Retail News September 2009 by Retail News

September 2009

+V `V\ ZLSS VY PU[LUK [V ZLSS [VIHJJV WYVK\J[Z I` YL[HPS& @V\ T\Z[ YLNPZ[LY ^P[O [OL 6MMPJL VM ;VIHJJV *VU[YVS Section 37 of the Public Health (Tobacco) Acts, 2002 and 2004, provides for the establishment and maintenance by the Ofﬁce of Tobacco Control of a register of all persons who carry on in whole or part the business of selling tobacco products by retail. What does this mean for Retailers?

If you sell or intend to sell tobacco products by retail whether over the counter or from a selfservice vending machine you must register with the Ofﬁce of Tobacco Control (OTC).

A person who, prior to 1 July 2009, carries on the business of selling tobacco products by retail must apply to register with the OTC between 1 July and 1 October 2009.

A person who proposes to commence the business of selling tobacco products by retail from 1 July 2009 must register with the OTC before they can sell tobacco products.

In relation to self-service vending machines, both the owner of the self-service vending machine(s) and the holder of a license for the sale of alcohol for a licensed premises or the person entered in the register of clubs in which the machine is located must register. Tobacco products can only be sold when both parties have registered and are entered on the register.

To register online visit: www.tobaccoregister.ie or lo-call 1890 333 100 To keep the register up to date you are required to notify the OTC of any change in particulars.

All retailers wishing to sell tobacco products must register with the OTC. It’s the law.

Download “Guidance for those selling Tobacco Products” at www.tobaccoregister.ie

September09Contents

■ inside view

SHOP 2009 is Go Improving your bottom line has never been more important for the retail sector, and so SHOP 2009, which takes place from September 28-30 in the RDS Simmonscount, Dublin, is shaping up to be a one-stop-shop for the best businesses in Ireland’s food, drink and retail industries. Inside this issue of RETAIL NEWS you will find not only a free registration ticket for SHOP 2009, but a nine-page preview to the three-day event, which will showcase hundreds of top exhibitors, launch innovative products and be the platform for international competitions, awards, seminars and workshops (Page 43-52). Also inside, you will find news of a new initiative which sees over 30 of Ireland’s leading food and drink brands coming together to form an independent organisation called Love Irish Food, established to promote Irish manufactured food and drink brands to consumers, in a bid to help safeguard the future of Ireland’s largest indigenous industry (Page 6). Meanwhile, we bring you news of the Tánaiste’s bid to formulate a Code of Practice for the grocery sector (Page 4), we investigate the practice of ‘Hello Money’ (Page 5) and a new marketing campaign to increase consumer understanding of the Bord Bia Quality Mark (Page 10). You will also find details of a conference addressing ‘The Future of Retailing in Ireland’ on Page 2. Elsewhere, in a jam-packed issue, retail consultant Karen Meenan helps you to get the most from your News Rack (Page 24), we find out what the Centra Council is doing to help Centra retailers in these challenging economic times (Page 28) and Daybreak launch their new food-to-go range, perfectly tailored to consumer demand and offering superb margins to retailers (Page 62).

“Over 50 years serving the Irish Kathleen Belton, Editorial & Marketing Director.

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

7 $ 5 $

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

Enjoy TEACHERS Sensibly Visit

Reproduction without written permission is strictly prohibited.

Much anticipated Conference to address:

“The Future of Retailing in Ireland” Grocery retailing is under severe pressure in Ireland with consumer pressure driving down prices, cut-throat competition among existing retailers and newer discount entrants shaking up the marketplace. Serious questions are being asked by Multiples, Symbol Groups, Independents, together with manufacturers and suppliers, about the capacity and robustness of existing retail models to see them through the existing tough times. They are all united in needing answers to the future of the industry. This is why CMG Events, Ireland’s leading B2B Event organiser, is hosting the inaugural "Future of Retailing in Ireland” Conference, taking place at the Westin Hotel Dublin on October 22nd 2009. Extensive consultation with the industry has highlighted key questions and concerns that will be addressed at this event. Questions you want addressed include: ■ What is the future outlook for margins, costs and prices? ■ How are consumer buying patterns changing? ■ How can you build loyalty in these tougher times? ■ What is the future of the discount store model? ■ How can the relationship between producers, suppliers and buyers improve? ■ Where are the flashpoints when it comes to market competition? What will make this event so important and memorable for those who attend will be the discussions and eye-opening insights that a distinguished national and international speaker panel will offer. Expert speakers from Ireland, the UK and mainland Europe are sure to provide a different yet relevant stance on retailing with plenty of fresh thinking on the challenges facing Irish retailers. What’s more, this conference is being organised so that it goes way beyond delivering a series of presentations, albeit from some of the most respected analysts in the industry. Razor sharp panel discussions,

Programme highlights ■ Beat the Downturn – come out

stronger! ■ Is the customer always right?

Healthy or Unhealthy Competition ■ How to improve efficiencies and cut

costs across the supply chain ■ IT in action - save time: boost

Senator Feargal Quinn

efficiency: improve service ■ What does the latest market

intelligence tell you about consumer buying patterns and how should you respond to and anticipate these trends Torlach Denihan, Director, Retail Ireland/IBEC

Bill Prasifka, Chief Executive, Competition Authority

■ Forecasting the economic realities

of retailing! ■ Raising capital for business

development - doing business in a credit crunch environment. ■ Improving the Relationship between

supplier, distributor and retailer Ann Fitzgerald, Chief Executive, National Consumer Agency

Tara Buckley, Director General, RGDATA

■ Panel Discussion: the Future of

Retailing in Ireland

Speakers include: ■

■

Torlach Denihan, Director, Retail Ireland/IBEC; Ann Fitzgerald, Chief Executive, National Consumer Agency Bill Prasifka, Chief Executive, Competition Authority

probing Question & Answer sessions and active delegate participation will be encouraged with the intention of addressing and advancing topics to a greater degree. There are events and then there is ‘The

■ ■ ■ ■

Peter Flanagan, MD, Principal Systems Tara Buckley, Director General, RGDATA BDO Simpson Xavier Maria Castroviejo, Global Food Retail Research Specialist, Rabobank

Future of Retailing in Ireland”. You will come away with practical business advice and quality market information. You will also have the satisfaction of adding to the retail sector knowledge pool generated by the event.

For further information, or to book your places, please contact Sarah Doolan,

CMG Events coordinator at 01 7642413 or email sarah@cmgevents.ie www.cmgevents.ie

September09Contents

Contents September 2009

News 4Code of Practice for

On The Vine 18Jean Smullen examines

Centra Council 28Centra Council

Grocery Sector on the Way? Tesco Deny Marginalising Irish Suppliers.

the big moves in wine, the advent of new EU wine regulations and some notto-be-missed trade shows over the coming weeks.

Chairman Francis McDonnell explains what the Council is doing to help Centra retailers in the current economic climate.

5Goodbye to ‘Hello Money’? Barry Group Launch New Store Format.

Shop Profile 20Alan Costello’s brand new Costcutter on Dublin’s North Strand has quickly tapped into the needs of its customer base and become an integral part of the local community.

demand and offering superb margins to retailers.

6 43

6Irish Food Giants Come Together; Tobacco Retailers Required to Register by October 1.

SHOP 2009 43SHOP 2009, which takes

7SuperValu Extend Price Cuts; Bleak Times Ahead for Retailers.

8ECR Ireland Announces New Co-Chairs; Porking Up at SuperValu.

10Avonmore Celebrates SuperCats; Increasing Understanding of Bord Bia Quality Mark; Musgrave Triathlon On Track.

place from September 28-30 in the RDS Simmonscourt, Dublin, is a melting pot of ideas for people in the food, drink and retail sectors and is the ‘one stop SHOP’ show for 2009.

Karen Meenan’s News Rack 22Incorporating deeper

Food-To-Go 62Following extensive

shelving and quad units into your magazine stand can make an immediate impact on its profitability.

market research, Daybreak has launched a superb new food-to-go range, perfectly tailored to consumer

Shelf Life 68All the latest news and gossip from the trade.

Regulars 12 Industry News 17 Drinks News 67 What’s New Sectoral Reports 30 Fuels 40 Canned Food 54 Cereals 58 Hot Beverages 64 Sauces 3

September09News

Code of Practice for Grocery Sector on the Way? MARY Coughlan TD, Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, has launched a public consultation process for a proposed Code of Practice for the groceries sector. Breda O’Brien, spokesperson for the Department, told RETAIL NEWS that the proposed Code followed a series of public debates on topics such as grocery prices and north-south differentials. “The consultation is intended to seek the view of all stakeholders, as to how best to ensure that there is transparency and a balance in the relationships between the various players in the grocery goods sector,” she said. As part of the consultation, eight key questions are asked of suppliers, retailers and consumers. These include whether a Code of Practice should be voluntary or statutory, how it might be enforced, and whether a separate ombudsman’s office should be established. The Code, however, appears more to the benefit of suppliers than retailers. The Irish Farming Association has paved the way, demanding the introduction of the principle of fair trade in the grocery sector, outlawing below cost selling, and regulating the relationship between producers, suppliers and retailers. Tara Buckley, Director General of RGDATA, said the proposed Code is probably more designed to appease sup-

Mary Coughlan TD, Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment

plier and manufacturer lobby groups and does not apply to smaller retailers. “To be honest, the independent familyowned shops don’t carry out any of those practices,” she says. “They don’t have ‘Hello Money’, or pay for shelf space, or demand money for advertising. It just doesn’t happen in the independent sector. We think it is to curb the activities of the bigger players - usually they are global players. Obviously, we will be watching it with interest to see how it all progresses.” According to Breda O’Brien, the Department’s Consultation Paper, pub-

lished in conjunction with consultation process, is intended to respect the interests of “all the players in the grocery goods sector, not least the interests of the end user, the consumer… The Code should not in any way act as an impediment to the passing-on of lower prices to the consumer.” However, whether or not a Code is introduced, the likelihood of bigger retailers signing up remains to be seen. Dunnes Stores, for example, did not sign up for the voluntary code on alcohol so are unlikely to bow to a wider code of practice. There is also the risk that it might force some retailers to buy goods overseas. “With a code of practice, there is always a concern that people won’t comply,” said Tara Buckley. “Certainly, people who run the smaller shops in this country are regulated from every angle. If something happens, there are plenty of inspectors and regulators that pop out every few days.” The Department, however, say the focus of the Tánaiste’s initiative is to provide a framework to ensure that there is a balance in the various commercial relationships within the grocery sector. Stakeholders are invited to submit their views, via the consultation paper at www.entemp.ie, before the deadline of Wednesday, September 30, 2009.

Tesco Deny Marginalising Irish Suppliers TESCO have denied they are ostracising Irish suppliers in favour of overseas ones. Tesco Ireland CEO Tony Keohane has stated that the supermarket stopped stocking 350 Irish lines as they were not selling. Those that are selling, however, will continue to be stocked. “Most suppliers are happily working with us like they always do,” he recent4

ly told the Irish Examiner. “The range of goods that we stock, particularly of Irish goods, is the same as we have always stocked and it would be crazy for us to change that. We have no intentions of changing that.”

Tesco Ireland CEO Tony Keohane.

September09News

Goodbye to ‘Hello Money’? LARGE retailers in Ireland have come under fire for subjecting suppliers to unfair demands. According to Michael Creed TD, Fine Gael Spokesperson on Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, some food suppliers are paying an annual €1m in ‘Hello Money’, a practice whereby retailers demand a payment from a supplier for advertising or for shelf

Michael Creed TD, Fine Gael Spokesperson on Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.

space, for grocery goods. During four months of this year, 10 companies were forced to pay €30m, he said, which has led to the Fine Gael Food (Fair Trade and Information) Bill 2009. “We made a guestimate that in the region of €160m is paid in what’s euphemistically described as ‘Hello Money’,” Creed told RETAIL NEWS. “It has many guises: it can be an upfront payment for the privilege of doing business; it can be a new store levy; it can be payments for joint promotional activities between the

retail outlet and individual suppliers. It has a myriad of forms. If you lump them all together, we reckon that’s the amount of money that’s being taken out of food businesses.” ‘Hello Money’, however, is something of an industry bogeyman. The practice has no precedence in Irish grocery, nor is there any hard and fast evidence of it existing today. We asked Janet McCoy, spokesperson for the Competition Authority, whether there have been any cases that she knew of. “No there are not,” she said. However, McCoy declined to comment on whether or not the Authority is conducting any investigations into ‘Hello Money’ at present. The Authority Chairman, William Prasifka, did state publicly, before a recent Joint Oireachtas Committee on Enterprise, Trade and Employment, that they had received a number of anonymous allegations about the practice. Creed, however, said he is 100% certain it exists: “I have direct evidence from food companies that have contacted me, of payments that have been made and staff that have been laid off in lieu of their obligation to pay these funds. One company, a quite well-established brand name, told me that it became a choice between their R&D staff and paying this ongoing requirement, in order to stay in business. The one common trait is the fear of God of being delisted if you put your head above the parapet and publicly complain.” Under the Competition Amendment Act of 2006, the obligation is on the aggrieved party to take proceedings against the aggressor. Creed contends that this is an unrealistic proposition in the current economic climate: a civil

Barry Group Launch New Store Format BARRY GROUP are launching a new discount warehouse format, Buy Lo, and are currently gauging consumer reaction with a store in Tralee, County Kerry. The group initially opened a store in Newbridge, County Kildare, but this closed after difficulties over planning. The format is reported to be a smaller version of a cash & carry, offering consumers fruit, veg., meat, large sachets of sauce, cleaning products, confectionery and pet food etc. Edwina Lucey, spokesperson for Barry Group, said there were “plans for quite a few more” and an official launch will be announced around four weeks after RETAIL NEWS goes to press.

case not only requires expense, but it also risks alienating a supplier from retailers. Tara Buckley, RGDATA Director General, agreed: “Let’s be honest, it’s very rare that a supplier is going to make a complaint about his biggest customer.” Nevertheless, the Competition Authority urges anyone with experience of ‘Hello Money’ to approach them. But how do they differentiate between hard

Tara Buckley, RGDATA Director General.

and fast business practices and illegalities? “Money needs to be compelled or coerced for it to be illegal,” said McCoy. “There are a number of things that need to be assessed if and when allegations come to us. Money does change hands for promotional cycles in stores, for the display of goods. That’s okay, it’s part of business practices.” Until hard evidence of ‘Hello Money’ is made public, however, it is likely to remain something of a myth. For their part, the Musgrave Group have said they do not engage in the practice and it should not be confused with price reduction initiatives. For many players in the grocery sector and wider political milieu, the fear over ‘Hello Money’ appears part of grocery’s ambiguous regulatory sector: continuing fallout after the abolishment of the Groceries Order. 5

September09News

Irish Food Giants Come Together MORE than 30 of Ireland’s leading food and drink brands have formed of a new independent organisation called Love Irish Food, established to promote Irish manufactured food and drink brands to consumers, in a bid to help safeguard the future of Ireland’s largest indigenous industry. Leading economist Jim Power was unveiled as the Chairman of the organisation. The participating brands range from some of the largest indigenouslyproduced FMCG brands to smaller artisan producers. Member brands include Barry’s Tea, Tayto, Ballygowan, Batchelors, Avonmore, Cadbury, Goodfella’s, Cully and Sully, Flahavans and Follain. Many consumers are confused as to what constitutes an Irish brand and there is considerable support for a new logo to assist in identifying Irish products. According to a recent study conducted by Love Irish Food, 84% of respondents agreed there is a strong need for a symbol that clearly indicates which brands are Irish and which are not. This research led to the development of a distinctive Love Irish Food logo, which will serve this purpose. Recent Bord Bia research indicates that consumers expect an Irish food brand to be manufactured in Ireland using Irish ingredients where available. These consumer demands are reflective of the Love Irish Food membership criteria, which under-pin the Irish credentials of participating members. The logo provides a positive sign-post and an absolute assurance to consumers that the brand carrying this symbol is above all else, a truly Irish brand with the hallmarks of quality, heritage and values synonymous with trusted Irish brands. Love Irish Food are undertaking a multi-million euro public information campaign under the theme ‘One More Makes all the Difference’ to drive recognition of this symbol and subsequently

Pictured at the launch of Love Irish Food are (second from left) Jim Power, Chairman of Love Irish Food, along with member brand representatives: Colin Gordon, CEO, Glanbia Consumer Foods Ireland; Colum O’Sullivan, Co-founder, Cully & Sully; and Kieran Rumley, Marketing Manager, Batchelors.

to achieve a change in consumer thinking and buying patterns. This is the largest campaign of its kind ever undertaken by the food and drinks industry and will involve the development of a Love Irish Food website, www.loveirishfood.ie, a dedicated PR campaign and heavyweight advertising / marketing support around the new brand. To drive awareness right through to retail level, Love Irish Food will host a three-week nationwide retail promotion from, September 27 to October 17, with great value promotions on all member brands. In addition, many participating brands will also use Love Irish Food logo on their packaging. “A considerable body of research shows that Irish consumers have a strong sense of pride in Irish brands,” said Jim Power, Chairman of Love Irish Food. “Our research demonstrates that consumers have a strong desire to support Irish brands and recognise the impact that this support can have. The aim of the Love Irish Food initiative is to

Love Irish Food Member Brands to Date: Avonmore, Yoplait, Kilmeaden, Premier, Ballygowan, Miwadi, Club Orange, Cadbury Dairymilk, Cadbury Twirl, Cadbury Flake, Cadbury TimeOut, Flahavans, Barry’s Tea, Goodfellas, Batchelors, Sqeez, Tayto, Petits Filous, YOP, CMP, Snowcream, Glenisk, Odlums Flour and Baking Products, Cully & Sully, Follain, Shellfish de la Mer, Long Life Plants, Mileevan Fine Foods, Ballymaloe Country Relish, Celtic Chocolates, The Real Irish Food Company.

harness this commitment to ultimately create a sustainable environment and future for food and drink manufacturing in Ireland”.

Tobacco Retailers Required to Register by October 1 ALL tobacco retailers are required to register with the Office of Tobacco Control (OTC) before October 1, in order to be able to continue selling tobacco. Retailers who are not registered with the OTC by October 1 will not be legally entitled to continue selling tobacco after that date. The legislation applies to both retailers selling tobacco over the counter and through vending machines. Retailers can register with the Office of Tobacco Control online at www.tobaccoregister.ie or request an application form by calling lo-call the OTC compliance line at 1890 333 100. 6

September09News

SuperValu Extend Price Cuts SUPERVALU have announced a further €30m investment to deliver even more long term price cuts to consumers, without compromising the group’s support for Irish suppliers. An additional 1,000 everyday products and brands across all ranges have been reduced significantly in all 194 independently owned SuperValu stores. This is being delivered without sacrificing SuperValu’s commitment to Irish suppliers and Irish jobs and will see the value of SuperValu’s price reductions and offers top €230m in 2009, with over 3,000 permanent price cuts in-store so far this year. For consumers this means a real saving of almost €70 on their average shop at SuperValu since the beginning of the year. “Just over six weeks ago we announced a significant number of price cuts and offers and we are now extending this even further across another 1,000 everyday products and brands,” noted Donal Horgan, Managing Director, SuperValu. “SuperValu is a

business that listens to what the Irish consumer wants and given our market share performance, which is growing ahead of our competitors, we know we are getting it right. Consumers are voting with their feet and that tells us that our mix of everyday low prices and market leading promotions is exactly what they want. “As always, these deep price cuts are

being delivered without compromising our support for Irish suppliers, brands and jobs, as has been our commitment all along. No one can match SuperValu’s credentials when it comes to supporting Irish and we will be continuing with this policy going forward.” Currently 75% of everything on SuperValu’s shelves is sourced or produced in Ireland.

Bleak Times Ahead for Retailers INDUSTRY body Retail Excellence Ireland (REI) are predicting tougher times ahead this year, with up to 75,000 job losses leading up to Christmas. “We’re not trying to be pessimistic - consumer confidence is crucial to our industry,” REI Chief Executive Officer, David Fitzsimons, told RETAIL NEWS. “But the December budget is going to be the most aggressive ever, and needed, but it’s going to kill Christmas in terms of spending. We’re going to see an increase in rates early next year as more European countries come out of recession, which will put more pressure on commercial and residential mortgage owners. It’s going to be a very challenging period.” REI recently revealed that retail sales in the second quarter of this year were down more than 16% compared to the same quarter in 2008. The findings, published in REI’s Irish Retail

Industry Performance Review Q2 2009, also revealed that average retail sales per square foot were down by 24% to €143.21, compared with the same quarter last year. The Average Transaction Value (ATV) of €47.55 is the lowest recorded since this research began more than two years ago. Also, wage cost as a percentage of sales remains on par with quarter one at 18%, compared with 16% this time last year. As part of the overall retail sector, how is grocery fairing? “We recorded grocery numbers in quarter two of the year as being -8% in April, -10% in May, and -8.6% in June.” The decline in sales, he said, tends to correspond with job losses: “If you shave 10% off the top line, it’s going to greatly affect the bottom line. We are concerned for all sectors, but if someone in the grocery market finds their busi-

ness eroding, it normally translates directly into redundancy or some type of rationalisation.” In the REI’s estimation, much of retail’s poor performance is due to the levies and charges in Ireland. On a global average, rent makes up 6.5% of sales, whereas Irish shopping centres are operating at over 20%. The question remains, then, why there has not been more failure to date in the Irish market. Fitzsimons’ response is bleak: “The answer to that question will come just prior to Christmas and certainly after Christmas. We’re going to see a lot of bad stuff happen. In grocery, you’re hearing about it. If you own a business and you can’t run it any more, the first thing you’re going to do is stop paying rent, VAT. All that happens before you eventually decide to close the door on your business.” 7

September09News

ECR Ireland Announces New Co-Chairs

James Wilson, Trading Director, Superquinn, is the new Retailer Co-Chair of ECR Ireland.

EFFICIENT Consumer Response (ECR) Ireland has announced the appointment of its new Co-Chairmen. The new Retailer Co-Chair is James Wilson, Trading Director, Superquinn, while the Supplier Co-Chair is John Casey from Allied Logistics, succeeding Tesco’s Tony Keohane and Nestlé’s Ciaran Sullivan, who both retired as Chairmen of the Association after their successful tenure. “At a time when both retailers and suppliers are facing enormous economic pressure, we believe it is more important than ever for us to focus our scarce resources on practical collaboration projects that can yield a quicker impact on both businesses,” commented James Wilson. “We very much hope to channel the ECR efforts on such activities.” ECR Ireland is a joint trade and industry body, launched in 1998 to make the food & drink sector as a whole more responsive to consumer demand and promote the removal of unnecessary costs from the supply chain.

Investing in Ireland NEW research suggests that Irish Agrifood and Beverage (IAB) companies are proving financially stable, while other sectors of the food and drink market are underperforming. The report highlights four companies in particular: C&C, up 129%; Fyffes, up 95%; Total Produce, up 75%; and Origin Enterprises, up 59%. 8

Porking Up at SuperValu SUPERVALU have signed a deal with Truly Irish Country Foods to provide rashers and sausages which are locally produced, fully traceable and 100% Irish, to their 194 independently owned stores across the country. The launch is a major milestone in the Irish pork industry, which has seen the development of the Truly Irish Pictured at the announcement of the SuperValu Truly Irish Country Foods supplier agreement, enjoying their Truly Irish Breakfast, brand by Irish pork are (l-r): SuperValu Managing Director, Donal Horgan and producers, in order Jim McGrath, Chairman, Truly Irish Country Foods. to return a better now worth €103m and €79m respecshare of the retail margin to Irish pig tively. The new brand guarantees that farmers. any consumer purchasing products Truly Irish Country Foods is the from the range will get a 100% probrand of the North South Pig Company duced Irish product which is Bord Bia Ltd, a company recently formed by the Quality Assured. Pork Farmers of Ireland. The group The launch is being complemented has a total of 140 producers who supply by a new marketing campaign from their pork to the producing company, Truly Irish Country Foods, aimed representing 70% of pork producers in at educating consumers about the Ireland. The brand was developed in benefits of purchasing Irish produce, response to Irish consumers’ concerns including TV, radio, newspaper, about origin, labelling and quality of magazine and online advertising. In meat products. addition, it will also see local farmers With people returning to home promote their products in store across comforts in time of recession, the overthe country. all rashers and sausage markets are

Guinness Celebrate Arthur’s Day ANTICIPATION and excitement is building in bars and pubs across the country in preparation for their Arthur’s Day celebrations which begin in Ireland at 17:59 on September 24, with a nationwide toast to Arthur Guinness to mark the 250 years since the signing of the 9,000 year lease on the St. James’ Gate brewery. Thousands of people across Ireland will be coming together to experience the live music events in over 30 venues across Dublin, from intimate gigs in 28 Dublin pubs to four other music venues and even a concert at the St James’ Gate brewery itself.

www.bordbia.ie

For peace of mind look for the Quality Mark

September09News

Avonmore Celebrates SuperCats

TO honour one of the most celebrated teams in Irish sport, Avonmore, proud sponsors of the Kilkenny hurling team, recently announced the launch of their new special edition ‘Black and Amber’ Kilkenny 2 litre Super Milk pack. Pictured at the launch of the special

edition pack are (l-r): Keiran O’Connor, Glanbia; Noreen Roche, Kilkenny Hurling nutritionist; Brian Cody, Kilkenny hurling manager; Jackie Tyrell, Kilkenny hurler; Denis ‘Rackard’ Cody, Kilkenny hurling equipment manager; and Emma Stapleton, Glanbia.

Musgrave Triathlon On Track MUSGRAVE have announced yet another push in their Triathlon fundraising endeavours for the Irish Cancer Society and Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital Crumlin. This year, all SuperValu and Centra stores across the country are adding additional support to the fundraising campaign by selling Tiger Lollies in all stores prior to the event. The lollies have been designed to show-off the new Triathlon mascot and will retail at €2 each, with all proceeds going directly to the Triathlon fund. The new Triathlon Mascot is a friendly tiger who encourages all participants to earn their stripes in the Triathlon, but he’s presently nameless, so Musgrave are running a competition in all SuperValu and Centra stores asking all their junior customers to help give him a name. The lucky winner will win a trip for a family of four to Eurodisney! 10

Pictured at the launch of Musgrave’s Tiger Lollies in support of the Musgrave Triathlon are the as-yet-unnamed Musgrave Triathlon Mascot with Pia Farrar (6).

Supermarkets Turn Blind Eye to Alcohol Code THE National Off Licence Association (NOffLA) have hit out at supermarkets for ignoring the code of practice on alcohol sales. As part of the code, retailers are required to separate their off-license sections from the rest of the shop. NOffLA, however, claim to have photographic evidence of stores continuing to sell alcoholic products beside soft drinks. “It’s blatant, it’s clear to see if you look at the supermarkets: they are putting the alcohol out again beside the non-alcohol products,” NOffLA chairman Jim McCabe told the Irish Independent.

Increasing Understanding of Bord Bia Quality Mark A MARKETING campaign to increase consumer understanding of the Bord Bia Quality Mark gets underway in September. The campaign aims to explain to consumers what the Quality Mark means in terms of the quality assurance standards behind it and the range of products that carry the Mark. The campaign targets 30-45 year-old grocery shoppers with children. Based on research which identified their perceptions of the Quality Mark, the campaign sets out to ensure that when a consumer sees the Mark on a product, they are reassured that the highest level of care and attention has been given to how that product is produced. In essence, the Quality Mark embodies the key benefits of quality assurance which gives peace of mind. A range of activities will take place, including TV, outdoor and point of sale advertising; media and online activities.

beautiful fragrances, kind to skin Persil and Comfort Naturals work together to infuse your clothes with beautiful fragrances inspired by nature. They have been dermatologically tested and our skincare research is validated by the British Skin Foundation. Naturally, they are a perfect combination.

September09Industry

News

SuperValu’s ‘Value Irish’ Week PICTURED at the launch of SuperValu’s Value Irish Week was Eva Spillane, aged 4, with celebrity chef, Clodagh McKenna. Value Irish Week saw all 194 independently-owned SuperValu stores showcasing the very best of Irish food and brands, with more than 1,500 demonstrations and tastings. Suppliers involved include Kepak, Brennan’s Bread, CountryStyle Foods, Glanbia, Carbery, Green Farm Foods, Lyons Tea, Boyne Valley, Green Isle, Unilever Ice Cream and Georgia Pacific. Bord Bia also supported Value Irish Week by providing hundreds of recipe leaflets to each SuperValu store throughout the country, while each SuperValu store ran competitions and special giveaways each day for shoppers. “Value Irish Week is just one way SuperValu stores are showing their support for Irish food, which we believe is amongst the best quality found anywhere in the world,” noted Donal Horgan, Managing Director, SuperValu. “As an Irish brand that’s been around for more than 30 years, SuperValu is proud to work closely with Irish suppliers and local producers to provide consumers with Irish, home-grown products at the best possible price.”

Avonmore Easy Pour Jug AVONMORE is set to shake up the milk market with a revolutionary new design for its 2 litre milk bottles. The new ‘Easy-Pour Jug’ replaces existing Avonmore 2 litre bottles across the country, as the brand aims to strengthen its market leading position. As well as having a modern, individual look that will stand out instore, it has a larger ‘easy to grip’ curved handle and an off centre spout, making it easier for the consumer to control the jug when pouring. The communications programme for the launch will be supported with new idents for Avonmore’s flagship sponsorship of Weather on RTE, TV3 and TG4. The launch will also be driven by a highly visible outdoor programme across a number of formats and through an aggressive PR campaign. Pictured at the launch of the New Easy Pour Jug from Avonmore are models Nadia Forde, Sarah Morrissey and Sarah Kavanagh with Avonmore milkmen Sean Sheridan, Philip Smith, Colm Doyle and James Talent.

Lynx Fever Hits Dublin DUBLIN came alive with Samba Spirit as Lynx hosted the ‘2009 Lynx Fever Brazilian Beach Party’ to launch its sizzling new scent, Lynx Fever. Maxim lingerie model of the moment and Guess runway model Elle Liberachi jetted into the POD to party with Brazil’s hottest spinstress, CSS front lady Lovefoxxx (pictured). Ireland’s sexiest men, Blizzards frontman Bressie and How Low Can You Go’s Michael Hayes, danced the night away with hot radio presenter and boys’ favourite, Michelle Doherty. MC on the night, Spin FM’s Jonathan McCrea ensured the temperature was kept ‘scorchio’ as Miss Universe Ireland Diana Donnelly shook her maracas with fellow models Georgia Salpa, Hayley Ryan, Nadia Forde, Daniella Moyles, Lynn Kelly, Julie Devine, Sarah Tansey, Stefani Bataiolli and Louise Kavanagh. Traditional Brazilian dancers added an authentic flavour as the traditional drummers kept the samba beat going.

Bord Bia Fellowship Programme BORD Bia recently launched its Marketing Fellowship Programme, in association with the UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School. Pictured at the announcement is Mairead Cassidy, UCD graduate, with (l-r): Aidan Cotter, CEO, Bord Bia; Tom Begley, Dean, UCD Business School; Dan Browne, Chairman, Bord Bia; and Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Brendan Smith TD. The programme aims to boost Irish food and drink exports, which exceeded €8 billion in 2008, and support Irish companies in expanding their market reach. Recruitment is underway for graduate Fellows who will undertake 200 assignments across 33 international markets on behalf of 100 Irish food companies.

Silver Pail’s 30th Birthday SILVER Pail Dairy recently celebrated its 30th birthday. The Fermoy based, family owned dairy was started by Michael Murphy in 1979 and is now managed by his daughter Thea. The multi-award winning dairy currently produces over 20m litres of ice cream each year, along with frozen ice cream and frozen desserts, including the popular Corrin Hill Ice Cream brand. It uses the traditional method to produce its real dairy ice cream from fresh dairy ingredients with a weekly intake of over 80,000 litres of cream and milk from local farms. 12

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September09Industry

News

Bewley’s Bag Gold Medals BEWLEY’S have won three gold medals at the prestigious international Great Taste Awards 2009 for their tea. Bewley’s Gold Tea Blend was awarded a Two Star Gold Award in the Blended tea-bags category, and Bewley’s Green Blend Tea and Bewley’s Special Reserve Tea each were awarded One Star Gold Awards. “Bewley’s has a strong tradition in tea and has been a favorite of Irish consumers for generations, so it’s great to see our expertise and experience being recognized,” said Mark Saunders, General Manager, Retail and At-Home Division, Bewley’s. “The Great Taste Awards is one of the major international authorities on speciality food and drink, and we’re delighted our tea has received such a major endorsement from them.”

Award Winning Butcher to Supply Moriarty Group TIM Sheahan Butchers, based in the green pastures of the Ring of Kerry, has won a major contract, to supply one of Ireland’s most successful, retail grocery and hospitality groups, the Moriarty Group, which includes three SuperValu supermarkets and two hotels. The contract, worth in excess of €0.5m, is testament to the quality and value of the product which is totally sourced in Kerry and processed in Tim’s own abattoir in Glenbeigh. All meats have full traceability and Master Craft Butcher, Tim personally selects the meat for slaughter, continuing on from a tradition that was passed down from his father and grandfather. Tim Sheahan is pictured (centre) with his “Men in Black’: Arturas Santa, Dave Sheehan, Martin Brosnan, Krzyszfof Mazewski, Kieran Murphy and Vaidas Kulevicius.

Topaz Scores for Meningitis Trust THE Meningitis Trust was the chosen Irish Charity Partner of Topaz for the last 12 months. Customers’ donations at Topaz sites all over the country helped the Irish owned company to raise €40,000 for MT. Topaz CEO Eddie O’Brien said that “thanks to the generosity of Topaz customers, The Meningitis Trust will be able to make more people aware of the threat and impact of the disease and allow MT to provide professional support services to families affected by it.” Eddie is pictured with Carole Nealon, General Manager of The Meningitis Trust.

Sweet Victory for Irish Bakery

Irwin’s Celebrates 100 years with Wheaten Bread Devotee

DELICIOUS, Ireland’s Gluten Free Bakery, took two gold medals at the prestigious Great Taste Awards 2009. The Cork based company won Two Gold Star Awards for its coconut macaroon and One Gold Star Award for its gluten free brown bread. “This is our second year to enter the Great Taste Awards and we’re thrilled to have won gold in both years,” noted Delicious founder, Denise O’Callaghan. “To have taken a double gold this year was the icing on the cake for us!”

AS the 100 year anniversary of Irwin’s Bakery approaches, fellow centurion, Belfast birthday girl Margaret Healy kept her party going with a surprise gift of wheaten bread from the Northern Irish family bakery. Mrs Healy swears that wheaten bread has been the secret to her long life, consuming upwards of a staggering 100,000 slices, so Irwin’s Bakery have ensured that Mrs Healy and her family will have enough wheaten to see them through to her 101st birthday celebrations. “It is fantastic to see love for traditional Irish breads, in particular wheaten bread, passed down through generations of one family,” noted Colette Wilson, Brand Manager for Irwin’s Bakery, pictured with Margaret Healy and her great grand-daughters Dearbhla (9) and Naoise Farrelly (7).

September09Industry

News

Flogas Gets Exclusive on Superser ‘MODEL mum’ Ruth Griffin, wife of Munster rugby player Alan Quinlan, was on hand to help Flogas highlight the news that they have become the exclusive distributor for Superser mobile heaters in Ireland and the UK. Superser mobile heaters are extremely popular with families of all ages looking to control their heating bills and Ruth is pictured with the Superser Radiant and Superser Catalytic models, now available exclusively from Flogas at 0419831041 or www.flogas.ie. Over the years, Flogas has noticed that during an economic downturn, sales of Superser mobile heaters increase. Research has shown that the main reason for their popularity is because they provide the perfect solution for cost-conscious customers looking to control their heating bills. They are extremely useful as an instant, economic and portable way to ‘spot-heat’ a room quickly, as many customers find it far cheaper than turning on the central heating for an hour or two.

Retro T-Shirts from Monster Munch WALKERS is set to build on the massive success of the retro re-launch of Monster Munch by running a cool retro t-shirts on-pack promotion across its Mega Monster Munch 40g range. Monster Munch are delivering growth of 14% YTD (Source: ACNielsen Scantrack Symbols, KG YTD, W/E 12 Jul 09). Designed specifically for the impulse channel, the promotion will be hugely appealing to impulse shoppers who want to be part of the retro revolution and get their hands on one these cool retro t-shirts featuring the loveable and iconic Monster Munch characters. All consumers have to do is buy 3 packs of their favourite Monster Munch 40g from impulse outlets and send-in the empty packs along with a cheque for €7.

Kenco Launches New Hot Drinks System

Driving Business Efficiency in Tesco

THE Kenco Coffee Company is offering a fantastic total solution to serving hot drinks on-the go with the introduction of the new Kenco FreshSeal 2Go. The simple-to-operate hot drinks system works in conjunction with Kenco FreshSeal products and helps make it possible to serve great quality branded hot drinks even in the most operationally challenged environments. The unit is simple to install and operate, as well as being quick and easy to clean. It can be plumbed or there is a non-plumbed version and its small footprint means it can fit into small spaces. Kenco FreshSeal offers a fantastic range of wellloved brands including ethically sourced Kenco freeze-dried instant coffee and Suchard Hot Chocolate flavour drink, all containing ingredients sourced from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms. While also available in the range are other well known brands such as Lyons Tea, Carte Noire Coffee, Twinings Traditional English Tea, Knorr Vegetable Soup and Bovril.

TESCO’S decision to appoint business process outsourcing specialist Scan Image Services to look after their document management strategy has allowed them to free up office space and made key trading information more readily available to staff and partners. The system, by virtue of its efficiency and ease of use, has enabled the business to move forward and grow. Tesco have realised the true potential of the system and plans have now been made to roll it out across the business. Joe Walsh, Finance Operations Manager and Office Programme Manager, Tesco Ireland, is pictured with Darren Walsh, General Manager, Filestores & Scan Image Services.

Septembert09Drinks

News

Heineken Ireland Announce Results THE first six months of 2009 have proven to be one of the most challenging trading periods in the history of the drinks industry, with consumer confidence at an extremely low level and prospects for 2010 remaining weak and unclear. In a declining beer market, Heineken Ireland succeeded in growing market share, with company turnover for the six months period to June 2009 increasing to €211m, underpinned by the addition and performance of the recently acquired Beamish & Crawford brands into the Heineken Ireland portfolio, particularly the Beamish and Fosters brands, together with strong sales across the Heineken and Coors lagers. For the first time in its history, Heineken Ireland is now the leading lager company

Lindeman’s Early Harvest Garden Party THE sensational Mercurynominated Lisa Hannigan headlined Lindeman’s Early Harvest Garden Party at Bray Summerfest with an intimate live performance in the Gardens and Orangery of Killruddery House, home to the Earl and Countess of Meath. Revelers enjoyed some great summer sounds in the beautiful surroundings of Killruddery while savouring crisp and refreshing wines from Lindemans Early Harvest. Fionnuala Ardee, daughter in-law of the Earl & Countess of Meath and proprietor of the Kilruddery Café, served up some delicious canapés to guests as they enjoyed a break from the rain in the spectacular Garden at Kilruddery House. Pictured enjoying the Party are Grainne Neville, Caroline Burton and Katherine Huskinson.

New Look for Connemara COOLEY Distillery has officially unveiled the new branding for its award-winning Connemara Family of Peated Single Malt Irish whiskeys. Connemara is the most decorated Irish whiskey over the last decade, winning over 20 Gold Medals from International Spirits Competitions. Included among these accolades are the “World’s Best Irish Single Malt” titles for 2008 and 2009. “We have given Connemara a new appearance which celebrates its Irish heritage, while still having a contemporary premium fee,” explained Jack Teeling, Sales & Marketing Director for Cooley Distillery. “We hope the rebranding will enable more consumers to unearth the peated pleasures of the Connemara Family.”

in the Irish marketplace. “In the face of deteriorating economic conditions, Heineken Ireland has delivered positive growth ahead of the market,” noted Declan Farmer, Corporate Affairs Manager, Heineken Ireland. “This has been driven by very robust sales performances from the Heineken and Coors lager brands and the newly acquired Beamish and Fosters brands. “Whilst 2009 is proving to be a tough year for the industry, I do not see any positive outlook at this stage for 2010. However, as always, we continue to leverage the properties of our sponsorships, invest in our key brands, customer relationships and people in enhancing our offering and competitiveness in the marketplace.”

Bulmers Light Hosts Graffiti Battle DUBLIN recently hosted its first ever Secret Wars battle in association with Bulmers Light. A team of three artists flew over from London to battle three of Dublin’s finest in The Bernard Shaw pub on Portobello Road. This innovative art event has been held all over the world in cities such as New York, London, Paris, Berlin, Moscow and now Dublin. To celebrate Secret Wars’ arrival in Ireland, the cream of London’s and Dublin’s graffiti artists took to the streets to create a unique piece of urban art on a massive 48-sheet canvas. Pictured with Orlaith Fortune, Marketing Manager, Bulmers, are artists Mr Gauky, Kodax and Dan Leo.

Edward Dillon and Foster’s Renew Distribution Agreement EDWARD Dillon & Co. Ltd and Foster’s EMEA Limited have announced the renewal of their distribution agreement for Wolf Blass, Rosemount, Penfolds and Yellowglen brands in the Republic of Ireland. Foster’s global strategy for Lindemans includes the extension of the brand into Chile and South Africa. Edward Dillon have, in view of existing commitments to their current Chilean and South African partners, elected to resign the distribution of Lindemans with effect from December 31, 2009. “We are proud of our longstanding and successful partnership with Foster’s and look forward to working closely with them in the further development of the strong leadership positions held by their core brands in the Irish market,” said John Pearson, Managing Director of Edward Dillon & Co. Ltd.

September09On

the Vine

Cassidy Wines to Distribute Gallo in Ireland CASSIDY Wines have taken over the distribution of the entire Gallo portfolio since August 19, including the Turning Leaf, Gallo Family Vineyards and Redwood Creek ranges. These wines will join Rancho Zabaco and Carlo Rossi, which Cassidy Wines have been distributing for the past five years. One of the best known names in the wine world, Gallo is also one of the top selling Californian brands on the Irish market. Neil Cassidy, Managing Director, said that he is pleased to be adding the range to the portfolio, commenting that “with our comprehensive delivery, distribution and sales network and diverse customer base, Cassidy Wines is perfectly placed to build the brand even further and deliver sustained growth.” “At Gallo, our philosophy is to bring terrific quality wine to the market and offer the consumer great value,” Ian Thomas from Gallo comments. “This new partnership with Cassidy will help us grow the New World wine offering in Ireland and offer the Irish wine lover great quality wine at a great value price. Both Gallo and Cassidy are focused on building brands and this new partnership reinforces Gallo’s commitment to the Irish market and is a strong investment in the future.” As part of the new distribution agreement, Cassidy Wines have appointed a Brand Manager to co-ordinate and manage the Gallo portfolio. Colin Clarke joins Cassidy Wines in the newly created position from Allied Drinks, where he worked for three years as National Accounts Manager.

New EU Wine Regulations THE EU’s new wine regulations have now been implemented. These new initiatives, agreed in December 2007, aim to modernise wine making practices in European wine regions to try to make EU countries more competitive, especially in relation to the growing success of the New World producers. One of the reforms includes simpler labelling laws. From August 2009, all wine labels are now allowed to mention grape variety and vintage on the label. The French AOC (Appellation d’Origine Controlee) becomes known as AOP (Appellation d’Origin Protegee) and Vin de Pay wines, or their equivalent in other European countries, will now be lapelled as IGPs (Indicational Geograpique Protegee).

Irish Wine Trade Association THE Irish Wine Trade Association is a new association, which has been set up to represent the interests of importing companies. This is a welcome initiative by companies who are mostly smaller importers, although membership is open to all importing trade members. For further information, email: IWTA@Ireland.com.

Cassidy Wines Takes Over Distribution of Vina Errazuriz CASSIDY Wines has just announced that it is taking over the distribution of Viña Errazuriz from Allied Drinks. One of Chile’s top wine estates, Viña Errazuriz is joining the company’s extensive portfolio of premium wines. Neil Cassidy, Managing Director of Cassidy Wines said he is delighted to be adding such a prestigious and well respected name to the company’s comprehensive portfolio. “Viña Errazuriz is a wine that is well established in the Irish market. I look forward to working with our customers in both the on and off trade and I am confident we can continue to grow the brand and build on its success,” he noted. Viña Errazuriz Commercial Director Carlos de Carlos welcomes the new development, commenting, “In these challenging times, we are delighted to be partnering with another family-owned company that shares our philosophy of producing and selling premium wines in Ireland. I am sure that our portfolio of world class Chilean wines will strengthen Cassidy’s premium offering and we look forward to working with Neil Cassidy and his team, in continuing to develop Viña Errazuriz in the Irish market.” Viña Errazuriz is committed to producing high quality wines and their efforts were rewarded in December with the double announcement that they had been selected as Winery of the year 2008 by Wines of Chile and Chilean Wine producer of the year 2008 by IWSC in the UK.

Borsa Vini – Italian Wine Fair THE 2009 Borsa Vini will take place on Tuesday, October 6, 2009, at the Hilton Dublin Hotel, Charlemont Place, Dublin 2. The trade and press tasting will run from 11am to 6pm. This special one day wine-tasting event offers a fantastic chance to discover a wide range of new wines from over 40 different producers and encompassing 14 regions of Italy. A number of these producers are new to the Republic of Ireland and will be seeking representation, while others already export to Ireland. The wines featuring in the tasting come from a number of regions including: Abruzzo, Calabria, Campani, Emilia Romagna, Lazio, Lombardia, Marche, Piemonte, Puglia, Sardegna, Sicilia, Toscana, Trentino Alto Adige, and Veneto. Borsa Vini is organised by the Italian Trade Commission. Tel: (01) 237 5490.

CUNE Rioja Moves to Febvre & Co. CUNE, one of Rioja’s best known companies has transferred its distribution to Febvre & Company, who will now distribute their wines throughout Ireland. For more information about Cune wines in Ireland, contact Lorna Rouse at Febvre & Co. email: lrouse@febvre.ie. Tel: (01) 216 1400.

September09On

Santa Rita to Relaunch 120 Wines in Ireland SANTA Rita is re-launching the classic 120 range of wines with a global campaign called ‘A Tradition of Honouring Heroes’ maintaining the memory of the 120 Santa Rita heroes. Bernardo O’Higgins was the first President of the Independent Chilean republic. His father, Ambrose O’Higgins, was born in Ballinary, Co. Sligo, in 1720, After emigrating to Spain, he enrolled in the Spanish Imperial Service and became Govenor General of the Capitancy General of Chile. During this time, he had a relationship with Lady Isabel Requelme, whose family was a member of the Spanish ruling class. From this unofficial union, a son was born, Bernardo O’Higgins, who would later lead Chile to its independence from the Spanish Empire. According to legend, in 1814 during the fight for Chilean independence, 120 men led by Bernardo O’Higgins took refuge in Santa Rita’s wine cellars following a long, hard battle. When the Spanish troops arrived in pursuit, the matriarch of the family, Dona Paula Jaraquemada, would not let them set foot in her home. Thanks to her bravery, the 120 soldiers regained their strength and continued their fight for Chile’s independence. Today, the same cellars are used to age Santa Rita 120 wines. The 360 degree campaign will be launched in Ireland in October, followed by the rest of the world. It will feature an extensive radio and print media campaign around ‘A Tradition of Honouring Heroes.’ An extension of this campaign will be a ‘Local Heroes’ competition, with consumers being asked to nominate a local hero from their community. The winner will receive a €10,000 donation to the charity or initiative of their choice and a trip to the home of Santa Rita in Chile. Activities include sampling in stores and at major events in Dublin during October. Exciting POS at point of purchase will also be available to retailers. The 120 brand is one of Santa Rita’s classic ranges and represents 27 years of success and evolution in wine. The range has been updated with a new image, giving it a more contemporary and elegant look. The design of the new label is clean and easy to read, while preserving the basic elements of the original. The new range will be sold in the new energy-saving lighter bottle (420g) with screw caps to preserve freshness and keep quality consistent. “We are delighted to be starting the relaunch of the 120 range in Ireland because it is the most important Santa Rita 120 market in the world,” says Salvador Domenech, Commercial Director of Santa Rita. “We believe that this initiative will further consolidate our number one position in the Chilean category in Ireland.” Santa Rita is distributed by Gilbeys of Ireland.

the Vine

WSET courses in Ireland THE Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) have just announced that following the closure of the Wine Board, they have awarded Approved Programme Provider (APP) to three additional people in Ireland. This allows the provision of the WSET courses at Foundation, Intermediate, Advanced and Diploma level in the Republic of Ireland. Dermot Nolan Wine Services, run by Dermot Nolan MW, have been awarded the APP to provide the WSET Diploma course in Ireland. Any current Diploma students will now be able to complete their course here in Ireland and any prospective students can register for the new 2009/2011 Diploma course by contacting Dermot Nolan MW (Tel: (01) 288 9651 email: nolan_mw@compuserve.com). Mary Gaynor WSET Dip/Wine MBA has had APP accreditation to run Foundation, Intermediate and Advanced WSET courses for the last three years. She operates Wine Academy Ireland from her base in Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny (email: marygaynor99@eircom.net). Two new APP providers have been approved by the WSET for Foundation, Intermediate and Advanced WSET Courses. They are Harriet Tindal and Paul Williams. Harriet Tindal works for Tindal Wine Merchants and has recently returned from the UK where she worked in the trade for many years (Tel: 086 796 3355). Paul Williams runs Just Grapes, a wine website, and also lectures at the Shannon College of Hotel Management. He is based in Clonmel (Tel: 087 6557596 email: paul@justgrapes.ie).

The Irish Wine Show THE Irish Wine Show 2009 takes place at The Pavilion, Leopardstown, Dublin 18, on Tuesday, September 29, from 10am to 5pm. The Show will culminate in the announcement of the NOffLA Gold Star Awards 2009. The Gold Star wines have been selected by a panel of qualified experts and their endorsement means that customers have a specialist recommendation and an expert reassurance that they will enjoy excellent quality and value when they select one of their award winning wines. The Irish wine show is a very important event for those selling wine to the independent off licence sector. This sector accounts for over 31% of the total off trade market in Ireland, while off licence sales account for 74% of all wine sold on the Irish market. By way of departure this year, The National OffLicence Association has extended an invitation to companies in the retail trade who are not drinks suppliers but who provide the essential add-ons required by any successful off-licence operator, be it packaging, boxes, gift wrap, ice or snack foods. For more information contact Ms. Reggie Walsh, at NOffLA. Tel: (01) 2962326. Email: reggie@noffla.ie.

September09Shop

Profile

Costcutter’s Capital Idea Alan Costello’s brand new Costcutter on Dublin’s North Strand has quickly tapped into the needs of its customer base and become an integral part of the local community.

The

Strand Cinema on Dublin’s North Strand had its first heyday in the 1930s. The area was one of the parts of Dublin bombed during World War II, but the stalwart building and its art deco façade stood undeterred as a landmark in North Dublin. Now developer Alan Costello has rejuvenated the old building and as part of an extensive redevelopment, it now incorporates a brand new Costcutter Foodmarket, at the cutting edge of 21st century grocery retailing. “I was born and bred in this area and I knew the potential the site had in terms of residential development but also for a grocery outlet,” Alan explains to RETAIL NEWS. “The nearby Post Office was small but extremely busy and the Strand has a huge volume of people passing its doors daily. A critical part of the development was to approach An Post and offer them a brand new purpose-built area of the shop to house Pictured outside Costcutter North Strand are Noel Brady, Sales a new larger Post Office. It represented a significant Manager North, Barry Group, Susan Hickey, Store Manager, and Mark McCumiskey, Barry Group. investment but one that I was comfortable to make.” Another crucial part of the development was the to a very high finish and we were very impressed by his selection of a suitable symbol group partner. Although Alan plans. Alan was ready to commit a considerable investment is a very successful developer, he had no grocery retail and we were delighted, having examined his options, that experience and he knew a strong partner was vital to the Alan chose the Costcutter brand. For us, it was a challenge success of any new shop. to deliver a package that would give him a return on his “When Alan approached us, we were extremely enthuinvestment and an opportunity to establish a top quality siastic about the project,” enthuses Noel Brady, Sales Costcutter food market in the area.” Manager North, Barry Group. “The entire development was

September09Shop

Quality Image The resulting shop is a credit to everyone involved in the project. The Costcutter image is immaculate with strong graphics on the exterior and a fresh and modern interior. Indeed, the shop is easily capable of accommodating every type of customer, from city centre high convenience shopper through to locals looking for basket and trolley shops. There is a quality feel throughout, from the Lavazza coffee offering to an impressive deli and the detailed design stage has allowed the Post Office to become an integral part of the shop without intruding on its primary function as a grocery outlet. The shop breaks down into four distinct but complementary areas: food-to-go; ambient grocery; an off-licence, which will be up and running soon; and the Post Office. The high level of investment is obvious from the top quality finish in every area. Given the traditionally working class demographic of the neighbourhood, value for money is promoted strongly across every part of the store, with highly visible value offers on shelves and shelf-ends. “Although there was a large investment in the shop, it has to deliver value for money to customers in every purchase,” Alan explains. “We cannot charge high prices simply because there was a high investment. I know the area well and I want customers coming back. While a great looking shop will impress visitors, it’s providing value for money that will get them shopping here regularly.”

Category Management The appointment of Susan Hickey to manage the store was an integral part of its success. Susan has extensive symbol group experience and she keeps the shop running like clock-

Profile

work on a day-to-day basis, while ensuring their category management and stock selection is perfectly tailored to local customers. “I am always keeping an eye on sales volume and on pricing and making sure customers are happy with the choice of goods on offer and the price they are paying,” Susan notes, while acknowledging the support from their symbol group partners in the Barry Group. “Barry Group have been fantastic to work with. There is a constant flow of communication between this shop and the Group. They are working hard to give us support on every area of the shop, from staff training to advice on legislation issues, while their buyers are working hard to make sure the Group gets the best possible deals, so that we can pass that value on to customers. Our value offers can compete head-to-head on price with major multiple outlets and customers have been very impressed with our pricing.”

Tremendous Support The store owner too is delighted with his choice of symbol group partner. “The Barry Group have given us tremendous support and helped us create a fabulous shop,” notes Alan, who also praises his staff for their 100% commitment to making the shop a success and helping it to become an integral part of the local community. Although the shop has only been operating for three weeks, it is already trading above projected levels, no mean feat given the high expectations both the Barry Group and Alan had for the shop and the current economic climate. But it is no coincidence: the success comes from the intensive effort put in by everyone involved, both in the design of the shop and its daily FACT FILE operation, allied to Owner: Alan Costello the fact that it’s Location: Units C&D 149 North Strand positioned at the Road, Dublin 3 heart of the Size: 3,000 square feet community it Number of serves, both in Staff: 13, full time & part time location and the Opening strong value ethic hours: 07:00-22:00, Monday-Saturday; inherent in its daily 09:00-21:00, Sunday operation. 21

September09Karen

Meenan’s News Rack

Mags to Riches Incorporating deeper shelving and quad units into your magazine stand can make an immediate impact on its profitability.

There

is one investment that is worthwhile to grow your retail sales in 2009: get some deeper shelving for your magazine stand. This might sound like stating the obvious, but once the deeper shelving is in place, you are literally ready to go and grow your magazine sales. You will be able to pack out all your stock on the magazine stand without having to give two facings to any one title or without having to store unopened parcels underneath the magazine unit. Unopened parcels are the death knell for this category. There is usually a lead time of 3-6 months before a new title appears in your store. A new title has been researched and piloted amongst test purchasers before it is finally launched. As retailers, all you have to do is open the parcel and place the titles in the appropriate spot on the stand. Yet why do so many new titles fail at this point of the procedure? Many brand new titles, which have been successful in later years, have been returned same-day by retailers (or by those who work in the magazine department who took an executive decision to stock or de-list those brand new titles) on the very first issue, without giving them a chance to sell. 22

This phenomenon of returning a batch of brand new titles as un-solds (or ‘firebacks’) is not just reserved for Irish titles, however: this practice of stores returning full copies without ever positioning them on the stands is widespread. This started in earnest when full copy returns were introduced – this was the time when newsagency personnel decided to return any titles not familiar as best sellers – and in so doing have caused the demise of many new launches. The suppliers have not helped new titles to grow – they often box out brand new titles in quantities way beyond the actual needs of the retailer and in so doing, hasten the end of many new titles which could have survived had they been allocated in smaller numbers in the first place. Five copies of a new title is always a good starting point – if that sells out, then there is an opportunity to order more the next time – but an initial order of 20 or more titles is just like a red rag to a bull and usually means that the entire bundle is returned unopened by the store. What a waste of time and effort for everyone! The reason given by many who return full issues without giving them a chance to sell or not from the magazine stands is universally met with a groan: “Where will I put them?”

Kleerex news and magazine Quads.

way of selling cross purchase titles – they bring colour and an extra dimension to the stand and are good at highlighting best sellers on the unit. The titles promoted can change frequently to maximise the sales potential by being cross merchandised with a daily purchase – a newspaper. The best titles to display on a quad unit or newspaper tower are other news related titles such as Business Plus,

Quad Units A quad unit works very well as both a storage and display unit for newspapers – and it alleviates the weekly Sunday newspapers on the floor disaster, with supplements falling out, which is so common in stores all across the country. Quad units are inexpensive – approximately €500 – they can display 16 newspaper titles and also have hot spot units for 12 magazines. A quad unit in addition to 3-metre bays of deeper shelving is the least you can provide to be a serious supplier of magazines to your customers. Hot spot units, or A4 perspex holders for magazines are a very useful

Business Plus is proving hugely popular with Irish consumers.

September09Karen

Meenan’s News Rack

your store (the bundle was unopened, remember) where did they go to buy it - to your competitor perhaps? And what other purchases did they make while they were shopping with your rival? In so many ways, magazines are the perfect product for the following reasons:

Business & Finance, one of Ireland’s top selling business magazines, sells particularly well when placed on a quad unit.

Business & Finance, The Economist, Time, Newsweek, Phoenix or The Investor.

Cross Purchasing Research shows evidence of cross purchase between broadsheets such as The Irish Times and Golf Ireland and The Irish Garden, so this is a very useful way to sell more stock. This can become a vibrant fresh stock focus in the centre of your store, particularly if the range of magazines displayed in hot spot units in the quad unit is refreshed on a daily basis. Daily newspapers, by their very nature, are fresh every morning – so too are magazines. 80% of the sales of every title in your store are made within the first 48 hours of that bundle arriving to your door. Suppose your dedicated member of staff who looks after the newsagency is on a day off or has phoned in sick – who opens that bundle of fresh stock? Do you? Does your manager? Would someone in the deli notice that the unopened bundle is as fresh as a delivery of chicken, which if left unopened and not placed on a display stand would now begin to smell? That might sound like the point is being exaggerated, but let us get back to the statistic – 80% of the sales of that title are made within 48 hours of being delivered. So, if your customer didn’t buy their favourite magazine in 24

a) Sale price above the average sale In a survey of convenience stores country wide, the average sale price is around €5. In larger stores such as SuperValu and EUROSPAR, the average price is around €8. So as a retailer, if you want to launch a new product to your existing range, a product with a unit price of the average sale price or higher is immediately attractive. Magazines, particularly monthly titles with cover prices in excess of €5, fit that bill nicely. b) No electrical running costs To sell magazines and newspapers effectively, you require at least 3-metre bays of deeper shelving. This equipment is inexpensive and the best news of all is that there is no running cost, electrical or otherwise associated with this department. c) No maintenance contract These are hidden overheads associated with the effective running of a store – there are maintenance contracts for freezers, cookers, hot and cold serve over units, scanning equipment, security cameras etc. Even if there is no maintenance contract in place, there is always the likelihood of equipment breakdowns. d) Acceptable gross margin Even the coffee culture which has been so embraced by convenience stores across the land comes at a price. Even though the gross profit on a cup of tea or coffee is high, the purchase price of the original machine can be as high as €20,000 or involves a long lease. The gross margin for magazines and newspapers averages at a standard 25%: an average gross margin of a category which requires no other overheads such as special equipment, leasing, maintenance,

electrical running costs and an acceptable cover price is starting to look very attractive. e) Full sale or return Once you have mastered how to manage this category successfully (and there are very vital pieces of learning associated with the correct procedures for getting credits on unsold stock) then there is no risk associated with running a successful, profitable newsagency. All items are offered on a full sale-or-return basis. You have the freedom to cull slow movers from your stand to make way for more attractive fresh stock which has just arrived at your door and still get full credit on all un-solds. There is a strict returns procedure, however, which seems to be the stumbling block for many retailers. If

The Gloss to be distributed with Irish Times GLOSS Publications has announced details of an aggressive expansion plan, which sees its flagship publication ‘The Gloss Magazine’ being published in a new super glossy format and distributed monthly with The Irish Times from September 2009. “We are very excited to have secured this new route to market for The Gloss Magazine,” enthused Jane McDonnell, publisher of The Gloss. “It will provide great advantages for advertisers with a more effective way to reach more ABC customers and achieve high visibility for their advertising. This development underscores our on-going commitment to quality and innovation in magazine publishing and it is set to shake up the Irish glossy magazine market once again.” Speaking on behalf of the The Irish Times Ltd, CEO, Maeve Donovan commented: “We are delighted to distribute The Gloss Magazine with The Irish Times. There are strong business synergies in our respective audiences. We believe that the new magazine format will provide real added value for Irish Times readers.”

September09Karen

you have lost money in the past due to incorrect or late returns, there is a natural resistance amongst many stores to further invest any more time or energy on this category. Because the returns procedure is perceived as being complicated, it is avoided by many and the vital part of this whole chain – the returns docket – is left to a staff member whose work is rarely examined by their manager or by the retailer. Stock losses as high as €500 per week are common in independent outlets, with higher amounts at stake in larger outlets – in one case, a supermarket lost an average of €1,500 per week as a result of incorrect returns procedures. The initial reaction to stock losses is to discontinue stocking that item – a more profitable option is to get proper training in how to run this category effectively. f) Recession resistant without having to discount There are many UK studies which show that once a magazine buying habit has become established, that habit stays with the customer as a life-long purchase. Weekly magazine purchases often start when disposable income is high but in later years, that buying habit continues even though money is not as readily available as before – the habit of buying magazines tends to appeal to customers in good times and in bad. When money is tight, the purchase of a product for €5 is seen as an affordable treat, one of life’s little luxuries: when money is plentiful, magazines are purchased as a precursor to a higher spend on fashion, home improvements or garden accessories. Compare this with any other category in your store – can you sell other products in recessionary times as a treat without having to offer a discount at the till point? g) Customer appeal The most important reason why you as a retailer should make more money from magazines is that your customers like them! In a recent survey, it was found that there are two areas in-store where customers still seem to enjoy the “shopping experience” and they are

the magazine stand and the wine/ off licence department, which offer the customer a form of escapism – a few minutes of peace and quiet in an otherwise hectic day. The wine/off licence has its limitations however, as this department is only attractive to wine drinking adults. By its nature, it eliminates customers who are under 18 years and who are non-drinking and its opportunities for purchases are largely in the evening time. The magazine stand, on the other hand, is as appealing to the toddler pointing at Fun to Learn Favourites from his buggy as it is to the businessman buying a copy of The Sunday Business Post. The magazine stand has particular appeal to women – the majority of titles sold from the magazine stand are women’s weekly titles, which have a broad range of celebrity, real life, mature and classic titles. Monthly titles are appealing to fashionistas, brides, garden lovers, home buyers and DIY enthusiasts. Men’s titles have also been successful over the years, with titles which range from fashion to sport, to computer gaming, lifestyle and health issues. Indeed, some men’s titles are finding their

Meenan’s News Rack

Ten Reasons to focus on Magazines 1) Sale price above the average sale price - €5 2) No electrical running costs 3) No maintenance contract 4) Acceptable gross margin – 25% 5) Full sale or return 6) Recession resistant without having to discount 7) High customer appeal 8) Irish Magazines offer relevance for Irish consumers 9) Impulse and planned purchases 10) Magazines are bought 7 days a week at any time of the day

way into the top twenty selling titles in many stores. Your newsagency has customer appeal from 6am, when the newspapers are delivered, to the daily fix of an Evening Herald, with opportunities for magazine sales at every point in between. With the right care and attention, it can be a big profit earner in your store.

Display Solutions from Bartuf THE Barcube from Bartuf Group has a number of advantages for the display of newspapers and magazines, namely: -

Small footprint, large volume; Proven to substantially increase news sales; Displays both tabloid and broadsheet; Manufactured from Petg plastic (10x stronger than acrylic); Optional eye-line unit for selling magazines; Optional hook-on magazine and confectionery pockets; Quality timber or metal bases in a range of finishes; Supplied with 12 months warranty.

Contact Paul Breen at BOL Design on (01) 8325758 or see www.bol.ie for more information.

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Community Spirit Alive and Well in Londis ADM Londis have chosen 30 young authors selected from over 3,000 entries across Ireland to have their stories published in aid of Barnardos Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Charity.

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September09Centra

Council

RETAIL NEWS travels to Strokestown in County Roscommon to talk to Centra Council Chairman Francis McDonnell to find out more about the Council and what it is doing to help Centra retailers in these challenging economic times. Centra Council Chairman Francis McDonnell pictured in his store in Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

Wise Council Francis

McDonnell has been involved in grocery retailing all his working life. In 2002, he took ownership of Centra, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, and in 2005, engaged in a significant redevelopment of the store. At the time, he also took a seat on the Centra Council. After his three-year term on the Council was completed, he was nominated to sit as Council Chair. The Centra Council consists of 13 members from various regions, who also represent the different Centra formats.

Partnership Approach The Council acts as a conduit to feed the concerns raised by Centra retailers on the ground to Musgrave Retail Partners

Ireland (MRPI) and serves to strengthen the network as a whole. It sits every 6-8 weeks to address issues raised by Centra retailers and works in partnership with MRPI to expedite the delivery of solutions to those concerns. 2009 has been an extremely busy year for the Council: its primary policy this year, in partnership with Musgrave is to help Centra retailers cope with the economic turmoil faced by Ireland’s entire business community, including grocery retailers. “This year, one of the main concerns of Centra retailers has been over cost concerns,” states Francis. “In the current economic climate, retailers need to offer very good value to customers without compromising on quality or service. With the support of Musgrave, we are presently doing this

September09Centra

Council

As well as attending regular Council meetings, the members of the Council sit on various forums and sub-groups. One of the busiest of those subgroups this year has been examining the production of handbills and organisation of key value offers. Far more customers are now shopping from the handbill and using them to spot keen value offers and promotions. This has ensured that Centra have been able to create promotions to compete effectively in this highly competitive market. very well, particularly with the introduction of our big brand price cuts and our extended handbill.”

Cutting Costs The Centra Council Chairman believes that it is vital “for Centra to offer its members other ways to achieve price competitiveness”. “Ourselves and Musgrave have been working hard to develop a variety of cost cutting measures in terms of product costs, operating costs and capital costs, so that Centra retailers can deliver great value for money to shoppers without significantly diminishing their profitability,” he explains. He’s extremely happy with the speed at which Musgrave have reacted to retailers’ concerns and recommendations: “We have already managed to implement schemes that offer our members significant cost savings. We have developed a programme in association with Airtricity to allow our members to achieve big savings in electricity costs, while a similar programme is under way to deliver savings to Centra retailers in the area of insurance. Centra have also delivered a significant reduction in store development costs, to assist in the development of new stores and for current retailers to continue to revamp stores where needed.” With product costs, accounting for such a significant part of any retailers’ cost base, it is obviously an area of additional concern. Council is working very closely with Musgrave to achieve better deals from suppliers, where possible, and in promoting and developing new lines of own brand products. Indeed, sales of own brand products are increasing all the time, as the hitherto notoriously brandloyal Irish consumer is becoming more willing to substitute in favour of own label products, provided that the quality of those products meet their exacting standards. Indeed, Centra has the biggest offering of own ranges and products within its competitive set and customers are really buying into the depth, range and value on offer.

Best Practice Shops According to the Chairman, another key role for the Council is to make Centra members aware of what the Group is doing to help retailers: “We have ‘Best Practice’ shops for every category of Centra retailer and we encourage other retailers to visit these stores to see first-hand the benefits that implementing a ‘Best Practice’ operation can bring to their own business. “There is a full communications plan in place between Council and the other Centra retailers across the network. We ensure that everyone is aware of the solutions developed in partnership with Musgrave, so that they can take advantage of those solutions,” he continues. The Centra Council allows the network as a whole to be more flexible to the changing needs of retailers and allows corporate policy to be informed by the needs of the guys on-the-ground on a regular basis. This also enables corporate strategy to react more quickly to changing market conditions.

Back to Basics In Francis’ own 6,000 square feet shop on the Elphin Road, Strokestown, business is holding up well. Although sales have inevitably been affected by the economic downturn, he is managing to trade through the difficult times. “It’s very much back to basics in the shop at the moment,” he stresses. “Spending time on the shop floor, meeting customers and listening to their needs, as well as keeping them up to date with the excellent value for money we can offer them. We have taken advantage of all the cost cutting programmes made available through the efforts of the Council and Musgrave, as well as implementing our own cost cutting measures. We have shifted focus very much on to promotional offers and own brand goods. “It is important for us to maintain a positive outlook and work hard to trade through this recession. When we reach the end of it, we will be the stronger for it and as always, the Council will continue working with Musgrave to keep the retailers’ agenda FAC T FILE to the forefront in Owner: Francis McDonnell terms of planning Location: Elphin Road, Strokestown, and strategy. County Roscommon. We will also Size: 6,000 square feet be ensuring Number of that the Centra Staff: 33 full time & part time brand continues Opening to be the number hours: 07:30-22:00, Monday-Saturday; one convenience 08:30-21:30, Sunday. brand in the market.” 29

September09Fuels

Warm Front for Fuels Stocking up on fuels could prove a big profit-booster this autumn and winter.

Irish

consumers are increasingly looking at alternative ways to minimise energy costs during the winter months. With rising fuel costs and increasing pressures on consumers, a huge number of homes and businesses throughout Ireland are starting to choose modern, high efficiency heating solutions over traditional heating systems and rethinking how they heat their homes and businesses. Stocking up on a

Calor Gas has developed innovative heating solutions for the domestic and business markets that are cost effective and kinder to the environment.

range of fuels, from Firelogs and peat briquettes to LP Gas cylinders, is a sure-fire way to boost your profits over the coming months.

Calor Gas In an age of rising fuel costs, an uncertain economic outlook and major environmental challenges, many

Flogas Gets the Exclusive on Superser THE ‘Super’ big news this Autumn and Winter season is that Flogas is now the exclusive distributor for Superser mobile heaters in Ireland and the UK. The Superser brand name is the original and the best quality mobile heater on the market today. Up until now, Superser heaters were distributed through a number of companies but Flogas are now delighted to announce that they have secured an exclusive distributorship with the manufacturers. “We have been promoting and selling Superser heaters for the past 30 years,” said Eoin O’Flynn of Flogas. “This, combined with our track record in the LP Gas sector and the strong Flogas dealer and appliance centre network across Ireland, was a critical factor in us being awarded the exclusive rights to distribute Superser heaters in Ireland and the UK.”

Model mum Ruth Griffin, wife of Munster rugby player Alan Quinlan, together with little son AJ are highlighting the news that Flogas is now the exclusive distributor for Superser mobile heaters in Ireland and the UK.

Retailers looking to stock up on Superser mobile heaters for the winter months will be now able to source them exclusively from Flogas on 041-9831041 or www.flogas.ie. 30

So hot this season

Introducing the

Provence Mobile Heater from Calor Gas Elegant, durable and oh-so-chic, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s instant heat you can take anywhere. And even when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not on, this attractive stove is guaranteed to draw envious looks from your guests. The Provence from Calor Gas will warm to any occasion, be it in the kitchen, living room or conservatory. And by only heating the room you are in, you use less fuel which is good news for the environment and your pocket too.

Discover the stylish and practical Provence portable heater from Calor now at Woodies DIY, Atlantic Homecare and Independent Calor Stockists nationwide. For further details, call R.O.I. 1850 812 470, N.I. (028) 9045 5588 or visit www.calorgas.ie

Enjoy a Calorful life

September09Fuels

The Provence from Calor Gas is the stylish new addition to the spot heating market: it is cast in high quality steel and is fuelled by the renowned yellow Calor Gas 11.34kg butane cylinder, housed discretely within the body of the stove.

homes and businesses are choosing modern, high efficiency heating solutions over traditional heating systems. And as the summer season draws to a close, your customers will be looking at alternative ways to minimise energy costs during the winter months. In short, your customers will be rethinking how they heat their homes and businesses. In response to this changing customer need, Calor Gas has developed innovative heating solutions for the domestic and business markets that are cost effective and kinder to the environment. Calor Gas produces significantly lower CO2 emissions than oil, coal, peat and electricity. Championed by Calor Gas, spot heating provides instant heat when and where customers need it. With spot heating, they don’t need to have the central heating system on all the time, which can waste heat in rooms not being used. This can help your 32

customers save energy, reduce energy costs and help the environment at the same time. Calor Gas mobile heaters provide instant heat where and when your customers need it most. The mobile heater range combines top performance with style, mobility and cost effectiveness. There is a wide range of models available to suit all budgets. The Provence from Calor Gas is the stylish new addition to the spot heating market. Not only a superb mobile heater, the Provence also provides a perfect focal point for any room. It has been specifically designed to blend in with the ambience of any home and will bring a touch of style wherever it is placed. Developed in Ireland, the Provence is 100% portable, so there are no installation costs or associated works, like the need for a flue chimney or socket. The Provence is cast in high quality steel and is fuelled by the

renowned yellow Calor Gas 11.34kg butane cylinder, housed discretely within the body of the stove. This means excellent efficiency with a maximum heat output of 3kw. For safety, the Provence features a Safety Oxygen Depletion cut-off. This device cuts off the appliance if carbon dioxide levels in the room rise above a safe level, giving peace of mind to your customers. With rising energy costs becoming an increasingly important consideration for homes and businesses in today’s competitive market, the mobile heater range from Calor Gas provides the ideal spot heating solution. Spot heating is economical, efficient and effective. Calor’s continuous development within new and existing markets puts the company at the forefront of the cylinder gas market and reinforces their commitment to supplying convenient, safe and quality products. All yellow Calor Gas cylinders are fitted with the ‘Calor Guard’, a unique tamper-evident seal. This is a guarantee of a quality Calor product and is an essential part of ensuring customer safety and peace of mind. To view the full range of Calor mobile heaters on offer please visit www.calorgas.ie, telephone 1850 812 450 or mail info@calorgas.ie.

Flogas Flogas is one of Ireland’s largest suppliers of bottled gas, which it markets via a nationwide network of dealers with Ireland. Flogas is now the exclusive distributor for Superser in Ireland. Over the years, Flogas has noticed that during an economic downturn, sales of Superser mobile heaters actually increase. “This is because they provide the perfect solution for cost-conscious customers looking to control their heating bills,” noted Eoin O’Flynn of Flogas. “Superser mobile heaters are extremely useful as an instant, economic and portable way to ‘spot-heat’ a room quickly, as many customers find it far cheaper than turning on the central heating for an hour or two.” For homeowners who want instant heat that’s both stylish and useful, Flogas supplies two

The Original Mobile Gas Heater Leading Brand - Highest Quality Full Range at Competitive Prices

Nationwide After Sales Service Modern Design With Latest Safety Features Backed By National Advertising & Promotions

In this chilly current climate, your customers will be looking for new ways to heat their homes this winter. So why not offer them a super snug alternative? Super economical, super efficient and exclusive from Flogas, Superser is the simplest way to heat any room in an instant.

To order call Flogas on 041 9831041 info@flogas.ie

www.flogas.ie

The new home of Superser

September09Fuels

Flogas is one of Ireland’s largest suppliers of bottled gas which it markets via a nationwide network of dealers within Ireland.

very contemporary looking and stylish mobile heaters, the Superser Radiant and Superser Catalytic. In particular, the Superser Catalytic burns without a flame and has lower touch temperatures, making it safer, and it’s fitted with easy glide castors, which allows for trouble-free moving from room to room. Another big development of interest to retailers is the recent announcement earlier this year of the Flogas move into the commercial natural gas market nationwide. It is currently offering businesses a 15% saving on the price charged by Bord Gais Energy Supply for its natural gas. Flogas entered the natural gas market following its deregulation a few years ago and has been supplying natural gas via the existing Bord Gais Networks pipeline to over 11,000 homes in the North-East, Midlands and the West. “Our guaranteed 15% price saving on the price currently charged by Bord Gais Energy Supply is the most competitive offer in the marketplace for business customers and this has been reflected in a large number of high-profile new customer signings, including Nature’s Best in Drogheda,” stated Eoin O’Flynn. Gas fires have become a very fashionable lifestyle choice for 34

cylinders in a discreet corner of their back garden a very practical alternative,” said Eoin O’Flynn. Professional chefs always prefer to cook on gas and Flogas customer Neven Maguire of MacNean House & Bistro, Blacklion, Co. Cavan, said “Many people are opting for gas to cook up tasty dishes for family and friends as it offers clean and controllable heat.” As the population around major urban centres continues to spread into surrounding counties, so too has the growth of restaurants and other eateries all looking for gas and driving sales of propane cylinders. A nationwide network of Flogas aftersales personnel are on 24-hour call for appliance repairs and maintenance. Flogas supports all its products, services and plans through innovative dealer promotions, excellent point of sale material, targeted advertising and public relations. See www.flogas. ie for more information.

consumers around the country. The solution for those homeowners who are not on the natural gas grid is to have it piped in from their own back Bord Na Mona garden using stand-alone propane Bord Na Mona Fuels Ltd, the largcylinders. Two are usually installed est supplier of solid fuel on the Irish with an automatic changeover device, market, leads the way in developing so when one cylinder runs out, the convenience products to the meet the customer can phone for a replacement demands of today’s busy lifestyles. cylinder. Flogas operates a nationwide Particularly popular is Bord network of distributors in strategic Na Mona’s ‘Eco Friendly Fuels’ locations to ensure constant and range, which includes Premium speedy deliveries direct to customers, Wood Pellets, Bord Na Mona Wood whatever the weather. Logs, Bord Na Mona Eco Friendly “Propane direct dealers have been reporting strong annual sales growth and many of our customers want the benefits of gas in the home for fires and cooking but are either not on the natural gas grid or don’t want to go through the hassle of changing, so Bord Na Mona Eco Friendly Wood Logs are proving find propane a real hit with consumers.

W E

FUELS NEW to the Bord Na M贸na Convenience Range of Fuels #LEAN #ONVENIENT TO 5SE s .ATIONAL !DVERTISING 02 #AMPAIGN #!,, /52 &5%,3 (/4,).% /. 1850 744 755

September09Fuels

Hugely popular, Bord Na Mona Firelogs now claim leadership of the Firelogs market in Ireland.

alternative, as they are also easy and quick to light. Besides being one of the largest suppliers of private label Firelighters on the Irish market, Bord Na Mona also manufactures and sells top quality Firelighters under the Bord Na Mona brand. Recently introduced was the Bord Na Mona individually wrapped firelighter made from Irish peat.

groups and independent retailers, while rivalling the two leading brands in Ireland. Over 70% of households have open fires and the ignition sector is one of the fastest growing sectors in the household category. The Homestead fuels range consists of two skus of firelighters, 30’s and 60’s, and a 1.1kg Firelog which was introduced to the range in early 2005.

Homestead Fire logs account for 25% of total Homestead fuel sales and are growing at 17% year on year.

Homestead

Bord Na Mona Eco Friendly Firelighters are made from natural renewable resources.

Firelighters and Bord Na Mona Eco Friendly Real Logs, all made from natural renewable resources. The company have invested in extensive marketing activities to support their products, with wellpresented merchandising units for easy display in-store. As a result, they have experienced year on year growth with their compact, and easy to display, solid fuel products - Firepak, Firelogs and Firelighters. Hugely popular, Bord Na Mona Firelogs now claim leadership of the Firelogs market in Ireland. More recently, the launch of Firepak has captured the convenience, real-fire market. A quick and innovative solution, consumers simply place Firepak in the fire grate and light the pack. Both products are now seen as essential for all retailers to stock, while Peat Briquettes offer an 36

After the launch of the Homestead brand in 1986, the firelighter range quickly became a stable product within the brand’s portfolio, generating considerable sales in this category. It is estimated that Homestead fuels account for 53% of total fuels sales within symbol

Homestead Fuels continue to grow at 4.9% year on year. Firelogs are the largest contributor to this growth, accounting for 25% of total Homestead fuel sales and growing at 17% year on year. Firelighter sales now account for 51% of the total fuel sales in Ireland, and Homestead Firelighters continue to grow in line with the market. This September will bring a fresh look to the Homestead Fuels range in the form of new packaging and also the launch of a The hugely popular New Wrapped Firelighter. Homestead firelighter “The continued range, one of the star performance of the performers in the Homestead brand in such Homestead portfolio. a competitive market is a phenomenal result and gives a true insight into the core foundation of the brand’s existence, to bring value home,” noted Homestead Brand Manager, Janice Gibney.

WIN A SUPERSER HEATER FROM Now the exclusive distributor of Superser heaters in Ireland! The ‘Super’ big news this Autumn and Winter is that Flogas has now become the exclusive distributor for Superser mobile heaters in Ireland and the UK. To celebrate the news, Flogas is offering you the chance to win a Superser heater of your choice in both the September and October issues of Retail News. Superser is the original and still the bestselling mobile heater in Ireland and retailers looking to stock up on Superser mobile heaters for winter will be now able to source them exclusively from Flogas on 041-9831041 or www.flogas.ie For instant, controllable heat that’s both stylish and cost-effective, Flogas supplies the Superser Radiant and Superser Catalytic. In particular, the Superser Catalytic burns without a flame and has lower touch temperatures, making it safer. It’s also fitted with easy glide castors, which allows for trouble-free moving from room to room. To be in with a chance to win the Superser heater for September, simply answer the question below and send your answer, along with your name, address & daytime telephone number to retailnews@tarapublishingco.com or on a postcard to Flogas Superser Competition, Tara Publishing, Poolbeg House, 1-2 Poolbeg Street, Dublin 2.

Q: Name one of the Superser mobile heaters supplied by Flogas. Closing date 2nd Oct 2009. Judges decision is ﬁnal.

LIFT YOUR SALES WITH easyLIFT September 2009 sees easyLIFT back on the shelves for the forthcoming Winter Season. easyLIFT takes the hassle out of lifting any strapped item. No more broken nails or sore ﬁngers! Ideally suited for lifting bales of briquettes or any baled fuel, it can also be used for lifting bales of newspapers, magazines, paper etc. In fact, any item that is packaged with a strap can easily be carried using easyLIFT. A green easyLIFT has been added to this year’s range, going along with the existing black version. Both are made from recycled plastic. The easyLIFT Point of Sale materials and presentation have been completely upgraded for the coming season. Now packaged in an attractive counter-top display box, containing 20 easyLIFTs, each easyLIFT comes on a hanging header card suitable for hook or strip display. Each counter-top display box has a removable perforated front and a small footprint of approx 135mm wide x 83mm deep. This box design makes easyLIFT ideal for countertop display. The box is 223mm high. Mini stick-on posters highlighting “easyLIFT: Available In Store” have also been prepared. These are suitable for Door/Window display and also for display on outdoor fuel bunkers. easyLIFT offers extra sales and margin to retailers in the briquette/fuels sales category. It is certainly a product that no retailer should be without stocking for the coming winter. easyLIFT has already proven its popularity this year, winning First Prize in the National Inventions Competition held at this year’s Tullamore Show.

UÊ -Õ Ì>L iÊv ÀÊ vÌ }Ê-ÌÀ>««i`Ê Ìi Ã eg. Bales of Fuel, Paper, Bottles etc.

Increase Margin on Briquettes!

UÊ Û> >L iÊ Ê >V ÊEÊGreen. UÊ Õnter Top and Hanging display formats easyLIFT is another Innovative Product from Galway based Hanno Plastics, who previously appeared on Dragons Den for their Strapwinder Invention. Distributed by ARK DIY Products Limited, easyLIFT is available now from sales@arkdiyproducts.com Tel: 086 833 0882 or Fax 091-521859.

September09Credit

Card Security

Better Safe than Sorry American wireless security firm Airmagnet announce Waveform Solutions as their only Irish Airmagnet partner, offering retailers protection from credit card fraud.

Any

company large or small that processes credit card transactions has to demonstrate compliance with PCI (payment card industry) regulations. Data protection is a key concern for retailers, with security guidelines becoming tighter as a result of pressure from banks and credit card companies. With identity theft and criminal hackers on the rise, it is imperative that Irish companies implement systems which will protect them and their customers. Retailers are now also obliged to capture and protect data stored and transmitted from in-store Point of Sale (POS) systems. Although this seems like a daunting task, Waveform Solutions, based in Celbridge, Co. Kildare, have a new package designed to meet these challenges. Established in 1988, Waveform Solutions have garnered a reputation as one of the leading mobile solutions and data capture companies in Ireland. Their reputation has been cemented with the recent announcement by American company Airmagnet Inc., a leader in security performance and compliance solutions, that Waveform are to be their only Irish Airmagnet partner. This means that Waveform Solutions can offer the full suite of Airmagnet products which are designed to tackle this challenge at an affordable price. This new partnership is another coup for the company, which has gone through some exciting changes, including a management buyout by Alan Carroll, Managing Director, and Phillip Moore, Technical Director, earlier this year.

Reducing the Burden The Airmagnet suite of products includes a powerful combination of configuration assessment and file integrity. It reduces the burden of attaining and proving continuous PCI compliance. Firstly, Airmagnet assesses relevant configurations in the data centre and at the point of sale. Then the system will alert the retailer to settings out of line with PCI requirements. Once the retailer has adjusted configurations, Airmagnet’s file integrity monitoring ensures that they are in compliance. This solution can also assess configurations of the entire physical and virtual IT infrastructure, identifying any settings that don’t align with the PCI standard; and provide assistance so IT can quickly fix outof-compliance settings. It can also monitor the system continuously so that any changes can be detected and then it can generate an audit trail that can be used to prove continuous compliance.

Protecting Customers Alan Carroll, MD of Waveform Solutions, says, “Waveform Solutions are delighted that Airmagnet have appointed us as their only Irish partner. The recent news of a US Government informant selling on details of millions of accounts to criminals is believed to have affected a small number of Irish account holders. Undoubtedly, this kind of crime is on the rise. Our system can protect retailers and customers from these threats. It will also help retailers comply with all PCI regulations.”

In terms of the retail sector, Waveform Solutions have provided systems to some of the country’s leading retailers and are currently working on various projects within this market. They also operate an ongoing support system for clients so that problems and issues can be resolved rapidly by their highly trained and skilled technical team. Alan suggests that retailers large or small who are worried that their businesses may not be complying with PCI standards should call Waveform Solutions in order to set up a meeting. Alan and his team will run through the suite of Airmagnet solutions and find the best solution. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry. For more information please see www.waveform.ie and to set up a meeting call (01) 6544234.

September09Canned

Food

Can Alive Satisfying consumer demand for convenience and quality, canned foods are a staple of the modern grocery store.

While

consumers have been using canned or tinned products for generations, the scope and quality of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s canned products are far superior to their earlier incarnations. Indeed, the figures belie the image of canned food as a very mature sector, with the market for canned food in Ireland increasing between 20012006, growing at an average annual rate of 1.8%, and the entire sector is valued in excess of â&#x201A;Ź120m. Irish consumers love canned products for their convenience, long shelf-life and quality, and manufacturers are responding with improved offerings across a host of categories, including canned fish/seafood, desserts, meat products, pasta & noodles, vegetables, fruit and ready meals. Perhaps the biggest growth area, however, is that of canned soup, which has contributed significantly to overall category growth, thanks to a combination of tasty new varieties, its ability to reposition itself as a snack product and the gradual de-seasonalisation of soup in general. Sales of canned fish products, however, are also performing well, particularly as consumers pick up on their health benefits. Another factor operating in favour of cans is the growth of desk dining, as increasing numbers of consumers bring their lunch to work. Here again, canned soup and fish products are proving particularly popular. 40

John West has been sold in Ireland since 1964 and has grown to market leader in that time.

John West John West has been sold in Ireland since 1964 and has grown to market leader in that time. Ireland is considered to be the strongest market in the world for John West and the decision was taken to establish a stand-alone and locally registered operation named Irish Seafood Investment Ltd. Initially developed only as a trading entity, ISI Ltd has grown and developed into a strong and vibrant operation which has created 10 new jobs directly in Ireland since 2006 and employs many more indirectly through out-sourced functions and supports in its many trading partners. With offices based in Dun Laoghaire, the John West Team in Ireland is directly responsible for the sales, marketing and financial operations in the 32 counties of Ireland and

Ireland is considered to be the strongest market in the world for John West.

indirectly manages the logistics and supply chain to customers through the nominated distribution partner. John West has been selecting the best, most succulent fish for its customers for over 140 years, with a broad range of healthy, natural products, including tuna, salmon, mackerel and sardines, which are currently sourced from over 30 countries around the world, including Ireland. Product quality is the cornerstone that John West has built its reputation on and the company has a dedicated Quality Assurance team constantly monitoring this and ensuring food safety. Sustainability is now probably the single most important challenge facing the fishing industry in Ireland and across the globe. John West takes its responsibility to ensuring continuity of fish stocks for future generations very seriously. The selection procedure in appointing suppliers is rigorous and the John West policy dictates that they will only purchase fish which is caught with no harm to the marine environment. John West is committed to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and fully support the regional fisheries management regimes espoused by it. John West does not use

September09Canned

Food

egory and its status as the undisputed brand leader in tinned pasta.

Blue Fin Tuna (endangered species) in any of its products. All other Tuna products are produced using Skip Jack Tuna, which has not been highlighted as an endangered species. The responsibility of all stakeholders in the seafood business (including consumers) is to conduct ourselves in a manner that ensures continuity and availability for all future generations and no one is more committed to this than John West.

Batchelors

Heinz HJ Heinz boasts a vast range of canned foods, from the iconic Heinz Baked Beanz to Heinz Ready to Serve Soups, Heinz Spaghetti, Heinz Sponge Puddings, the Weight Watchers from Heinz range and so many more. As one of the world’s largest producers of tinned foods, the Heinz brand is synonymous with quality and taste among consumers worldwide.

Heinz Baked Beanz underwent a label redesign in the latter part of 2008.

In Ireland, perhaps the most famous of Heinz tinned products is Heinz Baked Beanz, which, having undergone a label redesign in the latter part of 2008, is available in three sizes plus a Reduced Sugar and Salt variety, each with easy-open ring pull. Heinz Cream of Tomato Soup is unquestionably the most popular in the range of convenient Heinz Ready to Serve Soups. The Heinz Farmers Market range of delicious soups, made with selected ingredients and inspired by farmers’ markets, has contributed to the growth of Heinz’ share of the buoyant Irish soup mar42

Made with Multigrain pasta, Heinz Spaghetti claims definitive brand leadership, with Heinz Spaghetti Hoops one of the star performers.

Batchelors claims leadership of Ireland’s canned Baked Beans, Peas and Pulses sector, with an impressive 64% value share of the Baked Beans sector in Ireland (Source: ACNielsen, Beans Scantrack Report, July 2009). Two out of every three cans of Baked Beans purchased in Ireland are Batchelors Beans, while four out of every five cans of Processed Peas purchased are Batchelors Peas. Batchelors is made in Dublin and has been since 1935. It is home to Ireland’s finest and most loved baked beans and peas. Batchelors is proud to support the ‘Love Irish Food’ Initiative, which seeks to promote Irish food brands in the Republic of Ireland. What makes Batchelors Beans so popular? It could be the secret recipe of the rich tomato sauce…or because they are nutritious, convenient and simply delectable. What makes Batchelors Peas so special? It could be the fact that they are grown by Irish pea farmers. Batchelors is proud to support and sustain local jobs and economy, employing over 230 people directly, while also contributing to significant downstream employment in Ireland. Batchelors continues to meet and exceed the needs of the market with a wide range of product sizes and varieties to suit all households. In response to a growing trend of bulk-buying, Batchelors offers attractive promotions in-store on multi-packs.

ket since launch. In a larger 515g can, Heinz Farmers Market soups offer generous portions of traditional style recipes, including Chicken & Country Vegetable and Lamb & Root Vegetable. Heinz also offers the popular range of tinned Weight Watchers from Heinz Soups. This product comes in 295g and 400g tins with each variety clearly indicating its Weight Watchers points value. The Weight Watchers from Heinz tinned range also includes Baked Beans, Pasta Meals and Spaghetti. Heinz is continuously expanding and updating its range of tinned spaghetti products in response to childrens’ ever-changing tastes. Made with multigrain pasta, Heinz Spaghetti claims definitive brand leadership, with Heinz Spaghetti and Heinz Spaghetti Hoops being the category’s strongest performers. Heinz Alphabetti Spaghetti is also an important part of the Heinz range, available in both a 205g and 400g size. Consistently popular licences within the Heinz pasta shapes range, including Bob the Builder, Dora and Winnie the Pooh, illustrate The iconic Batchelors brand is quintessentially Irish, and is Heinz’ commitproud to support the ‘Love Irish Food’ Initiative, which seeks ment to the catto promote Irish food brands in the Republic of Ireland.

28 - 30 September 2009, RDS Simmonscourt, Dublin 4 In a tough economic market, SHOP provides you with the opportunity to test the latest innovations, taste the best products and find ways to take control of your profits. Whatever your retail business, SHOP, with over 200 exhibitors, awards, demonstrations and competitions, will help to make more profit.

See the best & learn from the best: s s s s s s s s s

)NTERNATIONAL #HEESE !WARDS !SSOCIATION OF #RAFT "UTCHERS OF )RELAND "ARISTA #OMPETITION $EMONSTRATION n 3EMINARS 0RODUCT OF THE 3HOW !WARDS &ORECOURT 3(/0 &RESH 3(/0 %NERGY -ANAGEMENT 0AVILION $ESIGN $OCTORS 3(/0 #3.! )NFORMATION 0AVILION

Pre-Registration Ticket Free in this issue of Retail News

OPENING TIMES FOR SHOP Mon 28th September: 10am - 6pm Tue 29

Wed 30

September: 10am - 6pm September: 10am - 5pm

For updates, see www.shopexhibition.com

Opening the Doors to New Business SHOP 2009, which takes place from September 28-30 in the RDS Simmonscourt, Dublin, is a melting pot of ideas for people in the food, drink and retail sectors and is the ‘one stop SHOP’ show for 2009.

a time when getting the most for your money has never been more important, SHOP - the show for Ireland’s food, drink and retail sectors - is shaping up to be a one-stopshop for the best businesses in the industry. SHOP 2009 will showcase hundreds of top exhibitors, launch innovative products and be the platform for international competitions, awards, seminars and workshops that you simply cannot afford to miss. “Trust is the buzz word of the moment with retailers wishing to do business with companies whom they know and believe in,” comments Garret Buckley, Joint Managing 44

Pictured are (l-r): Garrett Buckley, Joint Managing Director of Expo Events; Hugh Maguire, President, and Pat Brady, Chief Executive, Associated Craft Butchers of Ireland.

Director of Expo Events (organisers of the show). “In the current economic climate, there is a definite trend of customers returning to products that are traceable. Irish businesses

want to support their fellow local businesses and artisans and SHOP offers this opportunity, showcasing the fantastic produce and services that are on our doorstep,”

Display Specialists Ltd DISPLAY Specialists Ltd have all you need for window and interior display solutions: digital signage, lightboxes, information display, poster holders, cable and rod displays, Italian glass counters & showcases. Call today for a free quotation or visit their showrooms in Greenogue Business Park for inspirational display ideas. Nationwide installation service available. Tel: 01 4018106 Web: www.display.ie Stand Number: E11

Mood Media MOOD Media create customised music and radio programmes to enhance any shopping experience. Mood Media also provides visual solutions, including graphics, custom animations and branded TV stations for companies who wish to communicate the right message to the right audience at the right time. Tel: 01 2847244 Web: www.moodmedia.com Stand Executives: Rose Macari, John Sheehan & Barry Kingston. Stand No: C11 SHOP 2009 includes new products, innovations in the industry, a host of creative and effective seminars and real industry solutions that will help to drive your business forward. SHOP has been specifically developed to address the current climate we’re all operating in. SHOP will be packed full of retail solutions, new products and innovations which will deliver more value than ever before to your business. The introduction of the Energy Management Pavilion has been designed to help businesses lower costs, whilst reducing their carbon footprint, while other special features at SHOP this year include the Association of Craft Butchers in Ireland, while the show also welcomes back Forecourt @ SHOP, Ireland’s only dedicated petrol and forecourt retailing exhibition.

National Sausage and Puddings Finals For the first time, the National Sausage and Puddings Finals will take place at SHOP. “This year is the 10th anniversary of the Associated Craft Butchers of Ireland and we will be marking the occasion at SHOP in September,” noted Dave Lang, Project and Development Officer, Associated Craft Butchers of Ireland. “We have 15 trainees who have qualified and will be FETAC certified following their training under ACBI’s Retail Butchering Training Program. We are holding our National Sausage and Pudding competition

and Specialty Foods finals at SHOP and are also launching an advanced HACCP Training Program which will be FETAC certified. Our aim at SHOP is to make visitors aware of the craft of butchery and the benefits of joining the Association.”

Hundreds of Exhibitors With hundreds of exhibitors attending the 2009 show, there are high hopes for new business leads and contacts. Demonstrating the diverse nature of the exhibitors at SHOP, RETAIL NEWS caught up with some of this year’s exhibitors to discuss their plans for the show.

The National Sausage and Puddings Finals will take place at SHOP 2009 for the first time.

Crossgar Foodservice CROSSGAR Foodservice strives to provide the foodservice market throughout the island of Ireland with a genuine one stop shop. They offer an extensive range of ambient, chilled, frozen, and non-food items, built around a core of locally produced products. Tel: 01 8030555 Web: www.crossgar.ie Stand Number: D14 & E14

Michael Murphy, Commercial Controller of Irwin’s Bakery commented, “In these belt-tightening times, we know that shoppers are turning to trusted brands which they can rely on for good quality, hearty products.” Commenting on the new products that Retail Systems Technology will be showcasing at SHOP, Ciaran Coyle, Sales & Marketing Manager for RST said, “Throughout the ‘credit crunch’, business has been quite good for RST. In this difficult time for many businesses, it has never been so important to keep on top of costs and operations and in this respect, EPOS systems have been somewhat of a godsend for some of our customers. The reality is that fewer purchases can have as dramatic an effect on a business as a carefully selected EPOS system and in some cases, it can mean the difference between success and failure. “Our EPOS systems are designed to streamline operations, integrating features such as stock and account management, time and attendance and also implementing security features such as biometric fingerprint and vein recognition as a means of user sign on – thereby virtually eliminating staff theft or skimming and increasing profits. “At SHOP, we hope to demonstrate the power and ease of use of our EPOS systems and show visitors how they can prove to be a truly worthwhile investment in terms of maximising profits and ensuring that your business continues to thrive.” North Dublin company, Country Crest, is looking forward to the show and unveiling its ‘new coat of arms’. The company will proudly

Hommy Ireland HOMMY Ireland are main distributors of a huge range of ice cream machines, slush machines, hot food counters,hot chocolate dispensers and popcorn machines. Tel: Ken on 086 8066583 or Peter on 086 8211761 Email: hommyireland@gmail.com Stand Number: G19

Dee’s DEE’S range of organic wholefood burgers, manufactured in West Cork, are freshly made, gluten free and suitable for vegetarians. These burgers are perfect for popping in a pitta at lunchtime and are easy to prepare, convenient and, most importantly, nourishing. Varieties in stores now include the Spicy Bean Burger and the Omega Burger, a nutritional powerhouse packed full of wholegrains, superseeds and tasty fresh vegetables. Tel : 086 0831500 Web: www.dees.ie Stand Number: F5 (CEB Stand)

unveil its new brand identity at SHOP this year, which will be visible on its showcasing range of meal accompaniments, including the bestselling Baby Garlic Potatoes, Potato Croquettes and Creamy Mash. As a leading producer of chilled ready meals in Ireland, Country Crest is the company that manufactures not alone the award-winning Cully & Sully prepared meal range – but also the best-selling own-brand meals that walk off the shelves of Dunnes Stores

automatic grease skimmers, The Grease Guardian, and Passive Grease Total Visitors: 4,389 over 3 days Traps in Ireland and internationally Multiples 2% for the past 18 Wholesale 17.2% years. We will have Symbol Groups 6.6% internationally Independent Grocers 24.9% tried and tested Forecourt 5.6% methods of Grease Delicatessens 3.9% Management for Newsagents 3.8% the new Irish Restaurants 5.4% Standard in SHOP Pubs 2.9% 2009 and look Hotels 1.6% forward to the Cafes 6.6% response. “Our hope for Satisfaction with show: - 96% found their visit either worthwhile or very worth- SHOP 2009 is to inform visitors of while. new NSAI Standard - 92% plan to return in 2009. to come into effect - 79% either purchased at the show or will purchase as towards the end of a result of their visit to the show. 2009 on Fats, Oils - 24% spent between 2-3 hours at the show. & Grease (FOG) - 18% spent between 3-4 hours. Management and - 33% spent over 4 hours visiting the show. to also introduce the New Rainwater Reason for visiting SHOP: Harvesting - 59% to meet new buyers. Solutions we have - 36% to meet existing suppliers. for 2009. As always, - 71% see new products. we aim to offer - 38% to visit awards, including Cheese, Organic and value for money, Product Awards peace-of-mind service contracts for all equipment and to secure and Superquinn in their thousands new contracts with National Retail every day. Visitors to the show will Accounts and independent shop see a selection of these and also enjoy the opportunity to leave with an extra good taste in their mouth through sampling a medley of meal accompaniments and ready meals.

Facts from SHOP 2008

owners, while catching up with our existing customers at SHOP.”

County Enterprise Boards One of the largest areas at SHOP will be occupied by the County Enterprise Boards. Headed up by Wicklow County Enterprise Board, over 40 artisan producers will be on show at the CEB stand, introducing their quality produce to thousands of visitors. “We are delighted that once again the County & City Enterprise Boards are hosting a Food Village at the SHOP exhibition,” noted Michael Tunney, Chairperson of the Network of County & City Enterprise Boards. “There will be over 40 client companies exhibiting, offering an outstanding display of the best that Irish food producers have to offer. The hallmark of these companies is the extremely high quality and level of innovation they bring to an extraordinary range of exciting new products, in all categories from organic oils and spices to fresh juices, handmade sausages to hand rolled sushi. With more than 16 counties represented, the stand offers buyers the opportunity to see the latest and most interesting range of new artisan food and drink products offered by professional Irish companies across the country.” The County Enterprise Boards is one of the largest stands at

The Green Agenda Green Waste Solutions will also be in attendance at the show. The company’s Olga McNulty explains what will be on the agenda for them at SHOP this year: “Fats, oils and grease are the new buzz-words for 2010. The National Standards Authority of Ireland is currently drafting a new standard for the design, supply, installation and maintenance of fats, oils and grease management for foodservice establishments throughout Ireland to be released at the end of 2009. “FM Environmental Ltd have been manufacturing, supplying and maintaining their range of 48

One of the largest areas at SHOP will be occupied by the County Enterprise Boards, where over 40 artisan producers will be on show.

SHOP and the CEB theme for 2009 is ‘Farmer’s Market’. Visually, the stand will present a charming cobble-stone village, with the artisan producers showcasing their fine foods.

Dolmen Systems ESTABLISHED 15 years, Dolmen Systems is your choice for security systems, services and solutions. Based in Link Business Park, Kilcullen Co. Kildare, Dolmen Systems is a family run business, which pays special attention to your security needs. Now more than ever, great importance needs to be placed on your store’s security requirements. Dolmen Systems can bring peace of mind to you, your staff and your customers with CCTV Systems, Digital Tagging Systems, Safes & Anti-Hold-Up Units. They offer systems which will alarm when required but will also provide added value such as footfall counts & store management data. In addition to security systems, they also provide Digital Signage Systems which allow your customer to view in-store messages and information, while also providing advertising opportunities for your products and clients. They promise to deliver on function and on price. So why choose Dolmen? It’s an Irish-owned company that can tailor a security system to suit your needs and budget, supplying a range of quality products which include CCTV, Safes, Digital Tagging Systems and more, with a proven record based on years of excellent service and customer relations.

Mileeven Fine Foods BASED in Co. Kilkenny for the past 21 years, Mileeven Fine Foods supplies premium honey and speciality honey products, organic and standard preserves, cakes and Christmas products. Mileeven has won many Great Taste Awards and the SHOP Award for Innovation. Mileeven supplies to retail, catering and hamper companies. Mileeven is taking part in the new Love Irish Food campaign, along with 24 other quality Irish brands. Tel: 051 643368 Web: www.mileeven.com Stand Number: F2-G2 7/8 (Kilkenny Enterprise Board)

New products for this year are Spanish Flavour, Pottle Meats, Natasha’s Living Food, Goatsbridge Troutfarm and Cupcakes by Katie. So from chocolate producers to icecream to cheese, there is something for everyone at the County Enterprise Stand this year.

Newcomers From Northern Ireland Seven of the 11 Northern Ireland food and drink companies taking

part in SHOP 2009 will be pitching for business at the industry’s biggest exhibition for the first time. Visitors will be able to sample the products of these newcomers, ranging from natural artesian spring water and organic vegetables to filled wraps to stuffed mushrooms on the Northern Ireland Naturally stands D14 & E14. Organising the presentations is Invest Northern Ireland, the region’s business development agency, which has supported the show from its inception.

Most of the participating companies already have customers in the Republic and are keen to expand sales, such as Irwin’s of Portadown, while others are newcomers like Cloughbane Farm Foods, Unimush and Antrim Hills Spring Water.

Forecourt @ SHOP

your customers’ retail experience is a positive one and to stay one step ahead of the competition, a visit to the SHOP Exhibition is a must.”

Energy Management Pavilion @ SHOP Ironically, the rise in energy costs and the need to cut running costs have coincided, leaving businesses with a deficit that urgently needs to be

addressed. The Energy Management Pavilion does just this. It will demonstrate how simple measures can make a substantial impact to a business: lowering costs and reducing the business’ carbon footprint. Retailers will be encouraged to question their current providers and will be pointed towards real alternatives and management systems which will result in concrete financial savings.

Fuelling Ireland’s biggest food, drink and forecourt event of the year, Forecourt @ SHOP is Ireland’s only dedicated petrol and forecourt retailing exhibition. It will be home to leading suppliers of pumps, washes, canopies, environmental services, EPOS systems, signage and design. The Irish Petrol Retailers Association has joined forces with Expo Events and Mercury Events – organisers of SHOP - to ensure that SHOP is the show for the 1,250 forecourts across Ireland, north and south. “We are delighted to be associated with this premier event for the retail sector,” notes David Blevings, Media Spokesperson for the Irish Petrol Retailers Association. “The forecourt of the traditional filling station has changed dramatically over recent years with grocery/ Pictured are (l-r): Killian Byrne, from Mercury Events, and off licence and hot food-to-go David Blevings, Media Spokesperson for the Irish Petrol Retailers Association, launching now common place. To ensure Forecourt @ SHOP.

Network Video Leasing NETWORK Video Leasing (NVL), based in Loughlinstown Industrial Estate, Ballybrack, Co. Dublin, is Ireland’s leading supplier of DVDs and computer video games to a variety of retail symbol groups, as well as a significant number of individually owned convenience stores throughout the Republic of Ireland. NVL is a subsidiary company within the Pilton Group, which is wholly owned by DCC, the Irish & UK stock market quoted corporation. Based in South County Dublin, NVL employs a dedicated and professional team of field based service representatives, and office based support staff. They offer a wide selection of ‘tailored packages’, designed to suit individual client’s specific needs, these providing a one-stop solution for the Home Entertainment category or consumer offering in-store. Their packages provide options for a rental consumer offering, a retail offering or both. NVL hold exclusive rights to distribute & sell for a number of studios / labels in Ireland, including Paramount Pictures, Warner Home Video, Entertainment In Video, Abbey Studios, ITV Granada Enterprises and Momentum Pictures. They also distribute product for Walt Disney, Columbia, Universal Studios and 20th Century Fox. Regarding video games, NVL hold exclusive distribution rights for Disney Games, EA Games, THQ and Take Two, amongst others. NVL are in a position to negotiate commercially attractive offers and competitive prices from their suppliers, which they use to support their trading parthers – i.e. you. Tel: 01 2826444 Email: network@ncv.ie Stand Number: F23

A hand-picked team of experts will offer unbiased advice on how to map where the key and high energy consumption areas are in your business and suggest alternative methods that could substantially reduce energy costs. “SHOP’s Energy Management Pavilion will challenge retailers to take stock of their current energy providers and understand where the heavy energy loads are within their businesses,” explains Garret Buckley, Joint Managing Director of Expo Events. “This is the first step in understanding how efficient or inefficient key areas such as refrigeration, lighting, and equipment within the deli counter are. There are many new energy efficient solutions on the market now that deliver real savings to retailers and a visit to the Energy Management Pavilion will highlight the options currently available.” In association with SEI and consultants Resourcekraft, the Energy Management Pavilion will

address the issues and solutions facing all retailers in the food, drink, retail and forecourt industries.

Design Doctors @ SHOP With a wealth of experience in the retail design sector spanning the USA and Europe, SHOP will host Celine Cummins at the 2009 event. Celine’s expertise is in retail

design, where she has worked globally for brands and retailers, demonstrating how visual mechanising can improve the bottom line. Simply bring along a picture of your store interior or exterior and Celine will advise you how to maximise your selling space. Best of all, this service is complimentary to visitors to SHOP!

WHEN A PUMP IS NOT ‘JUST A PUMP’ Pay@Pump The only Fuel Dispenser with approved outdoor payment for AIB, Barclay’s, VISA & Mastercard. Reduce Drive-offs and increase throughput with pre-pay options. E.g. Reduce drive-offs losses by 70% per annum - Save €15,000

TQM ‘Non Drift’ Meter Decrease fuel loss and enjoy signiﬁcant cost savings. Reduced recalibration costs and faster fuel throughput help you serve more customers in less time. E.g. Save up to 7,000 litres of fuel a year if you dispense 3.500,000

Standard Temperature Accounting (STA) Fully approved technology allows you to dispense your fuel at 15°c. The temperature coefﬁcient of Fuel is 0.1%. This ensures you won’t be at a loss from ‘hot’ deliveries. E.g. If you dispense 3,500,000 litres per annum you could save €19,250

Visit us at SHOP Exhibition on stand A14

T: 01 461 9800 W: forecourtsystems.com (new!) E: hello@forecourtsystems.com

Retail Clinic THIS highly anticipated addition to SHOP provides exhibitors with frank and practical business support in the tough current climate. Widely respected retail expert James Burke will lead the programme, supported by a number of industry leaders, all offering educational seminars, problem solving techniques and invaluable advice. You will learn how to get the edge on your competitors, generate new business, cut costs and much more.

Fresh @ SHOP Changing customer buying habits and increased dining at home has led to an increase in the purchase of fresh produce. SHOP 2009 will play host to a showcase of suppliers’ fresh and healthy produce. So whether you’re looking for tropical fruits or crisp apples, the freshest suppliers will be on-hand at Fresh @ SHOP.

International Cheese Awards 2009 The SHOP International Cheese Awards are now firmly established as the major event in Ireland for

the cheese industry. This follows on from last year’s World Cheese Olympics – the first time the event was ever held in Ireland. Building on the success of last year’s event, the International Cheese Awards will feature hundreds of cheeses from across the globe, with everything from small cottage based producers to large commercial creameries submitting their cheeses for the top awards. The competition provides a showcase for visitors and professionals to view and sample first-hand the tremendous variety of cheeses now available in Ireland.

Seminars 1. Effective Promotions: How to Harness them to Drive Sales – James Burke 2. Loyalty Schemes and Do They have a Place in Today’s Environment – James Burke 3. Customer Service in an Undifferentiated Market – James Burke 4. Interior Shop Design - How to Make the Most of Your Premises – Celine Cummins

Product of the Show Awards A firm favourite at SHOP, the Product of the Show Awards highlight the ‘best of’ products available at the event. Watch out for the accolades on exhibitors’ stands as they point to companies who have gone the extra mile in terms of their product quality, innovation, packaging and price.

Quality and Value at SHOP 2009 This year, more than ever before, the emphasis from exhibitors will be on offering value, increased product choice and retail solutions for businesses. Exhibitions reflect the culture of doing business in Ireland where relationships are key. SHOP offers visitors the chance to network with peers, strike excellent face-to-face deals, locate new products and avail of experts who will advise on everything from the merchandising of stores to creative promotions.

The International Cheese Awards at SHOP: the major event in Ireland for the cheese industry. 52

To register your interest in SHOP, contact Expo Events on 01 295 8181 or log onto www.shopexhibition.com

www.anuga.com

OATFIELD SWEETS RE-LAUNCH Oatfield Sweets have just re-launched their New Bag Range. Iconic brands like Emerald, Colleen, Orange Chocolate and Eskimo Mints have received a facelift which sees the new range stylishly brought up-to-date whilst retaining the core brand characteristics of tradition and heritage. Established in Letterkenny in 1927, Oatfield Sweets continue to be manufactured there today in the same traditional fashion. Adored by Irish consumers, Oatfield have maintained a strong link with their consumer through tradition, nostalgia and high quality confectionery. To coincide with the re-launch of the bag range, Oatfield are also launching their new range of gifting tins, which offer the consumer the opportunity to give the gift of Ireland’s favourite sweets in a premium embossed kilner style reusable tin. The re-launch will be supported with above and below the line advertising, trade and consumer promotions and POS availability, including a high impact 14 prong display stand.

TASTE THE FUTURE

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Contact your local Cash & Carry or your Tennant & Ruttle Sales Rep on (01) 6231610 or email: info@tandr.ie for more information.

COLOGNE, 10 – 14. 10. 2009

The summit meeting for the world’s food & drink industry ! Ten dedicated trade shows, eight trend themes and an industry get-together that’s more inspiring than any other – Anuga. It is the world’s most important food & drink show for the trade at all levels as well as the food service and catering sectors. It’s the only venue where the entire global food and drink industry meets and benefits from the in-depth international contacts available. Do you want to achieve successful business in the future ? Then make sure you come to Anuga at Cologne in 2009 !

More information? No problem ! Phone +44 20 7566 6340 Fax +44 20 7566 6341 info@koelnmesse.co.uk Buy your admission ticket online now and save up to 43 % !

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September09Cereals

Bowled Over By Cereals Worth over €200m per annum, the Irish cereals market is one of the busiest categories in-store, with 97% of households purchasing cereals.

The hugely popular Special K brand, Kellogg’s star performer in value terms.

When

it comes to breakfast, there is no doubt that ready-to-eat cereal is the number one choice for Irish consumers. Here in Ireland, we eat more breakfast cereal than any other country in the world; at 8kg per head annually, that’s 2kg more than the UK, the world’s next biggest cereal eaters. 97% of Irish households purchase cereals (Source: Kellogg Consumption Study, 2008), with total value sales for the category worth over €200m in the Irish market (Source: ACNielsen MAT to July 12th 2009).

According to recent category segmentation research commissioned by Kellogg’s (Source: Landsdowne Cereal Category Segmentation Research, June 2009), despite the current

Together, these five Kellogg brands account for over 40% of all cereal sales in Ireland (Source: ACNielsen MAT to July 12, 2009). As the best supported cereal brands in the Irish marketplace, the Kellogg Big Five are guaranteed to perform and should therefore be given major prominence on the cereal aisle.

Kellogg’s The breakfast cereal aisle is a true destination shop for the vast majority of consumers, with Kellogg’s top of the list. Over 80% of all shopping baskets contain a Kellogg product: hardly surprising given that Kellogg brands account for five of the top six selling ready to eat cereal brands. So not only do Irish consumers love breakfast cereal, they also love Kellogg’s. 54

recessionary trends in many grocery categories where consumers are “deal chasing”, brand choice is still a primary driver in the decision-making process within the cereal category. The Kellogg ‘Big Five’ cereal brands in order of value performance are: 1. Kellogg’s Special K 2. Kellogg’s Corn Flakes 3. Kellogg’s Coco Pops 4. Kellogg’s Rice Krispies 5. Kellogg’s Crunchy Nut

Kelkin Kellogg’s Corn Flakes, a firm favourite with Irish consumers.

Breakfast still remains the most important meal of the day, according to the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic

When it comes to Breakfast, back the Kellogg Big Five

Best supported Cereal Brands in Ireland Account for over 40% of Cereal Sales* Big Profit Drivers *(Source: AC Nielsen MAT to July 12th 2009)

September09Cereals

interest and meet changing demands. health and nutriReacting to trends, Kelkin launched a tion, Kelkin opernew Oat Granola range in July of this ates a series of year, specially designed for granola free nutritional lovers with both health and value for classes with its money in mind. The range consists of consultant nutrithree mouth-watering variants: Kelkin tionist, Aveen Triple Berry, Tropical and Fruit & Bannon, to proNut. mote health and Kelkin Granolas are made in communicate Ireland, using only the finest quality simple mesingredients, which have been carefully sages such as the selected from around the world. Each importance of cereal is high in fibre, full of antioxibreakfast. Recent Kelkin’s range of mueslis contains no added sugar, and only classes have dants, contains no added salt and is natural ingredients, without compromising on taste. packed in convenient, re-sealable 500g focused on topical pouches, offering consumers quality issues, such as and value for money. So far, consumer ‘food and mood’, ‘the coeliac diet’ and Institute (Source: INDI January reaction has been excellent. The range ‘heart health’. Everyone is welcome 2008), for more than one reason. is being supported in press and with to attend – but as places are limited, Breaking the overnight fast is vital numerous promotions throughout the attendees will need to register at for kick-starting the brain and has year. For further information, check nutritionalclasses@kelkin.ie. been shown to improve mental ability out their website, www.kelkin.ie, or With the growing awareness during morning activities. A HSE contact the Kelkin sales office on 01 among Irish consumers of health report published in 2008 found the 4600400. issues, like obesity, and the imporfuture health of the Irish population Market data shows that the hot tance of a healthy diet, comes a is threatened by an obesity epidemic. cereal market is continuing to grow growing demand for a wider choice One in five Irish children are now with a MAT of 12.3% (Source: Total of healthy breakfast cereals. Kelkin obese (Source: National Taskforce on Scantrack, ROI, Mult/Grp/4CT, MAT, recognises the health issues facing Obesity Report, 2005). Something as April 19, 2009). The gluten free cereal the Irish population and unlike many simple as working eating breakfast market is no exception. Kelkin’s gluother breakfast cereal manufacturinto your daily routine can help ten free porridge sales are going from ers, have developed a muesli range to combat obesity. strength to strength each month. meet modern day demands. Kelkin’s The Nutrition and Health Maintaining its position as an innorange of mueslis contains no added Foundation (NHF) issued advice about vator within the ‘Free From’ arena, sugar, and only natural ingredients, the importance of breakfast and weight Kelkin intends to launch a new addiwithout compromising on taste. The control. “When we skip breakfast, tion to its existing Gluten Free Cereal tasty range, made in Ireland, consists there is a high tendency to snack and range of Muesli and Porridge this winof three variants: Kelkin Original graze instead,” Dr Muireann Cullen ter. Kelkin ensure they are meeting Muesli Fruit & Nut 1kg, Tropical reported. “High fibre foods give a suschanging consumer demands through Muesli 1kg and Honeycrunch Muesli tained slow release of energy, which the use of an external Coeliac Tasting 750g. Each bag offers consumers is better for the body, rather than the Panel. Before launching any new gluexcellent value for money, costing as quick sugar rush that can result from ten free product, the NPD team collect little as €0.21 a bowl! high sugar foods. High fibre foods also feedback from the nationwide panel During times of recession, are a great way to reduce the need when disposfor snacks in between meals”. With able income is obesity on the rise in Ireland among reduced, conboth children and adults, eating a sumers often high fibre, low GI breakfast before comprise on leaving the home has never been so taste or health important. The HSE report found that when seeking only 10% of adults reported not eating better value for breakfast, while overall only 14% of money. This Irish children reported never eating highlights the breakfast during school days, indicatimportance ing that the Irish population underof innovation stand the importance of breakfast. during these Kelkin, a leading health food times in order company, takes eating breakfast seriKelkin launched a new Oat Granola range in July of this year to maintain ously and recognises its importance. in three mouth-watering variants: Kelkin Triple Berry, Tropical consumers’ Underpinning its commitment to and Fruit & Nut. 56

September09Cereals

Flahavan’s delicious range of oatOatlets, Organic based products offer great value for Porridges, money and are simply good for you. Microwaveable Flahavan’s products are 100% Irish Quick Oats in a and are available nationwide. drum, sachets (original and organic) and portLifeforce able porridge pots Lifeforce Original Irish Muesli, from (original, strawBoyne Valley Group, is synonymous berry and organwith wholesome, healthy eating. This ic), Real Fruit satisfying breakfast cereal is high Porridge varieties in complex carbohydrates, fibre and Maintaining its position as an innovator within together with other nutrients, essential for the most the ‘Free From’ arena, Kelkin intends to launch a new Pinhead, Jumbo addition to its existing Gluten Free Cereal range of Muesli and Porridge this winter. Oats, Added Bran and Oatbran. Ready to make sure their ever expanding to Eat Cereals include portfolio meets consumer demands in Flahavan’s Hi8 Muesli and terms of taste, quality and packaging Crunchy Oats and their format. popular Flapjacks range in the biscuit and snack Flahavan’s category. Flahavan’s have been operating Flahavan’s is Ireland’s their oat mill in Kilmacthomas, Co. favourite porridge and Waterford for over 200 years, making has a loyal Irish customer it one of Ireland’s longest private base, with over one milIrish family-run food businesses. Lifeforce Original Irish Muesli tastes as nature lion servings of Flahavan’s intended, without artificial additives or table sugar. The Flahavan’s name and brands consumed nationwide each are resonant of Irish tradition and week. The distinctive Flahavan’s important meal of the day. taste, quality and innovative format Lifeforce Muesli is easy to prevarieties combine to make Flahavan’s pare and tastes simply delicious with Oats the number one brand that conboth cold and hot milk. It is made sumers can trust. from the finest Irish grown cereals and specially selected nuts and fruits. Lifeforce Original Irish Muesli tastes as nature intended, without artificial additives or table sugar. The naturally sweet flavour is attributed to the finely chopped dates and finest raisins. Lifeforce Original Irish Muesli is available in 1.5kg and 750g packs. The Flahavan’s name and brands are resonant of Irish tradition and integrity and use locally produced oats from a select panel of growers in their range of products.

Cereal Thrillers

integrity and use locally produced oats from a select panel of growers in their range of products. Claiming a market share of over 65% in the hot oats category, Flahavan’s are market leaders and have been to the forefront of the recent significant growth in the hot oats market through their focus on quality and innovation. Flahavan’s product range include Progress

The cereals category is worth over €200m per year.

97% of Irish households purchase cereals.

Irish consumers eat more cereal per capita than any other country in the world, munching their way through 8kg per head, annually. Despite the current economic climate, Irish consumers are extremely brand loyal when it comes to cereals. Together, Kellogg’s Special K, Kellogg’s Corn Flakes, Kellogg’s Coco Pops, Kellogg’s Rice Krispies and Kellogg’s Crunchy Nut account for over 40% of all cereal sales in Ireland (Source: ACNielsen MAT to July 12, 2009).

September09Hot

Beverages

Heat Seekers Irish consumers can’t be separated from their favourite drinks, with hot beverage sales worth a massive €248m per year.

properties, while increased demand for indulgent products and growing consumer interest in ethical products are expected to boost new product development in this sector. Within instant coffees, sales have benefited from the ‘coffee experience’ of drinking espresso coffee in coffee bars, boosting sales of sachets of espressos for home consumption, and the growth of premium brands.

the day. These mugs are the ideal solution for both in-the-home and in-the-office and there will be four different designs in total for consumers to collect. The promotion will be communicated via a mix of outdoor and in-store advertising.

Bewley’s

Bewley’s is a much loved, iconic Irish brand with world class coffee and tea expertise. It began in 1885 when Charles Bewley shipped 2,099 chests of tea directly from China. Bewley’s then expanded into coffee, first as merchants, then opening their immensely popular Grafton Street Café. Today, guided by the expertise of Master Roaster Paul O’Toole, and coffee drinking are part Bewley’s claims market leaderof everyday life in Ireland, with the ship in the ‘Roast & Ground’ cofdaily (or even more regular) cuppa fee category in Ireland. Bewley’s seen as one of life’s little luxuries. tea range includes the classic While volume sales of hot beverages Bewley’s Original Blend, the sigin Ireland have been static at best nature award-winning Bewley’s for a number of years, changing Gold Blend and two newer consumer tastes are expected to see growth in the sector, despite the Special promotional packs of Nescafé Original blends, Bewley’s Special Reserve 200g will contain two free Mood Mugs, sure to Fairtrade and Bewley’s Decaf. recession. boost sales in the sector. Bewley’s teas recently won According to Mintel, the all-Irethree gold medals at the presland hot beverage market was estitigious international Great Taste mated to be worth €248.3m in 2008, Nescafé Awards 2009. Bewley’s Gold Tea representing a 5% increase from the Nescafé, Ireland’s number one coffee Blend was awarded a Two Star Gold last time the market was examined in brand, has driven its sales and Award in the Blended tea-bags catJanuary 2006. The four trends drivmarket share through a strategy of egory, and Bewley’s Green Blend Tea ing market growth are ethics, health, rewarding consumers with its value and Bewley’s Special Reserve Tea indulgence and convenience, which added activity (e.g. free gift with each were awarded One Star Gold Mintel predict will unlock promising purchase). Awards. growth opportunities for hot beverOver the coming weeks, spe“Bewley’s has a strong tradition ages in Ireland. cial promotional packs of Nescafé in tea and has been a favourite of Although the market is domiOriginal 200g will contain two free Irish consumers for generations, so nated in value by standard instant Mood Mugs. With messages such as coffees and black teas in bags, it is ‘Are you a morning the speciality and ‘sophisticated’ grumpy?’, ‘Don’t be premium-priced segments within all a morning snoozer’, sectors of the hot beverages market ‘Make your morning that have shown growth. These have smiley’, and ‘Make managed to support the total market, your morning happy’, with mainstream instant coffees and each mug will carry a bagged leaf teas showing generally different design that static or declining sales. seeks to lighten the Key growth areas include rising mood first thing in the sales of fruit/herbal teas, as Irish morning and provide Bewley’s claims market leadership in the ‘Roast & consumers embrace their health a humorous start to Ground’ coffee category in Ireland.

Tea

September09Hot

Beverages

Synovete Research, Dec it’s great to see our expertise 2008). and experience being recogLyons Gold Blend is made nised,” noted Mark Saunders, from high quality, full bodied General Manager, Retail and teas to give every cup a warm At-Home Division, Bewley’s. golden colour and a refresh“The Great Taste Awards is ingly rich, smooth taste. A one of the major international new, richer colour pack has authorities on speciality food just been launched to commuand drink, and we’re delightnicate the rich taste of Lyons ed our tea has received such Gold Blend Tea. a major endorsement from Distributed by BR Marketing, Davidoff Instant Coffee is Lyons Tea employs expert them. available in Rich Aroma, Fine Aroma, and Espresso varieties. master blenders and tasters “We source our tea from to select the best blends and Kenya, China, India, Sri The result is a coffee with a Lanka and Indonesia, selecting only unique quality, delicate nuances the finest teas, based on leaf appearand complex flavour compositions. ance and infusion qualities such as Its unsurpassed taste and exquisite flavour, colour, strength and briskaroma make Davidoff Café an incomness. Then our Master Blender creparable coffee experience, entirely in ates the award-winning blend of tea in the spirit of Davidoff’s unique brand Dublin for Irish consumers.” philosophy: ultimate quality for the connoisseur with the highest standards. Distributed by BR Marketing, Davidoff Coffee Davidoff Instant Coffee is available Only by selecting outstanding in Rich Aroma, Fine Aroma, and quality coffees from the best growing Espresso varieties. regions around the world, and by individually sorting and roasting them to bring out the individual Lyons Tea characteristics, can a company meet Lyons Tea is Ireland’s number one the sophisticated requirements of tea brand with 42.4% market share the true coffee connoisseur. Davidoff (Source: ACNielsen, April 17, 2009). Café is an exquisite masterpiece of New research has also revealed that Lyons Gold Blend is made from high coffee composition to which Davidoff’s Lyons Gold Blend is the best tasting, quality, full bodied teas, and a new, coffee steward has devoted all of his most refreshing and revitalising gold richer colour pack has just been dedication and expertise. blend tea on the Irish market (Source: launched to communicate its rich taste.

Cafédirect Drinking Chocolate Wins Great Taste Award CAFÉDIRECT’S San Cristobal Drinking Chocolate has been awarded a prestigious Gold Star at the 2009 Great Taste Awards. The farmers who grow and hand-pick the cocoa beans for the single-sourced drinking chocolate believe their speedy processing methods are behind its great taste. Made with 40% of the finest quality cocoa from the small town of San Cristobal in the Dominican Republic, Cafédirect’s San Cristobal Drinking Chocolate is one of the purest available, with a rich, creamy, luxurious taste. The growers from the town have the processing of the cocoa beans down to a fine art, ensuring the white cocoa flesh from inside the beans is delivered to their processing area in less than six hours, when the cocoa is at its freshest. The direct relationship between Cafédirect and the cocoa growers enables the growers to control processing procedures themselves rather than leave it in the hands of middlemen like many mass producers do, compromising the freshness and quality of the cocoa. Cafédirect also picked up a further Gold Award for its Decaffeinated Medium Roast Fresh Ground Coffee. A blend of 100% Arabica coffee beans, grown on the lush highlands of Latin America, Cafédirect Decaffeinated Medium Roast Fresh Ground Coffee enjoys a silky smooth, vibrant flavour, perfect for day and night. And being decaffeinated, it’s ideal for everyone wanting great tasting coffee without the zip of caffeine. “The Cafédirect growers are truly delighted with these wins,” commented Anne MacCaig, CEO of Cafédirect. “It justifies what we all believe here - that home-grown and hand-picked simply tastes better. Cafédirect is a global allotment company of over a quarter of a million skilled smallholder growers who work very hard in often difficult terrains to produce the very best tea, coffee and cocoa for the Irish customer. In return, we plough over 50% of the profits back into ensuring their businesses can prosper for years to come. At Cafédirect, we think we taste better because of the way we do business and we’re really pleased that the Great Taste Awards think so too.” See www.cafédirect.ie for more information. 60

September09Hot

combinations of some of the finest teas from Kenya, Assam from India and Ceylon from Sri Lanka, to produce the highest quality tea. The Lyons Tea range also includes Lyons Original Blend, Lyons Gold Blend Reserve, Lyons Kenya Blend, Lyons Decaffeinated Tea, and the range of Lyons Green Teas. For further information on Lyons Tea, see www.lyonstea.ie.

Lipton Lipton infusions are a stunning new range of fruit and herbal teas which have just launched on the Irish market. Lipton infusions are naturally caffeine-free and contain real pieces of luscious fruit, refreshing herbs and aromatic spices. Each pyramid bag provides the perfect conditions for fresh juicy fruit flavours to combine with other delicious ingredients, ensuring every cup is brimming with tantalising taste. The launch of Lipton infusions will be supported by a full communications programme, including press & outdoor advertising, TV & Radio promotions, PR, digital and sampling activity. The Lipton Fruit & Herbal teas range is split into three segments ‘Fruity’, ‘Herbal’ and ‘Destination’ and available in seven variants including Red Fruit, Crushed Peppermint, Lemon & Ginger, Sunny Camomile, Morocco, Alps and Andalucía. To celebrate the exciting new range, Lipton will be running ‘Win What You Want with Lipton’ throughout the month of September. Every day, one lucky winner will be walking away with whatever they want: from

Hot Facts: -

The all-Ireland hot beverage market was worth €243.8m in 2008.

The four trends driving market growth are ethics, health, indulgence and convenience.

Speciality and premium products are showing strong growth.

Ethical products are expected to boost the sector in the coming years.

a massage to a credit card bill, consumers simply tell Lipton what they would like to win and Liptop will foot the bill! All competition details are available at www.Lipton.ie and daily winners will be posted on www.facebook.com/lipton.ireland. “We know everyone is feeling the pinch at the moment and we thought it would be nice to give everyone the chance to win a little luxury that they have had to give up in recent times,” said Lipton Fruit & Herbal Tea Brand Manager, Grainne Galvin. “All you have to do is visit Lipton.ie and tell us what you would like to win and we will choose one winner a day for the whole month of September who will walk away with their chosen prize.” Lipton recently sponsored Ladies Day at the Leopardstown races on Saturday, September 5, where they hosted a series of fashion shows on the day, as well as offering samples and gorgeous goody bags to thirsty

Beverages

Lipton have launched a stunning new range of fruit and herbal teas on the Irish market.

race-goers, while the best dressed lady competition, judged by Xpose’s Sean Munsanje and Lipton Fruit & Herbal Tea Brand Manager, Grainne Galvin, saw one lucky winner walking away with a €5,000 shopping spree.

New product innovation: A velvety layer gives an extra smooth coffee Massive marketing support including TV, Press, Outdoor and sampling! AVAILABLE NOW! Order enquiries: (01) 6052 677

September09Food-To-Go

Daybreak Launches New Food-To-Go Range Following extensive market research, Daybreak has launched a superb new food-to-go range, perfectly tailored to consumer demand and offering superb margins to retailers

Any

convenience shop-owner can tell you about the pressure on their margins at the moment. As an ever more sophisticated consumer demands greater choice and value for money, the sector is challenged to make an innovative but cost-effective offering to their customers. Daybreak have identified their food-to-go offering as a key part of their response to this challenge. “We carried out a lot of research as part of our re-branding exercise at Daybreak,” explains Retail Chill/ Freeze Trading Manager, Louise Purdon, “and learned from our shoppers that the food-to-go offering is very important to them. Of course, it’s also vitally important to our retailers, given that it’s a category that generates high margins. So we have focused a lot of effort and investment on developing food-to-go solutions that are attractive to a broad range of consumers, that we can sell to them at a great price and that our retailers can deliver in a cost-effective manner.”

High Margin Opportunities The new sandwich offering is typical of the approach that Daybreak adopt62

Louise Purdon, Retail Chill/Freeze Trading Manager, Daybreak.

ed. They first tested 20 different sandwich recipes on a range of customers right across the country. Based on the feedback from this exercise, they narrowed it down to the 10 recipes which can now be purchased fresh at the deli-counter in Daybreak stores. An example is ‘The Texan’, a delicious panini with roast beef, onion, mixed peppers, cheddar cheese and red onion relish. Purdon points out that the new exclusive sandwich range has a number of advantages. “The 10 options are clearly displayed on the new menu system installed as part of the re-design of our stores. The range covers all tastes and gives our customers a delicious fresh sandwich for a very competitive price. And of course, it allows our retailers new highmargin opportunities, with no extra investment in equipment.” The same principles apply to the other components in the new food-togo offering. The self-service smoothie and juice bar delivers a great value, healthy option to Daybreak shoppers without a significant investment in equipment or the need to have a member of staff manning it all day. The soup is also self-service, offering four

different flavours to customers. And of course, everybody is serious about their coffee these days, so the new range includes a bean-to-cup solution featuring a coffee bean that is exclusive to Daybreak. Strong presentation is key to maximising sales. As part of their fresh new look, Daybreak have introduced a new food-to-go station close to the store entrance that merchandises juices & smoothies, coffee, treats and soup together. Since moving the self-service, food-to-go area near the door, retailers have enjoyed a 30% increase in coffee sales. Furthermore, since placing their premium treats by the coffee machine, Daybreak have noticed a marked increase in impulse shopping as customers buy a treat with their coffee.

All-Day Food Offering Purdon stresses that a priority for Daybreak was ensuring that retailers can deliver an attractive food offering throughout the day. For breakfast, they can offer everything from the traditional breakfast roll to healthy breakfast pots. The lunchtime offering has been enhanced by the new sandwich range and regular meal deal

September09Food-To-Go

promotions that deliver real value to shoppers. Another key addition to the offering is the range of tasty dinners which can be heated up and eaten in-store or just picked up on the way home from work in the evening. There are 16 options in this range, which includes quiche with side salad, beef stroganoff, lasagne and smaller snacks such as filled potatoes. As Purdon points out, “This range gives customers as many reasons as possible to visit the store during the day.”

Extensive Training & Support Along with increased margins, the extensive training and support that backs up the new solutions is proving very popular with retailers. Daybreak’s development team sit down with retailers at the outset to identify which parts of the food-to-go range are appropriate for the shopper profile in their area. Once the correct range has been identified, there is extensive on-site training when the new solutions are introduced and stores are provided with a step-by-step pictorial food preparation guide. Every solution also comes with its own marketing and point-of-sale pack to properly launch them to local shoppers. There are also regional workshops, where Daybreak retailers come together for a hands-on introduction to all aspects of the food-to-go range. These events provide a very convenient forum for retailers, where they can share ideas and talk about what has worked for them in their own stores.

In today’s environment, offering excellent value for money on food-togo is clearly very important. Foodto-go is a key category in Daybreak’s ongoing promotional activity and offers like their recent “five sausage rolls for €1” deal make sure shoppers can get a very affordable lunch in-store at all times. These offers are strongly advertised in-store and supported by a strong schedule of local radio advertising.

Continuous Process Purdon stresses that development of the food-to-go offering at Daybreak is an on-going process. The same team who developed the current range are already looking ahead to 2010, so they can continue to provide new and appealing food offerings to Daybreak shoppers in a way that is cost effective for the retailers to introduce in their stores. Consumer tastes are always changing and the Daybreak team recognise that it is important to keep their food offering fresh and appealing.

“We have focused a lot of effort and investment on developing foodto-go solutions that are attractive to a broad range of consumers, that we can sell to them at a great price and that our retailers can deliver in a costeffective manner.” As Purdon points out, this strong food-to-go offering will remain at the heart of the development of the Daybreak brand. The new units give a fresh and modern look to the stores. The emphasis on value for money across the range attracts customers into Daybreak stores throughout the day for food and drinks offerings that appeal to their tastes. And most importantly, from the retailers’ point of view, the cost effective solutions in this high-margin part of the store are a great boost to the profitability of their business.

September09Sauces

Saucy Stories The sauces sector is an important one for retailers, as consumers embrace their convenience and value properties.

vours and textures, which allow them greater control over what they eat, whilst still offering a quick and easy option, which these cuisines and cooking methods provide.

Heinz

Also from Heinz are the HP range of Brown and Barbecue sauces, which make a popular addition to any household’s sauce repertoire. Also available in a handy Top Down pack, HP is the only Brown Sauce on the market to offer stay-clean technology while still offering the distinctive HP fruity flavour.

Heinz Tomato Ketchup is undoubtedly the world’s number one sauce brand. Its unmistakeable flavour has been enjoyed by consumers around the world for Jacob Fruitfield more than 120 years and is Food Group sold in over 150 countries. The Chef brand has been Heinz Tomato Ketchup is helping Irish consumers an Irish household favourite to enhance their meals and is the best selling tomato since the 1920s, with its are big business ketchup brand in Ireland with vast portfolio of sauces and in Ireland, and growing all the time a 63% Value Share (Source: condiments. Chef is a firm as more and more consumers seek to ACNielsen, July 2009). Irish favourite, being the recreate their favourite ethnic dishes, Top Down Tomato Ketchup, second biggest brand in from Italian to Indian, in their own with its vibrant labelling, the table sauces market homes. highlighting provenance of the and brand leader in many Of course, the sauces sector tomatoes used in its manufacsegments of this market. includes much more than merely ture and its natural quality, is The Chef range of ethnic ranges, such as condiments, available in a variety of sizes sauces is a must-have for dips, dressings, dry cooking sauces, and formats, including Top any time of the year, with pickles, seasonings and table sauces. Down, Glass and Squeezy. its range of high quality According to market analysts Heinz Top Down Tomato and much loved products. Datamonitor, the market for sauces, Ketchup offers They are the perfect dressings and condiments The HP brand remains accompaniment for all the taste in Ireland increased at a massively popular with of Ireland’s many foods and are Compound Annual Growth Irish consumers. favourite sure to enhance conRate of 4% between 2002 tomato ketchup but with sumers’ taste experience. The brand and 2007, with wet cooking the added benefit of its continues to meet the needs of the sauces taking the lion’s no mess, no waste, stayshare of the market at clean cap. The Heinz 29.8%. Tomato Ketchup range, These wet cook-in sauces in keeping with increasinclude Italian, Indian and ing consumer demand, oriental sauces. This sigalso includes Reduced nificant category growth is Sugar & Salt and driven by two key factors. Organic varieties. Firstly, consumers are Heinz Top Down travelling the world more Barbeque Sauces remain widely and are therefore a family favourite both for increasingly exposed to new summertime barbeques and cuisines and flavours that they indoor dining all year round. seek to re-create in their own The range offers a choice of homes. Secondly, consumers’ two varieties, Original desire for healthy, conHeinz Top Down Tomato Ketchup offers all the taste and Hot ‘n’ Sizzling, venient meal options of Ireland’s favourite tomato and are the ideal is on the increase. ketchup but with the added accompaniment to Shoppers are looking The Chef brand has been helping Irish consumers benefit of its no mess, no cooked meats. for new, interesting flato enhance their meals since the 1920s. waste, stay-clean cap.

Sauces

September09Sauces

market with a wide range of sizes and varieties to suit all households, with a convenient top down squeezy format being the latest addition on ketchup and sauce. The well known and much loved Chef Tomato Ketchup and Sauce are a must-have with their tangy and spicy taste. Chef Sauce is market leader within the category, with a 66% value share (Source: ACNielsen, Extended Scantrack, MAT week ending June 14, 2009). The brand is currently supported with a heavyweight TV campaign and in-store promotions. Chef is now also the healthy option, with its ketchup, sauce, and BBQ sauce being gluten and fat free, and suitable for anyone following a vegetarian diet. Chef have also just added to their portfolio with the launch of a new Chunky Relish. It is an appetizing and versatile chunky tomato relish which is the perfect accompaniment to burgers, sandwiches, salads and much, much more.

Mars Ireland Uncle Ben’s from Mars remains the clear brand leader in both the rice and ethnic sauce categories, claiming 62% and 23% market share respectively (Source: ACNielsen Value Share MAT, July 2009). Uncle Ben’s delivers a variety of great tasting, high quality meal Uncle Ben’s delivers a variety of great tasting, high alternatives, all ready quality meal alternatives, all ready within minutes. within minutes. In addition, consumers. Dolmio boasts a wide the Uncle Ben’s sauce and rice range range of nutritious, tasty and easy to comes with the reassurance that it prepare pasta sauces, giving consumdoes not contain any artificial colours, ers plenty of choice and much needed flavours or preservatives. convenience for their weekday meals. The total Uncle Ben’s range is The relaunch of Bolognese, Stir Ins extensive: their traditional ethnic and Lasagne sauces over the past 18 sauces encompass recipes from the months means Dolmio tastes even oriental, Indian and Mexican cuisines better than before, with no artificial and its newly introduced stir fry range colours, flavours and preservatives offers a variety of recipes to liven up across the majority of the range.

Baxters/Kelkin Ltd

Made using the famously smooth taste of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee whiskey, the range of Jack Roma has launched its new range Daniel’s sauces comes in four of bolognese recipes, which have distinctive flavours: Smooth gone through the taste test and Original, Full Flavour Smokey, are sure to be their best flavoured Rich Honey, Hot Chilli (for those pasta bolognese yet. who like to feel the heat). Not The sauces are made with just for the BBQ, fans of the the finest tomatoes, herbs and sauces are experimenting with vegetables in order to deliver the the range throughout the year, true taste of Italy direct to Irish Dolmio boasts a wide range of nutritious, tasty and and the new website (www. consumers. Great for spaghetti easy to prepare pasta sauces, giving consumers plenty jackdanielsbbqsauces.com) features bolognese or just simply added to of choice and much needed convenience. a selection of recipes for customers pasta, the sauces are sure to be a boring mealtimes. Uncle Ben’s rice to try out, including spicy chilli con hit among families who are looking for is available in a variety of different carne, exotic Moroccan lamb and a twist a quick and tasty meal solution. formats - it’s loose and boil-in-bag on the traditional Sunday roast gravy. The new look, new taste sauces formats guarantee perfect rice every Manufactured under license by are available in 500g and 700g famtime, as does the Express Rice range, Baxters Food Group (‘Baxters’) and ily size jars and the range consists which is available in 12 delicious varidistributed in Ireland by Kelkin Ltd, of Original, Light, Chunky, Garlic & eties and has the added benefit of no the four sauces are incredibly versaOnion, and Spicy! washing up. tile and can be used as an all round Dolmio is Ireland’s table sauce, a dipping sauce, brushed leading pasta sauce on to meats before grilling, roasting or brand, according to frying, used as a baste during cooking Mars Ireland. With or as an ingredient in marinades. almost two in every Each sauce is virtually fat free, three pasta sauces with less than 30 calories per typical purchased coming 25g serving, making it a tasty and from the extensive healthy option. The Rich Honey verDolmio portfolio, the sion is suitable for vegetarians and brand remains a firm the other three varieties are suitable Roma has launched its new range of bolognese recipes in favourite with Irish for vegans too. Jack Daniel’s BBQ Original, Light, Chunky, Garlic & Onion, and Spicy varieties.

Shamrock Foods

September09Sauces

Made using the famously smooth taste of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee whiskey, Jack Daniel’s sauces encompass a broader male audience who identify with the strong masculine appeal of the Jack Daniel’s brand.

sauces come in cases of eight and have an RSP of €4.25. “We are extremely proud with the success of this range of classic American style barbecue sauces in Ireland and believe the legendary Jack Daniel’s brand name adds significant consumer appeal to the BBQ and brown sauce segment,” noted Geraldine Marks, Licensed Brands Manager of Baxters. A comprehensive marketing programme is in place for 2009/2010, embracing advertising, sampling, PR, instore and on pack promotions, along with affinity partnerships over the summer months.

es in the form of premium sachets and premium jar stir-fry ranges. In the dipping sauce sector, Blue Dragon has extended its range of Sweet Chilli Dipping Sauces to include Hot and Kaffir Lime variants. The brand has also introduced four squeezy variants: Blue Dragon Squeezy Thai Sweet Chilli – Hot, Malaysian Satay, Chinese BBQ and Chinese Sweet & Sour have been added to the original Blue Dragon Squeezy Sweet Chilli Dipping Sauce. This new range combines an easy-touse shatterproof (plastic) format with popular take-away flavours.

Blue Dragon’s distinctive branding and characteristic variant colour with additional GDA information, nutritional breakdowns, cooking tips and key facts, to ensure stand-out on shelf and help shoppers make informed purchase choices. Also from BR Foods, Caribbean food entrepreneur Levi Roots has launched a range of cooking sauces to the Irish market. The range includes three variants: Levi Roots’ Reggae Reggae, Caribbean Curry and Jamaican Brown Stew cooking sauces. Reggae Reggae Cooking Sauce is the original Reggae Reggae taste, with scotch bonnet chillies and allspice, more tomatoes and onions, giving this sauce a thick, delicious texture. Caribbean Curry Sauce is a delicate Caribbean style curry with onions, garlic and herbs. Jamaican Brown Stew is a favourite in its home country, and is rich and spicy with tomatoes and spring onions the term, ‘Brown’ refers to frying or browning of meat.

The Blue Dragon brand is one of the biggest in the Oriental sauce market, thanks to its commitment to producing authentic Oriental products.

BR Foods The Blue Dragon brand, distributed by BR Foods, is one of the biggest in the Oriental sauce market, thanks to its commitment to producing authentic Oriental products. For example, the ingredients for Blue Dragon’s Premium Curry Pastes are sourced in Thailand and the ingredients for Blue Dragon’s Premium Stir-fry Sauce range are sourced in Malaysia. The brand claims leadership of the Oriental Stir-Fry Sauce segment, thanks primarily to successful promotional activity on the well-established 120g sachets, as well as attracting new buyers with innovative new rang66

To engage new and existing consumers, Blue Dragon has also added more vibrancy to its Oriental stirfry portfolio. The re-vamp includes improved packaging design to increase taste appeal to engage new and existing consumers, as well as the addition of two new variants to the standard stir-fry sachet range, Blue Dragon Sweet Soy with Garlic & Ginger and Blue Dragon Thai Basil & Lemongrass, and two further additions to its premium stir-fry sachet range, Blue Dragon Sweet & Sour with Coriander and Blue Dragon Sweet Chilli & Kaffir Lime. The updated packaging combines

Levi Roots has launched a range of cooking sauces to the Irish market, including Levi Roots’ Reggae Reggae, Caribbean Curry and Jamaican Brown Stew cooking sauces.

Premier Foods Ireland Sharwood’s, the experts in the premium ethnic foods market, continues to lead the way with an exciting and innovative selection of sauces and accompaniments, distributed by Premier Foods Ireland. The brand claims a 14% share of the oriental wet sauces market and a 9% share of the Indian wet sauces market (Source: ACNielsen, April 2009).

September09What’s

New

Kingsmill Little Big Loaf

Don Carlos ‘Oil Rig’ Takes To the Road

FAMILY bread brand Kingsmill has extended its familyfocused portfolio and launched the perfect solution for smaller households – Kingsmill Little Big Loaf: the only loaf on the market with full-size slices, just fewer of them! Kingsmill have taken consumer favourites, Kingsmill Great Everyday White, Kingsmill Tasty Wholemeal and Kingsmill Love To Toast, and created 525g versions, which offer full-size slices, the perfect offering for smaller households. The Kingsmill Little Big Loaf range is now available in Great Everyday White, Tasty Wholemeal and Love To Toast varieties and should be vertically merchandised alongside smaller sized loaves, the part of the fixture commonly shopped by smaller households, to increase stand-out on-shelf.

DON Carlos, Ireland’s number one olive oil, has unveiled its exciting new branded trucks, with the first driving on Irish roads in July 2009. The Don Carlos branded trucks have been created to drive further brand awareness, following on from the successful TV campaign that was on air for 11 weeks straight from May this year. The imagery is taken directly from the TV Commercial, with Don Carlos riding his horse through the Spanish olive grove, proving that the Don Carlos brand is truly a well oiled machine.

Panadol Advance PANADOL Advance is the latest addition to GlaxoSmithKline’s Panadol portfolio. Panadol Advance is a new advanced formulation of paracetamol that disperses in the stomach up to five times faster than standard paracetamol tablets. Panadol remains Ireland’s number one selling analgesic brand in grocery. Panadol Advance 500mg tablets are available in handy Compack packs of 12 tablets from grocery outlets nationwide.

Cost Savings from Sqeez SQEEZ, the leading brand of ambient fruit juice in the Irish grocery market, has tapped into consumer desire for cash saving options and value driven shopping behaviour, and as such, the brand will drop its price by up to one third or more on 1 litre packs of orange and apple juice, in a move which it is hoped will invigorate the category and strengthen the brand profile amongst shoppers. The 1 litre packs of Sqeez orange and apple juices will carry the special “money saver” mark. These money saver packs will be available in stores nationwide on an ongoing basis. The launch campaign to support the move, will involve heavyweight promotional and PR activity running alongside a significant above-the-line communications campaign.

An Exciting New Tuc Experience TUC are expanding further into the snacking sector with the launch of their exciting new range of Tuc Craks, bite sized savoury snacks, with a crunchy kick and exciting flavours to match. They have a unique texture and shape from Tuc Original, and are available in irresistible Sour Cream & Onion and Original flavours. These new packs are sure to jump off your shelves with their vibrant packaging, which clearly differentiates the range. Packaged in a convenient 85g bag, they are ideal for on-the-go snacking and perfect for sharing. The brand is being heavily supported with a high intensity ATL campaign on both TV and Cinema. This will also be supported through an online campaign at www.snacklove.ie.

Go Ahead and Feel Good NOW worth €1.7m (Source: ACNielsen, MAT, 52 w/e June 14, 2009), Ireland’s number one healthier biscuit brand, go ahead! celebrates another landmark achievement. As part of its continuous health and nutrition programme, United Biscuits have reduced the saturated fat content in some of go ahead!’s most popular products. Available now, the delicious Crispy Fruit Slices (Apple & Sultana, Orange & Sultana, Forest Fruits, Chocolate Chip) now have 50% less saturated fat, while the popular Yogurt Breaks (Forest Fruits, Tropical, Blueberry and Strawberry) have seen saturated fats reduced by 18%. 67

September09Shelf

Life

Shelf Life CADBURY Dairy Milk has unveiled three stunning works of art representing the quality, craft, magic, and famously, the glass and a half of real Irish milk that goes into making every half-pound of Cadbury Dairy Milk manufactured in Ireland. Cadbury Dairy Milk have selected only the best artists in the world to take part in this celebration, with each of the three artists using unique and stunning techniques to interpret the glass and a half icon. The first work of art (pictured) was from Russia’s Yulia Brodskaya, while the other two art-works are created by Rachel Thomas and Alex Trochut. GLANBIA have swept the board at the world’s largest and most prestigious cheese award ceremony - the Nantwich International Cheese Show, held in Dorfield Park in England. Kilmeaden won the Fayrefield Trophy for the Best World (International) Cheddar, the Kerrygold Trophy for the Best Irish Cheddar, and a Gold Medal for Best Irish Cheddar. D4 STORES is the name of a new Irishowned grocery store, which opened on the site of the former Jury’s Hotel in Ballsbridge, Dublin 4. Owned by property developer, Sean Dunne and his wife Gayle, D4 Stores is described as a “convenience store that provides a good proportion of groceries and alcohol at value-for-money prices”. There are plans to open another D4 Stores outlet in Donnybrook in the coming months.

CONGRATULATIONS to The Sunday Times, which increased its circulation by over 10% to 116,541 copies, making it the biggest increase in circulation among all Irish newspapers in the Irish marketplace. This means that The Sunday Times is now the fastest growing quality newspaper in Ireland in both the daily and Sunday market. Meanwhile, The Irish Sun continues to be the best selling daily tabloid newspaper in Ireland, selling 96,725 copies every day, while the Irish News of the World has achieved a circulation figure of 134,461 copies.

PANINI have announced the launch of Disney Make It! magazine, which hit the shelves on September 3. Disney Make It! is a four-weekly arts and craft magazine for boys and girls aged 5-10, offering 36 fun-filled pages of imaginative and accessible art and craft activities, all presented by everyone’s favourite Disney characters. Readers are given simple step-by-step photo guides to achieving a whole world of makes, painting and drawing techniques, and cool cut-out mini makes. Plus there will be competitions to enter and a Disney branded art kit cover gift with every issue!

THE great Sean Kelly teamed up with Tipperary Natural Mineral Water once again this year, as the Sean Kelly Tour of Waterford took place, for the third year running, on August 30. Tipperary Water quenched the thirst of over 2,500 leisure cyclists who signed up for this great event. This year the Tour’s nominated charity is the Irish Cancer Society, following on from 2007 and 2008 when over 50,000 was raised for the National Council for the Blind. Sean Kelly is pictured with Niamh Farrell, Tipperary Water Brand Manager. 68

GALA have launched some tasty new initiatives for their 200 stores across Ireland. Developed in conjunction with Gala’s Fresh Food Managers, Robbie Fisher and John Ireland (pictured), the Gala Cook Book is an online resource for all retailers in the Gala group, containing over 70 recipes. To support Gala retailers’ focus on quality food, the Fresh Food Managers used their combined experience to develop innovative and wholesome recipes that can be applied in Gala stores across the country. The Cook Book includes hot and cold dishes, soups, desserts and home baking. It will help retailers to increase their product ranges, control portion sizes on the food counters – thus reducing wastage – and give advice on portion costings. This is the latest addition to Gala’s Grow site – the online support for retailers – and is aimed at increasing business whilst encouraging retailers to submit ideas and network online. CONNEMARA Peated Single Malt Irish whiskey has become the official spirit to Connacht Rugby, forged out of a shared role as the underdog and a common passion for rugby.

Since launching in 1998 and now with over 300 stores open, the Gala Group is maintaining its number 1 position as Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fastest growing retail symbol group. Operating under three brands, Gala, Gala Superstore and GalaXpress, the Gala retail team have a unique knowledge of the needs and ambitions of retailers and place a strong emphasis on retailer profitability. So, if you want to connect with Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most dynamic retail group, make sure you call Gala first, on Callsave

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