous black and exciting new flavours made from real ingredients.

An exciting new flavour addition to the Sensations sharing range is Buffalo Mozzarella & Herbs – which is available in 160g format – and this joins the existing Sensations range of best-selling flavours: Thai Sweet Chilli, Vintage Cheddar & Onion Chutney, Balsamic Vinegar & Caramelised Onion, Roasted Chicken & Thyme.

For the third year, the Sensations brand also sponsored the Sensations TV Now Awards, one of the biggest nights of the year for TV lovers, which was broadcast on TV3 on April 19.

“The crisps and snacks market is a dynamic one and one which still has plenty of growth potential,” sums up Nicola Wells. “Walkers is constantly innovating to stay ahead of trends and to be the first to bring the consumer another reason to buy into the category. That means retailers can look forward to seeing Walkers products fly off 42

the shelves as quickly as they can stock them…a shared success!”

Largo Foods Largo Foods, the number one Irish manufacturer of snack food products, is home to the Tayto, Hunky Dorys, King and Sam Spudz brand portfolios.

Largo Foods, located in Ashbourne, County Meath, currently employs over 600 people and represents a total market share of over 47%.

King Crisps command a strong 11.5 % crisp share and boast a dominant position within the Leinster region.

2009 marked the third year of Hunky Dorys sponsorship of boxer Bernard Dunne, who recently became World WBA Super-Bantamweight champion.

Tayto, Ireland’s number one brand with 30% market share, has been pioneering its new product launches over the last 18 months. Tayto Velvet Crunch has proved a highly successful portfolio extension for the brand with sales in excess of €4m. Velvet Crunch now commands almost a 5% share of the snack category. To celebrate its phenomenal success, Tayto launched its first nationwide Velvet Crunch advertising campaign with 6-sheets, 48-sheets and print support in January 2009.

Similar to other food products, the crisps and snacks market has witnessed positive growth in the healthy and sharing categories. To support these consumer trends, Tayto launched Tayto Bistro in the crisps category, Tayto Occasions snacks in the sharing Snacks category and, most recently, Tayto Toobz in the Tubes market.

Combined, these brands are contributing to €2.5m worth of sales in the crisps category.

King Crisps, ‘The Crisp Lover’s Crisp’ commands a strong 11.5 % crisp share (Source: ACNielsen, Markettrack, Value, MAT, Feb. 22, 2009) and boasts a dominant position within the Leinster region. The King range consists of both standard King crisps, of which the distinctive King Cheese & Onion flavour is the firm favourite among consumers, and the healthier option, King Lites, for those seeking a great tasting lower fat alternative. The King brand presents an excellent stocking opportunity for retailers to add further sales in the growing crisp category. On Easter Monday in the Fairyhouse Festival, King Crisps proudly sponsored the King Crisps Hurdle, where a fun-filled

Tayto Toobz has made a big impact in the Tubes market.

April09Snack

Foods

Steak, Cheddar & Onion and Salt & Malt Vinegar. 2009 is looking good for McCoys, with further high growth predicted, helped by massive above the line support. The new on-pack offer, starting in June, gives blokes the opportunity to win what they love the best, hundreds of gadgets.

Rancheros and Tayto Occasions snacks have proved extremely popular Skips, both made in in the sharing snacks category.

Ireland in Tallaght, continue to prove favourites with day was had by all. younger Irish consumers. With value 2009 marked the third year of for money in mind for the ever cost Hunky Dorys sponsorship of boxer conscious young consumer, Rancheros’ Bernard Dunne. On March 21, 2009, new improved flavour and texture will the country witnessed one of the greatbe price flashed at a trial price of 50c est nights in Irish boxing and Irish for a limited period. New Skips Sweet sport when Bernard Dunne became Chilli has proved a real hit and will World WBA Super-Bantamweight form part of a new TV campaign for champion at the Hunky Dorys World Skips. Both brands will also take part Title Fight Night, defeating Ricardo in an innovative instant win promotion Cordoba in the 11th round. The roof on later in the year. 2009 will see The 02 arena nearly came off as the increased activity in terms of extra sell out 9,000 crowd exploded in celeweight consumer offers, combined with bration. Hunky Dorys were honoured extra value case activity for the retail to be supporting such a world class trade. sports star as Bernard Dunne on an occasion that will go down in Irish history.

Robert Roberts Hula Hoops claims leadership of Ireland’s savoury snack sector. Part of the brand’s ongoing success is its widespread appeal to all ages. The brand has constantly evolved to reflect the changing tastes of today’s younger generation through new flavours, designs and pack formats, as well as being regularly supported by relevant above and below the line activity. Watch out for two big bursts of TV in April and July.

July will also see a massive on-pack link with movies, which will be a great hit with kids and parents alike.

There is nothing like the Real McCoys’ crisps. One of the fastest growing crisp brands on the market, McCoys offers real value to both the consumer and retailer alike. McCoys is all about satisfying hunger: with 50g of robust real flavours, it consistently provides a substantial satisfying eat, combined with consistent product quality. Its core flavours are Flamegrilled 44

Hula Hoops has constantly evolved to reflect the changing tastes of today’s younger generation through new flavours, designs and pack formats.

The KP snack portfolio also includes Frisps, Discos, Nik Naks, Mega Meanies, Crunchies, Meanies and Mini Chips. “Overall 2009/10 will see continued support for the key KP

Phileas Fogg search the far-flung corners of the world, from the aromatic spice markets of India to the bustling harbours of Indonesia, to find the right ingredients, seasonings and tastes in order to make delicious savoury snacks.

brands and the introduction of some more exciting new lines to meet ever changing consumer demands,” promises a company spokesperson.

An intrepid and tireless traveller once set off on a journey around the globe – he wanted to unlock the secret of truly authentic flavours. That man was Phileas Fog, and you’ll find his name on every bag of Phileas Fogg crisps and tortillas.

Today, the people at Phileas Fogg search the far-flung corners of the world, from the aromatic spice markets of India to the bustling harbours of Indonesia, to find the right ingredients, seasonings and tastes in order to make delicious savoury snacks.

“However, it’s not only the seasonings we take pride in, also ensuring that only the finest ingredients are used in our product, so that there are no artificial colours and flavours, only 100% sunflower oil is used and there is no MSG,” notes a company spokesperson. “It’s that passion, combined with the finest ingredients that gives Phileas Fogg its unique authentic taste.”

The Phileas Fogg portfolio includes a range of 140g bags: Sea Salt & Indonesian Black Peppercorn Flavour Crisps; Mexican Sweet Chilli Flavour Crisps; Irish Cheddar with Onion Chutney Flavour Crisps; Salsa with Mexican Chilli Flavour Tortillas;

TOTALLY NEW PROFIT OPPORTUNITY!

DON’T MISS OUT

April09Snack

Foods

treat, Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Squares Totally Chocolatey combines delicious chocolate with toasted grains of rice and is topped with tasty milk chocolate chunks. ‘Totally Chocolatey’ joins ‘Chewy Marshmallow’, ‘Caramel Chocolate’ and ‘Crazy Choc’ as Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Squares Totally Chocolatey the fourth addition to the BR Foods combines delicious chocolate with toasted grains of rice Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Squares Pom-Bear are teddy bear and is topped with tasty milk chocolate chunks. family. ‘Totally Chocolatey’ is now shaped potato snacks which available in multi-packs of four bars, these brands satisfies a different conappeal to kids aged 4-8. Pom-Bear as well as single bar formats. sumer need for; portable energy, tasty snacks guarantee kids’ fun while also What is impressive about the treat, shape management and convenkeeping parents happy: they are gluten growth of the cereal snacks category is ient lunchbox solution. free, with no artificial flavours, colours that it has been achieved without canAt the heart of the or preservatives, are only nibalisation of the lucrative confecKellogg’s snacks’ success tionery and savoury snacks categories. story has been the ability Convenience retailers should therefore of the company to drive merchandise cereal snacks within the innovation to offer the conimpulse area to capitalise on profit sumer exciting new food opportunities. formats. Some of the most recent examples of this include the introduction of HJ Heinz Kellogg’s Special K MiniThrough its Baked Beanz, Pasta and Breaks, a tasty bagged Soup brands, HJ Heinz has long been snack made from oats, rice associated with healthy and convenand corn. With only 99 ient snack foods. Ongoing investment calories per bag, Kellogg’s

by Heinz sees it set to remain a keen Special K Mini-Breaks player in this sector into the future. offer a perfect snacking These new product launches ensure solution to individuals that Heinz continue to satisfy conPom-Bear are teddy bear shaped potato snacks which who are managing their sumer demand for convenience, choice appeal to kids aged 4-8. shape, tapping in to the and nutrition without compromising growing consumer quest for healthier on taste or quality, and without the lightly seasoned and now contain 50% convenience. addition of artificial colours, flavours less saturated fat.

Fulfilling a completely different or preservatives.

The range includes 19g single consumer need, the very latest addiHeinz Snap Pots are a super-conserve bags in Original, Cheese & tion to the Kellogg’s snacks portfolio is venient format available under the Onion, Salt & Vinegar and Prawn Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Squares Totally ever-popular and highly versatile Cocktail flavours, and six-packs in Chocolatey. An indulgent chocolate Heinz Baked Beanz and Spaghetti both Original & Cheese & Onion. A Hoops brands. Ideal for consumers strong promotional campaign has who seek an even quicker way to prebeen planned for 2009 with both onpare a tasty and healthy snack, each pack promotions and product sampack of Heinz Snap Pots offers four pling. individual 200g portions of Heinz Baked Beanz or Spaghetti Hoops that Kellogg’s are ready from the microwave in just Since Kellogg’s first introduced cereal one minute. Heinz Snap Pots are the snacks to the Irish market in 1997, the ideal lunch or snack solution, with growth of the category has been stageach pot offering all the benefits of gering, going from zero to almost high fibre and low fat expected by con€40m in just over 10 years. During sumers of Heinz Baked Beanz and that time, Kellogg’s has maintained its Spaghetti Hoops. position as stand-out market leader, Heinz Big Eat is a range of hearty owning all of the top five brands, which snack options and marks Heinz's first include Kellogg’s Nutri-Grain, With only 99 calories per bag, entry into the growing Instant Hot Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Squares, Kellogg’s Special K Mini-Breaks Snack market. Heinz Big Eat offers Kellogg’s Special K bars and bagged offer a perfect snacking solution to “Real Food Real Fast” and is the ideal snacks, Kellogg’s Cereal & Milk Bars, individuals who are managing their shape. snack solution for those who want a and Kellogg’s Fruit Winders. Each of Sour Cream with Mild Mexican Chilli Flavour Tortillas. The Mexican Sweet Chilli Flavour Crisps and Irish Cheddar with Onion Chutney Flavour Crisps are also available in 38g bags.

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Flanagans Sales and Marketing, 01 4051091 www.flanagansdirect.com

April09Snack

Foods

The Heinz Big Eat range includes Chicken & Vegetable Curry in a generous 350g single serve microwaveable pot.

healthy, filling, quick, hot snack but who don't want to sacrifice ingredients, flavour and texture. Unlike other instant hot snacks, there is no need to add water: Heinz Big Eat is ready from the microwave in just 2.5 minutes.

There are three varieties in the Heinz Big Eat range – Spaghetti Bolognese; Chicken & Vegetable Curry; and Spicy Chicken Tortellini – each in a generous 350g single serve microwaveable pot.

Pot Noodle range also offers King Pot, which is available in Chicken & Mushroom and Original Curry flavours.

To support the brand in 2009, expect more creative campaigns, sampling and fabulous in-store promotions.

Knorr Quick Lunch is a range of tasty snack meals easily prepared and Knorr Quick Lunch is a range of tasty snack meals ready to eat within five mineasily prepared and ready to eat within five minutes. utes: all that’s needed is a ketCarbonara, Mushroom, Primavera and tle and a fork! Knorr Quicklunch curBolognese. rently claims a 22% share of the instant

Knorr Pastaria is a fantastic range of easy-cook pasta based meal dishes, perfect for consumers looking for a quick and tasty meal in minutes.

hot snacks category (Source: ACNielsen, Harvest Fare MAT, December 28, 2008) and is growAs Ireland’s leading range of nuts, ing rapidly. This range is ideal as a qualHarvest Fare, from Boyne Valley Pot Noodle is market leader in the ity hot food snack or as a side dish to Group, has been at the forefront of instant hot snacks sector, claiming accompany any meal. Available in a growth in the savoury snacks market. over 40% share (Source: ACNielsen, range of seven varieties, from firm The brand has had a healthy MAT, December 28, 2008) and continfavourites such as Curry Rice and Pasta makeover and added a little bit of fun. ues to be one of Ireland’s most dynamic Arrabiata to the delicious Creamy Pasta The new livery is eye-catching, with and exciting brands. The instant hot with Chives, the range offers something strong colours sure to attract strong snacks market is currently valued at to suit all tastes. shelf stand-out. €6.9m and is maintaining high levels Knorr Pastaria is a fantastic range The entire Harvest Fare range has of steady growth. of easy-cook pasta based been segmented into four sub catemeal dishes. The number gories, allowing for easier product one brand, claiming an identification and quicker choice for 80% share of the Savoury consumers. The range is split into Pasta sector (Source: Savoury, Spicy, Raw and Sweet.

TNS, MAT, May 2008), Cashew Nuts, Pistachios and Sea Knorr Pastaria has been Salted Peanuts make up the Savoury a long serving favourite range. Chilli Nuts and Bombay Mix with consumers. Ideal as make up the Spicy range. The Raw a meal on its own or range comprises Hazelnuts, Brazils served as a side dish, Knorr The ever-popular Pot Noodle range has been improved Pastaria to offer consumers the tastiest Pot Noodle yet. has proved popular across all ages, The Pot Noodle range has been for those looking for a improved to offer consumers the tastiquick and tasty meal in est Pot Noodle yet. The wide and varminutes. The range ied range offers a choice of nine mouth offers many traditional watering flavours, such as long-standfavourites for the Irish ing favourites Chicken & Mushroom, Harvest Fare has had a healthy makeover, and now consumer, including Chow Mein and Original Curry. The

Unilever

sports a new eye-catching livery.

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April09Snack

and Fruit & Nut Mix. The Sweet and Sassy range includes Yogurt covered peanuts and raisins, Chocolate Raisins and Chocolate Peanuts.

Other improvements to the range include the development of an easyopen pack. The family pack has been modified and improved to make opening the pack easier and to eliminate the issue of the bag splitting. The bag also has a handy improved peel-and- reseal tab, which makes it easy to store uneaten nuts after the pack has been opened.

The entire range has been developed with a good dash of tongue-incheek humour to engage consumers at the point of purchase.

Harvest Fare has consistently offered consumers a premium range with plenty of choice. This taste tempting range includes spicy mixes such as Chilli Nuts, savoury mixes such as Trail Mix, sweet nut mixes such as Yogurt Covered Peanuts as well as nut bars. Best sellers continue to be Pistachios, Cashews, Brazils, Hazelnuts and Bombay Mix. The Harvest Fare range is available in large family bags, ideal for entertaining, as well as 60g impulse bags, perfect for on-the-go munching.

lunching and indulging, all to help consumers feel good, inside and out, hassle free. Sweet and succulent diced apricots, plump juicy raisins with sweet cranberries, a delicious fruit and seed mix, and the deliciously crunchy pumpkin seeds covered in dark chocolate are the four initial products being launched that will kick-start the io range.

Proudly packaged in Ireland, the io brand looks to take healthy snacking to a new level by targeting the health conscious adult market, with the key focus being to make healthy snacking affordable and convenient. Healthy, tasty, convenient products are just what we all need and that is exactly what the io brand provides.

Foods

bread for all occasions: for breakfast or lunch, as a snack during a busy day, or as an evening sandwich before going to bed.

Wasa Sesam is a thin and delicate crispbread made from wheat flour and covered in toasted sesame seeds.

Ryvita Ryvita has a complete image makeover across its entire portfolio, supported with a heavyweight investment in the brand across 2009, including high profile TV advertising.

Flanagan’s Sales & Marketing

Wasa Crispbread, the healthy whole grain alternative to bread, forms the foundation of a nutritious diet. Low in fat and Ryvita has a complete image makeover across calories, its delicious crunch is its entire portfolio. full of fibre and has no sugar.

Consumers can combine Wasa with Ryvita’s new look uses strong savoury spreads, meat, cheese, fruits, bright colours, emotive imagery, and vegetables, soups or salads for endcolloquial language to communicate Gem Pack Foods less delicious options. a more unified brand look and feel The io range uniquely selects and comWasa Fibre is a crunchy and with the simple human touch clearly bines real foods to cater for snacking, tasty wholegrain crispbread demonstrated on-pack. To complewhich is as good for the stomment this, on-pack copy adopts an ach as the flavour would suginformal everyday tone, reflecting gest. It has added wheatbran the openness and honesty of the and wheat fibre to the 100% brand. All these elements have been wholegrain rye flour, to make devised to engage consumers and the bread particularly good for drive recall across each of the cateyour body. Three slices of Wasa gories that Ryvita operates in.

Fibre gives consumers almost As part of the revamp, Ryvita 30% of their daily dietary fibre Muesli Crunch - a sweet Crispbread requirement, as well as imporwith currants, oats and seeds develProudly packaged in Ireland, the io brand looks to take healthy snacking to a new level. tant B- vitamins and minerals. oped to be eaten untopped - is reWasa Original is a slightly branded as Ryvita Fruit Crunch, with thinner and finer crispbread, new eye-catching packaging which with a genuine taste of rye. A promotes a new usage occasion.

The io range, from Gem Pack foods, uniquely selects and combines real foods to cater for snacking, lunching and indulging.

Wasa Crispbread is low in fat and calories, full of fibre and has no sugar.

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April09Yellow

Fats

Golden Opportunities New product development is shaking up what was perceived as a static market.

The

he yellow fats market comprises butters, fats and spreads products. While spreads and margarine account for the greatest portion of the market, it is butter and increased sales of spreadable butter that are fastest encroaching on sales in the segment.

While the market for yellow fats could have been described as mature a few years ago, the last two years have seen a rejuvenation of sorts in the market, as consumer health concerns led manufacturers to develop a whole new generation of yellow fats with added health benefits. This new product development has driven both innovation and value within the sector, including the development of functional yellow fats and spreads, such as those that help to reduce cholesterol.

The trend towards healthy spreads containing omega-3, omega-6 fatty acids and calcium is a valuable one, suggesting that there is plenty of room for growth in this once-static sector. Indeed, products containing omega-3 fatty acids have been in serious growth since 2005, as consumers become increasingly familiar with its health benefits.

Consumers have been willing to pay more for tastier and more natural products, meaning they are trading up for premium butter and health spreads, but whether they continue to do so in the current economic climate is considered doubtful, as value for money becomes increasingly important, joining health issues as consumers’ top concerns.

The tendency has been for products across all food categories to move 50

The massively popular Kerrygold brand is owned by the Irish Dairy Board, a commercial dairy cooperative, which exports and markets Irish dairy products abroad.

increasingly towards marketing along healthful lines: emphasising changes such as a lower trans fat or salt contents. Manufacturers of yellow fats can play up their taste attributes and health credentials to boost consumer spending and add value to the sector.

The concept of flavoured spreads and butters is also a new trend, with spreads for specific meal recipes a distinct possibility, such as products like sun dried tomato and basil butter for use in pasta, chilli and lime butter for use in stir-fries, or butter with curry powder for use in making curries.

According to Mintel consumer research, men (particularly between the ages of 25 and 34) are the main purchasers of buttery spreads.

However, there are currently no spreads targeting men specifically, which is another potential opportunity for the sector.

erative, which exports and markets Irish dairy products abroad. Today, Kerrygold has loyal consumers in over 60 countries around the world, stretching from North America to Australia, Russia to South Africa and throughout Europe. In Germany, Kerrygold is the number one butter brand.

Kerrygold’s success is clear-cut. It is ‘real’ food, 100% natural, with no additives beyond salt for flavour. In Ireland, Kerrygold's claims a market share of over 46% and is supported by TV advertising and in-store promotions.

Connacht Gold Connacht Gold has continued to grow

Kerrygold With the multiplicity of blends and competing connotations in the yellow fats sector, one brand has retained its clear, uncomplicated message, Kerrygold: 100% pure Irish butter.

Unquestionably a household name in Ireland, the Kerrygold brand is owned by the Irish Dairy Board, a commercial dairy coop-

Connacht Gold’s new Chocolate and Honey spread should shake up the yellow fats sector.

April09Yellow

Fats

its market share in the yellow fat category in 2008 through its core range low fat and softer butter products, as well as its innovative range of 100g butter products (Source ACNeilsen, Datatrack, MAT, Dec. 08).

2009 sees the launch of Connacht Gold’s chocolate and honey and white chocolate and honey products.

These delicious and innovative new products are ideal for spreading on snacks and treats. These new Connacht Gold products are sweetened with honey and contain no hydrogenated or transfatty acids, and they spread straight from the fridge. Connacht Gold chocolate and honey products are conveniently packed in outer display trays and are available in 150g tubs. The products are available from the fresh dairy chill cabinet from April 2009.

inherent to the brand’s continuing success.

Born out of butter spreads, Low Low caters for changing trends in consumer tastes and health, with four variants in the spreads range: Low Low Original, Low Low Gold, Low Low Lower Cholesterol and Low Low Omega 3.

With the new Low Low Spreads TVC going live on air last January, 2009 promises to be an action packed and exciting year for the Low Low brand. Kerry Foods are investing in an extensive marketing campaign for the dairy brand this year, which will include TV, radio, in-store and POS promotions.

Flora

Connacht Gold White Chocolate and Honey spread comes in 150g tubs and is conveniently packed in outer display trays.

Low Low The Low Low brand, from Kerry Foods, is one of Ireland’s fastest growing dairy brands. Aligned to the contemporary needs and wants of the Irish consumer, Low Low offers a wide range of dairy spreads and cheese. Low Low’s unique ability to offer healthier, lower in fat foods without compromising on taste is 52

Low Low caters for changing trends in consumer tastes and health, with four variants in the spreads range: Low Low Original, Low Low Gold, Low Low Lower Cholesterol and Low Low Omega 3.

Flora, from Unilever, is a key player in the Irish yelhealthy diet and lifestyle. The prodlow fats sector and claims leaderucts in this range contain plant ship of the health spreads sector sterols, an active ingredient that’s with over 45% market share clinically proven to significantly (Source: ACNielsen, Scantrack Data, lower bad cholesterol.

Feb. 22, 2009). Well known for its All in all, 2009 is shaping up to association with be another promising year for Flora, healthy hearts, Flora with the brand investing significantis made from a heart ly in media, trade support, PR and healthy blend of natsampling, as well as the hugely sucural seed oils, rich in cessful sponsorship of the Flora Omega 3 and 6, lower Women’s Mini Marathon, which in saturated fats takes place on June 1 this year. than butter and virtually trans-fat free.

This year, Flora successfully relaunched Flora Buttery in Ireland. Flora Buttery has a delicious buttery taste but with 70% less saturated fats than real butter, making it better for your heart.

Flora has also introduced a new ambassador for the Flora pro.activ, cholesterol lowering range.

Gloria Hunniford endorses the product range for those Flora Buttery has a delicious buttery taste but wanting to lower their chowith 70% less saturated fats than real butter, lesterol and follow a making it better for your heart.

April09Oils

Liquid Gold The market for oils, particularly olive oil, in Ireland continues to develop, as consumers tap into the health properties of the Mediterranean diet.

The

market for oils, particularly olive oils, in Ireland continues to grow, as consumers tap into its health benefits, with many consumers trading up to premium oil products and those with lower fat or added health properties.

One of the beneficiaries has been olive oil, with a wealth of consumers trading up to virgin and extra virgin olive oils, which have been proven to help the fight against heart disease thanks to the high level of antioxidant plant compounds found in virgin olive oil. In general, olive oil contains monounsaturated fat, which is a healthier alternative to the saturated fat found in animal products, while extra virgin olive oil contains essential acids that cannot be produced by our own bodies, as well as helping to assimilate vitamins A, D and K and aiding bile, liver and intestinal functions.

One of the most traded products worldwide, olive oil is growing in popularity all the time, with both consumption and production levels steadily increasing. Indeed, through-

54

out most of Europe olive oil is now a ‘mature’ product: however, in Ireland the market for olive oil is far from mature, with plenty of room for further growth.

Shamrock Foods Since its inception in 1958, Roma prides itself on being the leading Italian ingredient brand in the Irish marketplace, renowned for its high product quality and continuous innovation. The Roma Olive Oil portfolio is no exception to this innovation.

The new look Roma The Roma Olive Oil portfolio is renowned for its Organic Extra Virgin Olive high product quality and continuous innovation.

Oil re-affirms Roma’s commitment to providing high quality organic products. Free from including olive oils, olives, capers, fertilisers and chemical plant protecwine vinegars, sea salt, vegetables, tion, the food gives the modern consaffron and most recently, a selection sumer the opportunity to have a natuof Spanish wines. ral product which doesn’t compromise With striking red caps and bottleon taste. neck films, Don Carlos Olive Oils Roma Stir Fry Oils are also an have a large on-shelf impact, while exciting element of the Roma range clear on-pack communication makes it and complement the other products easier for consumers to choose the in the brand’s portfolio. The range right product for their needs. includes three unique variants – The Don Carlos range of olive oils Chinese, Thai, and Lemon Grass – which promise to add flavour and zest to any stir fry dish.

Don Carlos The Don Carlos brand, from Boyne Valley Group, was launched onto the Irish market in 1990 and has long been synonymous with providing the authentic products and flavours of Spain,

With striking red caps and bottle-neck films, Don Carlos Olive Oils have a large on-shelf impact.

April09Oils

include Pure Olive Oil, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Mild & Light Olive Oil, and has recently been expanded to include three exciting new variants; Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Extra Virgin Olive Oil enriched with Omega 3 and Extra Virgin Olive Oil enriched with vitamins.

Batchelors/Beck Smith Flora Sunflower Oil, Crisp ’n Dry, Olivio and Mazola are leading brands of cooking oils, distributed

by Batchelors/Beck Smith to the The Monini range of oils has grown substantially, including Olive Oil, ‘GranFruttato’ Extra Virgin olive oil, ‘Classico’ Extra Virgin, Grapeseed oil, the seasonal ‘Il Monello’ Extra Virgin olive oil, and Balsamic Vinegar.

spectrum of quality cooking oils. By offering attractive in-store consumer promotions (25% Extra Fill) and a range of pack sizes (1L, 2L), there is something to suit all households.

BR Foods

Flora Sunflower Oil, Crisp ’n Dry, Olivio, Mazola, Cookeen and Spry Crisp ‘n Dry Solids: the high performing oils and fats range from Batchelors/Beck Smith.

Monini, an authentic Italian olive oil brand, started production in 1920, focusing on extra virgin olive oil.

Today, the company produces almost 30m litres of olive oil per year.

Following family tradition, Zefferino Monini still personally tastes each oil and selects only the best to ensure consistent quality. This dedication and attention to detail has ensured that Monini has retained its first class rating both in Italy and worldwide.

Over the years, the Monini range of oils in Ireland, distributed

by BR Foods, has grown substantially, and now includes Olive Oil, ‘GranFruttato’ Extra Virgin olive oil, ‘Classico’ Extra Virgin, Grapeseed oil, the seasonal ‘Il Monello’ Extra Virgin olive oil, and Balsamic Vinegar, catering for consumers’ every possible requirement.

This year, Monini will continue to bring premium quality oils to Irish consumers, supporting them with a variety of promotions, extra fills, and banded packs over the summer period.

Irish Market. Cookeen and Spry Crisp ‘n Dry Solids are two other Febvre & Co. Ltd household favourites which feature The Pons family has been harvesting in this portfolio. olive trees since 1945, following Flora sunflower oil is a tradition that half a century high in polyunsaturates and later allows us to enjoy their low in saturates. It is ideal magnificent Romulo Olive Oils, for frying, roasting and bastdistributed in Ireland by ing. Crisp ‘n Dry vegetable oil Febvre & Co. Ltd. is specially blended to ensure Romulo Olive Oil is food stays crisp and dry after obtained exclusively from the cooking. It is commonly used superb Arbequina and for shallow and deep frying.

Cornicobra varieties, which Olivio vegetable oil is refined are native to the North of olive and virgin olive oil, ideSpain. Both olive varieties proal for salad dressings and duce noble, full-bodied, sweet shallow frying. Mazola is a and pleasantly fruity oil. pure corn oil which is also Romulo Spanish Extra Virgin high in polyunsaturates.

Olive Oil and Romulo Spanish Cookeen and Spry Crisp Pure Olive Oil are available in ‘n Dry chilled solid fats can 50cl, 1 Litre and 5 Litre. be used for shallow frying but Romulo Organic Extra Virgin are predominantly used in Olive Oil is available in 50cl, baking and pastry making. while a range of flavoured Market requirements are Exta Virgin oils are available The top quality Romulo Olive Oils, distributed in Ireland met and exceeded with this in 25cl bottles.

by Febvre & Co. Ltd. 55

RN

April09On

The Vine

Chilean Wine - Growing on the Irish Wine Market Jean Smullen examines the performance of Chilean wines in Ireland, which are considered sociable and good value for money by Irish consumers.

After

many years of sustained growth, the market for wine in Ireland has flattened out.

Revenue returns figures show that to December 2008, case sales of wine for the Irish wine market in 2008 fell from a high of 8.2m cases to 7.9m.

The story for Chile has been slightly more positive. Chile maintained its market share of second place overall in terms of volume sales, with 22.6% of the total Irish wine market of 7.9m cases. The latest Wines of Chile MAT export figures for sales of bottled wine to Ireland show an increase of 7% in volume sales and 16% in value sales during 2008, with average prices also increasing by 8.16%. All of which augurs well for the retailer, as it shows that Chilean wine is selling well and is an attractive option for the wine consumer (Source: Wine Board/Wines of Chile March 2009).

Focus on Value Now more than ever, the retail trade in Ireland must remain focused on giving the customer the best value possible and this is where Chilean wine comes into its own. The results of a 2008 Market Intelligence survey commissioned by Wines of Chile show that Chilean wines emphatically deliver in this respect. The survey showed that: •

56

Nearly 50% of Irish regular wine consumers drink Chilean wines regularly.

Mountains and the Pacific Ocean.

Chile resonates positively with Rich in geographic and climatic many consumers as the source diversity, Chile encompasses the country for informal consuming Atacama Desert (the driest in the occasions in both off- and onworld), a fertile Central Valley, a trade settings.

Lake District, the wilds of • Chile has the highest base of Patagonia, and the ice-filled won"regular drinkers" of any source ders of the Antarctic region. country: nearly half of Irish conChile has something special. As a sumers are regular Chilean wine result of decades of sustained growth, drinkers.

Chile enjoys a diverse economy based • Chilean wine is strongly associon mining, forestry, agriculture, fishated with good value, reasonably ing, tourism... and wine, of course! priced wines. Overall Chileans are considered “sociable wines” with good value New Rioja from Torres for money.

THE Findlater Wine & Spirit Group have announced the introduction of the latest • Chile does very offering from Torres. The Torres family surwell in the under name has been linked with wine for more €9 market. than three centuries and this is the first ever offering of a Rioja which has been given the name Ibéricos, taking its Evolving name from the Iberian Peninsula, a Winemaking In the last 10 years, land of lonely oaks and ancient vinewinemaking in Chile yards.

This new wine, 2006 Ibéricos has evolved and developed. The wine Crianza is made from 100% Tempranillo. The wine is aged for 12 buyer is becoming months in American and French oak more and more and a further six months in bottle. It aware that Chile is a classic Rioja wine with dark forest delivers in terms of fruits and toasted wood aromas. This value and their is a very fine addition to the Torres price/quality ratio. range of wines, which are produced in Chile is squeezed the Mediterranean Penedes region. into a narrow strip For more information contact of landscape more Findlater Wine & Spirit Group Tel: than 4,300km long Ibéricos, the (01) 4047387. Email: ngrundy@findand an average of new Rioja from laterws.ie just 177km wide Torres. between the Andes •

April09On

The first wine grapes arrived in Chile in the early 1500s with the Spanish missionaries, but despite its nearly 500 years of existence, Chile’s wine industry is fresh, young and evolving to meet the needs of today’s everdemanding world markets.

In recent years, Chilean producers have invested heavily in their wine industry, which means new equipment, new Cono Sur, one wineries, new of the fastest growing Chilean grape varieties brands on the Irish in new market. regions, smart packaging, new brands and their own system of protected regional names, which is similar to a European AOC law. The Irish consumer, therefore, feels safe with Chilean wines and they are starting to recognise that as well as offering value, modern Chilean wine now offers very good quality at a competitive price, which is very important in the current market conditions.

The Vine

DIARY DATES

Searson’s Wine Merchants Tasting

May 12-14 London International Wine Trade Fair, Excel London www.londonwinefair.com

SEARSON’S Wine Merchants, one of Ireland's oldest and most prestigious independent wine suppliers, held their portfolio tasting recently and unveiled their radical volume discount structure, which offers very good margins to the Irish wine trade.

The new volume discount structure offers trade customers discounts of up to 27% on volume orders, and shows that like many other companies, Searsons is determined to meet the demand of the difficult trading conditions.

The portfolio tasting included over 50 wine brands from unique, award winning wineries across the globe. Charles Searson told RETAIL NEWS, "In today's Irish wine trade and these challenging trading conditions, we believe our customers need a wine offering that is sharp and is the best for them and their consumers. Our approach may be considered "ballsy" but at Searsons, we believe in working with open hands and delivering great wines with even greater margins."

The following are some of the wines which featured at the tasting which offer very good value. One which immediately impressed me came from Piedmonte, a region in the North of Italy. The 2008 Araldica Sec, made from the Moscado grape (Muscat), has a zesty perfumed nose: light and zesty, it had tons of flavour and is very appealing to the novice wine consumer or also as a party wine. From Spain, I particularly enjoyed a range of new wines from Bodega Borsao, based in Navarra. The 2007 Campo Castillo offers great value for money and this range, which includes the 2007 Campo Castillor Garnacha Campo de Borja and the 2007 Tres Pico Campo de Borja, really stood out. They offer old world style with new world flair and good value for money. Searson’s also have a comprehensive range of Australian wine and their Cedar Creek Wines from South East Australia also worth a look. Their South African range are also merits a mention: the Springfield Estate in Robertson is world class and the iconic 2008 Life From Stone Sauvignon Blanc is a show-stopper.

For more information, contact Searson’s Wine Merchants, Monkstown Crescent, Co Dublin. Tel: (01) 2800405. Email: orders@searsons.com

May 18 Wine Australia Tasting, Croke Park Contact: John McDonnell Tel: (065) 7077264 Email: john.mcdonnell @wineaustralia.com June 3 New Zealand 2009 New Release Tasting, Fallon & Byrne.

Contact: Charlotte Boyd, New Zealand Wine Growers.

Tel: + 44 207 9738079 Email: charlotte@winzuk.com or Jean Smullen Tel: 086 8168468 Email: jean@jeansmullen.com

In March 2009, 32 Chilean wineries came to Dublin to take part in the 2009 Trade Fair and to show their range of wines. A focus tasting, which highlighted the regionality of Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc from the cool climate regions, was one of the highlights of the show.

Participating wineries included: Amayna, Anakena, Apaltagua, Arboleda, Canepa, Carmen, Casa Silva, Casa Tamaya, Casas Del Bosque, Chilean Wines Wine-producing Company, Concha Y Toro, Valleys Cono Sur, De Martino, From north to south, there Errazuriz, Indomita, are 14 main wine-producing Loma Larga, Miguel valleys. They are: Torres, Montes, Elqui, Limari Valley, Montgras, Odfjell, Santa Choapa, Aconcagua, Alicia, Santa Carolina, Casablanca, San Antonio, Santa Rita, Terra Andino, Maipo, Rapael (incorporatTarapaca, Terramater, ing Cachapoal and Undurraga, Valdivieso, Colchagua), Curico, Caliterra, from Vina Los Boldos, Vina Maule, Itata, Bio Bio and Febvre & Co. Ltd, Rucahue, Vina the most southerly, one of the new Ventisquero and generation of Malleco Valley, located Chilean wines.

Vistamar.

700km from Santiago.

57

April09Fresh

Dairy Products

The Dairy Revolution The fresh dairy products market, made up of yogurts, fromage frais, yogurt drinks and chilled desserts, continues to grow, thanks primarily to new product development.

It

is estimated that the fresh dairy products market has grown by a massive 245% since just 12 years ago, primarily through the development of the pro-biotic and pre-biotic sectors.

Indulgence, health and convenience are driving the market, with new product development tending to concentrate on new flavour combinations and healthy ingredients, such as the phenomenal increase in products with probiotic or gut-friendly properties. Indeed, growth throughout the category is fuelled by added value products with functional properties and ultra-premium offerings.

The fresh dairy products sector, including yogurts, fromage frais and yogurt drinks, is one of the biggest food categories in Ireland, with yogurts in particular enjoying 93% household penetration throughout the country. Together,

58

With its exclusive probiotic culture L.casei Imunitass, Danone Actimel is scientifically proven to help strengthen the body’s natural defences.

yogurts and yogurt drinks account for 79% of the market.

Danone Danone Actimel continues to consolidate its position as the number one brand in yogurt [Fresh Dairy Products], claiming 16.3% of the total market (Source: ACNielsen, Feb. 22, 2009). With its exclusive probiotic culture L.casei Imunitass, Danone Actimel is scientifically proven to help strengthen the body’s natural defences.

Danone Actimel is available in 4, 8 and 12-packs, and in a range of 11 delicious flavours, with its most recent launch of Strawberry & Banana 12-pack proving to be a particularly popular flavour with children. The newly designed packs are now available nationwide.

Also from Danone, Activia continues to be one of the fastest growing brands in the fresh dairy products sector, with sales growing at 13%, while the brand claims 11% of the total category (Source: ACNielsen, Feb. 22, 2009).

Danone Activia contains the unique culture Bifidus ActiRegularis and is scientifically proven to help improve slower digestive transit.

In 2009, Danone Activia will continue to drive category innovation by adding a touch of luxury to its range of functional yogurts with a delicious new dessert, Danone Activia Intensely Creamy. Activia Intensely Creamy is supported by a heavy media campaign. The new format is driving volumes and incremental sales.

Danone Activia Intensely Creamy has been developed to meet the needs of health conscious people looking for an everyday indulgence. With just 3% fat and only 118 calories per pot, Danone Activia Intensely Creamy not only presents a new option for a guilt-free and delicious dessert, but also offers the digestive health benefits associated with Danone Activia yogurts.

Petits Filous New Danone Activia Intensely Creamy: adding luxury to the sector.

Made in Co. Wexford with 100% natural ingredients, Petits

April09Fresh

Filous fromage frais from Yoplait has been a family favourite in Ireland for over 20 years.

Leading the kids’ yogurt market, claiming a 60% market share, Yoplait Petits Filous has invested in a heavyweight and ambitious marketing campaign, with national advertising across television, press and radio. Playing on the double meaning of natural with its ‘What could be more natural?’ headline, the campaign is all about celebrating those little memorable moments in a little rascal’s daily life. It will also be significantly leveraged below the line through PR and on-pack activity.

Made with real fruit purée and Irish milk, Petits Filous offers a nutritionally-balanced source of protein and minerals, such as calcium, essential for young children’s growth. Easy to consume with no solid pieces, Petits Filous, the French for ‘Little Rascals’, is ideal for growing babies and a perfect solution for weaning mothers, as well as being ideal for lunchboxes.

Petits Filous fromage frais from Yoplait has been a family favourite in Ireland for over 20 years.

Nestlé The number three manufacturer for the kids dairy sector, Nestlé Munch Bunch has a very strong dairy range for all consumption occasions. With its deliciously fruity range of Fromage Frais, Whole Milk Yogurts, Drinks and fun Squashums, Munch Bunch is the expert in meeting the needs of growing kids: all products contain calcium for strong bones, real fruit puree and no added preservatives nor artificial colours.

Munch Bunch Drinky+ is fun, with its on-the-go format (6x90g), and comes in strawberry or banana flavour. It contains Omega 3 and

Dairy Products

Finally, Nestlé have relaunched their Fromage Frais and dairy Snack under the very popular High School Musical license since January 2009 and the brand has already seen a strong sales performance.

Yakult

Munch Bunch Drinky+ contains Omega 3 and lactobacillus fortis for healthy tummies, so it’s good news for parents.

lactobacillus fortis for healthy tummies, so it’s good news for parents, while the fact that Munch Bunch Drinky+ is heavily supported with promotions means that it provides additional sales opportunities for retailers.

Munch Bunch is continuing to capitalise on its Squashums range with the introduction of new Munch Bunch Blackberry. Packed in a unique fruit shape and sold in a fruit-like net, Squashums is a healthy yogurt, perfect for the lunch box.

Munch Bunch is also improving its packaging with a new character on its Fromage Frais and Yogurt products, and its packaging is now easier to read across the range.

Nestlé have relaunched their dairy Snack under the very popular High School Musical license since January 2009 and the brand has already seen a strong sales performance.

Consumers are becoming increasingly aware that the key to strengthening our bodies against attack lies within our immune system – a network of cells, tissues and organs that protect us against germs and harmful micro-organisms. The majority of this system lies within our gut, so looking after your digestive system with diet, exercise and a healthy lifestyle is vital for stronger natural defences. A well functioning digestive system is absolutely essential to overall health. A daily probiotic such as Yakult provides an effective way to keep the gut healthy.

Yakult keeps harmful microorganisms in check and encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria, which aid the body’s natural defences.

Developed over 70 years ago by Japanese scientist, Dr Shirota, today Yakult is the global leader in probiotics. Available in two variants – Yakult and Yakult Light – the fermented, probiotic drink keeps harmful micro-organisms in check and encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria, which aid the body’s natural defences. Consumed daily by 25 million people in 31 countries, Yakult is virtually fat free, completely gluten free and just 48 kcals (27.3 kcals in Yakult Light).

59

April09Personal

Care

Groomed For Success Looking good is still important to Irish consumers, despite the recession, as the continued development of the personal care sector proves.

Consumers

are becoming increasingly health and beauty conscious although not necessarily at the same time – in fact there is evidence that consumers are seeing themselves as either heath or beauty conscious and therefore, have very different needs. So, just as skin care products are tailored to different types of skin, the same is beginning to be expected of other products in the personal care sector, such as hair care and even oral hygiene.

The personal care market in Ireland has shown good growth over the last few years. The market is driven by a number of factors: our ageing population has boosted growth in some sectors; the growth of the male grooming area has been important; the development of premium products has also been strong.

Global manufacturers and brands dominate across the entire personal care spectrum, from hair care to oral care, male toiletries and skincare.

The market for hair care in Ireland, the strongest sector by value, increased between 2002-2007, at an average annual rate of 2.8%, with Procter & Gample, Unilever and L’Oreal the dominant brands. The skin care sector showed growth of 3.7% per year in the 60

Colgate Total Advanced Clean provides consumers with long-lasting antibacterial protection.

ACNielsen, Scantrack Mults, MAT 2001-2006 period, while the personal Feb. 22, 2009). hygiene market, including soap, deodorants and bath/shower products, grew by 1.8% per annum during the Colgate same time-frame.

Colgate is still the market leader in Meanwhile, the oral hygiene sector oral care, achieving 53.6% value share grew at an average rate of 4.3% through innovation and ongoing media between 2001 and 2006, with investment (Source: ACNielsen, GlaxoSmithKline, ColgateScantrack Mults, MAT Feb. 22, Palmolive and Procter & 2009).

Gample the leading brands.

Some key The oral care market in products withIreland is now worth over in the Colgate €49m and accounts for 15% of total Health & Beauty spend. It is delivering consistent sales despite the overall downturn in the economy (Source: ACNielsen Total Scantrack ROI (Mults, GRP, Forecourts) H&B ex baby MAT, Dec. 8, 2008).

Oral care is made up of four distinct categories – Toothpaste, Toothbrushes, Mouthrinse and Other Dental Care. Toothpaste is the largest of these categories worth Colgate Plax Ice and Alcohol Free, two of the latest €22.4m (Source: additions to the Colgate product range.

April09Personal

Care

reduce more plaque than any the oral care sector. The good news for range include Colgate Total and other everyday use mouthwash. retailers is that there is still huge Colgate Sensitive. The Colgate The latest addition to the scope for growth within this sector.

Total sub-brand is the most popurange is Softmint Sensation Top-of-the-range, technologically lar toothpaste in Ireland, with over Listerine which has all the advanced toothbrushes, which com17% value share. Colgate Total germ fighting ability synprise innovative features and superior is the only toothpaste clinionymous with the cleaning power, not only deliver a cally proven to provide Listerine brand but with superior clean, but just as importantly, long-lasting anti-bacterial a less intense milder help users to brush better. Entry-levelprotection. Its unique forflavour, making it even priced products are also a crucial catemula of triclosan plus easier to use. gory component to help drive volume copolymer provides a susListerine is also celesales, recruiting new users from the tained action anti-bacterial brating the launch of manual toothbrush market by providsystem.

Listerine Smart Rinse, ing an affordable introductory step to Colgate Sensitive not which is an alcohol and trial the benefits of rechargeable only provides proven prosugar free daily use brushing. tection against the pain of mouthwash, specially Oral-B is renowned for its innovasensitive teeth but also has formulated for children tion and clinically tested rechargeable a great taste. The range aged 6-12. With its easybrushes. also includes Colgate and use dosing device, it Launched in September 2007, Sensitive Multi Protection, makes teeth Oral-B Triumph with Colgate Sensitive plus cleaning interSmartGuide is the most stylish, Whitening and Colgate esting and technologically advanced, Sensitive Enamel Protect motivating – rechargeable toothbrush on the and is supported by TV Softmint Sensation attracting and market. It is the first rechargeand outdoor advertising.

Listerine has all the germ able brush system that combines The mouthrinse cate- fighting ability synonymous tinting oral with the Listerine brand debris, showa toothbrush with clinically gory is worth over €8.5m but with a less intense ing children proven outstanding cleaning and continues to deliver milder flavour, making it the proof in capabilities, with a separate strong growth at 11.9% even easier to use. the sink. It wireless display unit that (Source: ACNielsen Total also contains fluoride, encourages the consumer to Scantrack ROI (Mults, GRP, which strengthens adopt good brushing habits Forecourts) H&B ex baby MAT, teeth and reduces cavusing a visual display of the Dec. 8, 2008). ities by up to 40% mouth.

Colgate Plax has been develmore than brushing The Oral-B Professional Care oped and clinically tested by denalone (Source: Driscoll range clearly outlines each of the tists. In 2009, Colgate added two WS et al. JADA. brushes’ features and benefits new variants to the existing 1982; 105; 1010via on-pack illustrations. This product range: Plax Ice & 1013). Smart allows consumers to choose the Alcohol Free.

Rinse is availbrush that best suits their needs able now in two - from sensitive brushing to Listerine great flavours, whitening or simply a truly thorMouthwash continues to be Mild Mind and ough mouth clean. one of the fastest growing Berry.

The Oral-B Vitality range categories in health & beaucurrently consists of Oral-B ty. Listerine is leading the Vitality ProWhite, DualClean, way, growing at 18% verses Oral-B Precision Clean, Sensitive Clean 2007, making it the number Consumer purand Sonic brush models. one brand in Ireland with a chasing trends Each toothbrush is designed massive 67% market share are moving to provide unique benefits to (Source: ACNielsen, Dec. towards users, based on extensive 28, 2008). rechargeable research into oral-care needs The Listerine range of products as and aims to make high-end-benessential oil mouthwashes they become efit rechargeable tooth brushare the only mouthwash- Listerine Smart Rinse is an increasingly Oral-B CrossAction alcohol and sugar free ing more accessible to cones to be accredited by the accessible Complete boasts daily use mouthwash, sumers.

Irish Dental Association both in seven individual specially formulated for While rechargeable toothand are clinically proven terms of dis- oral health benefits, children which help to brushes are, at present, to kill 99.9% of bad bactetribution improve the unlikely to ever negate the ria (Source: Project Ocean – Global and price points, and conwellbeing of the need to stock manual toothListerine Research 2006) and to tinue to drive the value of whole mouth.

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brushes, consumers are often surprised at the reasonable cost of a rechargeable toothbrush, allowing all retailers to tap into the rechargeable toothbrush market and the profits it presents.

Within the manual toothbrush market, Oral-B has long been a brand synonymous with producing the highest quality toothbrushes, trusted by consumers and recommended by dentists.

Oral-B’s manual range includes: Oral-B Advantage, which has been experiencing growth at a rate of 21%, as consumers look for quality solutions for their oral health at an acceptable price; Oral-B Pulsar, a unique manual toothbrush with a pulse, which improves performance by providing an incredible sensory experience; and Oral-B CrossAction Complete, which boasts seven individual oral health benefits, which help to improve the wellbeing of the whole mouth. These benefits are: removes up to 90% of hard-to-reach plaque; helps improve gum health in four weeks; cleans along the gum line up to 55% better; polishes away surface stains; removes odour-causing tongue germs; stimulates gums; and it’s gentle on teeth and gums.

The Oral-B Stages range of toothbrushes have been designed specifically for children. Gone are the days when the children’s toothbrush category took a ‘one size fits all’ approach to brushing, with kids’ brushes often just being smaller versions of adult products. Oral-B Stages are designed to meet kids’ special needs at different stages of their development. In order to keep kids interested in their oral hygiene and make tooth brushing fun, Oral-B Stages ensure the brushes and paste are a desirable commodity in themselves, with regularly refreshed character licensing.

Wilkinson Sword Wilkinson Sword has recently scored a notable coup in the area of male toiletries with the news that the popular Quattro Titanium Precision has won the prestigious Men’s Grooming Product of the Year Award.

Wilkinson Sword’s Quattro Titanium Precision was voted Product of the Year in the Men’s Grooming 62

Product category of Consumer Survey of Production Innovation 2009 (Survey of 12,026 people by TNS). The Quattro Titanium Precision has had a massive impact on the male grooming market since its hugely successful launch in January 2008, thanks to its unique capabilities to shave, trim and edge all in one portable and compact tool.

The Titanium Precision features four lightweight titanium blades for a close shave with minimum irritation.

Its neat, waterproof stainless steel trimmer is tucked away on the razor’s tail: the comb has four adjustable trimming levels that trim sideburns and beards at different lengths.

Finally, its super-sharp titanium coated edging blade allows the user to sculpt facial hair with precision.

Wilkinson Sword’s hugely popular Quattro Titanium Precision won the prestigious Men’s Grooming Product of the Year Award for 2009.

BIC BIC offers a wide range of single, twin and triple blade shavers attractively designed and packaged to suit lifestyle, budget, gender and closeness of shave required, and their latest

Designed for sensitive skin, BIC ecolutions delivers a close and precise shave, while its lubricating strip with aloe and vitamin E provides optimal comfort.

innovation really boosts their green credentials.

After five years of extensive research, BIC have launched their first ever branded bioplastic shaver, BIC ecolutions. A real technological innovation, BIC has succeeded in developing a manufacturing process that converts corn, a renewable resource, into a resistant plastic.

Designed for sensitive skin, BIC ecolutions delivers a close and precise shave, while its lubricating strip with aloe and vitamin E provides optimal comfort.

As a part of BIC’s eco-design process, its packaging has been reduced to a minimum and is made from 100% recycled bleach-free cardboard, coloured with inks made from vegetable based pigments. Vegetable origin pigments also give the shaver its distinctive green colour.

Statistics show that 75% of consumers are ready to buy environmentally friendly products. However, 64% don’t because they perceive green to be too expensive and not widely available. BIC hopes to revolutionise the market by offering its BIC ecolutions triple blade shaver at an affordable price point, thus making it available for mass market distribution.

“Now, more than ever, consumers expect large companies to be committed to making a positive impact on the environment and to begin to think

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about the future of our planet,” noted Yolande de Trogoff, Marketing Manager for shavers at BIC. “The BIC ecolutions triple blade shaver is a huge step towards reducing our CO2 footprint without compromising product quality. We have also formed a partnership with carbon offsetting specialist Climat Mundi, whose programme will help us offset the residual CO2 emissions of the BIC ecolutions shaver.”

Taking into account raw material, production, distribution, end of life and packaging, the BIC ecolutions shaver will equal an emission which is 16g CO2 less than an equivalent 3blade shaver made of regular oil-based plastic.

Palmolive The Palmolive brand continues to grow in body care, covering washes (shower gel, bath additive, liquid hand soap & bar soap), deodorant, hair care and shave foams and gels.

In the liquid hand soap category, Palmolive claims market leadership with 28.6% value share (Source:

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Palmolive Soft & Gentle continues to perform extremely well in the female antiperspirant deodorants sector.

ACNielsen Scantrack Multiples – Value, MAT, Feb. 22, 2009) and continues to be a consistent seller for customers across retail formats.

With the shower gel market very stable for the full year in 2008, Palmolive is a strong number two with 12% share (Source: ACNielsen Scantrack Multiples – Value, MAT, Feb. 22, 2009) and will be adding to base sales with strong NPD and support plans in the second half of the year.

Palmolive Soft & Gentle continues to be a strong number two with 16.4%

Odlums Pancake Party Campaign SCHOOLS, businesses and homes throughout the country were invited to host a pancake party in aid of a ‘flipping fantastic’ cause as the 4th Annual Odlums National Pancake Party in aid of the National Children’s Hospital ran from February 20-24. A firm date on many people’s calendars, this year’s Odlums Pancake Party has far surpassed its target of 700 parties.

The team at the National Children’s Hospital, Tallaght relies on fundraising activity such as the Odlums Pancake Party to ensure they can continue to provide vital equipment and small comforts for patients and their families.

National coverage with Today FM, Ireland AM and The Irish Daily Star among others helped support this most worthy of causes. The ball has already been set in motion for 2010 with a special 5th year anniversary to take place!

share of female anti-perspirant deodorants (Source: ACNielsen Scantrack Multiples, MAT, Feb. 22, 2009, value share of deodorants excluding body spray), with growth fuelled by the success of Soft & Gentle roll-ons and Eden.

Palmolive washes and deodorants are must-stock items as shoppers across Ireland continue to seek them out because of their trusted quality, natural ingredients and good value for money. The Palmolive brand is supported with ongoing national advertising and other promotional activities.

Winston: The Eagle Has Landed WINSTON, an international range of quality cigarettes for a cosmopolitan society, has been launched on the Irish tobacco market by Gallaher Ireland, a member of the JTI Group. The Winston range, priced competitively, is available in Winston Red and Winston Blue. Packaged with a distinctive “eagle” emblem, Winston is a modern sophisticated brand that adds an exciting element to the tobacco category.

Winston has a strong international heritage. It was first launched in 1954 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and is now present in over 80 markets worldwide, making it the world’s number two cigarette brand. Winston is a modern brand which is likely to be popular with adult smokers as it has taste, quality and style at an accessible price.

Ciara O’Grady of NCHT with Peter Duffy, Catherine Leyden and Ollie the Owl of Odlums.

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Shelf Life RESULTS of a recent Cow & Gate survey show toddler Iron deficiency remains a key concern for Irish parents. Four out of five Irish toddlers aged between one and three are not meeting the Irish Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for Iron of 8mg/day. The survey also revealed that the majority of toddlers not meeting RDA for Iron were not taking iron fortified milks. In reaction to these results and as part of their ongoing Feeding For Life programme, Cow & Gate have created an Iron Calculator, which will now make it easier for parents to check their toddlers’ iron intake, at www.feedingforlife.ie.

KLEENEX has taken to the psychotherapist’s couch and is sponsoring 3e TV’s daily early evening drama series ‘In Treatment’. This US made series follows psychotherapist, Dr. Weston, played by Gabriel Byrne, in his daily sessions with patients, which results in his own need for therapy. The series also speaks clearly to an ongoing campaign by Kleenex ‘Let it Out’ which interacts with consumers in times and places that are emotionally significant. Through this innovative sponsorship, Kleenex hopes it can get the nation talking and releasing emotions. Twink is pictured at the launch of Kleenex’s ‘Let It Out’ campaign.

SYSCO Corporation has acquired Pallas Foods Limited, a leading foodservice distributor based in Newcastle West, Ireland. “By joining Sysco, we have opened up access to a large number of quality assured products for our customers,” said Tim Geary, Pallas Foods founder.

“This alignment positions our company for long-term growth.”

THE first new season Irish strawberries went on sale in SuperValu at the start of April.

SuperValu expects to sell €4.2m of fresh strawberry sales in 2009. “At SuperValu, we are committed to supporting local Irish producers and growers and we are delighted to increase, once again, the amount of fresh Irish strawberries that are available to Irish consumers to 80% of our total sales,” noted Donal Horgan, Managing Director, SuperValu.

‘TURN Your Sales Force into Profit Heroes’ is the title of a new book by Peter Brook, formerly of Diageo and co-founder of REL Sales Consulting, which unleashes intelligent ways to breed new life into sales management, delivering secrets for unlocking the inner strength of sales teams. Paul S. Walsh, CEO of Diageo, close friend and associate of Brook, wrote the foreword for the book and praises it as “timely, relevant and thought provoking”.

TESCO Ireland have introduced € for £ price parity on all clothing products, with Irish customers now paying the sterling price in euro on all Tesco’s 7,500 clothing lines. The announcement is part of a €20m investment and will mean that all clothes and fashion items will now be 7% cheaper than in the UK or Northern Ireland (at current exchange rate levels).

RETAIL Excellence Ireland has announced the appointment of Dublin-based Property Consultants GVA Donal O’Buachalla as the sole agent to handle rental agreements on behalf of 1,500 of its retail member-stores across the country.

CONGRATULATIONS to Coole Swan, which was named Best of Show Liqueur 2009 at the World Spirit Competition, San Francisco 2009, the first time a cream liqueur has lifted this top award.

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JOHN Gormley TD, Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, and Donal Horgan, Managing Director of SuperValu, officially announced details of the 2009 National TidyTowns Competition.

The competition, which is one of the worlds longest running environmental initiatives, is now in its 51st year and continues to evolve to meet a changing Ireland. This year, for the first time, a special Climate Change award is being included in the structure of the competition to facilitate community groups to investigate their carbon footprint and use this to raise awareness of the climate change issue at a local level.

TASTE of Dublin, the capital’s most exciting outdoor food and drink festival, is gearing up for its 4th year from June 11-14. With 20 of the capital's top restaurants, Michelin star chefs, and over 30,000 anticipated visitors, the glorious surroundings of the Iveagh Gardens will be the outdoor restaurant this summer. In total over 100 carefully selected food and drink exhibitors will be showcasing their products at Taste of Dublin, giving visitors the opportunity to sample the finest produce from all over Ireland. For more information and tickets, see www.tastefestivals.ie.

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