Retailer Lidl Ireland today (Thursday 15 February) announced that it has procured a record €1.1 billion worth of goods from Irish food and drink suppliers in 2023.
A new report says €800 million remained within Lidl Ireland’s business and was sold through its local store network.
Last year, an additional €500 million worth of services were provided to the retailer by local Irish businesses.
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Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland chief executive JP Scally said growing the local supplier network was always a priority for the retailer.
“We are proud to have established relationships with around 1,800 suppliers and business partners from Bantry to Ballyjames Duff and Gorey to Galway,” he said.
Mr Scully pointed out that many of Lidl’s relationships with Irish suppliers and businesses span more than 20 years.
“We are proud to be able to help them grow, succeed and showcase quality Irish products and services on the world stage by facilitating export trade through our global network of Lidl stores across 31 countries. think.
“In 2023, Lidl Ireland procured over €1.6 billion of goods and services from local businesses and over €300 million of goods were exported across the Lidl network around the world.
“This record investment is a major driver of economic growth and this report demonstrates our commitment to helping the entire network of local businesses grow, develop and enjoy success.” said.
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The report highlighted some of Lidl’s suppliers, from a €22 million contract with Longford bakery Panelt Foods to a €1.5 million deal with Abbey Farm Foods in County Laois.
Many of these deals include major exports with Kildare-based prepared meat manufacturer O’Brien Fine Foods, which has secured a €60 million contract with the retailer in late 2023 did.
This makes it easier for the company to export to Lidl stores in mainland Europe, including Bulgaria. Croatia; Denmark; Finland; Greece; Romania and Slovenia.
The report noted Bantry-based Keohane’s Irish fresh and frozen seafood is exported to the UK, Germany, Cyprus, Italy and the US.
Lidl has announced that it has invested €8.5 million in a Kickstart supplier development program with support from Bord Bia.
The program, now in its eighth year, aims to give Irish producers the opportunity to realize their potential by promoting their products, brands and businesses with expert support.
To date, over 150 Irish businesses across the island of Ireland have taken part in the programme.