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Retail News|July / August 2026|www.retailnews.ie|1
Contents News
Real insights into the future of FMCG WELCOME to the latest edition of Retail News, your premier source for the latest insights, trends and innovations in the retail industry. Inside this jam-packed double issue, we report on the results of the Irish Agri-Food Regulator’s second annual supplier survey (Page 16), with lessons for all actors in the Irish food and drink supply chain. Louise Cassidy has been Aldi Marketing Director since January 2024. She talks us through her love of the fast-paced FMCG market and the thinking behind the retailer’s high profile brand strategy, ‘It’s Not Complicated’ (Page 22). Jean Smullen reveals Ireland’s top-selling wine brands (Page 30), while we also delve into the do’s and don’ts of event management for the grocery trade (Page 41). We unveil the big winners in the 2026 Worldpanel by Numerator Brand Footprint, ranking the most chosen FMCG brands in Ireland (Page 58). Meanwhile, the recent ECR Ireland Leaders Forum offered some fascinating insights into key topics that will affect the FMCG sector over the coming months and years, with particular emphasis on how increasing use of GLP-1 drugs is set to shake up how consumers shop and what they buy (Page 62). Brian Clark Advertising & Marketing Director Retail News
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Retailers demand action in advance of Budget 2027.
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Tesco open new superstore in Tyrrelstown
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Fuel drive-offs a growing threat: CSNA
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Warm weather and summer spending lift Irish grocery sales by 4.8%; Repak Resource Awards open for entries.
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FSAI issues guidance on new food regulations; Lidl promote Irish beef across Europe.
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National Lottery launches new and enhanced retail compliance campaign; New Director General at RGDATA. Enterprise Ireland Food Innovation Summit returns to Croke Park; New manufacturing report highlights challenges and opportunities.
14 Cover Story: AG Barr
AG Barr are investing significant resources into Ireland, with a strengthened local leadership team, continued brand support, and an innovative portfolio set to shake up the Irish drinks category.
Regulator Supplier Survey
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Results from the second Agri-Food Regulator Supplier Survey were broadly positive, but there are lessons to learn for buyers and suppliers in the FMCG business.
28 On the Vine: Pure Island
Pure Island is a new premium, sustainable Marlborough wine brand, launching exclusively in Dunnes Stores.
30 Ireland’s Top Wines
Jean Smullen profiles Ireland’s top selling wine brands.
41 Event Management
What to do when planning a business event, conference or product launch in Ireland targeted at an FMCG audience. We profile some of the best venues available, and hear from top event organisers, Hotel Solutions DMC.
58 Worldpanel by Numerator
Brand Footprint
Worldpanel by Numerator’s 2026 Brand Footprint reveals how Irish shoppers are testing the brands they trust most.
62 ECR Ireland The recent ECR Ireland Leaders Forum focused on the changing face of the FMCG market, with increasing use of GLP-1 drugs set to shake up how consumers shop and what they buy.
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62 Employment Law
22 Retail News
Interview
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Louise Cassidy, Marketing Director, Aldi Ireland, explains
A practical overview of absence management for retail employers in Ireland.
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Retailers can be part of Ireland’s EV charging rollout through strategic partnership with ePower.
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16 Agri-Food
Retail News
why Aldi’s latest brand strategy, ‘It’s Not Complicated’, is far more than a marketing campaign.
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Industry News
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Retail Ireland: Monthly Update
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Drinks News
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Back-to-School
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Forecourt Focus: News
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What’s New
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Retailers demand action Budget 2027
RETAILERS are calling for the publication and “urgent delivery” of the Retail Crime Strategy in advance of the next budget. The crime strategy was announced in January 2025. Late last year, Alan Dillon TD, Minister of State Employment, Small Businesses and Retail & Circular Economy, said the Government was aiming to publish the strategy in the first three months of 2026. However, it has yet to see the light of day. A spokesperson for Musgrave told Retail News: “Budget 2027 should support the immediate implementation of the Government's Retail Crime Strategy, with increased Garda resources and targeted supports for retailers investing in crime prevention measures.” Retail representative groups expressed
Tara Buckley, Director General, RGDATA.
their frustration about the non-appearance of the report. “Nearly two years later and we still don't have the crime strategy published,” remarked Tara Buckley, Director General, RGDATA. The publication of the report, explained Arnold Dillon, Director of Retail Ireland, is contingent on “budgetary funds being delivered to increase frontline Garda visibility presence. Gardaí also require money to improve intelligence and advance data sharing. SMEs need grants too for security provisions.” CSNA is also looking for “speedy implementation of the crime strategy.” This is not the only ticking clock for retailers in the run up to Budget 2027. The Cost of Business Advisory Forum Report is due to be published in late July. In order to be effective, its proposals will need to be incorporated into Budget 2027. If this fails to happen “then the commitments in the Programme for Government on business costs and the comments of the Taoiseach and senior ministers will be counted as aspirational and worthless,” RGDATA stated in its pre-budget submission. “Put your money where your mouth is,” added Tara Buckley. “Make sure recommendations that require budgetary intervention are included.” Musgrave, like most retailers, want the Budget to focus on business costs. “Independent retailers, including our SuperValu and Centra retail partners, are under unprecedented pressure from rising labour costs, high energy prices, growing regulatory requirements, and persistent retail crime,” said their spokesperson. “These family-owned businesses are at the heart of communities across Ireland, creating local jobs and investing in the towns and villages they serve, yet many are grappling with a permanent and structural increase in the cost of doing business.” Since 2021, the National Minimum Wage has increased by nearly €3.95 per hour. RGDATA wants to see no change in the minimum wage and a targeted reduction in the employer PRSI rate for small businesses to 7.5% (from 9%/9.15%) for weekly earnings up to €552, and 9% (from 11.25%/11.40%) for weekly earnings over €552.
Retail Ireland, in their submission, requested a postponement of planned PRSI increases and alignment between PRSI thresholds and wage levels. Rising energy and utility costs is another bugbear. Retail Ireland are calling for the preparation of emergency energy supports, “including a €50 million framework, to respond rapidly to further price shocks”,
Arnold Dillon, Director of Retail Ireland. the reduction of policy-related costs on electricity, and an extension of the Diesel Rebate Scheme to assist the sector’s logistics and distribution channels. RGDATA requested the renewal of the Energy Support Scheme and a reassessment of monthly “Use of System charges” imposed by energy and utility companies. “These costs can count for a significant proportion of a retailer’s energy bill,” said Buckley. “Because they are fixed charges, there is nothing that the SME can do to reduce this overhead.” Musgrave want to see Government “ease the growing regulatory and administrative burdens facing SMEs”. From Retail Ireland’s perspective, this might be achieved by increasing the Small Benefits Exemption to €2,000, while RGDATA want the Government to reduce the cost of regulatory burdens on businesses by 30%, “in the areas of packaging, recycling, water, wastewater and for certain categories of goods.” The National Off-Licence Association
Vincent Jennings, CEO of CSNA.
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in advance of (NOffLA) has particular budgetary requirements. Ireland continues to have one of the highest excise burdens on alcohol in Europe, “placing independent off-licences and the wider drinks sector at a competitive disadvantage, while adding to the significant cost pressures already facing businesses,” Cathal McHugh, Chairman of NOffLA, told Retail News. The association is calling for a 10% reduction in
Cathal McHugh, Chair, NOffLA. alcohol excise duty. “NOffLA also believes the introduction of Minimum Unit Pricing has fundamentally changed the policy landscape. With MUP now established as a targeted public health measure… the association believes Ireland’s exceptionally high excise rates are no longer justified on public health grounds,” said McHugh. “Budget 2027 presents an opportunity for the Government to support the competitiveness and long-term sustainability of the drinks sector, while maintaining strong public health protections through the existing MUP framework.” The cost of insurance is not a matter that is directly addressed in budgets, but Vincent Jennings, CEO of CSNA, believes additional funding might be offered to the Injuries Resolution Board to alleviate pains. In personal injury claims for liability, the greatest expense is legal fees, he explains: “The bulk of the cost is not compensating the injury. It is paying the people who process the injury. We've built a system which rewards the legal practice rather than the people who have been injured.” More funding for the Injuries Resolution Board would bolster their decision-making processes, thus taking the spotlight away from lawyers.
Budgetary measures might also combat counterfeit and smuggled tobacco in Ireland, added the CSNA chief. Revenue’s Illegal Tobacco Product Research Surveys 2025 found that 28% of cigarette packs held by smokers surveyed are classified as illegal; 37% of rollyour-own packs held by smokers are illegal. Allocating additional resources in Budget 2027 to Revenue would help fight this criminal market, noted Jennings. CSNA is also calling for accelerated capital allowances for retailers with reverse vending machines (RVM’s). At present, retailers lodge capital allowances for the purchase of an RVM on an annual basis over a number of years. “We're not asking for anything extra; we're just asking for them to accelerate the cost,” said Jennings. “It's not going to cost the state anything; it's just fast-forwarding our relief.” For retailers of all sizes, criminality is an ever-present concern. Musgrave’s spokesperson said, “while significant progress has been made by An Garda Síochána, through initiatives such as Operation Táirge, retailers and their employees continue to experience theft, intimidation and anti-social behaviour on a daily basis.” Alongside swift publication and implementation of the Retail Crime Strategy, RGDATA and Retail Ireland want to see an increase in overall Garda funding and Government measures aimed at protecting retailers. These include targeted funding for community CCTV systems, other security measures and staff training. Musgrave’s spokesperson agreed: “Supporting these independent retailers is critical to sustaining local investment, protecting jobs and maintaining vibrant communities across Ireland.”
Tesco open new superstore in Tyrrelstown TESCO have officially opened the doors to their 194th store in Tyrrelstown, Dublin 15, bringing 65 new jobs to the community. The 22,000 square feet Superstore offers customers a bright, modern retail space, with an extensive range of Irish food and drink products, alongside much loved local favourites from brands such as Tayto, Freshways, Keelings, and Golden Bake. Opening from 8am-9pm daily, shoppers can enjoy the latest F&F fashion ranges, a Tesco mobile phone shop, in store bakery, an off licence, and a DRS machine. Designed with sustainability in mind, the store features energy efficient lighting and modern fridges with doors to help reduce energy use. The store will also be fitted with 220 solar panels on the roof which will provide around 20 percent of the electricity needs of the store. “This is a big moment for me and the new team that’s come together to serve our customers here in Tyrrelstown,” said Store Manager Oisín Gartlan. “We’re excited to welcome everyone to our fabulous new store, and we cannot wait to get to know, and become part of, the local community.” Local Fianna Fáil TD, Jack Chambers TD, Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, said, “I’m delighted to see Tesco open its doors in Tyrrelstown creating 65 new local jobs for the community. This is a vote of confidence for the area. The new store will offer shoppers more choice, while supporting the continued development of Tyrrelstown. I look forward to Tesco becoming an active part of our community.”
Pictured with Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers TD at the official opening of Tesco’s new Superstore in Tyrrelstown are: Geoff Byrne, CEO, Tesco Ireland; Deputy Store Manager Anthony Keith and Store Manager Oisín Gartlan, with Tesco colleagues and the two first customers of the day, Alexa Cooke and Mollie Clarke.
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Fuel drive-offs a growing threat: CSNA FUEL drive-offs are no longer an occasional inconvenience, but have become a growing threat to fuel retailers across Ireland, costing the industry millions each year. That’s according to a new CSNA survey, which asked members how this growing problem was affecting them, what assistance they received from the Gardaí and Courts Service, and what might be done to reduce losses. The survey revealed that 68% of respondents lose between €50-€100 weekly due to fuel drive-offs. This average annual loss of €4,000 extended across 2,000 fuel outlets would indicate a conservative estimate for fuel drive offs to be €8 million per year, and growing. The repercussions of driveoffs extend beyond immediate monetary loss, and ripple through the operational costs, forcing price adjustments and increased security expenditure, creating a cycle that ultimately impacts everyday consumers. Gardaí have stepped up warnings to retailers, urging vigilance and the adaption of preventative measures to stem the growing issue. Yet while increased watchfulness is a good start, the solution lies deeper in technology and convenience. While there is merit in adopting a pre-pay policy, this may only be effective if every service station in the vicinity adopts such a policy. It also requires accepting that many owners are unwilling to alienate or create barriers for their loyal and trustworthy customers. The CSNA survey was answered by 96 owners representing 214 individual service stations, all of whom have experienced a driveoff in the past three months. Indeed, 70% reported an increase in drive-offs in that period, with 80% experiencing drive-offs weekly, 17% daily and 3% monthly. Another issue was where fuel thieves use ‘false, stolen or cloned’ number plates, which has been experienced once or twice by 35% of respondents, three to five times by 38%, and more than five times by 27%. Many members commented that presentation of a logbook should be compulsory for anyone seeking licence plates. There was a degree of dissatisfaction that the Automatic Number Plate recognition system used in Garda vehicles is not more successful in identifying users of false plates. The CSNA asked members to discount any incidences of "genuine forgetfulness" and sought from them the ratio of drive-offs (the driver not coming into the store) and those who elected to either declare they didn't get fuel, or if their method of payment was declined, did not return to clear their indebtedness. 70% were drive-offs and the other 30% are in the category "payment issues".
“We were advised by some retailers that during the recent blockades, on several occasions, motorists refused to pay more than what they had paid the previous occasion they filled up!” revealed Vincent Jennings, CEO, CSNA. The survey also asked members about reporting fuel driveoffs to the Gardaí, with 42% of respondents reporting every incident, 36% reporting “most” incidents, and 22% reporting only “significant” incidents. When pressed on Garda response times to their most recent interaction regarding a drive-off, 20% of respondents reported a delay of more than 48 hours before they received a response from Gardaí. 18% received a response in 24-48 hours. In 26% of cases, the response time was under two hours, with 11% under six hours, 14% under 12 hours, and 11% between 12 and 24 hours. When asked what could be done to help combat this growing problem, many respondents argued that there should be a system in place to provide information about the contact details of the registered car owners, similar to the system that toll road operators in Ireland use to track down those who fail to pay for using toll roads like Dublin’s M50. Respondents also called for much stiffer penalties, including the impounding of vehicles used in what is, after all, a crime. There were also calls for a central database to alert service stations about known offenders. They also asked for a nationwide protocol to be adopted by all investigating Gardaí, who would be familiar with the entitlement of a victim, be they a sole trader or a company, to receive compensation from the perpetrator by way of a Court Order or Attachment Order. The CSNA has sought meetings with both An Garda Síochana and the Department of Justice to progress this matter.
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Warm weather and summer spending lift Irish grocery sales by 4.8% TAKE-HOME grocery sales in Ireland increased by 4.8% over the four weeks to June 14, 2026, compared to the same period last year, according to the latest data from Worldpanel by Numerator. Like-for-like grocery prices rose by 4.77%, a further easing of inflation and down 0.74 percentage points on the previous 12-week period. Shoppers made an average of 23.1 trips to stores this period, one more than the previous month. With school summer holidays under way for many, the summer season is in full flow and at-home eating occasions are driving demand, as volume per buyer increased by 0.7% on the same period last year. Branded goods maintain the highest value share in shopper baskets at 49.1% over the latest 12-week period, growing by 8.8% in value. Own label ranges grew behind branded goods in value terms at 3.3% but outpaced the market on volume, with pack growth ahead of the market at 3.2%. Volume growth is more pronounced across premium ranges, up 10.3% in pack growth. Shoppers are taking advantage of summer promotional offers, with promotional value spend reaching its highest point this year at 23.5%. Shoppers made the most of warmer days, with several summer categories posting strong sales gains. Soft drinks grew by €2.9 million compared to last month, water and squash by €1.27 million, and ice-cream and sorbets added €4.2 million in value sales compared to last month. Suncare demand held firm, with shoppers spending an extra €2.2 million on the category. More at-home eating also lifted fruit sales by €549,000 and bakery breads by €302,000. “June delivered another bank holiday and the start of the World Cup,” noted Eimear Faughnan, Head of Retail at Worldpanel by Numerator (Ireland). “Barbecues fired up across the country, with shoppers spending just over €502,000 more on chilled burgers and grills, and a further €775,000 on prepared salads. Shoppers also widened their drinks repertoire, spending an additional €2 million on flavoured alcoholic drinks and mixers, while beer and cider saw value sales fall by €3.3 million compared to last month.” Online sales continue to post strong growth in the latest 12-week
period, increasing in value by 16.8% year on year. The channel also recruited new shoppers, growing by 12.2% in value and contributing over €26 million. Dunnes maintained their leading position at 23.8% market share, with sales growth of 4.9% year on year. Increased visit frequency and new shoppers combined contributed €21.4 million to their performance. Tesco posted 23.6% share of the market, growing ahead of the market at 5.5% year-on-year value growth. Shopper footfall increased by 2.3% on the same period last year, adding €18.9 million in value sales to their performance. SuperValu’s value share this period is 19.5%. They lead all major retailers on trip frequency, with shoppers averaging 24.6 visits over the latest 12 weeks. New shopper arrivals contributed an additional €17.4 million to performance. Lidl grew their market share again this period to 15%, up 0.2 percentage points, the highest 12-week share posted by the retailer. Value growth for the retailer was 11.1%. Lidl are growing across several levers: increased frequency, volume per trip and new shoppers contributed a combined €47.7 million. Aldi maintained their value share of 11% over the latest 12-week period.
Repak Resource Awards open for entries THE 2026 Repak Resource Awards, Ireland’s national environmental awards, have officially opened for entries. Businesses, community groups, schools and organisations from across Ireland are invited to enter and showcase the initiatives, innovations and people driving progress towards a more circular economy. The Awards celebrate organisations and businesses delivering real impact through waste prevention, recycling, resource efficiency, packaging innovation, reuse and refill initiatives, and circular economy solutions. New award categories have been introduced to celebrate innovation in prevention, reduction, reuse and refill, recognising the organisations and initiatives developing practical solutions to reduce environmental impact and accelerate Ireland's circular economy. “We are delighted to introduce new award categories this year that celebrate the innovation driving Ireland's transition to a more circular economy, with a particular focus on prevention, reduction, reuse and refill,” said Zoe Kavanagh, CEO of Repak. "The Repak Resource Awards ceremony is a fantastic celebration of Ireland’s sustainability champions, bringing together the very best ideas, projects and people from across the country.” Entries close on August 31, with winners revealed at the awards ceremony at The Mansion House, Dublin, on October 23, 2026.
Anton Savage and Zoe Kavanagh, Repak CEO, at the launch of The Repak Resource Awards 2026 which will be held in the Round Room of the Mansion House.
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FSAI issues guidance on new food regulations THE Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has issued new guidance to food businesses on how to comply with stricter EU food safety legal limits for the control of Listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat foods placed on the market. Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that is primarily transmitted through contaminated Greg Dempsey, Chief food. It can lead to a serious Executive, FSAI. illness in humans known as listeriosis. Vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems, are at a higher risk of developing severe illness and associated complications from listeriosis. The new rules, which apply from July 1, 2026, oblige food businesses to have robust food safety controls in place to ensure compliance with the more stringent limit for Listeria monocytogenes. This limit applies to ready-to-eat foods able to support the growth of Listeria monocytogenes, when placed on the market and throughout their shelf-life. Testing against the stricter limit requires the use of a more sensitive microbiological test method that is able to detect Lysteria
monocytogenes at low levels, should it be present in food. This could mean that in the coming months consumers might see more food businesses recalling ready-to-eat foods due to the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. If that happens, then consumers will also see more food alerts through the FSAI food alert system informing them of the actions they need to take for those foods. This is more likely to occur if food businesses do not have robust procedures in place for effectively managing the risk of Listeria monocytogenes in the ready-to-eat foods they manufacture and place on the market. “While the European Union, and Ireland as a Member State, operate one of the most robust food safety systems in the world, it remains vital to continuously improve food safety legislation to safeguard consumer health. Although the new rules continue to place a considerable responsibility on food manufacturers, it is critically important that they comply by implementing effective food safety management procedures to minimise the risk of Listeria monocytogenes,” said Greg Dempsey, Chief Executive, FSAI. “Consumer health protection is of paramount importance. The new rules will effectively raise the microbiological standards expected of food businesses and better protect public health.” Meanwhile, the FSAI revealed that a total of 9,882 complaints and queries were handled by their advice line in 2025. There were 6,135 complaints from consumers, with 33% of complaints relating to unfit food and 28% to poor hygiene standards. Overall, the 6,135 consumer complaints in 2025 represented a 23% increase compared to the previous year, with 4,996 complaints. The figures reflect an upward trend over the past decade. All complaints received by the FSAI in 2025 were followed up and investigated by food inspectors throughout the country. “The continued increase in engagement reflects growing consumer awareness and confidence in reporting issues, as well as a strong expectation that high standards of food safety and hygiene are consistently maintained across the food chain,” noted Greg Dempsey. “In particular, we have seen a significant rise in complaints relating to unfit food and poor hygiene standards, and we would like to thank the public for their continued vigilance in helping us address these issues.”
Lidl promote Irish beef across Europe
Pictured are Kevin Duffy, Lidl Ireland Chief Commercial Officer; Gabrielle Weiss Brummer, Bord Bia; Biance Ioana, Lidl Germany; Richard Booth, Dawn Meats; Mark Zieg, Bord Bia; Ciaran Byrne, Liffey Meats; and Christian Beutel, Lidl International.
FOLLOWING Ireland’s success at the World Steak Challenge, Lidl have launched a major Irish beef promotion across 26 European countries. Featuring four cuts of Irish steak sourced from Dawn Meats and Liffey Meats by Lidl, the supply contract is valued at €10 million, which increases Lidl’s beef exports to more than €32 million this year. The campaign builds on Ireland winning the ‘World’s Best Steak’ title in 2025, when a grassfed Angus striploin produced by Dawn Meats, in partnership with Lidl, took the top award. “We are proud to work with our Irish suppliers to bring award-winning Irish beef to customers across Europe and the UK,” said Kevin Duffy, Lidl Ireland Chief Commercial Officer. “Irish beef is a global gold standard and we are proud to showcase the excellence of the industry across our extensive international store network, bringing Irish provenance to the global stage.”
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National Lottery launches retail compliance campaign THE National Lottery has implemented a strengthened suite of retailer and player-facing measures, following the findings and recommendations arising from the underage mystery shopper research carried out by the Regulator of the National Lottery in 2024. This is designed to help prevent underage play and reinforce compliance standards among retailers and their staff nationwide. 'TLC: Think, Look, Check’ is a new retailer focused age verification and compliance initiative, which aims to support retailers in consistently applying age control requirements at the point of sale for all National Lottery products. The campaign is also supported by new mandatory compliance training videos for all retailers. These materials provide clear guidance and practical instruction on: • Age control laws and legal obligations under the Licence and the National Lottery Act. • Educating retailers on the impact of underage gambling and the risks involved. • Best practice approaches to preventing underage play. This training is part of the National Lottery’s ongoing commitment to strengthening retailer education and ensuring high levels of compliance across the network, as part of its responsibility to stop people who are underage from using its products, given that early gambling experiences, including lottery play, may be a risk factor for later problem gambling. “The sale of National Lottery products to anyone under the age of 18 is prohibited by law and it is important that robust safeguards are in place to ensure those protections are consistently applied across the country,” noted Jack Chambers TD, Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation. “I welcome the introduction of the TLC campaign and the enhanced retailer training programme. These measures will support retailers in meeting their responsibilities and help strengthen age verification at the point of sale." Carol Boate, Regulator of the National Lottery, explained that the second ‘mystery shop’ exercise, carried out in 2024, revealed that progress had been made since the first such exercise in 2018, with more retail staff proactively requesting ID and a significant increase in the number of stores displaying 18+ signage. However,
Jack Chambers TD, Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, is pictured launching the National Lottery’s new retailer compliance campaign with, (l-r): Sara Orme, President of the CSNA; Carol Boate, Regulator of the National Lottery; Cian Murphy, CEO of the National Lottery; and Venkatesham Juluri, owner of Centra Hansfield. she expressed concern that nearly three in 10 shops visited were still prepared to sell National Lottery products to minors. “I have proactively engaged with the National Lottery operator, PLI, about additional measures to increase awareness and compliance amongst retailers,” she noted. “I welcome the initiative being launched by the Minister, which will help move us towards achieving our shared goal of ensuring no child in Ireland can buy a National Lottery product and I hope to see that progress reflected in the next in our series of “mystery shop” reports.” Cian Murphy, CEO, National Lottery, stressed that protecting young people from underage play remains "a central priority" for PLI, and that the TLC campaign was designed "to significantly elevate awareness and strengthen age verification standards across our retail network". He said: “Over the coming months, we will implement a series of further measures, including the launch of a new retailer app and additional training videos for retail staff. These initiatives are designed to enhance compliance and continue supporting our retail partners in meeting their responsibilities."
RGDATA appoints new Director General
Roseanne Regan, incoming RGDATA Director General.
RGDATA has announced the appointment of Roseanne Regan as Director General, with effect from September 2026, on the retirement of outgoing Director General, Tara Buckley. Currently Head of Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability with RedClick, Roseanne has over 15 years of senior experience across the aviation, insurance, FMCG and retail sectors. The President of RGDATA Colin Fee welcomed the announcement: “This is a great appointment for RGDATA. Roseanne has a wealth of relevant experience that will serve her and our members well in this new role. Roseanne’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for the independent retail grocery sector. Roseanne knows the retail grocery trade well, having worked for RGDATA early in her career.”
Colin Fee also paid tribute to the outgoing Director General, Tara Buckley: “Tara Buckley has been an outstanding Director General for the organisation for the last 22 years and will leave RGDATA in an excellent position when she retires in September. We thank Tara and wish her and her family the very best in the years ahead.” Roseanne Regan is looking forward to taking up the role: “I am delighted to take on the role of Director General at such an important time for the sector. Independent retailers are facing significant challenges, and it is more important than ever that their voice is heard. I look forward to building on the excellent work of my predecessor and ensuring RGDATA continues to be a strong and effective advocate for independent grocery retail in Ireland.”
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News Enterprise Ireland Food Innovation Summit returns to Croke Park ENTERPRISE Ireland recently hosteds its annual Food Innovation Summit at Croke Park, bringing together hundreds of food and drink companies, researchers and industry partners for Ireland's only dedicated event focused on innovation in the sector. The Summit follows another year of growth for the sector. Enterprise Ireland's three key sectors all saw steady, positive growth in 2025, with Food, Drink, Nutrition and ClimateTech exports reaching €16.98 billion, up 5%. The sector employs almost 70,000 people in towns and villages right across the country. Now in its fourth year, the Summit comes at a demanding time for the industry. Companies across the food and drink sector are managing significant cost pressures, from rising input and raw material costs to wider global volatility, that are testing businesses of every size. The Summit focused on what companies can control: investment in innovation, AI and skills, and capability needed for the sector’s next chapter. It also explored major shifts in global consumer demand, including the accelerating impact of GLP-1 weight-loss medications on demand for high-protein, high-fibre, low-sugar and portion-controlled products. “Ireland’s food and drink sector is one of the cornerstones of our exporting economy and a major source of regional employment,” noted Alan Dillon TD, Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment. “Supporting these businesses to scale is central to the Government’s enterprise agenda. In a more volatile global environment, our long-term competitiveness rests on what we can control: the investment we make in innovation, in research and development, and in the skills of our workforce.” Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD, said: “Our food and drink companies continue to perform strongly in international markets, built on the quality and integrity of the entire chain from primary production through to export. Consumer expectations are evolving - on transparency, on sustainability, on innovation - and Irish producers are responding. Food Vision 2030 sets the direction for the sector, and the Summit is an important part of delivering on it. However, success today is no guarantee of success tomorrow. We cannot view research and innovation as a
Pictured at the Enterprise Ireland Food Summit 2026 are Lisa Hughes, Co-Founder & COO, Gigi Supplements; Jim Woulfe, Chairman, Enterprise Ireland; Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Alan Dillon TD; Andy Mulloy, Managing Director, Connemara Seafoods; and Ellen Ní Cléirigh, Enterprise Ireland. ‘nice to have’. “As a sector, we must constantly question are we sufficiently utilising the huge range of supports that are available. We are also seeing many of the high skilled graduates from our public food research system being recruited by other sectors of the economy; this is a massive lost opportunity. Government is creating the conditions for innovation. We are investing in research, infrastructure, skills and support programmes. But ultimately, innovation requires businesses to make the investment and to prioritise R&I if we are to realise the future growth potential of this critically important indigenous sector.” Jim Woulfe, Chairman, Enterprise Ireland, described this as “a challenging time for food and drink companies", but noted how "it is precisely in moments like this that innovation matters most.” The Summit featured a keynote on ‘Navigating the Now: Staying Strong, Leading and Innovating in a Changing Food Landscape’, from Enda Buckley, Director of Sustainability, Carbery Group, in conversation with Tom Cusack, Enterprise Ireland, as well as expert panels on practical R&D for food innovation; using AI to improve planning, profit and performance; and developing skills and capability to remain competitive.
New manufacturing report highlights challenges and opportunities IRISH manufacturers are navigating one of the most significant periods of industrial change in decades, as businesses respond to artificial intelligence, geopolitical uncertainty, rising competitiveness pressures and the need to build greater resilience into their operations, according to the 2025 Annual Report from Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR). The report outlines a year of significant national and European impact, highlighting how manufacturers across Ireland are investing in digital transformation, automation, sustainability and workforce capability to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape. In 2025, IMR supported 679 unique industrial organisations and delivered 704 engagements across sectors including food, engineering, medtech, aerospace, construction products, polymers and advanced materials. “Manufacturing is undergoing a profound period of transformation,” said Barry Kennedy, CEO of IMR. “Companies are facing increasing pressure to improve productivity, strengthen resilience, reduce environmental impact and remain competitive
Pictured are (l-r): Melanie Horkan, HR Manager, IMR; Maurice O'Connell, COO, IMR; Gina Horan, CFO, IMR; and Barry Kennedy, CEO, IMR. in an increasingly complex global environment. At the same time, technologies such as artificial intelligence are creating significant opportunities to transform how manufacturing operates.”
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10|Retail News|July / August 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Industry News Gala Retail make a splash for Special Olympics Ireland GALA Retail recently provided 45,000 bottles of water for athletes, coaches and volunteers at the 2026 Special Olympics Ireland Games in Dublin. The Games took place from June 18-21, and saw 1,200 athletes compete, supported by hundreds of coaches and official delegates, and thousands of volunteers helped to run the Games. Gala Retail are a platinum sponsor of Special Olympics Ireland, and this year marks the company's 12th year of sponsorship. In that time, over €1 million has been raised for Special Olympics Ireland by Gala Retail, their stores and customers. “Our association with Special Olympics Ireland stretches back to 2015, and it’s a journey we’re immensely proud of,” noted Tony Cluskey, Marketing & Ambient Trading Manager, Gala Retail, pictured with Karen Coventry, CEO of Special Olympics Ireland.
SuperValu customers raise €150,000 for Focus Ireland SUPERVALU have raised €150,000 for Focus Ireland through customer donations via the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), providing financial aid to families experiencing homelessness. Since launching in November 2025, the initiative has empowered customers nationwide to donate their DRS vouchers in-store, raising an average of €25,000 per month for the charity. “Supporting families and communities is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re proud to exclusively partner with Focus Ireland to help families and children experiencing homelessness,” said Des O’Mahony, Director of Strategy Retail, Musgrave, pictured with Pat Dennigan, CEO of Focus Ireland.
John West Féile na nGael OVER 200 club sides, comprising thousands of players, recently competed in the John West under-15 Féile na nGael Camogie and Hurling Finals 2026 across numerous venues nationwide. What has grown to become one of the biggest underage sporting events in Europe saw top tier teams descend on O'Moore Park and the LOETB Centre of Excellence, Portlaoise, as well as other Laois and Carlow venues, for the national finals. On the same day, almost 200 teams took part in the John West Féile na nGael regional finals at venues across Ireland for sides outside the top grade. All-Ireland winning Galway camogie captain Carrie Dolan is pictured with U15 O'Tooles player Holly Dempsey at Croke Park in advance of the John West Féile na nGael finals 2026.
Aldi open new Dooradoyle store
ALDI Ireland recently marked 20 years since their first store in Limerick by officially opening their newest store in Dooradoyle. The new €13 million store was officially opened by the local Aldi team, including Store Manager, Michael Essex, alongside Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with Special Responsibility for Forestry, Horticulture and Farm Safety, Niall Collins TD, and Aldi Play Rugby Ambassadors, current Irish rugby coach and former Ireland captain Paul O’Connell and Ireland International Rugby Player, Beibhinn Parsons. The new 1,820 square-metre store features Aldi’s award-winning Project Fresh layout, with wide aisles and hi-spec fixtures and fittings. Aldi shoppers will have access to 88 car parking spaces, including 10 electric vehicle charging spaces.
Senior appointments at Ornua ORNUA, the Irish dairy co-operative and Kerrygold owner, have announced two new senior appointments in line with the ongoing implementation of the company’s new global operating model. Shane Henry (left) has been appointed as Managing Director of Ornua Dairy Ingredients. The newly established global business unit within the Ornua Group, brings together Ornua’s member relations and services, dairy procurement, dairy trading, and route-to-market activities as one dedicated platform focused on maximising value from Irish dairy. Seán McHugh (right) has been appointed as Head of Global Manufacturing and Operational Excellence, where he will have responsibility for driving performance across Ornua’s extensive global manufacturing footprint and creating value through the establishment of a standardised operational excellence programme.
12|Retail News|July / August 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Industry News Circle K announce new Irish MD CIRCLE K Ireland have announced the appointment of Paul Dixon as Managing Director, leading Circle K’s Irish business from August 1, 2026. Paul brings more than 20 years 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. “I am delighted to be taking on the leadership of Circle K Ireland and humbled to have the opportunity to lead a business and team that I know so well,” he said. “I look forward to supporting the continued development of our people, working closely with our retail partners, and continuing to deliver great experiences for customers across our retail and commercial businesses.”
Tesco Ireland partner with Certa on decarbonisation
TESCO Ireland have taken a significant step toward lowering their transport emissions by transitioning 164 of their Grocery Home Shopping (GHS) delivery vans from diesel to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). This move means over one third of Tesco’s grocery home shopping delivery fleet is now operating on lower carbon fuel, with ambitions to scale to 50% by the end of the year. Certa-supplied HVO is produced from waste material feedstocks and can be used as a direct replacement for diesel, without engine modifications. Pictured at the Tesco Ireland/Certa partnership announcement are (l-r): Paul Healy, Tesco Ireland Retail Operations Director; Orla Stevens, Managing Director, Certa Ireland; Darragh O’Brien TD, Minister for Transport and Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment.
New Lidl store opens in Graiguecullen
LIDL Ireland have opened the doors of their new store in Graiguecullen, Carlow, with Carlow LGFA captain Róisín Bailey and Laois LGFA captain Andrea Moran joining the Lidl team to perform the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Lidl Graiguecullen will be the first top energy-rated supermarket of its kind in Ireland, achieving the highest A0 Building Energy Rating (BER), following the opening of Ireland’s first net zero supermarket at Lidl Maynooth in November last year. Pictured are store manager Katarzyna Kornas, Laois LGFA captain Andrea Moran, Carlow LGFA captain Róisín Bailey, and Gráinne McCann, Sales Operations Manager.
B Corp for Ballymaloe BALLYMALOE Foods have achieved B Corporation certification, joining a global community of businesses that meet exceptional standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. “The environmental challenges facing us, from climate change to biodiversity loss, are gravely concerning. We're doing our best to play our part and make a positive impact where we can. Achieving B Corp certification is a really proud moment for us and recognition of the work of our team,” noted Maxine Hyde (right), General Manager of Ballymaloe Foods, pictured with Rosaleen Hyde, Operations Manager, and Johnny Tobin Allen, Sustainability Representative, Ballymaloe Foods.
Nature Valley supporting Ryder Cup NATURE Valley have announced their official support the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor in Limerick. The partnership marks a significant milestone for the Nature Valley brand and strengthens a long-standing association with the game of golf in Ireland. The Nature Valley brand has supported Irish golf for over 15 years and has been the official snack bar of the Amgen Irish Open on the DP World Tour for over 10 years. In the lead-up to the 2027 tournament, Nature Valley will undertake a nationwide activation programme. Alongside this, the brand will have a strong presence at upcoming Amgen Irish Open tournaments, including at Doonbeg in 2026 and The K Club in 2027, building momentum ahead of Ryder Cup week. “We're incredibly excited about Nature Valley's partnership with the Ryder Cup,” said Gráinne Galvin (centre), Country Manager, General Mills Ireland, pictured with Serena Massey, Senior Business Account Manager, and Patrick McKinney, Partnerships Sales Manager, 2027 Ryder Cup.
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14|Retail News|July / August 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Cover Story: AG Barr
Building great brands: AG Barr step up investment in Ireland AG Barr are investing significant resources into Ireland, with a strengthened local leadership team, continued brand support, and an innovative portfolio set to shake up the Irish drinks category. FROM energy drinks and carbonates to premium soft drinks and cocktails, AG Barr are building one of the drinks industry's most diverse brand portfolios, and Ireland is playing a central role in their future growth plans. Already the company's largest market outside Great Britain, Ireland has become a key focus for investment, with
Gavan Morris, International Business Unit Director, AG Barr.
giving Irish retailers access to a broader portfolio from a single supplier.
Evolving brand portfolio That strategy is backed by continued investment in innovation, marketing, expanded distribution, and strategic acquisitions, ensuring retailers have access to brands that continue to Boost continues to evolve with receive significant changing investment, including shopper Significant investment major marketing behaviour. “Ireland is our largest market outside campaigns and retail Boost Great Britain and remains one of the activation. continues biggest opportunities for growth across to receive significant investment, including our business,” explained Gavan Morris, major marketing campaigns and retail International Business Unit Director at activation, while Irn-Bru remains one of the AG Barr. “We've invested significantly in UK's most recognised soft drinks brands, our brands and our people because we supported by continued innovation and want to be even closer to our customers. consumer marketing. By combining AG Barr's expertise with Rubicon has emerged as one of AG the outstanding market knowledge of Barr's standout growth stories, doubling Tennant & Ruttle, we've created a team in size over the past four years to become that is focused on helping retailers and a £100 million brand, with Rubicon Spring wholesalers grow their businesses." The strengthened team reflects AG Barr's now established as the UK's number one wider strategy of building a multi-beverage flavoured sparkling water. The recent additions of Frobishers and business that meets consumer demand Fentimans further strengthen AG Barr's across every drinking occasion. Alongside premium offering, responding to growing household names such as Boost, Irn-Bru consumer demand for premium soft drinks, and Rubicon, the company continues to invest in premium brands, including Funkin adult refreshment, and quality mixers, while Funkin Cocktails continues to broaden the Cocktails, Frobishers and Fentimans, a strengthened local leadership team, continued brand support, and an expanding portfolio designed to help retailers capitalise on changing consumer trends. Leading that ambition is a strengthened Ireland team. Gavan Morris continues as AG Barr's International Business Unit Director, while Brendan Loughran has joined the business as Ireland Country Manager. Working alongside them are Paul Ryan, Head of Sales ROI, and Paul Kelly, Business Development Manager ROI, both from AG Barr's long-standing Ireland distribution partner, Tennant & Ruttle. Together, the team is focused on delivering stronger customer support, accelerating growth and helping retailers unlock opportunities across multiple drinks categories.
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Cover Story: AG Barr company's presence within premium cocktail occasions. Building strong retail partnerships Brendan Loughran, Ireland Country Manager at AG Barr, said: “Our priority is to build strong partnerships with retailers, wholesalers and the licensed trade across Ireland. Every customer is different, so it's about understanding their business, supporting them with the right brands, and helping them grow their soft drinks category. We have an outstanding The iconic portfolio, exciting Irn-Bru brand innovation planned, is supported and a team that's by continued committed to innovation delivering real value and consumer for customers.” marketing. As AG Barr celebrates 150 years in business, the company continues to evolve beyond its iconic heritage into one of the UK's leading branded drinks businesses. With continued investment in innovation, brand development and customer partnerships, the business is well positioned to support Irish retailers today and long into the future. For Gavan, the focus remains simple: “Building great brands isn't just about launching new products. It's about investing behind them, supporting our customers, and Rubicon has emerged as one creating long-term partnerships. That's of AG Barr's standout growth exactly what we're stories, doubling doing in Ireland, and we're excited about in size over the what the future holds.” past four years.
Brendan Loughran, Ireland Country Manager, AG Barr.
Barr swing into summer with Spider-Man: Brand New Day BARR are teaming up with one of the most anticipated blockbuster films of 2026, Sony Pictures’ Spider-Man: Brand New Day, releasing exclusively in cinemas on July 29, in a major on-pack promotion designed to drive excitement on the soft drinks fixture this summer. Launched across Barr's 2L format, the promotion will appear on more than 4.4 million packs, giving shoppers the chance to win an unforgettable holiday to New York City, the iconic home of Spider-Man. The collaboration will be supported by a significant Barr’s Spider-Man: Brand New Day promotion above-the-line marketing gives consumers the chance to win an campaign running from July through to mid-August, unforgettable holiday to New York City, the iconic home of Spider-Man. spanning social media, YouTube, Disney+ and OOH advertising, and is expected to reach more than nine million shoppers. Retailers and wholesalers can expect impactful in-store and in-depot activation designed to drive visibility and generate demand at fixtures. Eye-catching creative, clear messaging and strong media support will maximise awareness and conversion throughout the campaign. “We're thrilled to be collaborating with Sony Pictures’ Spider-Man: Brand New Day, one of the most exciting film releases of the year and a franchise that enjoys huge appeal across generations,” noted Annette Yates, Barr Brand Director at AG Barr. “This promotion combines the power of blockbuster entertainment with a compelling prize mechanic, giving shoppers the chance to win an incredible trip to New York, while driving excitement around the Barr brand. “With over 4.4 million promotional packs in market, high impact ATL support and engaging in-store and in-depot activation, we're confident this campaign will drive footfall, increase rate of sale and make the most of the summer trading opportunity.”
16|Retail News|July / August 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Agri-Food Regulator Supplier Survey
Positive results from second Agri-Food Supplier Survey
Results from the second Agri-Food Regulator Supplier Survey were broadly positive, but there are lessons to learn for buyers and suppliers in the FMCG business. COMMUNICATION issues are points of failure between suppliers and buyers of food and drink products in the retail and wholesale sector. Silence, limited access, transactional engagement, and a lack of collaboration are key drivers of relationship breakdown. This is one of the insights of the second annual Agri-Food Regulator’s supplier survey, which was published recently. The survey gathers feedback on trading relationships with eight specific buyers: Aldi, BWG, Dunnes Stores, Lidl, M&S, Musgrave, Sysco and Tesco. It was noted that poor communication with their buyer can stall a supplier business, prevent planning, and create conflict. Sometimes this can come as a result of a change in personnel, with no update from the buyer as to who the new personnel is. Meanwhile, an email-only relationship creates an impersonal and weaker connection. One supplier observed that face-to-face contact “is very powerful, as the buyer remembers the person behind the business and they are not just seen as the SKU”. Stronger relationships involve regular and high-quality communication that
fosters an understanding of each other’s business realities. It also allows for early engagement that can mitigate serious commercial fallout. High satisfaction levels “Overall, there is high satisfaction with how buyers conduct their business,” explained Niamh Lenehan, CEO of the Agri-Food Regulator. “But experiences for suppliers vary from buyer to buyer. Businessto-business relationships are like any relationship; stronger ones are formed by a partnership mindset.” 485 suppliers completed the survey this year, resulting in responses relating to 1,313 trading relationships, a 58% increase in the number of respondents. The supplier businesses ranged across food categories from fruit, vegetables, meat, fish and poultry to ambient, chilled dairy, ready meals and frozen foods. Drinks are also classified as agri-food products 13% of respondents supplied non-alcoholic drinks and 12% supplied alcoholic drinks as are flowers and plants. One section of the survey examines compliance by the buyers with the Unfair Trading (UT) Regulations from the
suppliers’ perspective. The Agri-Food Regulator is the enforcement authority for these regulations in Ireland since its establishment in late 2023. The UT Regulations provide legal protection for suppliers of agri-food products against 16 specific unfair trading practices (UTPs) by their buyer, in situations where the supplier’s annual turnover is lower than the buyer’s turnover and the buyer’s turnover is greater than €2 million. 10 of the UTPs are prohibited in all circumstances, while the remaining six are prohibited unless there is an agreement in place before-hand. 11% of survey respondents felt they experienced one of the UTPs, with some suppliers reporting experiencing multiple UTPs with multiple buyers. 4% said they were subject to cancellations of orders of perishable products with less than 30 days’ notice, while 3% said that they were required to pay for the loss or deterioration of their product where such loss was not due to their own negligence. Respondents reported breaches of the UTP payment terms of not later than 30 days for perishable products and not later than 60 days for non-perishable products,
Retail News|July / August 2026|www.retailnews.ie|17
Agri-Food Regulator Supplier Survey
Niamh Lenehan, CEO of the Agri-Food Regulator. with 3% of suppliers indicating that they had experienced each. “Our role is to ensure full compliance with the regulations,” said Melanie Hall, Head of Unfair Trading Practices Compliance and Enforcement in the AgriFood Regulator. “While the survey is not a mechanism to file a complaint with the Regulator, it is a process for suppliers to inform us of their trading experiences in confidence.” The survey was conducted independently by Red C Research on behalf of the AgriFood Regulator. While the Regulator sought the assistance from the eight buyer businesses to distribute the survey, buyers do not know if a supplier business did or did not complete it. Combating the fear factor “We are aware of the fear factor in not only filing a complaint but also addressing the underlying issue with their buyer,” continued Melanie. “And this year we wanted to further explore suppliers’ experiences and commissioned Red C to conduct qualitative research with respondents who agreed to follow-up interviews.” The survey findings included: • A high overall level of supplier satisfaction with how buyers conduct their business. • High levels of compliance with the UT regulations, though one in nine respondents still report being subject to an unfair trading practice (down from one in seven last year). • Cancellation of orders of perishable
•
products with less than 30 days’ notice, late payment, and requiring the supplier to pay for loss or product deterioration were the most common issues faced by respondents. Fear of backlash and loss of business was the leading reason for suppliers not reporting experience of UTPs.
The survey also found increased awareness of the Regulator’s confidential complaints process (one in two), though there remains some uncertainty about how to engage in this process. “The survey findings include a number of positives,” noted Niamh Lenehan. “Overall satisfaction with buyers has increased, with positive supplier experiences linked to good communication, understanding one another’s business
realities, and a partnership mindset. There has also been a percentage decrease in the numbers of suppliers who report having encountered a UTP. “However, 11% of suppliers still report experiencing a UTP in the past year. The Regulator’s role is to ensure full compliance with the regulations and to support fair and transparent trading relationships across the agri-food supply chain,” she continued. “Moreover, we need to ensure that all suppliers feel confident in raising a potential breach of the UT Regulations. Many suppliers expressed a fear of retaliation if they raised a complaint. As the Regulator, we still have much work to do in reassuring suppliers of the confidential complaints process, and their rights in their trading relationships.” Melanie noted how the survey findings reveal that supplier-buyer relationships are generally stable and of a long-term nature but that suppliers feel that they're not always fair or balanced. “Suppliers report that the stronger trading relationships are ones where communications are
Joe Healy, Chair of the Board, Agri-Food Regulator.
18|Retail News|July / August 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Agri-Food Regulator Supplier Survey Agri-Food Regulator Supplier Survey 2026 Base: All direct suppliers - 359
Overall Satisfaction with How Buyers Conduct Their Business
Satisfied
80%
78%
77%
79% 67%
Dissatisfied
68%
Musgrave
72% 2026
75%
8%
Dunnes
13%
10%
Aldi
10%
6%
5%
8%
BWG
76%
70%
60%
18%
8%
12%
3%
76%
15%
14% 9%
77%
78%
77%
71%
12%
2025
2025 2026
7%
M&S*
Lidl
*Caution Small Base Size
Tesco
Sysco
Generally high satisfaction among suppliers.
open, transparent and genuine, and those suppliers who spoke of weaker trading relationships cited reasons such as a lack of personal contact from buyers, as well as pricing pressures that small suppliers find difficult to absorb.” The survey revealed the total percentage of UTPs that direct suppliers reported experiencing with their specific buyers, and even broke it down by retail buyer. While acknowledging that there has been a drop in reported UTP incidents by buyer business almost everywhere across the board, Melanie also noted that “the number of UTPs experienced as reported in our survey do not reflect the number of complaints we have received from suppliers. So if UTPs are occurring, they are likely being underreported.” She noted that low numbers of supplier complaints is consistent across the EU. This research discovered that suppliers do not raise a UTP with their buyer out of fear of delisting, retribution or damaging an already fractured relationship. If a supplier is going to escalate an issue, they prefer
to do so directly with their buyer, believing that joint resolution has a long-term benefit to the relationship. Raising a UTP with the Regulator is seen as a last resort. One small business owner interviewed as part of the qualitive research said that for them “if it meant nearly shutting the business down, like a full delisting for invalid reasons, then it would probably become a valuable avenue of resolution.” Other respondents said they were unsure of the anonymity of the process and feared that, even if the Regulator did not identify them, the buyer would figure out who the complaint came from through a process of elimination. “Resolving an issue with your buyer is a positive way to build on your relationship,” agreed Melanie. “But given that these regulations were introduced five years ago, we understand that some suppliers may not fully be aware or understand them.” She stressed that suppliers can contact the Regulator in confidence for advice and guidance about the protections offered
Agri-Food Regulator Supplier Survey 2026 Base: All direct suppliers - 359
Branded/Own Label Agricultural And Food Products Supplied BRANDED
35%
OWN LABEL
BOTH BRANDED & OWN LABEL
17%
22%
19%
12%
6% Ambient
14%
17% 12%
13% 3%
10%
8%
9%
4%
1%
1%
1%
Chilled dairy/ready meals
Alcoholic drinks
Non-alcoholic drinks
4%
3%
3% Meat/fish/poultry
15%
14%
6% 3% 6% Fruit/vegetables
5%
4%
3%
2% 1% 1%
Frozen foods
Flowers/plants
under the unfair trading practices rules: “Giving us a call or sending an email to us does not mean an automatic filing of a complaint. And it means a supplier who is fully informed of their protections under the UTPs is on a stronger footing when raising the issue with their buyer.” The survey also found that suppliers who had raised an issue with the Agri-Food Regulator had a positive experience and were directed with ease and efficiency. Regulator shows its teeth Joe Healy, Chair of the Board of the AgriFood Regulator, reflected on the recent court case in Ennis, Co. Clare, where 79 breaches of UTPs for the non-payment for cattle and sheep to 12 farmers were found to be proven in a case taken by the Regulator against a meat company. He also highlighted the fact that the Regulator will have the power to compel businesses to provide information to them from December 31, 2026, which he noted will be a “game changer in the provision of greater transparency in business-to-business relationships”, and he acknowledged the efforts of Minister Martin Heydon in securing this power. He noted how the Regulator will shortly be requesting specific data relating to two sectors and warned that “we will invoke the power to compel the provision of this information as early as possible in 2027 if the requested data is not provided voluntarily”. Niamh Lenehan stressed that there are a number of restrictions in the legislation allowing them to compel businesses to supply information, including limiting businesses involved to those with 50 or more employees and an annual turnover over €10 million (with those below those thresholds exempt from the legislation). The Regulator also cannot compel a business to provide data more than once in a 12-month period per product, nor can it compel the provision of future price and margin data. Despite the new legislation giving the Regulator the power to compel businesses to provide information, Niamh stresses that the Regulator’s collaborative and partnership approach in terms of gathering data has not changed. “It is going to continue to be a collaborative effort,” she insists. “Indeed, one of the important pieces of that very prescriptive piece of legislation is that we must have had sought the information voluntarily from businesses in the first instance before we can compel them to provide it.”
Retail News|July / August 2026|www.retailnews.ie|19
Agri-Food Regulator Supplier Survey notice and inadequate processes in place to resolve invoice discrepancies.” Base: All direct suppliers - 359 Niamh Lenehan believes that while the Top Five UTPs Reported with Buyers - The Supplier View 2026 results are broadly positive, they UTPs Experienced also provide a roadmap for the Regulator, Any UTP Experienced 11% for suppliers and for retailers for the year ahead. “I urge both suppliers and buyers to read 4% Cancellations of orders of perishable products with less than 30 days’ notice the complete survey findings,” she says. 3% “The research helps inform the work of the Requiring supplier to pay for the loss or deterioration of their product Regulator, but it also gives buyers a valuable 31% 3% insight into suppliers’ perspective. For Payment later than 30 days for perishable product suppliers, it affords them the opportunity 3% to contextualise their experience with their Payment later than 60 days for non-perishable product peers. 3% Unilateral contract changes by the buyer “For the Regulator, we need to do lots more work in terms of visibility, awareness, Some suppliers may have reported experiencing multiple UTPs with multiple buyers. and understanding. In particular, we need The CEO also noted that the legislation September of this year. “We have a small to emphasise that the complaints process is is designed to protect sensitive business team, but they are extremely hardworking confidential and to stress to businesses that information from publication. Where and innovative and we are always looking they can contact us in confidence to ask us a the Regulator serves an official notice for ways to improve things,” Niamh says. question and it won't generate an automatic compelling a business to provide complaint. information, it undertakes to consult Challenges for the year ahead “For suppliers, the call to action is to get with the business prior to any publishing Getting back to the 2026 survey results, yourself acquainted with what the rules are of information. She stresses that any the survey also examined some of the and if you have any questions, there are data published will be appropriately wider issues facing agri-food suppliers in useful FAQs on our website, but they can also aggregated so individual businesses are the coming year. 24% of respondents noted come forward and talk to us in confidence.” not identifiable, nor are their figures. pricing strategies and cost management For buyers, they can examine the results “We're not permitted, obviously, to do any as a key concern, with pricing pressures of the survey, to see where improvements damage to business, nor are we allowed to (15%) and market volatility (14%) ranking as can be made. “Although there is a high level publish information that would identify a leading issues. of satisfaction amongst the suppliers with business unless they wished to do so.” “25% of respondents said they had how the buyers conduct their business, The rest of 2026 will see the Regulator experienced a general trading issue there is always room for improvement, preparing for the new legislation giving with a buyer,” noted Melanie Hall. “Cost particularly in terms of communications: are it the power to compel, while it is price increases were the most common you available and accessible?” simultaneously in the process of developing at 12%, followed by issues of delays or The complete findings of the Agri-Food its strategy for 2027-29, which will be non-payment, where there are delivery Regulator Supplier Survey 2026 are available submitted to Minister Heydon by the end of disputes, delisting without reasonable on www.agrifoodregulator.ie. Agri-Food Regulator Supplier Survey 2026
Agri-Food Regulator Supplier Survey 2026 Base: All - 485
Awareness of Agri-Food Regulator Operating a Confidential Complaints Process Awareness of Agri-Food Regulator Operating a Confidential Complaints Process
50%
(55%)
50%
(45%)
Minority cite survey as source of Agri-Food Regulator awareness
Yes
Would You Raise a UTP With The Agri-Food Regulator?
Some uncertainty around how to engage in practice and what happens if you do engage Is there anonymity? How quickly do things escalate? Is there an advisory element? An education element that can support suppliers while having difficult conversations?
38% 51%
No 11%
Yes No
Don't know
20|Retail News|July / August 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Retail Ireland: Monthly Update
A path to resilience: Budget priorities
IRISH retailers are operating in a more stable but still uncertain consumer environment. While headline indicators suggest continued growth, the reality on the ground is more nuanced. Consumers remain cautious, managing spending carefully and prioritising value as the cost of living continues to weigh. Recent analysis from Amárach Research highlights an ongoing shift in behaviour. A significant majority of consumers report cutting back on non-essential spending and switching to lower-cost alternatives, while many households say they have very little left after meeting everyday expenses. For retailers, this creates a challenging dynamic. Demand is holding, but it is more price-sensitive, more controlled and harder to grow. At the same time, business costs continue to rise. With October’s budget fast approaching, this combination of cautious consumers and increasing operating costs presents a critical test for the sector. A sector under pressure Retail remains at the heart of the domestic economy, employing over 300,000 people and supporting communities across the country. However, the pressures building across labour, energy, logistics and compliance are becoming increasingly difficult to absorb, particularly in a market where customers are focused firmly on value. The most immediate concern is the rising cost base. Labourintensive sectors like retail are particularly exposed to cumulative increases in employer PRSI, higher wage floors, and growing regulatory requirements. The planned increase in employer PRSI alone is expected to cost €205 million in 2027, with a disproportionate impact on sectors with large workforces such as retail. For many operators, especially SMEs, this leaves little room to absorb further cost increases. In a highly competitive market, where passing on costs is not always possible, the impact is felt directly in margins, investment decisions and, ultimately, pricing.
Energy and inflation pressures Energy costs remain a significant challenge. Electricity and fuel costs are still well above EU averages, affecting everything from store operations to distribution networks. At the same time, recent retail sales growth has been driven largely by rising prices rather than increased volumes, underlining the ongoing impact of inflation on the sector. With further price pressures expected, including in energy and food, retailers continue to operate in an environment where both costs and demand remain uncertain. Priorities for Budget 2027 Against this backdrop, the priorities for Budget 2027 are clear, supporting business viability while protecting consumer purchasing power. Managing costs must remain the central focus: Postponing planned increases in employer PRSI would ease immediate pressure Tel: 01-6051558 |
on labour-intensive businesses. At the same time, measures to support household disposable income, including adjustments to tax bands and credits, would help sustain consumer spending in a cautious market. Energy affordability is critical: Retailers have limited scope to absorb sustained increases, and targeted, temporary supports, alongside long-term investment in infrastructure, will be key to maintaining competitiveness. Investing in skills remains a priority: Retail is undergoing rapid change, driven by digitalisation, AI, and evolving customer expectations. Ensuring access to training and development supports, particularly for SMEs, will be essential. This includes fully utilising the National Training Fund, expanding digital supports, and continuing to strengthen apprenticeship and structured training pathways. Addressing retail crime has become increasingly urgent: Rising levels of theft, anti-social behaviour and abuse are creating difficult and, in many cases, unsafe working environments. A clear and coordinated response, including the publication and full implementation of the National Retail Crime Strategy and stronger protections for workers, is needed to restore confidence in retail settings. Supporting town and city centres is critical: Vacancy, reduced footfall and safety concerns continue to impact performance across many locations. Providing multi-annual funding for regeneration and establishing a dedicated Town Centre Recovery Fund would support commercial activity and help revitalise key areas. Maintaining momentum on sustainability will require the right supports: Retailers are committed to investing in energy efficiency and low-carbon operations, but these investments must remain practical and affordable. Addressing energy costs, providing incentives and tackling grid constraints will be central to progress. Looking ahead The outlook for Irish retail reflects both resilience and risk. While overall economic conditions remain relatively strong, consumer sentiment is subdued and spending behaviour remains cautious and value driven. At the same time, businesses face sustained increases in operating costs that are becoming increasingly difficult to absorb. Without timely and proportionate measures, there is a real risk of reduced competitiveness, constrained trading, and pressure across store networks. With the right approach, however, retail can continue to provide employment, deliver value for consumers and support vibrant local communities. Our message to Government is clear. Supporting retail is not only about business viability, but also about protecting jobs, sustaining household spending power, and maintaining the economic life of towns and cities across Ireland.
www.retailireland.ie
Need more? For more information about Retail Ireland and details of how your retail business can benefit from our unique services and supports, please visit us at www.retailireland.ie.
22|Retail News|July / August 2026|www.retailnews.ie
Retail News Interview
Uncomplicating the message Louise Cassidy, Marketing Director, Aldi Ireland, explains why Aldi’s latest brand strategy, ‘It’s Not Complicated.”, is more than a marketing strategy and is more a touch-point for every aspect of the retailer’s business model in Ireland. LOUISE Cassidy is the Marketing Director behind Aldi’s high profile brand strategy, ‘It’s Not Complicated’, which has garnered huge amounts of attention for the retailer, with anecdotal evidence even pointing to grudging admiration from competitors, along the lines of ‘Why didn’t we think of that first?’ Louise joined Aldi Ireland as Marketing Director in January 2024, having spent the previous couple of years with the Football Association of Ireland, prior to which she has extensive experience with two other Irish grocery giants, Dunnes Stores and Tesco. “For the majority of consumers, marketing serves as their initial touchpoint with a brand,” Louise muses. “It shapes that crucial first impression, establishing a tangible sense of who an organisation is and what it does. I joined Aldi in 2024, a milestone year as the company celebrated its 25th anniversary of operations in Ireland. By that stage, the brand was already deeply established as a cornerstone of the Irish grocery sector. Reaching that 25-year mark presented an exciting pivotal moment to look toward the future. The opportunity to drive the strategic direction and actively shape the next chapter of such a high-profile brand
was an attractive proposition for me.” Louise is passionate about the retail/ FMCG sector and its position in the hearts and homes of consumers. So what is it about the the cut and thrust of this dynamic sector that grips her? “Retail is something that people interact with every single day – from suppliers to shoppers. As a sector to work in, its appeal is driven by its sheer relevance to millions of people,” she answers. “People don’t want to have to choose between price and quality. That is something we are very focused on. “From a marketing perspective, it is
important that we navigate a market that is fiercely competitive and fast-paced. Our role is to stand out with a clear, authentic voice. That’s where ‘It’s Not Complicated’ came from; a clear, strategic vision for us as a business, grounded not only in articulating our marketing position but fundamentally linked to the business’ overarching strategic priorities.” Fast-moving retail brands It’s not just the consumer goods that are fast-moving when it comes to FMCG, however. Ours is also an industry that changes and adapts as fast as the brands
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Retail News Interview on its shelves. What challenges does this bring to a marketing role? “Operating within an industry that evolves at such a rapid pace forces you to remain forward-looking, anticipating where the next wave of innovation will emerge and analysing its implications for your brand,” Louise insists. “In a sector as broad as retail, innovation can come from any direction; particularly for me and my role, this could mean adapting to shifting consumer tastes or a desire for new experiences, emerging social and digital technologies, or changes in how media and messages are consumed. “As a marketer, and as a leader in the business, they are things that I need to monitor, track, and lead on. Today’s fragmented media landscape, driven by AI-powered search, shifting social media dynamics, and dual-screen consumption, has fundamentally transformed how consumers discover and interact with brands. As marketers, our objective is to identify what customers need today, anticipate what will matter to them
tomorrow, and execute strategies to deliver that value, all while remaining fiercely true to our core business DNA.” ‘It’s Not Complicated’ Earlier this year, Aldi launched their high profile new brand platform, with the ‘Aldi. It’s Not Complicated’ strapline. Why did Louise and her team decide the time was right for a change of strategy? “While ‘It’s Not Complicated’ represents a fresh creative direction, in many ways it isn’t a departure at all – it is about Aldi doubling down on what we do best: simplifying operations, making life easier for our customers, and delivering the best possible value without ever compromising on quality,” she says. “It’s about getting back to our core principles and leading the business forward. “One of the trends we have clearly seen in recent years is a growing sense of consumer fatigue about the various ‘hoops’ shoppers are increasingly forced to jump through to access advertised deals, from managing multiple loyalty apps, to complex
points systems, to buying more than you need to unlock a discount. We felt it was the perfect moment to remind the market of Aldi's straightforward approach: simply everyday low prices and top quality for everyone.” Louise elaborates: “Because the retail market is so cluttered, our goal was to inject absolute clarity into Aldi’s tone of voice and reinforce what people associate with our brand. This platform is designed to strip away the noise and anchor our messaging back to our core principles.” She describes the campaign message as “a return to our discounter DNA, with a clear focus on cost leadership, consistency, and simplicity. In a world where others are making things more complicated, we’re choosing to do the opposite: helping make a good life affordable for everyone, in a way that’s straightforward and easy to understand.” Aldi Ireland partnered with creative agency Pablo to deliver the brand platform in a way that would get noticed and get talked about: “We’re in a highly competitive
The ‘Aldi. It’s Not Complicated.’ brand strategy has indulged in some cheeky and disruptive advertising and marketing activity.
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Retail News Interview category; we’re not going to stand out by behaving like everyone else. The campaign needs to earn attention beyond media spend; it needs to engage, entertain and get talked about and that’s only going to happen if we create work that’s surprising and different.” More than a marketing campaign Louise insists that what makes the new brand platform different to what went before for Aldi is that it is “far more than a marketing campaign. It’s actually who we are and how we work.” She continues, “It’s not just a tagline that we put on ads or use in our leaflets; it’s a true reflection of the ethos of the Aldi business, in everything we do. It serves as an ongoing internal benchmark, challenging us to eliminate unnecessary friction for our customers, keep our internal processes lean, and remain transparent and straightforward in everything we say and do. To keep things simple – it’s not complicated.” The process began by collaborating closely with the team at Pablo, “interrogating what sits at the very heart of the brand, why that’s important and how it translates into experiences that enhance people’s lives”, she reveals. “All of this insight and understanding fed into the development of the Aldi point-of-view, our belief that the good life doesn’t have to be complicated, and our mission to make the good life affordable to everyone. This belief sits at the heart of our brand platform and filters through both our brand comms and our brand behaviour, informing not just what we say, but what we do. This holistic approach to brand building enables us to develop a brand presence that has both clarity and meaning, with the ability to flex across touch points and show up in culturally relevant ways.” Alignment across the entire business It sounds simple, but Louise stresses that because this underpins their entire business model, success required total alignment across all internal Aldi teams and external agency partners. “We invested significant time ensuring that every single touchpoint, from our TV ads, out-of-home (OOH) billboards, our digital advertising, social presence, creator partnerships to our in-store signage feels like it's distinctively Aldi. But we don’t limit ourselves to traditional channels. Showing up at unexpected but relevant moments is part of our fame-driving strategy; for example, with our pop-up flower stand at the Aviva Stadium for IRFU fans on
Aldi’s new brand strategy is “more than just a marketing campaign.” Valentine’s Day or surfacing a slightly controversial point of view to drive new and interesting conversations, e.g. our ‘every mother has a favourite child’ campaign at Mother’s Day. Finding new and interesting ways for our brand to show up and be part of contemporary culture - going beyond what’s expected.” Louise notes that a key concern is ensuring that the customer remains front and centre every step of the way, “making sure our messaging and tone is relevant and resonates with their experiences, perceptions and expectations.” To this end, research and regular consumer check-ins are important at every stage along the journey: “Customers are at the heart of everything we do, and we always want to have their voice in the room when developing the work.”
Irish consumers embrace the disruption So far the reaction to the campaign has been “exceptionally positive,” she recounts: “Both the industry and consumers recognise the positioning as authentically Aldi – it is disruptive, humorous, and possesses a distinctly Irish wit.” The campaign has landed well with Irish consumers, with strong levels of recall, recognition and attribution to Aldi. Specifically looking at their tinned tomato ad, for example, which tells the story of Aldi believing that good quality food doesn’t need to be expensive, their research shows a high level of likeability and that people associated Aldi with offering quality and value. “We’ve also seen the ads deliver a boost in sentiment, with a high number of people also feeling more positive about Aldi in general after seeing the ads,” Louise reveals. Some of their marketing moves could be
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Retail News Interview called ‘cheeky’, as Aldi use the campaign to poke a little fun at some competitors. This is something that “absolutely” resonates with consumers, according to Louise. “Consumers appreciate brands that are confident, playful, and willing to challenge the status quo, and disruption is part of Aldi's DNA,” she smiles. “Throughout the campaign, we’ve highlighted things such as the high prices offered by other retailers or about supermarkets who incorporate elaborate baristas and cheesemongers.” She acknowledges, however, that the really important thing is that they can then back it up: “It’s all well and good saying those things, but we have to deliver through making sure that our prices are the best, that the Aldi quality offering is the best, and that we keep things simple and uncomplicated.” Having already released three TV ads and a host of OOH posters, Louise is coy about what else we can expect in the months ahead. “I won't give away any spoilers, but we have a robust pipeline of activity scheduled over the coming months across all of our communications channels, including television, out-of-home, print, radio, social, PR and influencer campaign partnerships,” she smiles. “This is a long-term brand platform rather than a transient, one-off campaign. It is a fundamental part of the strategic direction of the business and will continue to sit at the heart of our commercial and marketing strategy moving forward.” Evaluating campaign effectiveness Given the fact that this is a long-term strategy, when will the Aldi Ireland team be able to categorically judge its effectiveness and whether it has achieved the cutthrough it aims for? “It’s going to be a continuous process to know how successful it’s been,” Louise admits. “We measure performance directly against our core strategic objectives: Is it driving positive brand sentiment? Is it translating into growth? And is it effectively streamlining how we communicate across the business? “As a business, we track these metrics in real time. Because ‘It’s Not Complicated’ is integrated into our broader business strategy, it doesn't have a fixed ‘end date’ where we pause to evaluate. We will continue to rigorously monitor performance across media reach, digital engagement, brand health trackers, customer acquisition metrics, and overall sales data.” Ultimately, ‘It’s Not Complicated.’ will be judged by its success in improving the supermarket’s bottom line, she admits:
“It’s about growing the business, increasing shopper numbers, and generating higher sales. To do that, it’s about driving brand awareness and understanding, ensuring consumers instantly connect Aldi with simplicity, uncompromised value, and premium quality. That’s always been the core of the Aldi business model and this platform is about reminding people of that.” Louise adds, however, that the campaign also acts as an internal guide to lead the business: “Simplicity and value are our heritage, so it gives us that guide
This is not just a tagline that we put on ads or use in our leaflets; it’s a true reflection of the ethos of the Aldi business, in everything we do. It serves as an ongoing internal benchmark, challenging us to eliminate unnecessary friction for our customers, keep our internal processes lean, and remain transparent and straightforward in everything we say and do. To keep things simple – it’s not complicated.
to relentlessly focus on getting those fundamentals right across every part of the organisation.”
Leading from the front We wondered if Louise had any idea when she graduated from university that she would one day lead the marketing team of one of the country’s best-known supermarket brands? "The dynamism and relevance of the retail sector has always fascinated me,” she admits. “Leading the marketing and communications function here at Aldi, I get to design and deliver the strategic direction of such an iconic and recognisable brand. My leadership role extends beyond commercial campaigns like 'It’s Not Complicated,' and into all aspects of marketing and communications functions. Through that, I also get to help the business drive meaningful social impact – such as our sustained partnership with Barnardos and our longstanding relationship with the IRFU, as well as continuing to communicate Aldi’s core commitments to value, quality and Irish provenance. Our work, the number of suppliers we work with, and our major partnerships all reflect the scale and reach of the Aldi brand in Ireland.” Finally, given her vast experience and massive success in the industry, we wondered what advice Louise would give to any new marketing graduates considering a career in the FMCG/grocery industry? “Firstly, whether you are managing a brand or entering an organisation, ensure your marketing remains authentic to the core business DNA,” she stresses. “Know what challenges and opportunities face your business. You need to be able to clearly articulate who you are as a brand and what you stand for, and do it in a way that customers will genuinely find compelling. “The most impactful marketing is never built on hollow taglines. Success in this industry relies on successfully marrying data-driven insights with bold creativity to deliver measurable business results,” she continues. “Be agile and cultivate a mindset that embraces rapid change. As we’ve discussed, the grocery retail sector moves incredibly fast, which means you have to constantly adapt to new technologies and shifting consumer habits. “Finally, be curious. Always look at international trends, emerging media platforms, and shifting consumer behaviours,” she concludes. “As a business leader, you need to understand what’s happening today, what’s coming tomorrow and what that means for the business and people you lead.”
26|Retail News|July / August 2026|www.retailnews.ie
EV Charging: ePower
The ePower of partnership Retailers can be part of Ireland’s EV charging rollout through strategic partnership with ePower. EPOWER are continuing to expand Ireland's public EV charging network through partnerships with leading retail and property owners, helping businesses attract more visitors, increase customer dwell times, and strengthen their sustainability credentials. Since entering the public charging market in 2019, ePower have grown into one of Ireland's largest Irish-owned EV charging operators. The company now manages a rapidly expanding national network, serving hundreds of thousands of charging sessions annually and supporting Ireland's transition to electric mobility. As electric vehicle adoption continues to increase across Ireland, demand for convenient and reliable charging infrastructure is growing alongside it. For retailers, shopping centres and commercial property owners, EV charging presents a significant opportunity to attract new customers, increase time spent on-site, and generate additional revenue from underutilised parking assets. One of ePower's flagship partnerships is with Lanthorn, the property asset management company responsible for approximately €16 billion in property assets across Ireland. Together, the companies are delivering EV charging infrastructure at more than 20 retail destinations nationwide, including locations in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway, Athlone, Mullingar, Maynooth, Portlaoise and Kilkenny.
A partnership-led approach According to Brendan Crowley, Public Charging Director at ePower, every successful EV charging project starts with understanding the needs of the site owner: "The first conversation is always about the business itself. Every location is different and we work closely with our partners to understand customer behaviour, parking patterns, power availability, and future growth plans, before recommending a charging solution. Our objective is to ensure businesses make informed decisions that deliver long-term value.” ePower provide a range of charging solutions, from destination chargers that encourage customers to shop, dine or spend time on-site while charging, to high-power rapid charging hubs designed to serve drivers needing a quick top-up. The company has recently announced plans to install 200 public chargers across all four Dublin Local Authorities, a national first that demonstrates the scale of their growth ambitions. Alongside this, ePower continue to expand their network through partnerships with retailers, local authorities, and commercial property owners nationwide. “The market is moving quickly and businesses that invest early are already seeing the benefits,” says Crowley. “Whether a retailer wants ePower to fund the infrastructure or wishes to invest directly themselves, we have flexible
Pictured are (l-r): Matthew Sealy, IEVA Chairperson, and Chris Hall, ePower Project Manager.
partnership models that can support both approaches.” Delivering commercial and sustainability benefits Beyond supporting Ireland's climate objectives, EV charging infrastructure is increasingly becoming a commercial necessity. Research consistently shows that EV drivers favour destinations where they can charge while shopping, dining or working, with many spending longer on-site than traditional visitors. For retailers and property owners, charging infrastructure can help futureproof assets, attract environmentally conscious consumers, and contribute meaningfully towards ESG and sustainability targets. As EV adoption continues to accelerate, businesses that provide charging facilities today are positioning themselves to capture growing consumer demand tomorrow. “Our growth has been built on long-term partnerships and customer satisfaction,” concludes Crowley. “We focus on delivering charging infrastructure that works commercially for our partners, while helping Ireland transition to cleaner transport. The best place to start is with a conversation about what is right for your business.”
FOR HOME, BUSINESS, AND THE PUBLIC Call: 01-9029800 Email: info@epower.ie www.epower.ie
WE’RE BUILDING THE NETWORK
28|Retail News|July / August 2026|www.retailnews.ie
On the Vine
Pure Island launches in Ireland integrity to justify its place as a premium option.” One of NZ’s most respected winemakers The wines are made by Eveline Fraser, one of New Zealand’s most respected winemakers, previous Head Winemaker at Cloudy Bay. “Eveline is one of Marlborough’s most respected winemakers,” explains Fleur McCree, co-owner, Pure Island Wines and Vinultra. “She has crafted 18 vintages with Vinultra and brings extraordinary precision, purity, and aromatic expression to Pure Island. Her understanding of the Southern Valleys is exceptional. She elevates the wine from excellent to outstanding and she’s a joy to work with.”
Pure Island is a new premium, sustainable Marlborough wine brand, launching exclusively in Dunnes Stores. PURE Island, a boutique, sustainability led wine brand crafted on a family owned estate in Marlborough’s Southern Valleys, launched exclusively with Dunnes Stores on July 8. Pure Island brings a fresh, authentic New Zealand wine experience to Irish consumers, its premium positioning built on attributes increasingly rare in Marlborough: • Estate grown fruit from the family’s own Southern Valleys vineyard. • Southern Valleys terroir delivering concentrated, mineral driven, vibrant wines. • Artisanal production, low cropping and quality practices, crafted from bud to bottle. • Family ownership, ensuring long term legacy, stewardship and quality over volume. • Sustainably accredited practices focused on soil health, biodiversity, and low impact vineyard management. These elements underpin Pure Island’s premium price point and meet growing demand for wines with authenticity, transparency, and environmental integrity. Sustainability that’s measurable Pure Island’s environmental commitments are backed by audited, quantifiable progress, including: • Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand accreditation established 30 years ago. • 28% lower CO2 emissions in grape
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growing vs. the NZ national average and 18% lower than the Marlborough average. 405g lightweight bottles, a 45% reduction in glass weight since Vinultra’s first vintage. Kraft based cartons with minimal white ink for improved recyclability. Inner free cartons, reducing material use and overall weight. Global shipping ten times more carbon efficient than trucking half the equivalent volume within Europe.
Aligned with Findlater’s ‘Give Wine a Future’ initiative Pure Island supports Findlater’s research, which highlights that the biggest carbon impacts often occur beyond the vineyard: in water, energy, packaging, and transport. The findings reinforced that consumers want sustainable and ethical wines, but many are unsure what those claims truly mean, and are looking for brands that make it clear, credible, and easy to understand. “Findlater is delighted to partner with Pure Island to offer a premium sustainable wine that aligns with what consumers tell us they want,” noted Michelle O’Sullivan, Sales & Marketing Director at Findlater & Co. “Our Give Wine a Future research shows people value sustainability but need it to be clearer and more meaningful. Pure Island delivers exactly that — a genuinely sustainable choice with the quality and
A brand with conscience Pure Island believes in legacy, supporting conservation efforts that protect New Zealand’s endangered wildlife. One of its key partnerships is with the NZ Nature Fund, including work to help save the at risk Pukupuku Kiwi, the smallest bird in the kiwi family, with only nine left in the South Island. Here in Ireland, Pure Island have partnered with the Grace O’Malley Foundation, which helps elderly people remain in their homes with dignity. “Community matters deeply to us, and Ireland shares that same spirit of care and connection,” notes Fleur. In-store launch Pure Island will feature on dedicated free standing display units with bespoke recipes to pair perfectly with the wine. The label, showcasing its striking Nikau palm design, brings a breath of fresh air to engage shoppers and create an interactive in-store experience. To celebrate the launch, Pure Island Sauvignon Blanc will be available at a promotional price of €13.50. “Ireland and New Zealand share a natural affinity,” sums up Fleur. “Pure Island brings a piece of our island to yours.” For more information, visit www.pureislandwine.com.
P U R E I S L A N DW I N E .CO M @ P U R E I S L A N DW I N E
W O N s LE e B n A n s IL u re A t D to AV a S
30|Retail News|July / August 2026|www.retailnews.ie
On the Vine: Ireland’s Top Wines
Best cellars
Jean Smullen profiles Ireland’s top selling wine brands. THIS year, the annual Retail News Top Wine Brands feature looks at the top selling wine brands on the Irish market on an MAT basis for the last year. Our verified figures are for volume sales in the off trade for the 12-month period March 2025 to March 2026. The brands listed below continue to perform well on this market. Other key brands just outside the Top 5 showing strong volume growth include Villa Maria, [yellow tail], and Oyster Bay. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Viña Santa Rita Casillero de Diabolo McGuigan Barefoot (E&J Gallo) Dadá (Fincas las Moras)
Santa Rita Estates (Bibendum Wines) Ireland’s favourite wine brand, Santa Rita 120 delivers excellent value for money and outstanding quality. As the number one selling wine brand on the Irish market, for over a decade, the brand continues to go from strength to strength. In the last year,
its strong volume growth meant that Santa Rita 120 retained its number one position as the bestselling wine brand on the Irish market for the 12th year in a row. This summer, Santa Rita is set to roll out a major activation for the 120 range. The campaign runs through to September and is designed to drive retail visibility and shopper engagement during this key trading period. The promotion will include outdoor advertising, gondola end placements, and on-bottle neck collars across the core SKUs. A consumer competition offering Santa Rita 120 the chance to win the has been the ‘Santa Rita 120 Hours best selling wine Experience’ with a brand in Ireland ‘Win a Trip to Chile’ for the 12th year competition aims to in a row.
strengthen the brand's connection with the Irish consumer by encouraging participation. The promotion will highlight the Santa Rita 120 Pinot Grigio, positioned as a fresh, accessible everyday white, and the Early Harvest Sauvignon Blanc, expected to be among the first 2026 vintage wines to reach the Irish market. The aim is to highlight the consumer preference for early-release and fresher styles of wines. The Santa Rita Limited Release Rosé will also feature strongly, to capitalise on the Sustainability continued momentum remains central for rosé sales, to the long-term particularly during the strategy of Santa summer months. Rita Estates for all Sustainability their key brands, remains central to the including Carmen long-term strategy of from Chile.
120SANTARITAIRL
120SANTARITA.COM
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On the Vine: Ireland’s Top Wines Santa Rita Estates for all their key brands, including Santa Rita and Carmen from Chile, and Doña Paula from Argentina. Continued investment in responsible vineyard management, water stewardship, lightweight packaging and community engagement ensures that environmental and social responsibility underpin every stage of production. Malbado (Grace Campbell Wines) Cristobal Undurraga, Director of Wine at Doña Paula and Aluvia vineyards, was in Dublin recently to present a selection of wines from Aluvia and Malbado at a tasting lunch. The event was to launch their new Gualtallary Chardonnay from the Malbado range. Gualtallary is considered one of the best regions of Argentina for the production of highquality wines and has the highest altitude of all the Doña Paula vineyards, 1,350 metres above sea level. The Malbado Malbec was originally The 2025 launched three years Malbado ago and since then Chardonnay is has gained a strong now available following. The name in Ireland. “Malbado” plays on the Spanish word malvado (“the evil one”); however, the wine itself is far from sinister. The 2023 Malbado Malbec, with its silky elegance, pure blueberry and plum fruit, and mineral nuances, was the Winner of Best New World Red Under €20 at the 2025/26 Irish Wine Show Star Awards. The 2025 Malbado Chardonnay is now available in Ireland. I really liked the creamy notes and the wood ageing on this wine. It was elegant with lots of ripe tropical fruit and sweet vanilla flavours. It will be available in independent off licences and thanks to the quality of the wine, is bound to gain a substantial following. Casillero del Diablo (Concha y Toro) Casillero del Diablo is Concha y Toro’s flagship brand and Concha y Toro manage their brand directly on this market. Their brand identity centres around the name of
the wine, which translates as ‘The Devil’s Cellar’. The story’s premise centres on the winery’s original 19th century founder, Don Melchor who, when he discovered his finest Concha y Toro wines were going missing, spread the word that the devil lived in his cellar, as a deterrent to the would-be thieves. This back story has helped to create a strong identity for the brand, which features an extensive entry level range of varietal wines, as In Ireland, all McGuigan Black Label red varietals are well as the more premium moving to lightweight 300g bottles, reducing bottle Diablo Red, and the newer weight by 60g each. Diablo Golden Chardonnay, and Diablo Crystal Sauvignon. Hunter Valley. Since then, the family have This summer, look out for the Casillero been to the fore of winemaking in Australia. del Diablo Summer Whites poster Neil McGuigan is the fourth generation of campaign, featuring on prominent his family to make wine. advertising sites across Dublin. The McGuigan Black Label has unveiled a campaign will promote their very bold new look, combining modern design popular Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay with the iconic taste that has made the and Pinot Grigio wines. The campaign range a favourite around the world. The will also feature an interactive poster refreshed packaging delivers stronger shelf on temperature-activated sites in key standout, clearer varietal cues and the locations close to key retailers, Tesco and same trusted quality consumers know and SuperValu. These sites will feature live, the love. temperature for that day, accompanied by a Brighter colours, eye-catching labels fun and relevant strapline. and colour-matched caps make it easier for This summer also sees the launch of the shoppers to identify their favourite wines brand-new Rosé from Casillero del Diablo. in today's busy wine aisles. The redesign The launch of their new Casillero del Diablo also creates a consistent look across key Rosé will be boosted by an on-going paid global markets, including Australia, the UK, social media campaign. Asia and Canada, reinforcing McGuigan's Finally, from September, Casillero position as a trusted international wine del Diablo will have a brand-new Global brand, while making varietals instantly Ambassador, British actor Orlando Bloom, recognisable wherever consumers shop. who will star in the new international advertising campaign about the aforementioned legend of ‘The Devil’s Cellar’. Speaking at the launch Sebastián Aguirre, Global Marketing Director at Casillero del Diablo, said, “For Casillero del Diablo, the announcement of Orlando Bloom as global spokesperson and star of our new campaign is a fresh milestone in the brand’s history. He is a figure of international reach, with a substantial career, embodying values deeply aligned with our DNA: sophistication, character, authenticity and a truly global outlook.” McGuigan (Barry & Fitzwilliam) The McGuigan wine range continues to perform well and remains the top-selling Australian wine brand on the Irish market. The McGuigan family, who have strong Irish links, started wine-making in 1869 in the
McGuigan Black Label has unveiled a bold new look, combining modern design with the iconic taste that has made the range a favourite around the world.
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TASTE IT. LOVE IT.
© 2026 Barefoot Cellars, Modesto, CA. All Rights Reserved.
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On the Vine: Ireland’s Top Wines In Ireland, all McGuigan Black Label red varietals, alongside Rosé and Pinot Grigio are moving to lightweight 300g bottles, reducing bottle weight by 60g each. The change cuts glass usage and transport emissions, while delivering Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) savings. These savings have been reinvested in premium packaging upgrades, including higher-quality labels and individual coloured caps, giving the range a more premium appearance. McGuigan Wines Marketing Manager Oliver Hoey said the redesign reflects the quality inside every bottle, while maintaining the brand's reputation for outstanding value: “McGuigan remains committed to delivering trusted quality and craftsmanship at an accessible everyday price. More than 100 bottles of McGuigan are sold every minute worldwide, reflecting the brand's enduring appeal. The refreshed label is a natural evolution; it's brighter, clearer and easier to find on shelf, while keeping the approachable taste that has made Black Label a household favourite.” The brand has also launched its new creative platform, 'When You Know', celebrating confidence without complexity. Inspired by McGuigan's Australian heritage, the campaign embraces authenticity, approachability and everyday enjoyment with playful lines including ‘Tasting notes: bloody delicious’ and ‘New suit. Same legend.’ Barefoot (Comans Beverages) Barefoot is the number one brand from the USA on the Irish market and is part of the Gallo stable. It is distributed in Ireland by Coman’s Beverages, who work closely with Barefoot’s country manager Philip Lynch. This summer, elevate your summer gatherings with friends by making Barefoot your essential go-to wine. Barefoot Wine offers a delicious, award-winning selection perfect for any occasion. Whether your customers are enjoying quick, casual bites, hosting a summer feast, or firing up the grill for a thrilling summer barbecue, Barefoot wine are the perfect partner. The range includes Barefoot Merlot, Pinot Grigio, White Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc, Moscato, Pink Moscato, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Buttery Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio Rosé, and Barefoot Jammy Red. This Summer, Barefoot Wine is refreshing
serious; and created a wine that could be enjoyed by everyone from first-time wine drinkers to hard-core aficionados. Barefoot is the most awarded and number one wine brand in the US and was introduced to Ireland in 2009.The one thing the brand is serious about is making good wine and it has won over 2,000 awards for its range of wines worldwide. Staying true to its grassroots beginnings, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly gives back to local non-profit groups through charitable wine donations. Barefoot has also been an ally to the LGBT community for over 30 years! Dadá (Comans Beverages) This summer, the popular Dadá wine brand, produced by Fincas las Moras in Argentina, is introducing Barefoot, the top selling brand from the USA on a limited-edition label for its bestknown and extremely popular the Irish market. red wine, Dadá # 1. Inspired its core range with bold, eye-catching new by Dadaism, an avant-garde ‘anti-art’ packaging designed to deliver standout movement which emerged over 100 in the wine aisle, boosting shopper years ago and was known for rejecting engagement and rate of sale. The launch builds on Barefoot’s strong performance in the Irish wine market. The refreshed labels place Barefoot’s iconic footprint front and centre, brought to life through a more contemporary, colourful design that delivers stronger shelf impact and instant brand recognition. The addition of taste descriptors on the front labels will enable shoppers to quickly navigate the wine fixture and make confident purchase decisions. Barefoot Wine returned to Mother Pride 2026 this year with ‘Barefoot on The Lawn’, with the festival expanding to June 27 at the National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks. "We were absolutely thrilled to return to the Mother Pride 2026 this year and to bring 'Barefoot on the Lawn' to the Dublin Pride scene. With the festival expanding to two days, it was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate love and diversity in such an iconic setting," said Philip Lynch, Barefoot Country Manager. "Barefoot has always championed inclusivity, creating fun and memorable moments as a proud ally of the LGBTQ+ community since 1988. Our bespoke bar and stage is our way of Dadá is one of the most popular celebrating the incredible community that Argentinean wine brands in Ireland. Mother brings together.” Barefoot Wine & Bubbly convention, the labels are designed started up in California to celebrate the spirit of the Dadaism in the 1960s. Its founders movement. believed that wine should The wine is still the same and the new be more fun and less
DADÁ Caramel Drink Responsibly
Rich and indulgent. Decadent caramel with hints of vanilla, toffee, cocoa and touch of warming spice.
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On the Vine: Ireland’s Top Wines labels only feature on the much-loved Dadá # 1 (RRP €11.99), the classic blend of Malbec and Bonarda, still one of the most popular wines on the Irish market for Irish red wine drinkers. The Dadá range includes Dadá #2 Merlot (RRP €12.99), Dadá # 3 Art Wine, a Cabernet/Shiraz blend (RRP €13), Dadá # 8 Chocolate Blend (RRP €12.99), and Dadá # 9 Caramel (RRP €12.99). For white drinkers, they have Dadá White Malbec (RRP €12.99) and Dadá Sauvignon Blanc (RRP €10.99). The Dadá Limited Edition # 1 with the special labels is available since May 2026 with three distinctive label designs, each representing a different ‘universe’. The labels are expressive and fun, so why not encourage your customers to turn their summer table into something a little more extraordinary?
Villa Maria Rosé Sauvignon Blanc is a delicate and refreshing New Zealand Blush Rosé with lively flavours of passion fruit, cranberry, and raspberry.
Villa Maria’s bold new look features a more prominent red chevron with a distinctive die-cut finish for greater shelf impact.
producer in the world to adopt screw caps across its entire range and is a founding member of Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand. Launching with the 2025 vintage across the flagship Private Bin and Cellar Selection ranges, the updated packaging features a more prominent red chevron with a distinctive die-cut finish for greater shelf impact. A brighter, textured background enhances the premium feel, while a larger ‘New Zealand’ callout reinforces the brand's origin. “In a highly competitive category where many brands are competing for attention, we have to work harder to stand out and be easy for shoppers to find on-shelf,” said Sarah Szegota, General Manager of Marketing and Communications at Indevin Group. “We see this new label as a celebration of where we've come from and where we're going. Villa Maria has enjoyed a record year in the UK, Ireland, China, South Korea and Canada, and this evolution helps us show up more boldly on-shelf while appealing to both loyal fans and new consumers.” The redesign was developed with global design agency Design Bridge and tested extensively with consumers across key international markets. Research showed
the new packaging outperformed the previous design, delivering stronger appeal, higher purchase intent and a more premium perception. Supporting Villa Maria's sustainability commitments, the updated range will also transition to a lighter 390g glass bottle, reducing packaging weight while maintaining quality.
Villa Maria (Barry & Fitzwilliam)
Villa Maria has unveiled a striking new evolution of its iconic label, marking a fresh chapter for one of New Zealand's most celebrated wine brands. Villa Maria has unveiled a striking new evolution of its iconic label, marking a fresh chapter for one of New Zealand's most celebrated wine brands. The redesign honours more than 60 years of awardwinning winemaking, while positioning the brand for the future. For a brand with a loyal global following, the refreshed look is a bold move. But innovation has long been part of Villa Maria's DNA. The winery was the first major
[yellow tail] (Bibendum Ireland) The brand named after Australia’s YellowFooted Rock Wallaby has created a huge niche for itself since it was founded 23 years ago. In 2005, [yellow tail] became the first varietal wine to sell one million cases in a single year. [yellow tail] was first launched on the Irish market in 2007 and the top [yellow tail] sku on this market is the [yellow tail] Sauvignon Blanc. Other wines in the range include the [yellow tail] Pinot Grigio, Shiraz, Chardonnay, and Merlot, as well as the [yellow tail] Jammy Red Roo, a red wine blend made from Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. [yellow tail] is the second biggest selling Australian brand after McGuigan, with daily sales of 6,000 bottles on the Irish market, and is actually Australia’s number one wine brand on a global basis. This summer, [yellow tail] will be
NEW LOOK
Vibrant, Zesty & Delicious NEW ZEALAND SAUVIGNON BLANC
DISTRIBUTED BY
DISTRIBUTED BY
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On the Vine: Ireland’s Top Wines James Barnett as their new Business Manager for Ireland.
[yellow tail] has really resonated with Irish wine consumers. running a major in-store market activation in most major retailers nationwide, including store takeovers, sampling activities and secondary displays to create visual awareness and offer tasting opportunities for the customer to introduce them to the varietal range.
[yellow tail] Pinot Grigio and Shiraz, two of the successful varietals in the hugely popular Australian range.
Oyster Bay (Delegat Wine Estate) The philosophy of Oyster Bay New Zealand is to produce fine, distinctively regional wines that are elegant and assertive, with glorious fruit flavours; wines that drink well within a year or two of the vintages, yet possess the balance of structure to reward keeping. Oyster Bay New Zealand is owned by Delegat Limited, who for 60 years have been one of New Zealand's largest family-owned wine companies. The popularity of New Zealand wines continues unabated and Oyster Bay is the second most popular New Zealand wine brand on the Irish market. The Oyster Bay range includes Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and two sparkling wines: the Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvée Rosé is a blend of 20% Pinot Noir and 80% Chardonnay, while Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvée is made from 100% Chardonnay (both RRP €1822). Both are worth stocking, good examples of good quality new world fizz. Delegat Wine Estates market and distribute the wines directly in Ireland and have just appointed
i-heart (Freixenet Copestick) i-heart have always been unique in their approach; the range provides great examples of the most popular wine varieties from around the world. Using a consumer first strategy has always been paramount and the aim of the wine-making team at i-heart has always been to make wine more accessible, through their easy drinking wine styles. After 10 years of trading with phenomenal growth and success in the UK, the brand launched in Ireland in 2016 with the i-heart Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Shortly after launch, it was apparent there was a need for a sparkling option and i-heart Frizzante Prosecco was launched. Sales of the i-heart range reached two million bottles in the Republic of Ireland by 2020. i-heart is now widely represented in many retail outlets in Ireland. Continuing their innovative approach this summer, Freixenet Copestick are launching a canned wine range, a bold, bubbly range landing just in time for summer season. The new single-serve cans tap into growing demand for convenience, moderation and drink-anywhere moments. Whether it’s a picnic in the park, a festival field, a beach day or a train journey with friends, i-heart is making wine more portable than ever. The range features two sparkling styles: a crisp and lively Pinot Grigio Fizz and a vibrant Pinot Grigio Pink Fizz, both delivering refreshing flavour in 200ml serve (RRP €3-3.50). Familia Torres (Findlater & Co.) Familia Torres, part of the global B Corp community, have been at the heart of sustainability and climate action for over 30 years, long before it became topical or fashionable Miguel Torres Senior has led the way in this field, with the family pioneering regenerative agriculture, the replanting of ancestral and native varieties, renewable energy generation, and carbon capture initiatives. Familia Torres have now joined the global B Corp community, achieving certification with a score of 121.3 points, well above the minimum required score of 80. This recognises that all Familia Torres wineries in Spain and Chile meet high sustainability standards and further positions the company as a benchmark for positive impact within the wine sector. The winery has set a target to become carbon
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On the Vine: Ireland’s Top Wines neutral through the Race to Zero campaign by 2050 and is well on its way to achieving this, with a target of a 50% total carbon reduction by 2030. By joining the global B Corp community, Familia Torres have become part of a network of more than 10,500 companies using business as a force for positive change. As co-founders of International Wineries for Climate Action, Familia Torres continue to lead the way in making the wine industry more accountable on climate change, acting not only as experts but also as educators on The Torres family sustainability and have been at climate action. the heart of Familia Torres are sustainability for based in Penedès over 30 years, and in Catalonia and recently joined the have vineyards B Corp community. in California and Chile. All of their estates are sustainably managed and organically farmed, with regenerative agriculture practices also underway. Findlater & Co. have just launched the new Locos range from Familia Torres in Ireland, bringing a fresh and contemporary Spanish wine range to the Irish market. Familia Torres continue to be recognised as one of the world’s most admired wine brands by Drinks International. Cono Sur Bicicleta (Findlater & Co.) Cono Sur was founded in Chile in 1993 and has quickly become recognised for its commitment to quality, innovation and sustainability. Present in seven of Chile’s most important wine valleys, Cono Sur benefits from diverse microclimates, abundant sunlight, significant daily temperature variation, dry weather during the ripening season, and fresh Andean irrigation water, all contributing to the production of pure and expressive grapes.
is to bring the brand’s iconic bicycle symbol and sustainability message to life for Irish shoppers. The campaign, ‘Cono Sur Bicicleta: The Sustainable Way’, will highlight the brand’s commitment to quality, innovation and sustainability. 19 Crimes (Findlater & Co.) 19 Crimes celebrates Australia’s infamous origins and the stories of the convictsturned-colonists who were transported by prison ship after violating one of the original 19 crimes. The brand breaks free from traditional, stuffy wine conventions, inspiring consumers to push boundaries, challenge the status quo and embrace a more rebellious side of wine. Known as the rebel in wine, 19 Crimes combines bold storytelling, distinctive packaging and characterful wines to create a brand experience that stands out strongly on-shelf. Its augmented reality app also
Cono Sur Bicicleta will have a heavyweight campaign in-store later this summer, bringing the brand’s iconic bicycle symbol and sustainability message to life for Irish shoppers. Since its beginning, Cono Sur has been deeply committed to protecting the environment through natural vineyard management, organic production, and ISO certifications. The winery has always believed that high-quality wine production can work hand in hand with eco-friendly practices. This sustainable path has led Cono Sur to meet high standards in social performance, environmental care, transparency and corporate responsibility, granting the winery B Corp certification. These values are reflected in the Cono Sur Bicicleta label, with its iconic bicycle symbol first introduced in 2012 as a tribute to the vineyard workers who travel through the vineyards by bicycle every day. This summer, look out for the Cono Sur Bicicleta campaign launching in-store later this summer. The aim of the campaign
19 Crimes combines bold storytelling, distinctive packaging and characterful wines to create a brand experience that stands out strongly on-shelf. brings the characters on the labels to life, allowing consumers to hear their stories through their phone camera. This summer, during the World Cup, 19 Crimes’ ‘Serve the Red’ campaign took over Tesco and SuperValu with bold instore activation. The campaign targeted Gen Z and Millennial sports fans of legal drinking age to consider wine as an option during a typically beer-dominated occasion. By unofficially owning the red card as a rebellious symbol, 19 Crimes brought its bold and disruptive attitude to football culture.
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Event Management
Delivering value at industry events What to do when planning a business event, conference or product launch in Ireland targeted at an FMCG audience.
PLANNING and running a successful business event or conference in Ireland for a Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) audience requires much more than simply booking a venue and inviting delegates. The FMCG sector is fast-paced, highly competitive and relationship-driven, encompassing retailers, manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, technology providers and service partners. As a result, attendees expect events that are professionally organised, commercially relevant and capable of delivering practical insights alongside meaningful networking opportunities. Whether hosting a retailer summit, supplier conference, product launch, leadership forum or industry gathering, success lies in combining strategic planning with a deep understanding of the audience's needs. Some businesses opt to use external experts, like Hotel Solutions DMC, to organise their events, preferring to leave that level of detailed planning to those who do it every day. Whether you are engaging with an events management company or taking on the job internally, however, the
fundamentals remain the same if you want your event to be a success. Defining your goals The first and most important step is defining the purpose of the event. Every subsequent decision, from speaker selection to venue choice and marketing strategy, needs to support clear and measurable objectives. For example, you may wish to generate new business opportunities, to strengthen retailer relationships, to showcase innovation, to launch new products, to share new information or market intelligence, or simply to facilitate industry networking. Ensuring your goals are clearly defined is crucial to shape the event agenda and ensures resources are invested in areas that deliver the greatest impact. Equally important is understanding the audience, whether that is representatives from multiple supermarkets, discounters, symbol groups, suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, logistics providers, service providers or industry associations. Clearly identifying who you want to attend allows organisers to tailor content and networking
opportunities to your audience. Location is critical: getting the right venue is hugely important. Dublin remains the most popular destination for national conferences due to its accessibility, international airport, extensive accommodation options and world-class event facilities. Venues such as the Aviva Stadium, the Convention Centre, Croke Park and the RDS offer impressive conference infrastructure capable of accommodating large-scale business events. However, regional cities including Cork, Galway and Limerick provide excellent alternatives, while many organisations choose Athlone due to its central location. Locations outside the capital often deliver better value, unique delegate experiences, and opportunities to support regional economic development. Venue selection should extend beyond simply finding a space that accommodates attendees. Today’s FMCG professionals increasingly expect modern facilities, flexible layouts, and reliable technology. Key considerations should include accessibility, capacity, exhibition space, breakout rooms, parking, transport
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Event Management links, and sustainability credentials. Demonstration and exhibition space allows suppliers and technology providers to showcase products, services, and innovations. Having the right size of informal networking areas is also a key consideration; some of the most important and valuable business conversations occur outside actual conference sessions. Timing is another concern. You don’t want your event to clash with another major industry event, but equally important can be to avoid clashing with major sporting events, peak tourism periods or school holidays (including mid-term breaks), which can have a huge impact on accommodation costs and travel availability. You should also be cognisant of annual planning cycles for FMCG companies, whereby certain times of year may coincide with product launches, budgeting processes, or peak retail trading seasons, making attendance more difficult. Selecting a quieter period can improve participation rates and engagement levels, as well as proving potentially less expensive.
Opportunities like coffee breaks help to facilitate networking and relationship-building at events. Content is key When it comes to the event itself, ensuring the right content remains the single most important driver of delegate satisfaction. It costs time and (often) money to attend events, and busy FMCG professionals want a return on that time in terms of actionable insights rather than generic presentations. A compelling programme should balance strategic discussion with practical learning opportunities. Some current topics guaranteed to get attendees talking include the role of AI in FMCG, changing consumer behaviour, category management, retail innovation, omnichannel strategies, sustainability, shopper insights, supply chain resilience, coping with rising costs,
ESG initiatives, e-commerce, regulatory developments and packaging innovations. The most engaging event programmes typically combine keynote presentations with panel discussions, workshops, case studies and interactive sessions. Including both Irish and international perspectives can strengthen the event's appeal, helping attendees understand local market conditions, while gaining exposure to global trends and best practices. Sessions that address real-world challenges and provide practical solutions tend to resonate most strongly. The quality of the speakers is crucial. Potential presenters may include senior retailer leaders, economists, experts in consumer behaviour, industry consultants, category managers, technology specialists, industry association representatives, journalists and politicians. When evaluating speakers, organisers should consider not only their expertise but also their ability to communicate effectively and provide practical insights. Diversity of perspectives is equally important, particularly in sectors experiencing rapid transformation. Here, moderated panel discussions can prove particularly effective, allowing a cross section of stakeholders (for example, multiple and c-store retailers, suppliers and distributors) to consider and debate industry challenges and explore emerging opportunities, while encouraging audience participation. The networking effect Networking is a key part of any conference or event and should not be viewed as an afterthought. Delegates frequently attend industry events to strengthen existing connections and develop new business relationships. Opportunities like coffee breaks, networking lunches, evening receptions, roundtable discussions, evening dinners, all help facilitate this relationship-building. In fact, more structured networking activities often prove particularly valuable in introducing attendees to new contacts, instead of relying on informal conversations. Increasing numbers of events are sponsored, which can significantly help in terms of cost, while perhaps allowing you to add even more ‘oomph’ to your agenda. Sponsors are often looking for this kind of visibility amongst key decision makers in the FMCG business. Indeed, creating a kind of tiered sponsorship package allows organisers to maximise revenue while offering meaningful opportunities for engagement. These may include exhibition stands, speaking opportunities, branded
Le Pole Square: in the heart of Dublin NESTLED in the heart of historic Dublin 8, Le Pole Square has emerged as one of the city's most exciting lifestyle and hospitality destinations. Blending heritage with contemporary design, the vibrant quarter offers visitors an experience that combines wellness, dining, business and culture in one setting. Old Town Café provides the perfect setting to enjoy Cloud Picker coffee, fresh pastries and an all-day menu, while the Old Town Wine Bar offers an impressive wine selection and Mediterranean-inspired, small plates. Velvaere Spa, is a luxurious urban retreat, where guests can unwind over three floors including a Thermal Suite, with Hydropool, steam room, sauna, heated thermal loungers and experiential showers.
Le Pole Square is home to the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Dublin, the Royal Dublin Convention Centre, the Old Town Café and Wine Bar and Velvaere Spa. Adding to the square's versatility, is the impressive new stretch tent, creating a unique outdoor venue for seasonal events and corporate gatherings. Additionally, the destination is home to the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Dublin, offering stylish accommodation just moments from Dublin's most iconic attractions. Alongside it, the Dublin Royal Convention Centre has established itself as a premier location for conferences, exhibitions and international events. Together, these exceptional outlets have transformed Le Pole Square into a destination where business, leisure, wellness and hospitality come together, creating an exciting new landmark in the heart of Dublin 8. For more information, please email meetings.royal.dublin@radissonblu. com or visit radissonblu.com/royalhotel-dublin.
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_______ work. dine. unwind.
Your event. Your way. In a space that adapts to you. Our forward-thinking team bring our exceptional venue to life, working with you to align every detail to your vision and ensuring every moment is seamless and unforgettable. Set in stunning Killarney, we offer bespoke event solutions - from premium accommodation and exquisite cuisine to cutting-edge audiovisual support and dynamic networking opportunities - all under one roof.
Contact us: +353 (0)64 6671502 ann.shanahan@gleneaglegroup.ie gleneaglekillarney.ie
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Event Management networking lounges, digital promotion and/or sponsorship of key event activities. It’s important to note that successful sponsorship relationships are built on clear objectives and measurable return on investment, rather than simple brand exposure. Tech is your friend Technological advancements have made delivering a seamless event experience easier than ever. Registration platforms should be user-friendly, mobile-responsive and capable of capturing useful attendee information. You can even create a specific App for your event, providing speaker profiles, maps, messaging functions, networking tools and even live polling capabilities. Many events these days allow either all or part of the event to be streamed online to remote attendees, which is particularly useful for international participants – indeed, some recent events Retail News has attended included speakers and panel representatives who were not physically in the room yet still contributed hugely to the event’s success. Food and hospitality are always important, particularly for an FMCG audience who are familiar with the quality and provenance of locally produced food. High-quality catering contributes hugely to the overall experience: how many of us have felt let down by an event due to poor quality food and drink options? Details such as coffee quality, refreshment availability and efficient service can have a huge impact on attendee satisfaction. Sustainability is a key concern across all business categories, and event management is no exception. FMCG companies are increasingly committed to ESG objectives, and conferences should
Conrad Dublin unveils refurbished ballroom ON Earlsfort Terrace, opposite the National Concert Hall and a few steps from St Stephen's Green, Conrad Dublin has completed a refurbishment of its ballroom, reinforcing the hotel's position as a leading luxury venue for conferences, product launches and private events in the city centre. The hotel's purpose-built event spaces range from the newly refurbished ballroom, with The newly refurbished ballroom at Dublin’s capacity for up to 350 guests, Conrad Hotel, Earlsfort Terrace. to The Terrace, one of Dublin's most distinctive event settings, accommodating everything from quiet executive dinners to large-scale launches. Each space reflects the same philosophy that defines the hotel: hospitality built on intuitive service, an authentic sense of place, and an unhurried attention to detail. Dining is led by The Coburg, where modern Irish cuisine is served with warmth and elegance, alongside Lemuel's, the hotel's literary cocktail bar named after Lemuel Gulliver, a setting that lends itself naturally to memorable post-event hospitality. With 192 stylish guest rooms, dedicated event planners and a location that puts Dublin's best on the doorstep, Conrad Dublin gives business events the setting they deserve. For enquiries, email conraddublin_events@hilton.com or visit conraddublin.com. reflect that. Sourcing local produce, minimising food waste, replacing printed materials with digital alternatives; these are all practical ways to highlight the sustainability of your event. One of the most important things is to choose venues that have strong environmental credentials themselves. When things go wrong… Despite the best planning, things can and will still go wrong, from time to time.
Attracting the right calibre of speaker is vital for your event.
However, effective project management, including registration, comms, speaker management, catering, set-up, audiovisual production and, of course, contingency planning, is vital in ensuring, as much as is possible, a smooth event. This can be as simple and practical as ensuring the Wi-Fi is reliable throughout the venue, testing the audio and visual presentation systems, and being prepared for last-minute cancellations or adverse weather conditions. Engaging with attendees after the event can also be hugely valuable. This could mean making presentation materials and video recordings of speakers and sessions available online, or conducting a survey to ascertain what worked and, perhaps more importantly, what didn’t. The right event is one where you, as organiser, achieve your objectives, while attendees feel like they had the opportunity to learn, to connect and to grow their business. A winning combination of strategic planning, strong industry knowledge, excellent logistics and genuine hospitality ensures events that run smoothly, while strengthening relationships, encouraging collaboration and contributing positively to Ireland’s vibrant grocery/FMCG sector.
WHERE BUSINESS STAYS INSPIRED, IN THE HEART OF DUBLIN Elevate your next event at Conrad Dublin on Earlsfort Terrace, moments from St Stephen's Green and opposite the National Concert Hall. Named Ireland's Best MICE Hotel at the 2025 World MICE Awards, our five-star spaces connect worldly style with intuitive service — so every gathering becomes an experience. 10 Versatile Event Spaces • Conrad Ballroom for up to 350 Guests Four Flexible Suites & Two Executive Boardrooms Vibrant Networking Space at The Terrace for up to 200 Guests Dedicated In-House Event Planners • Built-In AV Exceptional Locally Sourced Catering Private Dining at The Coburg & Lemuel's EARLSFORT TERRACE, DUBLIN 2 +353 1 602 8900 · conraddublin_events@hilton.com conraddublin.com
MEETING & CONFERENCE SPACES THAT DELIVER Conference Facilities for up to 600 Delegates 8 Dedicated Meeting & Conference Spaces 132 Guest Bedrooms High-Speed Wi-Fi 400 Onsite Parking Spaces 4 EV Charging Points Onsite Leisure & Spa Facilities (056) 7760500 | EVENTS@NEWPARKHOTEL.COM
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Event Management
FBD Hotels & Resorts have you covered FBD Hotels & Resorts operate five distinct hotels throughout Leinster and the South-East, combining accessibility with unique settings for business events. FBD Hotels & Resorts have established themselves as one of Ireland's leading destinations for meetings, incentives, conferences, and events, offering an impressive collection of four-star hotels that combine inspiring locations with exceptional service and modern event facilities. With five distinctive Irish properties - Castleknock Hotel, Killashee Hotel, The Heritage, Faithlegg Hotel, and the newest addition to the portfolio, Grand Hotel Malahide - the group provides a diverse range of venues to suit everything from executive board meetings and incentive programmes to multi-day conferences. Five very distinct destinations Strategically located throughout Leinster and the South East, FBD Hotels & Resorts offer five distinctive destinations that combine excellent accessibility with unique settings for business events. All properties are within easy reach of Dublin Airport and Ireland's major motorway network, allowing delegates to travel with ease, while enjoying the tranquillity of countryside estates, coastal escapes, and vibrant suburban locations. Whether you are planning a leadership retreat in the picturesque countryside of Kildare or Laois, a meeting overlooking the Suir Estuary in Waterford, or an international event just minutes from Dublin Airport, FBD Hotels & Resorts offer inspiring venues for every occasion. Beyond the meeting room Beyond the meeting room, delegates can enhance their experience with championship golf courses, award-winning spas, beautiful outdoor spaces for team-building activities and exceptional dining, all complemented by attentive service and a commitment to delivering memorable experiences for every delegate. Supported by experienced events teams, tailored conference packages, and a commitment to personalised service, FBD Hotels & Resorts continue to strengthen their position within Ireland's business events sector, providing event planners with trusted venues where productive meetings are seamlessly combined with authentic Irish hospitality.
Five Venues.
One Seamless Experience. WWW.FBDHOTELS.COM
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Event Management: Mount Juliet Estate
Mount Juliet named in top luxury resorts The newly restored Mount Juliet Estate has been named among the UK & Ireland's best luxury resorts. JUST months after completing its landmark €8 million restoration of the Manor House, Mount Juliet Estate has been named the Fourth Best Resort in the UK and Ireland in the reader-voted Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2026, achieving an outstanding score of 96. The recognition follows a transformative investment that has carefully restored the heart of one of Ireland's most distinguished country estates. Designed to preserve the Manor's Georgian heritage while elevating every aspect of the luxury guest experience, the project balanced the meticulous restoration of original architectural features with discreet modern enhancements, including the introduction of air conditioning throughout the Manor and a range of carefully considered guest experience improvements. As part of the restoration, the Manor House bedrooms have been thoughtfully reimagined to reflect the Estate's unique identity. Rather than following traditional hotel room categories, each room has been individually named to celebrate
Each of the Manor House bedrooms have been thoughtfully reimagined to reflect the Estate's unique identity.
Mount Juliet Estate's rich history, drawing inspiration from figures connected to the Estate and its renowned equestrian heritage, allowing every room to quietly tell part of the Estate's story. The investment extended far beyond the bedrooms. Arrival spaces and shared areas have been enhanced to create a greater sense of occasion from the moment guests enter the Manor, while beautifully restored interiors, carefully curated furnishings and considered lighting create spaces that feel both elegant and welcoming. Throughout the house, the restoration has carefully balanced preserving the Estate's architectural integrity with introducing contemporary comforts, creating a more immersive and personal guest experience while ensuring the Manor remains the heart of the Estate for generations to come. A defining moment Voted for by more than 661,000 readers worldwide, the Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards are among the travel industry's most respected accolades, celebrating the hotels, resorts and travel experiences that leave the greatest impression on guests. Mount Juliet Estate's ranking is a significant international endorsement of the investment, validating its long-term commitment to preserving its heritage, while continuing to set the benchmark for luxury hospitality in Ireland. "To receive this recognition so soon after completing the restoration of our Manor House makes this a defining moment for everyone at Mount Juliet Estate,” noted Mark Dunne, General Manager of Mount Juliet Estate. “We are immensely proud of what our team has achieved together,
Mount Juliet Estate is home to the Michelin-starred Lady Helen restaurant. creating an experience that honours the Estate's remarkable heritage, while elevating every aspect of our guests' stay. To have that recognised by Travel + Leisure readers from around the world is incredibly rewarding and validates the significant investment we have made in the future of Mount Juliet Estate. This recognition gives us great confidence as we continue to build on our reputation as one of Ireland's leading luxury destinations and welcome guests to experience everything the Estate has to offer." One of Ireland’s premier luxury resorts Set within 500 acres of spectacular Kilkenny countryside, Mount Juliet Estate is one of Ireland's premier luxury resorts, offering world-class accommodation, championship golf, equestrian pursuits, spa experiences and exceptional dining. Home to the Michelin-starred Lady Helen restaurant, described by Travel + Leisure as "the crown jewel of Mount Juliet Estate's dining programme", the Estate continues to combine its rich heritage with exceptional hospitality, offering guests an experience where history, luxury and contemporary comfort come together in one unforgettable destination.
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Event Management: Hotel Solutions DMC
Taking the hassle out of event management Why clients continue to choose Hotel Solutions DMC for their accommodation, meetings, conferences and events.
IN today’s competitive travel and events landscape, clients expect far more than accommodation bookings alone; they want expertise, reliability, seamless organisation, exceptional value, and a personalised service they can trust. For over 24 years, Hotel Solutions DMC have been delivering exactly that, building long-standing relationships with corporate clients, travel professionals, conference organisers, and event planners who value experience, product knowledge, and outstanding customer care. Founded by Michelle Thornton, the company was built on a passion for meetings, conferences and events and a commitment to offering the highest possible level of customer service. Now a second-generation family business with more than two decades of hands-on industry experience, Hotel Solutions DMC under Michelle have developed an in-depth understanding of the travel, conference, and events sector, as well as the evolving needs of clients and industry partners. Together with her son, Stuart Thornton, and their highly experienced team, Michelle continues to lead the business, with a strong focus on professionalism, attention to detail, and delivering consistently exceptional customer service. Their hands-
on approach and commitment to client care have become one of the defining strengths of Hotel Solutions DMC and a key reason why clients continue to return year after year. A complete range of accommodation, meetings, conferences and event management Hotel Solutions DMC provide a comprehensive portfolio of destination management and travel services, supporting corporate clients, event organisers, incentive groups, retail travel agents, tour operators, and independent travellers alike. Services include: • • • • • • • • • •
Worldwide hotel accommodation Meetings, conference and event management Corporate and incentive travel Venue sourcing and negotiation Restaurant sourcing and reservations for groups and VIP clients Tailor-made itineraries Group travel solutions Airport transfers and transportation Excursions and sightseeing programmes Luxury and bespoke travel experiences
• •
FIT and leisure travel arrangements Entertainment sourcing and event programming • Team-building activities and incentive experiences In addition to travel and logistics management, Hotel Solutions DMC also work closely with trusted AV and production partners to deliver seamless technical and production support for conferences, meetings, and live events. From production, staging, lighting, and sound, along with presentation management and on-site technical
Michelle Thornton, founder and MD, Hotel Solutions DMC.
Hotel Solutions DMC Choose from 3 million hotels across the globe At Hotel Solutions DMC, we turn event planning from challenging to seamless. Our complimentary venue-finding service gives you instant access to an extensive network of high-quality hotels and venues, often with exclusive preferred rates that save you both time and money. We also pride ourselves on speed and turn around every venue enquiry within 48 to 72 hours, so you can move forward with confidence and clarity. From the moment you brief us to the moment your event begins, we handle all the logistics, sourcing, negotiations, site visits, contracts, and every detail right up to event day, giving you clear visibility from start to finish. And for those who want a truly effortless experience, our Full Event Management service provides complete, end-to-end support, delivering flawless coordination and peace of mind from concept through to completion.
Reliable * Cost-Effective * Hassle-Free If there is anything you need, don’t hesitate to contact us — we are here to help!
info@hotel-solutions.ie www.hotel-solutions.ie
CONTACT US: +353 1 6309211
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Event Management: Hotel Solutions DMC By combining extensive industry knowledge with strong supplier relationships, Hotel Solutions DMC are often able to secure added-value opportunities, exclusive rates, and tailored solutions that go far beyond standard online offerings.
Hotel Solutions DMC work closely with trusted AV and production partners to deliver seamless technical and production support for conferences, meetings, and live events. coordination, the company ensures every aspect of an event is professionally managed to the highest standard. Through a trusted global supplier network and long-established industry partnerships, Hotel Solutions DMC consistently deliver competitive pricing, while maintaining the highest standards of quality, reliability, and operational support. Better value through experience and expertise One of the key advantages of working with Hotel Solutions DMC is the value that comes from genuine industry expertise. While online booking platforms may offer convenience, they often lack the personalised guidance, destination insight, along with logistical support which is required to successfully manage conferences, meetings, and events. The experienced team at Hotel Solutions DMC understands the finer details involved in organising successful events and travel programmes. From selecting the right venue and negotiating competitive rates to co-ordinating accommodation, transfers, production requirements, and on-site operations, every detail is carefully managed to ensure a smooth and successful experience for clients and delegates alike.
Exceptional customer service that builds long-term relationships Customer service has always been the foundation of Hotel Solutions DMC’s success. Michelle and Stuart Thornton, and their dedicated team, are passionate about delivering the highest level of personal attention to detail, professionalism, and care to every client they work with. The team understands that every meeting, conference, incentive programme, and event is unique, which is why they take the time to fully understand each client’s objectives, requirements, and budget. Whether managing a corporate conference, sourcing accommodation for a large group, co-ordinating production requirements with AV support, or delivering a bespoke incentive programme, clients benefit from dedicated support at every stage of the process. Michelle and Stuart have built a highly respected team that shares their commitment to responsiveness, efficiency, and genuine customer care. Their proactive approach, attention to detail, and ability to deliver seamless solutions under pressure, have helped establish long-standing relationships with clients who continue to trust them with their accommodation requirements, meetings, conferences, events, and travel requirements. In an industry where schedules can change quickly and unexpected challenges can arise, having direct access to an experienced and supportive team provides invaluable peace of mind. From the initial enquiry through to post-event support, Hotel Solutions DMC prides itself on always being available when clients need assistance.
The TWIG networking lunch is just one of the many events organised every year by Hotel Solutions DMC.
This unwavering commitment to service excellence is one of the key reasons why the company has maintained a loyal client base for more than 24 years. A family passion The company’s strong connection to the travel and incentive industry is also reflected in the next generation of leadership. Michelle is especially proud that her son Stuart has been appointed President of the Irish Chapter of SITE for 2026. (Society of Incentive Travel Excellence). The Irish chapter is recognised as one of the largest SITE chapters in Europe, highlighting Ireland’s significant role within the international meetings, incentives, conferences, and events sector. This achievement reflects the Thornton family’s continued passion for excellence within the conference and events industry and their ongoing contribution to the sector, both nationally and internationally. Supporting clients and industry partners As the conferences, events, and travel sectors continue to evolve, strong partnerships and dependable support have become more important than ever. Hotel Solutions DMC work closely with corporate clients, travel agents, event organisers, AV production partners, and industry suppliers to provide expert advice, operational support, competitive pricing, and tailored solutions that help deliver successful outcomes. By working with a dedicated DMC partner, clients gain access to experienced professionals who understand the complexities of meetings, conference, event management, and production logistics, and who are committed to delivering seamless experiences with exceptional attention to detail. Looking ahead After more than 24 years in business, Hotel Solutions DMC continue to combine experience, passion, and personalised service to deliver exceptional meetings, conferences, events, and travel solutions for clients and partners alike. While the meetings, conference and events industry continues to evolve, the company’s core values remain unchanged: expert knowledge, outstanding customer service, and a genuine commitment to building long-term relationships based on trust, reliability, and excellence. And most importantly, saving you money! For more information, please contact Michelle directly on michelle@hotelsolutions.ie or visit www.hotel-solutions.ie.
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Drinks News Bulmers bring back spirit of Italia '90
36 years after Italia '90 captured the imagination of a nation, new research from Bulmers reveals the tournament remains one of the defining moments in modern Irish history, with almost nine in 10 people (89%) saying it played an important role in Ireland’s sense of national pride. To celebrate that enduring legacy, Bulmers brought Italia ’90 back to life this summer with a nationwide roadshow visiting Dublin, Cork, Galway and Clonmel, recreating the sights, sounds and atmosphere of that unforgettable summer. At the heart of the tour was the iconic Italia ’90 homecoming bus, which Bulmers brought back and took on the road, with appearances from Republic of Ireland legend Packie Bonner, who shared memories from the tournament and met with supporters. Packie is pictured with social media stars Tadhg and Derry Fleming.
Grahan Norton launches zeroalcohol Sauvignon Blanc GN WINES, the award-winning partnership between Graham Norton and New Zealand winery Invivo, are launching GN Zero Sauvignon Blanc, the range's first alcohol-free wine. The new 0% wine was crafted in New Zealand by Invivo co-founder and GN Wines winemaker Rob Cameron, who has nearly three decades of winemaking experience, including in zero and lower-alcohol wine. Rob started with the full-strength GN Sauvignon Blanc - known for its trademark ‘zing’ and crisp acidity - then used spinning cone technology to gently remove the alcohol, before rebuilding the palate weight to restore mouthfeel. The result is a fresh, expressive alcoholfree Sauvignon Blanc with texture and mouthfeel that stays true to GN Wines' signature style – balanced, bright and seriously drinkable.
Dingle Distillery unveils ultimate summer cocktails
DINGLE Distillery have crafted two delicious bespoke cocktails designed to make the most of the sunshine, featuring their classic awardwinning Dingle Gin and the newly launched Dingle Gin Orange & Sea Salt. Dingle Gin’s favourite heatwave survival serves include the Dingle Orange & Sea Salt Paloma, which is a vibrant, zesty twist on a classic, and the Dingle Gin Hugo Spritz, which is light, effervescent, and incredibly crisp. "Our gin is entirely rooted in the provenance and character of the Dingle Peninsula, a place defined by fresh Atlantic breezes. We wanted to share two simple, world class cocktail recipes that bring that crisp coastal energy to back gardens across Ireland,” noted Elliot Hughes, Managing Director of Dingle Distillery.
Boann Legacy launch marks summer solstice BOANN Distillery have announced a new addition to their core Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey range, which formed the centrepiece of the County Meath distillery’s annual Summer Solstice event recently. Boann Legacy Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey is crafted from a complex mash bill of malted and unmalted barley, with oats and rye, and marries seven different cask types - Bourbon, Oloroso, Pedro Ximénez, Palo Cortado, Amontillado, Moscatel, and French oak - sourced from some of the world's finest wine and cooperage regions. The exclusive release, with an ABV of 59.2%, is limited to just 777 individually numbered bottles worldwide and will carry an RRP of €85 per 700ml bottle.
Lough Gill Brewery invest in sustainability LOUGH Gill Brewery have installed a state-of-the-art CO2 Recovery System which will significantly cut the brewery’s carbon footprint and lead to sustainable energy savings. In addition, the family-owned brewery is to introduce a new immersive visitor experience, attracting tourists to Sligo and enhancing the county’s tourism sector. As Lough Gill Brewery celebrates its 10th anniversary, the combined initiatives form part of a broader investment of approximately €500,000 in the brewery and its operations. “Installing a CO2 recovery system is a significant investment, but it’s the right thing to do,” said James Ward, founder (pictured). “It reduces our footprint, strengthens our resilience and shows that small independent breweries can lead from the front when it comes to sustainability.”
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JTI Ireland
Amber Leaf: fingers on buzzers - get ready to play! AMBER Leaf is preparing to launch its latest Limited Edition Bundle campaign, designed to support retailer participation and keep Amber Leaf in front of mind across the trade. As Ireland’s number one RYO brand, Amber Leaf continues to deliver consistent value for retailers, driven by strong demand and formats that meet adult consumer needs. With a 72.5% share of the RYO category, the brand remains a dependable choice for retailers looking to maintain steady sales and strong category performance (Figures correct at time of printing, sourced from NIQ Scan Track, INC, SOM, MAT, May 17, 2026).
Building on this momentum, fingers on the buzzers… get ready to play! The upcoming campaign will introduce engaging, interactive activity through JTI Collect, with multiple chances to win prizes (terms and conditions apply). By taking part, retailers can benefit from regular initiatives that reward participation, help drive footfall, support strong instore visibility, and protect margins. Maintain availability across Amber Leaf Original and Amber Leaf Blonde to support demand and maximise sales opportunities. Amber Leaf is about to launch its latest Limited Sign up to JTI Collect to take part in the campaign and stay ahead of the Edition Bundle campaign, with engaging interactive activity through JTI Collect. game.
Nordic Spirit stays fresh for summer SUMMER is a key moment for the nicotine pouch category, with lighter, fresh flavours driving increased interest from adult consumers. This seasonal shift places flavour at the heart of engagement during peak trading periods. Nordic Spirit is meeting these evolving preferences, offering a diverse range of fruity and cooling flavour experiences within a trusted and recognised brand. Fruit-led options play a central role within the range, from Blueberry and Raspberry delivering familiar sweetness, to the cooler flavour notes like Frosty Berry. Zesty Pear adds a crisp edge, while Icy Watermelon delivers a refreshing flavour suited to the summer months. These flavour profiles reflect what shoppers are looking for at this time of year, helping to keep the category exciting and relevant. For retailers, aligning the range with these seasonal preferences is key. A balanced mix of familiar and refreshing options supports visibility and helps shoppers navigate the range during periods of heightened demand. Make the most of peak summer demand; ensure your range is ready. Stock Nordic Spirit now to stay relevant in-store and capture the season’s strongest sales opportunities.
Nordic Spirit offers consumers a diverse range of fruity and cooling flavour experiences within a trusted and recognised brand.
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Back-to-School
Back-toSchool bonanza The Back-to-School period has become a key sales opportunity for smart retailers. THE Back-to-School season has become one of the most commercially important trading periods for Ireland's grocery and FMCG sectors, after Christmas and Easter, as a key opportunity to drive trade in-store and increase basket size, and also to strengthen customer loyalty. While school uniforms, stationery and technology often dominate consumer headlines – with many of Ireland’s supermarket groups offering cut-price school uniforms in recent years – grocery outlets and FMCG brands play another significant role in helping families prepare for the return to the classroom. For retailers, Back-to-School is less about a single shopping mission and more about a sustained shift in household purchasing behaviour. As families transition from summer holidays to structured weekday routines, shopping baskets change almost overnight. Breakfast returns as a daily occasion, lunchbox preparation resumes, evening meal planning becomes more regimented, and demand for convenient, family-focused solutions increases across the store. As the cost of living continues to rise, with inflation a key concern for Irish households, the Back-to-School period is frequently characterised by careful household budgeting. Rising living costs ensure that value is hugely important, as parents seek to balance nutrition and quality with affordability. This can be seen
in growing demand for promotions and own label products, with Irish shoppers unafraid to compare prices across multiple retailers. Stores that clearly communicate value and simplify the shopping journey are well positioned to capture a greater share of spend. The school lunchbox remains one of the strongest drivers of FMCG sales during this period. Categories including bread, wraps, cheese, cooked meats, yoghurts, fruit, cereal bars, crackers and snacks all experience increased demand as parents stock up for the daily school routine. Drinks brands also benefit from higher sales of juice cartons, water, flavoured milk and lunchbox-friendly drinks. Healthier choices also continue to gain momentum, reflecting growing consumer awareness around nutrition and school healthy eating policies, with products that combine nutritional benefits with convenience hitting the sweet spot that appeals to busy families countrywide. Breakfast too comes into sharp focus as households return to more structured weekday routines. Cereals, porridge, breakfast drinks, bakery products and fresh fruit all benefit from renewed demand as families seek quick, nutritious meal solutions before the school day begins. Brands that position themselves around energy, convenience and sustained nutrition are particularly well placed during this period.
Dinner occasions also evolve once schools reopen. As parents juggle work with school collections, demand increases for convenient meal solutions that reduce preparation time without compromising on quality. Ready meals, meal kits, chilled ingredients, frozen foods and easy-toprepare family dinners all become more relevant. This creates opportunities for savvy retailers to merchandise complementary products together and encourage larger basket purchases. Cross-category merchandising is also important, simplifying the shopping mission for time-poor parents, and often increasing impulse purchases across multiple categories. Innovation continues to differentiate brands in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Packaging formats designed for lunchboxes, resealable options, reduced sugar formulations and products with added nutritional benefits are all responding to changing consumer expectations. Sustainability also remains firmly on the agenda, with recyclable packaging, reduced food waste initiatives and locally sourced ingredients increasingly influencing purchasing decisions, particularly among younger families. Convenience remains one of the defining trends across the grocery landscape, and nowhere is this more evident than during the Back-to-School period. Between school runs, after-school activities and
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Back-to-School increasingly busy working lives, consumers continue to seek meal solutions that reduce preparation time without compromising on quality. Ready meals, chilled meal kits, frozen convenience foods and easy-to-cook ingredients all become increasingly relevant, presenting opportunities for both branded and ownlabel suppliers to drive incremental sales. Digital engagement is also reshaping the Back-to-School shopping journey. Retailer apps, personalised loyalty offers and online grocery platforms are becoming integral to how consumers plan and execute their seasonal shop. At the same time, social media has emerged as an important source of meal inspiration, lunchbox ideas and recipe content, providing FMCG brands with additional touchpoints to engage shoppers before they even enter the store. For the Irish grocery sector, Back-toSchool is no longer simply a seasonal sales event; it is a strategic trading period that sets the tone for the autumn months ahead. Retailers and suppliers that understand evolving shopper missions, invest in targeted activation and deliver genuine value will be best placed to capture spend in an increasingly competitive market. As consumers continue to prioritise convenience, affordability and healthier choices, the businesses that can align with those expectations are likely to emerge as the season's strongest performers.
Pritt's Magical World campaign encourages children to let their imaginations run free through hands-on crafting, featuring magical characters, including fairies and unicorns.
Crafting creativity with Pritt With their new Magical World campaign, Pritt are inspiring children to explore their imaginations through hands-on crafting, helping to develop creativity, confidence and key skills both at home and in the classroom. As families prepare for the new school year, Pritt are encouraging parents and teachers to make room for creativity alongside the classroom essentials. In an increasingly digital world, hands-on activities such as cutting, sticking and crafting continue to play an important role in helping children express themselves, build confidence and develop practical skills. Back-to-School is the perfect time to stock up on trusted crafting essentials, and for more than 50 years Pritt have been helping children learn through creativity. Whether creating classroom displays, homework projects or imaginative crafts at home, Pritt's child-safe glue sticks have been a trusted companion for generations of young learners. Crafting has always been about more than making something fun. Activities
involving pressing, sticking, cutting and assembling help children develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and concentration, while encouraging imaginative thinking, problem-solving and self-expression. Whether children are creating classroom displays, making greeting cards or designing imaginative craft projects at home, every activity offers an opportunity to build confidence while strengthening important developmental skills. As schools and families continue to balance digital learning with practical experiences, creative play remains an important part of children's growth. Pritt's glue sticks have been designed to make crafting easy, reliable and enjoyable for children of all ages. The high-performance formula provides strong initial tack, long-lasting adhesion across a variety of materials, helps reduce paper wrinkling and offers repositionability, giving children the freedom to adjust their work where needed. Available in 11g, 22g and 43g sizes, there's a Pritt glue stick suitable for everything from individual homework
projects to larger classroom displays. Safety remains at the heart of the Pritt range. Its child-safe glue stick formula is made from 97% natural ingredients, including water, sugar and potato starch, giving parents and teachers confidence when children are crafting independently. The washable formula delivers reliable performance, while remaining suitable for everyday classroom and home use, making it an ideal companion for everything from art lessons to after-school projects. This year's Magical World campaign encourages children to let their imaginations run free through hands-on crafting. Featuring magical characters including fairies and unicorns, the campaign is designed to make creative play even more engaging, while inspiring children to build, create and tell their own stories. By combining imaginative play with trusted crafting essentials, Pritt continue to help children develop creativity, confidence and practical skills, making it a go-to choice for classrooms and homes this back-to-school season. Find out more about Pritt at Prittworld.co.uk.
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Worldpanel by Numerator Brand Footprint
How consumers shop the brands they love Worldpanel by Numerator’s 2026 Brand Footprint reveals how Irish shoppers are testing the brands they trust most. THE results of the 2026 Worldpanel by Numerator Brand Footprint are in, ranking the most chosen FMCG brands in Ireland by Consumer Reach Points (CRPs), a measure combining household penetration and purchase frequency. Brennans leads the ranking, followed by Avonmore, Tayto, Cadbury’s Dairy Milk and Jacob’s. The ranking looks like a familiar kitchen cupboard, with four of the five brands carrying Irish heritage, but what is changing is the scrutiny applied to every item in it. The strong performance of brands with Irish heritage proves that those brands with roots in Irish homes can hold commercial ground, even as shoppers
Emer Healy, Business Development Director for Ireland, Worldpanel by Numerator.
watch the basket more closely. Shoppers are spending differently as they navigate price pressures. Ireland’s branded FMCG market reached €1.8 billion in spend in 2025, up 10.2% year on year, and driven by rising inflation. As a result, shoppers are buying little and often to manage budgets, still turning to names they know, but the choice must survive more scrutiny than it used to. Holding a position in the ranking and growing the quality of that position are two different things – and the gap between them is widening for several of Ireland’s bestknown brands. Brennans shows the strength of the everyday role their bread products hold. Their household penetration remains high at 75.8%, while Consumer Reach Points (CRP) slipped only 1.1% and spend rose 1.3%. That sturdy growth is built around bread being needed again tomorrow. In a market where shoppers are editing the basket, the brand still sits close to routine. Another household basic, the milk of Avonmore tells a richer story. Its overall penetration in Total FMCG fell from 65.7% to 63.3%, yet its CRPs rose 3.2%. Choice count climbed from 25.1 to 26.9, frequency rose from 23.7 to 25.4, and spend increased 10%. Fewer homes bought the brand, but those that did came back more often. If we break out Avonmore’s dairy performance alongside its peers, it sharpens that reading. In Dairy and Dairy Substitutes, it remains the category leader, with 27.9 million CRPs. Penetration fell t o 57.4%, while frequency rose to 25.5 and spend
rose 10.6%. The brand has also been giving shoppers newer reasons to notice it, including Vitamins & More, protein water and the return of high-protein soup. This is a brand leaning into health and wellness, especially around protein, while staying rooted in a very familiar dairy role. Jacob’s and their biscuits work in a different register. They rose one place to fifth in Total FMCG, with CRPs up 1.3%. Penetration eased to 79.2%, while frequency rose to 11.3 and spend grew 6.5%. This is the kind of brand that lives in ritual as much as in the biscuit aisle. The summary links Jacob’s strength to heritage and Christmas, including the ‘At the heart of
Total FMCG Top 20: Ireland 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.
Brennans Avonmore Tayto Cadbury’s Dairy Milk Jacob’s Cadbury's Coca-Cola Heinz Denny Knorr Fitzgerald’s Fairy Keelings Birds Eye Irish Pride Staffords Pringles JM & O’Brien McVitie’s Muller
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Worldpanel by Numerator Brand Footprint Total Food Top 20: Ireland 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.
Brennans Tayto Cadbury’s Dairy Milk Jacob’s Cadbury’s Heinz Denny Knorr Fitzgerald’s Keelings Birds Eye Irish Pride Staffords Pringles JM & O’Brien McVitie’s Pat the Baker KitKat Keogh’s Batchelors
Ireland’s leading beverage brand, with 16.1 million CRPs and 66.7% penetration. But the national brands still have scale. What’s different is that some of the sharper movement comes from water, lighter refreshment and energy. Ballygowan rose 24 places in Total FMCG and three places in Beverages, with CRPs up 25.2%. Penetration rose from 25.0% to 29.1%, while spend increased by 35.8%. Deep River Rock, a local water brand owned by Coca-Cola, also moved quickly. It rose 81 places in Total FMCG, with CRPs up 64.2%. In Beverages, it reached 28th, with frequency rising from 3.7 to 5.8 and spend up 81.8%. Its base is smaller, but the pattern is striking. More homes are buying it, and the homes that do are buying it more often. The same shelf is also making space for flavour and energy. 7-Up remains third in Beverages, with CRPs up 7.9%, penetration
every Irish Christmas’ campaign. Yes, it’s a play on nostalgia, but it’s also the ability to turn memory into a reason to buy again. Tayto still carry enormous reach with their wide range of crisps. They hold third place in Total FMCG and second in Total Food, with 20.9 million CRPs and 83.2% penetration. But CRPs fell 5.5%, and frequency softened to 13.7, while spend rose 3.7%, a reminder that the pressure on indulgence is real, even when Tayto is still everywhere, the crisp packet that feels like part of the national furniture.
Total Beverages Top 20: Ireland Coca-Cola Nescafé 7-Up Miwadi Lucozade Barry’s Club Ballygowan Pepsi Santa Rita Innocent Monster Kenco Heineken Guinness McGuigan Bulmers Casillero del Diablo Carlsberg Fanta
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.
Total Homecare Top 20: Ireland
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.
Beverage sector Beverages show up slightly differently this time around. Coca-Cola remains
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.
Total Health & Beauty Top 20: Ireland
Fairy Lenor Andrex Comfort Killeen Domestos Persil Nicky Flash Cushelle Dettol Regina Ariel Bold Cif Febreze Finish Bloo Kittensoft Plenty
at 54.1% and spend up 17.2%. Innocent grew CRPs by 22.7% and spend by 32.6%. Monster grew CRPs by 32.7%, with frequency rising to 12.9 and spend up 28.9%. Irish shoppers still want refreshment, but the role of a drink is widening. It can hydrate, lift, flavour the day or stand in for a small treat. 2026 highlights Highlights from the 2026 ranking include: •
Heritage brands can still grow when the promise keeps earning its place. Kerrygold reached 29% household penetration in Ireland in 2025, with CRPs up 19.1%, spend per household
Colgate Dove L’Oreal Paris Always Sensodyne Sure Lynx Nivea Kleenex Sanex Oral-B Palmolive Garnier Radox Gillette Listerine Aquafresh Pantene Corsodyl Mitchum
up 20.9%, and the brand climbing 21 places in the FMCG ranking. The brand is a familiar one in Ireland, but even so, that familiarity had to be earned through real occasions – toast, baking, family meals – not assumed. A mature brand growing repeat choice and higher spend in a careful market is the harder achievement. Kerrygold’s strength is that its familiar cues still carry commercial force: Irish dairy, grass-fed provenance, farming tradition, simple ingredients and taste. The brand tells us those cues are central to how consumers understand and trust Kerrygold. •
Freshness is gaining ground, but trust is what carries it. Keelings climbed to 13th in total FMCG, up six places, with CRPs up 16.4%, penetration rising to 50% and spend up 40.1%. Fyffes rose eight places to 44th, with frequency up from 7.4 to 8.6 and spend up 19.4%. Fresh produce can feel like an easy cut when money is tight, but both brands are growing because the name behind the product removes that hesitation.
•
Water and energy are the fastestmoving segment in beverages. Ballygowan rose 24 places, with CRPs up 25.2% and spend up 35.8%, its Irish rugby and GAA partnerships giving hydration a local face. Deep River Rock rose 81 places with CRPs up 64.2% and spend up 81.8% from a smaller base. Coca-Cola remains Ireland’s leading beverage brand with 16.1
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Worldpanel by Numerator Brand Footprint Birds Eye FOR decades, Birds Eye has been a trusted favourite with Irish shoppers, delivering quality, taste, and convenience across a range of household staples. Today, the brand remains one of Ireland's leading names in frozen food, maintaining a strong presence across multiple categories and occasions. This strength is further reflected in Birds Eye's position as the No. 14 brand in the Worldpanel Top 20 Irish FMCG Brands, highlighting its scale, penetration and continued relevance with Irish consumers. The brand's strength is reflected in its deep connection with Irish shoppers. Over half of Irish households buy a Birds Eye product. In fact, a Birds Eye product is sold in Ireland every 2.77 seconds, demonstrating the scale and consistency of consumer demand (Source: Worldpanel by Numerator, Unit Sales & Household Penetration, 52 weeks ending 14/06/2026). Supporting this performance is continued investment behind the brand. Over the past year, Birds Eye has delivered significant above-the-line activity across TV, VOD, partnerships and social media, complemented by a strong in-store presence to drive visibility and conversion at the point of purchase. At the heart of this activity is the Birds Eye Masterbrand campaign, which celebrates some of the brand's best-loved family favourites, including Chicken Dippers, Fish Fingers, Waffles and Peas. With continuous investment into driving quality products, innovation and media, there are exciting times ahead for the Birds Eye brand.
•
•
million CRPs and 66.7% penetration. Monster grew CRPs by 32.7% and Innocent by 22.7%. The drinks choice is widening: hydration, energy and the ‘little luxury’ occasions are often competing for the same moment. Comfort brands face closer scrutiny, but Christmas showed brands can fight back. Tayto holds third in total FMCG with 83.2% penetration, yet CRPs fell 5.5% and frequency softened to 13.7. Cadbury’s Dairy Milk reaches 76.1% of households but CRPs fell 7.9%, even as spend rose 11.6%. Yet Ireland’s branded spend rose €5 million in December 2025, a reminder that shoppers trade towards brands when the occasion earns it.
Behind the figures “Ireland’s ranking looks familiar at the top, but the way brands hold their positions is changing,” explains Emer Healy, Business Development Director for Ireland,
Birds Eye Chicken Dippers, a real favourite with Irish consumers.
Worldpanel by Numerator. “Holding a place in the table and growing the quality of that position are two different things. Some brands are bought by almost everyone. Some hold because the people who buy them come back more often and spend more. Some are growing because they make health, freshness or premium quality feel worth it on an ordinary day. Irish shoppers still know what they want, but they are making the brands prove it more often.” This is the 14th year of Worldpanel by Numerator’s Brand Footprint report. The brand rankings are based on Consumer Reach Points (CRPs), which are calculated by measuring the number of households in a market, by the percentage of households buying a specific brand, and by the number of interactions with a brand across a category in a year. The full report can be accessed at: https://kantar.turtl.co/story/brandfootprint-great-britain-scotland-andireland-2026/page/1.
Total Dairy & Substitutes Top 20: Ireland 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.
Avonmore Dairygold Muller Yoplait Alpro Glenisk Activia Irish Yoghurts Connacht Gold Charleville Kerrygold Glenilen Farm Premier Dairies Philadelphia Benecol Actimel Hazelbrook Farm Magnum LowLow Kilmeaden
Bring in the
back to school
crowds
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ECR Ireland Leaders Forum
GLP-1 drugs to impact on grocery market The recent ECR Ireland Leaders Forum focused on the changing face of the FMCG market, with increasing use of GLP-1 drugs set to shake up how consumers shop and what they buy. The ECR Ireland Leaders Forum 2026 offered up some fascinating insights into key topics that will affect the FMCG sector over the coming months and years. The three key areas that were explored on the day were: The Future Consumer, Digital Transformation, and Food Fit for the Future. Hazel Ahern Flynn, Senior Economist with Ibec, started the morning with a presentation that detailed just how difficult it has become for economists to make predictions during these days of deeply uncertain geopolitics. Inflation in Ireland this year will likely be somewhere between 3.5% and 6%, depending on how events in the global energy and fuel market play out over the course of the year. Domestic demand,
likewise, is difficult to predict, with estimates running anywhere from 2.8% growth to 0% growth or even decline, again depending on how global events impact Irish consumers. In better news for brands, spending by Irish consumers is up across almost every category. However, this is due to increased prices rather than increased volume, as Irish consumers have been willing to pay more for the same amount of goods, using savings and wage increases to allow them to avoid cutting down the amount they buy. However, Hazel warned that this will not be sustainable in the long term and should global conditions not change for the better, Irish consumers may start to cut consumption eventually.
‘The Future Consumer’ is already here Keith Farrell, Country Manager with Dr Oetker, shared details on ‘The Future Consumer’, explaining that in many ways the consumer of the future is already here. Irish consumers are now more media savvy than they have ever been, but are also more influenced by media they trust than ever before; more conscious of sustainability than ever before but unwilling to pay more for sustainably produced products; more health conscious than ever but also loving indulgence more than ever; and most importantly for brands, they are less brand loyal than they have ever been. Post-pandemic, our homes have become not only where we live but also our office,
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ECR Ireland Leaders Forum
Micheál Donohoe, Tesco Ireland and ECR Ireland Co-Chair.
Chris Upton, CEO of Gate One/ Havas.
our coffee shop, our entertainment venue, and our restaurant. This has created more potential for premiumisation than ever before for brands, but only for those products that can convince consumers that their premium offer is worth it. The notion of convenience has been with us for many years but convenience has expanded to include not only convenience of access, but to products that remove the mental stress and complexity of choice and provide clear and simple solutions to customers’ shopping missions.
Using technology effectively to build loyalty Lucy Cunningham, Head of Media & Propositions EMEA & APAC with Dunhumby, explained how younger consumers are becoming more valuable to brands and while they embrace new technology to access new shopping experiences, they do not want technology to be too intrusive. Consumers are now more willing to share data with brands but increasingly want something in return for that valuable data; personalisation can increase loyalty, but only when done in the right way that does not feel intrusive. However, shopping is still often an emotional experience for the consumer and choices can still be
Paul Kelly, Unilever Ireland and ECR Ireland Co-Chair.
Chris Knowles, Country Manager, Birds Eye Ireland, at the ECR Ireland Leaders Forum.
influenced at the point of sale, but brands need to be extremely cognisant of how they try to affect the consumer through the path to purchase. Lucy explained that retail media works best with the modern consumer when it genuinely helps their decision making processes rather than just trying to influence it. Her advice to brands is to be useful to the consumer, to remove friction and deliver value. Brands that connect their channels to create an easy seamless journey for the consumer will connect better and above all, deliver more transparency to build trust, which is the best way to generate loyalty with consumers. She stressed that consumer
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ECR Ireland Leaders Forum
Pictured on stage are: Keith Farrell, Dr. Oetker; Lucy Cunningham, dunnhumby; Scott Ellis and Chris Upton, Gate One / Havas. trust will be earned by those brands that are honest with consumers and give them a sense of control over their choices. The impact of GLP-1s on grocery Chris Upton, CEO of Havas Dublin, and Scott Ellis, Partner with Gate One, gave a fascinating presentation on the impact that GLP-1s will have on consumer behaviours. GLP-1 drugs are the increasingly commonly used weight loss drugs, the best known of which is Ozempic. They explained that GLP-1s are not a diet fad that will change consumer behaviour for a while because unlike fads, they really do work. Uptake in the US market is well ahead of Europe and the impact has been huge. Households using GLP-1s see on average a fall in food consumption of more than 10%
Noel Keeley, the Musgrave CEO, who is retiring at the end of 2026, in conversation with Declan Carolan, General Manager, ECR Ireland.
but more importantly a huge change in the types of food users choose to consume. It is not only food that is affected; about one third of GLP-1 users also reduce their alcohol consumption and indeed their entire attitude to consumption changes significantly. Brands are going to need to think about this if they are to succeed in a World where GLP-1 use is very frequent. A huge change coming to the GLP-1 market is the fact that the drugs are moving out of patent in many countries around the world and the delivery method will increasingly switch from injection to pill form; this is likely to see a dramatic reduction in cost and increase in use of these weight loss drugs. Brands need to adapt to the idea of succeeding in a market where temptation
Some of the Haleon Ireland team, pictured at the ECR Ireland Leaders Forum: Kim McCoy, Ciara McGuinness, and Helena Day.
is significantly reduced as one of the influences on consumer behaviour. Consumers who are far more rational in their decision-making processes will identify much more strongly with brands that help empower them and fit in with their new aspirations. ‘The Agentic Consumer’ Richie Jones, Enterprise Technologist with Amazon Web Services, presented on the topic of ‘The Agentic Consumer’. Agentic marketing is the process of marketing to the AI agents that people use to research their shopping for them. Amazon has already rolled out Alexa for Shopping in the US and it will be become more common in Europe. The agentic path to purchase is radically different to that of a typical consumer as AI agents compare more options, more deeply than a typical consumer does, before making a purchase recommendation or purchasing a product themselves. The roll-out of agents such as Alexa for Shopping faces more challenges in Europe than it has in the US, with varying currencies making price comparison for agents more challenging and multiple languages creating another challenge. However, these are challenges that are already being addressed and overcome and brands need to start planning on how to market to agent or risk losing sales in the future. The future of food: regulation on advertising mooted Presenting on ‘Food Fit for the Future’,
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ECR Ireland Leaders Forum
Gráinne Galvin, Country Manager Ireland at General Mills Europe & Australia, discussing leadership with Declan Carolan, General Manager, ECR Ireland. Lauren Woodley Head of Nutrition & Sensory Science with Nomad Foods, gave some stark warnings about the future of food. The WHO has added food to the four “killer” industries, along with alcohol, tobacco and fossil fuels, and there are increasing calls for advertising of food to be regulated in the same way. The WHO has identified a double malnutrition burden, with foods creating an obesity epidemic as well as under-delivering on essential vitamins and nutrients. Europe is already spending over 2% of GDP dealing with obesity and this figure is set to double by 2060, making it an industry causing a greater health cost than smoking. While we are likely some time away from regulation as stringent as that on tobacco or alcohol, that is the direction that the political mood is trending and brands need to make significant changes to help improve the outcomes that the sector delivers to consumers. Kevin Friel, VP of Marketing with Strong Roots continued on the topic, explaining that trends around transparency of ingredients are only going to become more prevalent, either led by legislation of by consumer activity. He cited the growth of third party apps such as Yuka, which allow consumers to inform themselves much more easily about how healthy foods are. Ultra-Processed Foods are viewed with increasing suspicion by the WHO and by consumers themselves due to their health impacts. Trends in the US, such as Make America Healthy Again, are not so prevalent in Europe but the concerns around what and how we eat are only going to become more prevalent in the future, especially in a market where GLP-1 drugs further change consumer decision making patterns. The ‘Food Fit for the Future’ will
Stephen Meleady, Gioia Onofri & Matt Peat, from Richmond Marketing.
need to be healthy, convenient, sustainable and affordable, and this will create huge challenges, but also opportunities, for brands in the future. Noel Keeley: a visionary leader To close out the ECR Leaders Forum, Noel Keeley, the shortly retiring CEO of Musgrave Group, gave a fascinating insight into what it means to truly lead and be a leader in modern grocery retail. “Grocery retail has seen huge changes in recent years and we will see even bigger changes in the coming years,” Keeley noted. “Value as a concept is driving consumer behaviour more than ever before, but value is about more than price now, but an overall perception of ‘is this worth it?’.” He noted how the Irish grocery sector has proven remarkably agile and adaptive and will need to continue to be so. “I expect to see health and lifestyle changes massively impact consumer behaviour in the coming years and I expect GLP-1 drugs have a huge impact on consumers and society more broadly,” he predicted. “I suspect we will see at least 20% of households using GLP-1s quite routinely as these drugs seem to provide a host of benefits and as of now no major negative effects.” Retailers, however, have proved nothing if not adaptable, a trend which the outgoing CEO does not see changing any time soon: “As we have always done, retail will need to give consumers what they want, when they want it and how they want it. With the significant changes we are likely to see, being able to anticipate trends will be more important than ever.” Musgrave has transformed from an organisation identified with wholesale to a leader in grocery retail and foodservice,
Carol Keating, Kenvue, and Nikki Wallace, The Maxol Group. he maintained: “We have done so through hard work and by serving people’s needs and wants successfully, and we will need to continue to do so in a rapidly changing market.” In closing, he reflected on the nature of leadership: “My take on leadership, either as a person or company, is that leadership can be a force for good or ill and you need to make the right decisions to get the right outcomes. Leadership is a decision, not a position. Leading well is about assessing the pros and cons of the decisions you make and the changes that will result from them. Finally and most importantly, a leader is only ever as good as the people around them and a CEO that cannot bring their organisation with them will never succeed; you must be humble as a leader and truly understand and value the input of everyone who supports you. The leaders who will succeed best will be those that can transform and perform at the same time and this is not at all an easy thing to do.”
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Forecourt Focus: News Circle K Ireland MD promoted to global role CIRCLE K Ireland Managing Director Ciara Foxton has been promoted to Senior Vice President Operations for Circle K MidEurope & Asia. She served as Managing Director of Circle K’s Irish business for two and half years since January 2024, prior to which she was the company’s finance director. She has worked for Circle K since 2018. Her previous roles include Senior Finance roles at LifeStyle Sports, Arnotts, Kefron, and Diageo. Her successor in the Irish market will be announced in the coming weeks. In her time at the helm of the business in Ireland, Foxton has been at the heart of several key strategic developments and initiatives, most notably the acquisition of forecourt and convenience locations from convenience retail group Pelco in 2024, and a solar energy agreement with EDF Renewables Ireland, which has resulted in all 168 sites within Circle K’s company-owned network being fully powered by renewable energy. Foxton has also overseen a period of sustained investment and growth in Circle K’s EV charging network, alongside investment in alternative fuels such as HVO. Her tenure also coincided with the launch of Circle K’s new customer loyalty platform, Extra, while Foxton has continued to raise awareness of the issue of harassment and abuse of staff in retail settings through Circle K’s annual Kindness Week initiative. Foxton will assume her new position in July 2026 and will be responsible for Circle K Mid-Europe & Asia, which includes Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, and Circle K’s Hong Kong business unit. In her new role, Foxton will oversee the ongoing integration of the Circle K brand and business in MidEurope following on from the acquisition of over 2,000 locations
Ciara Foxton, former Circle K Ireland MD and current Senior Vice President Operations for Circle K Mid-Europe & Asia. from TotalEnergies in Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg in 2023. “It has been a privilege for me to serve as MD of Circle K in Ireland, and I have thoroughly enjoyed my time leading such a wonderful team of people,” she said. “I am proud of what we have achieved together, and the business continues to maintain a very strong position in the Irish market. “I am excited to take on this new opportunity as we roll-out the Circle K brand in key markets in Mid-Europe. I joined Circle K Ireland in 2018, just as the brand started to become visible on Irish forecourts, and I am excited to go on the same journey again across Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg, as well as supporting our leaders in these markets.”
Circle K complete refurbishment of Shannon store CIRCLE K are celebrating the reopening of their newly refurbished Shannon store, following an investment of over €900,000, delivering an enhanced customer experience, expanded services and greater value for the local community. The redevelopment has created three new jobs and retained 12 existing roles, supporting employment and economic activity within the Shannon community. Customers visiting the refurbished store can enjoy an enhanced food offering, including an improved hot and cold deli, an expanded hot and cold grab-and-go range, an enhanced bakery offering, and an enhanced coffee experience, with a broader choice of customer favourites and speciality options such as matcha. The investment has also significantly expanded the store's retail offering. Customers can now browse a new off-licence, featuring an expanded beer range, dedicated wine chiller, and an enlarged wine selection. The drinks offering has also been enhanced with a wider variety of functional beverages, including fibre-infused sparkling sodas, vitamin-enhanced waters and matcha drinks, alongside an expanded confectionery and snacks range designed to give customers even greater choice. As part of the redevelopment, Circle K have invested in enhanced mobility services, including four EV charging points across two charging hubs and four dedicated EV parking spaces. The site also features a brand-new car wash experience, anchored by the Ultimate Wash programme, delivering superior cleaning performance and a premium finish, while further strengthening the site's position as a convenient one-stop destination for customers on the move. “We're delighted to officially reopen our newly refurbished Circle K Shannon store following an investment of over €900,000 in the
site,” noted Brian Connolly, Regional Director of Operations, Circle K Ireland. “Every aspect of this redevelopment has been designed with our customers in mind, from an expanded food and drinks offering and a brand-new Pictured at the official reopening of off-licence Circle K Shannon are: Neil Hargreaves, to enhanced Sales Market Manager; Iwona Perec EV charging Chrapek; Store Manager; and Brian facilities, a Connolly, Regional Director of premium Operations; with staff from the store. car wash experience and exclusive value through our Circle K Extra programme. We know customers are looking for convenience, quality and value in one place, and this investment ensures our Shannon store delivers exactly that while continuing to support the local community through new jobs and an enhanced retail experience."
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Forecourt Focus: News Maxol win top NACS award for Dublin store MAXOL have secured one of the most prestigious honours in European retail with the news that their flagship site, Long Mile Road in Dublin, was named NACS Convenience Store of the Year Europe 2026. The accolade was presented to Maxol CEO Brian Donaldson at the recent 2026 NACS Convenience Retail Awards Europe ceremony, held as part of the NACS Convenience Summit Europe in Warsaw. Chosen from convenience retailers across the continent, the recognition highlights Ireland's growing reputation for innovation and excellence in the convenience sector. The NACS Convenience Store of the Year award celebrates the most innovative and customer-focused convenience retail operators in Europe. The win recognises Maxol's €4.5 million redevelopment of their Long Mile Road site, which has transformed the location into a benchmark for modern convenience retailing through its focus on customer experience, food innovation, sustainability and community engagement. Unveiled earlier this year, Maxol’s Long Mile Road site has been transformed into a modern roadside retail destination featuring an expanded Maxol Deli, Zambrero, Burger King drive-thru, Rosa Coffee, an enhanced Dunnes Stores food offering, as well as new digital ordering kiosks in-store for commuters and locals on the go. “We are incredibly proud that Maxol Long Mile Road has been recognised as NACS Convenience Store of the Year Europe 2026,” said Brian Donaldson. “This award is a tremendous endorsement of our strategy to create best-in-class roadside retail destinations. We place food, convenience, and customer experience at the heart of everything we do, and Long Mile Road represents the very best of what Maxol stands for today: innovation, quality and a relentless focus on meeting the evolving needs of our customers. “To be recognised as NACS Convenience Store of the Year Europe is a tremendous honour and a testament to the hard work, passion and dedication of our entire team. This award reflects our continued commitment to investing in world-class retail experiences for our customers and the communities we serve.” The CEO said the Ling Mile Road site demonstrates how Maxol are evolving beyond traditional fuel retailing and investing in
Pictured at the award presentation are (l-r): Henry Armour, CEO International of NACS; Maxol CEO Brian Donaldson; and Mark Wohltmann, Director, NACS Global. destinations that offer customers exceptional food, grocery and service experiences: “Our Licensee at Long Mile Road, Thomas Ennis, is a standout retail operator with a strong commitment to food-to-go excellence. He and his team consistently deliver bestin-class standards across both foodservice and retail operations, creating an exceptional customer experience.” The redevelopment forms part of Maxol's five-year €175 million investment strategy and reflects the company's continued commitment to enhancing their network across Ireland. Thomas Ennis, Licensee at Maxol Long Mile Road, said: "The award is a fantastic recognition of the hard work and commitment shown by our entire team. Every aspect of the redevelopment was designed with our customers in mind, from the expanded food offering and improved store layout to enhanced parking and convenience features. We are delighted to see the site recognised on the European stage and would like to thank our customers and local community for their continued support.”
Applegreen open Popeyes at Midway THREE customers queued for up to 17 hours to get free chicken sandwiches for a year, as Applegreen opened their first Popeyes restaurant at Midway, Junction 17 on the M7 at the end of June.
Three customers won free chicken sandwiches for a year at the newly opened Popeyes restaurant at Midway, Junction 17 on the M7.
Each of the first 100 customers received Popeyes giveaways. Applegreen have created 40 new jobs with the opening of the new Popeyes restaurant and intend to create 450 new jobs over the next four years, as they roll out Popeyes chicken restaurants in a €6 million expansion programme. The opening marks Popeyes' second restaurant in the Republic of Ireland, extending their bold New Orleans flavours, warm Southern hospitality and world-famous ‘Shatter Crunch’ chicken to Midway. “We’re delighted to be bringing Popeyes to our customers at Midway in Portlaoise, and we look forward to welcoming customers,” said Seamus Stapleton, Managing Director of Applegreen’s Republic of Ireland business. “We’re continuing to grow and expand the Applegreen business in Ireland, and our new partnership with Popeyes means we can offer another high-quality restaurant brand to customers on the move.” Popeyes UK and Ireland Chief Development Officer, Tom Byng, said: “The opening of our new Midway restaurant marks the start of our new partnership with Applegreen, and we look forward to working closely with them to deliver new restaurants in roadside locations across the Republic of Ireland.”
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Employment Law
Tackling absence: an essential guide Edel Forde, Associate, and Jacqueline Ho, Managing Knowledge Lawyer, Lewis Silkin, provide a practical overview of absence management for retail employers in Ireland.
EMPLOYEE absence is one of the most common operational challenges for retail employers. With tight staffing and customer-facing roles that are hard to cover at short notice, even modest absence levels can cause significant disruption. Poor management of absences can lead to legal claims, operational challenges, and reputational damage. A fair, consistent approach protects your business, while supporting your employees. This article provides a practical overview of absence management for retail employers in Ireland, covering key legislation, employer obligations, and practical steps for managing absence effectively. The legal framework There is no single piece of legislation governing employee absence in Ireland. The legal framework draws from several sources, including employment legislation,
contracts of employment, and codes of practice. The key areas you need to know are set out below. Statutory Sick Leave The Sick Leave Act 2022 gives employees a statutory right to employer-paid sick leave. Since January 1, 2024, employees are entitled to five days of statutory sick leave per year, paid at 70% of normal wages (capped at €110 per day) - the planned increases to seven days in 2025 and 10 days in 2026 have been postponed by the government, so the entitlement currently remains at five days. To qualify, employees must have 13 weeks’ continuous service and provide a medical certificate from day one of any absence. Time on statutory sick leave should be treated as if the employee was at work and employees cannot be penalised for taking it. Importantly, section 9(1) of the Sick Leave
Act 2022 allows for an exemption from statutory sick leave if the company sick pay scheme is, as a whole, more favourable than the statutory minimum. In Shannon Reina v SK Biotek Ireland Ltd (SLD262, Feb 2026), the Labour Court confirmed that where an employer’s scheme is more favourable overall, the exemption applies and the employer is not obliged to pay statutory sick pay, even where the individual employee has been excluded from the company scheme for not following its rules. Employers should ensure that sick pay scheme rules are transparent and eligibility conditions are clearly communicated to employees. Disability and Reasonable Accommodations Under the Employment Equality Acts 19982015, disability is a protected ground. The definition of disability is broad, covering physical, intellectual, emotional, and
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Employment Law discrimination. Lessons learned from the case law show that requests for reasonable accommodations should be considered meaningfully and promptly and requires that options are genuinely meeting the employee’s needs in accordance with medical advice. Terms of Employment Under the Terms of Employment (Information) Acts 1994-2014, employees must be provided with written terms of employment, including details of sickness absence terms and any sick pay arrangements, within one month of starting employment. Failing to do so can result in a compensation award of up to four weeks' pay. This is an easy compliance requirement to overlook.
By investing in clear policies, manager training, and early intervention, retail employers can manage absence effectively, while minimising legal risk and supporting a positive workplace culture. mental health conditions, whether ongoing, temporary, or chronic. Where absences relate to a disability, the employer has a duty to provide reasonable accommodations, which may include changes to duties, working hours, or the work environment, or additional time off for treatment. The duty to accommodate applies unless doing so would impose a disproportionate burden on the employer. This would depend on the specific employer’s circumstances; for instance, whether the employer is a small family shop versus a large supermarket chain. The Supreme Court’s decision in Nano Nagle School v Daly ([2019] IESC 63) is essential guidance. Employers must genuinely explore all potential accommodations including redistributing core duties and involve the employee meaningfully in the process. An employer must show that it fully considered feasibility of reasonable accommodations before concluding an employee cannot perform the role. The consequences of getting this wrong were illustrated in Dylan O’Riordan v Omniplex Cork Limited (ADJ- 00051601). The employee was a deputy manager at the cinema who is autistic and had mental health issues, which he had notified to his employer and his manager at the start of his employment. In summer 2022, the employee requested reasonable accommodations around his roster and work environment. After going on sick
leave in October 2023, he attended with the company’s occupational health advisors. In January 2024, the occupational health report recommended various supports, including avoiding late shifts, consecutive days off and other supports including a quiet room, and noise-cancelling headphones. In mid-March 2024, HR proposed two roster arrangements that did not fully meet his needs. A third option was subsequently presented but this accommodation was subject to review every two to four weeks. This was declined by the employee as the lack of certainty of his consecutive days off caused him significant difficulty. The WRC found the employee’s acute needs were not fully addressed by these proposals and awarded him €12,000 for failure to provide reasonable accommodation. On appeal, it was accepted that there was engagement with the employee regarding reasonable accommodations. However, the Labour Court found there was a “considerable delay in engaging meaningfully” with the employee and that his requests “could have been met in a timely fashion” if the employer had been “truly committed” to facilitating a return to work. The Court found that “no cogent argument was advanced” that the request for suitable roster arrangements would “impose a disproportionate burden on the Respondent” and increased the award to €29,000 (a year’s salary) for effects of the
Unfair Dismissal Under the Unfair Dismissals Acts 19772015, dismissal for absence or incapacity can be fair, provided fair procedures are followed. Employers must show that the employee knew about attendance concerns, that there was engagement with the employee and up-to-date medical evidence. Employees should be given the chance to improve, with dismissal being a last resort. Compensation for unfair dismissal can be up to two years’ pay, or the employee may be re-engaged or reinstated. There is case law that shows dismissal for persistent absenteeism can be fair. In A Clerical Officer v A Public Body (ADJ00015364), an employee who had worked only 54 days since 2016 (with over 200 sick days per year) was dismissed after being given a further chance to improve but reverting to the same pattern. The WRC held the employer followed a graduated process and the dismissal was within the reasonable range of responses for an employer. The dismissal was upheld as fair. Where an employee has been absent for an extended period with no clear prospect of return, dismissal on grounds of incapacity may be justified. However, such a dismissal should only be taken after exploring all reasonable alternatives (such as modified roles or reduced hours), giving the employee a chance to respond, and having current medical evidence to support the decision. In A General Operative v A Food Processing Company (ADJ-00016678), an employee suffered a back injury and was absent for 20 months before being dismissed for incapacity. Multiple medical assessments, including by a company
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Employment Law doctor, an orthopaedic specialist, and a neurosurgeon, consistently indicated he was unfit for physically demanding work with a poor prognosis. Lighter duties were considered, but his restrictions (maximum 5kg lifting, postural constraints) were incompatible with available roles. The employee conceded that all general operative roles required rotation, movement, and some lifting that would cause him difficulties. The WRC found the dismissal was fair if it results from incapability to perform contracted work. The WRC considered that a reasonable employer would have dismissed in these circumstances, given the prolonged absence, negative medical prognosis, and lack of suitable alternative roles. The employer’s process was reasonable: clear written notice being provided to the employee that dismissal was being considered, multiple opportunities for the employee to be heard and present medical evidence, and detailed documentation throughout. This is the standard required to defend unfair dismissal claims. Health and Safety Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, employers have a duty to provide a safe place of work and manage health risks, which extends to managing returns to work after illness or injury. Breaches can lead to criminal prosecution, severe penalties, imprisonment, director liability, or investigations by the Health and Safety Authority. Furthermore, penalising employees for raising health and safety concerns can attract unlimited compensation. Building an effective absence management policy A comprehensive absence management policy is one of the most important tools for employers. It provides a consistent framework for managing both shortterm absences (frequent or recurring absences of a few days) and long-term absence (typically four weeks or more). An effective policy should include the following elements: Absence notification: Set out the employee’s responsibility to notify their manager of any absence as soon as possible. In retail, strict compliance is essential to arrange cover quickly and minimise disruption. Employees should be required to telephone (not text or WhatsApp) their manager as soon as possible, and no later than a set time before
There is no single piece of legislation governing employee absence in Ireland. Instead, the legal framework draws from several sources, including employment legislation, contracts of employment, and codes of practice. their shift – for example, one hour before the scheduled start time. Medical certification: Specify when a medical certificate is required, typically for absences of two or more consecutive days, with shorter absences covered by self-certification. In any case, employers should always reserve the right to request a medical certificate where it considers it is appropriate (for example, if there are frequent absences or a pattern emerges). An employer can request up-to-date medical evidence at reasonable intervals, including requiring employees to see a company-nominated doctor, provided that the employee is given reasonable notice and the cost of any such assessment is covered by the employer. Keeping in touch: Set out how employees will be contacted while on long-term absence (for example, fortnightly or monthly) and the employees’ obligations during the absence, such as submitting medical certificates on time and attending company doctor appointments. Return-to-work interviews: Every employee returning from absence should have a return-to-work conversation with their line manager. The purpose is to welcome them back, confirm fitness to return, understand any underlying issues or accommodations needed, and brief them on developments during their absence (including any refresher training). Keep this
as a supportive operational conversation, not a disciplinary one. Keep a written note of each meeting on file. Formal absence review and trigger points: Define specific trigger points for formal review. Common triggers could be a high number of absences in any rolling 12-month period, frequent short-term absences, or concerning patterns. When an employee reaches a trigger point, they should be invited to a formal meeting to discuss their attendance. Employees should be given reasonable notice and advised of their right to be accompanied. At the meeting, explore the reasons for absences, consider any underlying medical conditions, and agree supportive or corrective measures. The outcome and any supportive or corrective measures should be confirmed in writing, including any potential consequences if attendance does not improve. Consequences of non-compliance: Set out consequences for not following the policy; for example, suspension of non-statutory sick pay or removal of self-certification privileges. Cross-refer to your disciplinary procedure for excessive or unexplained absence. Managing unauthorised absence (AWOL): When an employee fails to attend work without permission or explanation, handle it carefully. Make clear in your policy that failing to follow the notification procedure without a reasonable explanation will be
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Employment Law treated as a disciplinary matter. If an employee does not report for a shift and makes no contact, do not assume the worst. Instead, make reasonable efforts to contact the employee either by telephone or in writing and try emergency contacts on file. Document all contact attempts carefully. Employers should remember that an unexplained absence is not automatic resignation. In Barry Colclough v Grange Mockler Holdings Ltd t/a Lanigan’s Bar (ADJ-00050044), the WRC found a dismissal unfair where the employer treated an employee’s absence as resignation without making genuine efforts to engage. The case underscores that employers must actively reach out before drawing conclusions. If, after reasonable attempts, the employee does not respond, the employer should write to them formally setting out the concerns about their absence and inviting them to a meeting with reasonable notice. The letter should specify potential consequences (up to and including dismissal) and advise the employee of
About the Authors
FOR further information on this topic or any other employment law matters, please contact the Lewis Silkin Ireland team. This article is for general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. Legal advice should be sought in any given set of circumstances.
Edel Forde, Associate, Lewis Silkin.
Retail employees should be required to telephone their manager as soon as possible, and no later than a set time before their shift, if they are going to be absent. their right to be accompanied. If they fail to attend, you may proceed in their absence, provided it can be shown that reasonable effort was made to engage.
Obtain medical evidence: Making decisions about an employee's fitness to work without current medical evidence is a significant procedural failing. Never rely solely on your own assessment of the employee's condition.
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Train your managers: Store managers and supervisors are on the front line of absence management. They need to understand the policy, know how to conduct return-to-work conversations, and recognise when to escalate to HR.
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Engage Early: Do not wait until an employee has been absent for months before acting. Early, supportive intervention is far more effective than a reactive, punitive approach.
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Seek legal advice when needed: Cases involving long-term illness, disability, or potential dismissal are legally complex. If unsure, seek legal advice before taking irreversible steps.
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Review sick pay arrangements: Ensure your sick pay arrangements comply with the Sick Leave Act 2022 and that employees know their entitlements.
Key guidance for retail employers •
Implement a written policy: If there is not a written absence management policy, it becomes difficult to show fair and consistent treatment. Every employee should receive a copy.
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Apply the policy consistently: Consistency across all employees, stores, and locations is essential. Unjustified differences in treatment can undermine the process and lead to discrimination or unfair treatment claims.
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Follow fair procedures: Dismissing an employee without a fair process - including formal warnings, medical review, and a chance for the employee to respond - is one of the most common reasons for unfair dismissal findings. Dismissal should always be a last resort.
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Distinguish disability-related absence: Failing to differentiate disabilityrelated absences and non-disability related absences or failing to explore reasonable accommodations, exposes employers to discrimination claims. Where in doubt, always obtain medical evidence and engage with the employee.
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Jacqueline Ho, Managing Knowledge Lawyer, Lewis Silkin.
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Keep accurate records: Documenting absences, return-to-work conversations, and formal review meetings and their outcomes, is essential for defending any future claim. A simple template or digital form makes this manageable for busy retail managers.
Conclusion Absence management is not about penalising employees for being ill. It is about having a fair, transparent, and consistent framework that protects both the business and the employee. For retail employers, a wellimplemented absence management policy is essential. By investing in clear policies, manager training, and early intervention, retail employers can manage absence effectively, while minimising legal risk and supporting a positive workplace culture.
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What’s New TAYTO REVEAL LIMITED EDITION FLAVOUR MR TAYTO has never been afraid to push the boundaries of flavour, but this summer, he’s going somewhere no crisp has ever gone before. Tayto are thrilled to announce their latest limited edition straight from the funfair of Mr Tayto’s imagination: Candy Floss flavoured crisps. Mr Tayto has spun the nostalgic candy floss sweetness with a sprinkle of savoury magic and sealed the whole taste adventure into a bag of Tayto crisps. This limited edition flavour is a playful experiment designed to surprise, delight, and spark a smile. It’s unmistakably Tayto. And it’s guaranteed to get the nation talking.
BEANO CAKES FROM BIG DAY CAKES IN SUPERVALU WICKLOW company Big Day Cakes have just launched official Beano Photo Cakes and Cupcakes, ready to be personalised with consumers’ favourite mischief maker’s photo and printed onto delicious cakes in their local SuperValu. Consumers use the Big Day Cakes kiosk in the cake aisle, upload a photo, design their official Beano cake topper, select which cake or cupcakes they want and collect it in-store a couple of days later.
KERRYGOLD LAUNCHES PREMIUM CHEESE RANGE KERRYGOLD, the nation’s most loved butter brand, has announced the exciting launch of its first ever premium cheese range in Ireland, with a popup tasting experience in the heart of Dublin city. Kerrygold invited cheese-lovers to come taste and experience the new gold standard in cheese first-hand at a special pop-up in Powerscourt Townhouse Centre from July 14-16. At the heart of the range is Kerrygold’s distinct rich and creamy taste which can be enjoyed in 15 different varieties, each with distinct flavour profiles and maturity levels. “People already know Kerrygold for quality and taste, and we’re excited to bring that same standard to cheese for Irish shoppers,” noted Lynne Andrews, Marketing Director, Ornua Foods Europe.
KOKA NOODLES TURN UP THE HEAT
INSTANT noodle favourite Koka are heating things up this summer with the launch of their brandnew Extra Spicy Chicken Noodle Pot, bringing a fiery twist to one of their most classic flavours. The new Koka Extra Spicy Chicken Noodle Pot delivers the perfect balance of heat and comfort, combining the classic chicken flavour fans know and love with an added kick of spice. Packed with bold flavour and ready in minutes, it's ideal for lunch breaks, study sessions or whenever hunger strikes. Made using great-tasting ingredients inspired by authentic Singaporean flavours, Koka's range is available in pots, bowls and packs in a variety of delicious flavours, while the Sili range caters for those looking for gluten-free options.
SUSHI CIRCLE NOW AVAILABLE AT CENTRA CENTRA have announced the arrival of Sushi Circle in participating stores. Bringing together fresh grab-and-go sushi rolls and poke bowls, the new range includes flavour-packed options like Chicken Katsu Rolls, Crunchy Salmon Rolls, Spicy Prawn Rolls, Classic Salmon Poke, Chicken & Grilled Pepper Poke, Sweet Chilli Chicken Rice Bowl, and Rainbow Veggie Sushi Selection. “Customers are looking for food options that are fresh, convenient and full of flavour,” said Heather Murphy, Centra Retail Marketing Manager. “Sushi Circle is a brilliant addition to Centra’s food-to-go range, offering customers even more choice and introducing a fresh, convenient sushi option in their local store.”
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