LARGEST INDEPENDENTLY AUDITED GROCERY TRADE CIRCULATION IN IRELAND
September 2026
Independent retailers first RGDATA’s new director general Roseanne Regan discusses her vision for the body representing the retail grocery sector
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Deep impact Accessing the potential effect of Government’s National Development Plan
The second first impression How culture and team spirit can keep new hires for longer
CONVENIENCE RETAILING • OFF-TRADE • SUPERMARKETS • NEWSAGENCY • FORECOURT
EDITOR’S LETTER
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ShelfLife September 2026 Vol.33 No.9 Editor DONNA AHERN donnaahern@mediateam.ie Staff journalist RYAN BRENNAN ryanbrennan@mediateam.ie Contributors JOHN HEALY CAROLINE REID NIKKI MURRAN OWEN CLIFFORD Cover photographer NATHALIE MARQUEZ COURTNEY Head of business IAN MULVANEY (087) 2208486 ian.mulvaney@mediateam.ie Account manager MARK MORGAN (086) 8854930 mark.morgan@mediateam.ie Circulation subs@mediateam.ie Publisher JOHN McDONALD (01) 294 7744 john.mcdonald@mediateam.ie
The Trump card It would be remiss of me not to mention the biggest news to hit the Irish food, drink and retail industry in the past few weeks. It was widely reported that, during US President Donald Trump’s visit to Ireland on 12–13 September 2026, he announced that the tariff on Irish whiskey exports to the US is to be removed. The Irish Whiskey Association (IWA) was quick to respond, with the organisation representing the industry issuing a statement in which it “heartily” welcomed the announcement. It is important to note that, last year, Irish whiskey exports to the US were worth €450 million, while Irish distillers purchased €80 million worth of US whiskey casks. Commenting on the announcement, Eoin Ó Cáitín, director of the IWA, said: “Nothing exemplifies the US-Ireland trade relationship better than Irish whiskey. This relationship represents thousands of jobs and millions in investment on both sides of the Atlantic, and the return to tariff-free trade for our Irish whiskey distillers will strengthen this success and lead to further growth and investment,” Ó Cáitín noted. “We will continue to work with our EU and US counterparts to secure a return to the zero-forzero arrangement for all drinks exports.” Aidan Meagher, co-head of Geopolitical Strategy at EY Ireland, echoed Ó Cáitín’s sentiment. He said: “This is really welcome news for Irish Whiskey, and it couldn’t come at a better time for an industry that has worked so hard to grow its footprint in the US, still by far its most important export market […] “The 10% tariff on Irish whiskey has created a competitive disadvantage relative to Scotch whisky and Northern Irish whiskey, following earlier tariff measures. Its removal would therefore likely improve the competitive position of Irish producers in their most important export destination and could support increased sales volumes, investment and rural employment across the island.” For now, there is good reason for the industry to raise a glass. To Irish whiskey, American trade — and hopefully, a more predictable road ahead.
Donna Ahern
Printing W & G Baird Ltd ShelfLife is a controlled circulation magazine, available to selected individuals with interests in the retail and wholesale grocery trade, who fall within the publisher’s terms of control. For those outside these terms, annual subscription is €98.00 including postage & packing.
Contents September 14
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Managing director JOHN McDONALD Sales director PAUL BYRNE Operations director BILLY HUGGARD Published monthly by Mediateam Ltd., 55 Spruce Avenue, Sandyford, Dublin 18, A94 RP22 Telephone (01) 294 7776 Fax (01) 294 7799 ISSN: 1393 0753
COVER STORY 22 Interview: Just a week into her new role as director general of RGDATA Roseanne Regan caught up with Donna
Ahern to discuss what she hopes to achieve during her leadership and her vision for the future of the organisation.
NEWS&ANALYSIS Hot off the Press Seen and Heard 12 CSNA News 31 Appointments 32 Social Diary 56 NOffLA News 4
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FEATURES&REPORTS 14 I’m with the Brand: Donna
Circulation audited by Audit Bureau of Circulations.
MIX Paper from responsible sources ShelfLife is a member of Magazines Ireland
FSC® C016201
Ahern caught up with Irish Rugby Captain, Caelan Doris to discuss his continued role as Lucozade Sport brand ambassador and the standout moments in his sports career to date.
16 Opinion: As more young adults
continue to live at home, John Healy discusses how brands and retailers can capitalise on this to meet these changed family dynamics. 26 Feature: Owen Clifford head of Retail Sector, Bank of Ireland, looks at the potential impact of Government's National Development plan on the Irish retail sector. 28 Store Profile: Paul and Monica McLoughlin’s store in Ballaghaderreen recently went through major renovations, which transformed the store into a more modern, welcoming and comfortable environment for both their customers and staff. ShelfLife reports.
ADVISOR 18 Recruitment: A poor first day can
do plenty of damage. Nikki Murran discusses the importance of making a good impression to convince your new employee to stay. 20 HR: Irish law does not prevent employees from working for more than one employer, writes Caroline Reidy.
MARKETING& CATEGORY FOCUS 34 Air Fryer 41 Hot Beverages 50 Confectionery
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NEWS
HOT PRESS OFF the
The top news stories in FMCG and retail from across Ireland
AI reshapes workforce planning as Irish employers face changing skills needs
I
bec’s annual Talent, Trends and Pay Survey – Pay and Resourcing Forecast 2026, based on responses from 336 senior HR professionals, highlights the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital skills on workforce planning in Ireland. While demand remains resilient, growth is expected to soften. Some 35% of businesses anticipate increasing headcount in 2027, compared with 37% in 2026 and 41% in 2025. Among businesses planning to expand, 28% identified new skills, including digital and AI capabilities, as a driver of recruitment. Increased production and demand for services was the leading factor at 81%. AI is also contributing to workforce reductions. Among 27 organisations planning cuts, 52% cited work reorganisation driven by digital efficiencies and AI. Permanent recruitment remains dominant, with 92% of additional hires expected to be permanent. Meanwhile, 83% expect to raise basic pay in 2027, with an average increase of 3.1%. Maeve McElwee, executive director of employer relations, Ibec, said: “While we are seeing a continued softening in headcount growth expectations, overall workforce resilience remains very strong.” Ibec is also calling for greater investment in AI training to support Ireland’s workforce transition.
Lidl Ireland reopens Dun Boots opens new Drogheda Laoghaire store, creates 24 jobs store, creates 40 new jobs
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idl Ireland has reopened its redeveloped Pottery Road store in Dún Laoghaire following an €8 million investment, creating 24 new jobs. The extensive refurbishment and extension have ‘transformed the site into a modern 1,600 sqm retail space designed to enhance the local shopping experience.’ The store features self-checkouts, a customer restroom and Lidl’s in-store bakery, alongside energy-efficient technologies, rooftop solar panels and EV charging points. The redevelopment has achieved an A-energy rating, reflecting Lidl’s focus on sustainability. Dublin ladies Gaelic football captain Carla Rowe officially opened the store, with openingday celebrations and special offers for customers. As part of the reopening, the store team also donated €1,000 in Lidl vouchers to the NRH Foundation, supporting the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dún Laoghaire. Niall Murray, regional managing director at Lidl Ireland, said the investment would deliver a premium shopping experience for local customers while strengthening the retailer’s commitment to the community.
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oots has opened a new store at Scotch Hall Shopping Centre in Drogheda, creating more than 40 jobs and expanding its presence in the town. The new ground-floor location is Boots’ second Drogheda store, offering a wide range of pharmacy, healthcare, beauty and wellness products and services. The store features an extensive beauty offering, including brands such as Laneige, The Ordinary, Sol de Janeiro, Benefit, Kylie Cosmetics, Rituals, NEOM, Estée Lauder and Clinique, alongside a selection of leading K-beauty brands. Customers can also shop Boots-exclusive favourites including No7 and Liz Earle, as well as Boots own-brand products and everyday healthcare essentials. The new pharmacy provides prescriptions, health advice, vaccinations and other healthcare services. Customers can also use the Boots app to manage prescriptions and book appointments. Stephen Watkins, managing director of Boots Ireland, said the store demonstrates the company’s commitment to supporting communities and growing its presence across Ireland.
Revenue seize tobacco products worth €2,800 in various operations
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ver the week commencing 31 August 2026, Revenue officers seized Tobacco products, with an estimated value of over €2,800, representing a potential loss to the Exchequer of almost €2,100. Collectively, the officers seized contraband with an estimated value of almost €238,000 in various operations in Dublin, the Midlands, and Rosslare Europort, in various operations. Officers also seized 51 counterfeit items with an estimated value of almost €157,000, various illicit drugs worth more than €46,000 and over 1.3kg of herbal cannabis valued at almost €33,000. The detections resulted from risk profiling and intelligence-led operations. The parcels originated in the UK, US, India, Canada and France and were destined for addresses across Ireland. The counterfeit goods were confirmed by rights holders to have infringed intellectual property rights. Six weapons accessories were also seized. Revenue confirmed that investigations into all seizures remain ongoing as part of its continued efforts to combat smuggling and shadow economy activity. ■
For more details on all the above and the latest grocery-related news as it happens, visit www.shelflife.ie. ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
A little sprinkle for every day happiness To protect her delicate skin make Caldesene part of your everyday routine.
TENDER CARE AT
Every Change
For topical use only. Cleanse and dry the affected area before applying. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. The active ingredient in Caldesene Medicated Powder is Calcium Undecylenate 10% w/w, 20g, 55g, 100g pack size. Clonmel Healthcare Ltd. Date Prepared: December 2023. 2023/ADV/CAL/237C
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SEEN AND HEARD
Corrib Oil opens flagship Ballina service station and convenience store
CPM Ireland celebrates forty years of innovation, growth and partnership
Corrib Oil has officially opened its flagship Ballina service station and convenience store, marking one of the most ‘significant investments’ in the companys near 40-year history and reaffirming its commitment to Mayo, the county where the business was founded in 1987. Corrib Oil Ballina official opening The development represents the future of the company’s retail offering, combining convenience, quality food, sustainable infrastructure and modern fuel solutions in a single destination designed around evolving customer needs. Representing Corrib Oil’s 43rd retail location, the Ballina development has created 50 new jobs across retail, food service and management roles. while introducing a comprehensive customer offering that brings together convenience retail, fresh food, and a comprehensive range of energy and mobility solutions. The forecourt, operating under the Circle K brand, has been designed to meet the needs of both private motorists and commercial operators. Alongside petrol and diesel, customers have access to AdBlue and electric vehicle charging.
CPM is celebrating 40 years in business in Ireland, marking four decades of growth, innovation and partnership with many of Ireland’s and the world’s best-known brands. Established in 1986 following a request from Mars UK for a CPM has expanded its services significantly, supporting clients across dedicated field sales FMCG, telecommunications, utilities, operation in Ireland, healthcare, technology, hospitality, the business has events and many other sectors grown from its retail merchandising roots into one of Ireland’s leading sales outsourcing and customer experience agencies. Originally known as Counter Products Marketing, CPM built its reputation on helping brands succeed at retail level through expert field sales and merchandising. While those foundations remain an important part of its identity, today’s business has evolved far beyond the shop floor. Operating across the island of Ireland with offices in Dublin and Belfast, CPM now combines strategic planning, sales expertise, customer experience, technology, data and nationwide dynamic resource deployment. Over the past four decades, CPM’s development has ‘mirrored the changing needs of retailers, brands and consumers.’
Children in Ireland value meaningful conversations more than material things Children in Ireland value meaningful conversations and spending quality time with the people they love more than material things, recently released research has revealed. The study was commissioned as Heinz and Barnardos join forces for the fifth year of their ‘Heinz Meanz Mealz’ limited-edition packs of Heinz Beanz, which support Barnardos Breakfast Clubs and intensive Family Support programmes across Ireland. The research, which surveyed 1,000 adults and 500 children aged five to 15 across Ireland, also points to a desire for more connection. Just 6% of children said they already spend enough meaningful time with the people who matter most to them. Food and mealtimes emerged as an important way for families to slow down, connect and talk. Half of adults said sharing a meal brings their family together (50%), while more than eight in 10 children said sharing food brings their family together (81%). Almost three-quarters of children said they find it easier to open up and talk while eating together (72%), while more than three-quarters said familiar and comforting foods help people relax and connect (78%). Commenting on the findings, Vogue Williams, longstanding ambassador for the Heinz and Barnardos partnership, said: “Mealtimes give us a reason to pause, sit down together and hear about each other’s day. With three little ones and another on the way, I love simple meals like Heinz Beanz on toast that mean less time cooking and more time connecting.”
Vogue Williams, longstanding ambassador for the Heinz and Barnardos partnership with ‘Heinz Meanz Mealz’ limitededition packs
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
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SEEN AND HEARD
Ionity announces partnership with Pinergy Ionity, Europe’s leading high-power electric vehicle (EV) charging network, has partnered with Pinergy, the energy transition company, as its energy service provider (ESP) in Ireland. The Corporate Power Purchase Agreement (CPPA) will see Pinergy supply renewable electricity to Ionity’s Irish charging infrastructure, covering 48 ‘ultra-fast’ charging points across seven locations on the national road network. The agreement forms part of Pinergy’s Guarantee of Origin offering, which enables organisations to purchase electricity generated from wind or solar farms in Ireland that is feeding directly into the national grid. Ionity noted that its Irish operations will be supplied with approximately six million kWh of renewable electricity annually, sourced from a wind farm in Co. Laois owned and operated by Lirion Power. Ionity is a high-powered charging (HPC) specialist, operating over 800 sites across 24 European countries, all of which use 100% renewable energy, the company added. Daire Keating, chief commercial officer, Pinergy, said: “Ionity plays a significant role in the country’s EV infrastructure, providing drivers with premium and convenient high-power charging capability needed for long-distance travel on Irish roads and connects Ireland into the wider European EV charging ecosystem.”
(L-R) Andreas Atkins, country manager UK & Ireland, Ionity, Daire Keating, chief commercial officer, Pinergy and David McInerney, head of Power Markets
€60k raised at IGBF Sports Legends Lunch 2026
(L-R) Mark Hargadon IGBF, Ian Woosnam, Bernard Dunne, Carla Ward, head coach of Ireland’s Women’s National Team, Des Cahill and Niall Quinn
Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund (IGBF) recently hosted its annual Sports Legends Lunch, at the Round Room at the Mansion House, Dublin. Over 300 delegates attended the event raising over €60,000 for the IGBF charity. The afternoon began with a vibrant drinks reception and entertainment courtesy of 7 Entertainment, setting the tone for a day filled with laughter, generosity and sporting spirit. Guests enjoyed a gourmet lunch and had the opportunity to win exceptional raffle prizes, including a trip to Scotland to see Ireland versus Scotland, complete with flights and accommodation. The event was expertly hosted by broadcasting legend Des Cahill, whose wit and warmth kept the energy high throughout. Special guest speakers included Ian Woosnam, Niall Quinn, Bernard Dunne and Carla Ward, alongside surprise guest Conor Moore, who entertained guests with his much-loved comedy sketches. The generosity of attendees and sponsors will help the IGBF continue its important work supporting members of the grocery industry who are facing hardship, the group noted. Frances Higgins, chair of the IGBF, commented: “We are deeply grateful for the continued support from our industry colleagues and sponsors. Events like this not only raise vital funds but also bring our community together in a spirit of solidarity and celebration.” For more information on the IGBF or to make a donation, visit www.IGBF.ie.
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
Allmed offers road to sea logistics Many businesses are facing concerns about inflation, rising costs, and the possibility of economic slowdown. In uncertain economic conditions, every decision matters; including how goods are transported and who you choose to transport your cargo with. For most businesses, shipping represents a significant portion of the overall expenditure. Delays, poor communication and unexpected charges can quickly erode the profit margins at a time when businesses can least afford it. When choosing a freight forwarder, it is vital to ensure that the supply chain remains efficient, reliable and cost-effective despite the changing market conditions, the company noted. Allmed is an Irish freight forwarding business based in Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny. The company was founded in September 2002, initially offering full load services between Italy and Ireland. Its coverage has since expanded and now includes regular departures from Italy, France, Spain, Holland, Belgium and Germany to Ireland for chilled, frozen, and ambient groupage, part and full loads, along with a reliable export service. Allmed’s aim is to provide a quality, reliable, efficient and personalised services to all its customers. According to the company, the staff at Allmed work to understand each customer’s needs and build a template which best caters for your company’s requirements. Businesses that work with experienced freight forwarders like Allmed are ‘better positioned to maintain service levels, control cost and adapt to changing market conditions’. For further information contact Allmed at sales@allmed.ie or (056) 779 3888.
NEW
Ready to
Mingle
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SEEN AND HEARD
Denny strengthens portfolio with new Made Without Nitrites range Ireland’s ‘most chosen meat brand’, Denny has added four new products to its portfolio with the launch of a new Made Without Nitrites range, offering shoppers more choice across familiar favourites. The range includes Carved Ham Slices, Wafer Thin Carved Ham Slices, Smoked Bacon Rashers and Unsmoked Bacon Rashers. With a growing consumer interest in healthier lifestyle choices, the new range contains no artificial preservatives, giving shoppers more variety while retaining the quality, convenience and flavour appeal associated with Denny. Identifiable through its Made Without Nitrites packaging label, the products will be rolling out with retailers across the island of Ireland throughout the coming months. The Smoked and Unsmoked Bacon Rashers products from the range are now available in the
Republic of Ireland in Musgrave, Dunnes Stores and Tesco Ireland The new Carved Ham Slices and Wafer Thin Carved Ham Slices will be available in Tesco Ireland stores from Monday 12 October 2026. Chris Doe, UK&I Marketing & Innovation director, said: “As Ireland’s most chosen meat brand, we’re continuing to invest behind Denny with innovation rooted in consumer insight. This launch strengthens our offer, creates new opportunities for our retail partners and builds Denny’s position for future growth.” The launch is supported with retailer activity including in-store POS, shopper communications and digital support, which will help to increase awareness of the new Denny Made Without Nitrites range and support retailers in engaging shoppers seeking more choice across the cooked meats and rashers categories.
Katie Taylor toasts historic win as Fizzique lands in Centra stores Katie Taylor on her recent visit to Centra Delgany, Co. Wicklow
Just days after bringing the curtain down on one of the greatest careers in Irish sporting history with a historic victory at a sold-out Croke Park, Katie Taylor visited Centra Delgany, Co. Wicklow, as Centra announced that Fizzique, the next-generation soda brand she co-created and co-owns, is now available in Centra stores. The three-time undisputed world champion and Olympic gold medallist received a champion’s welcome at Centra Delgany following her historic final bout. The visit marked another milestone for Fizzique, which launched in May and has already sold out twice following strong demand across retail and foodservice. Fizzique is a ‘better-for-you’ soda crafted with natural ingredients and bold taste, providing craveable refreshment with wellness built in. The drink is low in sugar & calories, high in fibre, made with natural juices and flavourings and infused with magnesium and vitamin D. Taylor, co-creator and shareholder of Fizzique, said: “Just like we changed minds about women and boxing, with Fizzique we’re going to change minds about soda and health. It’s a game changer, it’s ambitious, and I love that.” Centra is also rolling out a range of SiSú products, including cold-pressed shots and organic kombucha, across stores nationwide, with further functional products currently being explored for the Centra range.
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
New Denny Made Without Nitrites Range - Smoked and Unsmoked Bacon Rashers, Carved Ham Slices and Carved Wafer Thin Ham Slices
Fierce Mild launches Lively Lager Fierce Mild has recently launched Lively Lager which is the brands first nonalcoholic lager. According to the brand – it was developed from the outset as a beer in its own right, rather than as an alcohol-free version of an existing beer. Lively Lager is now available through Classic Drinks and Tesco stores nationwide. Fierce Mild will promote its non-alcoholic lager with on billboards at highprofile locations across Dublin, including Burgh Quay, on the giant sign on O’Connell Bridge House. The activation brings a homegrown independent alternative directly alongside one of the biggest names in beer, with campaign messages including ‘Go Dutch for Dinner. Not for Your Beer.’ and ‘Zer0.0 Choice. Until Now.’ The campaign challenges a familiar behaviour at the bar: drinkers asking simply for “a non-alc” and taking whatever happens to be available, rather than actively choosing the beer they want. “We’re asking people to ask what else is available – and to ‘Ask for the Irish One,’ said Fergal Carroll, co-founder of Fierce Mild. “We’re focused on making a beer people genuinely want to drink – and giving them an Irish alternative when they ask for one,” added Cathal Byrne, co-founder of Fierce Mild. Lively Lager is Fierce Mild’s first non-alcoholic lager and was developed from the outset as a beer in its own right, rather than as an alcohol-free version of an existing beer, the brand noted. The new Irish-brewed alcohol-free pilsner-style beer is designed to give lager drinkers another option – a beer brewed in Ireland to deliver the flavour and experience of a proper lager, without the alcohol. Brewed from start-to-finish in Ireland using just four natural ingredients – water, malt, hops and yeast – Lively Lager undergoes traditional lager fermentation, gentle alcohol removal and extended cold conditioning to deliver a crisp, refreshing, full-flavoured lager experience without the need for additives, preservatives or flavourings. As Ireland’s alcohol-free category grows, Fierce Mild is ‘looking to prove there’s room for an independent Irish non-alcoholic brewery to compete for drinkers’ attention alongside the biggest names in the category’. ■ Lively Lager is now available through Classic Drinks and Tesco stores nationwide
STOCK UP NOW!
FOR ADULT NICOTINE CONSUMERS ONLY.
This product is not risk-free and contains nicotine, which is addictive. You should not use this product if you do not already use nicotine.
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CSNA NEWS
CSNA NEWS CSNA NEWS
EHS secure convictions against several retailers for sale of vaping products to minor volunteers EHS secure convictions against several Co. Cork retailers for sale of vaping products to minor volunteers in large-scale Test Purchase operation. Recently, in Fermoy District Court, there were several prosecutions initiated by the Environmental Health Service against retail outlets that failed to refuse service to an underage volunteer who was working under the direction of the Environmental Health Officers who accompanied them.
The District Court judge noted that as far as he was concerned, there was no mitigation for “putting poison” into young people’s bodies and that, in his view, greater deterrence and penalties will be meted out in any future proceedings for similar offences. The retailers were each fined an average of €1,000, with costs to the prosecution levied at €1,200. Each of the retailers had pleaded guilty and will also have incurred
SARA ORME
National President, CSNA
CSNA NEWS
CSNA NEWS
The legal basis for employers needing to know their employees date of birth While an employee’s date of birth is not a legal requirement and is generally not included in a standard contract of employment in Ireland, it is important that the date of birth is included in the HR personnel files (for payroll, pensions and age-related statutory checks - National Minimum Wage Acts and Protection of Young Workers Act). In recent times, there were changes initiated by the Department of Social Protection that allowed employees defer the date they received their State Pension. In such instances, the employee will still be paying their PRSI at Class A, while other workers may be receiving their State Pension while still working, in which case they will move to Class J and will cease to pay a Contribution, while the employer
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
the legal costs of their solicitors, unless they have a Legal Expenses Cover such as provided through CSNAs partner ARAG. These retailers were all “caught” on the same day, which was prior to the Commencement of the obligatory Licencing system. As such, the mandatory suspension of the licence could not be ordered by the judge, who indicated that he will happily endorse such suspension if and when such a prosecution arises in the future. There is no doubt that the judicial system is mirroring the distain that our legislators and a sizeable number of the general population hold with vaping at large, and particularly when young people are involved. Do yourself, your business, and the community that you serve a favour and continue to instruct your employees to obey the law and reinforce the shops policy regarding sales to underage children. There are no excuses, only very expensive convictions.
will now pay 0.5% for their contribution. We are aware that although the employer or their agent should be notified by the Department of Social Protection when the employee has begun to receive the State Pension (Contributary), this doesn’t always happen. It is in the joint interest of the employer and employee to ensure that you are applying PRSI in the correct class and at the correct rate, so you have a valid purpose for seeking from your over 66 employees as to whether they are in receipt of the State Pension or not. If they have elected to defer until after their 70th birthday, or were not entitled to the Pension, they will remain paying PRSI (as will the employer) but if they are, both parties can “save” money and switch to the new class.
Minimum pay rates for security workers to be increased Minister of State Alan Dillon said the increase provides greater certainty and stability for both employees and employers Minimum rates of pay in the security sector are to be increased from 28 September. A new Employment Regulation Order will provide for an increase in the minimum rate of pay for an adult worker in the sector from €15.41 per hour to €16.15 per hour. The national minimum wage rate is currently €14.15 per hour. The Employment Regulation Order will be signed by Minister of State for Employment, Small Business and Retail, Alan Dillon. Minister Dillon said it will deliver a “well-deserved pay increase for workers in the security sector”. “The security sector has continued to grow and evolve in recent years, with increasing levels
of professionalism and responsibility,” Mr Dillon said. “This Employment Regulation Order recognises the valuable contribution made by security workers and provides greater certainty and stability for both employees and employers throughout the sector,” he added. The Minister of State thanked the members of the Security Industry Joint Labour Committee and the Labour Court for their work in securing the outcome.
CSNA NEWS
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CSNA NEWS
Minister Burke has a very big decision to make There were reports in The Irish Times recently that the Low Pay Commission (LPC) had recommended (not unanimously) a 5.6% or 79 cent per hour increase to the current €14.15 hourly rate for adult workers aged 20 years and over. Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke is not obliged to accept this recommendation and would be entitled to put forward a different (or no) figure to be included in Budget 2027. While no Minister has amended the recommendation of the LPC in any of the previous years since the first LPC Report in 2015, there is always a first! The most recent statistics and projections of inflation in Ireland are all quite bunched between
3.3% (Bank of Ireland) -3.5% (Central Bank and European Commission). Were Minister Burke to consider an hourly increase of 50 cent it would represent a 3.53% increase, bringing the new hourly rate to €14.65. This would be the equivalent of €29,710 for a 39-hour week, with an additional 11.4% (PRSI) and 1.5% Auto Enrolment. In real terms, the hourly rate that the employer would pay is €16.54 at this level. We are very fortunate that this Minister has proven in a number of instances to understand the very real problems that small and medium sized employer’s encounter. We sincerely hope that both he and his Cabinet colleagues will reposition the LPC recommendation. ■
Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment. Pic: Leah Farrell / © RollingNews.ie
PRIME CONVENIENCE STORE & RESIDENTIAL OPPORTUNITY
GORTNAHOE, CO. TIPPERARY
An excellent opportunity has arisen to acquire a well-established convenience store and substantial three-bedroom residence in the heart of Gortnahoe, Co. Tipperary. Situated prominently on the R689 Main Street, the property occupies a site of approximately 0.087 hectares (0.215 acres) and is being offered for sale as a going concern. The independent convenience store has traded successfully from the location for approximately 40 years, with the current owners now planning retirement. The store benefits from a high-quality fit-out, including a modern glazed shopfront, LED lighting, commercial-grade flooring, deli counters and preparation area, refrigeration, EPOS system, shelving and extensive storage facilities. The property also offers a spacious and beautifully presented threebedroom, three-bathroom residence, including two en-suite bedrooms, a large kitchen/dining/living space, sitting room and double-height entrance foyer. The residence is finished to a high standard and includes double-glazed windows and a new oil boiler. Gortnahoe provides a strong local catchment, with the store serving the village and surrounding rural community. With limited local competition and its strategic position on the Urlingford–Clonmel route, this represents an attractive owner-occupier or investment opportunity, combining an established retail business with quality residential accommodation.
For Sale by Private Treaty. Expressions of interest: info@cahills.ie www.shelflife.ie | ShelfLife September 2026
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I’M WITH THE BRAND
‘Presence precedes performance’ Donna Ahern caught up with Irish Rugby Captain, Caelan Doris to discuss his continued role as Lucozade Sport brand ambassador and the standout moments of his sports career to date
Lucozade Sport ambassador and Irish Rugby captain, Caelan Doris
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
I’M WITH THE BRAND
Lucozade Sport ambassador and Irish Rugby captain, Caelan Doris hails from Lacken, Co. Mayo. A number eight for Leinster and Ireland, Doris began playing rugby with Ballina RFC before attending Blackrock College in Dublin from the age of 12. While at Blackrock, he was part of the school’s victorious Leinster Schools Senior Cup team in 2014 and captained the side in 2016. He went on to study psychology at University College Dublin and represented Ireland at Under-20 level for two years, captaining the team in his second season. Doris captained Ireland during their 2025 Six Nations campaign and was named Guinness Rugby Writers of Ireland Player of the Year. He has also been an ambassador for Ireland’s number one Sports Drink and Irish Rugby’s Official Hydration Partner for the past two years. Speaking to ShelfLife, Doris discusses what he has learned about the role hydration and nutrition play in performance — and how that knowledge has changed his own approach to training.
Winning the Grand Slam in Dublin is probably the standout moment of Doris’ rugby career
Q: Over the past two years working with Lucozade Sport, what have you learned about the role hydration and nutrition play in performance that has changed your own approach to training? A: The biggest thing I’ve learned is that performance is really an accumulation of small decisions. Hydration and nutrition aren’t always glamorous, but they’re two of the easiest ways to give yourself a better chance of performing well. You don’t notice them as much when you get them right, but you definitely notice when you don’t. Q: Looking back over your career so far, who has been the toughest opponent you’ve faced on the rugby pitch, and what made them such a difficult challenge? A: South Africa are probably the toughest team I’ve played against. They’re incredibly physical, but what stands out most is how clear they are on their DNA. They know exactly how they want to play and they execute it relentlessly. That’s always a great challenge. Q: For young boys and girls dreaming of playing professional rugby, what advice would you give them about developing both their skills and the right mindset? A: Enjoy the game first. The people who go furthest usually keep their curiosity and love for improving. Focus on mastering the basics & building good habits, be willing to make
mistakes, and aim to leave every session a little better than you arrived. Q: Captaining both Leinster and Ireland is a huge responsibility. How has leadership changed the way you approach training, preparation, and match day? A: Leadership has made me realise that your role is to create an environment where other people can thrive. Sometimes that’s setting standards, sometimes it’s listening, sometimes it’s challenging someone. It’s less about being the loudest voice and more about bringing out the best in the group. Q: Every athlete faces setbacks, whether it’s injuries or tough defeats. How do you stay motivated and bounce back when things don’t go your way? A: Setbacks have taught me that growth isn’t always linear. Some of the most difficult periods of my career have also been the ones I’ve learned the most from. You can’t always choose what happens, but you can choose how you respond. If you keep showing up each day and stay curious about where the growth lies within the challenge, you usually come out stronger. Q: Rugby demands peak physical and mental performance. What does your typical preparation look like in the days leading up to a big match? A: I believe performance is really built on habits. The focus is on priming habits in training during the week, sleeping well,
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“I believe performance is really built on habits. The focus is on priming habits in training during the week, sleeping well, eating well, staying hydrated and sticking to a routine that helps me feel calm, present and ready to perform.” eating well, staying hydrated and sticking to a routine that helps me feel calm, present and ready to perform. Q: Is there a match or moment in your career that stands out as the one, you’re most proud of, and why does it mean so much to you? A: Winning the Grand Slam in Dublin is probably the standout. It wasn’t just about the result, it represented years of commitment, growth and shared belief from a lot of people. Those moments remind you that while rugby can be incredibly demanding, it’s ultimately the people you share it with that make it so rewarding. Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given, and how has it influenced your career or your life away from rugby? A: Presence precedes performance. The more present you can be, the better your decisions, your connections and ultimately your performance become. Q: Fans see you on the pitch every week, but what’s something about you that most people don’t already know? A: I am pretty curious, especially when it comes to psychology, meditation, and human performance. I’m fascinated by trying to understand why people think and behave the way they do and what helps people grow, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. I spend a lot of my free time exploring that. ■
www.shelflife.ie | ShelfLife September 2026
16
OPINION
JOHN HEALY
general manager, CPM Ireland www.cpm-int.com
Grown-up “pester power” an opportunity for brands and retailers As more young adults continue to live at home, John Healy discusses how brands and retailers can capitalise on this to meet these changed family dynamics For years, retailers and brands have understood the impact of “pester power”: children spotting something in store, online or on TV and persuading their parents to put it in the trolley. But as we head into this year’s Golden Quarter, there is a much bigger version of pester power worth understanding: Pester Power has grown up and wields considerable influence on shopping decisions.
Failure to launch One of the most significant changes in Irish households in the last decade is the number of young adults continuing to live at home. Central Statistics Office (CSO) figures show that 41% of 18–34-year-olds were living with their parents at the time of Census 2022, compared with 37% in 2016. Among 25–34-year-olds, almost one in four were living in the parental home. Housing availability and affordability are obvious factors while, at the same time, the youth unemployment market has grown among 15–24-year-olds standing at 12.3% in July. Whatever the reasons, the commercial reality is that more households now contain several generations of adults living, eating, entertaining and making purchasing decisions together. This should influence how we approach the Golden Quarter. Back to school or college traditionally signals the great reset after summer, followed quickly by Halloween and then Christmas. The fundamentals for brands and retailers are more important than ever: Start early and forecast well, get the right products into the right stores and execute campaigns flawlessly. I have seen first-hand how effective the simple things can be. Pre-filled shippers or half pallets, for example, remove complexity at store level and get product on display quickly. Core lines that are available before
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the demand comes, rather than chasing it afterwards.
‘Compelling offerings’ There’s a real opportunity for brands and retailers to devise compelling offerings to meet these changed family dynamics, being crystal clear on who we are targeting. The young adult living at home is no longer the child accompanying a parent on the weekly shop – arguably they are more powerful. They may be the person introducing the household to a food trend they have seen on TikTok, suggesting a new wellness or protein product, a low or no-alcohol option, a different beauty brand or the ingredients for something they want to make at home. In other words, they may not control the household budget, but they increasingly influence where it is spent It also coincides with another significant behavioural change - where the home has become a much more important entertainment space. The cost-of-living crisis means that going out is often too expensive (particularly for younger adults) and families across every age group are finding ways to entertain and treat themselves at home. Notably Halloween falls on a Saturday this year and Christmas Day on a Friday, creating extended weekends and even more opportunity for “informal hospitality” and home gatherings. For brands and retailers, that should prompt some practical questions. Are seasonal ranges built around a realistic picture of today’s diverse family? Are we offering solutions for households where parent(s), twenty or thirty-somethings (and often grandparents!) are living together? Can we make entertaining easier through themed offers, relevant bundles, cross-category promotions and clearly merchandised choices? Can we cater simultaneously for indulgence and value, in a society much more preoccupied with wellness and healthy options?
Under pressure People under financial pressure don’t stop treating themselves, they are more selective about how they do it. In that context, value does not always mean the lowest price. It can mean helping somebody create a great night at home for eight people at a cost that makes sense, or an affordable opportunity to trade up on one or two elements that make the occasion feel special. That is where retailers and brands can be more creative together. Thinking beyond the individual stock keeping unit (SKU) and towards the occasion: Food and drink combinations, entertaining solutions, gifting, family celebrations and products that cater for different generations under the same roof. The easier we make the shop to navigate, with compelling offers - the easier the shopper will make the decision. Bear in mind that none of this creative thinking matters if execution fails. The Golden Quarter places extraordinary pressure on retail teams - as demand rises, ranges change quickly, displays need to be installed and replenished, and brands cannot afford to lose sales because either the resource was not there or the product was not on the shelf.
Scaling up At CPM we work in partnership with brands and retailers to meet that seasonal surge every year. We employ and deploy additional teams to help brands and retailers scale up quickly around all these big seasonal events. This presents another opportunity in itself - at a time when youth unemployment is high, seasonal retail work can provide young employees with valuable employment and experience, while giving brands the flexible resources they need during their most important trading period. The Golden Quarter has always rewarded creativity, expert planning and execution. What is changing are the households we are catering for and the brands and retailers that understand who is influencing what goes in the trolley, not just who is paying for it, will be best placed to convert that grown-up pester power into increased sales and growth. ■
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ADVISOR: RECRUITMENT
The second first impression A poor first day can do plenty of damage. Nikki Murran discusses the importance of making a good impression to convince your new employee to stay We talk a lot about how difficult it is to recruit good people into grocery retail. We talk about candidate shortages, salaries, working hours and how hard it is to get somebody to accept an offer. Then, when they finally say yes, everyone breathes a sigh of relief and moves on to the next vacancy. The problem is that accepting the job is only half the battle. The next challenge is getting them to stay. Their first impression of the business from the interview may have gone well, but their second first impression starts on their first day! Arguably this one is even more important. Research from BambooHR suggests employers have around 44 days to convince a new employee that they have made the right decision. To be honest, in retail, it can take considerably less than 44 days to convince them they have made the wrong one.
First impressions A poor first day can do plenty of damage. The manager was not expecting them, there is no uniform ready, nobody knows who is training them and their clock in or till login details have not been set up. They spend the first hour standing awkwardly beside the customer service desk while somebody tries to figure out what to do with them. It may sound like a small thing, but first impressions matter. Candidates are judging a business just as much after accepting the job as they were during the interview. Good onboarding really starts before the employee arrives. It begins with an accurate job description and an honest interview. If the role involves early starts, late finishes, weekends or regular duty-management cover, say so. Overselling the position might get somebody through the door, but it will not keep them there. I regularly speak to candidates who leave roles within the first few months because the job turned out to be completely different from the one discussed at interview. Sometimes the responsibilities are different. Sometimes the hours bear no resemblance to what was agreed. In other cases, the promised training simply never happens.
Keep in touch Once the offer is accepted, keep in touch. Candidates serving four weeks’ notice can easily feel forgotten, particularly when their current employer is trying to convince them to stay. A quick call from the hiring manager to say they are looking forward to having them join can make a bigger difference than you might think. It is also worth sending the practical information in advance. Where should they park? Who should they ask for? What should they wear? ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
NIKKI MURRAN Director, Grocery Retail Recruitment, Excel Recruitment www.excelrecruitment.com
What time will they finish on the first day? New starters do not want to chase these details, and nobody wants to arrive for their first shift already feeling like a nuisance. When they do arrive, have a plan. It does not need to be anything fancy, but somebody should be expecting them and should take responsibility for showing them around. Introduce them to the team, explain how the store operates and give them a proper idea of what their first week will look like. Assigning a buddy can work particularly well in grocery retail. Managers are pulled in every direction and may not always be available to answer every question. An experienced, approachable colleague can help the new starter learn the everyday things that rarely appear in a handbook, from where stock is kept to who has a habit of disappearing when the tills get busy.
Training day Training is another area where good intentions often fall apart. Telling somebody to follow Mary for a few days is not really a training plan, especially if Mary has not been told. Set out what the employee needs to learn in their first week, first month and first three months. Cover the obvious areas such as systems, procedures, health and safety and food hygiene, but also spend time on the standards that matter to your particular store. It’s fine for this learning to be selfdriven – allow them to take come control and responsibility for getting through the areas – but the plan needs to come from the employer. This is especially important for managers. An experienced department or store manager may understand retail, but they still need to understand your business. They need to know what authority they have, what the immediate priorities are and where the challenges sit within the team. Experience can shorten the learning curve, but it does not remove it.
Check in Regular check-ins are also important. These do not have to be formal meetings with pages of paperwork. Ten focused minutes can be enough. Ask how they are settling in, whether the role is what they expected and if
ADVISOR: RECRUITMENT
there is anything they need more support with. Crucially, listen to the answer. Onboarding should not end after the first week either. New starters are often given plenty of attention for a few days and then largely left to get on with it. That is usually when the questions, doubts and frustrations begin to appear.
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Recruitment is expensive, and replacing somebody who leaves after six weeks is frustrating for everyone involved. In many cases, the problem is not the person or even the job. It is how the move was managed. Getting somebody to accept an offer is a great result. Making sure they are still happy they accepted it 44 days later is the real win. ■
20 ADVISOR: HR
Double employment in Ireland: What employers need to know Irish law does not prevent employees from working for more than one employer, writes Caroline Reidy As employees look for extra income and greater financial flexibility, more employers are encountering situations where staff have more than one job. This is often called double employment, double jobbing or parallel employment. The good news for employers is that having a second job is not automatically prohibited under Irish law.
There is no general ban on second jobs Irish law does not prevent employees from working for more than one employer. In general, employees can take on additional work outside their normal working hours.
However, this is not an unrestricted right. Employers still need to consider a number of factors, including: • The employee's contract of employment • Working time and rest break requirements • Health and safety obligations • Confidentiality and data protection concerns • Potential conflicts of interest • Employee performance • Immigration or employment permit restrictions where relevant. The European Union (Transparent and Predictable Working Conditions) Regulations 2022 strengthened employee protection in this area. Employers should not prevent employees from taking up work with another employer outside their agreed working hours, or treat them unfavourably for doing so, unless there are objective and legitimate reasons for the restriction. As a result, blanket bans on secondary employment are unlikely to be appropriate unless they can be objectively justified and are proportionate.
When can employers restrict outside employment? While employees can generally take on extra work, employers may impose restrictions where there is a genuine business or legal reason. Any restriction should be reasonable, necessary and proportionate. Examples of valid reasons for restricting outside employment include: • Protecting health and safety where excessive hours could cause fatigue • Ensuring compliance with legal working time and rest requirements • Protecting confidential information, trade secrets or intellectual property • Preventing conflicts of interest, whether actual or perceived • Protecting business relationships and organisational integrity • Complying with industry-specific legal or regulatory requirements. Where restrictions apply, they should be clearly set out in employment contracts or workplace policies and linked to a legitimate business need. Restrictions should not be imposed simply because an employer would prefer staff to work for only one organisation. ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
CAROLINE REIDY Caroline Reidy, head of NFP HR Solutions, HR and Employment Law specialist If you are an organisation based in the Republic of Ireland and require further information or advice relating to HR, please do not hesitate to contact NFP Ireland’s office on (066) 7102887 or email hrsolutions@nfpireland.ie.
Working time is a key consideration One of the most important legal issues relating to double employment is compliance with the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997. Section 33 of the Act states that an employer must not employ someone during a period in which they have worked for another employer if the combined hours would exceed the maximum hours that could legally be worked for one employer during that period. This applies across periods of 24 hours, seven days and 12 months. If an employer knows, or reasonably suspects, that an employee is working elsewhere, they should make enquiries to ensure legal working time limits and minimum rest periods are being observed. Employers may ask employees to disclose relevant working hours for this purpose. However, only information necessary to assess compliance should be requested, and data protection requirements apply to any personal information gathered.
Employees’ existing contractual obligations still apply Even where an employee is permitted to take on a second job, their existing obligations to their employer continue to apply. Permission to work elsewhere does not reduce an employee’s responsibilities in relation to performance, attendance, confidentiality, loyalty, or any other contractual or statutory duties.
Taking a practical approach Employers should assess requests for outside employment on a case-by-case basis rather than applying blanket rules. A useful starting point is to review the employees’ contract and any relevant workplace policies to determine whether provisions relating to secondary employment or conflicts of interest already exist. Employers should then gather only the information needed to assess the arrangement, considering factors such as: • Working time and rest periods • Fatigue and health and safety risks • Confidentiality concerns
ADVISOR: HR
• Conflicts of interest • Immigration or employment permit requirements where relevant. Employers should document the reasons for approving the arrangement, approving it subject to conditions, or refusing it where there is an objectively justified reason. The position should also be reviewed if circumstances change.
Dealing with concerns about double employment If an employer believes an employee is working for another employer during their scheduled working hours, the issue should be dealt with through the organisation's normal internal procedures. Any disciplinary action should be proportionate and consistent with the employer's disciplinary procedure. Employers should assess the seriousness of the concern, consider the employee's explanation, and determine whether working time requirements, performance expectations or business interests have been affected before deciding on an appropriate outcome. The importance of proportionality was emphasised by the High Court in Transdev Ireland Limited v Caplis [2020] IEHC 403. The case confirmed that even where there are legitimate concerns about outside employment, dismissal will not automatically be a reasonable or proportionate response.
Conclusion Double employment is not prohibited under Irish law, and many employees can legally undertake additional work outside their normal working hours. However, employers also have the right to protect legitimate business interests where genuine concerns arise. By having clear contractual provisions, making reasonable enquiries where necessary, assessing each situation individually and ensuring that any restrictions or disciplinary action are objectively justified and proportionate, employers can manage double employment in a practical and legally compliant way. ■
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22
COVER STORY
‘Run by retailers for retailers’ Just a week into her new role as director general of RGDATA Roseanne Regan caught up with Donna Ahern to discuss what she hopes to achieve during her leadership and her vision for the future of the organisation
RGDATA, the representative body for the independent retail grocery sector in Ireland recently announced the appointment of Roseanne Regan as director general. Regan very recently commenced her new role on the 7 September, 2026. She succeeds outgoing director general, Tara Buckley who retired after 22 years leading the organisation. Prior to her new role Regan worked as the head of Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability with RedClick. She has over 15 years of senior experience across the aviation, insurance, FMCG and retail sectors. She led communications across European markets at Ryanair before holding senior roles at Liberty Mutual Insurance, remaining with the business through its acquisition by Generali and rebrand to RedClick, where she served as head of Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability and sat on the company’s Management Committee. A Galway native, Regan began her career at RGDATA and brings extensive experience in media relations, public affairs, stakeholder engagement and policy advocacy. Speaking with ShelfLife, it is clear that Regan is determined to support RGDATA members and build on the organisation’s strong foundations in her new role as director general. “RGDATA members are at the heart of their communities. Providing employment, delivering local services and providing the public with convenience, choice and competition,” Regan states. “The opportunity to represent independent retailers and advocate for a sector that plays such an important role in communities right across Ireland was a huge part of the appeal for me. It’s a role where you can see the direct impact of successful representation and advocacy on individual businesses and, in turn, on the communities they serve. I find that really motivating,” Regan adds. “There’s a personal connection for me too. I worked with RGDATA early in my career and it was where I got my first taste of representation, as well as public affairs and advocacy. That went on to become a big part of my career, so coming back now as director general feels like coming full circle.”
Taking the lead Having started her career with RGDATA, Regan is excited to return to the organisation in a leadership role. “It’s great to be back,” she says. “I’ve continued to support the independent retail grocery sector and follow RGDATA over the years, so there’s something very special about returning now to lead the organisation. It’s an exciting step up for me personally after building my career in business, communications and public affairs across FMCG, aviation and insurance. I’m looking forward to bringing that experience to the role.” >> Roseanne Regan, director general, RGDATA
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24 COVER STORY
>> Challenging times Regan is acutely aware of the significant challenges facing the industry, particularly the pressures currently facing independent grocery retailers across Ireland. “The cost of doing business is by far the biggest challenge. The Government seems to think that retailers have an unlimited ability to pay increased costs and charges,” Regan comments. “Independent retailers are dealing with rising employment, energy, insurance and regulatory costs, as well as increases across many of their other day-to-day operating costs. It’s the cumulative impact of all these pressures that is particularly challenging for businesses operating on already tight margins,” she adds. “The Government and the civil service need to realise that any additional charge or cost imposed on RGDATA members comes at a huge cost to the business. It negatively impacts on competitiveness, investment and ultimately viability.”
Top priorities It is clear that Regan has identified her key priorities and is determined to make meaningful progress on them over the next 12 months. “I’m a week into the role, so my first priority is to listen to and learn from our members. I want to spend time with our members and understand first-hand what they need from RGDATA as their representative organisation,” Regan says. “RGDATA exists for our members and will continue to put their interests at the heart of our activities. The organisation is genuinely run by retailers for retailers - the Board is reflective of a range of independent retailers, from different parts of Ireland and all with different types of operations,” she adds. “So far it is clear to me that the rising costs of doing business, particularly employment, regulatory and energy costs, are the most immediate challenges and will be a major focus for us, including through our Budget 2027 campaign. “We’ll also continue RGDATA’s important work on issues such as tackling retail crime and ensuring the planning system promotes sustainable planning and development which supports independent retail and vibrant town centres,” Regan notes. “I’d also encourage independent retailers to get in touch. If there’s an issue affecting your business, tell us. We need to know what’s happening on the ground to represent the sector effectively.
‘Strong foundations’ Taking over from Tara Buckley after her 22 years of leadership means Regan has big shoes to fill, but she is determined to build on the strong foundations and lasting legacy her predecessor leaves behind. “Tara [Buckley] has done an incredible job and leaves a lasting legacy at RGDATA. She
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has built an organisation that is highly respected by Government, policymakers and, most importantly, its members,” she highlights. “I learned a huge amount from Tara earlier in my career, and many of those lessons have served me well in different roles since. My job now is to build on those strong foundations and make sure RGDATA continues to be an effective representative and advocacy voice for independent retailers as the challenges facing the sector evolve.
Extensive experience Regan’s extensive experience across communications, public affairs and sustainability will stand to her in her new role, providing valuable experience and insight as she advocates on behalf of RGDATA members. “My experience has taught me the importance of listening, getting to the heart of an issue and making a clear case for the people you represent,” Regan explains.
“RGDATA exists for our members and will continue to put their interests at the heart of our activities. The organisation is genuinely run by retailers for retailers - the Board is reflective of a range of independent retailers, from different parts of Ireland and all with different types of operations.” “I have always worked for businesses and organisations in the private sector in fastmoving and dynamic roles. For example, working as communications manager at Ryanair was an incredibly fast-moving demanding environment and was great training for acting quickly and making sure your voice was heard,” she adds. “My time with RedClick, previously Liberty Insurance, gave me strong experience in public affairs, regulation and sustainability. “I’ve worked across very different sectors in different businesses, but ultimately good advocacy and representation come back to having the evidence, understanding who you need to influence and making your case effectively in a timely manner. That’s the experience I’ll bring to representing RGDATA members,” Regan notes.
Shaping government policy So, what role does she see RGDATA playing in shaping government policy and supporting independent retailers over the coming years? “RGDATA has a strong reputation with Government and policymakers as a credible and trusted voice for independent retailers. We tell it as it is, we back up what we say with evidence and, importantly, with what our
members are experiencing on the ground,” she highlights. “RGDATA has led the way on so many issues that matter to retailers and through the close involvement of members, speaks with authority and integrity. “That credibility has been built over many years, and I want to protect it. I’ll use that voice to represent members, influence policy, challenge proposals where we need to and push for practical and meaningful outcomes for our members.”
Sustainability initiatives Regan is also focused on helping independent retailers respond to the growing importance of sustainability and changing consumer expectations, while ensuring they remain competitive and continue to adapt to the evolving retail landscape. “Independent retailers have always had to adapt to survive and compete. They know their customers incredibly well and are constantly reinvesting in their businesses, changing their offer and finding new opportunities as customer needs change,” she says. “Sustainability is part of that too. In many ways, RGDATA members are the original “green grocers”. Many have made significant investments in their stores to reduce energy use and costs, while waste reduction and supporting local suppliers have long been part of how they operate,” Regan adds. “The challenge is making sure rising costs and regulation don’t restrict their ability to keep investing and adapting, and that’s where RGDATA has an important role to play in tackling those barriers.”
Looking ahead Looking ahead to the next five years, Regan has a clear vision for RGDATA and is focused on ensuring the organisation continues to make a meaningful difference for its members, while supporting a thriving and sustainable independent retail sector for generations to come. “Ultimately, I want RGDATA to continue making a real difference to our members’ businesses. RGDATA will be a tireless advocate on behalf of the sector, fearlessly representing our members interests with Government, politicians, regulatory and trade bodies. Retailers need to know that we’re firmly in their corner - putting in the hard yards and staying on the issues that matter until we get results,” she says. “I want to see independent retail thriving in five years’ time. These businesses are at the heart of communities across Ireland. We need an environment that allows them not just to survive, but to invest and grow. We need to make this a sector that continues to thrive through generations of owners and operators. “If RGDATA has helped make that happen, that will be success for me,” Regan concludes. ■
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26 FEATURE
Government’s NDP: What retailers need to know Owen Clifford, head of Retail Sector, Bank of Ireland, discusses the potential impact of the Government’s National Development plan on the Irish retail sector The Irish Government’s National Development plan (NDP) commits €275.4 billion of public investment for 2026 to 2035. This represents a growth opportunity for the Irish retail sector by supporting housing growth, transport access, regional development, utilities/ energy resilience and broader economic activity. Here are some areas that Irish retailers need to focus upon to capitalise on same in the years ahead.
Building communities in retail The NDP aims to unlock housing delivery, including support for around 300,000 additional homes by 2030. These new communities will need to be serviced by grocery/convenience, pharmacy and ancillary retail outlets. Building communities in retail utilising both physical and digital formats is key to support and sustain customer engagement. As shoppers, our desire for a sense of community is driving the trend toward experiential retail—where the shopping experience itself is part of the appeal. Offering services or products that add to our lifestyle/sense of community, rather than just selling a commodity is therefore important. Retailers that proactively use loyalty schemes, a range of in-store events, sponsorship support of local charities/ sports clubs etc will be well-positioned to cultivate a sense of relationship/belonging with their customers. These initiatives should also in a non-invasive manner facilitate customer participation and feedback, allowing the retailer to further develop product offerings and service improvement that match the priorities of these new communities.
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
Owen Clifford, head of Retail Sector, Bank of Ireland
FEATURE
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Urban and regional regeneration The NDP has a strong focus on revitalising our city and town centres into thriving communities. International evidence demonstrates that balance and diversity is key to successful regeneration; A strategy that inter-links retail with residential housing, flexible office space, hospitality/ entertainment options along with a focus on leisure/wellness and historical heritage is a positive first step in this regard. This approach requires buy-in from a range of stakeholders/interested parties including the retail sector. The historic focus of many city-centre stores was solely on selling products to tourists, students and commuters/day-trippers. This is now changing to reflect the expectations of the modern consumer and will need to continue to evolve to ensure a more “communitycentred” city-centre is nurtured into the future. The physical store has an instrumental role to play in meeting the expectations of the modern customer. A retail space located in the city/town centre provides retailers with the opportunity to showcase their brand, engage with a broader, more diverse demographic (mix of commuters, tourists, day-trippers etc), trial new concepts and transition their business to an integrated, omnichannel model. In transforming these stores into an experience-led proposition – a more fertile environment for gathering customer feedback and insights is created – the bedrock of any solid customer loyalty/ engagement strategy. In this model – less is more – retailers will reduce store numbers but will retain/seek larger-footprint or more high-profile spaces within urban centres. While differentiated in nature these stores will act in tandem with their suburban/retail park outlets to facilitate accessible delivery/ pick-up/return options etc to support a more user-friendly customer experience and maintain footfall/engagement across their wider store network. This strategy aligns with a more balanced/mixed-use urban centre proposition as outlined above. It also facilities the development of partnerships – complementary brands sharing space – adding value and choice to the consumer in an intuitive manner.
Convenience
Next steps
The NDP’s mission to develop regional locations and a more robust transport infrastructure presents an opportunity for accessible, convenience focused retail propositions. Given life is busy, smaller format stores are well-positioned to thrive in an environment where customers are seeking facilities to complete regular top-up shopping trips. As consumers we really value convenience and our expectations in this respect are increasing annually – we want to be able to browse online & in-store, get real-time pricing, next day delivery and order online + pick-up in store for a wider range of products. While COVID-19 accelerated the digital transformation of the sector, considerable investment and development is still required by Irish retailers to meet customer expectations.
The Irish retail community need to embed the NDP into their strategic models to capitalise on the opportunities and mitigate any potential disruption linked to same:
Compress this workstream into three distinct phases: 1. Going online 2. Integrating the online, physical store and supply-chain elements (Omnichannel) 3. Refining the proposition to a seamless, user-friendly, consistent model (Optichannel). At present – the majority of Irish retailers sit between stages one and two of this roadmap. A more robust, integrated transportation and supply-chain infrastructure under the NDP should reduce friction in the consumer journey – facilitating quicker delivery and an opportunity to develop strategic fulfilment hubs nationwide. Investment in the Irish transportation and energy infrastructure nationwide should also facilitate a refreshed approach to forecourt (incorporating EV charging hubs), food to go and transit adjacent store opportunities nationwide.
• Map NDP-backed housing, transport and regeneration schemes against existing and target store catchments by actively monitoring planning approvals, new housing completions, transport milestones and demographic growth • Assess the opportunity for smaller store formats in expanding residential communities where every day needs are potentially underserved • Monitor and plan for access and disruption risk to existing stores impacted by major works on road, rail and commuter networks linked to the NDP • The implementation of the NDP should act as a catalyst for robust employment statistics – supporting consumer confidence and purchasing power. Retailers need to balance this with the potential inflationary impact on personnel costs along with the ongoing depression of consumer sentiment from wider geopolitical events. Overall, the NDP should be viewed as an opportunity for Irish retailers to align their strategy with the investment focus of the Irish Government. New housing developments, more accessible commuter flows and improved local infrastructure should increase demand for community focused retail propositions. While change is constant so are the core principals of retail: Service/Standards, Accessibility and Value. Irish retailers need to continually develop their people/offering while putting measures in place to know, understand and effectively serve the Irish consumer when, where and how it suits them best. Planning for the future needs to start now. ■
www.shelflife.ie | ShelfLife September 2026
28 STORE PROFILE
Applegreen Daybreak McLoughlin’s Dealer Service Station Ballaghaderren
From Ballaghaderreen to Applegreen Paul and Monica McLoughlin’s store in Ballaghaderreen recently went through major renovations, which transformed the store into a more modern, welcoming and comfortable environment for both their customers and staff. ShelfLife reports
P
aul and Monica McLoughlin opened their shop in 1989 as a husband and wife team, with a vision to build something of their own and serve the local Ballaghaderreen community. In 1999, the shop was demolished and rebuilt, marking an “exciting new chapter” in their journey. Around ten years ago, the McLoughlins joined the Applegreen family, and since then they have“continued to grow from strength to strength”. Speaking with ShelfLife, they noted:“Today, we are proud of how far we have come and remain committed to serving our customers and our community for many years to come.” They currently employ around 20 members of staff, with the team split fairly evenly between full-time and part-time roles.
“There is a real pride in the town and its heritage, while initiatives across arts, culture, sport and community development continue to bring people together,” they explain. “Ballaghaderreen is also a diverse and evolving community, with new residents adding to the character
and energy of the area. For us as a local business, being part of that community is something we value greatly, and we are proud to serve the people of Ballaghaderreen and the surrounding area.”
Fuel partner and forecourt business Applegreen plays an important role in the success of their forecourt business, providing them with a“strong and trusted fuel brand that customers recognise and rely on”. “Their support, expertise and investment in the forecourt proposition help us remain competitive and deliver a high-quality service to our customers,” the >>
About Ballaghaderreen Ballaghaderreen is a vibrant market town in west County Roscommon, surrounded by beautiful countryside and a close-knit network of rural communities. What really sets the area apart is its strong sense of community, with local clubs, organisations, businesses and residents working together to support one another and make the town a welcoming place for everyone. ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
Fresh food prepared daily serving breakfast lunch or dinner
A Powerful Partnership
100% Irish owned and operated company
Flexibility of offering with Platts, Supply and Consignment
Applegreen fuel card drives fleet business
Fully automated forecourt system
Become an Applegreen Dealer Partner
Edd Ryan
Mel Lundy
David Watson
Business Development Manager Munster, South Leinster edd.ryan@applegreen.com
Business Development Manager North Leinster, Ulster mel.lundy@applegreen.com
Business Development Consultant West Leinster, Connacht david.watson@applegreen.com
(086) 078 8079
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30 STORE PROFILE
“Through our partnership with Musgrave and Applegreen, we can access a wide range of offers and promotional support, helping us to provide customers with genuine value while maintaining the quality and service they expect.”
>> McLoughlin’s point out.“Being part of the Applegreen network also gives us access to the strength of a national brand while allowing us to maintain the personal, community-focused approach that has always been at the heart of our business.”
Local community As a local business, they are“proud to support” the clubs, groups and initiatives that make such an important contribution to our community. “We regularly support local sporting clubs, community organisations and fundraising initiatives, helping where we can and giving back to the people and organisations that support the area,” they say. “We believe that being a successful local business comes with a responsibility to play an active role in the community, and we are delighted to support the many people who work tirelessly to make Ballaghaderreen a great place to live and work.”
Why Applegreen? So why did they choose Applegreen over other Symbol Groups? “We chose Applegreen over other symbol groups because it offers the right balance of strong brand recognition, professional support and a clear understanding of what independent retailers need,” the McLoughlins highlight.
McLoughlin’s deli team at the newly refurbished Munch & Co deli bar
“The combination of a trusted brand, competitive offering, marketing support and continued investment in the business has helped us stay relevant and competitive while retaining the local, personal service that our customers value. We have been part of Applegreen for around ten years and have seen the business go from strength to strength during that time.”
Parent store support As their parent store brand, Musgrave provides valuable support across all areas of the business, helping us to operate efficiently and remain competitive in a constantly changing retail environment. “From purchasing and promotional support to marketing, technology, training and ongoing business advice, we benefit from the scale and expertise of a major retail group while still retaining our independence and strong local identity,” they say.“Their support has been an important part of helping us
A look inside McLoughlin’s newly refurbished store
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
develop the store and continue to meet the changing needs of our customers.”
Cost-of-living crisis Providing good value for their customers is a key priority for the McLoughlins, particularly during the ongoing cost-of-living pressures facing households. “We work hard to offer competitive prices across our range, with a strong focus on promotions, value lines and everyday essentials,” they say. “Through our partnership with Musgrave and Applegreen, we can access a wide range of offers and promotional support, helping us to provide customers with genuine value while maintaining the quality and service they expect. As a local store, we understand the importance of making every euro go further and strive to ensure our customers feel they are getting good value every time they shop with us.”
Major renovations and upgrades The McLoughlin’s are“extremely proud” of the major renovations that they have recently completed, transforming the store into a more modern, welcoming and comfortable environment for both their customers and staff. The work included modernising their dining area, creating new customer toilet facilities, completely renovating the shop floor, extending the kitchen and investing in new equipment. “These improvements have significantly enhanced the overall customer experience while also creating a better working environment for our team. We are very proud of what we have achieved and are hugely grateful for the support and guidance we received from both Applegreen and Musgrave throughout the project, which helped us bring our vision for the store to life,” they conclude. ■
APPOINTMENTS
31
Circle K Ireland appoints Paul Dixon as managing director Circle K Ireland has recently announced the appointment of Paul Dixon as managing director leading Circle K’s Irish business. He commenced his new role on 1 August 2026, with responsibility for a business that employs more than 2,300 people and operates a network of over 420 locations across the island of Ireland. Dixon succeeds Ciara Foxton, who has been promoted to senior vice president, operations for Circle Paul Dixon K Mid-Europe & Asia. managing director, Dixon brings more than 20 years Circle K of retail and commercial leadership experience to the role, including nine years with Circle K Ireland, where he has progressed through a series of increasingly senior leadership positions spanning operations, retail execution and commercial growth. Most recently, as Business-to-Business, Mobility and Sales (BMS) director, he led Circle K Ireland’s commercial business, including its network of independently operated Circle K locations, fuel card services and bulk fuel supply operations. Commenting on his appointment, Paul Dixon, managing director, Circle K Ireland, said: “Having worked across several areas of Circle K Ireland over the past nine years, I have seen first-hand the commitment of our people and retail partners to serving customers and communities across Ireland every day. “As Ireland’s market-leading forecourt and convenience retailer, Circle K has continued to evolve its offer to meet the changing needs of our customers, from food, coffee and convenience to fuel, EV charging and alternative fuels.”
GOLDEN IRISH LIQUID EGG WHITE
Tesco Group names Andrew Yaxley as CEO
Andrew Yaxley, CEO, Tesco Ireland and Northern Ireland
Geoff Byrne, CEO, The Booker Group
Tesco Group has announced the appointment of Andrew Yaxley as CEO of Tesco Ireland and Northern Ireland. He succeeds Geoff Byrne, who will become CEO of The Booker Group. Yaxley previously served as CEO of Tesco Ireland from 2015 to 2018, leading the business through a period of significant transformation and growth. He subsequently joined the Tesco Group leadership team as chief product officer before becoming CEO of Booker, the UK’s leading food and drink wholesaler. Byrne brings extensive experience in senior leadership roles to Booker, most recently as CEO of Tesco Ireland and Northern Ireland, where he led a period of sustained growth, investment, and market share gains, while further strengthening the business’s position with customers and communities across the island of Ireland. Both Yaxley and Byrne will continue to form part of the Tesco Group Executive Committee. ■
www.shelflife.ie | ShelfLife September 2026
Golden Irish Liquid Egg Whites (500g)
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32
SOCIAL DIARY
Crosta Mollica hosts Italian summer event Crosta Mollica recently hosted an Italian summer evening at The Terrace at The Devlin Hotel, Dublin city. Unlimited authentic sourdough pizza,
(L-R) Shelly O’Neill and Rachel Howard
summer spritzes, Italian beer, Häagen-Dazs ice cream and a relaxed evening celebrating all things Italian. Crosta Mollica is a global brand that has just
Jade Hayden and Perrie (her dog)
launched in Irish supermarkets this year using authentic Italian sourdough pizza using only the cleanest ingredients.
(L-R) James Patrice and Cassie Stokes
Jodie Dodrill
Nomadic announces charity partnership at VIP screening Nomadic recently hosted a VIP screening @ Movies at Dundrum to announce its charity partnership with The Gavin Glynn Foundation. This year’s 2026 fundraising goal is €10,000 to help support Irish families whose children
require specialist cancer treatment abroad. During the month of August, Nomadic donated five cents from every Nomadic Clusters Honeycomb pot sold directly to The Gavin Glynn Foundation, helping the charity
continue its vital work supporting families during some of the most challenging times of their lives. ■
(L-R) Gavin Glynn founders Jayne and John Glynn along with their son Billy
(L-R) Ian Mulvaney from ShelfLife, Peter McElwee, with William and Jodie Mulvaney
(L-R) Zoe Egan and Emma Gregory, Nomadic
(L-R) Michelle and Avery Shields
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
Come fry with me
Air Fryer
Hot Beverages
Confectionery
34 CATEGORY FOCUS Air Fryer
ShelfLife spotlights the latest launches, standout products and emerging trends in the fast-moving air fryer category
A
ir fryers have become a firm favourite in Irish kitchens, offering consumers a convenient way to create quick, tasty meals with less fuss. From frozen favourites and snacks to dedicated air-fryer innovations, the category continues to expand as shoppers seek speed, versatility and great flavour. The continued popularity of air fryers
reflects wider consumer demand for convenient cooking solutions that can help simplify mealtimes. Euromonitor has identified multifunctionality, affordability and healthier cooking as key factors supporting growth in the air-fryer category, with smart features and digital commerce also expected to shape the market. For retailers, the category continues to create opportunities across multiple food segments, from traditional frozen chips and potato products to chicken, snacks, appetisers and increasingly specialised products designed specifically for air-fryer preparation. The appliance has also broadened the occasions in which consumers can use familiar products, with shoppers able to prepare meals and snacks quickly while
using less oil than traditional frying methods. Research reported by FoodNavigator found that air-fryer cooking times can be reduced by 20–25% on average, adding to the appliance’s convenience appeal. As ownership becomes more established, manufacturers and food brands are continuing to develop products around the appliance, while retailers can capitalise on the trend through clear cooking instructions, dedicated ranges and merchandising that highlights speed, convenience and versatility. With consumers continuing to balance value, convenience and healthier cooking choices, the air fryer looks set to remain an important influence on the way shoppers approach everyday meals and snacks.
Slicey Pizza lunches new Hot Honey Pepperoni flavour Slicey Pizza, the handmade Italian sourdough pizza slice brand specifically designed for the air fryer, is continuing to deliver innovative ‘restaurant quality, ready in minutes’ pizza. Illustrating this the brand has just launched its latest flavour, Hot Honey Pepperoni, one of the hottest pizza trends currently taking over pizza menus across the US, UK and Ireland. Launching nationwide in Tesco and SuperValu Ireland, Centra, Spar and Eurospar, Hot Honey Pepperoni brings together the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, tapping into one of the biggest flavour trends of recent years. The new flavour brings this popular combination to the frozen category, giving consumers a fresh and exciting alternative to more traditional pizza flavours. The launch comes as Slicey Pizza continues
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
to experience rapid growth. The brand sold its first first one million pizza slices in Ireland within 14 months of launch, before selling a further one million pizza slices across the UK and Ireland in the last seven months. Slicey Pizza is now available in Sainsbury’s and Tesco stores across the UK and is in discussions with major UK retailers as it continues to expand its retail footprint. Slicey Pizza’s approach to innovation is rooted in bringing the latest food trends and restaurant-inspired flavours into a convenient frozen format. Hot Honey Pepperoni is a perfect example, combining a flavour flavour consumers are already seeking out in restaurants with the convenience of the air fryer and the brands quality handmade Italian sourdough base and restaurant quality product.
Slicey Pizza Hot Honey Pepperoni
Donegal Catch launches new Fish Goujons range Donegal Catch, ‘Ireland’s favourite frozen fish brand for almost 40 years’, knows that life is busy and finding something everyone will enjoy for dinner isn’t always easy. Between busy schedules and the daily “What’s for dinner?” dilemma, many families are looking for quick, tasty meal options
that take the stress out of mealtimes. To make mealtimes easier, Donegal Catch has launched a delicious new Fish Goujons range, available in three irresistible varieties: Crunchy Breaded, Chip Shop Battered, and Southern Fried. Made with tender mini fillets of white fish, these tasty goujons are a great choice for a wide range of meal occasions. Simply choose your favourite
flavour and create delicious wraps, tacos, salads, or even a spice box for an easy fake-away experience. Naturally high in protein and full of flavour, they are a delicious alternative to chicken or meat and an easy way to enjoy more fish as part of a balanced diet. Made in Ireland using responsibly sourced fish and are packed in fully recyclable packaging.
Donegal Catch Battered Chip Shop
Donegal Catch Breaded Crunchy Fish Goujons
Donegal Catch Breaded Southern Fried
the golden finish, fluffy centres and satisfying crunch people love. It is a simple proposition that fits neatly into everyday life: three easy ways to make tonight’s dinner considerably more interesting. Classic, Sweet or Rustic. Choose according to your mood, your meal or whichever pack catches your eye first. The fun continues beyond the freezer. The ’Find Your Gorge Us! Side’ campaign invites shoppers to discover whether they are Classic, Sweet, Rustic – or happily undecided. And
these packs were ‘made to catch eyes.’ Bold design and a confident brand personality give Gorge Us! immediate shelf standout, helping retailers turn the continued popularity of air-fryer cooking into renewed interest in the frozen category. With convenient cooking, three appealing choices and a lively launch campaign designed to build recognition and encourage trial, Gorge Us! Airfries bring fresh energy to the freezer aisle, and plenty of crunch to the dinner table.
Air Fryer
Hot Beverages
Confectionery
36 CATEGORY FOCUS Air Fryer
Things are heating up in the freezer aisle Gorge Us! is giving shoppers a fresh reason to head for the freezer with a new range created for Ireland’s favourite kitchen appliance. Gorge Us! launches with three tempting sides: Classic Cut Chips, Skin-On Rustic Chips and Sweet Potato Airfries. Made for the air fryer and just as delicious from the oven, they are quick to prepare and deliver
Gorge Us! Skin-On Rustic Chips, Classic Cut Chips and Sweet Potato Airfries
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
Air Fryer
Hot Beverages
Confectionery
38 CATEGORY FOCUS Air Fryer
Goodfella’s launches New York Style Deli Slices As ‘Ireland’s number one frozen pizza brand’, Goodfella’s is meeting consumer demand for convenient, high-quality snacking solutions with the launch of its New York Style Deli Slices. Building on the successful launch of the brand’s New York Style pizza range in 2025, Goodfella’s is now bringing the popular pizza-slice occasion from the high street to home freezers across Ireland. Available in two delicious flavours, flavours, Pepperoni and Margherita, Goodfella’s New York Style Deli Slices are the first first triangular shaped pizza slice to launch in Ireland’s frozen pizza category. Inspired by authentic New York deli and pizza shop culture, each slice delivers ‘a light yet satisfying eating experience’. Designed with convenience in mind, the slices can be prepared in the air fryer in just four minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy consumers, seeking a tasty, hassle-free snack without compromising on quality or flavour. Each slice is crafted using dough that is fermented for 48 hours before being stone baked, creating a thin and crispy base with the perfect balance of chewiness and crunch. Generously topped with quality ingredients, the slices deliver an eating experience that is bursting with flavour. flavour.
Goodfella’s Pepperoni New York Style Deli Slices
Goodfella’s Margherita New York Style Deli Slices
Source: Worldpanel by Numerator, Frozen Pizza, Value & Unit Sales, 52 weeks ending 14/06/2026
McCain’s Air Fryer range ‘makes mealtimes easier’ McCain’s Air Fryer range is helping Irish households make mealtimes easier, with potato products specially designed to deliver deliciously crispy results in just minutes. As air fryers continue to grow in popularity and become an increasingly common feature in Irish kitchens, consumers are looking for items that make the most of the appliance. McCain’s Air Fryer range combines convenience, quality and great taste, offering familiar favourites for simple, fuss-free meals.
The range includes Air Fryer Fries Crinkle Cut 750g, Air Fryer Deep Ridge Crinkle Cut 750g and Air Fryer Hash Brown Bites 600g. Each product has been developed with air-fryer cooking in mind, helping shoppers achieve a crisp and crunchy outside with a light and fluffy inside. From a quick midweek dinner to a family ‘fakeaway’ or satisfying snack, the range offers versatile options for everyday occasions. McCain’s Air Fryer range is available from
leading Irish retailers including Dunnes Stores, SuperValu and Tesco.
Follow us at LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/shelflife-magazine ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
w e n e h T
: e g Ran
g n i k a m worth
r o f e c spa
Air Fryer
Hot Beverages
Confectionery
40 CATEGORY FOCUS Air Fryer
Glenhaven’s Air Fryer Heroes: Frozen favourites for every family The air fryer has become a firm favourite in family kitchens, making it easier to get something delicious on the table when time is short. And when it comes to air-fryer favourites, Glenhaven has something for everyone. For over 40 years, Glenhaven has been making frozen favourites that fit into everyday family life, and this year, there are two new additions to the range. The new Glenhaven Baked Chicken Fillets and Baked Chicken Goujons are baked, not fried, with up to 70% less saturated fat and 17g of protein per serving. Quick and convenient to prepare, they’re a versatile addition to family mealtimes, whether it’s chicken wraps, loaded bowls, an easy midweek dinner or simply served with everyone’s favourite sides. They join a freezer full of Glenhaven Airfryer Heroes, including Original Recipe Chicken Tenders, Crispy Shredded Chicken Strips, Popcorn Chicken, goujons, battered nuggets and Cheese Bites. From feeding hungry kids after school to getting dinner sorted on a busy evening or serving up a Friday night fakeaway, the air fryer and a freezer stocked with Glenhaven make a pretty handy team.
For retailers, Glenhaven offers a broad range of air-fryer-friendly frozen favourites, bringing together taste, convenience, choice and innovation for today’s shoppers. Whatever the family favourite, there’s a Glenhaven Air Fryer Hero ready to go. ‘Come home to Glenhaven’. ■
Glenhaven Baked Chicken Goujons
Glenhaven Baked Chicken Fillets
Glenhaven Popcorn Chicken
AIR FRYER HEROES MAKING FAMILY MEAL TIMES EASY
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
Hot Beverages CATEGORY FOCUS
Confectionery
Some like it hot
41
Hot Beverages Air Fryer
ShelfLife explores the latest launches, consumer trends and innovations — highlighting what’s hot in hot beverages and how retailers can capitalise on demand
I
reland’s appetite for quality coffee and hot beverages continues to grow, with consumers increasingly looking for premium experiences, distinctive flavours and products that reflect changing lifestyles. From specialty coffee and barista-style options to tea, organic and sustainable choices, the category is full of opportunities for retailers. Hot beverages are a successful and growing market in Ireland, particularly within the coffee
shop and café sector. According to Bord Bia’s Irish Foodservice Market Insights Report 2025, the coffee shop and café sector in the Republic of Ireland generated €436 million in turnover in 2025, representing 4.9% growth in value compared with the previous year. Bord Bia also forecasts a further 5.0% growth in 2026, demonstrating continued consumer demand for coffee and other hot beverages. This suggests that hot beverages are a
Frank and Honest finds consumers wary of charges New research commissioned by Frank and Honest has found that 92% of Irish consumers have thought twice before purchasing because of extra charges. Nearly half (42%) actively avoid businesses that add them, while one in three (31%) would rather look for a cheaper alternative altogether. If Ireland could ban one extra charge forever, airline baggage fees would be the first out the departure gate (23%), followed by food delivery charges (17%) and airline seat selection fees (17%). The research also suggests younger consumers may be more tolerant of everyday extras. Four in ten (40%) 18–24-year-olds say they don’t mind additional charges if they’re clearly explained, compared with just a quarter (23%) of those aged 55–64, suggesting younger consumers are becoming more accustomed to everyday surcharges than older generations.
Coffee charges When it comes to coffee, the research found that consumers are more accepting of paying
Frank and Honest offers self-serve oat drinks without an additional charge
extra for certain additions, including caramel syrup, larger cups and extra shots. However, non-dairy milk alternatives appear to be a different matter. More than one in three consumers (35%) believe non-dairy milk alternatives should cost the same as dairy milk. Despite this, just 7% of coffee drinkers say they are happy to pay an additional charge for a non-dairy milk alternative. The research puts the average oat milk surcharge at 40 cent per cup.
strong sales opportunity in the Irish market, with consumers continuing to spend significantly on products such as coffee and tea. Grocery retailers should bear this in mind, as customers stopping for a hot beverage present a key opportunity to upsell complementary products, such as pastries, snacks, sandwiches and impulse purchases, increasing overall basket spend.
When deciding where to buy their coffee, Irish consumers identified great taste (65%) and good value (54%) among the factors that matter most, alongside avoiding unexpected additional charges. Frank and Honest offers self-serve oat drinks without an additional charge. Jennifer Whinney, brand manager, Frank and Honest, said: “Nobody enjoys discovering another extra charge at the checkout. “While we’ve become used to paying for everything from baggage fees to booking charges, this research shows that paying more for oat drinks is one extra many people still struggle to get behind. “At Frank and Honest, the belief is that choosing oat shouldn’t feel like an upgrade or a luxury, it should simply be another way to enjoy your coffee. “That’s why our self-serve oat drinks come at no extra cost. “Whether you’re team dairy, team oat or somewhere in between, we want people to enjoy great coffee, made the way they like it, without worrying about another surprise extra.” For more information visit: www.frankandhonest.ie
www.shelflife.ie | ShelfLife September 2026
Air Fryer
Hot Beverages
Confectionery
42 CATEGORY FOCUS Hot Beverages
Kenco unveils ‘best ever’ relaunch with improved taste, premium new look and major Irish activation campaign Kenco is set to unveil its biggest relaunch in years, bringing Irish shoppers a new and improved Kenco that delivers both a superior taste experience and a bold new look on shelf. The relaunch reinforces Kenco’s premium quality credentials while strengthening its distinctiveness in an increasingly competitive coffee category. Featuring enhanced recipes and improved coffee credentials, the range delivers what Kenco describes as its “best ever” taste, while the redesigned Jewel Jar packaging creates a more contemporary, premium and impactful presence in-store. To support the relaunch, Kenco is rolling out a major activation programme throughout September under its new “Uplift the Everyday” platform. The campaign will come to life through a striking Chancery Street mural in Dublin, designed to create standout visibility and spark conversation around the brand’s fresh new look. Alongside this, Kenco will deliver immersive sampling experiences, giving consumers the opportunity to experience the improved taste credentials firsthand. High-impact activations at Dublin’s iconic Golden Square and a major takeover of Heuston Station will further drive awareness, trial and consideration among Irish coffee drinkers. The programme will be amplified through PR, social and media activity, with a strong focus on building mental availability and reinforcing Kenco’s position as a premium yet accessible coffee choice for Irish consumers. Extensive in-store visibility and sampling will further support conversion at the point of purchase. With a striking new look, enhanced taste profile and one of its most ambitious activation campaigns to date, Kenco is aiming to reignite growth, recruit new shoppers and strengthen consideration across the category.
Evaro - premium coffee, roasted locally O’Reilly’s Wholesale ‘wanted to create something different in coffee — a premium brand built around quality, freshness, craftsmanship and responsible sourcing’. That’s where Evaro was born. Evaro is a carefully crafted blend of highquality Arabicas from Central and South America, combining washed, natural and honey-processed coffees for sweetness, depth and complexity. A small percentage of polished Robusta adds body and exceptional crema, without the bitterness traditionally associated with Robusta. The result is a smooth, naturally sweet and full-bodied coffee that works beautifully black or with milk.
Quality and freshness
Kenco Decaf, Smooth and Rich coffee
their sales and offer customers a genuinely premium experience.’
Responsibly sourced. Built for the future Evaro is developed with responsible sourcing in mind, working with farms and cooperatives
that prioritise ethical practices and fair conditions. Its ambition is to establish Evaro as a recognised premium Irish coffee brand, with plans to develop new blends, single origins and limited editions as the brand grows. ‘Evaro premium coffee. Locally roasted.’
Hot Beverages shoppers are highly engaged in-store Hot Beverages span different roles in-store, but all show higher-than-average engagement: • Machine Coffee/Pods is a standout Hero: strong intentionality with high engagement. • Traditional Tea and Coffee categories also skew towards the Hero role. • Hot Beverages to Go and Frothy Instant Coffee are more impulsive - highlighting the importance of visibility, newness and engaging execution. Shopper Intelligence Category Role Matrix
Quality starts with the bean. Evaro uses carefully selected, hand-harvested coffees, with a rigorous approach to quality ensuring only the finest beans make the blend. The coffee is roasted locally on the island of Ireland, helping maximise freshness and preserve the aroma and character of the beans, the brand noted. The blend has also been developed to perform exceptionally well through modern bean-to-cup equipment, delivering a consistently great cup throughout the day.
Built for independent retailers Evaro is currently exclusive to MyDaily, backed by O’Reilly’s Wholesale. Its retail partners have access to training, marketing support, POS materials and a complete range of bean-to-cup machinery, including servicing and technical support. So, O’Reilly’s is ‘not simply supplying coffee — it is providing a complete coffee proposition designed to help retailers grow
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
How to interpret the Category Role Matrix: Intentionality = planned vs impulsive purchase Engagement = willingness to browse, be disrupted or trade up • • • •
Hero: Planned + engaged… a reason to choose a store Trip Driver: Planned + low engagement… a functional purchase, make it easy Basket Builder: Impulsive + low engagement… needs a trigger Profit Booster: Impulsive + engaged… use premium/innovation Based on a survey of c. 49,627 Irish shoppers, July 2025–June 2026. Shopper insights available for 207 FMCG categories in 2026.
Caroline Reid, GM, Ireland 087 977 0552 caroline.reid@shopperintelligence.com
Air Fryer
Hot Beverages
Confectionery
44 CATEGORY FOCUS Hot Beverages
A
&
with Brendan Egan,
head of Coffee, Brevato
Q: How would you describe the biggest changes you’re seeing in Irish consumers’ coffee habits at the moment? A: The past few years have shown a shift in Irish consumers’ behaviour and preferences as they have become increasingly more discerning about their coffee choices. Convenience remains hugely important, but people are no longer willing to compromise on quality. They expect a great coffee whether they are in a café or picking one up on the go. We are also seeing growing demand for personalisation, non-dairy and iced coffee options, along with expectations of trending flavours and coffee alternatives such as matcha. Q: How does Brevato stand out from competitors? A: Brevato was developed with a very clear ambition: to bring a more elevated coffee experience to our customers. We have focused on every aspect of the proposition, from the quality of our coffee and equipment to our menu and overall brand experience. Backed by the scale and expertise of BWG Foods, Brevato combines exceptional coffee with a bright and welcoming experience in-store at selected SPAR, EUROSPAR, MACE and LONDIS stores nationwide. With Brevato’s Rainforest Alliance certification, our customers are assured that we are putting people and planet first in all that we do. Now with more than 100 locations nationwide, we are making great coffee more accessible to consumers across Ireland. Q: What is driving growth in premium and specialty coffee, and how can retailers tap into it? A: Coffee has become an affordable everyday treat, and consumers are increasingly prepared to spend more for a noticeably better
Brevato reports huge growth in iced coffee
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
experience, and for a greater range offering. They are more knowledgeable about quality than ever before, and expect barista-standard coffee wherever they buy it. For retailers, a strong coffee proposition can drive footfall, loyalty and basket spend. The key is to focus on the complete experience, and at Brevato that has been our priority and focus from the very beginning; bringing quality and convenience together in every sip. Q: Are consumers becoming more adventurous with coffee? A: Absolutely. We can see that while traditional coffees such as cappuccinos, flat whites and lattes remain popular, consumers are increasingly experimenting with iced coffee, alternative milks, flavours and limited-edition drinks. Iced coffee in particular has moved beyond being a seasonal trend and is now an important part of the year-round coffee market. Coffee alternatives such as matcha are also a very popular choice with consumers, and we at Brevato were delighted to introduce a ceremonial grade matcha offering from our bean-to-cup machines in selected stores earlier this year, to meet this need for our customers. Q: How important are sustainability and ethical sourcing? A: They are becoming increasingly important, particularly for younger consumers who want greater transparency around the products they buy. Traceability and responsible sourcing are key considerations for the coffee industry. At Brevato, we recognise sustainability as an
Brendan Egan, head of Coffee, Brevato
ongoing journey and along with our Rainforest Alliance Certification, we continue to look at opportunities to improve across sourcing, packaging, waste and our wider operations. Q: What is the next big opportunity for Brevato? A: The biggest opportunity is continuing to expand and bring great coffee to more locations and to meet consumers’ needs during more occasions. Given the high expectations and standards that we see our consumers demand, we feel best placed at Brevato to continue to meet those needs with our innovative and elevated coffee offering. Having recently opened a second stand-alone café at Thomas Street, Limerick, following the opening of our first café at Dublin’s George’s Dock last year, we are excited to explore ways in which the Brevato brand can pair great-quality coffee with exceptional food. We are always evolving and considering new locations, new drink formats and capitalising on trends, expanding our portfolio and finding ways to bring greater personalisation. Ultimately, while innovation is important for a fledgling brand, quality and consistency will always be at the heart of Brevato.
Brevato Coffee available in selected SPAR, EUROSPAR, MACE and LONDIS stores nationwide
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Lyons ‘Pieta Tea & Talk’ Ahead of World Mental Health Day this October, Lyons is ‘proud to support’ Pieta Tea & Talk, encouraging people across Ireland to put the kettle on, come together and start conversations that matter, while raising vital funds for Pieta’s life-saving services. In Ireland, a chat over a cup of tea is one of the simplest ways we connect. It can be a chance to catch up, check in or simply make time for someone. Through Tea & Talk, Pieta and Lyons are using that everyday ritual to help support people and families impacted by suicide and self-harm. Families, friends, workplaces, schools and communities across Ireland are encouraged to host their own Pieta Tea & Talk Morning around World Mental Health Day. Every cup shared, conversation started and euro raised will help Pieta continue to provide its vital services free of charge. The partnership will also be supported by limited-edition Lyons packs, with 20c from every promotional pack purchased donated to Pieta. For Lyons, it brings ‘Puts the Talk into Tea’ to life in a meaningful way, using the simple act of sharing a cup of tea to encourage connection, conversation, and support for Pieta’s vital work. Lyons invites you up today at www.TeaAndTalk.ie, host your own Tea and Talk with friends, family, colleagues or your community, and help raise vital funds to support Pieta’s free services.
Lyons ‘Pieta Tea & Talk’ special pack. 80 Biodegradable Tea Bags
Pukka Herbs expands functional tea range with Gut Health and Unwind blends
Pukka’s new Gut Health blend 20 Individually Wrapped Tea Bags
Leading herbal tea brand, Pukka Herbs, is expanding its wellness offering with two new functional blends, Gut Health and Unwind, designed to ‘support consumers’ everyday wellness rituals’. Pukka’s new Gut Health blend features a unique flavour combination of warming ginger and cooling peppermint, brightened with a touch of naturally fermented kombucha, offering a lively and refreshing taste. The new Unwind blend is crafted to support a state of normal mental relaxation. It combines chamomile with blueberry, adaptogenic ashwagandha, and nootropic lion’s mane, creating a fruity cup of calm. These new product launches offer health benefits that attract wellness-motivated shoppers and taps into the growing share of digestion and relaxation benefits. As with all Pukka teas, both blends support trade sustainability commitments. Each pack contains 20 individually wrapped and 100% home compostable tea bags, with fully recyclable outer packaging made from FSC certified materials. The home-compostable tea bags feature organic string that is stitched rather than glued. Both blends are also organic and fair trade certified according to the Fair for Life standard.
Lipton to bring a burst of flavour to Irish tea market with vibrant new range Lipton Teas & Infusions is set to refresh the Irish tea category with the launch of its new Lipton Hot range. Created to turn cold days into colourful moments, the new range redefines fruit and herbal tea with a fun and flavour-first proposition. With delicious variants designed to warm consumers up from the inside out and brighten their days. Made with ingredients from natural origin and real fruit pieces, Lipton’s new hot range includes Peach Paradise, Berry Bliss, Mango Passion and Lemon Ginger Refresh. Offering fresh, fruity taste at an accessible price point, the range is designed to broaden the appeal of fruit and herbal teas, enticing younger consumers and newcomers to the category with bold flavours that are fun and refreshing. The blends are served in plant-based tea bags within a convenient pack of 20. Crafted to deliver vibrant taste without calories or sugar, the new range re-imagines fruit and herbal teas, transforming it into an explosion of feel-good flavours that are as exciting to drink as they are delicious. Better still, the new range of Lipton ‘champions sustainability, as the Rainforest Alliance certified blends come in recyclable boxes, heightening the brand’s commitment to people and the planet’.
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
Lipton Peach Paradise 20 Pyramid Tea Bags
NO HYPE. ALL HERB. PUKKA MATCHA. NEW
Matcha with rich umami flavour
Matcha with bright lemon myrtle & tulsi
Matcha with warming vanilla & cinnamon
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Discover Lavazza, ‘Tales of Italy’ through Findlater & Co. Findlater & Co, share the Lavazza ‘passion for excellence’ that make every cup of coffee a unique experience. Proud to be an authorised distributor for Lavazza products and equipment across the island of Ireland let’s ‘take you on an authentic ‘Tales of Italy’ coffee journey’. According to Lavazza ‘Tales of Italy’ is inspired by places that are symbolic of the Italian espresso. Be transported to one of Italy’s most iconic cities with the Galleria blend: ‘Mirroring the elegance and style of Milan, the shimmering sophisticated spirit of Northern Italy and its cafés are captured in this 100% Arabica blend. Complemented with notes of chocolate and dried fruit these Rainforest Alliance Certified beans are further enriched with Cereja Apassita that delivers on hints of honey and raisin.’ To elevate your coffee offering and unlock new growth opportunities for your business, get in touch today. Discover how
Lavazza Galleria Coffee
‘Tales of Italy’ coffee, alongside expert training, dedicated support, innovative marketing and equipment solutions can help take your business to the next level. For further information visit:
www.findlaterandco.com/coffee/ or linkedin.com/company/findlater-co Contact: Paul Phipps, Commercial Coffee Channel Manager at: Paul.Phipps@FindlaterandCo.Com
Solaris Tea ‘shares its grá for Gaeilge with new loose-leaf range and autumn rituals’ Bewley’s Iced Toasted Hazelnut Mocha
Bewley’s Hot Brown Sugar Chai
Bewley’s Iced Peppermint Matcha
Bewley’s seasonal favourites hit all the right notes As the seasons change, customers naturally look for drinks that feel more comforting and indulgent. Familiar flavours remain important on autumn and winter menus, but consumers are increasingly looking to enjoy those favourites in new and interesting ways. Colder weather doesn’t mean the end of iced serves either. Seasonal iced drinks continue to offer something different, not forgetting the rise of flavoured and protein cold foams, which create even more opportunities for customisation. Bewley’s continues to monitor international trends and adapt them for the Irish market, with matcha and chai featuring across the global beverage landscape. This season, classic flavours including Pumpkin Spice, Cinnamon, Peppermint, Hazelnut and
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
Gingerbread have all been given a twist in the Bewley’s autumn/winter menu for customers so enjoy their favourite flavours in new drinks. The autumn/winter menu is designed around taste, versatility, and customer-led insights. Pumpkin Spice features in a classic latte and warming chai, while Cinnabun is served as both a latte and matcha. Winter brings Toasted Hazelnut Matcha and Mocha, followed by Peppermint Matcha and Mocha for Christmas. For operators, Bewley’s makes it easier to give consumers what they want and help drive footfall. Customisation is key, whether through a fully automated machine or a traditional coffee with a little extra flavour added. Ingredients across coffee, matcha, chai, chocolate, and syrups help deliver greater choice without unnecessary complexity. To order contact sales@bewleys.com, call (01) 816 0600 or visit: www.bewleys.com.
Galway-based organic tea blender and Certified B Corporation Solaris Tea is sharing its grá for Irish heritage with the launch of its new bilingual loose-leaf packaging. Created to celebrate the revival of Gaeilge and native plant folklore, the range features bespoke, hand-carved lino-cut artwork by renowned illustrator Steve Doogan. Blended and packed in Galway using 100% home-compostable materials, this zero-waste format offers retailers an authentic story of craftsmanship, sustainability, and premium shelf appeal. >>
Solaris Roobios Cacao Chai
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Ingredients:
Directions: • Place the water and Rooibos Cacao Chai in a small stainless-steel pot and simmer
Solaris Loose-Leaf Tea
The Velo Coffee journey continues: Cork roastery launches specialty in-store coffee solution Velo Coffee Roasters is bringing its farm-tocup story straight to the retail counter, launching a new specialty in-store coffee solution designed to turn outlets across Ireland into destinations for quality coffee. It’s the next chapter in a journey that’s taken the Cork-based roastery from small-batch bags to multi-award-winning Nespressocompatible pods - including the Great Taste Awards two-star winning El Salvador pod and Blas na hÉireann finalist Your Pace or Mine and now into a full, turnkey in-store programme built specifically for retail. The in-store solution is comprehensive: a specialty-grade coffee offer paired with the equipment and hands-on support outlets need to run it well, dropped straight into one of the sector’s strongest margin-delivering categories. As Ireland’s first B Corp certified coffee roastery, Velo has always led with
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• 2tsp Rooibos Cacao Chai loose leaf tea or two Rooibos Cacao Chai tea bags • 200ml water • 200ml Milk or plant milk of your choice • 1tsp honey or brown sugar (optional) • Sprinkle of Cacao powder or Cinnamon • Cinnamon twirl to stir.
gently with lid on for five-10 minutes. Or brew with boiling water and infuse for 10 minutes. • Strain the tea into two cups, stir in sweetener if using. • Steam milk of your choice until foamy and pour onto the tea. • Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cacao and a cinnamon twirl to serve. Enjoy!
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To embrace the cooler months, Solaris highlights loose leaf as the purest, most sustainable way to brew, spotlighting Solaris Rooibos Cacao Chai. Hand-blended by medical herbalists, this naturally caffeine-free infusion feels like a nourishing, spiced hot chocolate made with herbs. Combining organic South African rooibos with rich cacao peel, sweet honeybush, and warming spices, it is packed with protective antioxidants to ‘soothe the body, keep you cosy, and create a grounding evening ritual that helps you truly unwind’.
Confectionery
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Velo Dark Chocolate & Sweet Grapes Whole Coffee Beans
quality, transparency and connection from bean to cup and this programme is built to bring that same standard directly behind the counter, giving retail partners an in-store experience customers will notice. If you’re serious about growing your key margin-delivering sector, call Velo Coffee Roasters today. To mark the launch, Velo Coffee Roasters is offering an exclusive incentive for the first four outlets to sign up quoting “ShelfLife Hot Beverage feature: Four months of rent-free equipment.” ■
In-Store Coffee Solution for Retail To celebrate the launch of our retail solution, he fir first rstt four fourr o outlets utlets to sign up quoting th the “S Shelffliffe e Hot Hot Beverage Beve erag ge Supplement” Supple “Shelflife will rreceive eceive e ffour our m onths off rrent-free ent-free equipment. months Fo or more e info ormattion em mail: jjohn@velo.coffee ohn@ For information email:
tt.. (021 1) 4 32 3 044 (021) 432 3044
e. jjohn@velo.coffee ohn@ve elo.co offffe
w. velocoffee.ie
Brew it. Drink it. Live it.
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Sweet moments ShelfLife unwraps the latest trends and innovations defining the sugar confectionery market
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hile health-conscious habits are on the rise, Irish shoppers still love a sweet treat. Indulgence remains a strong driver, with demand for flavour-packed favourites alongside natural and sugar-free alternatives. The continued strength of confectionery around key seasonal occasions demonstrates the category’s ability to attract shoppers despite ongoing pressure on household budgets. In November 2025, Worldpanel by Numerator reported that shoppers spent an additional €8 million on boxed chocolates compared with the previous month, as demand began to build ahead of Christmas. For retailers, seasonal events provide an opportunity to refresh confectionery displays and create additional purchase occasions, with Halloween around the corner and Christmas fast approaching and other calendar moments. Sharing bags, boxed chocolates, individually wrapped sweets and novelty formats can all play a role in attracting shoppers.
Balancing core and new: A winning formula for confectionery growth Confectionery remains a powerful driver of impulse sales, meeting shoppers’ immediate treat missions, complementing food-to-go and top-up purchases, and creating incremental sales from products they may not have planned to buy when entering the store. To unlock that opportunity, retailers need to get the fundamentals right: A strong core range of well-loved brands, relevant innovation that brings something new to the fixture, engaging promotions, and excellent in-store execution.
Innovation that complements the core
At the same time, changing consumer preferences continue to influence product development. Reduced-sugar and sugar-free options offer alternatives for shoppers looking to moderate their intake, while premium products, new flavours and distinctive formats give brands opportunities to stand out in an increasingly competitive category. The breadth of the confectionery market also allows retailers to cater for different
budgets and occasions, from smaller impulse purchases at the till to larger sharing formats and seasonal gifting products. As consumers continue to balance value, health and indulgence, confectionery remains a resilient category. Strong seasonal merchandising, competitive pricing and continued innovation will be important in keeping shoppers engaged and maximising sales opportunities.
chunky format. A KitKat Formula 1 car shaped chocolate single (29g) bar and multi-pack (5x11g) were also launched earlier this year. Cookie Dough has added further momentum to KitKat this year, with the popular flavour launching across four Finger, two Finger, Chunky and Sharing Block formats to support both immediate-consumption and sharing occasions. Aero has continued to build excitement around its signature bubbles. Aero Caramel Flavour Bubbles, launched earlier this year, combines smooth caramel-flavoured bubbles with a milk chocolate and caramel-flavour shell in a 92g sharing bag. More recently, an Aero and Milkybar collaboration has brought together Aero’s bubbly texture and Milkybar’s signature taste in both a sharing bar and bite-
sized bag format, delivering a fresh proposition built on two established favourites. This year Yorkie is tapping into the continued appeal of contrasting flavours and textures with the launch of Yorkie Salted Caramel Pretzel Duo. The 66g bar combines solid chunks of salted caramel-flavour milk chocolate with crunchy pretzel pieces, delivering a salty-sweet taste and added texture to the bar while staying true to Yorkie’s chunky format. The launch also comes as Yorkie celebrates its 50th birthday in 2026.
KitKat, Nestlé Confectionery’s leading brand, has had an especially exciting year through its global Formula 1 partnership, creating a compelling platform that links KitKat’s famous break with the energy and excitement of the sport. The launch of a limited-edition KitKat Chunky Caramel variant supported the 2026 Formula 1 activity, bringing a new flavour to the brand’s recognisable crispy wafer and
KitKat Chunky Cookie Dough Flavour
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
Aero Milkybar range
Yorkie Salted Caramel Pretzel Duo
Rowntrees has delivered a very strong 2026 to date with value sales with over 11.8% and growth across core favourites and innovation. Within the Sugar Confectionery category, the new Rowntree’s Lollies range translates the fun and flavour associations of Rowntree’s ice lollies into a convenient sharing-bag format. The range includes three 130g variants, all made with real fruit juice: Fruit Pastilles Lollies, which builds on one of the brand’s best-known products; Sour Watermelon Flavour Lollies, a tangy option for shoppers seeking a more adventurous taste; and Mango Flavour Lollies, a bright, fruity addition to the fixture. >>
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d Ca SaLtEPrEtZeL R FlAvO
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>> Together, the variants give retailers a colourful sharing range that can support both everyday treat occasions and occasion-led displays. The strongest new product development (NPD) is innovation that adds breadth to the category without replacing the role of familiar favourites. Used well, it gives retailers a reason to refresh the fixture, encourage trial and prompt shoppers to add something new alongside products they already know and trust. That balance is especially important in confectionery, where established products continue to drive both planned and impulse purchases. Retailers should maintain strong availability on proven lines while using a focused selection of new products to reflect store size, location and shopper missions. New launches should add variety without fragmenting the fixture or making it harder to shop. Clear brand blocking helps shoppers find familiar products quickly, while a defined space for innovation can create standout and encourage discovery. Merchandising is equally important, as confectionery is highly responsive to visibility and placement. Over 380,000 units of Impulse Confectionery are sold daily in Ireland, highlighting the number of opportunities to sell. Retailers can maximise the opportunity by: • Placing single bars and smaller formats at checkouts, queueing areas and other impulse zones. • Creating secondary sitings close to complementary categories such as hot drinks, soft drinks, food-to-go and meal deals. 30% of all Confectionery store missions are also Food-to-go missions • Giving sharing bags a clear destination within the main confectionery fixture, supported by secondary displays for weekends, family occasions and at-home sharing. • Using highly visible displays to launch NPD, while keeping the product easy to find on the main confectionery fixture. • Linking single bars and DUO formats to immediate-consumption, top-up and foodto-go missions, with a concise core range and a manageable number of distinctive new lines. Duos and XXL Formats are delivering above-market growth of over 10.1% year to date (YTD). • Planning seasonal displays early and locating them where shoppers can easily add a treat, sharing pack or gift to a wider seasonal shop. Looking ahead, Halloween and Christmas provide particularly valuable sales opportunities across sharing formats, seasonal novelty and gifting, giving retailers new reasons to engage shoppers during one of the year’s most important trading periods. Ultimately, the strongest category performance comes from combining trusted brands, relevant innovation and excellent execution. Retailers that maintain availability on core favourites, support new launches in a clear and shopper-friendly way, and make the most of seasonal opportunities will be best placed to capture impulse purchases, increase basket spend and drive confectionery growth throughout the year. Source: NIQ Total Scantrack including Dunnes 9/8/2026
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
Forest Feast launches new chocolate freeze-dried fruit range Forest Feast, one of the UK’s fastestgrowing premium snack brands, unveils a new freeze-dried snacking range tapping into growing demand for texture-led snacking. Combining whole crisp freezedried fruit with layers of Belgian chocolate, the ambient range delivers an indulgent contrast of crunch and creaminess, ideal for on-the-go snacking or sharing. Leona McCaugherty, head of Marketing, Forest Feast, said: “Consumers are increasingly seeking snacks that offer something new, from bold flavour combinations to exciting textures, with social media accelerating discovery and trial. With 71% of consumers citing texture as a key driver of snack enjoyment*, our new freeze-dried range offers a more dynamic and sensorial snacking experience, designed to elevate indulgent snacking.” Forest Feast sources exceptional ingredients from around the world and crafts them into distinctive, premium snacks at its base in Co. Armagh, Northern Ireland. This approach to quality and innovation continues to propel the brand’s growth. McCaugherty, added: “Forest Feast is growing ahead of the category at over 58% year on year (YoY)** and this new launch demonstrates our commitment to driving category growth through innovation and continually delivering new and exciting snacking experiences for consumers.” The range combines premium ingredients, bold flavour combinations and craveable textures in a choice of two flavours: Double Chocolate Crispy Raspberries are whole freeze-dried raspberries double dipped in Belgian white and dark chocolate, combining a sharp berry tang with deep cocoa richness.
Cleeve’s builds on an iconic Irish confectionery heritage With a heritage stretching back to its establishment in Limerick in 1882, Cleeve’s is ‘one of Ireland’s most recognisable confectionery brands’. Now made in Newbridge, Co. Kildare, the brand continues to build on its long history with an expanding range that combines familiar Irish favourites with new flavour choices for today’s shoppers. The latest additions to the Cleeve’s bag range are already proving highly successful. They include Mint Iced Caramels, Mixed Fruit
Cleeve’s Irish Confectionery range
Forest Feast Double Chocolate Crispy Raspberries
Double Chocolate Crispy Strawberries
Double Chocolate Crispy Strawberries are whole freeze-dried strawberries double dipped in Belgian white and milk chocolate, delivering a crunchy centre followed by a smooth, velvety chocolate melt. The range is now available in Boots Sainsbury’s and Ocado with further retail listings across Ireland to follow. Consumers can also shop the range from www.forestfeast.com. RRP: €5 for 100g. The launch will be supported by a heavyweight media and OOH campaign, in-store media, consumer PR, sampling and influencer activity. With a £40 million (approx. €46.6 million) revenue run rate, Forest Feast is ‘one of the UK’s fastest-growing premium snack brands’, delivering over 58% YoY growth**. * Source: IN food, 2026 ** Source: Circana, 52 w/e 24 January 2026, Total UK All Outlets
Iced Caramels, Dairy Cream Fudge and Assorted Toffees, all presented in colourful, convenient sharing bags that create strong standout on shelf. The new Iced Caramel flavours were developed to complement Cleeve’s legendary Original Iced Caramels. First developed in 1926, the iconic pink and white sugar-coated caramels have remained a firm favourite with generations of Irish consumers. Mint Iced Caramels offer the familiar soft caramel centre with a refreshing mint iced sugar coating, while Mixed Fruit Iced Caramels feature a colourful assortment of lemon, orange and strawberry flavours. Together with the much-loved Original Iced Caramels, the three varieties create an instantly recognisable range with broad appeal and plenty of opportunity for incremental sales. Cleeve’s is also famously associated with traditional toffee and fudge. The new Dairy Cream Fudge delivers a rich, creamy confection, while Assorted Toffees offers a nostalgic selection of dairy cream, liquorice, rum and butter and mint toffees. Both products build naturally on the brand’s heritage while offering the convenient formats sought by modern shoppers. >>
Confectionery CATEGORY FOCUS
Cookie Cups is an ‘exciting new addition to Ireland’s confectionery category and is already creating quite a stir’. Inspired by America, perfected in Ireland and tested with admirable dedication, the indulgent new cookie range is available exclusively in selected Dunnes Stores. The idea was born from a long-standing passion project for Dublin brothers Robin and Terry Jones. Their cookie story began at home, where their mother made chocolate chip cookies rolled in Cornflakes - so popular with friends they could practically be traded like currency. Both brothers spent time living in Chicago and travelled extensively around the world, turning every trip into an opportunity to seek out the best cookies each destination had to offer. Hundreds of cookies were sampled, flavours debated, fillings investigated and textures discussed at a level of detail normally reserved for matters of national importance. After years of “research”, they finally
Cookie Cups indulgent new cookie range
Shelton – driving opportunities in confectionery In today’s competitive FMCG environment, retailers need confectionery brands that do more than fill shelf space. They need products that stand out, sell quickly, deliver attractive margins and are easy to merchandise. Shelton’s unique portfolio, supported by strong packaging and clear shopper appeal, delivers a significant contribution to category performance. Trolli brings bold, playful innovation and strong visual impact, making it particularly suited to the Impulse category and younger shoppers seeking fun, distinctive treats. Look-O-Look takes visual appeal further with creative confectionery designed to generate curiosity and encourage impulse purchases. Relkon’s innovative confectionery concepts and highly engaging product presentation, offer retailers opportunities to introduce something new and visually distinctive to their fixtures. For shoppers seeking quality and heritage, Walker’s Nonsuch Toffee provides a trusted, traditional high-quality proposition, while Cavendish & Harvey combines premium recyclable tins with an extensive range of sugar confectionery, creating opportunities across gifting, sharing and everyday treats. Zaini’s Boule D’Or range adds Italian style, heritage and family appeal, while PEZ offers a unique combination of licensed characters and collectability, providing retailers with products generating repeat sales volumes. From a retail perspective, product appeal is only part of the equation. Shelf-Ready Packaging across the Shelton ranges simplifies replenishment, improves presentation and reduces handling. Consumer packs with strong visual impact help products command attention in increasingly crowded fixtures. The Shelton portfolio provides diversity across impulse, sharing, gifting and family occasions, enabling retailers build a balanced range around different shopper missions. Shelf space is at a premium in all concluded that the cookie they were looking for did not exist, so they made it themselves. Back home in Dublin, Robin began experimenting with recipes and flavour combinations, determined to create a cookie he wished existed. Dough formulations were refined, fillings developed, textures tweaked and flavours improved. The result is Cookie Cups: premium cookies baked and served in their own pastry cups,
stores, and Shelton’s competitive pricing, healthy margins and strong rates-of-sale deliver results retailers demand from their investment. By combining recognised brands with distinctive formats, compelling packaging and broad consumer appeal, retailers can create a Shelton confectionery fixture that is easier to manage, more engaging to shop and commercially stronger-turning visibility into impulse, differentiation into purchase and shelf space into profitable sales.
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Inspired by America, perfected in Ireland, crafted for cookie lovers
Shelton confectionery portfolio
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The Cleeve’s chocolate bars are also enjoying a real moment as consumers pay closer attention to ingredients and seek out quality Irish alternatives. The 34g range comprises Macaroon, Mint Crisp and Sea Salt Caramel Crisp, offering three distinctive flavours in striking, heritage-inspired packaging. Made without palm oil and featuring an improved recipe containing 30% cocoa, the bars give retailers a strong Irish chocolate choice for the main confectionery fixture or impulse space. Macaroon combines milk chocolate with coconut pieces, Mint Crisp brings together milk chocolate and mint crisp pieces, while Sea Salt Caramel Crisp taps into the enduring popularity of salted caramel. Altogether, Cleeve’s offers retailers a colourful and highly recognisable range spanning chocolate, iced caramels, fudge and traditional toffees. Its combination of genuine Irish heritage, trusted quality, distinctive flavours and strong consumer affection gives the brand an important point of difference within a highly competitive category. Ampersand is supporting the Cleeve’s range with trade promotions and in-store point-ofsale solutions designed to build visibility, encourage trial and drive sales. Retailers interested in stocking Cleeve’s or learning more about the available promotional support should contact their Ampersand sales representative or the sales line on 01 413 0100.
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Winning the seasonal opportunity Seasonal confectionery remains a major opportunity for Irish retailers, with Halloween and Christmas providing key windows to drive footfall, impulse purchases and incremental spend. In a crowded marketplace, however, differentiation is essential-and seasonal ranges need to deliver commercially as well as visually. For Halloween, Trolli, PEZ and Relkon offer playful, innovative and highly visual products that are ideal for Impulse merchandising and seasonal displays. Strongly designed consumer packs capture attention, encourage discovery and turn browsing into additional purchases. At Christmas, Walker’s Nonsuch Toffee, Cavendish & Harvey, Zaini, Hamlet and Highland Shortbread provide distinctive options across gifting, sharing and family purchases, helping retailers create truly compelling seasonal offers. Shelf-Ready Packaging (SRP) streamlines merchandising and enhances shelf presentation. Combined with competitive pricing, attractive margins, strong visual impact and high rates-of-sale, these features help maximise returns from limited seasonal space. Shelton’s carefully curated portfolio of differentiated brands and formats therefore delivers the essentials: standout products, efficient execution, healthy margins and compelling reasons to buy-helping retailers make every seasonal fixture work harder. then deep-filled with luxurious ingredients. Made using real Irish butter, the introductory range features five tempting flavours: Milk Chocolate, Chocolate Caramel, Red Velvet, Cookies & Cream and Rocky Road. Cookie Cups contain no artificial colours or preservatives and are designed to be baked fresh in store and enjoyed warm. ‘Crafted for cookie lovers.’ RRP: €7.50 per pack of three cookies.
www.shelflife.ie | ShelfLife September 2026
54 CATEGORY FOCUS Confectionery
Hot Beverages Confectionery
Vidal new product range
Retailers can contact their Ampersand representative or call 01 413 0100 for details on the new Vidal range, promotional offers and display options.
Lily O’Briens Gift Wrapped Chocolate Selection (160g)
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Lily O’Brien’s brings new flavour to Christmas 2026
Vidal builds on Irish success with exciting new lines Following a strong response to its initial Irish launch, Vidal is expanding its range with Ampersand, introducing a host of new lines, promotional offers and in-store display solutions for Irish retailers. Ampersand is the exclusive Irish agent for Vidal, the international confectionery brand founded in Spain in 1963 and now enjoyed in more than 90 countries worldwide. Known for its colourful and creative approach to confectionery, Vidal combines fun formats, bold branding and accessible price points with strong retailer margins. Following the success of Vidal’s novelty lollies since launch, Ampersand is now extending the Irish range into novelty jellies for the first time. New additions include Snake Jelly, Burger Jelly and Monster Jelly, bringing Vidal’s trademark sense of fun to another part of the confectionery fixture. The Monster Jelly range offers a particularly strong opportunity in the run-up to Halloween, while its novelty format and eye-catching packaging give it year-round appeal. Also new is the Dipper Chew Bar Tongue Painter, a fun impulse line with a Blue Raspberry flavour that turns the tongue blue, and the new Mega Sour Mix, offering a colourful mix of sour jelly favourites in a €5 sharing tub. These additions join established Vidal lines including Rolla Belta, Rainbow and Strawberry Belts, Party Mix and the popular lollipop range, giving retailers an increasingly broad choice across impulse, novelty and sharing occasions. Ampersand is supporting the expanded range with a programme of strong promotional offers, including multi-buy mechanics across selected lines, providing attractive consumer price points alongside competitive retailer margins. Driving visibility in-store is also a key focus, with dedicated Vidal FSDUs and counter display options available to help retailers create additional display space, position the products in high-traffic areas and maximise impulse sales. With its distinctive branding, accessible price points and growing choice of formats, Vidal continues to offer Irish retailers something different within confectionery. The latest range expansion builds on the brand’s positive start in Ireland while creating new opportunities around Halloween and throughout the year.
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
For more than 30 years, Lily O’Brien’s has been creating premium chocolate experiences that combine quality ingredients with imaginative flavours inspired by some of the world’s best-loved desserts and treats. For Christmas 2026, the brand is expanding its festive range with a mix of new product launches, seasonal flavours and returning favourites. Designed to cater to a wide range of gifting and sharing occasions, the collection combines eye-catching presentation with Lily O’Brien’s signature flavour innovation. Lily O’Briens can be purchased online on www.lilyobriens.com and retailers nationwide.
New for 2026 Gift Wrapped Chocolate Selection (160g) Created with convenient gifting in mind, the Gift-Wrapped Chocolate Selection combines premium chocolates with enhanced festive presentation. The box contains 14 chocolates
across seven recipes: Death by Chocolate, Simply Chocolate, Zesty Orange, Praline Perfection, Sticky Toffee, Lemon Meringue Pie and Crispy Biscuit Crunch. For 2026, the selection has been refreshed with a new luxury gift wrap, giving the product increased stand-out and making it an ideal pick-up-and-gift option throughout the Christmas season. Christmas Desserts Collection (285g) Bringing a distinctly festive twist to Lily O’Brien’s popular dessert-inspired chocolates, the Christmas Desserts Collection combines >>
Nutriluv Jellies: Functional meets tasty When functional meets tasty, the results are not surprising. Nutriluv Jellies, launched in February 2026, have proven to have that special mix of ‘sweet treat and functional’ benefits that Irish consumers love. Irish consumers love indulgent confectionery, but the Nutriluv range captures consumers’ demand for Bett’r Snacks. The Health & Wellness segment of confectionery keeps on growing and Nutriluv is meeting consumer demand. The Nutriluv range crosses both Low Sugar (with Gummy Bears and Sweet Hearts), Vegan, (with Sour Crazy Kitties) and Bett’r Snacking for Protein, Energy and Collagen callouts. Produced in Germany, Nutriluv Jellies are backed by science, made with love and designed to meet your customers active lifestyle. In 2027, we’ll continue to launch
‘Functional meets tasty’
Nutriluv product range
new products and further strengthen our range and scope in this growing confectionery category. Commenting, Neidra Lenehan, head of sales, Rose Confectionery, said: “Having the opportunity to supply Nutriluv to the Irish market has been a fantastic experience. Feedback from consumers sampled and our retail partners has exceeded our expectations. As manufacturers of Mallows, we know how important sweet occasions are, but we also notice the change in consumer sentiment. We’ll combine our wide range of Mallows produced in Edenderry, Co. Offaly, with our Nutriluv Bett’r Snacks and Low Sugar Jellies range, to match the Irish consumers requirements”. Contact Rose Confectionery on 01-4568064 to see its brochure and how the team can help you grow your confectionery sales for 2026 and beyond.
Confectionery CATEGORY FOCUS
Confectionery
All Real brings real food to protein snacking
Sea Salted Caramels (112g) Lily O’Brien’s popular combination of smooth caramel, sea-salted pieces and milk chocolate is presented in a new festive format for Christmas 2026. Containing eight chocolates, the Sea Salted Caramels are packaged in a distinctive triangular box finished with a hanging ribbon, creating strong shelf appeal and positioning the product as an ideal token gift or stocking filler.
Returning favourites Desserts Collection (210g) A celebration of classic desserts from around the world, the Desserts Collection brings together 16 dessert-inspired chocolates in a premium assortment. Flavours include Raspberry Infusion, Key Lime Pie, Hazelnut Torte, Crème Brûlée and Lemon Posset, offering consumers a varied selection spanning fruity, rich and creamy flavour profiles. Luxury Collection (270g) A generous premium assortment showcasing Lily O’Brien’s expertise in flavour and chocolate making, the 270g Luxury Collection contains 27 chocolates across a wide range of sophisticated recipes.
Lily O’Briens Sea Salted Caramels (112g)
The selection includes Rapturous Raspberry, Zesty Lemon, Sea Salted Caramel, Gianduja, Dark and White Duet, Coffee and Almond Biscotti, Truffle Decadence, Caramelised Biscuit Bliss and Crispy Biscuit Crunch, making it a strong option for premium Christmas gifting and sharing. Petit Indulgence Collection (340g) Designed for generous festive sharing and gifting, the Petit Indulgence Collection brings together 33 milk, dark and white chocolates in a distinctive Christmas-themed box. The assortment includes Simply Chocolate, Le Crunch Chocolate, Orange Chocolate Ganache, Praline Perfection, Raspberry Cream and Sticky Toffee, offering consumers a broad variety of flavours in one premium festive format. Luxury Collection (137g) A new, smaller-format addition to the Luxury Collection range, this 137g assortment offers an accessible premium gifting option for the festive season. Featuring 14 milk and dark chocolates across four recipes, the selection includes Caramelised Biscuit Bliss, Zesty Lemon, Sea Salted Caramel and Crispy Biscuit Crunch.
All Real product range
Air Fryer
>> established favourites with new seasonal recipes for 2026. The 22-piece assortment includes Key Lime Pie, Hazelnut Torte, Crème Brûlée and Lemon Posset, alongside festive flavours Black Forest, Orange & Cranberry Panettone, Spiced Latte and Carrot Cake. The collection is presented in a recyclable box and tray.
Hot Beverages
Lily O’Brien’s Petit Indulgence Collection (340g)
Irish protein bar brand All Real Nutrition continues to build momentum as consumers increasingly look for snacks that combine great taste, convenience and meaningful nutrition. Made in Co. Kerry using Irish milk protein, All Real takes a different approach to the conventional protein bar. Its bars combine protein and fiber with natural, minimally processed ingredients, with no added sugar and no artificial sweeteners. The approach is resonating strongly with Irish shoppers. Latest EPOS data from a leading Irish grocery retailer shows All Real growing 44% year-on-year, versus 5% growth across its protein and healthier snack bar competitive set, while accounting for 61% of the set’s net growth. The colourful 50g range includes Almond & Vanilla, Peanut Butter, Chocolate Sea Salt, Cashew Cookie Dough and Chocolate Hazelnut, and is available nationwide across Ireland.
55
As protein continues to move from sports nutrition into mainstream snacking, All Real sees growing demand for products that deliver on all three: great taste, clean ingredients and nutrition consumers can understand. ‘Protein + fiber + natural.’ Made in Kerry. According to Dr. Coy’s, its chocolate range replaces conventional sugar with a lowglycaemic functional sugar and combines it with nutritionally rich 54% Belgian chocolate. The result is a product designed to offer sustained energy while providing a more considered alternative to conventional highsugar confectionery. This approach comes at a time when Bord Bia reported 28% value growth in Irish chocolate exports in 2025 and highlighting increased demand for functional chocolate and premium products, the brand noted. Dr. Coy’s has just released its new modern packaging to market. Alongside its chocolate range, Dr. Coy’s organic bouillon has become a trusted staple in Irish homes, demonstrating how health-focused innovation can successfully combine nutrition, convenience and taste. ■
Dr. Coy’s: Where health meets indulgence Irish consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of what they put into their shopping baskets, with health, nutrition and value for money playing a growing role in everyday food choices. Recent research shows almost half of Irish consumers plan to reduce their intake of processed or high-sugar foods, while demand for health and wellness products continues to rise. Against this backdrop, Irish health food company Dr. Coy’s is bringing a distinctive proposition to the confectionery and health food categories. Founded to translate nutritional science into innovative food products, the company draws on Dr. Coy’s scientific discoveries at the German Cancer Research Centre.
Dr. Coy’s Coconut, Mint, Orange, Raspberry, Vanilla and Hazelnut Belgian chocolate range
www.shelflife.ie | ShelfLife September 2026
56 NOFFLA NEWS
www.noffla.ie
The Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2026 The National Off-Licence Association (NOffLA) is delighted to reveal details of The Irish Wine Show Star Awards
Blind Tasting - Shortlisted Star Award Finalists 2026-2027 The blind tasting to select the Star Award Finalists took place on Wednesday, 8 July 2026. Thank you to all who participated on the day.
Points system Points were awarded on the basis of appearance, smell, taste and value for money criteria, and the winning were selected as the best wines from key suppliers across a
number of price categories. Each of the winning wines will be sold in NOffLA member outlets across the country and will be recognisable by distinctive award symbols on each bottle. In the pre-Christmas period, NOffLA members will promote the Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2026-2027 Collection as ideal Christmas gifts, in a variety of special gift packs.
The blind tasting took place on Wednesday, 8 July 2026
The morning tasting was conducted by the following: Ann Moran
Gibneys of Malahide
Cathal McHugh
McHughs Kilbarrack & Malahide Road
Phyllis Monaghan
The Coach House Ballinteer
Amy Hemphill
Wine Consultant
Caolann Haughton
McHughs Kilbarrack
Nicolas Coitino
Blackrock Cellar
Judith Boyle
Boyles Off-Licence, Kildare
Pat Carroll
Wine Consultant
David Lonergan
The Vintry
Evelyn Jones
The Vintry
The press judges in the afternoon were: Maureen O’Hara
Wine Consultant & Premier Wine Training
John Wilson
Irish Times
Jean Smullen
Wine Consultant Prudence Magazine & Newstalk 106
Leslie Williams
The Examiner
Cathal McHugh of McHughs Kilbarrack and Malahide Road addressing the other judges
NOffLA contacts If you have any queries regarding NOffLA membership or services, please contact us at Block D, Unit 6, Nutgrove Office Park, Rathfarnham, Dublin 14, by telephone on 01 296 2326 or by email at info@noffla.ie. The NOffLA website can be found at www.noffla.ie.
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
NOFFLA NEWS
57
www.noffla.ie
Finalists The Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2026-2027
WINES SHORTLISTED FOR A CATEGORY GOLD, SILVER OR BRONZE MEDAL – IN RANDOM ORDER CATEGORY
Old World White under €12
Old World White under €15
Old World White under €20
Old World White under €30
Old World Red under €12
Old World Red under €15
Old World Red under €20
Old World Red under €30
New World White under €12
New World White under €15
New World White under €20
New World White under €30
New World Red under €12
New World Red under €15
New World Red under €20
New World Red under €30
WINE NAME
VINTAGE REGION
Atlantique Sauvignon Blanc
2024
West Coast
COUNTRY COMPANY France
Coman's Beverages Limited
Portia 6
2025
Lisboa
Portugal
Coman's Beverages Limited
Blanco Laseca
2025
Rueda
Spain
Cassidy Wines
Bienbebido Come Pulpo y Bebe Vino
2025
Rioja
Spain
Findlater & Co
Bendico Grillo
2025
Sicily
Italy
Mackenway Wines
El Coto Verdejo
2025
Rioja
Spain
Mackenway Wines
Cantina di Monteforte, Soave Classico Superiore, 'Vigneto Montegrande'
2024
Veneto
Italy
Liberty Wines Ltd.
Matsu 'La Moza' Toro Blanco
2025
Toro
Spain
Findlater & Co
Novellum Chardonnay
2025
Roussillon
France
Mackenway Wines
Grand Ardèche Chardonnay IGP, Louis Latour
2024
Ardèche
France
Febvre Wines
Conde Valdemar Tempranillo Blanco DOCa Rioja
2025
Rioja
Spain
Febvre Wines
Domaines Des Deux Valleés Anjou Blanc Clos De La Casse
2024
Loire Valley
France
Findlater & Co
Atlantique Cabernet Merlot
2024
West Coast
France
Coman's Beverages Limited
Paparuda Pinot Noir
2025
Cramele Recas
Romania
Febvre Wines
Perdido Cabernet Sauvignon
2024
Navarra
Spain
Dalcassian Wines and Spirits Ltd
Principe De Viana - La Parra Soñada – Syrah
2024
Navarra
Spain
Dalcassian Wines and Spirits Ltd
Bendico Nero d'Avola
2024
Sicily
Italy
Mackenway Wines
Poderi dal Nespoli Sangiovese Romagna DOC Organic
2023
Romagna
Italy
Febvre Wines
CUNE Reserva
2020
Rioja
Spain
Santa Rita Estates
Boogie Woogie
2025
Languedoc
France
Tindal Wine Merchants
Dogajolo Rosso
2023
Tuscany
Italy
Mackenway Wines
Weingut Pflüger Pinot Noir Vom Bundsantstein
2024
PfLaz
Germany
Findlater & Co
Bodegas Luis Canas, Rioja Reserva
2019
Rioja Alavesa
Spain
Tindal Wine Merchants
Petra Hebo
2025
Tuscany
Italy
Cassidy Wines DAC
Las Moras Pinot Grigio
2024
San Juan
Argentina
Coman's Beverages Limited
Las Moras Sauvignon Blanc
2025
San Juan
Argentina
Coman's Beverages Limited
Santa Carolina Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc
2026
Central Valley
Chile
Dalcassian Wines and Spirits Ltd
Simonsig Chenin Blanc
2025
Stellonbosch
South Africa
Coman's Beverages Limited
Wild Garden Chenin Blanc
2025
Swartzland
South Africa
Mackenway Wines
Nau Mai Sauvignon Blanc
2025
Marlborough
New Zealand Cassidy Wines DAC
Peter Lehmann Hill & Valley Chardonnay Eden Valley
2023
Eden Valley
Australia
Awetere, Singlevineyard, Sauvignon Blanc
2025
Marlborough
New Zealand Mackenway Wines
Pisano Cisplatino Albariño, Canelones
2024
Canelones
Uruguay
Tohu Albarino
2025
Nelson
New Zealand Mackenway Wines
Febvre Wines Febvre Wines
Peter Lehmann Masters Wigan Riesling Eden Valley
2018
Eden Valley
Australia
Trinity Hill Hawkes Bay Chardonnay
2024
Hawkes Bay
New Zealand Liberty Wines Ltd.
Febvre Wines
Santa Carolina Cellar Selection Cabernet Sauvignon
2025
Central Valley
Chile
Dalcassian Wines and Spirits Ltd
Finca Las Moras Malbec
2024
Cuyo
Argentina
Coman's Beverages Limited
Barramundi Shiraz
2024
Murray Darling
Australila
Coman's Beverages Limited
Finca Las Moras Reserva Malbec
2023
Cuyo
Argentina
Coman's Beverages Limited
Callia Malbec
2024
San Juan
Argentina
Mackenway Wines
Beyond Shadows
NV
Mendoza
Argentina
Santa Rita Estates
Altos las Hormigas 'Colonia las Liebres' Bonarda Clasica
2025
Mendoza
Argentina
Liberty Wines Ltd.
Kaiken Terroir Series, Cabernet Sauvignon/Malbec/Petit Verdot
2023
Mendoza
Argentina
Liberty Wines Ltd.
Osado Malbec
2023
Mendoza
Argentina
Mackenway Wines
Dandelion Vineyards, 'Pride of the Fleurieu' Cabernet Sauvignon
2023
South Australia
Australia
Liberty Wines Ltd.
Baron Philippe de Rothschild Escudo Rojo Gran Reserva Pinot Noir
2023
Casablanca Valley
Chile
Cassidy Wines DAC
Dona Paula El Alto Single Vineyard DOC
2024
Lujan de Coyu
Argentina
Santa Rita Estates
Santa Rita Limited Release
2025
Mvalle Central (Maipo)
Chile
Santa Rita Estates
Astros, 'La Belle Vie Rosé'
2025
Provence
France
Tindal Wine Merchants
Marquis de Goulaine Cremant de Loire
NV
Loire Valley
France
Cassidy Wines DAC
Villa Conchi 'Cava' Brut N.V
NV
Catalonia
Spain
Tindal Wine Merchants Findlater & Co.
WINES SHORTLISTED FOR A CATEGORY GOLD MEDAL – IN RANDOM ORDER
Rose under €20 Sparkling under €30 Champagne under €80 Orange Wine under €30 Non-alcoholic Red under €15 Non-alcoholic White under €15
Alfred Gratien Brut NV
NV
Champagne
France
Champagne Taittinger Prestige Rosé
NV
Champagne
France
Febvre Wines
Tomás Cusiné 'Pell de Llop', Macabeu Skin Contact
2024
Catalonia
Spain
Tindal Wine Merchants
Sicily
Italy
Cassidy Wines DAC
Santa Tresa Insieme Orange Bianco Terre Siciliane IGP
2025
Chavin Zéro Cabernet Merlot Vin de France
2025
Villa Noria 'Levin' Pinot Noir, (Organic /Sulphite Free)
NV
Villa Noria 'Levin', Chardonnay, (Organic /Sulphite Free) Santa Rita 120 Sauvignon Blanc
Non-alcoholic Sparkling under €15 Chavin Zéro Sparkling Blanc de Blancs Vin de France
Villa Norin 'Levin' Blanc de Blanc, (Organic /Sulphite Free)
France
Febvre Wines
Languedoc
France
Tindal Wine Merchants
NV
Languedoc
France
Tindal Wine Merchants
NV
Curico
Chile
Santa Rita Estates
France
Febvre Wines
France
Tindal Wine Merchants
2025 NV
Languedoc
www.noffla.ie www.shelflife.ie | ShelfLife September 2026
58 NOFFLA NEWS
www.noffla.ie
A first time for everything Catherine Lyons of Mitchell & Son talks to ShelfLife about what winning the First Time Entrant at the NOffLA Irish Wine Show Star Awards means to her and the team The National Off-Licence Association (NOffLA) will soon reveal the winners of the Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2026. Reflecting on last year the association that represents independent specialist off-licences across Ireland awarded its annual Irish Wine Show Star Awards to 55 wines this evening. The 24th event was hosted on Monday 29 September 2025 at the Hilton Charlemont in Dublin. Last year’s winner of the First Time Entrant at the NOffLA Irish Wine Show Star Awards 2025 Catherine Lyons of Mitchell & Son looks back on how important this prestigious and independent recognition means to the industry.
Q: What prompted Mitchell & Son to enter the Irish Wine Show Star Awards for the first time, and what did winning the First Time Entrant award mean to you and the team? A: Mitchells always enters their shops into the Irish Wine Show Star Awards, and we were delighted to have the opportunity to enter the new store into the First Time Entrant award. It’s a great way to raise awareness of the new location.
Q: Looking back on that first entry, what do you think made your submission stand out to the judges? A: I think the building itself is spectacular, it has a real wow factor, and people always respond very positively to the space, before they even start looking at the wine!
Q: Was there a particular moment when you realised the award could have a real impact on Mitchell & Son’s wine business?
(L-R) Richard Moriarty, Findlater & Co., Catherine Lyons and Robert Mitchell, Mitchell & Son, The Vaults
Q: Since winning last year, have you noticed any change in how customers or retailers respond to the wines you represent?
A: It’s always good to have positive news to share and winning anything always gives you a little thrill.
A: Mitchells has been around a long time, so trust is important. We have a lot of trust in our suppliers, and our customers have a lot of trust in us.
Q: What did winning the award teach you about the Irish wine market and what consumers are looking for when choosing a bottle?
Q: The awards put a strong emphasis on value for money as well as quality. How do you balance finding exciting, distinctive wines with keeping them accessible to Irish consumers?
A: I think we can’t over-estimate the value of the personal interaction when choosing a bottle of wine. People are generally open to trying something they haven’t tried before if they have even just a little bit of background information from someone they trust. Listening to the customer is important.
A: We have a great team who are constantly on the lookout for new and exciting wines which give good value for money. Whether they are new wines from the old world or some of the more recent exciting new world wines, we never get bored searching for new wines to offer.
Q: How important is independent recognition, such as the Irish Wine Show Star Awards, when you’re introducing wines or producers to Irish consumers?
Q: Having gone from being a first-time entrant to an award winner, what are you hoping to achieve with Mitchell & Son at this year’s awards — and how has last year’s success influenced your ambitions?
A: I think it adds a level of reassurance when customers are choosing where to spend their money.
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
A: Onwards and upwards I say! ■
OFF-TRADE NEWS 59 Kinnegar Day Skipper Pilsner
Kinnegar Brewing releases Day Skipper Pilsner Kinnegar Brewing announces the release of Day Skipper Pilsner, a new addition to the Donegal brewery’s iconic core range of beers. Available in 500ML bottle and 440ML can, Day Skipper lines up alongside established bestsellers Scraggy Bay, Big Bunny, Rustbucket, and Jackrabbit Ginger. “We’re really excited about Day Skipper,” said Rick LeVert, Kinnegar’s founder and MD. “This is the beer I’ve always dreamed of making. People ask me how I got into brewing. The simple answer is by drinking pilsner in Germany.” Many consider the pilsner to be
the queen of all beer styles. “It’s all about balance,” said Matt Davies, Kinnegar’s head brewer and the developer of Day Skipper. “With a northern German Pilsner style you want a lovely little snap of floral hops. Not too much, just a snap to complement the bready malt character.” Day Skipper delivers balance. Pale straw in colour, it pours with a fluffy head of white foam. Floral aromas from German noble hop varieties overlay a flavour that is clean, crisp, refreshing and highly drinkable. Speaking from experience distributing leading brands such as Veltins and Bitburger, Wally Kearon
of Grand Cru Beers emphasises the relevance of German pilsners. “This is a hugely popular beer style and it’s important for Grand Cru to be able to offer a pilsner from an Irish brewery with confidence, knowing that the quality can match the German original.” The name, Day Skipper, is a selfdeprecating nod to the challenges the team went through while developing the beer. “Despite its apparent simplicity,” Davies added. “A pilsner is very unforgiving. Every mistake you make is right there on the nose.” LeVert noted: “It reminded me of learning to sail. There were so many new things to balance: the boat, the
tides, the wind.” According to Davis, the brewery has taken a very traditional approach to the beer. “We weren’t interested in making a pils with an Irish twist; we wanted to make a pils that matches the original,” he concluded.
Yankee Clipper lands in Lidl Limerick Spirits Co. has recently announced that its Yankee Clipper Coffee Liqueur is now available in Lidl stores across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, as part of Lidl’s Kickstart programme. The nationwide launch represents a ‘major milestone’ for the independent, family-owned Irish spirits company and will introduce Yankee Clipper to customers throughout the island of Ireland. At the heart of Yankee Clipper is Limerick Whiskey, the company’s own grain-to-glass Irish whiskey, produced using locally grown Irish barley and developed as part of Limerick Spirits Co.’s mission to revive the distilling heritage of the region. From grain to glass, the whiskey begins with barley grown locally in Ireland before being malted, distilled and matured as part of the company’s long-term programme to create a new generation of whiskey with a strong connection to Co. Limerick. Yankee Clipper Coffee Liqueur brings that whiskey together with richly roasted coffee in a modern reimagining of one of Ireland’s most famous drinks: the Irish Coffee, first created at Foynes in Co. Limerick during the golden age of transatlantic aviation. The 20% ABV liqueur delivers rich roasted coffee character, gentle sweetness and the warmth and complexity of Irish whiskey. It can be enjoyed simply over ice or used to create an Espresso Martini, Baby Stout or Irish Coffee, while also working particularly well poured over ice cream or incorporated into desserts such as tiramisu. Nicholas Ryan, founder of Limerick Spirits Co., said: “Getting Yankee Clipper onto shelves across Lidl stores in Ireland and Northern Ireland is a huge moment for us as a small independent Irish producer. “What makes this particularly special for us is that Yankee Clipper is built around our own Limerick Whiskey. “We have been developing our whiskey from grain to glass using locally grown barley, with the ambition of putting Limerick back on the Irish whiskey map. “The story behind Yankee Clipper brings together two important parts of that heritage. “Foynes was where coffee and Irish whiskey famously met with the creation of Irish Coffee, and we are now using our own Limerick Whiskey to reimagine that original marriage in a contemporary Irish coffee liqueur.” Yankee Clipper Coffee Liqueur is now available in Lidl stores throughout the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, while stocks last. Thomond Gate Yankee Clipper
Jameson Distiller’s Batch boasts smoothness and complexity Jameson Distiller’s Batch is an award-winning whiskey crafted by its Master Distiller and carefully aged in five different types of oak casks in Midleton Distillery. The result is a whiskey that is equal parts smoothness and complexity.
Jameson Distiller’s Batch
Heineken named as 2027 Ryder Cup official beer, cider, and stout supplier Heineken Ireland has signed an agreement with Ryder Cup Europe to become the official beer, cider and stout supplier to the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor, with its portfolio available across bars, the spectator village, hospitality areas Max Hamilton, Ryder Cup and premium experience suites. Europe’s executive commercial Brands served during the event director and Sharon Walsh, managing director, Heineken will include Heineken, Heineken 0.0%, Birra Moretti, Murphy’s, Beamish, Orchard Thieves and Served Ready To Drink (RTD) products. The agreement with Heineken further strengthens the Ryder Cup’s association with international brands which have a strong presence across Ireland, including the west of Ireland. Heineken’s 170-year-old brewery is located in Co. Cork, just under an hour and half away from Adare Manor. “It is a privilege for Heineken Ireland to partner with the Ryder Cup, an iconic global sporting event coming to Adare Manor in 2027,” said Sharon Walsh, managing director, Heineken Ireland. “As a business rooted in Ireland, with a portfolio of some of the country’s most loved beer, cider and stout brands, we are proud to play our part in welcoming spectators from more than 80 countries.” The 2027 Ryder Cup will take place from 17 – 19 September 2027. ■
www.shelflife.ie | ShelfLife September 2026
60 MARKET MOVERS
Dr. Oetker
Dr. Oetker Ireland prepares for another strong seasonal baking period Dr. Oetker Ireland is preparing to bring some extra seasonal excitement to the home baking category, with six products launching for Halloween and a further seven products for Christmas. Seasonal baking is an important part of the category, giving shoppers fresh inspiration and making it easy to turn everyday recipes into something a little more special. From spooky Halloween bakes to festive Christmas creations, Dr. Oetker’s seasonal range is designed to help bakers of all abilities add a simple seasonal touch to their favourite recipes. Building on several years of successful seasonal launches, this year’s range brings together a selection of products designed to inspire creativity and make seasonal baking easy and enjoyable. Whether shoppers are decorating cupcakes, cookies or creating a centrepiece bake, the range offers simple ways to add a little more fun and seasonal flair to their baking. To support the launch, dedicated seasonal FloorStanding Display Units (FSDUs) will be rolled out across more than 800 stores nationwide, including Dunnes Stores, Tesco, SuperValu and Lidl, helping shoppers easily discover the ranges in-store. The nationwide activation will give the ranges strong visibility during two key seasonal periods, helping retailers capture shopper interest while making it easier for consumers to find find inspiration and everything they need for their Halloween and Christmas baking.
(L-R) Kaylee Norris, brand manager and Shanelle Halpin, national account manager, Dr. Oetker Ireland
Dr. Oetker product range
Müller & MyProtein
Nordic Spirit
Together its different: Müller and MyProtein champion teamwork
Nordic Spirit expands flavour portfolio with two new sensorial flavours
Müller and MyProtein have launched ‘Together Hits Different’, a new integrated campaign celebrating their partnership and shared mission to make protein more accessible, playful and enjoyable. Challenging the traditional view of protein as a functional, solo pursuit, the campaign puts connection at its heart, showing how taste, nutrition and people can come together to create something better. The latest innovation in the Müller x MyProtein range is Mixers. Each pot contains 15g of protein, combining Müller protein yogurt with crunchy biscuit inclusions for a more indulgent way to enjoy protein without compromising on taste. Mixers are available in three flavours: Strawberries & Cream, Banana Split with Chocolate Crunch, and Cookies & Cream with Cookie Crunch. They join the existing range of Mousse, Complete Meal Drinks, Puddings, UHT Protein Shakes and Crunch Yogurts, available nationwide at Dunnes Stores, SuperValu, Tesco, Spar and Centra.
Nordic Spirit is expanding its flavour portfolio with Jalapeño Lime and Chilli Melon, two bold new sensorial flavours that respond to growing consumer demand for greater variety, flavour exploration and innovation within the nicotine pouch category. Combining freshness, sweetness and subtle warmth, the new flavours deliver layered and distinctive taste experiences. Jalapeño Lime pairs vibrant citrus notes with a gentle jalapeño-inspired kick, while Chilli Melon blends juicy melon sweetness with a smooth warming sensation. Available in Strong and X-Strong, the new additions broaden the Nordic Spirit flavour portfolio, giving retailers an opportunity to meet growing demand for flavour variety and exploration while offering adult nicotine pouch users more adventurous flavour options. Stock Jalapeño Lime and Chilli Melon today to expand flavour choice within your nicotine pouch range.
Müller and MyProtein Mixers Strawberries & Cream with Vanilla Biscuits
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
Nordic Spirit Jalapeño Lime and Chilli Melon
MARKET MOVERS
Cuisine de France
Mevgal
Cuisine de France launches new Protein Demi Baguette
MEVGAL: Bringing the taste of Greece to Ireland
Cuisine de France has launched a new Protein Demi Baguette which is high in protein, making it a great option for health-conscious consumers. It has all the characteristics of a standard French bread, but with 15.5g of plantbased protein. From an operational point of view the baking time remains the same as its existing standard Demi Baguette at five minutes. Cuisine de France Protein Demi Baguette
Banam
Saba founder Paul Cadden launches the world’s first 100% banana water Twenty years after opening Saba and bringing contemporary Thai food to Dublin, entrepreneur Paul Cadden is introducing his latest discovery from Thailand: Banam, the world’s first 100% banana water. Launching in Ireland this autumn, Banam is made from Thai heirloom bananas using a proprietary enzyme-based process that gently releases the naturally occurring water from the fruit. Available in three flavours — Original Banana, Banana Strawberry and Banana Blueberry — each 250ml can contains just 37 calories, with no caffeine, artificial colours or flavours, preservatives or added water. Commenting, Cadden, said: “Consumers increasingly want simpler ingredients and functional benefits without compromising on taste. We believe Banam can create an entirely new drinks category.” Banam naturally contains nutrients found in bananas, including magnesium, manganese and vitamins A and B6, alongside naturally occurring electrolytes. The name combines banana with naam, the Thai word for water, reflecting the brand’s Thai origins. Production also places a strong emphasis on sustainability and reducing waste. Launching through selected retailers nationwide, Ireland will be the first step in Banam’s ambition to build an Irish-owned international beverage brand. It will be distributed by Simply Wild, Allegro and Odaios Foods. It is initially launching nationwide in BWG, Tesco and Dunnes in October. Ireland will be the first step in Banam’s ambition to build an Irishowned international beverage brand. ‘100% bananas. Nothing else. No monkey business.’ ‘Life’s better when you go bananas.’ drinkbanam.com | @drinkbanam.
Banam Banana Strawberry, Original Banana and Banana Blueberry flavours
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Authentic Greek yoghurt, made with generations of expertise. Mevgal, ‘one of Greece’s leading dairy brands’, has officially launched in Ireland, bringing its authentic Greek yoghurt to shoppers across the country. With more than 70 years of dairy expertise behind the brand, Mevgal combines traditional Greek heritage with high-quality ingredients to create deliciously creamy yoghurt with an unmistakably authentic taste. The Irish launch marks an ‘exciting new chapter’ for Mevgal, with the brand now available in Tesco, Dunnes Stores and selected SuperValu stores nationwide. This gives Irish consumers the opportunity to discover a Greek yoghurt brand with deep roots and a strong reputation in its home market. As Greek yoghurt continues to be a popular and versatile choice for Irish shoppers, Mevgal offers a’ compelling addition to the chilled dairy category’. Its creamy texture and rich taste make it ideal for breakfast, snacking and cooking, while its Greek provenance gives shoppers something new to discover. From Greece to Ireland, Mevgal is ‘bringing authentic Greek yoghurt to a new audience’. Mevgal. Authentic Greek taste, now in Ireland. Mevgal Greek Yoghurt range
Takis
Takis re-launches its Zombie -themed snack Takis has brought back its Zombie inspired snacks. With its signature Habanero Chilli, Cucumber & Lime combination, the limited edition variant taps into strong consumer demand for intense flavours and retailer appetite for early, high impact Halloween activation. With an intense burst of heat, balanced by a crisp cucumber and refreshing lime finish, Takis Zombie taps directly into these behaviours and consumer research showing seven in 10 would purchase for TV or movie moments* and two in three shoppers saying it’s unlike anything else on the shelf**. According to the brand its 2026 return is supported by a full seasonal execution plan including horror movie night partnerships and themed creator content, while October will see tactical party sampling, social challenges and spooky secondary displays to maximise peak season visibility. In store theatre will play a major role given that 44% of shoppers say attractive displays make them more likely to buy Halloween products***, so Takis Zombie will be supported by seasonal bays, FSDUs, clip strips and header cards designed to create standout moments across convenience and grocery. Takis Zombie is currently available in 55g PMP, 100g and 180g formats. ‘The Halloween hit is officially back – and ready to rise again’. ■ *UK Consumer Research January 2025, **VYPR Consumer Research April 2025 ***VYPR Survey, July 2026
Takis Zombie
www.shelflife.ie | ShelfLife September 2026
62 INTERVIEW
20
QUICK QUESTIONS WITH
REBECCA THOMSON, group head of Sustainability, Kepak Group. Rebecca Thomson is group head of Sustainability at Kepak Group, which is one of Ireland’s leading meat producers with 15 manufacturing plants in Ireland and the UK. She is an experienced sustainability professional with a strong track record in the agriculture and food and beverage sectors. Thomson holds a BSc in Agriculture, Conservation and Sustainable Management and an MSc in Agri-bioscience from the National University of Ireland, Galway. Her academic background, combined with extensive industry experience, underpins her expertise in driving sustainable practices across the food value chain. 1. Best series you recently watched on a streaming platform? Clarkson’s Farm - it’s funny, honest and does a great job of highlighting the realities of modern farming.
Rebecca Thomson, group head of Sustainability, Kepak Group
2. Best place for coffee? Coffee drop on Shantalla Road, Beaumont, Dublin 9. 3. Top movie recommendation? Babe – It’s a lovely feel-good film with plenty of humour, but it also has a deeper message about kindness, animal welfare and understanding animal behaviour. As someone with a connection to farming, I like how it captures the warmth and character of life on a farm. 4. Top book recommendation? Rooted by Sarah Langford, a brilliant insight into farming, food production and rural life. 5. Which social media platform do you use most? Instagram. 6. Favourite influencer/content creator if you have one? I don’t really follow influencers, but I enjoy content from farmers and food producers who share the realities of life on the land. 7. Best advert on TV? The John Lewis Christmas adverts – they always tell a great story. 8. Worst advert on TV? Any advert that promotes unnecessary waste or overconsumption. 9. Favourite grocery shop? Coming from Galway and living in Dublin I have a wide choice of top picks from farm shops to local butchers; I can rely on Tesco and Supervalu too. I always go for the one’s which champion local farmers and clearly showcase where its food comes from. 10. If you had to live in another country, where would you choose? Canada - for its stunning landscapes and outdoor lifestyle. 11. Greatest achievement to date? Being part of the regenerative agriculture journey at Kepak and helping create lasting change is something I’m really proud of. 12. Do you prefer working from home or in the office/on-site? A mix of both – working from home with my dog Rosie, but nothing beats spending time on farms or at our production sites.
ShelfLife September 2026 | www.shelflife.ie
13. Best piece of advice you ever received? Leave things better than when you found them – a principle that applies to farming, business and life. 14. Biggest fear? Heights. I’m always drawn to the view, but I’m much happier appreciating it with solid ground beneath my feet. 15. City or beach break? Beach break – preferably somewhere with great walks, scenery and good food. 16. Top restaurant recommendation? Dela Restaurant Galway or anywhere that celebrates seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and supports local producers. 17. Who is the last artist/group you saw live? Coldplay. 18. Apart from your own, what brand do you admire most? Patagonia – for consistently demonstrating that business growth and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand. 19. Best customer service you ever received? Working with farmers and rural businesses who take genuine pride in what they produce and always go the extra mile. 20. What’s the last compliment you received? That I can make complex sustainability challenges practical and relatable. ■
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