Supermarket group Lidl sourced a record €1 billion worth of food and beverages from more than 400 Irish producers last year, a new supplier report released today (Wednesday 18 January) shows .
Of the €1 billion worth of food and beverages sourced in Ireland, €682 million was placed on Lidl supermarket shelves across the country, and €318 million was exported, according to Lidl Ireland.
Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland Chief Executive Officer JP Scally praised what he described as a “great supplier” to a retailer representing “the best of Ireland’s food and beverage industry”.
“We are proud to showcase the prowess of their products on the Irish shelf and on the world stage through our Lidl network.
“In 2022, Lidl Ireland has sourced over €1 billion worth of goods from Irish suppliers. This record investment is a major engine of economic growth,” added Scally.
He said the latest supplier report shows how important supplier relationships are not only to the success of the business, but also to the more than 400 growers it supports nationwide. rice field.
“Since 2018 we have been working hard to increase our offering to our customers, expanding our product range by more than 40% and tripling our purchasing team to focus on sourcing as many Irish products as possible. increase.
Lidl’s CEO added:
Lidl Supplier
The retailer highlighted several companies it is currently working with, including Bantry-based Keohane Seafoods, which secured a €20 million contract with Lidl.
The deal also confirms that Keohane’s fresh and frozen Irish seafood will be sold in the UK, Germany, Cyprus, Italy and the US.
Another company given the opportunity to shine on the international stage with Lidl is Tipperary’s Honeyvale Foods, which supplies Irish ham and bacon products to hundreds of stores in Denmark, Greece, Portugal, Slovenia and Poland..
Dublin Meat Company, which won a €15 million contract with retailers, and Donegal juice and smoothie producer Mulrines, who won an €8 million contract, are also important suppliers to retailers across Ireland.
Lidl’s Kickstart Supplier Development Programme, supported by Bord Bia, will also help small and medium-sized Irish food and beverage businesses take a step towards expanding their operations.
Now in its seventh year, Lidl says it has invested over €7 million in its Kickstart program.
According to Bord Bia Chief Executive Officer Jim O’Toole, Lidl has been a key player in sourcing Irish agricultural products for the past 20 years, giving producers access to the domestic market as well as export opportunities. has played its role.
Bord Bia CEO said:
“2022 saw record growth in Irish agro-food sector exports. Strong partnerships with retailers such as Lidl are a key factor in that growth.
“Bord Bia is committed to continuing to work with Lidl as a partner to ensure this support and growth continues year after year.”